Istanbul
Where East meets West
Istanbul is Turkiye's largest city and a global hub for medical tourism. Straddling two continents, it offers world-class clinics alongside breathtaking history — from the Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar. After your treatment, explore the Bosphorus, taste incredible street food, and soak in centuries of culture.
Istanbul is a city that defies simple description. Spanning two continents — Europe and Asia — it is the only major city in the world that straddles such a dramatic geographical divide. With a population of over 15 million people, Istanbul is not only Turkiye's largest city but also its cultural and economic heart. For thousands of years, this city has served as the capital of empires: the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires all called it home. Today, it stands as a vibrant, modern metropolis that seamlessly blends ancient history with contemporary life. The city's skyline is punctuated by the minarets of grand mosques, the domes of Byzantine churches, and the gleaming towers of its modern business districts. For medical tourists, Istanbul represents the gold standard. It is home to the highest concentration of internationally accredited clinics in the country, and its hospitals and specialists attract patients from across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Whether you are coming for a hair transplant, dental treatment, or aesthetic procedure, you will find world-class facilities staffed by highly trained professionals who speak multiple languages and understand the needs of international patients.
Places to explore in Istanbul
Discover the landmarks, attractions, and hidden gems that make Istanbul an unforgettable destination.
Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia is one of the greatest architectural achievements in human history. Originally built as a Christian cathedral in 537 AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, it served as the world's largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it was converted into a mosque, and in 1934, it became a museum under the Turkish Republic. In 2020, it was reconverted to a mosque while remaining open to visitors. The building's massive dome, soaring 55 metres above the floor, was an engineering marvel of its time and remains awe-inspiring today. Inside, you'll find stunning Byzantine mosaics alongside Islamic calligraphy — a visual testament to the city's layered history. The Hagia Sophia sits at the heart of the Sultanahmet district, surrounded by other major landmarks including the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply appreciate breathtaking architecture, the Hagia Sophia is an absolute must-visit during your time in Istanbul.
Grand Bazaar
The Grand Bazaar (Kapali Carsi) is one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. Built in 1461, it spans over 30,000 square metres and contains more than 4,000 shops spread across 61 covered streets. Walking through its labyrinthine corridors is an experience that engages all your senses — the glitter of gold and silver jewellery, the rich colours of handwoven carpets, the scent of Turkish spices and fresh-ground coffee, the sound of merchants calling out to passersby. The bazaar is organised by trade, so you'll find entire sections dedicated to leather goods, ceramics, textiles, antiques, and more. Haggling is expected and is part of the fun — start by offering about half the asking price and work your way to a fair deal. Beyond shopping, the Grand Bazaar is a living piece of history. Its ornate gates, painted ceilings, and fountain courtyards are architectural treasures in their own right. Take your time, get lost in the maze of streets, and stop for a glass of Turkish tea at one of the many small cafes tucked between the shops. The bazaar is open Monday to Saturday, from 9am to 7pm.
Bosphorus Strait
The Bosphorus is the narrow strait that separates Europe from Asia, and it is the very soul of Istanbul. This 31-kilometre waterway connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Marmara and has been one of the world's most strategically important shipping lanes for millennia. A Bosphorus cruise is one of the essential Istanbul experiences. As your boat glides along the water, you'll pass ornate Ottoman waterfront mansions (yalis), imposing fortresses, charming fishing villages, and the magnificent Bosphorus bridges that connect the two continents. The best time for a cruise is late afternoon, when the setting sun paints the city's skyline in shades of gold and amber. Public ferries run regular routes from Eminonu, offering an affordable way to experience the strait. For a more intimate experience, private yacht tours are available, often including dinner on board. The Bosphorus also defines the city's social life — waterfront neighbourhoods like Ortakoy, Bebek, and Arnavutkoy are favourite spots for locals to stroll, dine, and enjoy the views. During your recovery period, a gentle Bosphorus cruise is the perfect low-key activity that offers fresh sea air and unforgettable scenery.
Available treatments
Best time to visit
April–June and September–November for mild weather
Airport
Istanbul Airport (IST) or Sabiha Gokcen (SAW)
Free cancellation before 15 days
Medical tourism in Istanbul
Istanbul has earned its reputation as one of the world's top destinations for medical tourism, and for good reason. The city is home to hundreds of clinics, many of which hold JCI (Joint Commission International) accreditation — the gold standard in healthcare quality. Hair transplant clinics in Istanbul have become particularly famous, drawing tens of thousands of international patients every year. The procedures are performed by experienced surgeons using the latest FUE and DHI techniques, at a fraction of the cost you would pay in Western Europe or North America. Dental clinics in Istanbul offer everything from veneers and crowns to full-mouth reconstructions, all using cutting-edge materials and technology. The aesthetics scene is equally impressive, with clinics offering Botox, fillers, rhinoplasty, facelifts, and body contouring procedures. What sets Istanbul apart is the combination of quality and value. You can receive treatment at a state-of-the-art facility, recover at a comfortable hotel, and still spend less than you would for the procedure alone back home. Many clinics offer all-inclusive packages that cover airport transfers, hotel accommodation, and aftercare, making the entire experience seamless and stress-free.
Culture & history
Few cities on Earth can match Istanbul's cultural richness. Walking through its streets is like stepping through layers of history — from the ancient Roman Hippodrome to the magnificent Ottoman palaces that line the Bosphorus. The city's cultural life is vibrant and diverse, with world-class museums, art galleries, theatres, and music venues. The Istanbul Modern art museum showcases contemporary Turkish and international art, while the Archaeological Museums house treasures spanning thousands of years. The city's neighbourhoods each have their own distinct character: Beyoglu is the bohemian heart of the city, with its bustling Istiklal Avenue, historic Pera district, and vibrant nightlife. Kadikoy, on the Asian side, offers a more laid-back atmosphere with its colourful market streets, waterfront cafes, and indie shops. Balat, with its pastel-coloured houses and trendy cafes nestled among historic synagogues and churches, has become one of the most photographed neighbourhoods in the world. Whether you're interested in history, art, music, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of a truly global city, Istanbul delivers an experience that will stay with you long after you return home.
Food & cuisine
Istanbul's food scene is nothing short of extraordinary. Turkish cuisine is one of the world's great culinary traditions, and Istanbul is where it reaches its fullest expression. Start your day with a traditional Turkish breakfast — a lavish spread of cheeses, olives, tomatoes, cucumbers, honey, clotted cream (kaymak), eggs, and fresh-baked bread that can easily last two hours. For lunch, dive into the world of kebabs: from the classic Adana kebab to the melt-in-your-mouth iskender. Street food is an art form here — try a balik ekmek (fish sandwich) by the Galata Bridge, a simit (sesame-crusted bread ring) from a street vendor, or a lahmacun (Turkish flatbread with spiced meat). In the evening, the city's fine dining scene rivals any European capital, with restaurants like Mikla and Neolokal offering modern interpretations of Turkish cuisine with spectacular views. Don't miss the city's legendary desserts: baklava, kunefe (warm cheese pastry soaked in syrup), and Turkish delight. And of course, Turkish tea and coffee are an essential part of daily life — sit in a traditional tea garden overlooking the Bosphorus and experience the ritual that has brought people together in this city for centuries.
Where to stay
Istanbul offers accommodation for every taste and budget, from opulent Ottoman-era palaces to stylish boutique hotels and modern international chains. For a truly special experience, consider staying at one of the historic hotels in Sultanahmet, where you can wake up to views of the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque. The Beyoglu and Galata districts offer trendy boutique hotels with rooftop terraces and Bosphorus views. If you prefer the Asian side, Kadikoy and Moda have charming guesthouses and modern hotels with a more local, residential feel. Many medical tourism clinics have partnerships with nearby hotels, offering special rates for patients. Five-star options include the Four Seasons at Sultanahmet (a converted Ottoman prison), the Ciragan Palace Kempinski (a former Ottoman palace on the Bosphorus), and the Raffles Istanbul. For those seeking a more affordable but still comfortable stay, the Sisli and Besiktas neighbourhoods offer excellent mid-range hotels close to major clinics.
Getting around
Istanbul has an extensive and modern public transport network that makes getting around the city surprisingly easy for its size. The metro system connects both the European and Asian sides of the city, with the Marmaray line running under the Bosphorus. Trams run through the historic peninsula, and ferries connect the two sides of the city across the Bosphorus — arguably the most scenic commute in the world. The Istanbulkart, a rechargeable transit card, works on all public transport and can be purchased at any station. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (like BiTaksi) are also readily available and affordable. Many clinics provide their own transfer services, picking you up from your hotel and taking you directly to the clinic and back. If you arrive at Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist bus service or the metro will get you to the city centre in about 45 minutes. From Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, the Havabus shuttle connects to major transport hubs.
Recovery in Istanbul
Istanbul is an ideal city for post-treatment recovery. The combination of comfortable accommodation, excellent food, gentle activities, and cultural richness means you'll never feel bored or isolated during your healing period. Many patients find that having an exciting city to explore actually makes the recovery period fly by. For the first few days after your procedure, you can relax at your hotel, enjoy room service or nearby restaurants, and take gentle walks along the Bosphorus waterfront. As you feel better, you can gradually explore more — visit a museum, browse a bazaar, or take a ferry ride across the strait. The city's many parks and gardens — from Gulhane Park in Sultanahmet to Yildiz Park in Besiktas — offer peaceful green spaces for quiet walks. Istanbul's hammams (Turkish baths) are another wonderful option for relaxation, though you should consult your doctor about timing after your procedure. The city's medical infrastructure also means that follow-up care is readily available, with clinics offering post-procedure check-ups and support throughout your stay.
Day Trips from Istanbul
If your recovery allows and you have extra time, Istanbul's location makes it an excellent base for day trips. The Princes' Islands, a group of nine islands in the Sea of Marmara, are just a short ferry ride away and offer a car-free escape with Victorian-era wooden houses, pine forests, and horse-drawn carriages. Buyukada, the largest island, is the most popular and has charming restaurants, swimming spots, and panoramic hilltop views. Another popular day trip is to Edirne, the former Ottoman capital, which is home to the Selimiye Mosque — considered the masterpiece of the great architect Sinan. The ancient city of Troy is about a five-hour drive but can be reached on organised day tours. For nature lovers, the Belgrade Forest on the northern outskirts of Istanbul offers hiking trails through ancient woodland. And if you're interested in Ottoman history, the town of Bursa — the first Ottoman capital — is accessible by a combination of ferry and bus, offering magnificent mosques, thermal baths, and the famous Iskender kebab.
Istanbul at a glance
Travel tip
Stay in Sisli or Besiktas for easy access to clinics and the waterfront. The city's efficient metro and tram make getting around a breeze.
Ready to visit Istanbul?
Book your treatment in Istanbul today. Hotel and transfers included. Free cancellation before 15 days.
View packages