Medical Tourism in Istanbul: A Destination for Healing and Beauty
10 Aug 2025

Istanbul is one of the world's leading destinations for medical tourism , combining high-quality medical expertise, affordable prices, and modern infrastructure. This sector attracts thousands of visitors annually from around the world, particularly from Arab countries, seeking treatment and beauty in an environment that blends modernity with ancient traditions.
Why Istanbul? And why Başakşehir and Sultanahmet in particular?
Istanbul, Turkey—specifically, the districts of Basaksehir and Sultanahmet— offer an ideal environment for medical tourism. Basaksehir is one of the city's newest medical districts, boasting advanced hospitals and modern infrastructure, while Sultanahmet offers a wonderful combination of peace of mind, historical beauty, and proximity to hotels and services.
- Basaksehir: Home to the massive medical city, Basaksehir Medical City, one of the largest hospitals in Europe, offering services in all specialties.
- Sultanahmet: A prime tourist area, ideal for post-treatment relaxation. It's close to beauty centers and private clinics, and offers a wide range of upscale hotels and restaurants.
What is medical tourism and why Istanbul?
Medical tourism refers to the travel of people to other countries to receive medical, surgical, or cosmetic treatment. Istanbul has emerged as a preferred destination for this type of tourism due to the following:
- Provides internationally accredited hospitals and medical centers.
- The presence of specialized doctors with international experience.
- Treatment costs are much lower than in Europe and America.
- Easy access to medical areas such as Basaksehir and Sultanahmet.
- The possibility of combining treatment and recreation in a charming tourist city.
The most popular types of treatments available in Istanbul
1. Hair transplantation
Istanbul, and particularly the clinics located in Basaksehir, are world leaders in hair transplantation, utilizing the latest technologies at competitive prices, along with comprehensive translation services for international visitors.
2. Plastic surgeries
These procedures are performed at world-renowned centers, and many cosmetic clinics are located in Sultanahmet, allowing medical tourists to stay close to tourist attractions during their recovery period.
3. Ophthalmology
Centers like the one in Basaksehir offer vision correction, lens implants, and advanced eye surgeries using modern techniques.
4. Dental treatments
Sultanahmet is home to many advanced cosmetic dental clinics, making it ideal for visitors seeking relaxation, treatment, and tourism all in one.
5. Infertility treatment and IVF
Basaksehir is home to several specialized fertility and IVF centers, offering comprehensive care and advanced services.
The best hospitals and centers in Basaksehir and Sultanahmet
- Başakşehir Medical City: It has more than 2,000 beds, wards for international tourists, and multilingual interpreters.
- Memorial Bahçelievler Center: Minutes away from Başakşehir, it offers advanced services in general and plastic surgery.
- Sultanahmet Estetik Clinics: Specializing in cosmetic and hair transplantation, located in the heart of the old city.
Hotels and suitable areas for accommodation
In Basaksehir
- 4 and 5 star hotels near the medical city.
- A calm, safe and ideal environment for recovery.
- Transportation services to and from clinics and airports.
In Sultan Ahmed
- Possibility of accommodation near tourist sites and traditional markets.
- Boutique hotels with a traditional Ottoman style.
- Perfect post-treatment relaxation, with views of Sultan Ahmed Mosque or Hagia Sophia.
Important tips for medical tourism in Istanbul
- Choose an accredited clinic in Basaksehir or Sultanahmet depending on the type of treatment.
- Ask about translation and transportation services included in the treatment package.
- It is preferable to stay in the same area as the clinic to minimize travel.
- Combine treatment and tourism by choosing an attractive location for accommodation.
conclusion
Combining high-quality medical services with psychological and touristic comfort, the Basaksehir and Sultanahmet districts of Istanbul are among the best options for medical tourism in Turkey. Whether you're looking for a hair transplant, cosmetic surgery, or comprehensive treatment, you'll find everything you need in an ideal, safe environment at affordable prices.