How do I get to Istanbul?
Istanbul is one of the most connected cities in the world, served by Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side, with direct and one-stop flights from the Gulf, Europe, Africa, Central Asia and beyond. When you share your likely dates, your coordinator can advise which airport is more convenient for the hospital you are attending so you can choose flights accordingly.
We do not sell flights, so you book travel through your preferred airline or agent. Once your tickets are confirmed, send your flight number and arrival time to your coordinator so your transfer and first appointment can be aligned with your landing time.
Will someone meet me at the airport?
For many patients, yes. Airport meet-and-greet and a private transfer are a core part of the international patient service: where this is arranged for you, a representative or driver is ready at the agreed time to take you directly to your hotel or the hospital, so you are not searching for taxis or directions after a long flight.
The exact arrangement is confirmed in advance by your coordinator. Make sure they have your final flight details, and if your plans change in transit — a delay or a missed connection — contact them as soon as you can so the pickup can be adjusted. Keep your coordinator's contact details saved on your phone before you fly.
What happens on my first day?
Your first day is usually an orientation and assessment day rather than a treatment day. After you have settled in, you are welcomed at the International Patient Center, your paperwork and identification are completed, and you meet your specialist for an in-person consultation and any baseline tests needed to confirm the plan made remotely.
Because your case was reviewed before arrival, this visit is about confirming and refining the plan rather than starting from scratch. Your team explains the schedule for the days ahead — which tests, which consultations and, where relevant, the planned date of any procedure — so you always know what tomorrow holds.
Getting around the city
Istanbul is large and spans two continents, so where you stay relative to your hospital matters. Your coordinator can recommend accommodation close to the facility and arrange transfers between your hotel and the hospital for appointments, which removes the stress of navigating an unfamiliar transport system while you are focused on your health.
If you plan to explore on rest days, ask your coordinator about safe, reliable options. They can advise on reputable transport and on areas convenient to where you are staying, so any sightseeing fits comfortably around your medical schedule.