Medical Tourism
Travel & Accommodation
From landing at Istanbul Airport to choosing recovery-friendly accommodation near the clinic, here's what to plan for before you travel.
Dr. Havva Duru Ipek wrote and medically reviewed this article · · Credentials and sources
Planning your stay in Istanbul: from landing at Istanbul Airport to choosing recovery-friendly accommodation near the clinic, here's what to plan for before you travel.
Arriving at Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul Airport (IATA: IST) is the main international gateway, roughly 40–60 minutes by car from the clinic in Nişantaşı/Şişli, depending on traffic. Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Anatolian side is a secondary option with a longer transfer time.
Getting to your hotel
Private transfer, pre-arranged with the clinic, is the most comfortable option — especially for post-op arrivals or departures. Licensed airport taxis and ride-hailing apps (BiTaksi) are reliable alternatives.
Where to stay
Hotels and serviced apartments in Nişantaşı/Şişli are recommended for their proximity to the clinic, elevator access, and walkability — all important during the first days of recovery when minimizing movement matters.
Transfer options at a glance
Airport-to-clinic transfer options
| Option | Comfort level | Best for | Approx. cost tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private transfer (clinic-arranged) | Highest | Post-op travel days, first arrival | confirm with clinic |
| Licensed airport taxi | High | Pre-op arrival, flexible timing | confirm with clinic |
| Ride-hailing app (BiTaksi) | Moderate | Short local trips once mobile | confirm with clinic |
| Metro + connections | Basic | Companions/visitors, not recommended immediately post-op | confirm with clinic |
How long should you plan to stay?
Recommended stay length depends on your procedure, since your surgeon needs to confirm you are travel-ready before your return flight, particularly for long-haul trips.
Suggested length of stay by procedure
| Procedure | Minimum recommended nights | Follow-up visit timing | Flight-clearance guidance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhinoplasty | 7–10 nights | Around day 5–7 | Surgeon clearance required before any flight, long-haul or short-haul |
| Deep Plane Facelift | 10–14 nights | Around day 7–10 | Swelling/bruising should be sufficiently resolved before flying |
| Eyelid Surgery | 7–10 nights | Around day 5–7 | Surgeon confirms eye comfort and healing before flying |
| Facial Balance | 7–14 nights (scope-dependent) | Around day 5–10 | Set individually depending on procedures combined |
Choosing where to stay
Accommodation near Nişantaşı/Şişli falls broadly into three tiers. The clinic can share current partner or recommended options in each tier at consultation — the categories below are for orientation, not specific bookings.
Serviced apartment
More space and a kitchenette, useful for longer stays (e.g. facelift recovery) or patients traveling with a companion who wants flexibility around meals.
Boutique hotel
Smaller, personal-service properties within walking distance of the clinic — a popular balance of comfort and convenience for shorter stays.
Premium hotel
Full-service hotels with concierge and spa amenities, for patients who want extra support arranging transfers, dining, and daily needs.
Before-you-fly logistics checklist
2–4 weeks before
Confirm your surgery date, book flights, check passport validity (see Visa Information), and confirm accommodation.
1 week before
Share your flight itinerary with the clinic so airport transfer can be arranged, and confirm any pre-op instructions (medication, fasting, etc.).
Day of arrival
Keep the clinic's contact details accessible, have your accommodation address ready in Turkish for your driver, and rest before your first consultation.
Stay lengths are general guidance only — your surgeon confirms your individual travel-readiness timeline. See also the Istanbul Guide and your country-specific page (e.g. For Patients from the United Kingdom) for flight-specific advice.
Frequently asked questions
How long should I plan to stay in Istanbul?
It depends on your procedure — for example rhinoplasty typically needs 7–10 nights and a deep plane facelift 10–14 nights, with your surgeon confirming your exact travel-readiness before any flight.
Where is the best area to stay near the clinic?
Hotels and serviced apartments in Nişantaşı/Şişli are recommended for their proximity to the clinic, elevator access, and walkability during early recovery.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
A private transfer pre-arranged with the clinic is the most comfortable option, especially for post-op travel; licensed airport taxis and ride-hailing apps such as BiTaksi are reliable alternatives.
What should I do in the week before flying to Istanbul?
Share your flight itinerary with the clinic so an airport transfer can be arranged, and confirm any pre-op instructions such as medication or fasting requirements.
Written and medically reviewed by: Dr. Havva Duru Ipek — Facial Plastic Surgery / Otolaryngology (Ear, Nose & Throat), Istanbul
Last reviewed: · Next review: 2027-09
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The information here is general. What it means for your specific case will become clear after examination and any necessary tests. If you have prior test results or reports, please bring them with you.