medical hubs of Türkiye
İstanbul
İstanbul, homeland of numerous civilizations for centuries which serves as the bridge linking Europe and Asia, is known as the health tourism capital of Türkiye. The city has countless facilities and infrastructure for health tourism including medical tourism, thermal and spa wellness, and tourism for elderly and disabled people. There are 220 hospitals in İstanbul including 141 private, 17 university, 62 public hospitals. There are also 4 modern city hospitals in İstanbul. All private and public hospitals employ foreign language speaking personnel well-informed about health tourism. Besides, historical and cultural heritages and nearby towns like Sapanca and Kartepe attract foreign patients who come to İstanbul for health tourism purposes. Patients who receive a treatment or have surgeries, stay one more week in Türkiye for holiday. The increase in number of tourists in recent years, prove Türkiye’s potential in this sense. Turkish Airlines, a Turkish brand, has direct flights to İstanbul form numerous destinations in the world, which provides advantages for tourists.
Ankara
Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, is in a critical position in terms of private and public hospital investments. Being the capital city, is known as the capital of politics and welcomes countless tourists. The city has a remarkable potential with a strong infrastructure, rich minerals, 55 public hospitals and 33 private hospitals. Thermal springs provide all-year health tourism opportunity for domestic and foreign tourists.
Antalya
Antalya is a city blessed with natural and historical beauties; geographical location, all-year mild climate and accessibility of which offers convenient conditions for accommodation of sick, old and disabled people all the year round. Therefore, the city occupies an important position in health tourism in addition to winter tourism, sports tourism, congress and fair tourism. Especially in recent years, Antalya has come to the forefront with high capacity facilities in terms of bed and service, well-educated doctors and healthcare personnel speaking foreign language, qualified but low-cost service compared to other countries.
Bursa
Bursa, with vast number of high-quality healing water resources, takes place on the top among our cities which play important role in health tourism and other forms of tourism. With a total number of 87 hospitals including 15 public hospitals, it is among pioneering cities in health tourism. Bursa has become a touristic city with thermal springs, natural and historical beauties, and healing waters preferred by tourists all the year round. The city has countless number of water resources in the city center as well as its districts. Most of them are worldwide known thermal springs which were used by emperors during Roman period and by sultans during the Ottoman period. Bursa, famous for enormous number of geothermal resources since ancient times, continues the tradition of thermal bath which reached our day through thermal springs and Ottoman hammams.
Mersin
Mersin is a destination for a modest, affordable, and proper holiday on the southern coast of Türkiye which is a melting pot of civilizations drawing attention with a large number of historical, religious, ancient and cultural assets. The city has a great potential for health tourism both with beaches and qualified patient beds. The city hospital and private hospitals in the city carries out remarkable works for health tourism.
Kayseri
Kayseri is located at the center of Türkiye in terms of transportation. Kayseri has become the homeland of a great number of civilizations throughout history full of historical and natural beauties. The city has a remarkable infrastructure in terms of medicine. Gevher Nesibe Şifahiyesi and Madrassah built in 1206, known as the first medical faculty in history, is in Kayseri. Kayseri, preserving its medicinal genes coming from the past, is an important center of medicine like 800 years before.
Today Kayseri has a city hospital with a capacity of 1607 beds, which is one of the best equipped hospitals in our country, and Health Tourism certified health centers with a capacity of 3748 beds.
There are countless number of thermal spring facilities around Kayseri.
Edirne
Edirne is in an important location for health tourism thanks to its geographical location. The city has 5 border gates establishing highway and railway connections with Europe. Kapıkule and Hamzabeyli border gates are at the Bulgaria border. Kapıkule border gate is the biggest highway and railway gate of Türkiye. Besides, İpsala ve Pazarkule border gates are at the Greece border and have significant role in city’s economy. Edirne has been the capital of the Ottoman Empire for 92 year, thus has important historical and cultural assets.
Samsun
Samsun, a vibrant city on Türkiye's northern coast, is rapidly emerging as a premier health tourism destination. With its state-of-the-art medical facilities, highly skilled healthcare professionals, and a commitment to patient-centered care, Samsun offers a compelling choice for international patients seeking top-quality medical services. Beyond advanced healthcare, the city is also known for its wellness offerings, including natural thermal springs that provide therapeutic benefits for various ailments. Samsun’s healthy gastronomy scene, rich in fresh seafood, organic produce, and traditional Black Sea cuisine, complements its wellness appeal, promoting overall well-being. Visitors can also enjoy serene coastal settings and lush green landscapes, making Samsun an ideal destination for both medical care and holistic healing.
Erzurum
Erzurum, a renowned winter sports hub in Türkiye, is also gaining recognition as a health tourism destination. With its modern medical facilities and expert healthcare professionals, the city offers specialized treatments. Erzurum’s thermal springs, such as Pasinler and Ilıca, are famous for their mineral-rich waters that aid in the treatment of rheumatic diseases and skin conditions. The city’s high-altitude climate and clean air provide additional benefits for respiratory health, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking both medical and natural healing.
Sivas
Sivas stands out with its advanced medical infrastructure and rich thermal resources. The city is home to Balıklı Kaplıca, a unique thermal spa where doctor fish (Garra rufa) naturally exfoliate the skin, offering therapeutic relief for psoriasis and other dermatological conditions. Sivas also provides high-quality rehabilitation treatments, supported by its clean air and tranquil natural surroundings. The region’s traditional cuisine, featuring organic meat and dairy products, further enhances its wellness appeal.
Ordu
Nestled along the Black Sea coast, Ordu is a rising destination for health and wellness tourism. Its state-of-the-art medical centers offer specialized care. Ordu’s pristine environment, oxygen-rich highlands, and lush greenery create a perfect setting for wellness retreats. The region is also known for its organic hazelnuts and honey, which contribute to a healthy diet and overall well-being. The nearby Çambaşı Highland serves as an ideal location for both relaxation and outdoor therapy.
Nevşehir
Famous for Cappadocia’s breathtaking landscapes, Nevşehir combines medical excellence with wellness experiences. The region’s cave hotels and serene surroundings create a peaceful retreat for recovery and relaxation. Nevşehir is also home to geothermal hot springs, such as Kozaklı, known for their therapeutic benefits in treating joint pain and skin diseases. Visitors can complement their healing journey with nutrient-rich dried fruits, and traditional Anatolian cuisine.
Gaziantep
Gaziantep, a UNESCO-recognized culinary capital, is not only famous for its rich gastronomy but also for its growing healthcare sector. The city boasts modern hospitals specializing in various fields. ts local cuisine, rich in antioxidants and healthy ingredients like pistachios and olive oil, contributes to a balanced diet. Additionally, nearby thermal springs, such as Şehitkamil Thermal, offer relaxation and relief for musculoskeletal conditions.
Adana
Adana, a dynamic city in southern Türkiye, is a key medical hub offering high-quality treatments. The region’s mineral-rich thermal waters, such as those in Kurttepe, provide relief for rheumatic and dermatological issues. Adana’s cuisine, featuring a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables and lean meats, supports a healthy lifestyle. The city’s warm climate and scenic riverfront further enhance its appeal as a wellness destination.
Konya
Konya, known for its spiritual heritage and Mevlevi traditions, is also emerging as a center for medical and wellness tourism. The city’s hospitals specialize in various fields, while its serene atmosphere promotes mental and emotional well-being. The Ilgın Thermal Springs are renowned for their therapeutic benefits, particularly in rheumatic and neurological treatments. Konya’s healthy cuisine, including whole-grain flatbreads and fermented dairy products, complements its holistic wellness offerings.
Karabük
Karabük, home to the UNESCO-listed Safranbolu, offers a unique blend of heritage and health tourism. The city has modern medical facilities and is surrounded by oxygen-rich forests, making it ideal for respiratory health and relaxation. Karabük also stands out with its rich biodiversity, endemic plant species, and ancient trees, particularly in the Yenice Forests, a protected natural area. Additionally, the Hadrianopolis Ancient City in Eskipazar adds historical and archaeological significance to the region. The area is also famous for saffron tea, made from the world-renowned Safranbolu saffron, known for its antioxidant properties and mood-enhancing benefits.
Eskişehir
Eskişehir, a vibrant university city, is known for its advanced healthcare services and thermal tourism. The region’s Hamamyolu thermal baths have been used for centuries for their soothing effects on musculoskeletal and skin disorders. Eskişehir’s clean urban design, cycling-friendly streets, and healthy cuisine—featuring locally sourced dairy and grains—make it a top wellness destination.
Afyonkarahisar
Afyonkarahisar is one of Türkiye’s premier thermal tourism destinations, famous for its healing hot springs and luxurious spa resorts. The city’s mineral-rich waters are highly effective in treating rheumatism, dermatological issues, and digestive disorders. Afyon’s mud baths and wellness retreats provide a holistic health experience, while its renowned local cuisine, including probiotic-rich dairy products, supports gut health and overall well-being.
Muğla
Muğla, with its stunning coastline and world-class hospitals, is a sought-after destination for both medical and wellness tourism. The region offers high-quality treatments in aesthetics, dentistry, and rehabilitation. Muğla’s thermal resorts, such as those in Dalyan and Sultaniye, are known for their skin-healing and anti-inflammatory properties. The city’s Mediterranean cuisine, rich in fresh seafood, olive oil, and organic vegetables, contributes to a healthy and rejuvenating experience.
Denizli
Denizli is home to Pamukkale, one of the world’s most famous natural thermal wonders. The region’s thermal waters, rich in calcium and minerals, provide relief for skin diseases, arthritis, and circulation issues. Denizli also has top-tier medical centers specializing in rehabilitation and physical therapy. Visitors can complement their wellness journey with fresh Aegean produce and herbal teas, known for their detoxifying effects.
Sakarya
Sakarya is an emerging wellness destination with its modern medical facilities and natural healing resources. The Taraklı and Akyazı (Kuzuluk) thermal springs are highly regarded for their therapeutic benefits, particularly in musculoskeletal and skin treatments. Surrounded by lush forests and lakes, Sakarya offers a peaceful environment for recovery and relaxation. The city’s organic farming initiatives further enhance its appeal as a health-conscious destination.
Kocaeli
Kocaeli, a key industrial city, is also known for its expanding medical tourism sector. The region boasts specialized hospitals in cardiology, orthopedics, and rehabilitation. Nearby Yalova Thermal Springs provide a rejuvenating retreat, offering healing waters for rheumatic and metabolic conditions. Kocaeli’s proximity to Istanbul makes it a convenient wellness escape, enriched by its clean air and coastal landscapes.
Tekirdağ
Tekirdağ, with its growing healthcare sector, is becoming a preferred destination for wellness seekers. The city’s hospitals provide advanced medical services, while its mild climate and coastal setting promote relaxation and well-being. Tekirdağ’s vineyards produce antioxidant-rich local drinks, which, along with its fresh seafood contribute to a healthy lifestyle.
Kırklareli
Kırklareli is a hidden gem for wellness tourism, offering pristine nature and high-quality healthcare services. Kırklareli’s clean air, organic dairy farms, and traditional herbal remedies make it an ideal destination for holistic health and rejuvenation.
