Istanbul Rising: How the World's Most Visited City Became a Global Hub for Medical Travel

In recent years, travel has taken on new meaning. It’s no longer just about escaping the routine—it’s also about investing in long-term wellbeing. And perhaps no city captures this shift better than Istanbul.

With a mix of historical depth and modern infrastructure, Istanbul has become one of the most dynamic destinations for people seeking both cultural enrichment and high-quality medical care.

Istanbul Leads the Way

According to Euromonitor International, Istanbul was the most visited city in the world in 2023, welcoming over 20.2 million international visitors—a number rose to 23 million in 2024. While many travelers come for the city’s iconic landmarks, more and more are combining their visit with medical procedures—a growing trend known as medical travel.

In fact, 1.8 million people traveled to Turkey for medical treatments in 2023, according to the Turkish Statistical Institute. From dental work and eye surgery to cosmetic procedures and hair transplants, Turkey has positioned itself as a trusted destination for effective, professional care.

Why Turkey?

With 1,518 hospitals and a Healthcare Access and Quality (HAQ) Index score of 74.4, Turkey’s healthcare system rivals those in many developed nations. The combination of medical expertise, advanced technology, and international patient support has made it a smart choice for people from across the globe.

Istanbul, in particular, makes it easy to pair treatment with travel. Between appointments, visitors can explore world-class cuisine, take in centuries of architecture, or simply relax in the city's many scenic spots.

A Closer Look: Hair Restoration in Turkey

One of the most popular procedures drawing travelers is hair transplantation, especially using techniques like FUE (Follicular Unit Extraction) and DHI (Direct Hair Implantation). These minimally invasive methods are known for natural-looking results, short recovery times, and minimal scarring.

Clinics offering the best hair transplant in Turkey combine trusted techniques with services that are streamlined for international visitors—airport pickup, hotel bookings, aftercare guidance, and clear communication from start to finish.

A Patient’s Perspective: Matt’s Experience

For many, it’s not just about restoring hair—it’s about regaining confidence. That was the case for Matt, a patient from the U.S. who underwent an FUE procedure involving ~5,000 grafts at Estenove, a clinic offering the best hair transplant in Turkey.

“It feels like it's reversed aging for me. I just feel great when I go out, look in the mirror, and see a full head of hair. It's like a real confidence booster.”— Matt, Former Hair Transplant Patient

Fifteen months after his procedure, Matt's results speak for themselves—not only in appearance but in the way he describes feeling after the experience.

Final Thoughts

The growing popularity of medical travel reflects a shift in how people view their health and time. More travelers are realizing that a trip abroad can mean more than a passport stamp—it can mean investing in yourself.

Istanbul, with its blend of accessibility, medical excellence, and rich cultural offerings, is becoming a go-to destination for those looking to take that step—whether it’s for a procedure like a hair transplant in Turkey, or simply to feel more like themselves again.