Not sure where to stay in Istanbul for your gastric sleeve surgery? This guide helps NZ & AU patients choose the ...
Not sure where to stay in Istanbul for your gastric sleeve surgery? This guide helps NZ & AU patients choose the safest and most comfortable neighbourhoods, plus recovery-friendly tips and gentle sightseeing ideas.
Welcome to Istanbul and to a New Chapter
If you’re travelling to Istanbul for gastric sleeve surgery, it’s completely normal to feel excited and nervous at the same time. For many of our New Zealand and Australian patients, this trip is not only about surgery — it’s a meaningful step towards feeling healthier, lighter, and more confident in everyday life.
Istanbul is a beautiful and unforgettable city. It’s full of history, colour, and energy — but it can also feel intense and crowded, especially when you’re travelling for a medical procedure. That’s why choosing where to stay is one of the most important decisions you’ll make before you arrive.
And here’s something we tell all our patients:
The best hotel for your recovery isn’t always the most expensive one, it’s the one in the right area.
This guide isn’t a list of hotel names. Instead, it helps you choose the best neighbourhood for your stay, depending on what matters most to you:
✅ being close to the hospital
✅ feeling safe and comfortable
✅ having easy access to taxis, pharmacies and supermarkets
✅ getting enough rest
✅ enjoying a gentle Istanbul experience (without overdoing it)
Choosing the Right Area Matters More Than Choosing a Hotel Name
Many patients message us with hotel links and ask:
“Is this hotel safe?”
Or: “Do you recommend this one?”
The truth is: hotel quality can change quickly, and photos online don’t always reflect how comfortable a stay will actually feel — especially during recovery.
That’s why we recommend this approach:
- Choose the right neighbourhood first.
- Use a simple checklist (cleanliness, elevator, quiet rooms).
- Shortlist 2–3 hotels and send them to us — we’ll help you choose the best option.
Best Areas to Stay in Istanbul (Neighbourhood Guide)
1) Best for Recovery, Comfort & Hospital Access: Şişli / Fulya / Osmanbey
If your priority is a smooth recovery and easy hospital access, this area is our top recommendation.
It’s modern, well-connected, and convenient — especially when you want to avoid long taxi rides after surgery. It also offers everything you need nearby: pharmacies, supermarkets, cafés and quiet streets.
Why this area works so well for recovery:
- Short travel time to the hospital
- Less fatigue after surgery
- Safer and calmer environment
- Easy taxi access, day and night
- Many comfortable hotels and serviced apartments
Best for: recovery-first stays, minimal stress, quick access.
2) Best for a Premium Experience (Calm & Stylish): Nişantaşı / Maçka / Teşvikiye
If you want a more upscale Istanbul experience, Nişantaşı is one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods to stay in.
It feels premium, calm, walkable, and safe. Many patients love it because it has a very “well-kept” atmosphere — especially if you enjoy a gentle morning walk, cafés, and quieter streets.
Good to know:
- It’s usually more expensive than Şişli
- Some boutique hotels may have smaller rooms
- Still close to the hospital with a short taxi ride
Best for: those who want comfort + a premium Istanbul feel.
3) Best for Being Central (With a City Experience): Karaköy / Galata / Taksim
If you want to stay central, feel the energy of Istanbul, and explore iconic streets, this area is a great choice.
Karaköy and Galata are full of charm — cafés, small streets, rooftop views and local life. Taksim is a major hub and connects you to many parts of Istanbul easily.
Important note:
Hotel selection matters more here. Some streets can be busy, noisy, or crowded — especially late at night. If you choose this area, pick a hotel with strong cleanliness reviews and a quiet room option.
Best for: patients who want to explore Istanbul before surgery or during gentle recovery days.
4) Best for History & Landmarks: Sultanahmet / Sirkeci / Grand Bazaar Area
If you’re coming to Istanbul for the first time and want to stay near the famous landmarks, Sultanahmet and Sirkeci are unforgettable.
You’ll be close to places like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar — the heart of historical Istanbul.
But there’s one thing to keep in mind:
This area is beautiful, but it’s also very touristy and busy — which can feel tiring after surgery. Many patients choose it for a short pre-op stay, then move closer to the hospital afterwards.
Best for: history lovers, short sightseeing stays.
5) Budget-Friendly (With Smart Planning): Eminönü
Eminönü is often a more budget-friendly option while still being central and close to sightseeing routes.
However, hotel standards can vary a lot — so if you choose Eminönü, we recommend being extra careful with cleanliness reviews, elevator access, and overall comfort.
Best for: budget-conscious travellers who still want a central base.
A Note on Budget-Friendly Areas
You may also find hotel options in areas like Laleli or Aksaray, which can sometimes be more budget-friendly. These neighbourhoods may suit some travellers — especially if budget is a priority.
For post-op comfort, many patients prefer areas that feel calmer and more relaxed, with easier hospital access. If you do consider these areas, we recommend focusing on hotel cleanliness, recent reviews, and easy taxi access.
A Simple Hotel Checklist (What Matters for Recovery)
No matter where you stay, here are the most important things to look for when booking a hotel for your surgery journey:
✅ Elevator (very important!)
✅ High cleanliness rating & recent reviews
✅ Quiet room option
✅ 24/7 reception
✅ Easy taxi pick-up point
✅ Nearby pharmacy & supermarket
✅ Comfortable bed + modern bathroom
✅ Room service or food options nearby
Tip: If possible, choose a hotel with a review score of 8.5+ and many recent comments.
Can You Explore Istanbul?
Yes — With a Gentle Plan
Many patients ask:
“Will I be able to see Istanbul?”
And our answer is:
Yes, absolutely — just at a slower pace.
This is not the time for long museum lines, heavy walking, or full-day shopping trips. But Istanbul has many beautiful experiences that feel calm and easy.
Before Surgery (If You Have Energy)
Keep it light:
- Karaköy → Galata walk (short and scenic)
- Ortaköy by the Bosphorus (quick visit)
- Üsküdar seaside sunset (calm and beautiful)
- Spice Bazaar (short & colourful)
After Surgery (Low-Effort, High Comfort)
Choose experiences that allow rest:
- Bosphorus cruise (minimal walking, best views)
- Maçka Park (gentle walk + fresh air)
- Bebek seaside (sit and breathe)
- A calm café moment (sometimes that’s the best plan)
Recovery tip: avoid the Grand Bazaar and crowded areas in the first few days — you can always visit later.
Curated Experiences (Optional Tours)
If you’d like to enjoy Istanbul without the stress of planning, we offer a few curated experiences designed for comfort and ease.
These are especially popular among NZ & AU patients because they allow you to enjoy Istanbul gently — without worrying about transport or timing.
✅ Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show
✅ Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Grand Bazaar Tour
✅ Istanbul Highlights Tour
👉 Explore our Istanbul tour options here (link)
Beyond Istanbul: Gallipoli & Cappadocia
Some of our NZ & AU patients also choose to add a short trip outside Istanbul — especially:
✅ Gallipoli (a meaningful historical visit for many Australians and New Zealanders)
✅ Cappadocia (a beautiful 1–2 night getaway — often with a hot air balloon option)
We offer guided options for both, so you can enjoy the experience safely and comfortably.
👉 Explore Gallipoli and Cappadocia tour options here (link)
Join Our NZ/AU Supporter Community
Many of our patients say the biggest comfort is speaking with others who’ve already been through the same journey.
You can ask real questions, read experiences, and feel supported before you travel.
✅ Join our Facebook Supporter Group here:
It is full of real experiences, tips, meal ideas, and recovery stories.
👉 Facebook Bariatric Support Group (full of NZ patients, real questions & tips)
Final Tip: If You’re Unsure — We Can Help
If you’re unsure where to stay, you don’t have to decide alone.
Send us your shortlisted hotel options (2–3 links are enough), tell us your priorities and we’ll guide you towards the safest and most comfortable choice for your recovery.
Because this isn’t just a trip to Istanbul.
It’s a new beginning — and you deserve to feel supported from the moment you arrive.
Want personalised help checking your eligibility?
