Introduction
Traveling from Ireland to Turkey for bariatric surgery is easier than you might think. With good flight connections and straightforward logistics, thousands of Irish patients make this journey each year.
In this guide, I'll cover everything you need to know about traveling from Ireland to Turkey for your surgery.
Flight Options
From Dublin
Dublin Airport offers excellent connections to Turkey:
- Direct to İstanbul:
- Turkish Airlines: Daily flights, 3.5-4 hours
- Connect to İzmir (1 hour domestic flight)
- Via European Hubs:
- Lufthansa via Frankfurt
- KLM via Amsterdam
- Various options with one stop
- Seasonal Direct to İzmir:
- Some charter/seasonal flights operate summer months
From Cork
Cork Airport has fewer direct options:
Flight Costs
- Typical Prices (Return):
- Dublin → İstanbul → İzmir: €150-350
- Cork → İstanbul → İzmir: €180-400
- Tips for Cheaper Flights:
- Book 4-8 weeks ahead
- Travel midweek if possible
- Be flexible on dates
- Sign up for airline alerts
Visa Requirements
E-Visa for Irish Citizens
Irish citizens need an electronic visa (e-visa) for Turkey.
How to Get It: 1. Visit evisa.gov.tr (official site only) 2. Select "Ireland" as nationality 3. Complete application 4. Pay fee (~$50) 5. Receive e-visa by email 6. Print before travelProcessing Time: Usually instant to a few hoursImportant: Use only the official website. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra.What to Pack
Essential Documents
- Valid Irish passport (6+ months validity)
- Printed e-visa
- Medical documents from our team
- Insurance documents
- All contact numbers (printed)
Clothing
- Loose, comfortable clothes
- Slip-on shoes
- Light layers
- Comfortable nightwear
- Extra underwear
Medical
- Current medications (original packaging)
- Prescription list
Electronics
- Phone and charger
- European adapter plug (Ireland to Turkey compatible)
- Power bank
The Journey
Outbound
- At Dublin Airport:
- Arrive 3 hours before flight
- Check in (online beforehand saves time)
- Security and passport control
- Light snack if hungry
- During Flight:
- Stay hydrated
- Walk when possible
- Light meal only
- Arriving in Turkey:
- Passport control (show e-visa)
- Collect luggage
- Our driver meets you at arrivals
Return Flight
- After Surgery:
- Typically 5-7 days post-operation
- We clear you when medically ready
- Flight Tips:
- Book aisle seat
- Walk hourly
- Compression stockings essential
- Small pillow for seatbelt comfort
- Stay hydrated
Practical Information
Currency
- Turkish Lira is local currency
- Euro often accepted
- Cards widely accepted
- ATMs available
Phone
- Roaming works (check with provider)
- WiFi available at hotel/hospital
- WhatsApp for communication with us
Weather
- İzmir Climate:
- Summer: Hot (30-35°C)
- Winter: Mild (8-15°C)
- Spring/Autumn: Pleasant (18-25°C)
What We Organise
- Included in Your Package:
- Airport pickup
- All transfers during stay
- Return airport transfer
- 24/7 WhatsApp support
- You Arrange:
- Flights
- Travel insurance
- E-visa
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the journey? Dublin to İzmir via İstanbul: approximately 5-6 hours total travel time.Is there a direct flight to İzmir? Seasonal direct flights operate some summers. Otherwise, connect via İstanbul.What if my flight is delayed? Contact us immediately. We adjust your schedule as needed.Can I fly alone? Yes, many patients travel alone. We provide full support throughout.Ready to Travel?
Have questions about your journey from Ireland? We're here to help.
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- Email: [Contact Form]
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