Quick answer: Pharmacies in Istanbul are called eczane. Regular pharmacies are usually open during daytime, while nöbetçi eczane means the duty pharmacy open at night, on weekends and during public holidays. If you need medicine urgently, search for “nöbetçi eczane near me” or ask your hotel to call the nearest duty pharmacy before you go. For tourists, the safest option is to use a nearby pharmacy during regular hours, or a listed duty pharmacy at night. If your symptoms are serious, do not wait for a pharmacy visit; call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Last checked: June 2026
We hope your time in Istanbul will be full of joy and good health. But sometimes a headache, upset stomach, or small injury can happen. Don’t worry — Istanbul has modern and reliable healthcare.
This quick guide shows you where to go for small problems, what to do in bigger situations, and how to stay safe during your trip.
What is a pharmacy called in Turkey?
In Turkish, a pharmacy is called eczane. You will see this word on red pharmacy signs across Istanbul. Pharmacists can usually help with common travel issues such as cold medicine, pain relief, stomach problems, allergy medication and basic first-aid products.
Pharmacy Near Me in Istanbul: How to Find the Closest Open Pharmacy
If you search “pharmacy near me” in Istanbul, check whether the pharmacy is currently open before you go. Regular pharmacies usually work during daytime hours, while night and weekend service is provided by rotating duty pharmacies called nöbetçi eczane.
The easiest way for tourists is to search for “nöbetçi eczane near me” or ask the hotel reception to call the closest open pharmacy. This is especially important at night, on Sundays and during public holidays.
How to find a 24/7 night pharmacy in Istanbul
Turkey uses a rotating duty-pharmacy system called nöbetçi eczane. This means not every pharmacy is open all night; instead, selected pharmacies serve each district after regular hours. Search for nöbetçi eczane + your district or ask your hotel reception to call and confirm the closest open pharmacy before you leave.
Can tourists buy medicine without a prescription?
Many basic medicines can be purchased directly from a pharmacy, but some medicines require a prescription. Antibiotics, controlled medicines and stronger treatments may not be sold without a doctor’s prescription. Bring the original packaging or prescription if you already use medication.
Useful Turkish words at the pharmacy
Add a small list near this section: eczane = pharmacy, nöbetçi eczane = duty/night pharmacy, ağrı kesici = painkiller, alerji = allergy, reçete = prescription, ateş = fever, mide = stomach.
When to call emergency help instead
If you have chest pain, breathing problems, a serious allergic reaction, heavy bleeding, fainting or severe symptoms, do not rely on a pharmacy. Call emergency services or go to a hospital emergency department immediately.
Your First Stop for Minor Issues: The Pharmacy (Eczane)
For simple problems like a cold, allergies, or a small cut, your best option is a local pharmacy (Eczane).
How to find them: Look for a big red “E” sign and the word ECZANE.
What they offer: Pharmacists in Turkey are very well-trained and can recommend effective medicine. Many drugs that need a prescription in other countries are available over-the-counter here.
Opening hours: Usually 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday.
At night or on Sundays: There is always one 24/7 pharmacy (Nöbetçi Eczane) in each neighborhood. Closed pharmacies will display the address of the on-duty one.
For Bigger Issues: Choosing the Right Hospital
If your condition is more serious than a simple cold, you may need to see a doctor or visit a hospital. As a tourist, you have two main options—and it’s very important to know the difference.
🏨 Private Hospitals (Our Strong Recommendation)
Istanbul is a major hub for medical tourism, and its private hospitals are world-class.
Why choose them?
International patient departments to guide you.
English-speaking doctors and staff are easy to find.
Modern, clean, and efficient facilities.
Major hospital groups to look for:
Acıbadem
Memorial
Koç University Hospital
Medical Park
🏥 Public Hospitals
Public hospitals in Istanbul provide good care, but:
They can be very crowded.
You will almost certainly face a language barrier.
👉 For a smoother and stress-free experience, we recommend private hospitals for tourists.
💡 Travel Tip
✨ The Golden Rule: Get Travel Insurance
This is not a suggestion—it is essential. Treatment in a good private hospital can be expensive. Before you travel, make sure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies. Always keep your policy number and the 24/7 emergency assistance phone number with you.
🚨 In a True Emergency: What to Do
For any serious, life-threatening situation (such as a severe accident, chest pain, or difficulty breathing), follow these steps:
Knowing your options is the best way to travel with confidence. Whether it’s a quick visit to a local eczane (pharmacy) or a trip to a modern hospital, rest assured—you’ll be in good hands in Istanbul.
Be prepared, stay safe, and enjoy your trip!
Click to read our full guide of Emergecy Numbers
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Yes, absolutely. In any of the major private hospitals, you will have no problem finding doctors and staff who speak fluent English.
A foreign prescription is not legally valid in Turkey. However, many medications that are prescription-only elsewhere can be bought over-the-counter here. Simply show the pharmacist your prescription or the medicine’s name; they will tell you if you need to see a local doctor first.
Compared to the US or Western Europe, private medical care in Istanbul is more affordable. However, it can still be a significant expense—which is why having good travel insurance is so important.