Choose your pass

Covid PCR Test in Istanbul

If you are in Istanbul and want to visit the city to the fullest, you may have to go through a PCR test. However, booking a PCR test in Istanbul can be challenging if you are a foreigner to the city. This is why Istanbul Tourist Pass offers an optional PCR test service in Istanbul to make your trip as smooth and fun as possible.

Istanbul.com Creator Community
Istanbul.com Creator Community
September 11, 2021 10 min
Covid PCR Test in Istanbul


When you purchase your Istanbul Tourist Pass, you will gain access to an on-demand PCR test service for a cheaper and more convenient way. Our partners provide secure and reliable COVID tests in Istanbul and they will assist you every step of the way.


What is a PCR Test?


Since the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus in 2019, PCR tests have been the norm around the world for flight attendants and international travelers.. PCR tests are conducted for those who worry that they may be carrying the Covid-19 virus. The tests are fast, reliable, and secure and your results get available within 24 hours at the latest thanks to the latest technologies.  


If you have the below symptoms, you should get a Covid test in Istanbul to make sure you do not infect anyone else. Some of the most common symptoms of Covid-19 are fever, dry cough, tiredness, aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhea, headache, loss of taste or smell, a rash on the skin, or discoloration of fingers or toes. Some of the serious symptoms include difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, loss of speech or movement. 


The PCR test is a simple and fast procedure without any pain. The testing is done via a stick that is inserted carefully into your nose and mouth to collect mucus samples. These samples are later analyzed at the lab to check if you are infected with the virus. If you get a negative test result, good news is you are free of the virus!


Why Should I Get a PCR Test in Istanbul?


There are simply two reasons why one should get a COVID PCR test in Istanbul. First of all, if you are not vaccinated, you will be asked to provide a negative PCR test result before entering Turkey and before leaving Turkey. That is a strict requirement of airline companies as well as the National Turkish Ministry of Health. Those who fail to provide a negative test result will not be boarded to plane and will not be admitted to the country. Moreover, you will have to show your negative PCR test result at the airport before leaving Turkey. If you are not vaccinated, most airline companies will refuse to board you or demand you to bring a negative PCR test result 24 hours before your flight. 


 


The second reason why you should get tested is to make your trip easygoing and smooth. Once you are admitted from the border of Turkey, it is not obligatory to get tested during your Istanbul visit. However, it has many benefits. Istanbul has been recovering from COVID during the last few months, and vaccines are getting more prominent. Thus, some restaurants, cafes, and even museums can ask for proof of vaccination or negative PCR tests when you are visiting. In order to be safe and to be able to experience the city to the fullest, you should get a Coronavirus test in Istanbul. 


PCR Test with Istanbul Tourist Pass


With the optional add-on PCR test provided by Istanbul Tourist Pass, you don't have to wait in the laboratory line. You don’t even have to go to the laboratory at all!


To book a PCR test with us, simply use the Istanbul Tourist Pass app. Tap on the “Book a PCR Test” button, fill the form and wait for the confirmation message. You will get the confirmation within minutes. Our partners will come to your hotel or the venue you are staying at to collect your mucus samples.  


Filling the form is easy and fast. All the information you need to enter is below: 


Date & Hour: Choose the exact date and hour you want your test to be done. 


Hotel/Address: Enter the address at which you are residing.


Room Number: Enter your room number at the hotel at which you are staying.


Number of People: Choose the number of people that are going to get tested.


Personal Phone/Email: Add your personal contact details for convenient communication.

Test Type: Choose if you want your test to be standard (results within 24 hours) or VIP (results within 5 hours)


How does the PCR Test work? 


You can easily book your PCR test within the Istanbul Tourist Pass application on your mobile device. Book your test online, and you will get an immediate confirmation. Any information you need will be on the app for you to reach anytime, anywhere.


After the confirmation, our trusted partners will come to your address to get your samples on the date and time specified. The samples will be delivered to the lab and you will be able to get your results on your mobile phone in 24 hours.


How much does the PCR Test cost?


There are two PCR testing services offered by Istanbul Tourist Pass. If you have enough time and you are not in a rush, you can pick the standard testing option which costs 10 EUR with Istanbul Tourist Pass. The regular price is 35 EUR but Istanbul Tourist Pass provides you a discount of 25 EUR.


The second option is the VIP Fast Track. If you choose this option, you will get your results in 5 hours. The regular price is 50 EUR however with Istanbul Tourist Pass it costs only 30 EUR. The VIP testing accepts samples only until 5 pm.


When Do PCR Test Results Come In?


For standard testing, if you get tested between


08:00 – 12:00/13:00 your results will come in at 21:00 – 22:00


13:00 – 17:00/18:00 your results will come in at 01:00 – 02:00


18:00 – 23:00 your results will come in next day at 09:00/10:00


Your test results will be digital and sent to you via Whatsapp or email in PDF format. Thus, you will not have to contact anyone to get them.


Can I Get Tested in My Hotel Room? 


Yes. When you book your test through Istanbul Tourist Pass, you can choose the option of getting tested wherever you stay. This is one of the benefits of Istanbul Tourist Pass.


Why Get Tested by Our Partner Clinic? 


There are many reasons why you should get your PCR test with our partner clinic during your Istanbul visit. Some of them are as follows:


Ease of Procedure


The biggest benefit to get tested by our partner clinic is the ease of procedure. Wherever you are and whenever you would like to be tested, our staff will be there to assist you. You do not need to look for a clinic, nor have to deal with non-English speaking staff to book your test. With Istanbul Tourist Pass, the process of COVID test is so easy, all you need to do is to download our app, fill a short form and our professional staff will be right at your location to pick up your PCR test samples at your desired schedule.


Trustworthy Staff 


Our partners have been in the business for more than 10 years. You will be visited and assisted by English-speaking staff and healthcare workers who work in the fastest and most secure manner possible. Your results will be available less than 24 hours later after you get tested. Your test will be run via a modern lab that is certified by the Turkish Ministry of Health. 


Fast Track Service


With VIP testing service, you will have a chance to get your results within 5 hours. This is especially recommended to those who have an international flight the same day.


Who Should Have a PCR Test in Istanbul? 


Anyone living or visiting Istanbul can have a PCR test. However, we recommend travelers get tested because some restaurants and attractions may be hesitant to let you in if you are not vaccinated and if you do not have negative results. To get the most out of your trip, It is advised to get tested right after you check in to your hotel. This way, you can get your results the same day and start planning your itinerary.


It is absolutely necessary to provide a negative PCR test when you are leaving the country and you do not hold a vaccine card. If you haven’t been vaccinated, airlines ask you for proof of a negative PCR test.  This is a strict requirement and you will be denied boarding if you fail to provide a negative PCR test 24 hours before your flight.


When Should I Get Tested If I Will Attend An International Flight? 


If you are going to go back to your home country or visit another country after Turkey, it is best to get tested 24 hours before your flight, since results must come in before you get on board. You are expected to show your results either through your mobile phone or on paper before your flight. With Istanbul Tourist Pass's partner labs, you will get your digital results within the same day and you will not have any trouble at the airport. Results are valid at airports of more than 190 countries.


What Should I Do If My Test Results Are Positive?


If you are diagnosed with the virus, you should stay in quarantine. You cannot get a PCR test for the next 10 days and you cannot fly internationally. You should get in contact with your doctor and go to a nearby hospital immediately. At the hospital, you will be asked to fill a form regarding your Covid situation, travel history, and symptoms. You can then go back to your hotel and start your quarantine process. Make sure to alert the hotel staff of your situation so that they can make sure to take all cautions and support you during this difficult time. 


Having a PCR test in Istanbul makes your trip easier, safer, and more fun. It unlocks the doors of many attractions and touristic venues that may potentially reject entry due to the pandemic. With Istanbul Tourist Pass you can get your test done wherever you are with the most affordable prices and fastest results.


Do you have any other questions regarding the Covid PCR test in Istanbul? Contact us at contact@istanbul.com and our expert staff will answer your questions right away. Safe travels in Istanbul!

Best Sights in One Day

Istanbul FAST Pass®

Visit 2 landmarks & 3 authentic experiences including Hagia Sofia or Topkapi Palace and Blue Mosque with Bosphorus Cruise.

1 Pass Option expand_more
2 Travelers expand_more
Adult €49 / person
1
Child (5-12) €44 / person
0
3 Review expand_more
With Hagia Sophia (Adult) x 1 €49.00
eco Instant Access Fee €10.00
Order Total €59.00
Istanbul FAST Pass®
With Hagia Sophia · 1 Adult
€59.00

Istanbul Must-Sees

Istanbul DISCOVER Pass®

Visit 3 landmarks & 100+ top attractions including Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, Blue Mosque.

1 Pass Duration expand_more
2 Travelers expand_more
Adult €149 / person
1
Child (5-12) €139 / person
0
3 Review expand_more
3 Days (Adult) x 1 €149.00
eco Instant Access Fee €10.00
Order Total €159.00
Istanbul DISCOVER Pass®
3 Days · 1 Adult
€159.00

Ultimate Istanbul Experience

Istanbul PRIME Pass®

Visit ALL 7 landmarks, 120+ top attractions & premium experiences including Luxury Bosphorus Sunset, Breakfast & Dinner Cruises and deluxe Hammam.

1 Pass Duration expand_more
2 Travelers expand_more
Adult €259 / person
1
Child (5-12) €249 / person
0
3 Review expand_more
5 Days (Adult) x 1 €259.00
eco Instant Access Fee €10.00
Order Total €269.00
Istanbul PRIME Pass®
5 Days · 1 Adult
€269.00

Find more Istanbul inspiration

24 Hours with Istanbul Tourist Pass: Your Perfect Itinerary
calendar_today May 27, 2025 5 min

24 Hours with Istanbul Tourist Pass: Your Perfect Itinerary

Only have 24 hours in Istanbul? Maximize every moment with this fast-paced itinerary that takes you from iconic landmarks to sunset cruises, ancient bazaars, and rooftop views—all in one unforgettable day. Perfect for travelers on a tight schedule who want to see Istanbul’s best highlights without missing a beat.

Istanbul Do’s and Don’ts: 10 Unspoken Guidelines Every Istanbulite Knows
calendar_today Dec 18, 2023 8 min

Istanbul Do’s and Don’ts: 10 Unspoken Guidelines Every Istanbulite Knows

Istanbul, a city where the past and present coalesce in a harmonious dance, beckons travelers with its vibrant markets, historic landmarks, and warm hospitality. As you embark on your journey through this enchanting metropolis, it's essential to understand the unspoken guidelines that weave through the fabric of Istanbulite culture. Join us on a cultural exploration […]

A Culinary Time Machine: 100-Year-Old Restaurants Still Serving Istanbul Today
calendar_today Jun 12, 2025 21 min

A Culinary Time Machine: 100-Year-Old Restaurants Still Serving Istanbul Today

Istanbul’s dining scene is ever-changing, yet a handful of venerable eateries stand as living time capsules. These are places where recipes endure for a century, where the decor whispers of sultans and paschas, and where each bite carries the flavors of history.  
 
 In this blog-style journey, we visit some of Istanbul’s oldest still-operating […]

Summer & Sea Holiday in Istanbul: Kilyos
calendar_today Mar 29, 2023 9 min

Summer & Sea Holiday in Istanbul: Kilyos

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city full of things to do, see, and experience. Generally, Istanbul is famous for its historical buildings, beautiful mosques, ancient churches, and amazing Bosphorus. But Istanbul has also vibrant city life and colorful nightlife. In this article, we are going to look at one of the unique places in Istanbul, Kilyos. […]

10 Fun Things to Do in Istanbul at Night
calendar_today Apr 24, 2025 6 min

10 Fun Things to Do in Istanbul at Night

Discover the Best of Istanbul at Night! From scenic Bosphorus cruises to historical landmarks, Istanbul’s nightlife offers something for everyone. Explore vibrant streets, enjoy rooftop bars, and immerse yourself in Turkish culture with an unforgettable experience. Book your Istanbul Tourist Pass now!

Istanbul Cocktail Festival: Gastronomy, Mixology, and Music
calendar_today Apr 24, 2025 6 min

Istanbul Cocktail Festival: Gastronomy, Mixology, and Music

Istanbul is a vibrant city with a lot going on all the time.  Art exhibits overflow into ancient squares, open-air concerts reverberate over the Bosphorus, and food markets crowd small streets.  The schedule is crammed with cuisine, music, and cultural events from spring to late fall turning every weekend into a celebration. 
 
 Among […]

Istanbul: Europe’s Most Desirable City in 2025 – 7 Ways To Explore It Like a Local
calendar_today Nov 20, 2025 5 min

Istanbul: Europe’s Most Desirable City in 2025 – 7 Ways To Explore It Like a Local

Istanbul won “Most Desirable City (Europe)” 2025. See why—and explore like a local with 7 smart routes, food tips, ferries, and money-savvy passes.

Under Istanbul: Cisterns Beyond Basilica
calendar_today May 29, 2025 6 min

Under Istanbul: Cisterns Beyond Basilica

Istanbul dazzles in the sun. Minarets catch the morning light, ferries leave white trails across the Bosphorus, and shopkeepers sweep their doorways as the city wakes. Yet a different Istanbul waits far below the cobblestones. There, under layers of brick and time, cool water once flowed through hundreds of stone chambers. Most travelers line up […]

Istanbul’s Forgotten History: Exploring the City’s Lesser-Known Past
calendar_today May 31, 2025 5 min

Istanbul’s Forgotten History: Exploring the City’s Lesser-Known Past

Uncover the hidden layers of Istanbul beyond the famous landmarks. Explore ancient walls, forgotten cisterns, and quiet neighborhoods with rich multicultural history.

Cultural Keepsakes: Souvenirs from Istanbul
calendar_today May 26, 2025 5 min

Cultural Keepsakes: Souvenirs from Istanbul

Discover the best souvenirs in Istanbul—from intricate Turkish ceramics and the iconic evil eye to fragrant spices and handwoven carpets. These cultural keepsakes capture the heart of Turkey, making perfect gifts or personal mementos. Plus, save time shopping by skipping queues at major sites with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®.