Buying Glasses in Turkey: A Guide for Tourists & Expats
Turkey is a smart place to buy eyewear: the same international lens brands you know, expert fitting and genuinely good value. Here's exactly what to expect when buying glasses or contact lenses in Izmir.
If you're visiting or living in Izmir, buying your next pair of glasses here can be surprisingly easy — and good value. At Beş Optik we've served the city since the 1950s and regularly help international customers. This guide walks you through the brands, the process, how to read your prescription and what to expect. New here? Start with our optician in Izmir guide.
Why Buy Your Glasses in Izmir?
🌍 The Brands You Know
We work with leading international lens makers — Hoya, Zeiss, Essilor and Seiko — the same names sold worldwide.
💶 Great Value
Branded lenses and quality frames often cost noticeably less here than in many Western European countries.
⚡ Fast Service
Many single-vision glasses can be ready the same day when the lenses are in stock.
🎯 Expert Fitting
Correct measurements and precise centration make all the difference — especially for progressive lenses.
What You Can Get
- Prescription glasses — single vision, progressive (varifocal) or office/computer lenses
- Prescription sunglasses — tinted, polarised, with certified UV protection
- Lens coatings — anti-reflective, blue-light filter, scratch-resistant, photochromic (light-adaptive)
- Contact lenses — major international brands, daily or monthly
- Reading glasses and quick repairs / adjustments
How It Works: 4 Simple Steps
Bring your prescription (or your current glasses — we can read them).
Choose your frame and lens options with our guidance.
We cut and fit your lenses with precise measurements.
Collect your glasses and we make any final comfort adjustments.
Understanding Your Prescription
Prescriptions look similar worldwide. Here's what the abbreviations mean, so you know exactly what to send us:
| Term | What it means |
|---|---|
| SPH (Sphere) | Lens power for short- or long-sightedness (minus for myopia, plus for hyperopia). |
| CYL (Cylinder) | Amount of astigmatism correction. May be blank if you have none. |
| AXIS | Direction (0–180°) of the astigmatism correction. Goes with CYL. |
| ADD | Extra reading power for progressive / bifocal lenses (usually 40+). |
| PD | Pupillary distance (mm) between your eyes. We can also measure this in store. |
| OD / OS | Right eye (OD) and left eye (OS). Sometimes written R / L. |
| BC / DIA | Base curve and diameter — needed for contact lenses only. |
💡 Tip: Just send us a photo of your prescription on WhatsApp. If you don't have one, contact us and we'll advise you on getting an up-to-date eye test.
Timing & Smart Tips
- Timing: in-stock single-vision glasses can often be same-day; progressive or special lenses usually take a few working days.
- Insist on certified lenses with guaranteed UV protection — especially for sunglasses.
- Ask for a written quote before you decide; we're happy to explain every option.
- Keep your receipt and lens details in case you need them back home.
- Card payments are welcome at all branches.
Get a Free Quote — We Speak English
Send us a photo of your prescription on WhatsApp and we'll advise you on options, timing and price. Or just walk into our Karşıyaka, Alsancak or Bornova branch.
💬 Get a Quote on WhatsAppFrequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to buy glasses in Turkey?
For many visitors, yes — branded lenses and quality frames often cost less here than in much of Western Europe. The final price depends on your frame and lens choice, so ask us for a written quote.
Can you use my foreign prescription?
Yes. Prescriptions use the same international values (SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, PD). Bring it with you or send a photo on WhatsApp and we'll take care of the rest.
How long does it take to get my glasses?
In-stock single-vision glasses can often be ready the same day. Progressive or special lenses usually take a few working days — we'll give you an exact time once we see your prescription.
Do you have branded lenses like Hoya, Zeiss or Essilor?
Yes, we work with leading international lens makers including Hoya, Zeiss, Essilor and Seiko, plus a full range of coatings.
Can I pay by card?
Yes, card payments are welcome at all three of our branches in Karşıyaka, Alsancak and Bornova.
