International Patient Travel Information
Visiting Thessaloniki, Greece for Surgery
International patients in Thessaloniki
Dr. Harris Georgousis, MD, PhD, treats many international patients at the state of the art European Interbalkan Medical Center Thessaloniki, for shoulder and elbow surgery. With extensive experience as a specialized Shoulder and Elbow Surgeon in Germany and Greece, and specialist training in the UK, USA and Germany he provides specialized care for complex shoulder and elbow conditions and sports injuries.
Thessaloniki is a beautiful historic city by the sea, with a long tradition as one of the Balkans’ most important cultural and commercial centers. He is associated with the state of the art European Interbalkan Medical Center, a 350 bed private hospital, located close to Thessaloniki Airport and offers a modern high tech. medical infrastructure with all medical subspecialities. (link)
Patient responsibility
Patients are responsible for arranging their own travel, accommodation, airport transfers, insurance, visas, and personal support before, during, and after their stay in Thessaloniki. Dr. Georgousis and his office provide medical coordination only and do not book, organize, recommend, or manage these travel-related services for patients or companion
The Clinic: European Interbalkan Medical Center (EIBMC / “Diavalkaniko”) Thessaloniki
The European Interbalkan Medical Center is a private 350 bed hospital in Thessaloniki, located at 10 Asklipiou Street, Pylaia. It offers state of the art modern medical infrastructure and is close to Thessaloniki Airport.
Dr. Harris Georgousis, MD, PhD has been an associated Surgeon since the beginning of the EIBMC starting in 2000, being the first exclusively specialised Shoulder and Elbow surgeon. An experienced and dedicated crew stands by taking additional and individualized care of his patients.
For international patients, the location is practical because it is near Thessaloniki Airport “Makedonia” (SKG) and nearby airport-area hotels.
Map
International Patient Support at "Athens Medical Group"
International patients can access dedicated assistance through the Athens Medical Group’s International Patient Center, which operates separately from Dr. Georgousis’ office. This hospital-side service helps with hospital cost estimates, support patients during admission and discharge. The team also assists with language needs, documentation, and logistics to ensure a smooth hospital experience.
While Dr. Georgousis’ office manages all medical and surgical planning, the International Patient Center provides an added layer of comfort and guidance for visiting patients.
Learn more about the International Patient Center
Thessaloniki Airport SKG
Thessaloniki Airport “Makedonia” (SKG) is the main arrival point for international patients and is conveniently located near the Interbalkan Medical Center as well as several nearby airport hotels. Thessaloniki Airport is managed by Fraport Greece, a division of Fraport AG, the German‑based international airport management group. Direct non-stop flights from Germany (Lufthansa, Aegean Airlines , Eurowings Ryanair and others) and other European countries vary by season, so patients are encouraged to check current routes and schedules directly with the airport or their chosen airline before making travel arrangements.
Understanding Local Transportation Options
Taxi: usually the simplest option, especially with luggage, medical documents, or after surgery. Taxis are available at Thessaloniki Airport SKG, with the official taxi stand located in the arrivals area between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, between exits 3 and 4.
Local taxi phone: Taxiway Thessaloniki booking phone: +30 2310 866 866. Patients may also ask their hotel reception to call a local taxi.
Uber: Uber Taxi is available in Thessaloniki through the Uber app. Availability, waiting time, and prices may vary, so patients should check the app before relying on it.
Rental car: useful if travelling with a companion and planning several local trips.
Bus: possible, but less practical for most medical travelers. From Thessaloniki Airport SKG, Line 79 connects the airport with the Eastern Bus Transfer Station / IKEA area. The Interbalkan Medical Center is close to the Eastern IKEA stop and can be reached on foot from there. Patients should check live schedules and walking directions before travelling.
All transfers are arranged independently by the patient.
Accommodation options nearby
Accommodation options near the airport and clinic. These hotels are not medical recommendations or partner hotels.
September Hotel Thessaloniki (5⭐)
September Hotel Thessaloniki is a modern airport-area hotel next to the Interbalkan Medical Center (5 minutes walking distance) and the eastern side of the city. It may be convenient for patients who prefer a nearby stay with shorter transfers between the hotel, clinic, and airport. Patients should contact the hotel directly for availability, accessibility needs, cancellation terms, and any special requirements before booking.
Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki (5⭐)
Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki is a full-service hotel close to Thessaloniki Airport, with resort-style facilities and spacious surroundings. It may suit patients travelling with a companion or family member who prefer a larger hotel environment and additional on-site services. Patients should confirm room type, accessibility, transport options, and booking conditions directly with the hotel before making arrangements.
City Gate Hotel
City Gate Hotel is an airport-area hotel in Thermi, useful for short stays, late arrivals, or early departures from Thessaloniki Airport. Its location can be practical for patients who want to stay outside the city center and remain close to the airport road network. Patients should check current room availability, transfer options, accessibility, and cancellation terms directly with the hotel.
Thessaloniki, city of sea, history, and light
Thessaloniki is a vibrant seaside city layered with centuries of history, shaped by Byzantine, Roman, Ottoman, Jewish, and modern Greek influences. Its waterfront setting and compact layout make it especially welcoming for visitors. The city offers a practical and comfortable experience, with plenty of hotels, restaurants, cafés, pharmacies, and shopping areas easily accessible throughout the center. Taxis are widely available, and many key attractions can be reached on foot, especially along the scenic promenade. Thessaloniki blends cultural depth with everyday convenience, giving travelers the chance to explore historic landmarks, enjoy local cuisine, and experience the relaxed rhythm of a modern Greek city, all within a walkable and friendly environment.
Arrival instructions
You will meet Dr. Georgousis either at the European Interbalkan Medical Center or at his Thessaloniki office, according to your prior agreement.
Bring passport / ID, medical documents, imaging, medication list, and appointment details.
Contact details
Operation-related questions
For questions regarding the operation, appointment, or medical treatment, please contact Dr. Georgousis’ office. Contact Dr. Georgousis’ office
Clinic administration
For clinic information, admission, payments, or hospital-side services, contact the Interbalkan Medical Center / Athens Medical Group directly and mention that you are Dr. Georgousis’ patient. tel: +30 231 040 0000
Useful Links
- Thessaloniki Airport
- Airport public bus information
- Public transport / OSETH
- Thessaloniki tourism
- German Consulate / German missions in Greece
- Emergency numbers: 112 European emergency, 166 ambulance, 100 police
Key Locations in Thessaloniki - Map for International Patients
- European Interbalkan Medical Center
- Thessaloniki Airport SKG
- Dr. Georgousis’ Thessaloniki office
- September Hotel Thessaloniki
- Hyatt Regency Thessaloniki
- City Gate Hotel
- Thessaloniki City center / waterfront
- German Consulate
Important: Travel, accommodation, transfer, insurance, visa, and personal-support arrangements are the patient’s responsibility.
