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English
- Hagia Sophia
- Hagia Sophia Museum
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Hagia Sophia Church
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Hagia Sophia Photos
Hagia Sophia Tours & Tickets
Headout is a brand trusted by millions of guests worldwide offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
- Bypass the ticketing queue with these skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia (you must still go through the mandatory security line), designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an audio guide available in 23 languages.
- Travel back in time and hop on a spiritual experience at Hagia Sophia, while gaining valuable insights about the Islamic and Byzantine heritage of the monument.
- Explore the marvel that once held the title of the world's largest place of worship for over a millennium, and check out the mosaics and the imperial dome.
- Enter the 2nd-floor visitors' area with skip-the-line access and explore the upper gallery at your own pace and convenience.
- Learn about the fascinating history of the oldest and fastest-built cathedral, its architecture, and heritage from your audio guide.
- Bypass the ticketing queue with these skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia (you must still go through the mandatory security line), designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with an audio guide available in 23 languages.
- Travel back in time and hop on a spiritual experience at Hagia Sophia, while gaining valuable insights about the Islamic and Byzantine heritage of the monument.
- Explore the marvel that once held the title of the world's largest place of worship for over a millennium, and check out the mosaics and the imperial dome.
- Enter the 2nd-floor visitors' area with skip-the-line access and explore the upper gallery at your own pace and convenience.
- Learn about the fascinating history of the oldest and fastest-built cathedral, its architecture, and heritage from your audio guide.
Inclusions
- Skip the ticket line to Hagia Sophia
- Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
- Audio guide for both attractions (optional)
- 10% discount at Dsign Cafe
Exclusions
- Skip the security line
- Tip: The building's ground floor has the best Instagram potential. Photograph the stunning interiors and beautiful ceiling from here.
- You skip the ticket lines but you cannot skip the security check.
- The security check can take up to 60 minutes during peak seasons.
- The prayer area in the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.
- Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf.
- Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders.
- If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (A scarf is €2 and a body cover is €3).
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Don't forget to carry your own headphones to listen to the audio guide.
- Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommend visiting after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.2
3.2K ratings
1.9K
776
134
160
238
What our guests say
Hippler,
Dec 2024Verified booking
Fantastic no waiting on hold. A supervisor was so friendly and helped me set up the video and audio with a lot of patience. An extra thank you again : ) !
View original review in German
Niels
Dec 2024Verified booking
We were blessed with a great guide named Mehmet who provided us with information on the sides and about culture and life in Istanbul. He further took care of everyones personal needs like extended pauses for food and drinks!
DANIELA
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything was wonderful the views the history of the places, and the guide which he was speaking really good english .
Naike
Nov 2024Verified booking
Beautiful and very interesting tour, Ali very kind guide, made us spend 4 hours without ever getting bored and telling us many historical anecdotes of this fantastic city
View original review in Italian
Ralf
Nov 2024Verified booking
We were not advised to take headphones with us. So we could only turn our cell phones down and couldn't hear everything
View original review in German
Yordanka
Nov 2024Verified booking
I felt that the tour guide was not knowledgeable enough to explain the history and the facts around Haga Sophia. We stayed around 30minutes outside and he was just talking and most of us are English speakers and couldn't understand what he was saying. One couple asked him why you need to cover your head when you go in the mosque and the tour guide said "these are the rules" and moved on. Repeatedly kept saying "by the way" and "actually".
Chiara
Nov 2024Verified booking
The skip-tail ticket allowed us faster access to Hagia Sophia or given the tight schedule we would have had to postpone. The 'audio guide not very exhaustive and not very fluent (the division between Ottoman and Byzantine route makes the visit not very easy). Also the non-specific identification of landmarks in the ground floor room or tour floor. The visit thus limited to the first floor makes the 'experience incomplete. The mosque, however, is splendid.
View original review in Italian
Jeremy
Nov 2024Verified booking
Still had to queue despite 'skip the queue' tickets. This description is misleading. If there are instructions on the tickets as to how to get the free audio guide they are pretty well hidden.
Carlos
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was fast and evidently the place is amazing. I had been before, but never at the top. I was able to see up close and learn about the hidden Christian, Byzantine paintings. It really is amazing to be able to appreciate something so old with so much history.
View original review in Spanish
ENRIQUE
Nov 2024Verified booking
The place is magnificent but you can only access the upper galleries if you are not Muslim. This is something that should have been warned before the visit.
View original review in Spanish
Niall
Nov 2024Verified booking
The history of the area. Seeing all the attractions. Tour guide was very engaging and knowledgeable. Being guided throughout and skipping the queues.
Ioan
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great introduction to the city history and culture! Seeing this amazing constructions,having Arda as a passionate and so knowledgeable guide helped us made this trip the highlight of the year!
Alfredo
Nov 2024Verified booking
Banana short , with pa famivlua and friends, to visit assortment Istanbul, monuments and as it's Molo beautiful. We are contention Of the trip
View original review in Italian
Silvana
Oct 2024Verified booking
We were able to go straight through without wasting time. The long line is for security checks but it goes fast. I recommend it
View original review in Spanish
Karlijn
Oct 2024Verified booking
It is a must see, 20 yr ago you bog stand down in the dome, unfortunately could not anymore. But the idea that this is already so old, incredible!
View original review in Dutch
Jennifer
Oct 2024Verified booking
Tour was fantastic with Busa - she was really informative and had a lovely sense of humour. Everything ran on time and the time at each place was perfect.
SALLIM
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was a mosque and previously was a church. Certainly memorable to see the magnificent strucrture and the decorations and the historical depections of Christianity maintained at certain parts of the mosque thus respecting history.
Han
Oct 2024Verified booking
The history of this place of worship is immensely interesting. Byzantine church, mosque, museum and again mosque. Pity is what has been lost from Byzantine times.
View original review in Dutch
Annelise
Oct 2024Verified booking
The experience was very good, but they're not really wire-cut tickets. We had to wait a very long time and I'm handicapped. Afterwards, however, we were able to move faster than those without tickets.
View original review in French
Valentina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide Buse was really nice and knowledgable We skipped all the lines and got to know interesting facts about Istanbul history Good price for what you get
Gillian
Oct 2024Verified booking
The communication has been very good. The guide was punctual and spoke excellent English . He had a good voice and he could be heard above the surrounding noise. Samet - our guide was very knowledgeable and approachable. I enjoyed his tour . The building spoke for itself. Amazing and well worth the visit!
Tina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide was so knowledgeable about each of the places we went, and he was very patient with our questions and keeping us all together.
Andreea-Roxana
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was a beautiful experience! We entered immediately with the skip the line ticket! I didn't use the audio guide because I didn't know how to install it, but it's not necessary, Hagia Sofia speaks for itself! Andreea 💋 xoxo
Neil
Oct 2024Verified booking
Ticketing straight forward and we think Arder was knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. He was a pleasure to be with.
Ilaria
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very well organised. Good that we managed to see 3 of the most important places in Istanbul with the same guide and within 3/4 hours.
Combos
Combo (Save 13%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
from €69.50
€60.80
13% off
- Avail of a great cost benefit with this combo, giving you skip-the-line access to two of Istanbul’s iconic sites: the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia.
- Marvel at the impressive Byzantine architecture of the Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century subterranean marvel with 336 massive columns.
- Soak in the Basilica Cistern experience with an optional multilingual audio guide providing intriguing insights into the history of this unique site.
- Step into the world-famous Hagia Sophia, once the largest place of worship for over a millennium with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.
- Enjoy the liberty to explore the magnificent mosaics and paintings at your own pace at the Hagia Sophia’s 2nd-floor Visitors' Center.
- Avail of a great cost benefit with this combo, giving you skip-the-line access to two of Istanbul’s iconic sites: the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia.
- Marvel at the impressive Byzantine architecture of the Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century subterranean marvel with 336 massive columns.
- Soak in the Basilica Cistern experience with an optional multilingual audio guide providing intriguing insights into the history of this unique site.
- Step into the world-famous Hagia Sophia, once the largest place of worship for over a millennium with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.
- Enjoy the liberty to explore the magnificent mosaics and paintings at your own pace at the Hagia Sophia’s 2nd-floor Visitors' Center.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry to the Basilica Cistern
- Multilingual audio guide
Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
- Audio guide in 23 languages
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Keep an eye out for the ghostly outlines of carp swimming in the water, they make for a great photo backdrop.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Look for the 'weeping column,' it's believed to have healing powers.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- You skip the ticket lines but you cannot skip the security check.
- The security check can take up to 60 minutes during peak seasons.
- Women should not wear knee-length shorts, skirts, or clothing with exposed shoulders or chests. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf.
- Men should not wear knee-length shorts or clothing with exposed shoulders.
- Clothes and scarves are available for purchase at the entrance of the attraction.
- Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommend visiting after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.0
1.0K ratings
474
305
59
78
87
What our guests say
DEVENDRAN
Dec 2024Verified booking
It's covered 3 places with discounted rate.. & I really love It, only one small issue.. There is no line inside basilica cistern and I couldn't play the audio guide completely..
MARÍA
Dec 2024Verified booking
A fabulous place, one of my favorites in Istanbul, it is the second time I visit it and I still find it spectacular. I went in without waiting or queuing
View original review in Spanish
Kathrine
Dec 2024Verified booking
Speed of entry. Less than a minute! We were there when it opened. Apart from this purely practical aspect, the place is magnificent!
View original review in French
Cherese
Nov 2024Verified booking
It is really worth it. I highly suggest getting your tickets online to skip the long wait at Hagia Sophia and the Basilica cistern. Beautiful Mosque and nice structure at the cistern.
Joëlle
Nov 2024Verified booking
The tickets were very good. The museum staff was very competent. The audio guide didn't work or didn't work well, especially in Hagia Sophia. Very nice visits and having the queue-cutting tickets is great.
View original review in French
Rachel
Nov 2024Verified booking
Both the Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cisterne were well worth a visit. The queues for both were huge even early on a Sunday so I have no idea why people didn't get these! You can just walk on past all those people trying to buy the ticket in person and get in and enjoy the places. I would go early as it is so busy.
Richard
Nov 2024Verified booking
Enjoyed both places and they're both close together. Definitely liked not waiting in line as they ticket line was very long.
Holly
Nov 2024Verified booking
The cistern alone is astounding and well worth the price of admission. The walkways that have been engineered so people can wander through the entire cistern are impressive. The skip the line ticket process is simple and worth the small extra cost. The audio guide was easy to use and interesting without being overly informative. One thing that I did not enjoy was the pop art style modern sculptures and colorful lighting. I would have preferred simple white or gold lighting. Nevertheless the cistern is a must see and is one of the most interesting places I've ever visited.
Nancy
Nov 2024Verified booking
We were very disappointed and felt discriminated against that we were separated from the Muslims and only allowed upstairs in the Hagia but not downstairs even after prayer times, in my opinion not worth the money! Sultan ahmet opposite is free.
View original review in German
Montluet
Nov 2024Verified booking
Must-see tours Audioguide on the cell phone, great, it allows us to cut ourselves off from the ambient noise and immerse ourselves totally in the visit to the site.
View original review in French
Marcelle
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very picturesque site. Difficult to access my ticket without WIFI. Finally, I was able to listen to the audio guide after the tour.
View original review in French
Maruša
Nov 2024Verified booking
.All the sights are very nice and the skip the line went smoothly. The only thing that is a minus in my opinion is the price. We are a 4 member familly and the price was very expensive.
Lyndel
Nov 2024Verified booking
Once I worked out the Headout site I was able to download the audios for the 3 sites I was visiting, though the instructions could have been easier to use. I did find the audio did not correspond with the layout of the Palace and the photos on the audio also did not correspond so I gave up listening. It would be helpful if the Headout audio corresponded with the same numbers that the Palace site uses.
PEDRO
Nov 2024Verified booking
I don't think it's worth the trouble to visit with an audio guide. The only good thing is that you don't have to wait in line. But I think it is more interesting to look for another option that guarantees a personal guide in Spanish.
View original review in Spanish
Barbara
Nov 2024Verified booking
The fast-track entry worked well, the explanations in the audio guide were easy to understand and not too long, so that you had enough information but were not overloaded.
View original review in German
Teresita
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was easy to buy and very good attention when we got there, they also explained it to us clearly by listening to the audio. All good, thank you very much Teresita from Chile
View original review in Spanish
Sandra
Nov 2024Verified booking
Highly recommended! We did not queue and having an audio guide in our language made it easier to understand the tour. Safe and fast online purchase. Affordable price
View original review in Spanish
Lorenza
Oct 2024Verified booking
Complicated - it would be easier to be able to have access with the ticket in app, without having to collect it prime and queue.
View original review in Italian
ELVIR
Oct 2024Verified booking
A very stable way to buy a ticket. I would like to give you a more detailed insight into the history of the hundred years of better life of this unique material.
This review is translated. Show original review.
Paola
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very welcome a visit to the Topkape palace that would have deserved extra time. In the afternoon we had planned to visit the Cisterna Basilica and thought we would not arrive in time. Beautiful Cisterna Basilica, but I got the impression that access hours were well after 6:30 pm. I always noticed long lines even after this time A little disappointed with Hagia Sophia. Beautiful building on the outside, less so on the inside
View original review in Italian
Veronica
Oct 2024Verified booking
Flexibility for example: we could not use the tickets for the selected date and they were accepted for the following day! We also skipped very long lines and paid less than the ticket prices sold locally! Excellent service
View original review in Italian
Liliana
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was a surprise to enter such an old and well preserved site, the lighting is perfect and the modern sculptures installed there add a lot of character, we loved not having to wait in line to enter especially because the day was very hot and it is always visited by many people.
View original review in Spanish
marcia
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was very easy and straightforward. I had a phone problem when the time came to show the ticket and the gentleman was very patient in waiting for my phone to restart. Everybody was polite.
charles
Oct 2024Verified booking
Not really skip the line for hagia sofia - line is so long for either one, you just don't have to go to the ticket booth and buy a ticket first. Basilica was hardly worth it either, but saving 5% is nice.
Marlene
Oct 2024Verified booking
It was annoying to find out that we should have picked up our audio guides at a different location. I felt scammed as I've paid for it but did not use it in the end. Also I felt it was way too expensive for what was offered. The informations given at the sight were really underwhelming - they should hire an information designer to make it more interesting and informative, then maybe it would have been worth the money.
Combos
Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
from €123.50
€112.10
9% off
- This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
- Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
- Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
- At Basilica Cistern, spot the column that is shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
- With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.
- This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
- Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
- Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
- At Basilica Cistern, spot the column that is shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
- With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.
Inclusions
Topkapi Palace
- Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Topkapi Palace
- Access to Harem Museum and Hagia Irene Museum
- Audio guide in English, Arabic, French, German, and Spanish
Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Basilica Cistern
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish
Topkapi Palace
- Tip: In the first courtyard, don't miss Hagia Irene, the oldest church in Istanbul and one of the oldest unreconstructed buildings in the world.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Don't miss the Deesis mosaic, a recently uncovered Byzantine treasure depicting Virgin Mary, Jesus, and John the Baptist in a scene of intercession.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- The prayer area on the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Look out for exhibitions which combine modern art installations with the cistern's ancient architecture, showcasing Istanbul's evolving character.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.0
2.9K ratings
1.6K
553
257
250
273
What our guests say
DEVENDRAN
Dec 2024Verified booking
It's covered 3 places with discounted rate.. & I really love It, only one small issue.. There is no line inside basilica cistern and I couldn't play the audio guide completely..
MARÍA
Dec 2024Verified booking
A fabulous place, one of my favorites in Istanbul, it is the second time I visit it and I still find it spectacular. I went in without waiting or queuing
View original review in Spanish
Kathrine
Dec 2024Verified booking
Speed of entry. Less than a minute! We were there when it opened. Apart from this purely practical aspect, the place is magnificent!
View original review in French
Maria
Dec 2024Verified booking
Topkapi is a place worth visiting all day because it is huge and has different rooms and exhibitions to see in its 4 gardens. I liked to know the harem and not only the visit that the tour offered me.
View original review in Spanish
Cherese
Nov 2024Verified booking
It is really worth it. I highly suggest getting your tickets online to skip the long wait at Hagia Sophia and the Basilica cistern. Beautiful Mosque and nice structure at the cistern.
Joëlle
Nov 2024Verified booking
The tickets were very good. The museum staff was very competent. The audio guide didn't work or didn't work well, especially in Hagia Sophia. Very nice visits and having the queue-cutting tickets is great.
View original review in French
Rachel
Nov 2024Verified booking
Both the Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cisterne were well worth a visit. The queues for both were huge even early on a Sunday so I have no idea why people didn't get these! You can just walk on past all those people trying to buy the ticket in person and get in and enjoy the places. I would go early as it is so busy.
Richard
Nov 2024Verified booking
Enjoyed both places and they're both close together. Definitely liked not waiting in line as they ticket line was very long.
Roberto
Nov 2024Verified booking
With the "skip the line" ticket, we were forced to wait more than half an hour for the person in charge, while at the ticket office there was no line at all. In essence, instead of "skipping" the line we waited for a long time.
View original review in Italian
Alejandra
Nov 2024Verified booking
The Harem is beautiful, it takes you back to that time. The kitchen is impressive, the utensils and pots are preserved. The clothing room shows the elegance with which they dressed. The gardens are very beautiful, the whole palace is amazing. It is the best museum in Istanbul.
View original review in Spanish
Dominique
Nov 2024Verified booking
The audio guide didn't download until 4 hours into the visit... so a bit late.... The download icon moves, but no download would take place. It should be made clearer that you have to download in advance. It should also be made clearer that there are no tickets (no souvenir trace), it's the guide who lets you in, so don't miss the meeting point. For people who don't understand English well, a brochure would be welcome to explain what the guide is saying as he accompanies us. It would be more effective if the numbers on the audio guide map corresponded with the numbers on the physical information terminals on the site.
View original review in French
Holly
Nov 2024Verified booking
The cistern alone is astounding and well worth the price of admission. The walkways that have been engineered so people can wander through the entire cistern are impressive. The skip the line ticket process is simple and worth the small extra cost. The audio guide was easy to use and interesting without being overly informative. One thing that I did not enjoy was the pop art style modern sculptures and colorful lighting. I would have preferred simple white or gold lighting. Nevertheless the cistern is a must see and is one of the most interesting places I've ever visited.
Nancy
Nov 2024Verified booking
We were very disappointed and felt discriminated against that we were separated from the Muslims and only allowed upstairs in the Hagia but not downstairs even after prayer times, in my opinion not worth the money! Sultan ahmet opposite is free.
View original review in German
Montluet
Nov 2024Verified booking
Must-see tours Audioguide on the cell phone, great, it allows us to cut ourselves off from the ambient noise and immerse ourselves totally in the visit to the site.
View original review in French
Marcelle
Nov 2024Verified booking
Very picturesque site. Difficult to access my ticket without WIFI. Finally, I was able to listen to the audio guide after the tour.
View original review in French
Maruša
Nov 2024Verified booking
.All the sights are very nice and the skip the line went smoothly. The only thing that is a minus in my opinion is the price. We are a 4 member familly and the price was very expensive.
Lyndel
Nov 2024Verified booking
Once I worked out the Headout site I was able to download the audios for the 3 sites I was visiting, though the instructions could have been easier to use. I did find the audio did not correspond with the layout of the Palace and the photos on the audio also did not correspond so I gave up listening. It would be helpful if the Headout audio corresponded with the same numbers that the Palace site uses.
PEDRO
Nov 2024Verified booking
I don't think it's worth the trouble to visit with an audio guide. The only good thing is that you don't have to wait in line. But I think it is more interesting to look for another option that guarantees a personal guide in Spanish.
View original review in Spanish
Favio
Nov 2024Verified booking
The place and the planning of the visit is fine, but nothing is explained about the audio guide which was not possible to download or listen to, so much information is lost in relation to the visit.
View original review in Spanish
Barbara
Nov 2024Verified booking
The fast-track entry worked well, the explanations in the audio guide were easy to understand and not too long, so that you had enough information but were not overloaded.
View original review in German
Teresita
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was easy to buy and very good attention when we got there, they also explained it to us clearly by listening to the audio. All good, thank you very much Teresita from Chile
View original review in Spanish
Reezwan
Nov 2024Verified booking
The experience was good. Booking procedure was easy and also location direction was clearly explained. Upon arrival at the meeting point, we were asked wait for a while. The guide came after 10-15 minutes and called the group. He explained everything to us about entry and his length of stay with us and guided us to the entrance and Harem area. Although they say that early morning is the best time to visit however there was literally no queue in the afternoon at 3 pm. We heard from the guide that morning was so crowded. So, I think late afternoon is the best time to go and visit the Topkapi palace.
Sandra
Nov 2024Verified booking
Highly recommended! We did not queue and having an audio guide in our language made it easier to understand the tour. Safe and fast online purchase. Affordable price
View original review in Spanish
Lorenza
Oct 2024Verified booking
Complicated - it would be easier to be able to have access with the ticket in app, without having to collect it prime and queue.
View original review in Italian
ELVIR
Oct 2024Verified booking
A very stable way to buy a ticket. I would like to give you a more detailed insight into the history of the hundred years of better life of this unique material.
This review is translated. Show original review.
Guided Tours
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
- Enjoy a guided tour of 3 of Istanbul’s iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over a span of 2 days.
- Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert English-speaking guide.
- Admire the artwork here with raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings as you to the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
- Soak up the architectural charm and beauty of the Blue Mosque as you admire the hand-painted blue tiles that adorn the mosque’s interior walls.
- See the 5 main domes, 6 minarets, and 8 secondary domes and learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam and Istanbul’s rich heritage from your guide.
- Enter Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires and admire its architectural beauty.
- Enjoy a guided tour of 3 of Istanbul’s iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over a span of 2 days.
- Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert English-speaking guide.
- Admire the artwork here with raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings as you to the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
- Soak up the architectural charm and beauty of the Blue Mosque as you admire the hand-painted blue tiles that adorn the mosque’s interior walls.
- See the 5 main domes, 6 minarets, and 8 secondary domes and learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam and Istanbul’s rich heritage from your guide.
- Enter Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires and admire its architectural beauty.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- 30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern
- Expert English-speaking guide
Blue Mosque
- 60-min guided tour of the Blue Mosque
- Entry to the Blue Mosque
- English-speaking guide
Hagia Sophia
- 60-min guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia
- English-speaking tour guide
- Audio guide inside Hagia Sophia
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: The underground cistern is dark and damp, which can lead to a drop in temperature. It’s best to carry a light cardigan to keep yourself warm.
Blue Mosque
- Tip: Look out for decorations and items inside the mosque inscribed with the names of the caliphs and verses from the Quran.
- This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
- Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
- If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Don’t forget to make a wish at one of Hagia Sophia’s columns, known as the ‘wishing column.’ Legend has it that if you poke your finger through a hole in the column and your finger emerges wet, your wishes will come true and you’ll be cured of any illness. No harm in trying!
- This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
- Please expect a considerable wait time as you enter the attraction, especially during holidays and weekends.
- Security checks at Hagia Sophia take approximately 30 minutes.
- Since it is a religious place, guests are requested to wear clothes that cover their arms and head.
- While photography is allowed, all visitors are requested to refrain from turning on flash and using bulky accessories like tripods.
- Hagia Sophia may be closed during prayer times as it is a place of religious worship.
- These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of purchase.
Reviews
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Niels
Dec 2024Verified booking
We were blessed with a great guide named Mehmet who provided us with information on the sides and about culture and life in Istanbul. He further took care of everyones personal needs like extended pauses for food and drinks!
DANIELA
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything was wonderful the views the history of the places, and the guide which he was speaking really good english .
Naike
Nov 2024Verified booking
Beautiful and very interesting tour, Ali very kind guide, made us spend 4 hours without ever getting bored and telling us many historical anecdotes of this fantastic city
View original review in Italian
Niall
Nov 2024Verified booking
The history of the area. Seeing all the attractions. Tour guide was very engaging and knowledgeable. Being guided throughout and skipping the queues.
Ioan
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great introduction to the city history and culture! Seeing this amazing constructions,having Arda as a passionate and so knowledgeable guide helped us made this trip the highlight of the year!
Jennifer
Oct 2024Verified booking
Tour was fantastic with Busa - she was really informative and had a lovely sense of humour. Everything ran on time and the time at each place was perfect.
Valentina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide Buse was really nice and knowledgable We skipped all the lines and got to know interesting facts about Istanbul history Good price for what you get
Tina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide was so knowledgeable about each of the places we went, and he was very patient with our questions and keeping us all together.
Neil
Oct 2024Verified booking
Ticketing straight forward and we think Arder was knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. He was a pleasure to be with.
Ilaria
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very well organised. Good that we managed to see 3 of the most important places in Istanbul with the same guide and within 3/4 hours.
Rainer
Oct 2024Verified booking
A great and interesting tour which provides you with a fascinating look inside a beautiful, iconic mosque. The tour guide provides lots of background information which makes the tour even more interesting. Highly recommended!
Michał
Oct 2024Verified booking
Besides visiting incredible places like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern, a real highlight was our guide, Arda. His knowledge, dedication, and sense of humor were outstanding. I highly recommend both Headout and Arda, an excellent combination!
Akanksha
Oct 2024Verified booking
Arda was absolutely fantastic! He not only explained everything in great detail but also made sure the entire group felt well taken care of throughout the tour. His knowledge of each place we visited was impressive, and he effortlessly combined that with a delightful sense of humor that kept us all entertained. It was a wonderful experience from start to finish, and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for an engaging and informative journey of Istanbul!
Jenni
Oct 2024Verified booking
guide was dynmanic, tour interesting & covering all 3 in 4 hours was very time effeicent with a short stay. We travelled with 4 children- one 14 yrs and this held his interest salso which is not easy
Melissa
Sep 2024Verified booking
Arda was an amazing tour guide! Very patient and incredibly knowledgeable. I just wish I had a list of all the books he mentioned. I would recommend this tour to anyone. It's very worth it to skip lines and get more historical context out of your trip.
Ross
Sep 2024Verified booking
Our guide Arda was awesome, knowledgeable, organised, and funny. Skip the queue aspect made the tour even more pleasurable.
Franz
Sep 2024Verified booking
Everything was very punctual. The skip lines worked wonderfully and were also very necessary due to the large crowds of tourists. Guide very competent and experienced
View original review in German
Godfrey
Sep 2024Verified booking
guide was very polite, competent, good spoken english. mexican members of the group only spoke spanish therefore everthing had to be translated
Meganrose
Aug 2024Verified booking
Great to be part of a guided tour and be able to skip the queues. While our tour guide was very nice and clearly knowledgeable about the subject matter, he was difficult to understand at times and spent far too long talking. There were periods where we were standing in the hot sun (on the street outside the Hagia Sofia) or sitting on the floor (inside the Blue Mosque) for 30-40+ minutes - this was very uncomfortable and meant we had less time to enjoy the sites at our leisure. There was also a break for lunch not outlined in the ticket which meant the overall tour took hours longer than anticipated.
Marta
Aug 2024Verified booking
Skip the line tickets were the best thing we could do, it saved us hours of waiting in long queues under the sun. The group was quite small which make it easy to hear our guide. Our guide was great, he spoke very good English and explained everything in a very interesting way. I really liked that he also told us about Turkish history, culture, current situation in the country etc., I found it very interesting. Hagia Sofia was amazing and breathtaking. Basilica cistern was a big surprise, it's a beautiful place worth visiting. The time given in each place was enough for exploration and pictures. The tour overall took 4 hours. I highly recommend this tour when in Istanbul.
Maruen
Aug 2024Verified booking
Arda, our guide, was awesome even tho it was sometimes hard to hear every word he said (to be fair every place we saw was quite crowded). Also the skip the line feature is super useful! There is enough time to take pics and buy water or food during the tour
Elaguppillai
Aug 2024Verified booking
The information passed on by the tour guide can be found on Google. We were expecting something more. Time spent at Basilica Cistern was not enough and didn't have time to take pictures. There was an accident and our group member helped the lady. The guide didn't wait for the doctor to join us nor didn't help him on informing the people concerned at Blue Mosque. There was another lady missing after the Basilica Costern. He didn't do due diligence. I think we spent more time on the first one, second one just hurried through it and last one was an introduction only.
Maria-Jeanette
Aug 2024Verified booking
The tour are flexible in that you can join when you want at different times. We did the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sofia on one day and the Basilica Cistern the next day. Made it less rushed. Guide was very knowledgeble.
Justin
Aug 2024Verified booking
Not specific issues with the audio guide but The headsets where not functioning properly. Unless you where within 10 feet of our guide they where scratching and malfunctioning.
Jose
Jul 2024Verified booking
We loved it! The tour guide did an excellent job explaining everything, he was very knowledgeable and friendly. I will continue to used them on my next excursions.
- With the Istanbul MegaPass, access 2 to 9 attractions in 7 days with Classic, Premium, or Deluxe passes, saving up to 34% on individual ticket costs.
- Head to 2 attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Turkish Hammam, Dolmabahce Palace, and more with the Classic pass.
- What's more? Every pass comes with a free Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions.
- Emails with all tickets to the selected attraction will be delivered straight to your inbox so you can rest assured and plan your adventure.
- Choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to visit 4 or 9 attractions. More exploration at a great deal!
- With the Istanbul MegaPass, access 2 to 9 attractions in 7 days with Classic, Premium, or Deluxe passes, saving up to 34% on individual ticket costs.
- Head to 2 attractions like the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Turkish Hammam, Dolmabahce Palace, and more with the Classic pass.
- What's more? Every pass comes with a free Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions.
- Emails with all tickets to the selected attraction will be delivered straight to your inbox so you can rest assured and plan your adventure.
- Choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to visit 4 or 9 attractions. More exploration at a great deal!
Inclusions
- Choice of 2/4/9 of Istanbul's top attractions
- Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace
- Cruises: Bosphorus cruise, Dinner cruise on Bosphorus with Turkish drinks and food
- Tours: Asian side walking tour, Blue Mosque tour,
- Access to hop on hop off bus tour
- Activities: Dervish Ceremony, Turkish bath & Hamam
- 5-ride transportation card
- Digital guide book
- City, tram & metro map
- Get the list of included attractions here.
- No reservation is needed for any activity except the Bosphorus Dinner cruise.
- Each pass is valid for 7 consecutive days including the first day of use.
- You can visit multiple attractions in a day but you can only visit each attraction once with this pass.
- You do have skip-the-line access but you will still need to go through security.
- You'll receive tickets for all attractions you have selected in an email, and you'll receive tickets for all attractions if you've chosen the Deluxe pass.
- You can show the PDF digitally on your phone, or get a physical pass printed if you like.
- You can change the chosen attractions as many times as you want, or you can cancel the pass free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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KARMANN
Nov 2024Verified booking
The fike-cutters are very practical for St Sophia and the Cistern Basilica, but not very efficient for Topkapi. The cruise is very pleasant and the sightseeing buses always interesting for a first visit to the city.
View original review in French
Clemencia
Nov 2024Verified booking
Instructions were clear and easy to follow. Very convenient. The customer service is superb and very helpful!
Ashley
Oct 2024Verified booking
Loved how you could choose which attractions to visit and loved how you could visit on your own schedule!!
Kőrösi
Oct 2024Verified booking
Skip the line really did work! Great!
Pierre
Oct 2024Verified booking
Buying the megacard was a god proposition
View original review in Dutch
SHAMIDAH
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very convenient, well organised and a lot of time saved by booking events online
Edis
Oct 2024Verified booking
Everything is fine, you just have to make sure that you read your emails! It took us a while to find the checkpoint!
View original review in German
Deep
Oct 2024Verified booking
Value and customer service was great!
TANJIL
Oct 2024Verified booking
Well organized, everything went Very smooth. Highly recommend. Customer service(whats app) is excellent.
Oana
Nov 2024Verified booking
Nathalie
Nov 2024Verified booking
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Nov 2024Verified booking
Clare
Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
MARINA
Oct 2024Verified booking
Hritcu
Oct 2024Verified booking
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Oct 2024Verified booking
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Guided Tours
Istanbul Mosques: Guided Tour of Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque with Entry Tickets
- Visit 2 of Istanbul’s top attractions – Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – at a discounted price with this combo ticket that includes a local guide.
- Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque, which is now open to the general public after 5 years of extensive renovations.
- Experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia, the largest religious building in Turkey, and view its magnificent dome featuring 40 windows.
- Join a complimentary walking tour of the Old City around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and click amazing pictures of any gems of the Ottoman Empire!
- Visit 2 of Istanbul’s top attractions – Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – at a discounted price with this combo ticket that includes a local guide.
- Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque, which is now open to the general public after 5 years of extensive renovations.
- Experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia, the largest religious building in Turkey, and view its magnificent dome featuring 40 windows.
- Join a complimentary walking tour of the Old City around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and click amazing pictures of any gems of the Ottoman Empire!
Inclusions
Hagia Sophia
- Hagia Sophia Mosque entrance tickets to the visiting area
- 1-hr guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- English-speaking guide
Blue Mosque
- Entry to the Blue Mosque
- 1-hr guided tour of the Blue Mosque
- English-speaking guide
- Old City tour
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
- Tip: If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).
- Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
- Photography and outside food and drinks are allowed.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.0
510 ratings
260
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What our guests say
Niels
Dec 2024Verified booking
We were blessed with a great guide named Mehmet who provided us with information on the sides and about culture and life in Istanbul. He further took care of everyones personal needs like extended pauses for food and drinks!
DANIELA
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything was wonderful the views the history of the places, and the guide which he was speaking really good english .
Naike
Nov 2024Verified booking
Beautiful and very interesting tour, Ali very kind guide, made us spend 4 hours without ever getting bored and telling us many historical anecdotes of this fantastic city
View original review in Italian
Niall
Nov 2024Verified booking
The history of the area. Seeing all the attractions. Tour guide was very engaging and knowledgeable. Being guided throughout and skipping the queues.
Shirley
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide was amazing, spoke English and explained many things . I wish I had his name to praise him to you as he was the best tour guide taking us through the Blue Mosque, the Underground Cisterns, and Hagia Sofia.
Ioan
Nov 2024Verified booking
Great introduction to the city history and culture! Seeing this amazing constructions,having Arda as a passionate and so knowledgeable guide helped us made this trip the highlight of the year!
Jennifer
Oct 2024Verified booking
Tour was fantastic with Busa - she was really informative and had a lovely sense of humour. Everything ran on time and the time at each place was perfect.
Valentina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide Buse was really nice and knowledgable We skipped all the lines and got to know interesting facts about Istanbul history Good price for what you get
Ines
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our first guide, Arda, who took us around the first two sites was fantastic. Really knowledgeable and went at the right pace. However, our second guide, Martin rushed through explanations at the entrance to Topkapi palace, then used his QRs to scan us into the Harem and left. We hadn't actually been into any of the rooms or sites with him. He also pressured every one in the group to give him a tip before he left.
Tina
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide was so knowledgeable about each of the places we went, and he was very patient with our questions and keeping us all together.
Neil
Oct 2024Verified booking
Ticketing straight forward and we think Arder was knowledgeable and had a good sense of humour. He was a pleasure to be with.
Ilaria
Oct 2024Verified booking
Very well organised. Good that we managed to see 3 of the most important places in Istanbul with the same guide and within 3/4 hours.
Rainer
Oct 2024Verified booking
A great and interesting tour which provides you with a fascinating look inside a beautiful, iconic mosque. The tour guide provides lots of background information which makes the tour even more interesting. Highly recommended!
Michał
Oct 2024Verified booking
Besides visiting incredible places like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern, a real highlight was our guide, Arda. His knowledge, dedication, and sense of humor were outstanding. I highly recommend both Headout and Arda, an excellent combination!
Akanksha
Oct 2024Verified booking
Arda was absolutely fantastic! He not only explained everything in great detail but also made sure the entire group felt well taken care of throughout the tour. His knowledge of each place we visited was impressive, and he effortlessly combined that with a delightful sense of humor that kept us all entertained. It was a wonderful experience from start to finish, and I would highly recommend this tour to anyone looking for an engaging and informative journey of Istanbul!
Jenni
Oct 2024Verified booking
guide was dynmanic, tour interesting & covering all 3 in 4 hours was very time effeicent with a short stay. We travelled with 4 children- one 14 yrs and this held his interest salso which is not easy
Melissa
Sep 2024Verified booking
Arda was an amazing tour guide! Very patient and incredibly knowledgeable. I just wish I had a list of all the books he mentioned. I would recommend this tour to anyone. It's very worth it to skip lines and get more historical context out of your trip.
Ross
Sep 2024Verified booking
Our guide Arda was awesome, knowledgeable, organised, and funny. Skip the queue aspect made the tour even more pleasurable.
Franz
Sep 2024Verified booking
Everything was very punctual. The skip lines worked wonderfully and were also very necessary due to the large crowds of tourists. Guide very competent and experienced
View original review in German
Godfrey
Sep 2024Verified booking
guide was very polite, competent, good spoken english. mexican members of the group only spoke spanish therefore everthing had to be translated
MIRIAM
Aug 2024Verified booking
2 of the guides were excellent. The third one, that took us to Santa Sofia at 11:30 was very, very rude to one of the families on the group, the lady was almost in tears. I felt very uncomfortable and it spoilt the tour for me.
Meganrose
Aug 2024Verified booking
Great to be part of a guided tour and be able to skip the queues. While our tour guide was very nice and clearly knowledgeable about the subject matter, he was difficult to understand at times and spent far too long talking. There were periods where we were standing in the hot sun (on the street outside the Hagia Sofia) or sitting on the floor (inside the Blue Mosque) for 30-40+ minutes - this was very uncomfortable and meant we had less time to enjoy the sites at our leisure. There was also a break for lunch not outlined in the ticket which meant the overall tour took hours longer than anticipated.
Marta
Aug 2024Verified booking
Skip the line tickets were the best thing we could do, it saved us hours of waiting in long queues under the sun. The group was quite small which make it easy to hear our guide. Our guide was great, he spoke very good English and explained everything in a very interesting way. I really liked that he also told us about Turkish history, culture, current situation in the country etc., I found it very interesting. Hagia Sofia was amazing and breathtaking. Basilica cistern was a big surprise, it's a beautiful place worth visiting. The time given in each place was enough for exploration and pictures. The tour overall took 4 hours. I highly recommend this tour when in Istanbul.
Maruen
Aug 2024Verified booking
Arda, our guide, was awesome even tho it was sometimes hard to hear every word he said (to be fair every place we saw was quite crowded). Also the skip the line feature is super useful! There is enough time to take pics and buy water or food during the tour
Elisa
Aug 2024Verified booking
Arda did a great job! It always was interessting to listen to him. Topkapi palace was stunning and we liked this place a lot. The schedule was clever as we started at the palace and had time for lunch afterwards.
Top things to do in Istanbul
Why visit Hagia Sophia?
- Historical significance: The Hagia Sophia is almost 1500 years old and has stood the test of time, living on after the downfall of powerful civilizations and disasters like fires and earthquakes. It started as the Hagia Sophia Church and was then converted to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. After serving as a museum for a few months, it has now been converted back into a mosque.
- Cultural significance: As a former Eastern Orthodox Cathedral, the present-day Hagia Sophia mosque serves as an essential symbol of the co-existence of various religions. Worshippers flock to the mosque every day to show their gratitude and marvel at its wondrous architecture.
- Stunning architecture: The Hagia Sophia Mosque has a Grand Central dome, spanning over 100 feet, and is surrounded by towering columns. The inside is filled with artwork dating back to the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. Visitors can catch spectacular views of the Grand Bazaar and the Bosphorus Strait from the top minarets of this mosque.
Which Hagia Sophia ticket is best for you?
If you are short on time:
Go for: Skip-the-line tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide or an expert historian guide, depending on the ticket you choose
- If you do not have much time, choose Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets to bypass long lines on the day of your visit. These tickets also allow you to enter the second level of the mosque.
- With Headout Saver and combo tickets, you can visit attractions in and around Sultanahmet Square in a day, like the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, and more.
Recommended tours:
If you love history:
Go for: Guided tours
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide or an expert historian guide, depending on the ticket you choose
- You can choose between a self-paced audio-guided tour or an in-person guided tour to understand more about the history and cultural relevance of the mosque.
- Visit the newly-opened Hagia Sophia Experience Museum to learn about the mosque’s artifacts from a unique 3-D perspective.
Recommended tours:
If you are on a budget:
Go for: Combo tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide or an expert historian guide, depending on the ticket you choose
- If you are on a budget but want an in-depth tour of the Hagia Sophia, choose combo tickets. With a one-time purchase, you can tour the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, and more.
- The Headout Saver combo also includes skip-the-line access. You can bypass long lines at the venues and save time.
Recommended tours:
What's Inside Hagia Sophia?
See all photos
Plan your visit to Hagia Sophia
Timings
Getting there
Facilities
Tips
Eat
Stay
Open: Daily
Closed: Prayer hours and during noon prayers on Fridays
Duration of visit: 1 to 2 hours
Best Time to visit: The best time to visit the Hagia Sophia are early mornings and late afternoons when there are fewer people inside the mosque and the golden sun, bathes the central dome in a beautiful light.
Hagia Sophia opening hoursAddress: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih İstanbul, Turkey
- By bus: 28, 32, BN1, or EMI
Nearest stop: Sultanahmet Square - By train: Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) or Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze)
Nearest stop: Marmaray Square or Sultanahmet Square - By metro: M2 line
Nearest stop: Sultanahmet Square - By tram: T1 line
Nearest stop: Sultanahmet Square - By car: The distance from the Istanbul airport to the Hagia Sophia is 46.2 km.
Nearest parking: Naz Otopark and Dalbasti Park in Zeynep Sultam Cami Sk.
- Wheelchair accessibility: Hagia Sophia is accessible to visitors with limited mobility. For wheelchair access, you have to buy tickets at the west corner of the building at the intersection of Alemdar and Ayasofya Meydani. They have a couple of ramps at this entrance. The upper floor requires one to use a staircase, which is not as accessible as the ground floors.
- Photography: You can click pictures inside the mosque. But, you must never click pictures of people when they are praying. Tripods and commercial photography equipment are not allowed inside the mosque.
- Guided tours: Always book Hagia Sophia guided tours. A tour guide will accompany you and share anecdotes and stories about the history of the church-turned-mosque. You will also get to see underrated nooks and hidden gems inside the mosque.
- Cover your heads: Head scarves are available for free at the entrance of the Hagia Sophia. Make sure to cover your head before entering the attraction. Avoid wearing sleeveless clothing at the mosque.
- Remove your shoes: Please remove your shoes before entering the Hagia Sophia. It is a sacred site, actively used as a mosque in the present day.
- Book Guided tours: It is best to book Hagia Sophia guided tours to get a deeper insight into the history and cultural significance of the mosque.
- Avoid visiting on Fridays: The Hagia Sophia remains closed to non-worshippers during prayer hours and noon on Fridays. Please avoid visiting the attraction during these hours.
- Plan a day trip: Sultanahmet Square has several attractions close to one another. You can plan a day trip and visit the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Museum, and Blue Mosque.
- Matbah Ottoman Palace Cuisine (0.3 km away): Expect a diverse array of flavorful meat, vegetable, and rice-based dishes, often featuring aromatic spices and herbs in this authentic Turkish restaurant.
- Sultanahmet Fish House (0.4 km away): This restaurant specializes in fresh seafood dishes. Enjoy a variety of grilled, fried, and marinated fish and seafood options, along with traditional Turkish mezes and salads.
- Fuego Restaurant (0.3 km away): This restaurant offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Turkish cuisines with a contemporary twist. Indulge in dishes like grilled meats, fresh salads, and flavorful mezes, all served in a stylish and modern setting.
- Beyzade Restaurant (0.5 km away): This restaurant serves traditional Turkish cuisine with an emphasis on grilled meats and kebabs. Sample a variety of succulent meat dishes, accompanied by freshly baked bread, salads, and savory sauces.
- Deraliye Ottoman Cuisine Restaurant (0.3 km away): This eatery specializes in recreating authentic Ottoman recipes using traditional cooking methods and ingredients. Here, you can enjoy classic Ottoman dishes such as lamb stew, stuffed vegetables, and decadent desserts.
- Budget stays
Sarnic Hotel (0.3 km away)
Cheers Hostel (0.4 km away)
Hotel Sultan’s Inn (0.5 km away) - Mid-range hotels
Dersaadat Hotel (0.4 km away)
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel (0.3 km away)
Royal Hotel Hagia Sophia Old Istanbul City (0.5 km away) - Luxury stays
Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at Sultanahmet (0.2 km away)
Hagia Sophia Mansions Istanbul (0.3 km away)
Dosso Dossi Hotel Old City (0.6 km away)
Explore beyond Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace
The Topkapi Palace is a large complex of courtyards and buildings, and a stunning example of Islamic art and architecture. The Palace also contains an impressive collection of manuscripts, old weapons, and jewels.
Explore Topkapi Palace
Basilica Cistern
Built in the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is an underground water storage system. The structure is supported by 336 columns and is a perfect example of how the water system worked during the Byzantine reign.
Explore Basilica Cistern
Bosphorus Cruises
You can cruise along the Bosphorus Strait, straddling Europe and Asia, and enjoy Istanbul’s famous landmarks from the water. You can also opt for Bosphorus dinner cruises to enjoy a delicious meal on your sightseeing cruise.
Explore Bosphorus Cruises
Dolmabahce Palace
The Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul served as the administrative center of the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century. The palace features stunning interiors, crystal chandeliers, and gold embossed artworks, and is designed in a blend of Baroque, Ottoman, and Rococo architectural styles.
Explore Dolmabahce PalaceFrequently asked questions about Hagia Sophia
Do I need tickets to visit the Hagia Sophia?
Yes, you need to purchase tickets to enter the Hagia Sophia. We recommend booking Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets to bypass long lines on the day of your visit. If you are a history and culture enthusiast, you can book guided tours or combo tickets for a hassle-free and informative touring experience.
Where can I buy Hagia Sophia tickets?
You can purchase Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets online. It is best to book tickets in advance to reserve your spot so that you do not miss your attraction.
Can I buy Hagia Sophia tours online?
Yes, you can purchase Hagia Sophia historian-guided tours online. We recommend you book Hagia Sophia guided tours online because online ticket bookings ensure that your spot is reserved in advance. You may also chance upon great deals and combo offers when booking tours online.
Are there any discounts on Hagia Sophia tours?
Yes, if you book Hagia Sophia tickets online, you can enjoy discounted prices and combo deals. These combo tours start from €59 and include access to the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and more.
Does Hagia Sophia offer an audio guide?
Yes, if you purchase Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets, you can enjoy a self-paced, multilingual, audio-guided tour of the mosque. If you book guided tours or Hagia Sophia combo tickets, an English-speaking tour guide will accompany you to share interesting stories about how the past Orthodox church came to be a mosque.
Which Hagia Sophia tour should I buy?
If you are short on time, book the Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets. For an in-depth tour, you can choose the historian-guided tour of Hagia Sophia. If you have a few hours to spare, you can choose the combo Hagia Sophia guided tours that offer access to important monuments like Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern, and also include a 90-minute Bosphorus Cruise depending on your ticket options.
What is included in my Hagia Sophia tours?
Book Hagia Sophia guided tours to enjoy touring the impressive mosque with an English-speaking tour guide. The guide will share interesting stories and anecdotes to familiarize you with the history of the mosque.
Do you need a tour guide for Hagia Sophia?
It is better to book Hagia Sophia guided tours because a tour guide can offer you insights and interesting stories about the history, architecture, and cultural significance of the monument. The guide can also ensure that you follow the rules and regulations while visiting the mosque. You can also explore the lesser-known hidden corners and secret gems inside the Hagia Sophia with a tour guide.
How much does it cost to visit Hagia Sophia?
Depending on whether you are purchasing historian-guided Hagia Sophia tours or combo Hagia Sophia tickets, they can range between €31 to €36 to €59.
How long is the Hagia Sophia guided tour?
The Hagia Sophia guided tour lasts for almost 2 hours. You can roam the monument for as long as you wish even after your historian-guided tour ends.
When does the Hagia Sophia open?
The Hagia Sophia remains open to the public daily throughout the year. It is only closed to non-worshippers during prayer hours on Fridays.
How to reach the Hagia Sophia?
The best way to reach the Hagia Sophia is to catch the 28, 32, BN1, or EMI to reach Sultanahmet Square. You can also catch either the Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) or Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze) train to reach Marmaray Square or Sultanahmet Square. The M2 metro and the T1 tram also reach Sultanahmet Square. The Hagia Sophia is a short walk from the Square.
When is the best time to visit Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia is open daily. You can visit it any time of the year, however, please avoid visiting it during prayer calls and noon prayers on Fridays. June to August is the busiest time of the year, attracting tourists from all over the world. Arrive early in the morning to soak in the relatively quiet atmosphere at Hagia Sophia.
What should I wear to the Hagia Sophia?
Once known as the Hagia Sophia Museum, the present-day Hagia Sophia is a mosque, so please wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Do not wear shorts or strappy tops. Headscarves are available at the entrance for free, and you must wrap them around your head before entering the sacred monument.
Is Hagia Sophia wheelchair accessible?
Yes, visitors with limited mobility can enter the Hagia Sophia. There are ramps at the west corner of the building at the intersection of Alemdar and Ayasofya Meydani.
Is there a locker room at the Hagia Sophia?
While there are no locker rooms inside the Hagia Sophia, you can use the one at Sirkeci train station, 2 tram stops from Sultanahmet to store your belongings.
Can I enter Hagia Sophia with shoes on?
Yes, with the new visiting area, you can enter the Hagia Sophia with your shoes on. However, you have to remove your shoes if you want to go up to the second floor or the inner chambers.
Can I carry food inside the Hagia Sophia?
We advise you not to carry food inside the Hagia Sophia since it is a sacred prayer site. It would be disrespectful to drop crumbs or litter the inside.
Can I click pictures at Hagia Sophia?
Photography is allowed inside the Hagia Sophia, however, please refrain from clicking pictures of people who are praying. Flash photography is not allowed on the premises.
Are there any attractions near Hagia Sophia?
You can plan a day trip to Sultanahmet and visit the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, and the Galata Tower. They are quite near each other.
Is it worth visiting Hagia Sophia?
Once a church and now a mosque, Hagia Sophia has witnessed numerous eras and dynasties. As a former church, the present-day mosque is an essential symbol of the coexistence of several religions. The Byzantine and Ottoman artworks and mosaics inside its walls are remnants of its glorious days. The building’s design is breathtaking with a massive central dome surrounded by towering ornate columns.
Millions love heading out with us
Andreea-roxana
oct., 2024
It was a beautiful experience! We entered immediately with the skip the line ticket! I didn't use the audio guide because I didn't know how to install it, but it's not necessary, Hagia Sofia speaks for itself! Andreea 💋 xoxo
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
George
United Statessept., 2024
+ 2 more
Hagia Sofia is good experience. An ancient orthodox Christian Church Converted to a Mosque. Since we have the skip the line tickets we avoided standing in the long lines in the middle of the day under the hot sun. We are skeptical about the tickets in the biggining since we can not download tickets due to WiFi issues. But it worked well. Now I look forward Headout for my future travel plans. An app may be much beneficial for the travelers.
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
Marta
août, 2024
+ 2 more
Skip the line tickets were the best thing we could do, it saved us hours of waiting in long queues under the sun. The group was quite small which make it easy to hear our guide. Our guide was great, he spoke very good English and explained everything in a very interesting way. I really liked that he also told us about Turkish history, culture, current situation in the country etc., I found it very interesting. Hagia Sofia was amazing and breathtaking. Basilica cistern was a big surprise, it's a beautiful place worth visiting. The time given in each place was enough for exploration and pictures. The tour overall took 4 hours. I highly recommend this tour when in Istanbul.
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Maruen
Italyaoût, 2024
Arda, our guide, was awesome even tho it was sometimes hard to hear every word he said (to be fair every place we saw was quite crowded).
Also the skip the line feature is super useful!
There is enough time to take pics and buy water or food during the tour
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Elisa
août, 2024
+ 2 more
Arda did a great job! It always was interessting to listen to him. Topkapi palace was stunning and we liked this place a lot.
The schedule was clever as we started at the palace and had time for lunch afterwards.
Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Blue Mosque Guided Tours with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Abboud
Australiajuil., 2024
Overall it was a great experience and our tour guide was super knowledgeable with the history and stories related to Hagia Sophia. We were running behind schedule due to Istanbul traffic, however customer support and the tour guide from Headout were super helpful and waited for us at the 11th hour. Highly recommended and will do it again when we visit next.
Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Borhene
nov., 2021
Great experience with great guides. I asked the support team for a help with whatsApp and they were so reactive. appreciated
Istanbul Museum Pass: Guided Tour + Skip the Line
Eleonora
août, 2022
El tour está muy bien organizado. La información es la adecuada y el tiempo destinado a cada actividad es óptimo. El restaurante muy bueno y el paseo por el Bosforo una maravilla, tanto el paseo como las delicatessen servidas a bordo.
Istanbul in a Day Tour: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar, Cruise & More