Hagia Sophia Tickets | Skip-the-Line Access & Guided Tours

Tickets

4.4(0)

Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

Breeze past the lines at Hagia Sophia and explore with an audio guide for a stress-free visit.

Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and dive straight into Hagia Sophia’s fascinating blend of Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman grandeur, led by a downloadable multilingual audio guide.
Why choose this: Forget the long wait and get expert audio insights as you explore Hagia Sophia’s rich history at your own pace.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with options like a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with an English-speaking expert, skip-the-line entry, and audio guides for the Basilica Cistern, guided tours of the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Old Town, plus a handy map of Istanbul.

Breeze past the lines at Hagia Sophia and explore with an audio guide for a stress-free visit.

Everything you get: Skip the ticketing queues and dive straight into Hagia Sophia’s fascinating blend of Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman grandeur, led by a downloadable multilingual audio guide.
Why choose this: Forget the long wait and get expert audio insights as you explore Hagia Sophia’s rich history at your own pace.
Upgrades: Enhance your visit with options like a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with an English-speaking expert, skip-the-line entry, and audio guides for the Basilica Cistern, guided tours of the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Old Town, plus a handy map of Istanbul.

Inclusions

Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
Multilingual audio guide (based on option selected)
1/1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia (based on option selected)
Expert English-speaking guide (based on option selected)
Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern (based on option selected)
Multilingual audio guide for Basilica Cistern (based on option selected)
1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque with entry (based on option selected)
30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern (based on option selected)
30-min Hippodrome & Old Town walking tour (based on option selected)
Istanbul Old Town map (based on option selected)

Exclusions

Skip the security line

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.
This ticket gives you access to the visiting area and upper gallery, not the prayer area downstairs
During peak seasons, lines may form at security checkpoints. Your ticket does not grant priority access through the security check lines. In the high season, it might take up to 30 minutes to get in.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided tour

Combos

4.1(0)

Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

Explore Istanbul’s Big Three — Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & the Basilica Cistern — with one flexible, skip-the-line combo ticket.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Explore the mosaics, domes, and quiet of the Upper Gallery at Hagia Sophia with ease. The included audio guide takes you through it all—from emperor coronations to the rich history of the place.

Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Skip long wait lines and enter the Harem's ornate chambers at the Topkapi Palace. Catch the jewel-covered Topkapi Dagger and the Spoonmaker’s Diamond, all with your personal audio storyteller in tow.

Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Descend under Istanbul's grounds and marvel at ancient columns, echoing vaults, and Medusa’s icy stares. Take in this experience with an added bonus of skipping long ticket lines and a 7+ language audio guide.

Why choose this combo: 1 ticket, no transfers, no commute, no stress. All three landmarks are just minutes apart. Perfect combo if you want to save money and enjoy quick skip-the-line access at every stop.

Explore Istanbul’s Big Three — Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & the Basilica Cistern — with one flexible, skip-the-line combo ticket.

Inclusions Basilica Cistern

Skip-the-line entry
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish

Hagia Sophia

Skip-the-line entry
Access to Hagia Sophia's Upper Gallery visiting area
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish

Topkapi Palace

Skip-the-line entry
Access to Topkapi Palace Harem (Royal Apartments & Imperial Hall)
Access to Topkapi Palace Museum (Treasury & Sacred Relics Room)
Audio guide downloadable in English, Arabic, French, German, & Spanish

Basilica Cistern

Tip: Follow the full loop before heading out—the Medusa heads are tucked away at the far end and worth a close look from every angle.
Skip-the-line tickets are very helpful, but all visitors must go through standard security screening.
For a more peaceful visit, go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s less crowded. The space feels a lot more serene then!
The lighting is kept low to preserve the atmosphere. Switch to night mode or steady your phone to capture clearer photos.
Make sure you wear shoes with good grip to avoid slipping in some areas.

Hagia Sophia

Tip: Security checks are a must at the venue. During summer months, checks can take extra time with queues stretching into the courtyard.
Only the Upper Gallery area is open to visitors, while the main floor is reserved for worshippers.
You cannot enter the mosque during prayer times, so plan your visit around the daily schedule.
The Hagia Sophia is closed to tourists on Fridays from noon to mid-afternoon for prayer.
Modest dress is mandatory for all, so make sure you wear clothes that cover your head, shoulders and knees. Headscarves are available at the entrance for women.

Topkapi Palace

Tip: Don’t miss the Harem—it holds the palace’s most intricate art and architecture.
Visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon hours to avoid long security lines.
Skip-the-line tickets bypass ticket queues but not security checks. Checks normally take 30–40 minutes from June to August.
Some rooms in the Harem do not allow photography, so keep an eye out for signs.
The Spoonmaker’s Diamond is dimly lit. Pro tip: catch the reflections on the wall to view it clearly.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Audio guide

Combos

4.2(0)

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

Explore 2 of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks with a single ticket & skip the crowds.

Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Get a quick entry to the Basilica Cistern with the skip-the-line tickets to explore at your own pace, with insights from an audio guide available in 7 languages.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Get a fast-track entry to Hagia Sophia. Access the Upper Gallery and explore key highlights with an included audio guide.

Why choose this combo: See Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with one discounted combo ticket—two iconic sites, one great deal, just 110 meters apart.

Explore 2 of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks with a single ticket & skip the crowds.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Get a fast-track entry to Hagia Sophia. Access the Upper Gallery and explore key highlights with an included audio guide.

Why choose this combo: See Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with one discounted combo ticket—two iconic sites, one great deal, just 110 meters apart.

Inclusions Basilica Cistern

Skip-the-line entry
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish & Turkish

Hagia Sophia

Skip-the-line entry
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian & Spanish
Exclusive access to the Upper Gallery visiting area

Basilica Cistern

Tip: The Basilica Cistern gets busy quickly post mid-morning. For a calmer visit, aim for late afternoon or early evening.
The Cistern stays cool and damp year-round, with slippery floors. Wear warm clothes and shoes with a good grip to prevent yourself from slipping.
Don’t leave without seeing the Medusa heads. They’re tucked away at the far end, and worth viewing from every angle!

Hagia Sophia

Tip: Security checks are mandatory and wait times during peak hours (June to August) can reach up to 60 minutes.
The ground floor is designated for prayers, while the second floor is open to visitors.
The tour is not wheelchair accessible.
During the five daily prayers, certain areas are restricted to tourists. Additionally, Hagia Sophia is closed on Fridays from noon to 2:30pm for the Friday prayer.
Please dress modestly—your shoulders, arms, and knees should be covered. Women will also need to cover their heads. Scarves are available at the entrance if you forget to bring yours.
Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash or tripods.
Large bags, backpacks, food or drinks are not allowed inside the Hagia Sophia.
Hagia Sophia is under renovation, therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

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Audio guide

Guided Tours

4.3(0)

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

Enjoy expert storytelling, skip-the-line access, and a 5+ language audio guide for 3 of Istanbul’s most iconic sites.

Everything you get at Blue Mosque: Skip the long lines and head straight to the Blue Mosque’s grand prayer hall. Get insights into this stained-glass-lit monument, with an English-speaking guide and an audio guide.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Access the Upper Gallery of Hagia Sophia—an area once reserved for royalty. Avoid the wait and admire its breath-taking mosaics at your own pace, while enjoying a detailed audio guide.

Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Take an underground walk into the Basilica Cistern’s cool and quiet spaces. Skip long wait lines, and walk in to admire the marble columns and the famous Medusa heads with an expert guide.

Why choose this combo: In just 4 hours, visit three of Istanbul’s top landmarks in one day, with one easy ticket. Skip the long lines with this flexible ticket and explore each site with expert English-speaking guides and immersive audio guides.

Enjoy expert storytelling, skip-the-line access, and a 5+ language audio guide for 3 of Istanbul’s most iconic sites.

Inclusions Basilica Cistern

1-hour guided tour of Basilica Cistern
Skip-the-line entry
Expert English-speaking guide
Audio app downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish

Hagia Sophia

1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
Skip-the-line entry
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry to Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery visiting area
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish

Blue Mosque

Entry and 1-hour guided tour to the Blue Mosque
Expert English-speaking guide
Skip-the-line entry

Basilica Cistern

Tip: Be sure to walk to the far end of the cistern to see the famous Medusa heads—many visitors miss them by turning back too soon.
Floors can be slick in places due to moisture, so wear stable footwear with good grip.
For a quieter, more serene experience, visit first thing in the morning or just before closing when crowds are less.
Skip-the-line tickets help cut down wait time. However, security screenings are compulsory for all visitors and will take time.

Hagia Sophia

Tip: Security checks can take up to an hour in summer (June–August), so plan your visits accordingly.
Only the Upper Gallery is open to visitors; the main prayer hall is reserved for worshippers and not accessible to visit.
Access is paused during daily prayers, so plan your visit between those times.
Tourist entry is paused every Friday from noon to around 2:30pm for weekly prayers.
Visitors are required to dress modestly – so please cover your head, shoulders and knees. Women are also required to wear scarves. If you forget to bring your own, there are scarves available at the entrance.

Blue Mosque

Tip: The Blue Mosque is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayers, so make sure you check local prayer times before visiting.
Visitors are required to dress modestly – so please cover your head, shoulders and knees. Women are also required to wear scarves. If you forget to bring your own, there are scarves available at the entrance.
Shoes must be removed before entering. Make sure you bring a small bag to carry them.

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.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended validity

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

4 hr.

Guided Tours

4.5(0)

Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

Join an expert English-speaking guide to skip the lines and explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia.

Everything you get: Bypass the long ticket queues and step into Hagia Sophia for a one-hour guided tour, where your licensed English-speaking guide will unveil the secrets behind its mosaics, massive dome, and centuries of imperial worship.
Why choose this: Make the most of your visit—skip the wait and discover the layers of history with stories only an expert can tell.
Upgrades: Enhance your tour with options like multilingual audio guides, headsets for clearer commentary, guided tours of the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and Old Town walks, skip-the-line entry and tours of Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace, and a detailed Istanbul Old Town map for exploring more.

Join an expert English-speaking guide to skip the lines and explore the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia.

Everything you get: Bypass the long ticket queues and step into Hagia Sophia for a one-hour guided tour, where your licensed English-speaking guide will unveil the secrets behind its mosaics, massive dome, and centuries of imperial worship.
Why choose this: Make the most of your visit—skip the wait and discover the layers of history with stories only an expert can tell.
Upgrades: Enhance your tour with options like multilingual audio guides, headsets for clearer commentary, guided tours of the Blue Mosque, Hippodrome and Old Town walks, skip-the-line entry and tours of Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace, and a detailed Istanbul Old Town map for exploring more.

Inclusions

1/1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia (based on option selected)
Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
Expert licensed English-speaking guide
Multilingual audio guide (based on option selected)
Headset (based on option selected)
1-hour guided tour of Blue Mosque with entry (based on option selected)
30-min Hippodrome & Old Town walking tour (based on option selected)
Istanbul Old Town map (based on option selected)
20/30-min guided tour of Basilica Cistern with skip-the-line entry (based on option selected)
1-hour guided tour of Topkapi Palace with skip-the-line entry (based on option selected)
Audio app in 8 languages (based on option selected)

You can bypass the ticket lines, but the security check is mandatory.
Be prepared for security checks; expect up to 60 minutes of wait time during the peak season (June to August).
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
Get skip-the-line tickets or arrive early, especially during peak tourist months, to avoid long lines.
The ground floor is designated for prayers, while the second floor is open to visitors.
During the five daily prayers, certain areas are restricted to tourists. Additionally, Hagia Sophia is closed on Fridays from noon to 2:30pm for the Friday prayer.
Dress modestly—cover shoulders, arms, and knees. Women need to cover their heads. Scarves are available at the entrance.
Photography is allowed, but avoid using flash or tripods.
Large bags, backpacks, and tripods are not permitted; use a small bag.
No food or drinks are allowed inside the Hagia Sophia.
Hagia Sophia is under renovation, therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.
In addition to midday and afternoon Bosphorus cruises, you can also opt for a special 6pm evening cruise, available from April to October.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

1 hr. - 3 hr.

Guided Tours

4.2(0)

Istanbul: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Tickets

Discover Istanbul’s treasures like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Old Town in one expert-guided tour.

Everything you get: Join a 1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia, followed by a 1-hour visit to Blue Mosque to see Iznik tilework and towering minarets with an expert. Wander the Hippodrome’s ancient chariot-racing grounds and the historic Old Town with a 30-minute walking tour.
Why choose this: Go beyond the basics—expert stories, skip-the-line entry, and a complete Old Town experience in one seamless adventure.
Upgrades: Enhance your journey with a 30-minute guided tour of Basilica Cistern, complete with skip-the-line access.

Discover Istanbul’s treasures like Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Old Town in one expert-guided tour.

Everything you get: Join a 1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia, followed by a 1-hour visit to Blue Mosque to see Iznik tilework and towering minarets with an expert. Wander the Hippodrome’s ancient chariot-racing grounds and the historic Old Town with a 30-minute walking tour.
Why choose this: Go beyond the basics—expert stories, skip-the-line entry, and a complete Old Town experience in one seamless adventure.
Upgrades: Enhance your journey with a 30-minute guided tour of Basilica Cistern, complete with skip-the-line access.

Inclusions

1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
Expert licensed English-speaking guide
1-hour guided tour of Blue Mosque with entry
30-min Hippodrome & Old Town walking tour
Istanbul Old Town map
30-min guided tour of Basilica Cistern with skip-the-line entry (based on option selected)

The prayer area on the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.
Strict dress code: 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.
This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
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€).
While you can breeze through the ticket lines, security screening is standard for all guests. Be prepared for wait times of up to 60 minutes during peak travel periods.
Hagia Sophia is under renovation, therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.
Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommended to visit after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
Hagia Sophia is not accessible for wheelchair users.
Basilica Cistern is wheelchair accessible.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

3 hr. - 4 hr.

City Cards

4.2(0)

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.

Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.

Build your perfect Istanbul adventure by picking 2 to 9 attractions, from iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace to cultural gems like a hammam or dervish show.

Everything you get: Access to top landmarks like Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Dolmabahçe Palace (choose 2-4 based on your pass), guided tours including the Asian side walking tour and hop-on hop-off bus, cultural experiences like a Turkish bath or Dervish ceremony, a Blue Mosque tour, Bosphorus dinner cruise, a 5-ride transportation card, multilingual audio guides for all attractions, a digital guidebook, and a city map to navigate it all.
Why choose this: Enjoy seamless access with one easy pass that covers guided tours, a Bosphorus cruise, and a 5-ride public transport card for getting around the city. Choose the Premium Pass to visit 4 attractions or go all in with the Deluxe Pass to unlock 9 of the city’s best, with all tickets delivered straight to your inbox.

Inclusions

Landmarks & Palaces: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, & Dolmabahce Palace (choose 2/4/9 depending on your pass tier)
Guided tours: Asian side walking tour & hop-on hop-off bus tour (based on your pass tier)
Cultural experiences: Turkish bath or hammam experience & Dervish ceremony (based on your pass tier)
Blue Mosque guided tour
Bosphorus dinner cruise
5-ride Istanbul transportation card
Multilingual audio guides for all attractions
Digital guidebook
City, tram, and metro map

Get the list of included attractions here.
All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
Your pass is valid for 7 consecutive days starting from the first time you use it.
You’re free to visit multiple attractions each day, but each attraction can only be accessed once with your pass.
Skip-the-line access is included, but security checks still apply at all venues.
The multilingual audio guides are available offline, so you don't have to rely on a spotty signal.
The included transport card can be used across trams, ferries, buses, and metros—no need to buy separate tickets, but make sure to validate your card at necessary stops.
The digital guidebook includes curated tips and navigation shortcuts between included attractions, helping you plan smarter and save time.
Access to the main prayer hall on the ground floor of the Hagia Sophia is restricted for tourists. You can only visit the upper floor visiting area.
The Asian side walking tour is one of the best ways to see a non-touristy, authentic side of Istanbul. It's slower-paced and culturally rich.
The upper deck of hop-on-hop-off buses offers the best views across the Bosphorus Bridge.
Choose traditional hammams for a more authentic experience.
Opt for evening Dervish sessions for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and sit closer to the front for a better view of the whirling ritual.
The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.

Your selected attraction tickets will be sent via email. If you’ve chosen the Deluxe Pass, you’ll receive tickets for all included experiences.
Show the PDF tickets on your phone, or print a physical copy if you prefer.
You can edit your chosen list of attractions anytime, and cancel your pass free of charge up to one day before your chosen start date.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

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Check availability

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided tour

Frequently 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.