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- Hagia Sophia
- Hagia Sophia Museum
- History
- Architecture
- Design
- Inside
- Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque
- 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)
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.
- 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.
Reviews
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4.5
6,449 ratings
4.4K
1.2K
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What our guests say
Ricardo
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was great. Very complete explanations. At all times told us how the visit would continue, times at each site etc. the visit was with headphones and micro which is much appreciated. Very punctual.
View original review in Spanish
Joshua
Apr 2025Verified booking
I finally got to visit the great Hagia Sophia. While getting to explore the upper level was a blessing, I don't understand why the lower level is off limits. Even the Blue Mosque is open to non-Muslims. If I had gotten to explore the lower level, my visit would have been perfect. This is not Headout's fault, but something that is on my mind.
Véronique
Apr 2025Verified booking
Thanks to the queue-cutting ticket, we were able to enter Saint Sophia easily. We visited the second floor, as the ground floor is a place of prayer. It's a place where Catholic and Muslim cultures meet. What to see
View original review in French
Alexander
Apr 2025Verified booking
I loved the incredible history and very detailed audio guide that was provided. The free roaming of the upper gallery really gave time to enjoy the architecture and artwork.
Inge
Mar 2025Verified booking
This is the third time I've visited the Hagia Sophia, the first time as a mosque. It's a shame that you can't see the dome from the center, i.e. from the first floor. But the visit is definitely worth it. Booking tickets in advance was an advantage, even if the crowds weren't that big in the morning.
View original review in German
Pierluigi
Mar 2025Verified booking
Audio guide easy to use and well descriptive. Too bad it lacks a reserved entrance or I didn't find it, but there was only one line to enter
View original review in Italian
Marta
Mar 2025Verified booking
We loved Hagia Sophia, it is beautiful in its aesthetics, its architecture and its history. But we had to wait in line anyway, about 25 minutes to get in.
View original review in Spanish
Maurizio
Mar 2025Verified booking
The tour to the Santa Sofía mosque was fantastic! Well organized from the ease of buying the ticket, to downloading the ticket to the smartphone, the audio guide in Italian..... Very well organized and the value for money unbeatable. I recommend
View original review in Italian
Kathi
Feb 2025Verified booking
This was a self-guided tour. Hagia Sophia is spectacular and the script was well paced and helpful. And we were able to avoid a very long line.
Ferri
Feb 2025Verified booking
Experience to be had here in Istanbul especially with the guide who took us through all the explanation necessary to understand the whole history up to the present day. Skip the line is essential to avoid long waits.
View original review in Italian
Stan-Filimon
Feb 2025Verified booking
The guide was very knowledgeable and nice. We didn't have to stay in line and that was a relief as there were hundreds of people waiting. I would definitely recommend and do it again.
Illouz-neuvillers
Apr 2025Verified booking
A sublime place. Adults and children were in awe
View original review in French
Jose
Apr 2025Verified booking
Avoidance of queues, although the price is excessive.
View original review in Spanish
Naveed
Apr 2025Verified booking
The art and the ease of buying the ticket
Alison
Apr 2025Verified booking
The Hagia Sophia is truely beautiful and Awe inspiring! Lived up to my expectations As I've waited years to visit!
Dallas
Feb 2025Verified booking
Very well organized. Very competent and friendly guide
View original review in French
Ross
Apr 2025Verified booking
Hussein was a fantastic guide - informative, relaxed, and hospitable. He took us through the 2 mosques and the cistern with practised ease - making for a comfortable and very enjoyable experience. The audio earpieces worked well and ensured our group could follow easily Hussein's excellent guidance. Hussein was also generous with answering extra questions and allowing group members to spend their own time at the sites and use the facilities. Overall, an excellent tour and well worth it.
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
It is nice, a touristic place to know about how 2 different cultures were combined. Having the skip the line was great to avoid the purchase tickets lane and then the line to go inside. They have a free audio guide in Hagia Sophia, with free internet so don't buy any additional service for it, just make sure you bring your earphones.
Samiya
Apr 2025Verified booking
Murat was a really good guide, well prepared and clear. We enjoyed both tours of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia with him. For the future, we only recommend to use a microphone or to provide headphones if the group is big so that we can better follow the explanations while being on crowded places.
Marcel
Apr 2025Verified booking
There was no mention of a fast-track ticket. You just save yourself the trouble of buying a ticket on site. You still have to join the queue. A waiting time of around 30 minutes is not fast-track entry after all. Consolation: it's worth it though. The Hagia Sophia is well worth a visit.
View original review in German
Rohaizad
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was well planned. Hussein our guide was great, knowledgeable and friendly. The pace and presentation was very good and clear.
Elena
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide , Al, was very knowledgeable and was good at managing a group of about 40 people on a really peak season day.
View original review in Italian
Markus
Apr 2025Verified booking
Luckily we booked the tickets online beforehand and were there straight away in the morning. We had to wait about 20 minutes. After a short security check, we went straight into the mosque. Unfortunately, only the upper part is still open to visitors, but it was very interesting. The public toilets outside were very clean.
View original review in German
Rodolfo
Apr 2025Verified booking
All beautiful, especially Cistern and St. Sophia Mosque which, however, due to earthquake ilb23 April, we could see today 24 April. Courtesy and professionalism of the Guide. Thank you
View original review in Italian
Irene
Apr 2025Verified booking
We feared bad surprises after reading some negative comments online, but in Istanbul everything went perfectly . Precise and punctual organization, directions are given to the meeting point and via app everything is very convenient and at hand. Pleasant tour, our guide, Ali (I unfortunately do not remember his full name), was a nice guy, knowledgeable and very helpful. We had a great time with him, the explanation given was just the right length, neither too short nor too long, and the time flew by. Very convenient the skip-the-line ticket, considering the crowds of tourists.
View original review in Italian
Combos
Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
from €131.40
€124.44
5% off
Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern with one all-access ticket, complete with audio guides and skip-the-line entry at each.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Walk straight into Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, gaze up at golden mosaics from the Upper Gallery, and hear the echoes of Byzantine and Ottoman empires in every arch.
- Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Enter Topkapi Palace without the wait and wander through the Harem’s ornate chambers. See treasures like the jewel-studded Topkapi Dagger and relics once guarded by sultans.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Step into the shadowy Basilica Cistern, where flickering light dances across ancient columns, echoing vaults, and Medusa’s icy stare beneath the water.
- Why choose this: With the 3-in-1 combo, save money and skip the hassle of separate bookings. All three sites are just a five-minute walk apart—no transfers, no stress. Download the audio guides on your phone and dive into the stories in your own time and your preferred language.
Explore Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern with one all-access ticket, complete with audio guides and skip-the-line entry at each.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Walk straight into Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, gaze up at golden mosaics from the Upper Gallery, and hear the echoes of Byzantine and Ottoman empires in every arch.
- Everything you get at Topkapi Palace: Enter Topkapi Palace without the wait and wander through the Harem’s ornate chambers. See treasures like the jewel-studded Topkapi Dagger and relics once guarded by sultans.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Step into the shadowy Basilica Cistern, where flickering light dances across ancient columns, echoing vaults, and Medusa’s icy stare beneath the water.
- Why choose this: With the 3-in-1 combo, save money and skip the hassle of separate bookings. All three sites are just a five-minute walk apart—no transfers, no stress. Download the audio guides on your phone and dive into the stories in your own time and your preferred language.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry
- Audio app for iOS and Android 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 in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish
Topkapi Palace
- Skip-the-line entry
- Access to Topkapi Palace Harem, including Royal Apartments & the Imperial Hall
- Access to Topkapi Palace Museum, including the Treasury and Sacred Relics Room
- Audio guide in English, Arabic, French, German, & Spanish
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Make sure to follow the full path before heading to the exit. The Medusa heads are at the far end.
- Skip-the-line access saves time, but all guests must still pass through standard security screening.
- For a quieter visit, aim for early morning or late afternoon when crowds are smaller and the space feels more serene.
- Surfaces can be slick in spots. Choose footwear that’s stable and slip-resistant.
- The lighting is low to preserve the mood; switch to night mode or steady your phone to capture clearer shots.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Security checks are mandatory for all visitors. During summer, the queue can stretch beyond the courtyard.
- Only the upper level is accessible to tourists. The ground floor prayer halls are reserved for worshippers.
- You cannot enter the mosque during prayer times, so plan your visit around the daily schedule.
- On Fridays, tourist entry is closed from noon to mid-afternoon to accommodate Friday prayers.
- Modest attire is a must; scarves are provided at the entrance if you don't bring your own.
Topkapi Palace
- Tip: Some of the most beautiful tilework in the palace is housed inside the Harem. Make sure to stop by.
- The skip-the-line tickets let you bypass ticketing lines. Security checks are mandatory and take about 30 to 40 minutes between June and August.
- Security lines can stretch long in the morning. Visit in the late afternoon hours or right when it opens for a smoother entry.
- Photography is not allowed in many of the Harem rooms and the Treasury. Check the signs before taking pictures.
- The Spoonmaker’s Diamond, one of the palace’s highlights, is often behind glass in a dim room. Look at the reflection on the wall to view it clearly.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.2
6,101 ratings
3.5K
1.3K
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329
399
What our guests say
Alexandra
Apr 2025Verified booking
The jewels and rooms of the palace are worth seeing. Well maintained gardens. On the downside, there should be a limitation of capacity by time slots because the palace was overcrowded and you could not enjoy the visit calmly and quietly.
View original review in Spanish
Di
Apr 2025Verified booking
Topkapi Palace is beautiful full of history and pageantry. Too bad part of it was closed for construction but it was still fascinating to visit. It was very easy to book with Headout and I liked the organization on the spot. Very accurate and punctual.
View original review in Italian
Martin
Apr 2025Verified booking
We made a combined booking with Fastlane. For Hagia Sophia and Cisterna Basilica, the tickets we sent were immediately our valid tickets. Worked perfectly. Both sights were very beautiful and interesting. At Hagia Sophia, as a non-Muslim you "only" get to the first level and can look down into the whole mosque. Also very impressive, but not really explained beforehand. At the Topkapi Palace there was only one reservation in the mailing, which is easy to overlook, and we only noticed in front of gate 2 (where you need real tickets). We then had to go back to an agency outside Gate 1 so that we could finally get in with a tour lady. It worked but with a certain loss of time. The palace itself was huge and very beautiful. Be sure to book a ticket with harem access (as we had), this part is the highlight of the palace. All in all, a great day with lots of wonderful impressions.
View original review in German
José
Feb 2025Verified booking
I recommend visiting it but I think the price is a bit high because there are many more mosques and monuments to visit, but you can not leave stambul without visiting it.
View original review in Spanish
Julie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very easy to access, beautiful historic building amongst a busy city, highly recommend visiting
CARLOS
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fast access without queues and possibility of Audioguide in Spanish offline
View original review in Spanish
Therese
Mar 2025Verified booking
It is really worth seeing, impressive and amazing.
View original review in German
Iris
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything worked well. Sights were very interesting.
View original review in German
Martin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Just as it says when you buy them. No queues.
View original review in Spanish
Schievano
Mar 2025Verified booking
Beautiful!!! We purchased tickets online at a cheaper price.
View original review in Italian
Mustansir
Feb 2025Verified booking
Verry nice and good time was very simple to meet up
Andrzej
Apr 2025Verified booking
You can buy tickets at the kiosk cheaper (i.e. 25€ for Hagia Sophia), but you need to wait 20-30 minutes in the queue. With this (Headout) online ticket you can go directly to... other queue for people with tickets. It's going prety fast thou. General experience is OK, but there should be option to download audio guide to your device, because now you need internert connection to use it. You can try to load audio guide when you have internet access, like in a caffee or in a hotel, but probably page will expire and yo need to load it again, so you need internet. Therefor I couldn't use audio guide in Topkapia palace.
simona
Apr 2025Verified booking
The queue jumping at the basilica cistern was' great, for hagia sophia there is a queue to be counted for the entrance but still it was' worth it Recommended!!!
View original review in Italian
Plamena
Apr 2025Verified booking
Easy to book. Very clear instructions from the guide in Topkapi, which helps not to miss the Harem and the incredible collections. Jump the queue ticket saved us waiting hours to enter. The experience in Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Balisica were totally different and absolutely awesome.
Donna
Apr 2025Verified booking
Thr queue was way to long so booking online was great. We did have help to do the online booking by one of the ladies working there. The cistern was amazing. The history of Istanbul is one to behold. Loved it
Carme
Apr 2025Verified booking
In the Cistern the fast access worked perfectly. In Hagia Sophia we had to wait in a long queue for the security check, you can't skip it. In Topkapi everything worked quite well but the group was too big and you could not hear the guide, you would need a microphone. Otherwise, the audio guides are ok but if you don't have internet, you have to download them with wifi, before going to the monuments, you would have to indicate it in the App.
View original review in Spanish
James
Apr 2025Verified booking
Basilica and hagia sofia experiences great. topkapi guide was completely disorganised. too many clients to shepherd through. couldn't see him, not explained to us that we needed a paper ticket too. too many crammed into the harem as we had all arrived together. we left topkapi palace quickly without looking around as we were so angry and irritated about the situation
Nadia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Quick access to enter without having to line up for long and in huge crowds. Self paced and tailored to my own interests. Informative
Iliescu
Apr 2025Verified booking
The Palace is amazing and very interesting to discover. Booking the tickets by the app is the best thing ever. The thing not so great is when you loose the conection to audioguide.
monica
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ottima assistenza. Non si apriva PDF di un biglietto e via mail ci hanno risposto e risolto il problema in pochissimi minuti
Julieta
Apr 2025Verified booking
It is very convenient not to have to get the tickets especially at times when there is a long line - we were there during Easter week, there were many people but we could do everything without any problem - the palace is advisable to do it early in the morning - Hagia Sophia from 15 hs - the cistern between 16 and 17 is quiet to enter especially with these tickets.
View original review in Spanish
Monica
Apr 2025Verified booking
Nuestra experiencia fue buena. Lastima que es Santa Sofia nuestra audioguia no fue bien recibida. Se escuchaba muy mal y nos costó entender. En la Cisterna tuvimos que retroceder hasta la entrada y obtener clave: en ningun lugar estaba a la vista dicha clave y nadie nos informó. Despues de varios intentos pudinos escuchar el audio: excelente recorrido.
Ajla
Apr 2025Verified booking
We had an easy entrance with the skip the line tickets, and an overall amazing experience inside of the topkapi palace. Would highly recommend.
Dermot
Apr 2025Verified booking
The palace and harem were very interesting and enjoyable and well laid out. It was disappointing that I could not play the guide offered by the tour operator nand the Palace Tour was active on the MizeKart app
Melissa
Apr 2025Verified booking
The venues are amazing on their own. It was very nice to walk right in to the Basilica Cistern while many folks waited in a long line to obtain entry tickets. The security line for the Hagia Sophia was as long as the line to obtain entry tickets...about a firty minute wait for each. Since we purchased our tickets online, we only had to wait in the security line. Note that we were unaware of the evening hours for the Basilica Cistern. Advertising that may help ease some crowding by giving those who are staying in Istanbul an opportunity to visit when the cruise shop crowds are gone.
Combos
Combo (Save 9%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
from €71.50
€64.98
9% off
Save big with this time-saving combo that covers Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern—two must-sees, one booking, zero hassle.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Slip beneath the city into Istanbul’s iconic Basilica Cistern. Skip the lines and explore with a multilingual audio guide app.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Bypass the ticket lines and head straight into Hagia Sophia’s iconic halls. Includes exclusive Upper Gallery access and an audio guide in 5 languages.
- Why choose this: Just 110 meters apart, these landmarks are right next to each other. From sunlit mosaics to ancient marble columns, get a crash course in Istanbul’s layered history, and explore at your own pace with full flexibility and zero scheduling stress.
Save big with this time-saving combo that covers Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern—two must-sees, one booking, zero hassle.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Slip beneath the city into Istanbul’s iconic Basilica Cistern. Skip the lines and explore with a multilingual audio guide app.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Bypass the ticket lines and head straight into Hagia Sophia’s iconic halls. Includes exclusive Upper Gallery access and an audio guide in 5 languages.
- Why choose this: Just 110 meters apart, these landmarks are right next to each other. From sunlit mosaics to ancient marble columns, get a crash course in Istanbul’s layered history, and explore at your own pace with full flexibility and zero scheduling stress.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry
- Audio app for iOS and Android in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish
Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry
- Entry to Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery visiting area
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Crowds build up fast after mid-morning, especially when cruise ships are in port. Try visiting in the late afternoon or early evening for a quieter experience.
- Your ticket lets you skip the long lines, but you’ll still need to go through the security check.
- Even in summer, the air inside is cool and damp; bring a light layer to stay comfortable.
- Footwear matters; choose shoes with a good grip to avoid slipping on the wet stone floor.
- The entrance has a ramp, and a platform lift is available at the exit, but the inside has uneven flooring. Bring along a companion to stroll around with ease.
- Bluetooth headphones do not function properly underground, so opt for wired ones if using an audio guide.
- Flash photography is not allowed.
- The Medusa heads are easy to miss. Follow the full path to the end, and view them from all angles.
- Pause in the central section and listen. The soft echoes and dripping water create a surreal ambiance.
- Look for reflections in the still water beneath the columns; they make for dramatic, moody photos.
- Give your eyes a moment to adjust to the low lighting before snapping pictures.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Be prepared for security checks; expect up to 60 minutes of wait time during the peak season (June to August).
- You can bypass the ticket lines, but the security check is mandatory.
- 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.
- 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 12pm 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.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.2
2,241 ratings
1.1K
750
164
88
98
What our guests say
Martin
Apr 2025Verified booking
We made a combined booking with Fastlane. For Hagia Sophia and Cisterna Basilica, the tickets we sent were immediately our valid tickets. Worked perfectly. Both sights were very beautiful and interesting. At Hagia Sophia, as a non-Muslim you "only" get to the first level and can look down into the whole mosque. Also very impressive, but not really explained beforehand. At the Topkapi Palace there was only one reservation in the mailing, which is easy to overlook, and we only noticed in front of gate 2 (where you need real tickets). We then had to go back to an agency outside Gate 1 so that we could finally get in with a tour lady. It worked but with a certain loss of time. The palace itself was huge and very beautiful. Be sure to book a ticket with harem access (as we had), this part is the highlight of the palace. All in all, a great day with lots of wonderful impressions.
View original review in German
José
Feb 2025Verified booking
I recommend visiting it but I think the price is a bit high because there are many more mosques and monuments to visit, but you can not leave stambul without visiting it.
View original review in Spanish
Julie
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very easy to access, beautiful historic building amongst a busy city, highly recommend visiting
CARLOS
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fast access without queues and possibility of Audioguide in Spanish offline
View original review in Spanish
Therese
Mar 2025Verified booking
It is really worth seeing, impressive and amazing.
View original review in German
Iris
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything worked well. Sights were very interesting.
View original review in German
Martin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Just as it says when you buy them. No queues.
View original review in Spanish
Schievano
Mar 2025Verified booking
Beautiful!!! We purchased tickets online at a cheaper price.
View original review in Italian
Bennet
Apr 2025Verified booking
As there is no free WiFi and tourists do not have mobile data at their disposal. Such sights should offer free WiFi.
View original review in German
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was great to have the skip the line option, we save time on that. There was not guide so we pay extra for nothing. Audio guide is ok... the audios wew too long and security keep asking you to move, so you can not hear and understand everything
Aberash
Apr 2025Verified booking
skip the line was a saver. We didn't have much time but purchasing the combo skip the line was perfectly timed. Enjoyed the ease of access and had plenty of time for other activities
Andrzej
Apr 2025Verified booking
You can buy tickets at the kiosk cheaper (i.e. 25€ for Hagia Sophia), but you need to wait 20-30 minutes in the queue. With this (Headout) online ticket you can go directly to... other queue for people with tickets. It's going prety fast thou. General experience is OK, but there should be option to download audio guide to your device, because now you need internert connection to use it. You can try to load audio guide when you have internet access, like in a caffee or in a hotel, but probably page will expire and yo need to load it again, so you need internet. Therefor I couldn't use audio guide in Topkapia palace.
simona
Apr 2025Verified booking
The queue jumping at the basilica cistern was' great, for hagia sophia there is a queue to be counted for the entrance but still it was' worth it Recommended!!!
View original review in Italian
Plamena
Apr 2025Verified booking
Easy to book. Very clear instructions from the guide in Topkapi, which helps not to miss the Harem and the incredible collections. Jump the queue ticket saved us waiting hours to enter. The experience in Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Balisica were totally different and absolutely awesome.
Donna
Apr 2025Verified booking
Thr queue was way to long so booking online was great. We did have help to do the online booking by one of the ladies working there. The cistern was amazing. The history of Istanbul is one to behold. Loved it
Carme
Apr 2025Verified booking
In the Cistern the fast access worked perfectly. In Hagia Sophia we had to wait in a long queue for the security check, you can't skip it. In Topkapi everything worked quite well but the group was too big and you could not hear the guide, you would need a microphone. Otherwise, the audio guides are ok but if you don't have internet, you have to download them with wifi, before going to the monuments, you would have to indicate it in the App.
View original review in Spanish
James
Apr 2025Verified booking
Basilica and hagia sofia experiences great. topkapi guide was completely disorganised. too many clients to shepherd through. couldn't see him, not explained to us that we needed a paper ticket too. too many crammed into the harem as we had all arrived together. we left topkapi palace quickly without looking around as we were so angry and irritated about the situation
Nadia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Quick access to enter without having to line up for long and in huge crowds. Self paced and tailored to my own interests. Informative
monica
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ottima assistenza. Non si apriva PDF di un biglietto e via mail ci hanno risposto e risolto il problema in pochissimi minuti
Julieta
Apr 2025Verified booking
It is very convenient not to have to get the tickets especially at times when there is a long line - we were there during Easter week, there were many people but we could do everything without any problem - the palace is advisable to do it early in the morning - Hagia Sophia from 15 hs - the cistern between 16 and 17 is quiet to enter especially with these tickets.
View original review in Spanish
Monica
Apr 2025Verified booking
Nuestra experiencia fue buena. Lastima que es Santa Sofia nuestra audioguia no fue bien recibida. Se escuchaba muy mal y nos costó entender. En la Cisterna tuvimos que retroceder hasta la entrada y obtener clave: en ningun lugar estaba a la vista dicha clave y nadie nos informó. Despues de varios intentos pudinos escuchar el audio: excelente recorrido.
Melissa
Apr 2025Verified booking
The venues are amazing on their own. It was very nice to walk right in to the Basilica Cistern while many folks waited in a long line to obtain entry tickets. The security line for the Hagia Sophia was as long as the line to obtain entry tickets...about a firty minute wait for each. Since we purchased our tickets online, we only had to wait in the security line. Note that we were unaware of the evening hours for the Basilica Cistern. Advertising that may help ease some crowding by giving those who are staying in Istanbul an opportunity to visit when the cruise shop crowds are gone.
Daniel
Apr 2025Verified booking
Still had to queue for 40 minutes with the skip the line ticket. Too expensive for what it was. I find 15€ to be a fair price Wifi was too slow to use the audio guide
Josephine
Apr 2025Verified booking
We skipped the long line and it was great. My advice is to download the audio guide if you purchased it before you get inside as there is no WIFI. The link to the guide is on the email they sent with your tickets.
Fabian
Apr 2025Verified booking
Skipping the line to cisterna works flawlessly. Skipping the line to Hagia Sophia (travel time April) is not worth it as the longer line is the entrance line. A warning about the security check and what to bring would have been nice (e.g. cover for hair, long sleeves etc) Audioguide: it is possible to download the audioguide beforehand, however I did not know about that until I was already in at the cisterna and then it was too late, as inside there is no cellphone connection and no internet access. It woul really be helpful to have this information with the WhatsApp info message, which was really nice in general. And then there is the issue with the audioguide for the Hagia Sophia, where on the ticket it says, one is not allowed to use their phone, but then again, how would I listen to the audio guide during the visit? It was fine as no one seemed to care about using a phone, but still this could be a problem.
Guided Tours
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Want the full Istanbul experience with big savings? This guided combo lets you explore Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern — all in one seamless tour.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Look up at golden mosaics and take in sweeping views from the Upper Gallery where emperors once stood.
- Everything you get at Blue Mosque: Step into a vast prayer hall glowing with stained glass and 20,000+ hand-painted Iznik tiles.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: And below the city, explore the 6th-century cistern, where shadowy columns and Medusa heads wait in flickering silence.
- Why choose this: With the landmarks just minutes apart, you can walk from one sight to the next; no transfers, no logistics, no hassle. Explore each site with a passionate, English-speaking guide who brings centuries of history to life through stories you won’t find on the signs.
Want the full Istanbul experience with big savings? This guided combo lets you explore Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Basilica Cistern — all in one seamless tour.
- Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Look up at golden mosaics and take in sweeping views from the Upper Gallery where emperors once stood.
- Everything you get at Blue Mosque: Step into a vast prayer hall glowing with stained glass and 20,000+ hand-painted Iznik tiles.
- Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: And below the city, explore the 6th-century cistern, where shadowy columns and Medusa heads wait in flickering silence.
- Why choose this: With the landmarks just minutes apart, you can walk from one sight to the next; no transfers, no logistics, no hassle. Explore each site with a passionate, English-speaking guide who brings centuries of history to life through stories you won’t find on the signs.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- 1-hour guided tour of Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Audio app for iOS and Android in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish
Hagia Sophia
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Entry to Hagia Sophia Upper Gallery visiting area
- Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish
Blue Mosque
- 1-hour guided tour of Blue Mosque
- Entry to the Blue Mosque
- Expert English-speaking guide
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Don’t exit too quickly. Walk to the far end of the cistern to catch the Medusa heads, which many people overlook.
- Skip-the-line tickets help you avoid long queues, but security screening is still mandatory for all visitors.
- For fewer crowds and a more peaceful visit, go early in the morning or later in the evening.
- The lighting inside is low for ambience; switch on night mode or steady your phone for clearer shots.
- Some parts of the floor are slick. Sturdy footwear with grip will help you walk safely.
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Allow extra time for entry. Security checks can take up to an hour in summer (June to August).
- The main prayer hall is restricted to tourists. Visitors are welcome to explore the upper floor visiting area instead.
- 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.
- Modest dress is required. Everyone should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
- Women must keep their heads covered. Scarves are available at the entrance if you forget to carry your own.
Blue Mosque
- Tip: The mosque closes to non-worshippers during each of the five daily prayers, so check timings before your visit.
- Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- You’ll be asked to remove your shoes at the entrance. Carry a small bag to keep them with you.
- 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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4.3
708 ratings
416
178
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37
What our guests say
Ferri
Feb 2025Verified booking
Experience to be had here in Istanbul especially with the guide who took us through all the explanation necessary to understand the whole history up to the present day. Skip the line is essential to avoid long waits.
View original review in Italian
Stan-Filimon
Feb 2025Verified booking
The guide was very knowledgeable and nice. We didn't have to stay in line and that was a relief as there were hundreds of people waiting. I would definitely recommend and do it again.
Dallas
Feb 2025Verified booking
Very well organized. Very competent and friendly guide
View original review in French
Ross
Apr 2025Verified booking
Hussein was a fantastic guide - informative, relaxed, and hospitable. He took us through the 2 mosques and the cistern with practised ease - making for a comfortable and very enjoyable experience. The audio earpieces worked well and ensured our group could follow easily Hussein's excellent guidance. Hussein was also generous with answering extra questions and allowing group members to spend their own time at the sites and use the facilities. Overall, an excellent tour and well worth it.
Rohaizad
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was well planned. Hussein our guide was great, knowledgeable and friendly. The pace and presentation was very good and clear.
Elena
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide , Al, was very knowledgeable and was good at managing a group of about 40 people on a really peak season day.
View original review in Italian
Rodolfo
Apr 2025Verified booking
All beautiful, especially Cistern and St. Sophia Mosque which, however, due to earthquake ilb23 April, we could see today 24 April. Courtesy and professionalism of the Guide. Thank you
View original review in Italian
Irene
Apr 2025Verified booking
We feared bad surprises after reading some negative comments online, but in Istanbul everything went perfectly . Precise and punctual organization, directions are given to the meeting point and via app everything is very convenient and at hand. Pleasant tour, our guide, Ali (I unfortunately do not remember his full name), was a nice guy, knowledgeable and very helpful. We had a great time with him, the explanation given was just the right length, neither too short nor too long, and the time flew by. Very convenient the skip-the-line ticket, considering the crowds of tourists.
View original review in Italian
Isabel
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience! A group not so large that you can't ask questions to the guide and no one got lost despite big crowds. Incredidbly knowledgeable guide who provided a very detailed and interesting tour. A great start to our trip to Istanbul to get a base understanding of Old Town and its history.
Carmela
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was really very good. Punctual. Easy to find. I had never tried Headout, didn't know it before and had some anxiety because the reviews were not all positive. Really interesting 4-hour tour!
View original review in Italian
Peter
Apr 2025Verified booking
I had a great time thanks to the guid who was brilliant, very informative and was able to pass on the information in easy way so you understood , he also had a good sense of humour . The things we saw were fascinating and interesting even though I have travelled a lot over the years.
Rühling
Apr 2025Verified booking
A very entertaining guide, who ensured that the tour was very exciting, entertaining and entertaining with his great specialist knowledge and many anecdotes! Not having to queue is a great luxury, as the other queues would have taken hours.
View original review in German
Diana
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fayik's punctuality, friendliness and professionalism! He was knowledgeable and at ease with the topics. He easily guided the group. He's an excellent guide! The duration of the tour is ideal and the monuments visited are extraordinary! We recommend
View original review in Portuguese
Mr
Mar 2025Verified booking
Our tour guide was very good. He had a very thorough grasp on the history of each site we visited and gave us just the right amount of detail to really understand the history of each place. A really good experience
Lyle
Mar 2025Verified booking
The guide was friendly and knowledgeable and we had a great tour. One tourist didn't see us at the meeting point half way through and yelled at the guide saying he hadn't shown up, but the guide did show up, he was there and so were the other tourists in the group, just this one man didn't see us and walked away. It wasn't the guide's fault, he waited for the man to come back but then had to carry on with the tour for the rest of us.
Hubertus
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great tour! Excellent tour guide who explained the history of the individual sights with a great deal of experience and passion. Highly recommended!
View original review in German
Christian
Mar 2025Verified booking
We got in quickly Unfortunately in English The guide was quite strict and not relaxed He was more of a boss than a tourist guide There was no audioguite but except in the Hagia Sophia where the preacher was so loud, we understood everything
View original review in German
Christopher
Mar 2025Verified booking
Ali was an excellent guide. Very knowledgable, friendly, and gave us loads of information. He was patient and spoke good english. We had a great time
Tarlin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Our guide Mohammed was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and kind. He gave a lot of details that others would not. He also taught us Turkish words and gave us recommendations to eat and visit. A must go tour. Very easy to book and really wonderful attractions. Don't miss it.
Piers
Mar 2025Verified booking
Very well organized, everything went without a hitch. Above all, the excellent tour guide Busa gave us a special and impressive experience with her friendly manner, her outstanding expertise and her profound knowledge of the details. Many thanks to Busa!
View original review in German
Olaya
Mar 2025Verified booking
It's not that I had problems, I just wasn't enthusiastic about the experience. Although the guide was nice and I think he knew about art history, he was not very enthusiastic and conveyed it that way. Regarding "skipping the queues" it is not true at all. You only skip the one at the cistern. I think you get more out of it if you are very interested in art, which is the point of view from which it was approached.
View original review in Spanish
Armando
Mar 2025Verified booking
Tour guy was very knowledgeable of the Istanbul history. Great way to get into the historical places with the passes. We did not spend time waiting on the lines.
Esther
Mar 2025Verified booking
Detailed explanations and at a good pace. Despite being a visit in English and q in group we were several whose native language is different the guide adapted to us and our level.
View original review in Spanish
Francesca
Feb 2025Verified booking
Haluk has been my guide. Amazing person, professional and full of passion for his job. He explained very well santa Sofia, Blu Mosque and Ciaterna palace. Recommended
Theodoros
Feb 2025Verified booking
Glad we took the combo, we had a great experience visiting these amazing monuments. And our guide Ali gave us many details about the history of the places we visited. Totally recommended.
Itinerary
1
Blue Mosque
60 min
Tickets included
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul rises with six minarets and a towering central dome. Inside, more than 20,000 İznik tiles in shades of blue form intricate floral and geometric designs. Sunlight filters through stained-glass windows, casting a glow on the detailed calligraphy and chandeliers that once shimmered with candlelight.
2
Hagia Sophia
45 min
Tickets included
Enter Hagia Sophia, and your gaze instantly locks onto its massive dome, seemingly suspended in midair as sunlight streams through 40 windows. The walls blend shimmering Byzantine mosaics with towering Ottoman calligraphy. Wander through, and you’ll uncover hidden tunnels, mysterious marble doors, and even Viking carvings etched into the stone!
3
Istanbul Old Town
Guided tour
4
Basilica Cistern
30 min
Tickets included (based on selection)
The Basilica Cistern is a massive underground chamber with 336 marble columns emerging from still water. At the far end, two Medusa head carvings, one tilted sideways and the other inverted, serve as column bases. Subtle lighting casts shadows across the arched ceiling, while gentle ripples shimmer against the ancient stone.
Discover the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia with one discounted ticket and a guide.
- With entry to 2 mosques at a discounted price and a guide, understand how the Blue Mosque’s domes balance perfectly and how the Hagia Sophia was once a church.
- The Blue Mosque’s vast prayer hall glows under stained-glass light, the interiors clad with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and the Quranic calligraphy.
- At Hagia Sophia, Turkey's largest religious building, spot gold mosaics, an ancient omphalion, once a coronation site, and an ancient wishing column touched for luck.
- Walk through Istanbul’s Old Town with your guide, passing the Hippodrome’s chariot-racing arena, and the German Fountain’s dazzling dome.
- Upgrade for a guided walk through the Basilica Cistern’s endless columns where Medusa heads lie oddly positioned, adding mystery to this underground relic.
Discover the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia with one discounted ticket and a guide.
- With entry to 2 mosques at a discounted price and a guide, understand how the Blue Mosque’s domes balance perfectly and how the Hagia Sophia was once a church.
- The Blue Mosque’s vast prayer hall glows under stained-glass light, the interiors clad with 20,000 blue Iznik tiles and the Quranic calligraphy.
- At Hagia Sophia, Turkey's largest religious building, spot gold mosaics, an ancient omphalion, once a coronation site, and an ancient wishing column touched for luck.
- Walk through Istanbul’s Old Town with your guide, passing the Hippodrome’s chariot-racing arena, and the German Fountain’s dazzling dome.
- Upgrade for a guided walk through the Basilica Cistern’s endless columns where Medusa heads lie oddly positioned, adding mystery to this underground relic.
Inclusions
- 1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque
- Entry to Blue Mosque
- 45-min guided tour of the Hagia Sophia
- Entry to Hagia Sophia
- Expert English-speaking licensed guide for all venues
- Walking tour around Old Town
- Istanbul Old Town map
- 30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern (as per option selected)
- Entry to Basilica Cistern (as per option selected)
- 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.
- These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of purchase.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.2
1,033 ratings
599
255
80
35
64
What our guests say
Ferri
Feb 2025Verified booking
Experience to be had here in Istanbul especially with the guide who took us through all the explanation necessary to understand the whole history up to the present day. Skip the line is essential to avoid long waits.
View original review in Italian
Stan-Filimon
Feb 2025Verified booking
The guide was very knowledgeable and nice. We didn't have to stay in line and that was a relief as there were hundreds of people waiting. I would definitely recommend and do it again.
Dallas
Feb 2025Verified booking
Very well organized. Very competent and friendly guide
View original review in French
Ross
Apr 2025Verified booking
Hussein was a fantastic guide - informative, relaxed, and hospitable. He took us through the 2 mosques and the cistern with practised ease - making for a comfortable and very enjoyable experience. The audio earpieces worked well and ensured our group could follow easily Hussein's excellent guidance. Hussein was also generous with answering extra questions and allowing group members to spend their own time at the sites and use the facilities. Overall, an excellent tour and well worth it.
Rohaizad
Apr 2025Verified booking
It was well planned. Hussein our guide was great, knowledgeable and friendly. The pace and presentation was very good and clear.
Laura
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide explained very well both the environment and the 2 mosques that we visited, St. Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
View original review in Spanish
Elena
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide , Al, was very knowledgeable and was good at managing a group of about 40 people on a really peak season day.
View original review in Italian
Rodolfo
Apr 2025Verified booking
All beautiful, especially Cistern and St. Sophia Mosque which, however, due to earthquake ilb23 April, we could see today 24 April. Courtesy and professionalism of the Guide. Thank you
View original review in Italian
Irene
Apr 2025Verified booking
We feared bad surprises after reading some negative comments online, but in Istanbul everything went perfectly . Precise and punctual organization, directions are given to the meeting point and via app everything is very convenient and at hand. Pleasant tour, our guide, Ali (I unfortunately do not remember his full name), was a nice guy, knowledgeable and very helpful. We had a great time with him, the explanation given was just the right length, neither too short nor too long, and the time flew by. Very convenient the skip-the-line ticket, considering the crowds of tourists.
View original review in Italian
Isabel
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great experience! A group not so large that you can't ask questions to the guide and no one got lost despite big crowds. Incredidbly knowledgeable guide who provided a very detailed and interesting tour. A great start to our trip to Istanbul to get a base understanding of Old Town and its history.
Gernot
Apr 2025Verified booking
All in all a good tour...great guide...who knew a lot of background information. unfortunately nothing was recognizable from the fast lane - thank god there was not much going on...so it was no problem.
View original review in German
Carmela
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was really very good. Punctual. Easy to find. I had never tried Headout, didn't know it before and had some anxiety because the reviews were not all positive. Really interesting 4-hour tour!
View original review in Italian
Peter
Apr 2025Verified booking
I had a great time thanks to the guid who was brilliant, very informative and was able to pass on the information in easy way so you understood , he also had a good sense of humour . The things we saw were fascinating and interesting even though I have travelled a lot over the years.
Rühling
Apr 2025Verified booking
A very entertaining guide, who ensured that the tour was very exciting, entertaining and entertaining with his great specialist knowledge and many anecdotes! Not having to queue is a great luxury, as the other queues would have taken hours.
View original review in German
Diana
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fayik's punctuality, friendliness and professionalism! He was knowledgeable and at ease with the topics. He easily guided the group. He's an excellent guide! The duration of the tour is ideal and the monuments visited are extraordinary! We recommend
View original review in Portuguese
Mr
Mar 2025Verified booking
Our tour guide was very good. He had a very thorough grasp on the history of each site we visited and gave us just the right amount of detail to really understand the history of each place. A really good experience
Lyle
Mar 2025Verified booking
The guide was friendly and knowledgeable and we had a great tour. One tourist didn't see us at the meeting point half way through and yelled at the guide saying he hadn't shown up, but the guide did show up, he was there and so were the other tourists in the group, just this one man didn't see us and walked away. It wasn't the guide's fault, he waited for the man to come back but then had to carry on with the tour for the rest of us.
Hubertus
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great tour! Excellent tour guide who explained the history of the individual sights with a great deal of experience and passion. Highly recommended!
View original review in German
Christian
Mar 2025Verified booking
We got in quickly Unfortunately in English The guide was quite strict and not relaxed He was more of a boss than a tourist guide There was no audioguite but except in the Hagia Sophia where the preacher was so loud, we understood everything
View original review in German
Christopher
Mar 2025Verified booking
Ali was an excellent guide. Very knowledgable, friendly, and gave us loads of information. He was patient and spoke good english. We had a great time
Tarlin
Mar 2025Verified booking
Our guide Mohammed was very enthusiastic, knowledgeable and kind. He gave a lot of details that others would not. He also taught us Turkish words and gave us recommendations to eat and visit. A must go tour. Very easy to book and really wonderful attractions. Don't miss it.
Piers
Mar 2025Verified booking
Very well organized, everything went without a hitch. Above all, the excellent tour guide Busa gave us a special and impressive experience with her friendly manner, her outstanding expertise and her profound knowledge of the details. Many thanks to Busa!
View original review in German
Olaya
Mar 2025Verified booking
It's not that I had problems, I just wasn't enthusiastic about the experience. Although the guide was nice and I think he knew about art history, he was not very enthusiastic and conveyed it that way. Regarding "skipping the queues" it is not true at all. You only skip the one at the cistern. I think you get more out of it if you are very interested in art, which is the point of view from which it was approached.
View original review in Spanish
Armando
Mar 2025Verified booking
Tour guy was very knowledgeable of the Istanbul history. Great way to get into the historical places with the passes. We did not spend time waiting on the lines.
YOUNG
Mar 2025Verified booking
Detailed explanation of the history and fun facts about each destinations Efficiently planned itinerary Special thanks to Ali for guiding the tour and letting us know more about the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
Explore Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus with skip-the-line entry, guides, and audio tours.
- Everything you get: Depending on the option you choose, enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia, or combine it with a tour of the Blue Mosque or a Bosphorus cruise. Skip the lines to the Hagia Sophia Mosque Upper Gallery and get insights from expert English-speaking guides.
- Why choose this: This tour offers a deep dive into the history and architecture of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus, with options to customize your visit and experience the best of Istanbul.
- Upgrades: Enhance your experience with multilingual audio-guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, or relax on a Bosphorus cruise with an audio guide available in 10 languages.
Explore Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus with skip-the-line entry, guides, and audio tours.
- Everything you get: Depending on the option you choose, enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia, or combine it with a tour of the Blue Mosque or a Bosphorus cruise. Skip the lines to the Hagia Sophia Mosque Upper Gallery and get insights from expert English-speaking guides.
- Why choose this: This tour offers a deep dive into the history and architecture of Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Bosphorus, with options to customize your visit and experience the best of Istanbul.
- Upgrades: Enhance your experience with multilingual audio-guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, or relax on a Bosphorus cruise with an audio guide available in 10 languages.
Inclusions
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque (as per option selected)
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia and the Old City (as per option selected)
- 2-hour Bosphorus cruise (as per option selected)
- Skip-the-line access to the Hagia Sophia Mosque Upper Gallery visiting area
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Multilingual audio guide for Hagia Sophia
- Bosphorus cruise audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese (as per option selected)
- Entry to Blue Mosque (as per option selected)
- Audio guide for Blue Mosque (as per option selected)
- Tip: 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.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.5
2,750 ratings
1.9K
522
104
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118
What our guests say
Ricardo
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was great. Very complete explanations. At all times told us how the visit would continue, times at each site etc. the visit was with headphones and micro which is much appreciated. Very punctual.
View original review in Spanish
Samiya
Apr 2025Verified booking
Murat was a really good guide, well prepared and clear. We enjoyed both tours of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia with him. For the future, we only recommend to use a microphone or to provide headphones if the group is big so that we can better follow the explanations while being on crowded places.
Laura
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide explained very well both the environment and the 2 mosques that we visited, St. Sophia and the Blue Mosque.
View original review in Spanish
Gernot
Apr 2025Verified booking
All in all a good tour...great guide...who knew a lot of background information. unfortunately nothing was recognizable from the fast lane - thank god there was not much going on...so it was no problem.
View original review in German
Nobuko
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ali was our guide. He is very knowledgeable and very patient for guests who made him much difficult situation. We really enjoyed his tour and very friendly personality. Thank you!!
Simon
Mar 2025Verified booking
Super experinece, no problems with ticets. Exelent Guide mister named Hal. Lot of history stories, revealed simbols. Top experinece of Istanbul!
Nina
Mar 2025Verified booking
We had a very good guide, Buse, who seems to know everything about the Hagia Sophia. She shared her knowledge about all the mosaics and frescos. It is an amazing place, 1500 years old and so huge.
YOUNG
Mar 2025Verified booking
Detailed explanation of the history and fun facts about each destinations Efficiently planned itinerary Special thanks to Ali for guiding the tour and letting us know more about the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
Elen
Apr 2025Verified booking
Guide was really really good. Thank you.
Edward
Apr 2025Verified booking
The guide was very good. He explained the history well and was very polite.
Roberta
Apr 2025Verified booking
The passion competence and kindness of the guide and the timely and efficient organization.
View original review in Italian
Debora
Apr 2025Verified booking
Very knowledgeable guide with very understandable English.
View original review in Italian
Olivia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Murat was very nice and competent guide.
Leonidas
Apr 2025Verified booking
The communication and the explanations
Frank
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our guide, Murat, was excellent. Very well informed, friendly, patient.
Emir
Apr 2025Verified booking
Great guide, provided a lot of interesting information
Maria
Apr 2025Verified booking
El guía kidness and kmows too much
Theodora
Apr 2025Verified booking
Well paced and informative guided tour
Christian
Apr 2025Verified booking
Our Guide provided a vast amount of interesting facts and Details. He also was very friendly and enthusiastic!
Prashanth
Apr 2025Verified booking
Guide was amazing and he did great.
Joern
Mar 2025Verified booking
The tours were very well organized and the guide gave detailed and very exciting explanations. I would gladly come again.
View original review in German
Sonia
Mar 2025Verified booking
Our guide was nice, knowledgeable, professional, respectful. Fantastic place
View original review in Italian
Harry
Feb 2025Verified booking
Tour guide was excellent
View original review in German
HOELEN
Apr 2025Verified booking
eromosele
Apr 2025Verified booking
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 2/4/0 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.
Reviews
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What our guests say
Rui
Apr 2025Verified booking
We enjoyed the 5 visits and the cruise, all works well. The delivery of the Istambul Kart made us lose a lot of time, because in the first day we gone to the Topkapi kiosk exclusively to receive our Istambul Kart as wright in the papers we received. They told us that now the point of delivery changed and we must go to the Dsign Café near Blue Mosque. Since we are going to Grand Bazar on foot it was not convenient to go there. In the afternoon we gone there exclusively to receive the card but no one from Megapasss was there. In next day we visited Topkapi Palace and at the kiosk they told us to go there after the visiting. At last we could have our Istambul Kart. This change was very inconvenient and Megappas should have told us about that alteration when we bought the Megapass.
Elisabeth
Mar 2025Verified booking
Great service and above all very uncomplicated. Thanks to the skip the line, you are guided to the harem and can explore les from there with the audio guide on your cell phone. Really easy and with free time management once you are inside. The tour starts on time, so you should be there at least 10-15 minutes early. You also have to get the voucher, which you can get at the Topkapi Café.
View original review in German
GOUDEMAND
Apr 2025Verified booking
We were refused entry to HAREM in TOPKAPI
View original review in French
Lavinia
Apr 2025Verified booking
Małgorzata
Apr 2025Verified booking
Martin
Apr 2025Verified booking
Thomas
Apr 2025Verified booking
Stefano
Apr 2025Verified booking
Taija
Apr 2025Verified booking
MADELYN
Apr 2025Verified booking
Mar 2025Verified booking
Donatella
Mar 2025Verified booking
Lorenzato
Mar 2025Verified booking
Torben
Mar 2025Verified booking
CARLOS
Apr 2025Verified booking
The Turkish bath in 30 minutes they were telling you that you had to leave when it said it was unlimited time. Also there was supposed to be tea and they charged for it.
View original review in Spanish
GIAVEDONI
Mar 2025Verified booking
The whole experience was a disaster: the the audioguide at Haiya Sofia did not work; the guide at Topkapi Palace misdirected us and to see the Harem was almost impossible (I only had to thanks the autorities of the Palace); I was forced to select days for every attraction and then told me I could use them whenever I wanted within a given period of time; for time reasons I wanted to change one attraction to another, they told me I could and gave me a phone no. to do so, but "the boss" did not answer back and I was finally told that changes were not allowed. Never again!!!
Yolanda
Apr 2025Verified booking
The building
View original review in Spanish
diana
Dec 2024Verified booking
All perfect Great pass to skip the line
View original review in Italian
Raquel
Jan 2025Verified booking
The experience of taking the ticket and pass without queues is excellent, they accompany you to the entrance of topkapi, we were 3 friends and we took the premium megapass. The transport card is very good, it includes 5 trips and then you can recharge them in the machines of any transport. The audio guides are good. The only but, the guided tour of the Blue Mosque is not worth much, it is in English and they do not explain much.
View original review in Spanish
Shefali
Dec 2024Verified booking
It was such a smooth experience. The audio guides were really helpful, and it made looking around the majestic Hagia Sofia that much better to not have to worry about long lines etc.
SUTTO
Nov 2024Verified booking
You definitely skip the line to buy tickets but not the one to access the various activities, the audio guide not always working. Other than the entrance to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia (only upper floor since the ground floor is reserved only for the faithful) and Basilica Cisterna I did not use anything else since even for the metro tickets no one was able to give me directions on how to use the service. I do not recommend it for those who have cash days vistocchè we had to reschedule the itinerary finding the Basilica Cisterna not accessible due to private event on the day we were to visit it and reschedule it the next day not allowing us to see other things of interest; also due to bad weather we could not reschedule the visit to Dolabahce palace thus losing the money for admission and obviously not even the Bosphorus cruise. I probably would not repurchase it with so little time to visit the city.
View original review in Italian
Vasiliki
Nov 2024Verified booking
It gave as the privilege to visit all this monuments skipping the line. Furthermore the fact that we had the chance to do some free activities (like Bosporus tour) make it a greater deal
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
Elena
Nov 2024Verified booking
The convenience of not having to queue practically anywhere. The Blue Mosque tour was very good! Too bad we could not access the Dolmabahce palace because it was the anniversary of the death of the leader and even with the tickets the queue was huge and that day we could only see one room, so we left it pending for the next visit.
View original review in Spanish
Christian
Jan 2025Verified booking
I wouldn't use this pass again because it's far too complicated to get the tickets and it's not necessarily well explained.
View original review in French
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?
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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
Ricardo
SpainApr, 2025
The guide was great. Very complete explanations. At all times told us how the visit would continue, times at each site etc. the visit was with headphones and micro which is much appreciated. Very punctual.
View original review in Spanish
Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Joshua
United StatesApr, 2025
I finally got to visit the great Hagia Sophia. While getting to explore the upper level was a blessing, I don't understand why the lower level is off limits. Even the Blue Mosque is open to non-Muslims. If I had gotten to explore the lower level, my visit would have been perfect. This is not Headout's fault, but something that is on my mind.
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
Véronique
FranceApr, 2025
Thanks to the queue-cutting ticket, we were able to enter Saint Sophia easily. We visited the second floor, as the ground floor is a place of prayer. It's a place where Catholic and Muslim cultures meet. What to see
View original review in French
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
Ferri
ItalyFeb, 2025
Experience to be had here in Istanbul especially with the guide who took us through all the explanation necessary to understand the whole history up to the present day. Skip the line is essential to avoid long waits.
View original review in Italian
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Javier
PanamaDec, 2024
Recommended!! It was very easy to find the tour guide and he knew how to explain about the history of the Mosques. They provided us with headphones to hear better what he was talking. Very patient and attentive. Also with no cues! Fantastic
Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
Wendy
United StatesJan, 2025
+ 2 more
I really appreciated the friendliness and warm welcoming the guides gave me. I felt safe and they really knew how to keep you captivated with all their hostorical content. This was my first time having guided tour and it did not disappoint.
Istanbul: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Tickets
Urney
IndiaNov, 2024
This ride was the highlight of our trip to Turkey. The view of the sky filled with colourful balloons, and the mesmerising view of the city and the valley from above, was breathtaking. It was an experience that we will cherish forever.
Cappadocia Goreme Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Tour with Breakfast & Transfer
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