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

Tickets

4.4(0)

Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

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.

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Flexible duration

Audio guide

Guided Tours

4.5(0)

Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

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.

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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. - 4 hr.

Combos

4.2(0)

Combo (Save 9%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

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.

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Mobile ticket

Audio guide

Combos

4.2(0)

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

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.

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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

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.

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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

4.2(0)

Istanbul: Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Tickets

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
1.5-hour guided tour of the Hagia Sophia
Skip-the-line 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)
Skip-the-line 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.

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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

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.