Tickets
English
Language
Currency
English
English
Contents

Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque | Plan the perfect day in Istanbul

Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque TicketsHagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

Explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks: the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Each showcases distinct architectural styles that reflect the city's layered history. Admire how the blend of Byzantine Christian and Ottoman Islamic heritage themes come to life through intricate designs, mosaic work, stained glass, and beyond.

Combine your visit to Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

The best part about visiting Istanbul is that its two iconic monuments are located near each other. With a little planning, you can combine your visit to both places and here’s why you should.

Proximity

Located just 3-5 minutes apart in Sultanahmet Square, these landmarks are easy to visit together, saving time and effort. Clear signboards make navigation simple.

Contrast architectural themes

Hagia Sophia represents the Christian Byzantine Empire, while the Blue Mosque embodies the Islamic Ottoman era. Visiting both offers a deep dive into Istanbul’s diverse religious and architectural heritage.

Experience culture

Both sites remain active, giving you insight into Istanbul’s living cultural and religious practices, alongside its rich history.

Capture memories

With minarets, mosaics, calligraphy, and natural play of light, both landmarks offer incredible opportunities to capture the essence of Istanbul, both past and present. Great for you, and great for your Instagram.

Highlights of Blue Mosque

1/6

Minarets

The Blue Mosque has six minarets, which sets it apart from Istanbul's mosques. Four minarets surround the mosque and the courtyard while the other two flank the prayer hall.

Calligraphic tablets

You will find verses of the Quran etched by the renowned Diyarbakir calligrapher Seyyid Kasim Gubari onto the mosque's exteriors.

Courtyards

The forecourt features, columns and turrets in the corner domes while the main courtyard (in front of the prayer hall) known as ‘Avlu’ has a beautiful fountain where worshippers perform rituals before their prayers.

Ceiling

One of the key highlights of the Blue Mosque is its ceiling. It features over 20,000 exquisite blue Iznik tiles designed to perfection.

Stained glass windows

Gifted by the Signoria of Venice, the mosque’s upper-level stained glass windows reflect stunning colors throughout the day.

The Mihrab and the Minbar

The Mihrab is a decorative niche in a mosque that marks the direction of Mecca for prayer. The Minbar is a raised platform or pulpit where the Imam stands to deliver sermons.

Plan your visit to Blue Mosque from Hagia Sophia

Start with Hagia Sophia: It’s usually less crowded in the morning (around 9 am), so start your visit to Hagia Sophia early. Explore the stunning mosaics, the vast interior, and the mixture of religious history.

Visit Blue Mosque: After Hagia Sophia, visit the Blue Mosque to admire its stunning tiles, prayer hall, and grand courtyard. 

Timing considerations: Both attractions have active prayer times during which visitors are not permitted to visit certain sections of the area. You can visit Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque keeping in mind the prayer schedules, to make the most of your visit.

Frequently asked questions about Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

How much time do I need to visit both Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?

Each site takes about 30-45 minutes to explore; guided tours last about an hour with additional time for self-exploration.

What are the best hours to visit both attractions?

The best time to visit Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque is early morning (around 9 am) as soon as they open and when the areas are less crowded.

Are both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque wheelchair accessible?

Both landmarks are accessible in some areas but owing to the Ottoman architectural design, some areas might seem difficult to navigate.

Is photography permitted inside Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque?

Yes, both the attractions allow you to take pictures of the architecture and surrounding areas but please be respectful during prayer times to avoid disturbing worshippers.

Is there a dress code that we follow when visiting the two attractions?

Since both the attractions serve as places of worship, don’t wear sleeveless tops or shorts. Make sure you cover your and your shoulders. Women must wear scarves on the premises. You can find them at the entrance or nearby shops.