English
English
- Hagia Sophia
- History
- Architecture
- Inside
- Hagia Sophia Photos
- Hagia Sophia Museum
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Hagia Sophia Church
- Basilica Cistern Tickets
- Topkapi Palace Tickets
- Dolmabahçe Palace Tickets
- Galata Tower Tickets
- Blue Mosque Tickets
- Madame Tussauds Tickets
- Turkish Bath & Hammam Experience Tickets
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center Tickets
- Grand Bazaar
- Istanbul Aquarium
- Maiden's Tower
- Istanbul Airport transfers
- Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport transfers
- Pierre Loti Hill Tickets
Hagia Sophia guided tours | A walk through Istanbul's crown jewel
4.2(11.9K Ratings)
- Absorb the rich Byzantine and Islamic past of Hagia Sophia for an hour with an expert historian. Explore at your own pace afterward.
- Skip the ticket lines and head straight to the fun. Let your expert guide offer insights into different elements that make Hagia Sophia a historic marvel.
- Bid your guide goodbye, and take your time to listen to stories of Hagia Sophia in 23 languages, with your audio guide, as you continue exploring.
-Click insta-worthy pics of panoramic views from the visitors' area, which serves as a vantage point for photo-ops.
Inclusions
- 1-hour expert historian guide in English
- Self-paced exploration after guided tour
- Entry ticket to the Hagia Sophia visitors area
- Audio guide app in 23 languages
- Note: There will be a mandatory security check before entering the attraction and guests should expect a considerable wait time.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Bring your headphones or you can rent headphones for 100TRY. Also, bring charged smartphone & headphones
- Appropriate and respectful clothing is mandatory while visiting the Hagia Sophia.
- Women should not wear knee-length shorts, skirts, or clothing with exposed shoulders or chests. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men should not wear knee-length shorts or clothing with exposed shoulders.
- Clothes and scarves are available for purchase at the entrance of the attraction.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Visit 2 of Istanbul’s top attractions – Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – at a discounted price with this combo ticket that includes a local guide.
- Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque, which is now open to the general public after 5 years of extensive renovations.
- Experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia, the largest religious building in Turkey, and view its magnificent dome featuring 40 windows.
- Join a complimentary walking tour of the Old City around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and click amazing pictures of any gems of the Ottoman Empire!
Inclusions
Hagia Sophia
- Hagia Sophia Mosque entrance tickets to the visiting area
- 1-hr guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- English-speaking guide
Blue Mosque
- Entry to the Blue Mosque
- 1-hr guided tour of the Blue Mosque
- English-speaking guide
- Old City tour
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia
- Tip: If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).
- Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
- Photography and outside food and drinks are allowed.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days.
- Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
- Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with a guided tour.
- Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
- Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.
Inclusions
- 60-min Topkapi Palace tour with skip-the-line entry
- 30-min Basilica Cistern tour with skip-the-line entry
- 60-min Hagia Sophia guided tour with skip-the-line entry
- 90-min Blue Mosque guided tour with entry
- 90-min Bosphorus Cruise ticket
- English-speaking guide for all attractions
- Audio app in 10 languages
Day 1
- Hagia Sophia Mosque
- Blue Mosque
- Bosphorus Cruise Tickets
Day 2
- Topkapi Palace
- Basilica Cistern
- Tip: Topkapi Palace's ground floor has the best Instagram potential. You get to photograph the stunning interiors and beautiful ceilings.
- The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish.
- Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
- For Hagia Sophia, Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Their hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you don't have a scarf or covering, it can be purchased at the entrance, at your own expense.
- With this admission ticket (except for Hagia Sophia), you will skip the ticket line, but not the security line. During high season, the security check could take up to 30 minutes.
- This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for pets.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Enjoy a guided tour of 3 of Istanbul’s iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over a span of 2 days.
- Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert English-speaking guide.
- Admire the artwork here with raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings as you to the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
- Soak up the architectural charm and beauty of the Blue Mosque as you admire the hand-painted blue tiles that adorn the mosque’s interior walls.
- See the 5 main domes, 6 minarets, and 8 secondary domes and learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam and Istanbul’s rich heritage from your guide.
- Enter Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires and admire its architectural beauty.
Inclusions
Basilica Cistern
- 30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern
- Expert English-speaking guide
Blue Mosque
- 60-min guided tour of the Blue Mosque
- Entry to the Blue Mosque
- English-speaking guide
Hagia Sophia
- 60-min guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia
- English-speaking tour guide
- Audio guide inside Hagia Sophia
Basilica Cistern
- Tip: The underground cistern is dark and damp, which can lead to a drop in temperature. It’s best to carry a light cardigan to keep yourself warm.
Blue Mosque
- Tip: Look out for decorations and items inside the mosque inscribed with the names of the caliphs and verses from the Quran.
- Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
- If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).
Hagia Sophia
- Tip: Don’t forget to make a wish at one of Hagia Sophia’s columns, known as the ‘wishing column.’ Legend has it that if you poke your finger through a hole in the column and your finger emerges wet, your wishes will come true and you’ll be cured of any illness. No harm in trying!
- Please expect a considerable wait time as you enter the attraction, especially during holidays and weekends.
- Security checks at Hagia Sophia take approximately 30 minutes.
- Since it is a religious place, guests are requested to wear clothes that cover their arms and head.
- While photography is allowed, all visitors are requested to refrain from turning on flash and using bulky accessories like tripods.
- Hagia Sophia may be closed during prayer times as it is a place of religious worship.
- These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of experience.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of purchase.
- Immerse yourself in the history of Hagia Sophia on a 1-hour guided tour with an expert Spanish-speaking historian guide.
- A true embodiment of Byzantine architecture, be sure to closely observe the majestic dome and intricate mosaics depicting religious figures and scenes.
- Discover the legendary 'wishing column' and other secrets of this UNESCO site from an included multilingual audio guide.
- Once your guide has led you through the key areas, you'll have the freedom to explore the magnificent monument at your own pace.
Inclusions
- 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
- Expert Spanish-speaking historian guide
- Audio guide on your own smartphone in 10 languages
- Unlimited stay inside
- Tip: Ask your guide about the intricate calligraphy inscriptions and Islamic art on the walls of Hagia Sophia.
- The audio guide is available in the following languages: English, German, Russian, Italian, French, Spanish, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish.
- Note: With this ticket, you're paying for a guided tour. Entry into the attraction is free.
- This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
- Appropriate and respectful clothing is mandatory while visiting the Hagia Sophia.
- Women should not wear knee-length shorts, skirts, or clothing with exposed shoulders or chests. Hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men should not wear knee-length shorts or clothing with exposed shoulders.
- Clothes and scarves are available for purchase at the entrance of the attraction.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore 3 of Istanbul’s iconic mosques on a half-day walking tour, accompanied by an expert multilingual guide.
- Visit Hagia Sophia from the outside, a masterpiece popular for its splendor has transformed from a cathedral to a mosque and museum.
- Marvel at the grandeur and exquisite blue tiles of the Blue Mosque and the serene ambiance of Suleymaniye Mosque.
- Sip on local drinks at a historical madrasah and indulge in Turkish culture and flavors.
Inclusions
- Small-group tour
- English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese-speaking tour guide
- Local drink at a historical Madrasah
- Beverages
Exclusions
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Hagia Sophia entrance fee (€25 per person, added by the Turkish Government from January 15, 2024)
- Lunch
- Personal expenses
- Tip: Take a leisure stroll to the Spice Bazaar, situated a walk away from the Suleymaniye Mosque and discover a variety of aromatic spices and sweets.
- This tour is available in Italian, Chinese, English, and Spanish.
- It's recommended to wear clothes that cover shoulders, underarms, back, and knees.
- Bring along your scarf, sweater.
- This tour can accommodate a maximum of 9 people in 1 group.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Hagia SophiaGuided Tours
Top things to do in Istanbul
Why Take a Hagia Sophia Guided tour?
- In-Depth Knowledge: A Hagia Sophia guided tour offers an opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge about the history, cultural significance, and architecture of the monument. Your tour guide will tell you about the local anecdotes and stories surrounding the attraction.
- Personalized Experience: A small guided tour can be tailored to the specific interests and preferences of the visitors, making for a more satisfying experience. An experienced tour guide can share insights and stories about Hagia Sophia's history, that may not be immediately apparent from simply wandering through the monument.
- Hidden Gems: Guided tours give you the opportunity to explore hidden artifacts and objects inside the Hagia Sophia. A tour guide will also take you through the complex historical objects inside the monument.
- Fast-Track Access: Guided tours also allow you to skip long lines and spend more time exploring the attraction. You also do not have to worry about missing any part of the attraction.
- Safety and Security: A guided tour provides an added level of security, especially for solo travelers or those who may need to become more familiar with the area. An experienced guide can help visitors navigate potential cultural differences or language barriers.
Highlights covered on your Hagia Sophia guided tour
Main Dome
The central dome of Hagia Sophia was constructed around 537 AD and has since been built and rebuilt over the centuries to keep up with the city’s different reigning dynasties. The dome stands 55 meters above the ground. The intricate designs, rich decorations, and series of smaller columns inside the dome reflect the impressive architecture of the Byzantine era.
Weeping Column
Located at the entrance of the monument, the Weeping Column is a unique feature of the Hagia Sophia Mosque. The column is believed to have been made from porphyry and shipped from the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus. According to tradition, if someone touches the column and places their finger on a hole in it, all their ailments will be cured.
Imperial Door
The Imperial Door of the Hagia Sophia Mosque offers stunning views of the interiors of the monument. The Imperial Door leads to a small chamber that was used by the monarchs to prepare for their processions. The room is decorated with intricate mosaics and carvings, that reflect the decadence of the Byzantine empire.
Sultan’s Lodge
The Sultan’s Lodge is located in the upper gallery on the western side of the building and was built during the 19th century. The lodge has been used by the Sultan and his entourage during his visits to the Hagia Sophia. The luxurious furnishings and decadent decorations showcase the rich taste of the Ottomans. You have to climb up the stairs to explore this room.
Intricate Calligraphy
The domes and walls of the Hagia Sophia are covered with beautiful calligraphy. When the Hagia Sophia Church was converted to the Hagia Sophia Mosque in the 15th century, these ornamentations were added. The verses feature words from the Quran, the names of Prophet Muhammad, and the first four Caliphs, naskh and muhaqqaq, and they are enhanced with floral patterns.
Mosaics and Marble Columns
The mosaics and marble columns in the Hagia Sophia are standing testaments to the glorious era of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires in Istanbul. Jesus, the Virgin Mary, Prophet Muhammad, and their six Caliphs together share space inside the Hagia Sophia. The columns support the grand dome and create a sense of spaciousness and grace inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque.
Guided tours vs Non-Guided tours
Guided Tours
- Expertise: An experienced tour guide will take you through all the major highlights of an attraction and acquaint you with the history and cultural significance of those places.
- Convenience: You do not have to worry about cultural barriers or language problems, for your tour guide will take care of the transportation, tickets, and access to general areas.
- Time Management: A guided tour can help you make the most of your limited time at an attraction by providing a structured itinerary and ensuring that you do not miss any important highlights.
- Safety: It is best for solo travelers to book guided tours for you have fewer chances of getting lost or being misled in a tour group. You can also get advance warnings in case of steep stairs, uneven terrain, or restricted spots.
- Socialization: You can meet like-minded people, who also love traveling to the same kinds of places in these guided tours. Sharing your experience with others can also make for an enjoyable experience.
Non-Guided Tours
- Flexibility: Without a guided tour, you can plan your own itinerary and cover all the highlights of your attraction. You can go at your own pace and spend more or less time on areas that interest you.
- Independence: Exploring an attraction without a tour guide can feel rewarding as you will be responsible for researching and finding out more about the site.
- Cost-Effective: Guided tours are comparatively more expensive but well worth their money. You may save a few extra cents not booking guided tours, but you have to research and cover all the major attractions by yourself.
- Limited Social Interaction: Guided tours give you the opportunity to meet like-minded travelers, however, it may be too overwhelming for some folks, who prefer to spend time at attractions by themselves. If you go without tour guides, you may have limited social interaction.
- May Miss Attractions: You will have to research and find out about the history, cultural context, and stories behind an attraction by yourself, if you visit an attraction without a tour guide. Make sure you do your research well so as not to miss major attractions.
Frequently asked questions about the Hagia Sophia
Can I book Hagia Sophia guided tours?
Yes, you can book Hagia Sophia guided tours to enjoy an informative visit to the attraction and learn deeply about its history and culture.
How do I book Hagia Sophia guided tours?
You can book Hagia Sophia guided tours online. It is best to book these tours online to avoid standing in long lines. Your seat is also reserved and you do not have to worry about missing the attraction.
How much do Hagia Sophia guided tours cost?
Historian-guided Hagia Sophia tours begin from €14.99. You can also upgrade them to include combo tickets to visit more attractions.
What is included in a Hagia Sophia guided tour?
The Hagia Sophia guided tour includes a 1-hour tour of the attraction with an experienced English-speaking tour guide.
In what languages are the Hagia Sophia tours available?
The Hagia Sophia guided tour is only available in English. You can roam around the attraction for as long as you want after your 1-hour guided tour is over.
Is the Hagia Sophia guided tour worth it?
The Hagia Sophia guided tour includes an English-speaking tour guide that takes you around the church-turned-mosque for an hour, sharing important historical facts and interesting anecdotes about the attraction. Anyone with an interest in history and architecture will love it.
Does Hagia Sophia guided tours allow you to skip lines?
Those who book Hagia Sophia guided tours enjoy priority access to the attraction. You can avoid waiting in long lines and will be able to spend more time at the attraction.
Can I cancel a Hagia Sophia guided tour?
Yes, you can cancel the Hagia Sophia guided tour tickets 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund on your purchase.
How long is the Hagia Sophia tour?
The Hagia Sophia guided tour lasts for an hour. However, you are free to explore the attraction on your own for as long as you want.
