Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets

4.3(25.6K Ratings)
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Easy exchanges & cancellations
Last-minute availability
Last-minute availability
Top experiences in istanbul
Top experiences in istanbul



Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with audio Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with audio Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with Guided Tour
Hagia Sophia Museum with audio Guided Tour
4.3(165)

Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum Tickets

from
€26
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Head straight inside the newly-opened Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum with fast access tickets that let you bypass long ticket lines.
  • Take a 30-min tour and learn all about the religious and historical significance of the museum’s artifacts through a 3D experience.
  • Feast your eyes on the magnificent Byzantine artworks dating back several centuries that make up the museum’s vast collection. Enjoy unlimited stay inside!
  • Enjoy entry to the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum with an audio guide.
  • Head straight inside the newly-opened Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum with fast access tickets that let you bypass long ticket lines.
  • Take a 30-min tour and learn all about the religious and historical significance of the museum’s artifacts through a 3D experience.
  • Feast your eyes on the magnificent Byzantine artworks dating back several centuries that make up the museum’s vast collection. Enjoy unlimited stay inside!
  • Enjoy entry to the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum with an audio guide.

Inclusions

  • Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum skip-the-line ticket
  • Unlimited stay inside the museum
  • Hagia Sophia Mosque entry (optional)

Exclusions

  • Guided tour of the museum
  • Hagia Sophia mosque entrance fee
  • Tip: Plan a visit to the museum and Hagia Sophia Mosque in tandem to get the full experience of this iconic Turkish attraction.
  • Please note that the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Hagia Sophia Museum are two completely separate attractions. While the former is a sacred place of worship for Muslims, the latter is a museum housing valuable artifacts, mosaics, and other items related to the Hagia Sophia's history as a church and mosque.
  • The following is allowed on this tour: photography in the museum.
  • No children below 8 are allowed in the Museum.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
4.4(272)

Istanbul Top Museums 3-Day Pass: Guided Tour + Entry Tickets & Free Bosphorus Cruise

from €179
€149

17% off

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
Flexible duration
  • 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 from your guide before you enter.
  • 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.
  • 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 from your guide before you enter.
  • 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 tour with entry
  • 90-min Blue Mosque 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.
  • Your guide will show you the way to each attraction, then you can set your own pace for exploring.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase.
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia Cathedral/Mosque/Museum in Istanbul Turkey
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
tourist listening to audio guide in Roman Pantheon
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 11
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 12
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia Cathedral/Mosque/Museum in Istanbul Turkey
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
tourist listening to audio guide in Roman Pantheon
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 11
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 12
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia Cathedral/Mosque/Museum in Istanbul Turkey
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
tourist listening to audio guide in Roman Pantheon
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Interiors of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 11
11982 - Istanbul - Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets - 12
4.4(5.8K)

Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

from
€32.50
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
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.
  • 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)
  • Entry to the Hagia Sophia History Museum (optional)
  • 10% discount at Dsign Cafe

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.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia
Tour guide leading a group through the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, included in the Combo: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern Tickets
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Close up of Mosaics in Hagia Sophia
Sculptures of Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia
Tour guide leading a group through the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, included in the Combo: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern Tickets
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Close up of Mosaics in Hagia Sophia
Sculptures of Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia
Tour guide leading a group through the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, included in the Combo: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace or Basilica Cistern Tickets
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Close up of Mosaics in Hagia Sophia
Sculptures of Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Selfie spot inside Hagia Sophia
4.1(1.6K)

Combo (Save 5%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

from €68.40
€64.98

5% off

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Audio guide
  • Avail of a great cost benefit with this combo, giving you skip-the-line access to two of Istanbul’s iconic sites: the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia.
  • Marvel at the impressive Byzantine architecture of the Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century subterranean marvel with 336 massive columns.
  • Soak in the Basilica Cistern experience with an optional multilingual audio guide providing intriguing insights into the history of this unique site.
  • Step into the world-famous Hagia Sophia, once the largest place of worship for over a millennium with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.
  • Enjoy the liberty to explore the magnificent mosaics and paintings at your own pace at the Hagia Sophia’s 2nd-floor Visitors' Center.
  • Avail of a great cost benefit with this combo, giving you skip-the-line access to two of Istanbul’s iconic sites: the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia.
  • Marvel at the impressive Byzantine architecture of the Basilica Cistern, a 6th-century subterranean marvel with 336 massive columns.
  • Soak in the Basilica Cistern experience with an optional multilingual audio guide providing intriguing insights into the history of this unique site.
  • Step into the world-famous Hagia Sophia, once the largest place of worship for over a millennium with skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide.
  • Enjoy the liberty to explore the magnificent mosaics and paintings at your own pace at the Hagia Sophia’s 2nd-floor Visitors' Center.

Inclusions

Basilica Cistern

  • Skip-the-line entry to the Basilica Cistern
  • Multilingual audio guide

Hagia Sophia

  • Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
  • Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
  • Audio guide in 23 languages

Basilica Cistern

  • Tip: Keep an eye out for the ghostly outlines of carp swimming in the water, they make for a great photo backdrop.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.

Hagia Sophia

  • Tip: Look for the 'weeping column,' it's believed to have healing powers.
  • This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • You skip the ticket lines but you cannot skip the security check.
  • The security check can take up to 60 minutes during peak seasons.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Entry Tickets
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Harem inside the Topkapi Palace
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Tourists exploring the grand interiors of Dolmabahce Palace, marveling at the architectural beauty of Hagia Sophia, and descending into the historic Basilica Cistern on a guided tour
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Sultan's quarters of the Topkapi Palace
Guide with visitors inside topkapi palace
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Entry Tickets
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Harem inside the Topkapi Palace
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Tourists exploring the grand interiors of Dolmabahce Palace, marveling at the architectural beauty of Hagia Sophia, and descending into the historic Basilica Cistern on a guided tour
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Sultan's quarters of the Topkapi Palace
Guide with visitors inside topkapi palace
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Entry Tickets
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Harem inside the Topkapi Palace
Father and son enjoy beautiful view on Hagia Sophia Cathedral, Istanbul
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Tourists exploring the grand interiors of Dolmabahce Palace, marveling at the architectural beauty of Hagia Sophia, and descending into the historic Basilica Cistern on a guided tour
Statue inside the Basilica cistern
Sultan's quarters of the Topkapi Palace
Guide with visitors inside topkapi palace
Imperial gate of Hagia Sophia
4.1(5.1K)

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

from €122.40
€116.28

5% off

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Audio guide
  • This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
  • Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
  • Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
  • At Basilica Cistern, spot the column that is shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
  • With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.
  • This combo lets you skip the lines for Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern all in one go! Perfect for time-conscious travelers and history buffs.
  • Explore the Sultan's lavish chambers at the Topkapi Palace, including the Harem, and marvel at the Imperial Treasury's jewels like the Topkapi Dagger.
  • Witness the architectural marvel of Hagia Sophia and decipher the cryptic Viking runes etched by ancient visitors, alongside Islamic and Christian art.
  • At Basilica Cistern, spot the column that is shaped like the feathers of a peacock, constructed in memory of the slaves who died building it.
  • With multilingual audio guides, unlock the secrets of Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia's hidden murals, and the Basilica Cistern's haunting Medusa.

Inclusions

Topkapi Palace

  • Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Topkapi Palace
  • Access to Harem Museum and Hagia Irene Museum
  • Audio guide in Arabic, English, French, German, Russian, and Spanish

Hagia Sophia

  • Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Hagia Sophia
  • Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish

Basilica Cistern

  • Skip-the-ticket-line entry to Basilica Cistern
  • Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, and Turkish

Topkapi Palace

  • Tip: In the first courtyard, don't miss Hagia Irene, the oldest church in Istanbul and one of the oldest unreconstructed buildings in the world.
  • This experience is wheelchair accessible.

Hagia Sophia

  • Tip: Don't miss the Deesis mosaic, a recently uncovered Byzantine treasure depicting Virgin Mary, Jesus, and John the Baptist in a scene of intercession.
  • This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
  • The prayer area on the first floor can only be entered by Turkish citizens.

Basilica Cistern

  • Tip: Look out for exhibitions which combine modern art installations with the cistern's ancient architecture, showcasing Istanbul's evolving character.
  • This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
3.6(21)

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

from
€98
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
Transfers included
  • Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
  • With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
  • A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
  • For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!
  • Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
  • With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
  • A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
  • For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!

Inclusions

  • Choice of 2/4/9 of Istanbul's top attractions
  • Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace
  • Cruises: Bosphorus cruise, Dinner cruise on Bosphorus with Turkish drinks and food
  • Tours: Asian side walking tour, Blue Mosque tour,
  • Access to hop on hop off bus tour
  • Activities: Dervish Ceremony, Turkish bath & Hamam
  • 5-ride transportation card
  • Digital guide book
  • City, tram & metro map
  • There is no reservation needed for any activity except the Bosphorus Dinner cruise.
  • Each pass is valid for 7 consecutive days including the first day of use.
  • You can visit multiple attractions in a day but you can only visit each attraction once with this pass.
  • You do have skip-the-line access but you will still need to go through security.
  • You’ll receive an email shortly afterward with your tickets after you've picked a pass of your choice.
  • If you're someone who likes a physical pass, you can print the PDF or show the PDF at the attraction so they scan your QR ticket.
  • For the all-inclusive pass, you will also receive all your tickets.
  • You can change the chosen attractions as many times as you want, or you can cancel the pass free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Hagia SophiaSkip the Line Tours

Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets | Beat the crowds

The Hagia Sophia is an architectural masterpiece, a testament to centuries of history. Once an Orthodox Cathedral in the 6th century, the Hagia Sophia was later turned into a mosque, then a museum, and is now an active mosque again. It receives thousands of visitors every year, however, you can skip ahead of long lines if you purchase Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets in advance. 

How long are the queues at the Hagia Sophia entrance?

The Hagia Sophia has 3 entrances. The main entrance is located on the west side of the building. And, there are side entrances and entrances from the narthex. During peak hours, you need to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes to enter the mosque. With skip-the-line tickets, you can shorten your waiting time, and enter the mosque within 15 to 30 minutes.

Why you should skip the line at Hagia Sophia?

  • Make the most of your visit: If you love history and architecture and want to explore every facet of Hagia Sophia’s impeccable structure, you must book Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets. 
  • Skip ahead of long lines: With Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets, you can bypass long lines and save time, ensuring that you can spend more time exploring the mosque. 
  • Ensure a hassle-free visit: By pre-booking skip-the-line tickets in advance, you do not have to worry about standing in long lines or missing the attraction. 
  • Visit other nearby sites: We recommend you book skip-the-line tickets to spend less time standing outside the Hagia Sophia. With the time saved, you can squeeze in other attractions like the Blue Mosque, the Basilica Cistern, and others nearby. 
  • Optimize your itinerary: Pre-booking Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets allows you to design your itinerary in a way that you can visit Hagia Sophia early in the morning or late in the evening, depending on your convenience.

How to skip the line at Hagia Sophia?

Book tickets online

Book tickets online

The best way to ensure that you do not have to stand in long lines outside the Hagia Sophia is to book tickets online. Online ticket bookings are convenient and save time and money. Booking tickets online also ensures that you will get access to the mosque no matter the crowd on the day of your visit.

Choose skip-the-line tickets

Choose skip-the-line tickets

Another sure way to ensure priority access to the mosque museum is to book Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets in advance. With these tickets, you can bypass long lines and also enjoy multilingual audio guides in over 23 languages. Audio guides allow you to explore the mosque at your own pace alongside narrating important historical events.

Visit early in the day

Visit early in the day

You can experience a quieter atmosphere at the Hagia Sophia early in the morning or around late afternoon. There are fewer people inside the mosque. Be mindful that the mosque remains closed to non-worshippers during prayer hours, hence plan your visit accordingly. 

Opt for guided tours with skip-the-line entry

Opt for guided tours with skip-the-line entry

Another way to skip ahead of long lines is to book Hagia Sophia guided tours. These tour tickets include skip-the-line entry, an expert tour guide, and an audio guide in 23 languages. The best perk of booking a guided tour is that an expert will acquaint you with the historical anecdotes and cultural significance of the mosque, after which you can explore the mosque on your own with the audio guide playing in your ear.

Plan your day in advance

Plan your day in advance

If you want to skip ahead of long lines at the Hagia Sophia, you must plan your itinerary accordingly. Schedule a visit early in the day or book skip-the-line tickets in advance to experience lesser crowds at the Hagia Sophia Mosque.

Which entrance do Hagia Sophia skip-the-line ticket holders use?

The Hagia Sophia has 3 entrances, the Imperial entrance on the western side, the Narthex Doors on the southern side, and the Emperor’s Door on the southern side. If you have purchased skip-the-line tickets, you can enter the mosque through any entrance. Please note that since Hagia Sophia is an active mosque, some entrances may be closed to non-worshippers temporarily. In such cases, you can use any of the other entrances. It is important to note that while you can bypass long lines with your skip-the-line tickets, you cannot skip the security check. 

Frequently asked questions about Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets

Can I skip the line at the Hagia Sophia?

Yes, you can skip ahead of long lines at the Hagia Sophia with your skip-the-line tickets, which also include an audio guide in 23 languages. A Hagia Sophia historian-guided tour with skip-the-line entry provides priority access, an expert tour guide, and an audio guide in 23 languages.  

Are Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets available for booking?

Yes, you can purchase Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets online. Note that these tickets allow you to bypass long lines of visitors, however, you still have to wait in line for security checks. 

How much do Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets cost?

The Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets cost around €36. If you love history and architecture, we would recommend you purchase the Hagia Sophia historian-guided tour since it also starts from €36, and allows you more flexibility to tailor your visit. With the guided tours, an expert tour guide will accompany you for around an hour, after which you can plug in your audio guide and explore the mosque by yourself.

Why should I book Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets?

We recommend booking Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets because they allow you to bypass long lines and spend more time at the mosque. You can also access an audio guide, available in 23 languages, which allows you to explore the mosque museum at your own pace.

What is the waiting time to get into the Hagia Sophia?

During peak season, between March to May, and September to October, you need to wait at least 30 to 60 minutes outside the mosque. With skip-the-line tickets, you can minimize your waiting time, and enter the mosque within 15 to 30 minutes.

Is there a specific entrance for Hagia Sophia skip-the-line ticket holders?

There is no specific entrance for Hagia Sophia skip-the-line ticket holders. You can enter through any of the entrances and explore the mosque museum.

Are audio guides available with Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets?

Yes, the Hagia Sophia skip-the-line tickets include an audio guide, available in 23 languages. If you book a historian-guided tour, you can also access an audio guide to explore the mosque at your own pace.