Hagia Sophia: Tickets and Tours

Steeped in history and with its unmistakable architecture, the Hagia Sophia located in Istanbul, Turkey, is an unforgettable destination for anyone fascinated by the evolution of cultures and civilizations. From the moment you approach this awe-inspiring monument, you are transported to a world where history, religion, and art intersect.

Hagia Sophia tours offer a chance to delve into the story of a building that has played a central role in the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, having served as an Orthodox cathedral, a mosque, and a museum over its 15-century lifespan.

Tour guides expertly navigate the layers of history, and breathe life into each era the Hagia Sophia has endured. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a casual traveler, a tour to Hagia Sophia is not just a visit to a historical site, it's an opportunity to time travel through the region’s often tumultuous past. The Hagia Sophia continues to stand as a testament to the multicultural heritage of Istanbul, and even as a place of worship, its doors remain open to those willing to step inside.

Here's our complete guide on Hagia Sophia, one of the most historical attractions in Istanbul.

How are the prices for Hagia Sophia tickets?

Hagia Sophia, like all mosques in Istanbul, does not charge an entry fee. You can also visit the adjacent Sultan Tombs at no cost.

While entry is free, access is controlled with a limited number of people being allowed entry at a time. As a site that is rich in multiculturalism and a location that has served as a holy site for more than one faith, a guided tour is recommended.

A one-hour guided tour with an experienced and knowledgeable on-site guide will cost approximately US$15 per person.

Should you book tours in advance?

Booking Hagia Sophia tours in advance online ensures a place on your selected date and tour, as numbers per tour are limited and subject to availability. Many tour operators offer a skip-the-line ticket, helping you to avoid long hours waiting to enter the attraction.

What are the most popular Hagia Sophia tours?

To make the most of this historically fascinating and significant attraction, you should definitely consider joining a guided tour. Although you can view the Hagia Sophia independently, or make use of an audio guide, an organized tour is best. Several tours also include other nearby attractions and landmarks, allowing you to extend your exploration of Istanbul’s religious and cultural history.

A visit to Hagia Sophia with an expert guide will add insight and depth to a site that holds many nuanced clues to the history of this region. Depending on the time you have available, and whether you would like to include other attractions in your day of sightseeing, you can either choose a guided tour of Hagia Sophia on a small-group or private basis, or you can select a combo tour that will also introduce you to other fascinating and significant structures in Istanbul.

Tours can be as short as 1 hour or last up to 8 hours on a multi-destination itinerary. A tour to Hagia Sophia is best enjoyed outside of prayer times, as during these periods of religious observance, certain areas are not accessible to the general public.

Can you combine Hagia Sophia tours with other attractions?

While a visit to Hagia Sophia can be an outing in itself, several tours are available that combine the mosque with other notable sites in Istanbul and the surrounding areas. Some alternatives include:

• Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque: This guided half-day tour visits two of Istanbul’s most famous monuments, including the Blue Mosque.
• Istanbul day tour: Full-day tours include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar and a Bosphorus cruise.
• Istanbul combo tours: You can also get combo tickets to tours that commonly include Hagia Sophia, the Basilica Cistern and the Hippodrome.

What is there to see inside?

The Hagia Sophia is a place of innovative architecture, religious significance and a multi-layered history that reflects the passing of time. The building’s breathtaking domes appear suspended in mid-air, and the monolithic columns and intricate mosaics add to the interior’s allure.

Mosaics and engravings

While many of the historical artworks in the mosque have been removed or obscured over the ages, the walls and ceilings reflect the structure’s relevance to the history of both Christianity and Islam. Floral and geometric motifs, as well as various religious iconography and the green and golden tughra are a sight to behold.

Calligraphic roundels and minarets

In the main hall, you will see eight eye-catching calligraphy roundels, known to be among the largest roundels in the Islamic world. Columns from various eras, including embellished ones, are present throughout the main hall.

In the upper gallery, places of interest include a 3rd-century grave marker and a Viking inscription that has been dated to the 9th century.

Other notable things to see at Hagia Sophia include the Lustration Urns, Omphalion, and the Qubbah – the mosque’s main dome. The Hagia Sophia bath house, or Hammam is located just opposite the mosque and is still in use today. The Mausoleums of Ottoman Sultans also stand at this location and are included in most tours.

What's the easiest way to get there?

The easiest way to reach Hagia Sophia is by tram or funicular. From Taksim Square, you can take funicular F1 which is located inside the metro station. You can also take tram T1 for a 15-minute journey from the Kabatas Tram Station to Sultanahmet. From Sultanahmet, the Hagia Sophia is within walking distance.

What are the opening times?

At present, the Sophia Hagia is open 24-hours a day, year round although organized tours are only available during the day. If you visit during prayer hours, you will find certain barriers erected to separate the prayer section. It is, therefore, advisable to visit outside of the hours of worship out of respect and in order to view the full interior.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

The Hagia Sophia is accessible for visitors in wheelchairs. There are also accessible toilet facilities, making it one of Istanbul’s easily accessible museums and mosques.

When is the best time to visit Hagia Sophia?

The best time to visit Hagia Sophia is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). Temperatures are moderate and the city is less crowded than in the height of summer.

Hagia Sophia is typically less crowded early in the morning and later in the afternoon outside of prayer times.

Travel tips

• Hagia Sophia is a religious site, so it's important to dress respectfully. Women should bring a scarf to cover their hair, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
• You'll be on your feet for a while, so wear comfortable shoes. Also, remember that the ancient floors can be uneven and slippery. If you step on a carpet, you need to take off your shoes.
• Photography is allowed, but do not take photos of anyone praying.
• If you visit during prayer time, remember to stay silent and respectful.
• There's a lot to see in Hagia Sophia, so try not to rush your visit. Take the time to admire the beautiful mosaics, enormous dome, and other features of the building.