If you’re going to Istanbul, chances are Hagia Sophia is on your list!
Visiting Hagia Sophia was one of the highlights of my trip to Istanbul. I’ve always been fascinated by its history and unique blend of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture. It was once the largest cathedral in the world, later became a mosque, then a museum, and has recently been reconverted into a mosque again.
That alone is unbelievable history!
The thought of exploring a place that has been at the heart of religious and political power for over 1,500 years was too intriguing to pass up. I’d heard about its mosaics, towering dome, and breathtaking blend of Christian and Islamic art.
However, I wasn’t quite prepared for the long lines.
We bought our tickets on the day and ended up waiting for a while—a bit of a rookie mistake. If I could do it again, I’d buy tickets online in advance or opt for a guided tour.
If you’re planning to visit, here are my top tips for visiting Hagia Sophia to help you make the most of your experience.
👉 Skip the line and book a guided tour here for a hassle-free visit!
⏰ Short on time?
👉 Get skip the line tickets to Hagia Sophia here
👉 Top Sights to See Nearby
– Basilica Cistern
– Blue Mosque
– Topkapi Palace
– Grand Bazaar
👉 Where to Stay Istanbul
– My Dream Istanbul Hotel
– Casa Galata 35
– Hotel Saint Sophia
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Why Visit Hagia Sophia? A Glimpse into History
Hagia Sophia is not just another historical building. It’s a symbol of cultural and architectural evolution.
- Built in 537 AD by Emperor Justinian I, it was the world’s largest cathedral for almost a thousand years.
- With its magnificent dome and intricate Byzantine mosaics, it stood as a symbol of the Eastern Orthodox Church.
- When the Ottomans took Constantinople in 1453, Mehmed the Conqueror converted it into a mosque, adding minarets, Islamic calligraphy, and a mihrab pointing to Mecca.
- In 1935, it was secularised and turned into a museum, but recently, it has been reconverted into a mosque while remaining open to visitors.
Standing inside Hagia Sophia, you feel the layers of history. It’s like stepping into a timeline of empires, religions, and cultures that have shaped Istanbul.
If you’re interested in history, and architecture, or just love beautiful places, Hagia Sophia is a must-see!
Dress Code and Visitor Etiquette
Since its reconversion into a mosque, visitors are required to follow a modest dress code.
For Women
- Shoulders, knees, and hair must be covered.
- Bringing a light scarf is recommended, but scarves are also provided at the entrance.
For Men
- Shorts above the knee are not allowed.
- Long pants or knee-length shorts are appropriate.
Operating Hours and Best Visiting Times
- Generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but visiting hours may vary during religious events and prayer times.
- Non-Muslims are not allowed inside during prayer times, so check the Hagia Sophia official website for the most accurate timings.
- Early in the morning when it first opens or late in the afternoon before closing to avoid crowds.
- Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, especially during the off-season.
👉 Watch my full visit to Hagia Sophia
Entrance Fees and Tickets
- Entrance is €25.
- Tickets can be purchased from the ticket booth outside Hagia Sophia, but I recommend buying them in advance online.
- Guided tours and audio guides are available for an additional fee.
- You can purchase guided tour tickets or audio guides online to skip the lines.
- I highly recommend booking guided tour tickets online through reputable platforms like GetYourGuide.
💡 Travel Tip: We bought our tickets on the day and waited in line for a long time. If I could do it again, I’d book in advance to save time.
👉 Check out skip-the-line guided tours here for a hassle free visit!
Getting There: How to Go to Hagia Sophia
From Taksim Square
- Take the F1 Funicular to Kabataş, then transfer to the T1 tram towards Sultanahmet.
- The journey takes about 30 minutes.
From Sultanahmet
- Hagia Sophia is a 5-minute walk from the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
- Its central location makes it easy to explore multiple historical sites in one day.
Nearby Attractions
Blue Mosque
- Just across the courtyard, known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive dome.
Topkapi Palace
- Former residence of Ottoman sultans, showcasing treasures and artefacts.
👉 Get skip the line tickets here
Grand Bazaar
- One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, perfect for shopping and cultural experiences.
Basilica Cistern
- An ancient underground reservoir with mystical lighting and Byzantine architecture.
👉 Get skip the line tickets here
👉 Watch my full visit to Basilica Cistern
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It’s an iconic building that has served as a church, mosque, and museum, reflecting the historical blend of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures.
Yes, it’s open to visitors daily, except during prayer times.
Yes, entry is €25. Guided tours are available for an additional fee.
The interior is closed at night, but the illuminated exterior is beautiful and worth seeing.
Yes, Hagia Sophia guided tours are available in multiple languages and include skip-the-line access.
👉 Book a guided tour here to make the most of your visit!
Read More ✈️
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16 Incredible Things to Do in Cappadocia
The Perfect Itinerary for 2 Days in Cappadocia
The Best Hotels with a Blue Mosque View (From Budget to Luxury!)
Visiting Basilica Cistern in Istanbul: Tips, Tickets & What to Expect
My Sunset ATV Ride in Cappadocia! What I Loved and Wish I’d Known
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