Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) Tours and Tickets

22,687 reviews

Built in 532 as the world’s largest place of worship, the Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) shifts its identity with the times but never loses its grandeur. Converted from a church to a mosque during the Ottoman era and becoming a museum in 1935, the pink-hued Old City building is one of Istanbul’s don’t-miss attractions.

  • Sultan Ahmet Ayasofya Meydanı 1, Fatih, Istanbul, 34122

Tours and Tickets to Experience Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

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What are people saying about Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Kelly_G, Nov 2023
Great tour and fabulous guide.
Guide was so knowledgeable and went at the perfect pace. She was so attentive and accommodating. This tour was fabulous to begin with but the guide made it so rememorable.
ThianBoon_W, Nov 2023
Insightful perspective of Turkish history with a first class tour guide
Oguzhan gave us a wonderful and insightful perspective of Turkish history, he made it interesting and entertaining which we enjoyed tremendously. The tour started at 9am and ended at 5pm. While we covered alot of ground (pun intended), Oguzhan continues to amaze us with his patience and knowledge. He is extremely accommodating and inpresses us with his photography skills.
Elma_M, Nov 2023
Ali, our tour guide was...
Ali, our tour guide was fantastic. Knowledgable and professional. Driver picked us up timely. Overall great experience, would highly recommend.
mbowen340, Nov 2023
Beautiful Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia mosque was spectacular. We did a lot of walking but it was all worth it. Guide was supposed to meet us at the entrance of the building. We could not find anyone holding an umbrella. After about 15 minutes, we received a call from the guide that he was in the garden past the entrance area and waiting for us. This was the only problem. Otherwise, it was a fantastic tour and we enjoyed it thoroughly. Love to go back to Istanbul, Michael B.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Should I book Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) tickets in advance?
A:
We recommend booking e-tickets ahead of time to secure your spot since Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) can get crowded. If you book with Viator, you can cancel at least 24 hours before the start date of your tour for a full refund.
Q:How much does it cost to visit Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) 2024?
A:
Currently, an entrance ticket to Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) costs USD 39.49. Guided Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya) tours start around USD 39.49 per person.
People Also Ask
Q:Do you need to book Hagia Sophia in advance?
A:No, you do not need to book tickets to the Hagia Sophia in advance. As a mosque, entrance is accessible to all visitors, including tourists. However, if you’re seeking an immersive sightseeing experience, booking a tour online in advance is advisable. Otherwise, be prepared for persistent guides in the long entry line.
Q:Can I wear jeans to Hagia Sophia?
A:Yes, you can wear jeans inside the Hagia Sophia. However, as it is a functioning mosque, men and women must dress modestly and cover their shoulders, arms, and legs. In addition, women must cover their heads inside the mosque. Head scarves and gowns are available for purchase after security.
Q:How do you skip the line at Hagia Sophia?
A:Since being converted from a museum into a mosque in 2020, visiting the Hagia Sophia is free, and skip-the-line admission is no longer available. All guests must wait in the security line, and it is prohibited from entering during prayer times. Many guests enhance the long wait with a guided tour.
Q:What do you see at Hagia Sophia?
A:You'll encounter a captivating blend of history and architecture at the Hagia Sophia. Guests can marvel at intricate mosaics, grand domes, and the fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman influences. Arguably Istanbul’s most emblematic historical site, it offers a glimpse into more than 1,500 years of religious and cultural significance.
Q:Is Hagia Sophia accessible?
A:Yes, the Hagia Sophia is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. A series of ramps enable visitors to easily navigate through security and the mosque. Note that due to the historical nature of the site, there may be some slightly uneven stones between ramps.
Q:When is the best time of day to visit Hagia Sophia?
A:The Hagia Sophia is open 24 hours a day. The best time to visit is early morning or evening when the entrance line is significantly shorter. Keep in mind that admission is not allowed during prayer times, which vary from day to day. Up-to-date times posted are outside the mosque and online.