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Discover the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, in Sultanahmet, Istanbul, learn its history, what to expect and see, hours and ticket price, guided tours, and visiting tips with our comprehensive guide. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya in Turkish) can be considered as the best and the most visited sights in Istanbul together with the neighboring Topkapi Palace.
Hagia Sophia is a former church and museum and declared as one of the world’s greatest architectural works and accepted as the 8th wonder of the world. Built as a church in 325, Hagia Sophia was rebuilt in 537 and was converted into a mosque by Fatih Sultan Mehmet after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453.
Serving as a museum since 1935, a decree on 10th of July 2020 to formally declare the Hagia Sophia as a mosque, after Turkey’s administrative court annulled a 1934-dated decision that paved the way for the use of Hagia Sophia as a museum.
New Regulation
- As of January 15th, 2024, foreign tourists wishing to visit Hagia Sophia for touristic purposes will now be charged an entry fee of 25 Euros.
- It aims to distinguish between visitors coming for worship and those visiting for touristic reasons, as well as to alleviate the congestion at entry points.
- A ticket booth has been set up near the III. Ahmet Fountain, along with an entrance point close to the booth.
- Tourists heading to the gallery section will have the opportunity to view the mosque’s prayer hall floor and Ottoman-era additions, pass through the paradise-hell gate, and examine the Byzantine-era mosaics located in this area.
- Tourists will be able to conduct their visits without disrupting the worship atmosphere within the mosque.
- Also a QR code-based headphone system implemented in Hagia Sophia, so that visitors will be able to receive information in 23 languages through their own headphones or provided disposable ones, ensuring they do not disturb worshippers and enjoy a quiet environment.
No Regrets Hagia Sophia Tickets & Tours
If you are looking for the best Hagia Sophia entrance with guided tours, trust our recommendations, save time and money, we have you covered. Below are some of best experiences you can find! Feel free to book online in advance (as you’ll get discounts), by choosing the eco-friendly option of online tickets.
- Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket & Museum Option (fastest option and cheapest price on net from the official seller)
- Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audio Tour (again fastest option and one of the best)
- Combo: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Tour (a superb one, one of the best)
- Combo: Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia Tour (one of the best)
- Combo Ticket & Tour (all in one – Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace & Basilica Cistern, our favorite, no need to look for else, trust us)
You can check their calendar for available days below, and book in advance. Free cancellation with a FULL REFUND up to 24 hours in advance
Fast Facts: Hagia Sophia
Istanbul’s, as well as the World’s one of most visited sights. So what lies behind?
- The name “Hagia Sophia” means “Holly Wisdom” in Greek.
- First built in 325 AD, collapsed 2 times and rebuilt 3 times.
- Built in the year 532 AD, as the world’s largest place of worship.
- Converted to a mosque after Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Istanbul in 1453.
- Converted to a museum in 1935.
- A decree on 10th of July 2020 to formally declare the Hagia Sophia as a mosque.
- Declared as one of the world’s greatest architectural works.
- Accepted as the 8th wonder of the world.
What is the Hagia Sophia?
The Hagia Sophia is a historical structure in Istanbul, originally built as a cathedral, later converted into a mosque, and now serving as a mosque again. It’s a symbol of religious harmony and is famous for its stunning architecture.
Where is the Hagia Sophia?
The Hagia Sophia is located in the Sultanahmet district of Istanbul, Turkey, a region rich in historical landmarks.
Who built the Hagia Sophia?
The current Hagia Sophia was built under the direction of Emperor Justinian I, with the work overseen by the architects Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles.
When was the Hagia Sophia built?
The present structure of the Hagia Sophia was built between 532 and 537 AD during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. It’s the third Hagia Sophia on the site, with the first two structures destroyed in riots.
History of Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia’s current building is the third construction and has different architectural style due to the rulers of the city.
No Regrets Booking Advice
Roman & Byzantium Period
Hagia Sophia was first constructed in 325 for the great wish and will of the Emperor Constantine to move the capital of the Roman Empire to Istanbul.
After a big earthquake in 360, the construction restored by the Emperor Constantine and called as “the Big Church (Megale Ekklesia)”.
Until the period of Byzantium Emperor Justinianos (527-565), the building had many damages due to rebellions and big fires and so restored again and again.
And finally it is reconstructed in 5 years with the administration of the famous architects Anthemios (Tralles) and Isidoros (Miletus) under the order of the Emperor Justinianos.
Hagia Sophia has been the biggest church and constructed by the East Roman Empire and was used as a church for 916 years, as well as the place in which the emperors were crowned, until the Ottoman Empire’s conquest of Istanbul in 1453, by Fatih Sultan Mehmed.
Ottoman’s Period
After the conquest of Istanbul, Fatih Sultan Mehmed was converted the church into a mosque. Hagia Sophia than was used as a mosque for 482 years.
During the Ottoman Empire, the sultans gave Hagia Sophia a special value. Every effort has been made to protect and sustain Hagia Sophia, the symbol of the conquest.
Ayasofya Mosque Foundation was established by Fatih Sultan Mehmet.
The first minaret, pulpit and altar of Hagia Sophia was built with order of Fatih Sultan Mehmed. He also added a madrasah and library to the place where the building is located.
Sultan Beyazit II (1481-1512) added a mihrab of white marble and a minaret in the northeast corner.
Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent (1520-1566) presented the two lamps he brought from Hungary to Hagia Sophia.
During the period of Sultan Selim II (1566-1574), external retaining structures were added and strengthened by the famous Ottoman Architect Sinan to strengthen Hagia Sophia.
Sinan also made the dome extremely durable by feeding the gaps between the piers carrying the dome of Hagia Sophia and the side walls with arches.
Period of the Turkish Republic
After the establishment of the Republic of Turkey, Hagia Sophia was closed due to restoration work between 1930-1935.
In 1935, with the order of Ataturk, the founder of the Turkish Republic, and the decision of the Council of Ministers, Hagia Sophia was converted into a museum.
Hagia Sophia declared as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
The part of the Hagia Sophia (named Hunkar Pavilion) was opened for prayers for the first time in October 2016, by the Presidency of Religious Affairs.
Finally a decree on 10th of July 2020 to formally declare the Hagia Sophia as a mosque, after Turkey’s administrative court annulled a 1934-dated decision that paved the way for the use of Hagia Sophia as a museum.
First prayer was held in Friday 24, July 2020.
What to See at Hagia Sophia
on the Exterior
You’ll see Sultan Tombs, Elementary School, Fountain, Timing Room, Public Fountains, Minarets, Buttresses, Treasury Building (Skevophylakion), Almshouse.
- Dominant Domes: The central dome, rising 55.6 meters high with a diameter of 31.87 meters, is a marvel of Byzantine architecture. Surrounded by smaller semi-domes and buttressed by massive arches, it creates an imposing sight.
- Minarets: The Hagia Sophia is flanked by four minarets, each soaring into the sky. They were added during the Ottoman period and greatly contribute to the majestic silhouette of the structure.
- Courtyards and Gardens: The exterior also includes beautifully maintained courtyards and gardens that allow for a moment of tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of Istanbul.
on the Interior
It’s like stepping into the holy world of Christianity and Islam, merged on the shell-like apse and under an impressive dome, in a mysterious and mystical ambiance, and a wide range of architectural and art works coming from thousands of years.
Such as the golden Christian mosaics and colorful frescoes from the Byzantine era. Hagia Sophia’s mosaics depict the Christian scenes.
The golden Christian mosaics we mention above are probably from the 10th century, and other famous one depicts Jesus and the Virgin Mary.
You’ll see and admire;
- An impressive Dome, Mosaics, Calligraphic Panes, Tiles, Altar, Minbar, Sultan’s Loge, Muezzin’s Loge, Omphalion, The Library of Sultan Mahmud I, Private Sections (“Maksure”), Marble Cubes, Wishing Column, Gravestone of Commandant Enrico Dandolo, Viking scripture, Doors of Hagia Sophia.
Hagia Sophia Inner Look
current look as a Mosque
while serving as a Museum
Hagia Sophia FAQs
What is so special about Hagia Sophia in Istanbul?
Hagia Sophia is declared as one of the world's greatest architectural works and Accepted as the 8th wonder of the world. It received the designation mostly because of its unique architecture that was first built in 325 AD, collapsed 2 times and rebuilt 3 times. It was world’s largest place of worship in the year 532 AD.
It was converted to a mosque after the conquest of Istanbul in 1453 during the Ottoman Empire period. Converted to a museum in 1935 and a decree on 10th of July 2020 to formally declare the Hagia Sophia as a mosque.
What does Hagia Sophia mean?
"Hagia Sophia" means "Holly Wisdom" in Greek.
What is the Hagia Sophia used for today?
It is used as a mosque. Tourists can enter and have a self guided or guided tours.
Is Hagia Sophia free?
No, as of January 15, 2024, it will cost 25 Euros for foreign guests who want to visit Hagia Sophia for touristic reasons.
How much are tickets for guided tours to Hagia Sophia?
Guided tours cost around €30-40.
How long can you stay inside Hagia Sophia?
Once inside you can stay for as long as you like. You should allow about 1,5 hours for visiting the Hagia Sophia to have a detailed look at the architecture, mosaics, construction, the imperial dome, upper galleries, etc.
What is the best time to visit Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia is open for 24 hours and every day of the week. The best time to visit the Hagia Sophia is the morning period from 09:00 to 12:00, which is the quietest slot as it is a mosque and you can find crowds on the prayer times.
What is the history of Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia was built in 537 AD. Emperor Justinian I ordered it to be built as a cathedral. It has stood the test of time, going from being a cathedral to a mosque to a museum and back to a mosque again recently. Its long history shows how Istanbul's culture and religion have changed over time. It has been a Byzantine cathedral, an Ottoman mosque, and now a symbol of Turkey's rich past.
Who built the Hagia Sophia?
The first Hagia Sophia was designed by the Greek geometers Isidore of Miletus and Anthemius of Tralles. It was ordered by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The goal of building this huge structure to replace a church that was burned in the Nika riots was to make it bigger and more beautiful than any other church.
Where is the Hagia Sophia located?
The Hagia Sophia is in the historic Sultanahmet area in the middle of Istanbul, Turkey. Along with the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, this famous building stands out against the skyline and is an important part of Istanbul's UNESCO World Heritage Site.
How old is Hagia Sophia?
While Hagia Sophia was finished in 537 AD, it is now about over 1,484 years old.
Why is Hagia Sophia considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture?
There are many reasons why Hagia Sophia is considered a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Its unique dome structure, which was the world's biggest for hundreds of years, and its harmonious mix of architectural elements have had a big impact on church and mosque designs throughout history.
Visiting Hours & Admissions
Opening Hours
Open every day
Ticket Price
As of January 15, 2024, it will cost 25 Euros for foreign guests who want to visit Hagia Sophia for cultural reasons.
What Are The Best Hagia Sophia Guided Tours?
Guided tours enrich your visit to the Hagia Sophia by providing expert insights and fascinating stories about this historical wonder. Here are some popular guided tour options:
- Historical Tour: Learn about the construction, transformations, and historical context of Hagia Sophia from a knowledgeable historian.
- Skip-the-Line Tour: Get exclusive priority access and avoid the hassle of waiting in long queues.
- Combined Tours: These include a visit to the Hagia Sophia, along with other notable landmarks such as the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern.
Visiting Hagia Sophia Tips
Why is Hagia Sophia famous?
Hagia Sophia is well-known for its long past and important architecture. It was first built in the sixth century as a church, then as an imperial mosque, and now it is a museum (though it could change back to a mosque at any time).
Its huge dome and detailed mosaics show how Byzantine and Ottoman architecture can look so beautiful together. It shows how rich and varied Istanbul’s religious and cultural past is.
Is Hagia Sophia worth it?
Absolutely, Hagia Sophia is worth a visit. The beautiful tiles, historical importance, and grandeur of the building make it a must-see in Istanbul. You’ll be walking in the steps of kings and sultans and seeing how religion and culture have changed over hundreds of years.
Some Insider Advice
* Muslims and non-Muslims are all allowed to enter Hagia Sophia.
* As of January 15, 2024, it will cost 25 Euros for foreign guests who want to visit Hagia Sophia for cultural reasons.
* For visitors, a ticket booth has been placed near the III. Ahmet Fountain, along with an entrance point near it.
* You are kindly requested to show respect to daily five prayers (check prayer times from here) in the mosque, not to make so much noise, not to run and stand in front of the people praying.
* Some parts of the mosque used by prayers are temporarily closed to the visitors on Friday worship at noon, as not to disturb.
* Women should wear a head covering when entering to Hagia Sophia. You are able to find head scarves at the entrance free of charge.
* Taking photos are allowed, however you should not take the photos of the people praying.
* Guided tours are made and highly recommended as Hagia Sophia has a history coming from thousands of years. As there is no entrance fee, guided tour prices dropped down.
* Better to know the each detail and story, and have a detailed look at the architecture, mosaics, the imperial dome, upper galleries and the decoration from the past and today with a guide.
* Plan at least 60 minutes for the visit. However, 90 minutes much better.
* Plan your day together with Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern as they are within walking distance from Hagia Sophia.
* Visit during the daylight, better in the morning, as natural light inside will make you admire the interior much better.
* Keep an eye out for unofficial guides (guides should have official badge on).
* Don’t pay attention, look in the eyes, and talk with beggars, in addition, people coming beside and ask for helping with guidance around or for money.
* Avoid weekends & Friday prayer at noon if possible, as it will be more crowded with the locals.
* Try the Tarihi Sultanahmet Koftecisi for lunch (about 150 mt. from Hagia Sophia), a popular and historical restaurant famous for its traditional meatball dish and dessert made of semolina. See location map.
* Check the weather forecast and plan your day for the sunniest one if possible.
Is there a dress code for Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia doesn’t have a strict dress code, but people are asked to dress modestly when they go inside. In this case, it means covering your shoulders and knees to show respect for the religion and culture.
How long do you spend at the Hagia Sophia?
You should allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore Hagia Sophia. Guided tours can help you learn more about the background and significance of different parts of the museum.
Can you enter the Hagia Sophia for free?
Entrance to Hagia Sophia for touristic visit is 25 Euros for foreign guests.
What time should I visit the Hagia Sophia?
If you want to avoid crowds, go to Hagia Sophia as soon as it opens in the morning. This way, you can enjoy the site’s beauty without having to deal with the crowds that come later in the day.
Do you need a tour guide for Hagia Sophia?
You can look around Hagia Sophia on your own for free, but having a tour guide gives you more historical information and background. A guide can make your experience better if you want to learn more about the building and mosaics and the stories behind them. Check out the events below.
Make Sure to Visit Hagia Sophia Experience Museum – recently opened 3D Museum
The newly opened Hagia Sophia Experience Museum is also worth a visit. It takes you on a journey through time, culture, art, and science.
This museum is right in the middle of Sultanahmet Square, close to the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts and only a short walk from the famous Hagia Sophia. It promises tourists a captivating experience that will immerse them in the beauty of one of the world’s oldest sanctuaries.
Wanna learn more about Hagia Sophia History Museum?
Online Tickets + Guided Tours
Online tickets for the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, the 8th wonder of the world. Order your fast track tickets or guided tours for Hagia Sophia here.
This is the best option we recommend especially for first time visitors. And we always recommend opting for an extended English guided tour offered exclusively by several historian guides of Istanbul.
When you book you’ll get an email confirmation with meeting details (in front of the Hagia Sophia) and there your name being checked from the official guide’s list with your confirmation number.
See below the recommended Hagia Sophia guided tours. Here we only suggest the proven ways and top rated ones with travelers’ comments. You can feel free to book one of the below top selling tours.
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket
We highly recommend this because it is the fastest and cheapest price you can find. You’ll visit Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque with a skip-the-line ticket. Include a visit to the Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum featuring cutting-edge technology and interactive displays.
Included:
- Skip-the-line entry ticket to Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
- Augmented Reality (AR) technology experience
- Audio guide in 23 different languages
- Headphones
- Access to Hagia Sophia History and Experience Museum (if option selected)
Buy Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Ticket
Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour
During your time with the local guide, you will learn about the intriguing history of this famous location and how it has changed over the course of the ages.
Experience the architectural marvels and breathtaking details that make Hagia Sophia a true treasure by paying close attention to them. In front of Hagia Sophia, where the adventure will begin with a brief history of the Old City, you will meet your experienced local guide.
Buy Hagia Sophia: Entry with Guided Tour
Combo Tickets
This is also a great option we recommend especially for both first time visitors and budget travelers. Majority of the tourists visit Hagia Sophia on the same day with Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern due to their proximity.
Combo tickets become a good choice if want to get them all with same ticket. You can pick one of the combo tickets.
VIP Combo Ticket: Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern
This is offered by Istanbul Welcome Card and we highly recommend. Save both time and money as you enjoy swift access to the city’s TOP 3 attractions: Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace.
This special ticket allows you to skip the line and gain priority access to three of the most impressive landmarks in the city, all of which are walking distance apart on the Historical Peninsula.
This is also a great option we recommend especially for both first time visitors and budget travelers. Majority of the tourists visit Topkapi Palace on the same day with Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern due to their proximity. Combo tickets become a good choice if want to get them all with same ticket. You can pick one of the combo tickets.
Why Choose the VIP Combo Ticket? With this ticket, you can save both time and money, as you get to visit three of the most popular attractions in Istanbul at a discounted price. By choosing this ticket, you won’t have to worry about long queues or waiting in line for hours, as you’ll have priority access to all three sites.
And, for the diverse global travelers, language is no barrier – indulge in the experience with our audio app available in 7 different languages.
The ticket includes:
- Tour guide
- Shared or private walking tour (depending on the option chosen)
- Entry tickets for Hagia Sophia
- Entry tickets for tickets for Basilica Cistern
- Entry tickets for tickets for Topkapi Palace
- Entry tickets for tickets for the Harem
- Entry tickets for the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace
- Headsets to hear the guide better
Istanbul Must See Highlights Tour
Another great combo with Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque & Bosphorus Cruise.
Designed for those on a tight schedule, this guided tour ensures you won’t miss any of the major highlights. Let the knowledgeable guide streamline your journey, providing seamless transitions between landmarks. Say goodbye to the stress of navigating busy streets, allowing you more time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Istanbul.
The ticket includes:
- Your English-speaking guide breaks down the language barrier
- No need to decide where to go next: your itinerary is fully planned
- Boat and public transport fares included: no need to buy a bus card
- Meet in central Fatih, or arrange pickup from another convenient location
Buy Istanbul Must See Highlights Tour
Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace Half Day Tour
A good tour led by an expert guide to enjoy an in-depth exploration of two iconic sites: Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
This tour is not just about landmarks; it’s also about uncovering the captivating stories and intriguing details that often escape other tours. Your guide will reveal the hidden gems and share fascinating tales, ensuring you gain a comprehensive understanding of the rich history and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
- Interact with your guide and enjoy the intimacy of a small-group tour
- Learn the details of two of Istanbul’s most famous attractions
- Save time in Topkapi Palace with priority access
- Learn about the history of these impressive places with an expert guide
Buy Hagia Sophia + Topkapi Palace Half Day Tour
How to Get to Hagia Sophia?
Location
Hagia Sophia is situated in the Sultanahmet neighborhood of Fatih district, Istanbul, along the Sultanahmet Square, just across the famous Blue Mosque. See the location map.
Transportation
The most practical way to get to Sultanahmet is via Bagcilar-Kabatas tram (T1 line).
- The closest tram stop is Sultanahmet.
- Sultanahmet Square and most of the connecting roads are closed for vehicle traffic except tram and tour buses.
- From Taksim, take the funicular to Kabatas (from taksim Square) or funicular to Karakoy (from Tunel square) and than take the tram.
- If you stay at the Sultanahmet hotels, than you easily walk to the museum.
Check our Sultanahmet page to see how to get to Sultanahmet in details.
Contact Details
Address: Sultanahmet Square, Fatih, Istanbul
Tel: +90 212 522 17 50
Web: muze.gen.tr/muze-detay/ayasofya
Hagia Sophia is a wonderful historic moment. Although, if you are a first timer or know little about history of this place or Istanbul in general, worry not. The guide on the tour was amazing. Gave us information about many many things. Much suggest this tour only for the guided thing itself. Not sure how long the queues were, but liked every bit of the tour.
Great experience! My guide was so kind and explanation was clear. I think Aya Sofia really needs to be visited with a guide, to appreciate all its magnificent history. Go there at 9:00 am to avoid crowds.
The tour give was amazing and knows everything about Istanbul and the tour Gide name was Bahar
Wonderful experience! Our tour guide was passionate and informative. Thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Hagia Sophia.