Help

Sell on Headout

Experience the best of Hagia Sophia

We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to. From hundreds of experiences, we’ve picked only the best, making it easy to book.
4.5/5
25,778 travellers from around the world love this
Slide 1 of 13, Hagia Sophia exterior with minarets and gardens, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia exterior with minarets and gardens, Istanbul.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
1 more
  • Step into Hagia Sophia’s Ottoman history with skip-the-line tickets and experience its breathtaking blend of Christian mosaics and imperial elegance, with a multilingual audio guide.

  • Wander beneath the 56-meter-high dome, admire the Deësis mosaic of Christ, and take in the calligraphic medallions that define the interior.

  • Head up to the upper gallery for sweeping views of the vast nave, where intricate Byzantine artistry meets majestic Ottoman design.

  • For an even richer experience, upgrade your visit with options like a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum, or explore the Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque with a multilingual audio guide.

More details
  • Step into Hagia Sophia’s Ottoman history with skip-the-line tickets and experience its breathtaking blend of Christian mosaics and imperial elegance, with a multilingual audio guide.

  • Wander beneath the 56-meter-high dome, admire the Deësis mosaic of Christ, and take in the calligraphic medallions that define the interior.

  • Head up to the upper gallery for sweeping views of the vast nave, where intricate Byzantine artistry meets majestic Ottoman design.

  • For an even richer experience, upgrade your visit with options like a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum, or explore the Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque with a multilingual audio guide.

from
€30.49
Slide 1 of 13, Topkapi Palace entrance, Hagia Sophia dome, and visitor in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace entrance, Hagia Sophia dome, and visitor in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket, complete with an included audio guide.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, the city’s ancient underground water system, and catch a glimpse of the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine mosaics, minarets, and layered Ottoman history in the famous Upper Gallery area.

  • For more history, continue to explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern’s Medusa heads remain a mystery. No one knows where they came from or why they are sideways!

More details
  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket, complete with an included audio guide.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, the city’s ancient underground water system, and catch a glimpse of the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine mosaics, minarets, and layered Ottoman history in the famous Upper Gallery area.

  • For more history, continue to explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern’s Medusa heads remain a mystery. No one knows where they came from or why they are sideways!

from
€159
Slide 1 of 10, Tour group with guide inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, discussing historical details.
Tour group with guide inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, discussing historical details.
1 hr - 2 hrs
  • Do away with long lines and experience Hagia Sophia's rich cultural heritage on a one-hour guided tour led by an English-speaking guide.

  • Explore the Ottoman-era minbar, bronze entrance doors, and marble ramp to the upper galleries while your guide shares lesser-known stories.

  • Admire the stunning mosaics, towering dome, intricate calligraphy, and interiors that reflect centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman history.

  • Upgrade with a guided Blue Mosque tour, or explore Hagia Sophia with an Italian, German, French, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking guide.

More details
  • Do away with long lines and experience Hagia Sophia's rich cultural heritage on a one-hour guided tour led by an English-speaking guide.

  • Explore the Ottoman-era minbar, bronze entrance doors, and marble ramp to the upper galleries while your guide shares lesser-known stories.

  • Admire the stunning mosaics, towering dome, intricate calligraphy, and interiors that reflect centuries of Byzantine and Ottoman history.

  • Upgrade with a guided Blue Mosque tour, or explore Hagia Sophia with an Italian, German, French, Portuguese, or Spanish-speaking guide.

from Original price€42
€34.99

17% off

Slide 1 of 11, Aerial view of Hagia Sophia and interior of Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey.
Aerial view of Hagia Sophia and interior of Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, Turkey.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
  • Get skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with a single cost-effective combo, including immersive audio guides.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern and wander among its eerie marble columns, spotting the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Marvel at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking blend of Byzantine and Ottoman design, and visit the Upper Gallery for views of its golden mosaics.

  • Explore both sites at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide that brings centuries of history to life.

More details
  • Get skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with a single cost-effective combo, including immersive audio guides.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern and wander among its eerie marble columns, spotting the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Marvel at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking blend of Byzantine and Ottoman design, and visit the Upper Gallery for views of its golden mosaics.

  • Explore both sites at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide that brings centuries of history to life.

from
€92.90
Slide 1 of 17, Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns in Istanbul, part of Combo Tour with Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns in Istanbul, part of Combo Tour with Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Explore at your pace
  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, and an option to choose between an expert guided tour in your preferred language or a multilingual audio guided tour.

More details
  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, and an option to choose between an expert guided tour in your preferred language or a multilingual audio guided tour.

from
€96
Slide 1 of 11, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul, with Bosphorus view.
Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul, with Bosphorus view.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
  • See two landmark interiors in one booking, with time to compare spaces, art, and atmosphere instead of planning separate visits or juggling tickets.

  • Your ticket covers Blue Mosque interior access and Hagia Sophia interior access, so you step into each in turn and experience both spaces from within.

  • Take time inside each site to look up at domes, follow floor paths, and notice calligraphy and tile work as you move quietly through the spaces.

  • Let the multilingual audio guide enrich your journey and shape how you move through both sites.

  • Join an English or German-language tour with a licensed guide, or upgrade to a small-group tour with a licensed English-speaking guide for both sites.

More details
  • See two landmark interiors in one booking, with time to compare spaces, art, and atmosphere instead of planning separate visits or juggling tickets.

  • Your ticket covers Blue Mosque interior access and Hagia Sophia interior access, so you step into each in turn and experience both spaces from within.

  • Take time inside each site to look up at domes, follow floor paths, and notice calligraphy and tile work as you move quietly through the spaces.

  • Let the multilingual audio guide enrich your journey and shape how you move through both sites.

  • Join an English or German-language tour with a licensed guide, or upgrade to a small-group tour with a licensed English-speaking guide for both sites.

from Original price€42
€34.99

17% off

Slide 1 of 12, Hagia Sophia with minarets under a blue sky in Istanbul, Turkey.
Hagia Sophia with minarets under a blue sky in Istanbul, Turkey.
2 hrs - 4 hrs
1 more
  • Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern to start your guided tour, valid for 3 days.

  • Reap the benefits of a guided tour included in this ticket which can be availed for 3 museums.

  • Choose to visit the sites on one single day or on separate days with the flexibility of this ticket.

  • Feel free to explore the museums after the guided tour and learn interesting facts about them with the help of the audio guides available in 9 different languages.

More details
  • Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern to start your guided tour, valid for 3 days.

  • Reap the benefits of a guided tour included in this ticket which can be availed for 3 museums.

  • Choose to visit the sites on one single day or on separate days with the flexibility of this ticket.

  • Feel free to explore the museums after the guided tour and learn interesting facts about them with the help of the audio guides available in 9 different languages.

from
€99
Slide 1 of 8, Facade of Hagia Sophia Museum with Turkish flags and intricate architectural details.
Facade of Hagia Sophia Museum with Turkish flags and intricate architectural details.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
  • Tick off two experiences with one combo visit to Hagia Sophia and the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum.

  • Start with a 30-minute 3D tour through themed rooms, immersing yourself in Ottoman history with sound effects and engaging displays.

  • Then, enjoy a guided tour of Hagia Sophia to admire Byzantine mosaics, Ottoman architecture, and centuries of history.

  • Did you know? Hagia Sophia was a museum from 1935 until 2020, before being reconverted into a mosque and earning UNESCO World Heritage status.

More details
  • Tick off two experiences with one combo visit to Hagia Sophia and the Hagia Sophia History & Experience Museum.

  • Start with a 30-minute 3D tour through themed rooms, immersing yourself in Ottoman history with sound effects and engaging displays.

  • Then, enjoy a guided tour of Hagia Sophia to admire Byzantine mosaics, Ottoman architecture, and centuries of history.

  • Did you know? Hagia Sophia was a museum from 1935 until 2020, before being reconverted into a mosque and earning UNESCO World Heritage status.

from
€59
Slide 1 of 9, Theodosius Cistern columns and Hagia Sophia dome in Istanbul.
Theodosius Cistern columns and Hagia Sophia dome in Istanbul.
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
  • Get the best of Istanbul in a day with skip-the-line entry to the Theodosius Cistern and access to Hagia Sophia, both with included audio guides.

  • Descend underground to explore the Theodosius Cistern’s atmospheric space, lined with marble columns that are over 1600 years old.

  • Experience an immersive light and video mapping show that brings the cistern’s ancient history and purpose to life.

  • Step inside Hagia Sophia to marvel at its soaring dome, intricate mosaics, and trace centuries of Christian and Ottoman artistry.

  • Discover the rich history of both the Theodosius Cistern and Hagia Sophia at your own pace with the included audio guide app.

  • Save time and money with this value-packed combo, granting entry to two of Istanbul's most legendary historical sites.

More details
  • Get the best of Istanbul in a day with skip-the-line entry to the Theodosius Cistern and access to Hagia Sophia, both with included audio guides.

  • Descend underground to explore the Theodosius Cistern’s atmospheric space, lined with marble columns that are over 1600 years old.

  • Experience an immersive light and video mapping show that brings the cistern’s ancient history and purpose to life.

  • Step inside Hagia Sophia to marvel at its soaring dome, intricate mosaics, and trace centuries of Christian and Ottoman artistry.

  • Discover the rich history of both the Theodosius Cistern and Hagia Sophia at your own pace with the included audio guide app.

  • Save time and money with this value-packed combo, granting entry to two of Istanbul's most legendary historical sites.

from Original price€52.49
€49.87

5% off

Pro tips to help you make a pick

Skip the line to save time: Purchasing skip-the-line tickets online for Hagia Sophia will help you save time by avoiding long queues and getting fast-track entry. Ticket prices start at €19, making it a great investment for a comfortable visit.

Guided tours for a richer experience: Taking a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide will enhance your experience. You will get a deeper understanding of the cultural, historical, and architectural significance of Hagia Sophia. Audio guides are also available, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Best time for a peaceful visit: Plan to visit Hagia Sophia in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a serene atmosphere as you explore the monument.

Check ticket inclusions: Check your ticket details to ensure it allows you access to all areas of Hagia Sophia, including the upper galleries and the museum, so that you don’t miss out on any highlights.

Combo tickets for added value: Consider buying combo tickets that include access to other popular attractions in Istanbul, such as Dolmabahce Palace, Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace, for a comprehensive sightseeing experience.

About Hagia Sophia

Dating back to 537 AD, Hagia Sophia has been a church, mosque, museum, and mosque once again during its 1,500-year history. Its blend of Christian and Islamic architectural styles make it one of Istanbul's most iconic historic landmarks.


AddressSultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Year opened537
Founded byEmperor Justinian I
Visitors per year3500000
Unesco status1985

Did you know?

Hagia Sophia was the inspiration for the Blue Mosque. Its magnificent dome led to the construction of the other iconic mosque in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia was once used as a military warehouse during the Ottoman Empire. Cannons and ammunition were stored within its walls.

Hagia Sophia has been hit by earthquakes on many instances, causing cracks in its roof and causing its half-domes to collapse. It has been repaired and restored several times throughout its history.

The original Hagia Sophia had large mosaics of Jesus, Mary, Christian saints, and angels, which were plastered and covered up during the Ottoman era. They were uncovered during more modern renovations and restorations of the monument.

Hagia Sophia’s four minarets and other Islamic features were added at different times during the 15th and 16th centuries, during Ottoman rule when the church was converted into a mosque.

Why visit Hagia Sophia?

Unique architectural masterpiece

Hagia Sophia showcases features of both Christian and Islamic architecture, blending Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman architectural styles. It is a majestic testament to Istanbul’s diverse cultural heritage.

Witness to history

In its 1,500-year history, Hagia Sophia has undergone many transformations – from a church to a mosque a museum, and back again to a mosque. This embodies the significant cultural role it has played throughout the history of Istanbul.

Engineering marvel

Hagia Sophia’s massive dome, which seemingly floats above the nave, is an ingenious work of engineering. It was built using innovative architectural techniques that contributed to its stability and the building’s exceptional acoustics.

Intricate mosaics

The interiors of Hagia Sophia are decorated with mesmerizingly intricate mosaics showcasing religious and imperial scenes, masterfully crafted by skilled Byzantine artisans.

Symbol of cultural diversity

With Islamic calligraphy intertwining with Christian icons, Hagia Sophia symbolizes the blending of two great faiths and Istanbul’s rich Christian and Islamic heritage.

Highlights

Plan your visit

Imperial Gate Entrance

Located on the west side of Hagia Sophia, next to the Ablution Fountain, the Imperial Gate entrance is the main entrance for all tourists and visitors. On average, the wait time at this entrance is around 20 minutes.

Travel guides and tips

Browse by themes

What our guests say

Mikio M

Canada
Couple
2 weeks ago

+1 more

We visited the Basilica Cistern on September 26, 2026. It was wonderful to have the flexibility to choose our visiting time after 9:00 AM. The waiting queue was extremely long, but we managed to exchange our online reservation for paper entrance tickets through a guide standing nearby. While it was a little tricky to spot the guide at first, it was totally worth it—we got to skip the massive line and head right inside. The Basilica Cistern is truly a must-visit when you are in Istanbul!

Combo: Galata Tower Tickets + Basilica Cistern Tickets with Audio Guide

Daniela B

United States
Couple
Aug 2026
The Basilica Cistern is one of the most beautiful and unique places I've ever been to, and it's a must-see in Istanbul. Buying tickets here was super easy and quick.

Combo: Galata Tower Tickets + Basilica Cistern Tickets with Audio Guide

Luc C

Couple
Sep 2026
The evening before the agreed date, I had to send an email because the tickets hadn't arrived yet. In the end, it was sorted out. We were at the Hagia Sophia at 9:00 AM. There were still very few visitors at that hour. Unfortunately, the ongoing renovation work somewhat obstructed a good view of the building. At the Basilica Cistern, we easily found the man with the little flag to get inside. It was incredibly crowded here. As for the Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet), there was no queue. We went in very smoothly. We didn't need an audio guide because we had done the necessary research beforehand.

Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

Jesus H

Mexico
Group
Sep 2026
Hagia Sophia is a must-see destination, it is beautiful and full of history. The audio guides along the tour help a lot to understand how it has changed over the years.

Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

Niko L

Group
Jul 2026
The guide spoke clearly and took good care of all the guests. The history of the buildings was explained well. It was a wonderful experience.

Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

James M

Couple
May 2026

+1 more

Easy to use skip the line passes. Was able to see both attractions. The cistern is very impressive. Ticket passage to both venues went without a hitch, once you have figured out the correct line to be in, i.e. the skip the line electronic tickets.

Combo: Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

Eliber L

Colombia
Couple
May 2026
It was a wonderful ceremony; I was completely immersed in a very spiritual atmosphere. The chants, the dancing, and everything else that goes into the ritual were beautiful. All of us in the audience were spellbound by the artists’ mastery.

Combo: Whirling Dervish & Sufi Dance + Hagia Sophia Tickets

Ibrahim W

Solo
Apr 2026
A truly impressive and spiritual experience. The whirling dervishes and the Sufi dance were fascinating to watch and created a special, almost meditative atmosphere. The organization and flow were good, though it’s worth noting that this is more of a quiet, cultural performance than a traditional “show.” Overall, I highly recommend it to anyone interested in culture and spirituality.

Combo: Whirling Dervish & Sufi Dance + Hagia Sophia Tickets

Nearby cities to explore

Get the Headout app, save up to 80%

Enjoy exclusive deals, offline access to your tickets & live booking updates.

Trusted by over 57 million guests worldwide

100% booking protection

You are fully protected end-to-end. If anything is off, we'll fix it or refund you.

Know more

Book with flexibility

Book stress-free with free cancellation and pay-later options on most experiences.

24/7 trip support

We're always a tap away - before, during and after your trip, in all languages.

Verified reviews from real travellers. Trusted by guests worldwide.