Open today
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
4.3/5
(4,150)
Susumu
раиса
Klaudia
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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.
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Descend underground to explore the Theodosius Cistern’s atmospheric space, lined with marble columns that are over 1600 years old.
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Experience an immersive light and video mapping show that brings the cistern’s ancient history and purpose to life.
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Step inside Hagia Sophia to marvel at its soaring dome, intricate mosaics, and trace centuries of Christian and Ottoman artistry.
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Discover the rich history of both the Theodosius Cistern and Hagia Sophia at your own pace with the included audio guide app.
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Save time and money with this value-packed combo, granting entry to two of Istanbul's most legendary historical sites.
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Cistern of Theodosius
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Skip-the-line entrance ticket to Theodosius Cistern
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Audio guide app
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Hourly light and video-mapping show
Hagia Sophia
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Entry to Hagia Sophia
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Audio guide app
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Cistern of Theodosius
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Guided tour
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Food and drinks
Hagia Sophia
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Skip the line entry
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Guided tour
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Food and drinks
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 4,150 reviews4.3
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
2.6K805318156235Guests from United States, Spain, Italy and over 10 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Susumu
Dec 2025Verified booking5/5Allan
Dec 2025Verified booking5/5
Olga
Dec 2025Verified booking5/5Jose
Dec 2025Verified booking3/5George
Dec 2025Verified booking5/5
Save time and discover two of Istanbul’s most iconic sites—Hagia Sophia and the Theodosius Cistern—with skip-the-line entry and audio guides.
Getting started
Start at either site by showing your mobile ticket for entry. Enjoy fast-track access at the Theodosius Cistern and explore both locations at your own pace.
What to expect
Theodosius Cistern
Descend underground to explore this late Roman cistern, a key piece of Byzantine engineering once vital to Istanbul’s water supply.
Features:
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Marble columns and vaulted ceilings: Admire the cistern’s robust 1600-year-old architecture, built to endure centuries below the city.
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Light and video-mapping show: Experience the hourly light and video mapping show that brings the cistern and its purpose to life.
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Contemporary art installations: Catch some rotating modern art exhibits that add a creative dimension to the ancient structure.
Hagia Sophia
Step into Hagia Sophia, a landmark where Byzantine mosaics meet Islamic art, and centuries of history are etched into every surface.
Features:
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Architecture: Discover Hagia Sophia highlights including the mihrab, Christian mosaics, and the legendary weeping column.
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Imperial Gate: Admire the grand entrance used by emperors, topped by a mosaic of Christ flanked by Constantine VI and the Virgin Mary.
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Omphalion: Stand on the marble circle where Byzantine emperors were once crowned, still visible on the floor of the main hall.
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Cistern of Theodosius:
What to bring
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Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved.
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Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the cistern is underground and may be cooler than the outdoor temperature.
What’s not allowed
- Flash photography is not permitted inside the cistern.
Accessibility
- The experience may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchair users due to slippery surfaces and required walking.
Additional information
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Photography is allowed, but please refrain from using flash.
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Opening hours are daily from 9am to 7pm, with the last entry at 6pm.
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Skip-the-line entry does not exempt you from routine security checks, which still apply at the entrance.
Hagia Sophia:
What to bring
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Both men and women must wear modest clothing that covers their shoulders and knees.
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Women are required to cover their heads inside, so bring along a scarf.
What's not allowed
- Large bags, luggage, tripods, and flash photography are not allowed
Accessibility
- The site is not wheelchair accessible as you may have to climb a flight of stairs to reach the Upper Gallery visiting area.
Additional information
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Some areas may be closed due to ongoing renovations.
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Security checks can take time. Keep 30 to 40 minutes on hand for possible delays, especially during midday or after prayer hours.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Please display the same at each ticket redemption point along with a valid photo ID.
Ticket redemption points
Cistern of Theodosius Tickets
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Show your ticket at Cistern of Theodosius.
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Address: Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. No:2/1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.
Get directions to the redemption point
Hagia Sophia Tickets with Audio Guide
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Please scan your ticket at Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.
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Adress: Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.
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Landmark: Hagia Sophia Visiting Area.
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