How to Visit Hagia Sophia: Entrance and Ticket Fees

Ready to marvel at the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul? With its iconic dome, centuries of history, and stunning mosaics, this landmark is a must-visit. But first—what’s the entrance fee, when’s it open, and how to skip the crowds? Let’s dive into everything you need to know so you can enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Ticket Prices & Entrance Fee

• Foreign visitors pay €25 for access to the upper gallery, with the fee set in euros since March 2024.
• Children under 8 enter free with a valid ID.
• Turkish citizens entering to pray are admitted free via a separate gate.
• Ticket only grants access to the upper floor; the ground floor is reserved for worshippers.

Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

Hours

• 9 AM – 7:30 PM daily.
• Note: It closes partially during prayer times—especially Friday midday (≈12:30–14:30).

Best Times

• Arrive right at opening (~9 AM) to beat the crowds.
• Weekdays in spring or fall (April–May, Sept–Oct) offer nicer weather and fewer tourists.

Skip-the-Line & Guided Tours

Skip-the-Line Tickets

• These let you skip queues, access the upper gallery, and include an audio guide.

Guided Tours

• Options include expert-led visits or mobile audio-guide tours.
• Typical tours last 1–1.5 hours, with combos often including the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace.

What You’ll See & How Long to Stay

• Appreciate the Byzantine mosaics, grand dome, and Islamic calligraphy—even from the upper gallery.
• A solo visit takes ~30–45 minutes; with guides or deeper exploration, allow 1–2 hours.

Top Visitor Tips

• Dress code: Shoulders and knees covered; women must partially cover hair. Scarves and cover-ups are available for purchase at the entrance (€1–3).
• Security checks: Expect 30–60 minute waits in peak summer.
• Prayer times: Plan around five daily prayer times—avoid noon–2 PM on Fridays when parts may be inaccessible to tourists.
• Best photo light: Early morning or late afternoon provides soft light inside.
• Ground floor restricted: Only the upper gallery is open to tourists—an older marble floor glimpse but limited access.

What to See Near Hagia Sophia: Walking Plan for the Day

Hagia Sophia is in the heart of the old city. It is the best place to start your walking tour in Istanbul. Many top landmarks are just a few minutes away. Here is a simple plan to enjoy your day around Hagia Sophia:

Start at Hagia Sophia (09:00 AM)

Visit early to avoid crowds. Explore the upper gallery. Take your time to see the mosaics and big dome. Spend around 1 hour here.

Walk to the Blue Mosque (10:00 AM)

It is right across the square. This mosque is still active. It has six minarets and a peaceful courtyard. Entry is free. You should dress modestly. Women need a scarf. Spend 30–40 minutes here.

Explore the Hippodrome (10:45 AM)

The old Roman racetrack is just next to the Blue Mosque. See the Egyptian Obelisk, the Serpent Column, and the German Fountain. It is an open area and free to walk around. Take photos and relax.

Visit the Basilica Cistern (11:30 AM)

Walk for 2–3 minutes from the Hippodrome. Go underground to see giant columns and reflections in water. It feels cool and quiet. Do not miss the Medusa heads. Entry requires a ticket. You can join a Small Group Tour if you want more info.

Lunch break in Sultanahmet (12:30 PM)

There are many cafes near Hagia Sophia. Try Turkish kebab, lentil soup or a fresh pomegranate juice.

See Topkapi Palace (01:30 PM)

Walk to the nearby Topkapi Palace. It was the home of Ottoman sultans. Visit the courtyards, kitchens, and the Holy Relics Room. You can spend 1–2 hours here. Entry requires a ticket. You can also join a Best of Istanbul Tour with Guide for full details.

Relax at Gulhane Park (03:30 PM)

After the palace, walk through Gulhane Park. It is quiet and green. Sit by the trees, have Turkish tea, and enjoy the view of the Bosphorus.

This walk shows the best of Istanbul’s old town in just one day. If you prefer, join a Private Old City Istanbul Tour with Bosphorus Cruise to see all these places with a licensed guide and skip the lines.

FAQs (Based on Popular Tourist Searches)

Q: Do I need to pre-book?
A: Highly recommended—you’ll avoid long lines and ensure entry during peak times.

Q: Are there combos with other attractions?
A: Yes—many packages include Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, or Topkapi Palace.

Q: Can I visit the whole mosque?
A: The ground floor is reserved for worshippers; tourists access the gallery only.

Q: Is Hagia Sophia open year-round?
A: Yes, every day except prayer closures (Friday midday), and it's open daily in all seasons.

To truly enjoy your visit: arrive early, dress respectfully, and consider a skip-the-line or guided tour for deeper insight. Hagia Sophia’s awe-inspiring space deserves at least an hour in your Istanbul itinerary.

Want help booking tickets or finding the best combo tours? Contact us today—we’ll help you plan an unforgettable visit to Hagia Sophia!