The Best Hagia Sophia Tour 2023

Meeting Point

Meet your tour guide at the Sultanahmet BusForUs stop in front of the Hagia Sophia. The guide will hold the Istanbul Tourist Pass flag.

3 MUST-VISIT SIGHTS IN ISTANBUL

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is a must-see destination for architecture and history enthusiasts. This inspiring masterpiece has a rich history dating back to the fourth century when the first Hagia Sophia was built on the site of a pagan temple. However, the current structure was rebuilt after a series of fires and finished in 537 A.D. in only 6 years. Hagia Sophia has undergone many transformations, serving as a church and cathedral for more than a millennium before becoming a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople in the 15th century.

The Hagia Sophia is a marvel of engineering with its massive dome and soaring arches. The building’s interior is decorated with magnificent mosaics, ornate marble floors, and intricate calligraphy, making it a feast for the eyes. An interesting fact about The Hagia Sophia is that it contains more than 100 columns, many of which were imported from the Greek Temple of Artemis.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is a testament to the incredible achievements of Ottoman architecture and a must-see destination for anyone traveling to Istanbul. With its complex tilework, grand design, and peaceful atmosphere, it is a place that is sure to leave a large impression on anyone who visits. 

Built in the early 17th century, The Blue Mosque got its name from more than 20,000 blue tiles that decorate its interior, creating a stunning effect. The mosque was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, who wanted to build a grand mosque that would rival the Hagia Sophia. The result is a grand and elegant building with six minarets, and a massive dome.

Suleymaniye Mosque

The construction of the Suleymaniye Mosque began in the 16th century. It is the largest mosque in the city and is famous for its elegant design, magnificence, and historical significance. The mosque’s interior is just as impressive, with a huge prayer hall that can accommodate up to 10,000 worshippers. The interior is adorned with intricate tilework, marble floors, and beautiful stained glass windows that create a sense of peace and serenity.

FAQs

How much does it cost to visit Hagia Sophia?

Since Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque, you can visit it without any entrance fees, but we highly recommend booking a guided tour or buying an entrance ticket that includes an audio guide. If you truly want to get the most out of your visit to Hagia Sophia, a guided tour is the best way to do so.

Can you visit Hagia Sophia as a tourist?

Of course. Hagia Sophia is open to tourists, and we would recommend that you do so. It is an incredible way to experience Istanbul’s heritage and cultural diversity.

Is Hagia Sophia worth visiting?

Yes! Hagia Sophia is certainly worth visiting. Its grand architecture and rich history are something you need to experience for yourself when you’re in Istanbul.

How long is the Hagia Sophia tour?

We offer a 1-hour walking tour, which includes all entrance fees and an experienced tour guide. Still, you should consider our Istanbul Tourist Pass, which allows you to experience an extensive range of the region’s most popular sites and attractions at a discounted rate.

What else can I see close to Hagia Sophia?

Don’t miss out on other amazing and must-see monuments and sites in Istanbul, one of which is the Basilica Cistern, sitting side by side next to Hagia Sophia. Visit a true relic of the Byzantine Empire’s water system that features hundreds of ancient columns. Later on, check out the Topkapi Palace, the historic Ottoman-era Palace complex, or Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world.