Hagia Sophia Entry Ticket: Byzantine Mosaics and the Great Dome

Istanbul's great landmark, Hagia Sophia, has stood since the 6th century, when the city was known as Constantinople. With this Hagia Sophia entry ticket you can visit the building, built as a church and used today as a mosque, and follow the traces of the centuries beneath its enormous dome.

What you will see

The most striking feature is the massive central dome that inspired architects for centuries. During your visit you can take a closer look at Byzantine mosaics, marble columns, carvings and religious artefacts. Holding the marks of several eras in one space, Hagia Sophia is the best place to start understanding Istanbul's layered history.

Before you go

Your ticket is sent by email or WhatsApp the day before your visit, and you show it at the entrance. As Hagia Sophia is a working mosque, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, and women should cover their hair. Visiting arrangements can change at prayer times, so plan your day around them.

Make a day of it

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque and the Basilica Cistern are all within walking distance of each other, so it is easy to see all three in one day. Our guided Sultanahmet tours combine these stops in a single programme.

Practical tips

Visiting arrangements change around Friday midday prayers, so choose another day or time if you can. You may need to remove your shoes, so slip-on footwear helps. Early mornings are calmer and better for photos.

To round off your trip, browse more experiences on our Istanbul tours page, and find somewhere to stay among our hotels in Istanbul.