Treasures of Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Tour

Explore the wonders of Hagia Sophia on the "Treasures of Istanbul" tour. Dive into its rich history, admire stunning architecture, and uncover the secrets of this iconic landmark with an expert guide.

About this activity

Highlights

Guided Exploration: Visiting with a guide ensures you uncover the hidden stories, historical significance, and detailed artistry that most visitors miss, offering a deeper appreciation of this world-renowned monument.
Architectural Masterpiece: Its awe-inspiring domes, intricate mosaics, and blend of Christian and Islamic art showcase the architectural genius of ancient civilizations.
Iconic History: Hagia Sophia embodies over 1,500 years of rich history, from its origins as a Byzantine cathedral to its transformation into an Ottoman mosque, making it a unique cultural

Description

Hagia Sophia is a true treasure of Istanbul, representing over 1,500 years of history, culture, and architectural brilliance. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, it served as the heart of Byzantine Christianity before becoming an imperial mosque under the Ottomans in 1453. Today, it stands as a museum & Mosque and a symbol of the harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic art and architecture.Visiting Hagia Sophia with a guide is essential to fully appreciate its ...

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Hagia Sophia is a true treasure of Istanbul, representing over 1,500 years of history, culture, and architectural brilliance. Originally built as a cathedral in 537 AD, it served as the heart of Byzantine Christianity before becoming an imperial mosque under the Ottomans in 1453. Today, it stands as a museum & Mosque and a symbol of the harmonious blend of Christian and Islamic art and architecture.

Visiting Hagia Sophia with a guide is essential to fully appreciate its significance. A knowledgeable guide will help you uncover the stories behind its grand domes, intricate mosaics, and stunning calligraphy, revealing the layers of history that have shaped this iconic structure. You'll learn about the engineering marvels that made Hagia Sophia a wonder of its time and discover the hidden details that most visitors overlook.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore Hagia Sophia with an expert. It's more than just a building; it's a journey through centuries of history, offering insights into the diverse cultural heritage that defines Istanbul.

Includes

Skip-the-ticket ticket
1-hour guided tour inside & outside of Hagia Sophia
Audio guide app in various languages

Excludes

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Headset

How It Works

Book your tour, meet your guide, explore Hagia Sophia’s rich history and architecture, and uncover hidden stories and details that make this landmark a true treasure.

What to bring

Headscarf
Charged Smartphone
Headphones

Not allowed

Short skirts
Shorts

Know before you go

There is a mandatory security queue and it is not skippable. In high season security check can take up to 60 minutes.
The visit duration and time can vary depending on the cleaning and disinfectant schedules of the authorities.
Women must cover their hair and shoulders. Scarves are available for 100 TRY.
Men & women must cover their knees. If you weare shorts you can buy a bodycover for 100 TRY.
There is no need to remove shoes, explore comfortably.
Only Turkish citizens are allowed in the prayer area during prayer times.
This tour & ticket gives you access to the Visiting Area & Upper gallery not the prayer area.