Monument · Sultanahmet, Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia
Photo: Adli Wahid, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Hagia Sophia stands as one of Istanbul's oldest surviving buildings. It contains Byzantine mosaics alongside later Islamic additions. The central dome and marble columns remain the main points of interest.

Updated September 27, 2026On day 1 of Istanbul: Two Continents

Visiting Hagia Sophia: what to know

Tickets
Foreign visitors pay an entrance fee (around 25 euros) for the upper gallery visit; the prayer area is free for worshippers.
Time needed
1 to 2 hours
Best time
Early morning, and not at Friday midday prayers
Getting there
Tram to Sultanahmet stop then short walk

Istanbul itineraries with Hagia Sophia

Day 1 of Istanbul: Two Continents

Sultanahmet monuments

How Hagia Sophia fits into a day.
  1. 9:00Hagia SophiaHagia Sophia
  2. 10:45Basilica CisternBasilica Cistern
  3. 11:45Blue MosqueSultan Ahmed Mosque
  4. 14:30Topkapi PalaceTopkapi Palace
See all 5 days
Advertisement
Ad space · 728 × 90

Hagia Sophia FAQs

Is Hagia Sophia open every day?

Yes. Hours vary around prayer times.

What should visitors wear inside?

Modest clothing is required. Women must cover their heads.

Are photos allowed?

Photography is permitted in most areas except during prayers.

More places on this trip