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Home/Turkey/Istanbul/Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)

Explore Hagia Sophia: Istanbul's Timeless Icon

Step into history at Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), the architectural masterpiece of Istanbul. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, where stunning mosaics meet magnificent Islamic calligraphy. Whether you are booking a guided historical tour, a private cultural experience, or a skip-the-line sightseeing adventure, Hagia Sophia offers an unparalleled journey through time. Discover the spiritual essence and architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site. From expert-led museum tours to seamless entry, plan your perfect Istanbul visit and witness one of the world's most iconic landmarks today!

4.7/5 avg ratingFrom $22.03 per person776 incredible experiencesSkip-the-line available

At a glance

Rating

Rating

4.7★ average

Based on 135,720 pooled reviews with ~94% positive sentiment

Tour Price

Tour Price

$57–$200 typical

Median price is $106, with Cultural Tours averaging $80

Tour Duration

Tour Duration

2–8 hours typical

Median duration is 6.5 hours

Tour Type

Tour Type

Sightseeing & Cultural

74% are sightseeing tours and 80% focus on cultural themes

Tour Format

Tour Format

High private tour share

44% of options are private tours and 68% are guided

Languages

Languages

8 languages offered

Includes English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Portuguese

824 Products

Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Live Guide & Asian Side Stop

Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Live Guide & Asian Side Stop

2.5 hrsFree cancellation
4.97 (2,336 reviews)
98.5%
1.5%
the guide was really nicerecommendamazing
Viator
$59
Book now
View Details
Bosphorus Yacht Cruise with Live Guide & Asian Side Stop
Summary

Embark on an elegant journey along the Bosphorus, where Europe and Asia meet in breathtaking harmony. Accompanied by an expert multilingual guide, uncover Istanbul’s rich heritage from the comfort of the water, far from the city’s busy streets. This is a small-group cruise on a luxury yacht, crafte...

Inclusions
  • Free pick up service Old City and Taksim area
  • Savory pastry
  • Drop off service to Taksim or Sultanahmet Squares
  • Fresh seasonal fruit platter
  • Small sandwiches
  • Turkish coffee served with Turkish delight
Itinerary
  • Bosphorus Strait
  • Dolmabahce Palace
  • Ortakoy
  • Buyuk Mecidiye Camii
  • Bosphorus Bridge
  • Rumeli Fortress
  • Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
  • Kucuksu Pavilion
  • Beylerbi Parki
  • KIz Kulesi
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Blue Mosque
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • Galata Koprusu
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Misir Carsisi
  • Galata Tower
  • Galataport
  • Anadolu Hisari Fort
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Pick - up time from hotels is 1 hour before in general
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Bosphorus Sunset: An Enchanting Yacht Cruise in Istanbul

Bosphorus Sunset: An Enchanting Yacht Cruise in Istanbul

2.5 hrsFree cancellation
4.96 (1,207 reviews)
99.05%
0.95%
amazingHighly recommendamazing experience
Viator
$71
Book now
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Bosphorus Sunset: An Enchanting Yacht Cruise in Istanbul
Summary

Sail on board an elegant yacht that adds a touch of luxury to the fun. Cruise over the Bosphorus Strait to gaze out over the sprawling urban landscapes of the city, as you watch the sunset over the old city, Sultanahmet. Taking a small-group cruise, this is the most stylish and unique way to discov...

Inclusions
  • Hotel pick - up & drop off
  • Light snacks
  • Turkish baklava and small cookies
  • Fresh seasonal fruits
  • Fresh fruit juice during winter period and homemade lemanode during summer period
Exclusions
  • Alcoholic drinks
Itinerary
  • Bosphorus Strait
  • Dolmabahce Mosque
  • Dolmabahce Palace
  • Ortakoy
  • Buyuk Mecidiye Camii
  • Bosphorus Bridge
  • Galatasaray Island
  • Arnavutkoy
  • Bebek Sahili
  • Rumeli Fortress
  • Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
  • Kanlica Meydani
  • Anadolu Hisari
  • Kucuksu Pavilion
  • Vanikoy Camii
  • Kuleli Sahil
  • Beylerbeyi Palace
  • Kuzguncuk Sahili
  • Uskudar
  • KIz Kulesi
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • Blue Mosque
  • Galata Koprusu
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Halic
  • Galataport
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

21 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.96 (9,530 reviews)
97.07%
2.93%
all around awesomeknowledgeable guidevery knowledgeable
Viator
$100
Book now
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Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour
Summary

Visit highlights of Istanbul with your private tour guide in 1, 2 or 3 days with a flexible itinerary. Day 1 - Highlights of Topkapi Palace Museum, Byzantine Hippodrome / Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar. Day 2 - Bosphorus Cruise by Public Ferry, Dolmabahce Palace, Taksi...

Inclusions
  • Professional Licensed Guide
  • Private tour
  • Guide meets you at central hotels
Exclusions
  • Transportation (from/back to hotel, between sites unless van is booked)
  • Museum/Ferry/Cable Car Tickets
  • Lunch
  • Gratuity (suggested)
Itinerary
  • Sultanahmet District
  • Blue Mosque
  • German Fountain
  • Sultanahmet Square
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Grand Bazaar
  • Bosphorus Strait
  • Dolmabahce Palace
  • Taksim Square
  • Hippodrome
  • Istiklal Caddesi
  • Galata Tower
  • Misir Carsisi
  • Cicek Pasaji
  • Suleymaniye Mosque
  • Balat
  • Fener Rum Patrikhanesi
  • Historic Areas of Istanbul
  • Pierre Loti
  • Chora Museum
  • Halic
  • Bulgarian Orthodox Church
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, The suggested first-day tour is designed as a walking tour, with transportation needed only between the hotel and the Old Town if the hotel is outside old town., The suggested second-day tour can be easily managed by public transportation, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with alternatives such as Turkish And Islamic Arts Museum or Archaeological Museum or Basilica Cistern., If one of the mosques or museums is not visited, Basilica Cistern will be visited as a replacement., Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays and replaced with Spice Market., Dolmabahce Palace is closed on Mondays. Due to museum regulations, live guide service is not available at Dolmabahce Palace., For the tours that start later than 11 am, kindly note that you may have to skip one/a couple of sites as the sites are closed by 7 pm. Your guide will adjust the program according to your priorities., On Fridays, Blue Mosque will be visited in the afternoon., Grand Bazaar and Spice Market is closed during Eid. (March 20-22, May 27-30 in 2026)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour

ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour

8 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.95 (1,281 reviews)
95.68%
4.32%
fantasticHighly recommend this tourthoroughly recommend
Viator
$85
Book now
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ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour
Summary

Discover Ottoman and Byzantine history on this private Istanbul city tour, perfect for cruise passengers, first-time visitors, and travelers with limited time seeking a deeper cultural experience. Explore Istanbul’s Old City (Sultanahmet) with a private guide, visiting UNESCO World Heritage landmar...

Inclusions
  • Unique time to discover Turkish Handicrafts & Traditional Arts Gallery
  • Private Tour & Professional Guide
  • Guide will meet you at central Istanbul Hotels, Airbnb Locations or ISTANBUL CRUISE PORT GALATAPORT
Exclusions
  • Lunch and Gratuities (suggested)
  • Transfer by Vehicle (Depends on option selected)
  • Museums Entrance Fees
Itinerary
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • Blue Mosque
  • Hippodrome
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Sultanahmet District
  • Grand Bazaar
  • Sultanahmet District
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Specialized infant seats are available, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays can be replaced with alternatives., Grand Bazaar is closed on Sundays can be replaced with Spice Market., Ladies should bring scarf to cover heads, Confirmation will be received at time of booking, If the tour starts at 12:00, the duration of the tour is 6 hours., Period of Ramadan aid and sacrifice aid Grand baazar and spice market is closed
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Istanbul: Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour

Istanbul: Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour

4 hrs
4.86 (1,449 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$114
Book now
View Details
Istanbul: Topkapi, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour
Summary

Visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with pre-reserved tickets included. Experience the city’s top highlights with an expert guide on a small-group tour.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Tour

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Tour

3 hrs
4.86 (1,732 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$56
Book now
View Details
Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Tour
Summary

Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Basilica Cistern on a 3-hour guided tour. Explore in small groups with pre-reserved tickets included. Learn about Istanbul’s rich Ottoman and Byzantine history.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets

Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets

2.5 hrs
4.83 (3,700 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$38
Book now
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Istanbul: Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia Guided Tour w/ Tickets
Summary

Join a guided tour of the iconic monuments of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul with entry tickets. Benefit from expert guides, priority entry, and a more personal small-group experience.

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, & Old Town Walking Tour

Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, & Old Town Walking Tour

2.5 hrsEco-Friendly
4.83 (2,547 reviews)
GetYourGuide
$54$68
Book now
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Istanbul: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, & Old Town Walking Tour
Summary

Explore the heart of Istanbul on a guided tour of the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. Learn about the history of the city as you visit the Hippodrome and see the obelisks.

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

7 daysEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.81 (1,469 reviews)
91.08%
8.92%
will recommendvery good experienceexcellent customer service standards
Viator
$194
Book now
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Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line
Summary

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the contactless entry with your mobile pass without paying at the gate of attractions. Istanbul E-pass offers attractions in 4 different ways; - Walk-in At...

Inclusions
  • Instant digital Istanbul E-pass with access to over 100+ attractions, tours and activities
  • Professional Guidance in English for Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace
  • Day Trip Tours to Bursa City & Mount Uludag and Sapanca Lake & Masukiye
  • Whirling Dervishes Show
  • Free Istanbul Guidebook in 6 different languages:English, Arabic, Spanish, French, Russian, Croation
  • Bosphorus Cruise (daytime or sunset options available, with Dinner, Turkish Breakfast or Late Lunch)
  • Discounted Roundtrip Private Airport Transfer from/to Istanbul or Sabiha Gokcen Airports
Exclusions
  • Public Transportation
  • Pick up service except for Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and day trip attractions
  • Food and drinks, unless specified
Itinerary
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Dolmabahce Palace
  • Whirling Dervishes Istanbul
  • Hagia Irene Museum
  • Museum Of Illusions Istanbul
  • Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Turk ve Islam Eserleri Muzesi)
  • Bosphorus Strait
  • Beylerbeyi Palace
  • Chora Museum
  • Blue Mosque
  • Istanbul Archaeological Museum
  • Princes' Islands
  • CamlIca Kulesi - Camlica Tower
  • Istanbul Sapphire
  • Istanbul Akvaryum
  • Miniaturk
  • Sapanca Lake
  • Emaar Akvaryum & Sualti Hayvanat Bahcesi
  • Yildiz Palace Museum
  • Istanbul Museum of The History of Science & Technology in Islam
  • Galata Mevlevi Museum
  • Viasea Akvaryum
  • Panorama 1453 History Museum
  • Istanbul Robot Muzesi
  • Balat Oyuncak Muzesi
Good to know
  • Wheelchair accessible, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Transportation options are wheelchair accessible, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Passes are valid 2 years from the date of purchase
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More

Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More

9 hrsFree cancellation
4.95 (648 reviews)
96.41%
3.59%
experienced guidesimply amazingwonderful tour
Viator
$175
Book now
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Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More
Summary

This tour is a must in Istanbul with a small group with all the tickets included! You will begin the day with the German Fountain- a gift of Kaiser Wilhelm next to Roman Hippodrome, where the chariot races were organised and take place. Blue Mosque the only mosque with six minarets. Next, you will s...

Inclusions
  • Topkapı palace + Harem + Hagia Irene (Combine Tickets)Included! ’$62 USD’
  • All Fees and Taxes
  • English Speaking Professional Tour Guide
  • Hagia Sophia Ticket Included! ‘$28.5 USD’
Exclusions
  • Gratuities
Itinerary
  • German Fountain
  • Blue Mosque
  • Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque
  • Obelisk of Theodosius
  • Serpent Column
  • Hippodrome
  • Nakkas Oriental Rugs & Textiles
  • Grand Bazaar
  • TopkapI Palace
  • Hagia Irene Museum
  • Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Turk ve Islam Eserleri Muzesi)
  • Column of Constantine
  • Nuruosmaniye Camii
  • Jewelry Market
  • Sogukcesme Sokak
  • Divanyolu Street
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Specialized infant seats are available, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Ladies best bring a head scarf (if not available, it can be arranged during the tour)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

...

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya).

Hagia Irene (Aya Irini)
Learn more

Hagia Irene (Aya Irini)

150 m away • from $12

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)
Learn more

Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi)

200 m away • from $1.66

Sultanahmet District
Learn more

Sultanahmet District

200 m away • from $5

German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi)
Learn more

German Fountain (Alman Çeşmesi)

350 m away • from $3.5

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Across booking platforms, prices for Hagia Sophia experiences range widely from $26 to $470, with most options falling between $64 and $224 (median $117). This spread reflects different tour lengths, group sizes, and inclusions. Booking ahead is worth considering, as a majority of options offer free cancellation, giving you flexibility if plans change.

Private tours make up a notably large share of the options we compare: 46% of all listings are private experiences. This reflects strong demand for personalized visits to this iconic landmark. Private tours typically allow you to move at your own pace, skip crowds during peak times, and get a guide's full attention, which many travellers value when exploring such a historically significant site.

Yes, though skip-the-line options are less common here. About 11% of the tours we compare include skip-the-line access. These tend to be pricier and are worth booking in advance, especially during peak season. If queue times are a concern, a private guide or early-morning tour can also help you avoid the heaviest crowds.

Tours are available in 8 languages: English, Spanish, German, French, Italian, Russian, Japanese, and Turkish. English-language options are widely available, but if you prefer another language, filtering by your choice when comparing options will show you what's available across platforms.

Tour durations typically range from 2 to 9 hours, with a median of around 7 hours. Shorter options usually focus on the Hagia Sophia itself, while longer experiences often combine it with nearby sites like the Blue Mosque or Topkapi Palace. Check the itinerary to confirm what's included in your chosen duration.

Hagia Sophia tours are rated 4.64 stars on average, based on over 135,000 combined reviews across booking platforms. About 93% of reviews are positive, with visitors repeatedly praising tours as amazing, excellent, and highly recommending them. Reviewers frequently highlight knowledgeable guides as a standout feature, making the historical and architectural context of this UNESCO World Heritage site come alive.

Among the options we compare, 21% are tagged as eco-friendly, reflecting a notable presence of sustainable tour choices. Family-friendly options are less common at this landmark. If sustainability or family-focused experiences matter to you, filtering by these tags when comparing platforms will help you find tours aligned with your preferences.

Use the ferry system for scenic travel across the Bosphorus. Ferries are cheap, frequent, and offer stunning views. Alternatively, take the metro or buses for faster connections between continents.

Avoid Tarlabaschi and Aksaray late at night. Stick to Sultanahmet, Beyoglu, Besiktas, and Kadikoy for safety. These areas have good infrastructure, restaurants, and nightlife with many tourists around.

Budget 50-80 USD daily for budget travelers, 100-150 USD for mid-range visitors. Street food costs 2-5 USD, metro rides are 1 USD, and major attractions range from 8-20 USD per entry.

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