Hagia Sophia Guide: History, Entry Fees & How to Visit

Istanbul has been the homeland for various cultures throughout the years. Hagia Sophia is one of the major cultural sites that displays the historical richness of the city. It rises above Istanbul’s historic peninsula as a building that has shaped empires, inspired architects, and humbled generations of travelers. Hagia Sophia is not only a place to visit but to experience. From the moment you see its vast dome framed by slender minarets, you'll understand why millions call it the very soul of the city.

We will provide you with everything you need for your visit in this guide. Our guide contains the epic Hagia Sophia history, the latest updates on Hagia Sophia tickets 2025 and entry rules, what to see in Hagia Sophia, and suggestions for nearby attractions for you to enhance your trip.

Why Hagia Sophia Is Istanbul’s Most Iconic Landmark

Istanbul is full of incredible monuments including Topkapi Palace, the Blue Mosque, and Dolmabahçe Palace. Hagia Sophia is one of those historical monuments that tells the story of Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia is popular for its massive dome which is 55 meters high and appears to float weightlessly above the central nave. Sunlight filters through its 40 arched windows and creates a beautiful illusion of a halo. The pitch-perfect acoustic can make your whispers travel across the hall. Stepping into Hagia Sophia still feels like a wonder even after centuries of earthquakes, wars, and reconstructions.

Why Hagia Sophia attracts millions every year

Hagia Sophia Istanbul is visited by many tourists and natives each year. Millions of people pass through its doors because they are drawn by the unique coexistence of Christian and Islamic heritage. Pilgrims, tourists, architects, and historians all find something here that resonates with them.

It is a mosque where the prayers echo daily for spiritual visitors while there are also galleries of Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman design for art lovers. History enthusiasts can imagine the stage of coronations, conquests, and revolutions when they visit this amazing monument as well.

This universal appeal is why Hagia Sophia is consistently ranked among the most striking landmarks worldwide.

Hagia Sophia History – From Church to Mosque to Museum and Back

Hagia Sophia’s story is a tapestry woven through centuries. You can look into Hagia Sophia's history to understand Istanbul's history itself.

Emperor Justinian I commissioned Hagia Sophia in 532 AD. Both great architects and geometers, Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus employed revolutionary techniques, creating a dome that seemed to defy gravity. The construction ended in 537 AD. This fascinating structure is considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture because of the innovations it brought about.

Hagia Sophia was built to surpass every other church in the world. For almost 1,000 years, it served as the main cathedral of Eastern Orthodoxy, the largest cathedral at that time. Emperors were crowned here, councils were held here, and its mosaics which were gilded with gold and lapis lazuli and set the standard for sacred art.

The first transformation of Hagia Sophia was done by the Ottoman Empire. In 1453, Constantinople was conquered by Sultan Mehmed II who converted Hagia Sophia into a mosque. Four minarets were added to its corners along with a mihrab pointing toward Mecca and a grand chandelier began to illuminate the vast interior. The Ottomans respected its architectural genius. The most famous architect of the Ottoman Empire, Mimar Sinan the Grand Architect used it as an inspiration for his later masterpieces like the Süleymaniye Mosque.

After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, modern Turkey was founded. In 1935, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk transformed Hagia Sophia into a museum that welcomed all. In 2020, Hagia Sophia’s role changed once again. It was reclassified as a mosque, though it remains open to visitors of all faiths. Today, it serves a dual purpose: an active place of worship and a cultural monument. This uniqueness in combining these two religions makes Hagia Sophia a symbol of cultural coexistence.

This layered history makes Hagia Sophia one of the few places in the world where you can see the story of different civilizations in one place.

Hagia Sophia Entry Fees & Tickets in 2025

If you’re planning to visit Hagia Sophia on your trip to Istanbul, here’s what to know about Hagia Sophia tickets 2025.

You don't need to pay the Hagia Sophia entry fee if you plan to pray. However, tourists are expected to pay a modest fee for certain parts, such as the upper galleries to help preserve the site.

The lines can last for hours, especially in summer. Therefore, purchasing a skip the line Hagia Sophia ticket online is highly recommended. Please remember that a separate ticket is required to access the upper gallery of Hagia Sophia.

If you would like to learn more about Hagia Sophia, consider having a guide with you. As Citio, we offer travelers guided tours of Hagia Sophia. Our guided tours transform your visit from sightseeing into storytelling. You’ll hear about Justinian’s ambition, Mehmed’s conquest, and the engineering secrets behind the dome as you're wandering around this astonishing building simultaneously. You can purchase your Hagia Sophia guided tour in Citio to be more knowledgeable about its history.

It can also be a good idea to consider purchasing a ticket that combines Hagia Sophia with nearby attractions like the Basilica Cistern or Topkapi Palace if you're planning to experience more of Istanbul. This not only saves time but also gives you an enhanced picture of Istanbul’s heritage.

How to Visit Hagia Sophia – Practical Guide

Hagia Sophia is located in Sultanahmet Square which can be regarded as the heart of the historic peninsula. It’s easily accessible by tram (T1 line, Sultanahmet stop). It’s just a short ride or even a scenic walk from popular areas like Eminönü, Sirkeci, or Karaköy.

The best time for visiting Hagia Sophia depends on your expectations. It is less crowded in the morning. You can also catch a softer light for your photographs. However, visiting in the evening can also be a great idea to experience the magical golden hour as the sun sets over Sultanahmet. Although Hagia Sophia is not open at night, it still has a breathtaking illuminated sight.

The ground floor is wheelchair accessible, but note that the upper galleries require climbing steep stairs. For families with children, strollers are not practical inside. Baby carriers are more convenient.

What to See Inside Hagia Sophia

Once you are inside Hagia Sophia, slow down and look closely since every detail has a meaning.

The magnificent dome is a marvel of engineering since it appears as if it floats above the nave. After you have had a good look at the dome, direct your gaze to the unique mosaics. The Virgin and Child, the Deesis mosaic of Christ, and portraits of emperors are some of the highlights. There are also calligraphy medallions that bear the names of God, Muhammad, and the first caliphs.

The monolithic marble columns embellish the incredible interior design of the building. These rich decorations and immaculate design hosted important events as well. The Omphalion was the coronation spot of Byzantine emperors. You can stand here and imagine the grandeur of imperial ceremonies.

Upper galleries offer panoramic views of the nave and a closer look at the mosaics. However, accessing these galleries may require an additional ticket in 2025.

Things to Do Near Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia resides in one of the most historical locations of Istanbul, so don’t rush away right after you see it.

Exploring Sultanahmet Square

You can take a walk in Sultanahmet Square which is right outside Hagia Sophia. You’ll find a lively square filled with monuments like the German Fountain, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and street vendors selling roasted chestnuts and simit. Take a moment to sit and admire the perfect symmetry between Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Combining Hagia Sophia with Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern

The Blue Mosque is located directly opposite Hagia Sophia. This mosque is famous for its six minarets and blue Iznik tiles. Its architect, Sedefkar Mehmet Agha, was inspired by Hagia Sophia's unique architecture. There is also an enchanting underground water reservoir near Hagia Sophia. A few steps away, Basilica Cistern offers a cool contrast to the grandeur above ground.

Hagia Sophia will change the way you see Istanbul and perhaps even the way you see the world. However, you might feel lost in making a comprehensive plan to explore all these cultural sites at once. At Citio, we know that arranging a tour all by yourself while traveling can be overwhelming. Since 2022, we’ve been helping visitors discover Istanbul’s treasures with ease. We can assist you in all steps of your travel plan whether it is booking Hagia Sophia tours, securing skip the line Hagia Sophia tickets, or planning day trips around Sultanahmet.

Contact us here to start planning your unforgettable Istanbul journey with us.

Hagia Sophia FAQ 2025

Is Hagia Sophia free to enter in 2025?
Yes, it’s free for prayer. Tourists, however, should expect a small Hagia Sophia entry fee for certain parts like the upper galleries.