Hagia Sophia is the 6th-century Byzantine basilica that became an Ottoman mosque, then a museum, and is now a working mosque again. The ground-floor prayer hall is free for visitors during non-prayer hours; the upper gallery (where the Byzantine mosaics are visible) requires a paid ticket. The mosaics survived the Ottoman conversion under plaster and were restored in the 20th century — the Christ Pantocrator above the apse is the single most-photographed image in the building. Modest dress is required: shoulders and knees covered; women need a head covering inside (provided at entry).
Ticket
€25 (upper gallery)
Visit time
45–90 minutes
Type
religious
UNESCO
World Heritage Site
When to visit
Early morning before 9am; closed during prayer times
Skip-the-line tip
Hagia Sophia's ticket line for the upper gallery can run 45+ minutes in summer. Pre-book online via the official Müze Pass app or join a guided tour with included skip-the-line. Avoid Friday lunchtime when prayer service closes the building 12–2pm.
Tours including Hagia Sophia
Frequently asked questions
How much does Hagia Sophia cost?
The upper gallery (where the Byzantine mosaics are visible) costs €25. The ground-floor prayer hall is free for visitors during non-prayer hours; modest dress is required.
When is Hagia Sophia closed?
Hagia Sophia closes for the five daily Islamic prayer times — typically 30 minutes around each. The Friday lunchtime prayer (around 12–2pm) is the longest closure. Plan visits for early morning or late afternoon.
What should I wear to visit Hagia Sophia?
Modest dress required: shoulders and knees covered for everyone; women need a head covering inside. Wraps and head scarves are provided at the entrance for visitors who arrive without.
Is Hagia Sophia worth visiting?
Yes — it is one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the world, layered with Byzantine and Ottoman history in a single space. Plan 45–90 minutes, longer if you want to study the mosaics in the upper gallery.