Hagia Sophia, one of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul, attracts millions of visitors each year with its stunning architecture and rich history. If you’re planning a visit in 2025, this guide provides essential information on Hagia Sophia entrance fees, visiting hours, must-see highlights and practical tips for the best experience.
What is Hagia Sophia? A Brief History of its Significance
Hagia Sophia, located in the heart of Istanbul and built in 537 AD by Byzantine Emperor Justinian I, was the largest Christian cathedral in the world for nearly a thousand years. In 1453, following the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople, it was converted into a mosque and became a symbol of Islamic culture.
Between 1935 and 2020, it functioned as a museum before being reconverted to a mosque. With its massive dome, unique mosaics and rich history, Hagia Sophia stands as a masterpiece of both Byzantine and Ottoman architecture.
Hagia Sophia Entrance Fee 2025
As of 2025, the entrance fee to Hagia Sophia is 25 Euros for adult visitors. However, entrance is free for children under 8 years old. While the mosque is free for worshippers, tourists are required to pay the entrance fee to explore the building and its stunning architecture.
Hagia Sophia Visiting Hours 2025
The visiting hours for Hagia Sophia depend on prayer times, as it is an active place of worship.
General Visiting Hours are 09:00 AM to 07:00 PM. You should avoid visiting during prayer times, particularly Friday noon prayers, which usually last 1-2 hours.
How to Get to Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia is located in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet District, in the city’s historic old town, and is easily accessible by various means of transportation.
- If you’re using public transportation, the T1 tram line is a convenient option – Sultanahmet stop is just a short walk from the mosque.
- You can also take the M2 metro line to Vezneciler station, and transfer to the T1 tram line for a quick connection.
- Taxis are widely available throughout the city, and for a more comfortable experience, you can opt for a private tour with a private vehicle and driver.
- If you’re staying nearby, the mosque is also easily reachable on foot, along with other nearby attractions like the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace.
What to See Inside Hagia Sophia?
Hagia Sophia is a unique fusion of Christian and Islamic elements. One of the most impressive features is the massive dome, which spans over 31 meters and stands as a stunning example of Byzantine engineering.
Another part to admire are the ancient Byzantine mosaics, which depict Christian figures such as the Virgin Mary, Jesus, and various emperors.
The mosque is also adorned with large circular panels of Arabic calligraphy, displaying the names of Allah, the Prophet Muhammad, and the caliphs. Other Islamic features, like the Mihrab and Minbar, are essential for prayer.
Don’t miss the Weeping Column, a famous spot believed to have healing powers; many visitors place their fingers in its hole, hoping to make a wish come true.
Best Time to Visit Hagia Sophia
To avoid the crowds, it’s best to arrive early in the morning, when the site is quieter. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. The mild weather in April-May and September-October makes exploring Hagia Sophia and the surrounding areas more enjoyable.
Non-worshipping visitors should respect prayer times and avoid visiting during Friday prayers.
Tips for Visiting Hagia Sophia
- Since Hagia Sophia is a functioning mosque, visitors are expected to follow certain rules.
- Both men and women should dress modestly—women are required to wear a headscarf, which can be borrowed at the entrance.
- It’s also important to remove your shoes before entering. Joining a guided tour is highly recommended, as it provides valuable insights into the historical and architectural significance of Hagia Sophia.
Since the mosque is located near other important sites such as the Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace, consider visiting all these sites during a full day Old city tour.Hagia Sophia is a must-see landmark. With this updated Hagia Sophia entrance hours and tips for 2025, you’re ready to plan your visit.
