Istanbul Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Guided Tour with Tickets

Highlights

Itinerary

1. 1

   Sultanahmet Square

   Enjoy our priority admission with the tickets and join a 2-hour guided group tour in the heart of Istanbul’s old town Sultanahmet to see the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. Discover the history of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires with entry tickets.

   Pass by (no stop)•Admission free•See on map

2. 2

   Basilica Cistern

   Follow your guide, and he will help you pass with priority tickets. Start your journey with the Basilica Cistern, also known as the "Subterranean Palace."

   Discover its history, see the underground pillars, and learn about Byzantine architecture. Walk on wooden walkways over the water and view the famous upside-down Medusa heads.

   40 minutes•Admission included•See on map

3. 3

   Hagia Sophia

   Next, visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. Listen from your guide as you explore the interior, learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the stunning monument and its mixed elements mosque and a church coexisting side by side. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome, minarets, countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Discover how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was created, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard.

   1 hour•Admission included•See on map

4. 4

   Hippodrome

   Walk the length of the Hippodrome and enjoy a scenic stroll around Sultanahmet as local life goes on around you. Ask about the obelisks that adorn the square. Pause for a last glance at these two important monuments while you learn the significance of the Hippodrome to Istanbul during the Byzantine era.

   15 minutes•Admission free•See on map

5. 5

   Sultanahmet Square

   Concluding in Sultanahmet Square, our tour leaves you equipped with ample knowledge and insights to navigate the enchanting streets of Istanbul independently. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of this historic city.

   Pass by (no stop)•Admission free•See on map

Meeting point

We will meet at Galataport Clock Tower Square, next to the clock tower. Your guide will be holding a sign that says "Walks In Europe." Address: Kılıçali Paşa, Gümrük Muhafaza Kısım Amirliği No:5, 34433 Beyoğlu/İstanbul

The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

Pickup

• Everyone meets at the start point

Know before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• You will have to pass through airport-style security.
• Hagia Sophia may be closed unannounced due to high-level state visits.
• If Basilica Cistern is closed we visit Şerefiye (cistern of Theodosius) or Binbirdirek (Cistern of Philoxenos).
• Expect long lines to enter the Hagia Sophia, especially during holidays.
• Basilica Cistern has 50 steps going down and then up. There is no lift.
• Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
• Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes.
• Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
• The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and people with reduced mobility.
• Please note that both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
• Please note that women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
• Please note that wearing or displaying any specific religious symbols or attire is not permitted.
• You are not allowed to bring signs, symbols, banners, flags, documents, drawings, or any materials representing political, ideological, or religious beliefs inside the Hagia Sophia.
• Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
• Please note that the 'Starting from Galata Port' option is available only for cruise guests.
• Please note that children under 7 are not permitted on this tour.
• Please note that skip-the-line access is available for adults only. Children under the age of 7 do not benefit from this access.
• Please note that Hagia Sophia is currently undergoing restoration, which may temporarily affect visibility in some areas. These works are carried out independently of the tour.
• Mobile or paper ticket accepted
• One per booking
• Please meet your guide and join the tour. Your voucher is not an admission ticket. Your guide will have the necessary pre-reserved tickets with them.

Cancellation and refunds

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