| Day of the Week | Opening Hours | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Tuesday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Wednesday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Thursday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Friday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Saturday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
|
Sunday |
9:00 - 20:30 |
19:30
|
The mosque remains open 24/7 for prayers, accommodating its role as both a significant historical monument and an active place of worship under the Hagia Sophia Mosque.
Closing Days: Open all year round with no closing days, ensuring that both visitors and worshippers can always access the Hagia Sophia Mosque.
Weekdays: Visiting Hagia Sophia on weekdays generally means fewer crowds, offering a quieter and more serene experience. This is ideal if you prefer to explore the site at your own pace without much disturbance.
Weekends: The weekends at Hagia Sophia tend to be busier but also more vibrant, with various activities and events in the surrounding area of Sultanahmet Square. If you enjoy a lively atmosphere and don’t mind the additional people, weekends could be more enjoyable.
Best Months: The optimal months to visit Hagia Sophia are during the spring and autumn—specifically April, May, September, and October. During these times, the weather in Istanbul is usually mild, perfect for walking around and enjoying the outdoor beauty.
Crowds: These months also tend to be less crowded compared to the busy summer months, allowing for a more relaxed visit where you can truly appreciate the majestic beauty of Hagia Sophia without the hassle of navigating through large groups.
A basic tour of Hagia Sophia can take about 30 to 45 minutes, which is sufficient to see the main features of this Byzantine architectural marvel
If you choose a guided tour, expect to spend about an hour. Guides can offer deeper insights into the rich history and intricate details of the mosque, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the site.
Take your time to admire the stunning mosaics, detailed minarets, and Islamic inscriptions. Plan your visit outside of Hagia Sophia prayer times to ensure full access to all parts of the mosque, as Hagia Sophia is still an active place of worship and certain areas may be restricted during these times.
Hagia Sophia is open year-round but closes to non-worshippers during prayer times, accommodating both its role as a Hagia Sophia Museum and a mosque.
Yes, Hagia Sophia welcomes visitors daily, including all public holidays, maintaining its status as a significant cultural and architectural landmark.
The mosque is not accessible to non-worshippers during daily prayer hours and specifically during noon prayers on Fridays, which are particularly significant in the Islamic tradition.
A quick self-guided tour might take about 30 to 45 minutes. For a thorough exploration, particularly if you are interested in the historical and architectural aspects, a guided tour lasting approximately one hour is recommended.
The optimal time for a visit is during the winter when the weather is milder. Morning visits are less crowded, whether on weekdays or weekends. It’s advisable to avoid visiting on Fridays due to noon prayers.
While you can explore Hagia Sophia on your own, opting for a guided tour can enhance your experience, providing historical insights and priority access, helping you to avoid long queues.
Yes, Hagia Sophia is open on public holidays, but remember that it closes during prayer times throughout the year.
Pre-purchasing Hagia Sophia tickets is recommended to ensure a smooth visit. It not only saves time by avoiding long lines but also helps in planning your visit better.
Visiting Hagia Sophia in a large group is permissible. Group visits are common and can be arranged easily.
Yes, cancellations are typically possible. Check the specific terms and conditions of your booking for details on how to cancel and any applicable cancellation fees.
Luggage is not recommended at Hagia Sophia due to security and storage limitations. Store large items elsewhere to ensure a hassle-free visit.
