New Rules for Visiting Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia: What Travelers Should Know

Istanbul is a great city where cultures meet, blending the rich history of the East and West. This beautiful city has been the capital of three empires: Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman, leaving behind countless landmarks that tell stories of the past. Among these treasures, Hagia Sophia stands as a masterpiece and a symbol of architectural brilliance. Once a church, later a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, Hagia Sophia has fascinated visitors for centuries with its stunning mosaics, towering domes, and sacred ambiance. Hagia Sophia is a must-see destination in Istanbul for travelers eager to experience its rich history and spiritual significance.

Before we start to dig into the new visiting rules and guidelines, let’s explore the best way to visit Istanbul: the Istanbul Tourist Pass®. This all-in-one digital city pass allows you to skip long ticket lines and enjoy easy access to top attractions, the best Istanbul museums, and many more. With access to 100+ attractions, the Istanbul Tourist Pass® ensures a seamless and stress-free visit to Istanbul. It’s the perfect companion for travelers looking to make the most of their time in this incredible city while saving time and money.

Guidelines for Visiting Hagia Sophia

Visiting Hagia Sophia is an unforgettable experience, but to make the most of your time while respecting this sacred site, it’s important to follow a few key guidelines. Here are the main points to ensure a smooth and respectful visit to this masterpiece of the world:

Dress Code

As Hagia Sophia is an active mosque, visitors are required to dress modestly. Women should bring a headscarf to cover their hair, and both men and women should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. Scarves are also available for rent or purchase near the entrance if needed. You don't need to take your shoes off!

Visiting Hours

Hagia Sophia is open to visitors throughout the week, but it remains closed during prayer times. Check the current prayer schedule in advance to plan your visit accordingly if you don't want to wait for the prayers to end. Hagia Sophia is open to visitors every day, opening hours from 09:00 am to 7:30 pm in 2025. The visiting area of the mosque is closed to visitors between 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm due to Friday Prayers. 

Security Checks

All visitors must pass through a security check before entering Hagia Sophia. To save time, avoid carrying large bags or sharp items, as they may delay your entry. Please remember this, even though you have your tickets, you still have to go through the security check. Security checks are important in Turkey so stay calm and follow the instructions of the security guards. 

Respect the Sacred Atmosphere

Visitors should remain quiet and respectful during their time inside the mosque. Photography is allowed, but flash photography and disruptive behavior are discouraged to maintain the serene atmosphere of this beautiful mosque. Remember, people might be praying while you are visiting. 

Show&Go QR Tickets with Istanbul Tourist Pass®

With the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can skip the long ticket lines and enter Hagia Sophia seamlessly using the Show&Go technology. Simply generate your instant online QR ticket when you are close to Hagia Sophia, and after passing through security, enjoy access to the 2nd-floor visitor area at your own pace with the included audio guide.

Avoid Peak Hours

Hagia Sophia can get extremely crowded, especially during weekends and peak hours as well as other historical landmarks in Istanbul. To enjoy a quieter visit, plan to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon when crowds are smaller. Also on Fridays, the crowds are generally larger because it is a sacred day for Muslims. So consider visiting Hagia Sophia any other day. 

By only following these simple matters in the guidelines, you can fully enjoy the beauty and historical significance of Hagia Sophia while ensuring a smooth and respectful experience. 

Discover Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery: A Closer Look at the Highlights

The 2nd-floor upper gallery of Hagia Sophia offers a unique perspective on this architectural marvel, allowing visitors to admire its stunning details and enjoy the grandeur from above. Here’s what you can expect to discover during your visit to this fascinating section of the mosque:

The Magnificent Mosaics

One of the most captivating features of the upper gallery is its intricate Byzantine mosaics. These well-preserved masterpieces depict religious figures, including Christ Pantocrator, the Virgin Mary, and various emperors and saints. Take your time to fall in love with the gold-tiled mosaics that have survived centuries of change and restoration. The level of artistry and symbolism within these works is truly breathtaking for especially art lovers.