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Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace: Entry + Guided Tour

4.7
(17 verified reviews)•Operator: Walks In Europe
Hagia Sophia mosaics explained by the tour guide
© Walks In Europe
Duration4 h
Arrive before10 min
Smartphone Tickets
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Live GuideEN

About

Prepare for a tour of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul to learn about Byzantine and Ottoman history.

Start at the Basilica Cistern, walking on wooden platforms above the water.

Visit Hagia Sophia and see its transformation from a Greek Orthodox church to a mosque.

Reach the Topkapi Palace and explore its buildings, pavilions, and courtyards.

Listen to the guide, who will share insights into life in the Ottoman Empire, and explore the Harem at your own pace after the tour ends.

What's Included

  • Entry tickets for Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern
  • Licensed guide
  • Audio headset

What's Not Included

  • Transfers
  • Food and drinks

Must Know

  • Women must wear a headscarf in the mosque
  • Knees and shoulders must be covered
  • The Basilica Cistern has 50 steps and no lift, making it unfit for wheelchairs and those with mobility issues
  • Children under 7 are not permitted on this tour

Instructions

1

On-site usage

  • Meet your guide at Ersoy Bufe, a small food kiosk by the Hippodrome in Sultanahmet Square, across from the German Fountain
  • The guide will be in front of Ersoy Bufe with a Walks in Europe sign
  • Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the tour starts
2

After your visit

  • Tickets are timed and expire within 5 to 10 minutes; you cannot join the tour after it has started
  • You will need to pass through airport-style security
  • Expect long lines to enter Hagia Sophia, especially during holidays

Meeting Point

At Meydanı Caddesi no:40, Istanbul

GPS:41.00698, 28.97597

Get There

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı 1, 34122 Fatih Istanbul, Turkey, Istanbul

34122

Reschedule and cancellation policy

Cancel for free until 1 day before your scheduled timeslot and get a full refund.

From
€234.00
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Free Cancellation

Cancel for free until 1 day before your scheduled timeslot and get a full refund.

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