What Should You Know Before Visiting Hagia Sophia for the First Time?

Do You Need a Ticket to Visit Hagia Sophia in 2026?

Yes. Tourists require a ticket to visit Hagia Sophia. But they only have access to the upper galleries. They’ll have to purchase a ticket for that area. There is a separate entrance for locals who come to pray, and they do not need a ticket for the visitor areas.

You can buy tickets at the entrance. But to avoid waiting in line, book your tickets in advance. Tickets can be bought from official company web pages and other reputable sites. Planning can help you a lot!

When Is the Best Time to Visit Hagia Sophia?

Timing your visit is key to avoiding crowds and making the most of your experience.

Best Time of Day

• Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for fewer crowds and better lighting.
• Avoid Friday noon prayers, as access to the visitor area is restricted during this time.
• If you’re planning to visit other nearby sites, consider seeing Hagia Sophia first thing in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Best Time of Year

• Spring (April–May) and Fall (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
• Summer (June–August) can get very crowded and hot. If you’re visiting during this time, try to go early.
• Winter (November–March) sees fewer tourists, but the weather can be cold, and some parts of the site may be less accessible.

Dress Code and Mosque Etiquette at Hagia Sophia

Since Hagia Sophia is an active mosque, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully.

What to Wear

1. Women should cover their hair with a scarf and dress modestly (shoulders and knees should be covered). A long skirt or loose pants is preferred.
2. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves. It is best to avoid shorts or tank tops.

Additional Etiquette

1. Shoes should be removed before entering the prayer hall. You may not need to remove them in the visitor galleries, but it’s best to follow any instructions from staff.
2. Keep your voice low and try not to interrupt prayer times.
3. Don’t take photos of worshipers during prayer.

Being mindful of these guidelines will help you show respect for the mosque and its visitors.

What to Expect Inside Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia is a place of architectural wonder and historical depth. Here’s what to look for during your visit:

The Main Features

From the visitor path and galleries, you can anticipate:

• The dome, renowned as one of the most iconic architectural elements globally, measures 31 meters across and ascends 55 meters from the ground, creating a floating effect.
• Byzantine mosaics from the Christian period can be seen throughout the structure, showcasing images of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and several emperors, alongside Islamic calligraphy and elements from the Ottoman period.
• Inside, the mihrab, minbar, and wish column are important features, each carrying symbolic meaning.

Restoration in 2026

Hagia Sophia is undergoing restoration to preserve its structure and protect it from earthquakes. This is an essential step to make sure the historic site is safe for future generations. If you’re visiting Hagia Sophia any time soon, some views might be affected because of the different construction areas.

Practical Tips for Visiting Hagia Sophia in 2026

To ensure your visit goes smoothly, here are a few practical Hagia Sophia tips:

Allow Enough Time: Allow yourself 60 to 90 minutes to fully enjoy the mosque. Include time for tickets, security checks, and visiting the galleries.

Plan Your Route: Most visitors take the T1 tram to Sultanahmet and then walk a short distance to Hagia Sophia. If you’re staying nearby, walking is a great option. Arriving early helps you avoid the crowds.

Discover Istanbul’s iconic landmarks with the Sultanahmet Highlights Walking Tour. Visit Hagia Sophia and more. Join now and explore the heart of Istanbul!

Travel Light: Do not carry large bags with you. They may not be allowed, and you'll need to pass through security. A small bag with essentials (water, scarf, phone) will be enough.

Consider a Guide or Audio Guide: Hagia Sophia is a beautiful mosque. Using an audio guide or joining a Hagia Sophia guided tour tells you more about the history to improve your overall experience. You can download an audio guide app or meet the tour guide at the site.

Check Prayer Times: It’s important to check prayer schedules before your visit. This helps avoid interrupting prayer times. You can get more information at the front desk at your hotel or use apps for more details.

Conclusion: Is Hagia Sophia Worth Visiting?

In 2026, Hagia Sophia is still one of Istanbul's most famous landmarks, combining history, culture, and spirituality. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, entering this amazing place is a special experience. Exploring on your own? Joining a guided tour? Or using an audio guide? This Hagia Sophia first time guide will help you make lasting memories of one of the world’s most stunning sites.