Hagia Sophia Mosque

5.0

6814 ratings

Rate this place

Андросов

Level 21 Local Expert

Absolute architectural marvel that leaves you speechless. Even with the 25 EUR entry fee per person, the experience of witnessing such history is worth every cent. While the ground floor is currently reserved for worshipers and visitors are guided through the magnificent upper galleries, the perspective from above is actually breathtaking. You get a unique, bird's-eye view of the stunning mosaics and the massive dome. The atmosphere is solemn and grand a true bucket-list destination that lives up to its legendary reputation!

Полина Максименко

Level 7 Local Expert

Вся в лесах - внутри и снаружи. Интернет мобильный внутри еле работает (больше нигде таких проблем не было), вайфай еле работает - аудиогид считай не работает от слова совсем. Цена 50€ высокая, а смотреть по сути не чего - только строительные леса Очень разочарована Оно того не стоит

Lima Maksud

Level 7 Local Expert

Hagia Sophia is one of the most impressive places I’ve ever visited❤️. The building is huge and stunning inside and out, with so much history behind it. The mix of cultures and architecture makes it really unique. It can be a bit crowded, but it’s absolutely worth it — a must-visit when you’re in Istanbul.

Curdin

Level 26 Local Expert

Even just from the outside, Hagia Sophia is breathtaking. A true architectural marvel with deep historical significance. While I haven’t been inside yet, its exterior alone makes it worth the visit. There’s often some construction around, but it doesn’t take away from the majestic atmosphere.

Алёна Бословякова

Level 14 Local Expert

Очень давно мечтала посетить. Это чистая история.

Евгений О.

Level 8 Local Expert

Mosque is in a very bad conditions and needs serious reconstruction, also prices for visit are very high.

Angelika

Level 8 Local Expert

Visiting Hagia Sophia in Istanbul is an unforgettable experience. The grandeur of the temple, the fusion of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures, the beauty of mosaics, and the play of light create a unique atmosphere. A must-visit place for history and art lovers.

винерия

там моё имя ну да меня зовут София и место очень нравится

ProExpert [subscribe]

Level 29 Local Expert

A breathtaking monument blending Byzantine and Ottoman history. Located in Sultanahmet; easily reachable by tram (Sultanahmet stop).

Lazizbek Ergashev

Level 14 Local Expert

Hagia Sophia is a legendary place, no description needed. The only thing to note is that it is currently under reconstruction in some areas. I went inside mainly for prayer and the experience was great, calm, and very meaningful.

Tania

Level 30 Local Expert

Very unpleasant staff! We went as a group of 10 adults and we were followed by a lady from the security, who was picking on absolutely everything: we were looking at the wrong way and standing in the wrong place, we were asked to move, while in the same aisle there was a huge group with a guide. And so the whole tour we were harassed, criticised and pressed. We were covered, did not break the rules, behaved culturally and talked quietly. In the end, the lady called the head of security, and then we couldn't stand it and got indignant. The lady was never able to explain what rules we had broken and what she didn't like. After paying 25 euros we were subjected to reprisals. This is not hospitable and absolutely inappropriate! Shame on you, security staff. Don't overstep your authority by hating people based on nationality or religion.

rsni

Level 21 Local Expert

Amazing place, no words needed

Daria

Level 10 Local Expert

Beautiful!

Konstantin Pol

Level 9 Local Expert

Marvelous historical site for every age and every preferences

Mme Tanoh

Level 12 Local Expert

Didn't get inside but the view is so magnificent. Will come again another day

Gokhan Ayalp

Level 8 Local Expert

Magnificient

мария федотова

Level 6 Local Expert

beautiful

Инкогнито 2823

Level 4 Local Expert

Muhammed Boğatekin

Level 5 Local Expert

Aya Sophia MOSQUE, forever...

Hakan Dilan

Level 8 Local Expert

No wonder it’s one of the wonders of the world

Бердиёр Яхшиликов

Level 4 Local Expert

Beautiful mosque with its old fashion

Shohruh Rahmatillayev

Level 4 Local Expert

So beautiful and historical place

Глеб Глинка

Level 8 Local Expert

Unfriendly…

Suleman Ahmed

Level 3 Local Expert

Very Historic Mosque

Armine Khachatryan

Level 9 Local Expert

It’s a must visit place!

Abraham

Level 8 Local Expert

So dangerous to be there. There are a lot of street sellers and pickpockets around.

Osman Abdurashytov

Level 9 Local Expert

Magnificent

sandsn

Level 15 Local Expert

History

White Sun

Level 12 Local Expert

I recently visited the Hagia Sophia Mosque, and I want to share my impressions of this amazing place. From the very entrance, you can feel a special atmosphere steeped in history and grandeur. The architecture of the mosque impresses with its beauty and monumentality — a huge building with elegant domes and amazing detailed decoration, which seems to transport you to another era. Special attention is paid to the interior decoration: magnificent mosaics, calligraphy and exquisite ornaments on the walls create the impression of a real work of art. I was fascinated by the harmony of chiaroscuro, when the rays of the sun gently penetrated through the stained glass windows, filling the space with warmth and peace. This place seems to invite you to stop, think and feel connected to something more. In addition to its architectural and artistic qualities, the mosque enjoys an atmosphere of calm and respect. Visitors of various cultures and faiths find here the opportunity for prayer and meditation, which underlines the importance of Hagia Sophia as a symbol of unity and tolerance. The staff is very friendly and always ready to help, which makes the visit even more comfortable and enjoyable. I would also like to note the excellent location of the mosque: there are many green areas around where you can relax after the tour and enjoy the surrounding nature. Overall, visiting the Hagia Sophia Mosque left me with the warmest and most inspiring impressions. This is not just a historical monument, but a living testimony of centuries-old culture and spirituality that everyone should definitely see. I recommend it to anyone who appreciates beauty, history and the atmosphere of sincere inner peace.

See original · Русский

Helena

Level 14 Local Expert

This is an amazing place with a lot of history.The interior is striking for its beauty and grandeur. Mosaics, frescoes and columns are impressive. There are a lot of tourists during the high season. Entrance is now paid and there are long queues for tickets. Well, it's worth it, it's a must-visit place for those who come to Istanbul for the first time. It's better to come early in the morning or closer to closing time if you want to see more details and watch everything calmly .

See original · Русский

Ирина Кузина

Level 17 Local Expert

We visited the museum in May, during the reconstruction. All the guides dissuaded us from going, they say you won't see anything, there are only forests there. Don't believe it, go early, while there are few people before 11 o'clock. There's a lot to see, the balcony is great. The building itself has thick walls and antique stairs. I was very impressed.

See original · Русский

Катерина Родина

Level 29 Local Expert

It is a very beautiful mosque , unfortunately it is currently undergoing restoration . Inside, the atmospheric twilight, everything in the forests, hanging chandeliers, is mesmerizing. Magnificent antique mosaics, the only but significant disadvantage is the paid entrance. Moreover, it is quite high for foreigners. And a strict security check at the entrance. They find fault with literally everything according to the dress code. Therefore, in order not to spend extra money, wear long-skirted clothes and cover your head. Skirts and scarves are not allowed at the entrance

See original · Русский

Никита Родзевич

Level 30 Local Expert

The 4 rating is more related to the price and organization of ticket purchase rather than the location itself. We got here in a terrible storm, all the self-service machines weren't working, and we were soaked through by the time we could get inside. The ticket for the balcony is 1300 lire, the ticket for visiting the entire museum complex is 2400 lire. Maybe I'm spoiled by Moscow's museum prices, but it was expensive for me. The mosque itself is a beautiful place, but now part of the interior is not visible, it is blocked by forests.

See original · Русский

Level 25 Local Expert

It was December 25. The mosque is under restoration, everything inside is covered in scaffolding. Tickets can be purchased for lira or euro. Only the area from the circular balcony is available for inspection. The main dome is only partially visible, and photos cannot be taken due to the huge scaffolding in the center! I recommend passing after 15.00, there is no queue anymore!

See original · Русский

Vitaly S

Level 23 Local Expert

I'm writing a review on fresh tracks. I visited this place today and was disappointed both by the overall impression and the pricing. Firstly, the building is under renovation both inside and out. You won't see a beautiful huge dome with paintings, and everything you've seen online. You will only see the scaffolding covering the entire interior. The visit itself is an entrance to the second floor, a passage through a semicircle with several murals on the walls and down to the exit. This is the whole room. If you visit any cathedral in our country, the interior will be much more beautiful - icons, murals, gold leaf. You won't see anything like this here, except that the building has little historical value. Secondly, pricing. I paid 5,200 Turkish lira for an adult and a child of 9 years old, which is about 100 euros. The money paid does not correspond in any way to the pleasure received. Yes, the ticket price includes a museum with an audio tour. But, you just walk for 30 minutes through the corridors, where the projector does not display the highest quality animation on the white walls. They will tell a story that can be studied more thoroughly on the Internet and view more historical files. I would hardly come here again. For example, the tour of the Pechora Monastery was much more interesting, the interior of both the monastery and the territory is really impressive.

See original · Русский

Мария Б.

Level 3 Local Expert

Visited on 02/18/26. At the time of the visit, everything is in the woods, both outside and inside. The ticket costs 25 euros (about 1300 liras) per person. The ticket office will offer you a ticket for 50 euros (2,600) per person. You will be convinced that for 25 euros you will not see anything and will not go anywhere. Don't be fooled! The system is as follows: a ticket "to the balcony" costs 25 euros (which is what you need), and a ticket "to the church" costs another 25 euros. You need a ticket to the balcony. Insist, no matter how they convince you at the checkout. For this price, you will go to the second floor of the cathedral. You will be able to see the first floor, the altar part, the mosaic from above, and walk around the second floor itself. In fact, you will see almost everything. Don't forget to turn on the audio guide - it connects for free using a QR code, which is very interesting and available in Russian. The codes are inside the cathedral, you will see the stands are red. Please note that the cathedral inside is also in the woods. The dome is overstretched, you can't see it. For a ticket to the church, you also get the same second floor + audio guide (why? It's free)+entrance to the Sofia History Museum (a separate building, not the fact that you really need it, read about it separately) + perhaps a passage to the first floor (I'm not sure that's really the case, since we didn't see the exit there. But there were people there). We went for 25 euros and are very satisfied. We saw everything that was possible, taking into account the restoration work and the partial closure of the cathedral.

See original · Русский

Седа

Level 17 Local Expert

Special thanks for the beauty of the cathedral itself, but the price, expectation and reality did not match at all, unfortunately. Admission is paid for tourists and Christians, they are not allowed on the ground floor ( only Muslims are allowed for free). I was very unpleasantly struck by this fact, you won't understand if it's a museum or a mosque in the end. The price of the issue is 2600 liras. Plus, repairs are underway inside, and construction columns have been erected everywhere, which no one has warned about. I do not recommend visiting for this price now, perhaps the situation will be better after the renovation.

See original · Русский

WillieM Kok$

Level 19 Local Expert

An Istanbul captive with a thousand-year history of Orthodoxy🇬🇷 Aya‑Sofia in Istanbul is not just an architectural marvel, but a living witness to the epochs, the interweaving of cultures and beliefs. This is a place where stone walls preserve the memory of thousands of years, and each element of the interior tells its own story. Historical breathing Built in 537 as the main Orthodox church of Byzantium, Ayia‑Sofia has gone through three eras: Byzantine — when Orthodox chants sounded under its arches, and mosaics with the faces of saints shone with gold; Ottoman — after 1453, the temple turned into a mosque, supplemented with minarets and Arabic calligraphy.; Modern — in the 20th century it became a museum, and since 2020 it has been functioning as a mosque again. What is striking inside The dome is a miracle: The diameter is 31 m, creating the illusion of "floating" thanks to 40 windows at the base. Byzantine mosaics: Despite partial losses, the images have been preserved. Jesus Christ, the Mother of God and saints, executed with amazing subtlety. Contrasts of styles: Christian crosses are side by side with Muslim medallions, and marble columns (some brought from ancient temples) They add a sense of eternity Atmosphere Even today, when Muslim prayers are heard in the halls, the spirit of the ancient Constantinople. The traces of the past are especially touching: indentations in the floor from the knees of the worshippers; half-erased frescoes, as if trying to "speak out" their lost history; the play of light through stained glass windows, reminiscent of the Byzantine love for the symbolism of light as The divine presence. Aya‑Sofia is not a museum or just a temple. This is a dialogue of times where Orthodoxy, Islam and world heritage coexist in a single space. Here you can not only see the history, but also feel its weight, silence and grandeur. Be sure to visit — but get ready for emotions that will stay with you for a long time or forever...

See original · Русский

Максим Карочкин

Level 30 Local Expert

St. Sophia's Cathedral leaves an unforgettable impression. The grand dome, the rich historical heritage and the unique combination of Byzantine and Ottoman architecture create a truly special atmosphere. This is a place where you feel the greatness of history and culture, regardless of your views and interests.

See original · Русский

Татьяна Яшкова

Level 11 Local Expert

It's absolutely not worth the money, everything inside is covered in forests, a canvas is stretched instead of a dome, nothing is visible. Only believers are allowed on the ground floor. It makes sense to visit only in 40 years, when the restoration is over, or now, if you really need to. If you come after the Blue Mosque, you will be disappointed. It is a historically important place, but in the condition it is in now, it is not worth even 5 euros.

See original · Русский

Letoff

Level 18 Local Expert

Hagia Sophia is more than just a museum or a mosque. It's 1,500 years of history under one roof. The scale is amazing: when you go inside and raise your head to the huge dome, it seems that it is floating in the air. The feeling is unreal. The interiors breathe history: here you can see both Byzantine mosaics with gold and Islamic calligraphy, which peacefully coexist with each other. The mosaics on the upper galleries are especially impressive (entrance is paid, but worth it).

See original · Русский

Andrei

Level 23 Local Expert

It is a beautiful building, interesting architecture and a reflection of its time, but the building has been turned into a mosque inaccessible to free visits, men and women are required to observe a dress code and pay a lot of money for a ticket. As a result, my wife and I didn't go inside, but we took some pretty cool pictures outside, it's an epic building. It would be better if there were a free museum of atheism. There are funny cats around. A beautiful structure with interesting architecture that reflects its era, but the building has been turned into a mosque that is not freely accessible. Both men and women are required to follow a dress code and pay a high entrance fee. In the end, my wife and I did not go inside, but we took some great photos outside — it is an epic building. It would be better if it were a free museum of atheism. There are also some cute cats around.

See original · Русский

Виктория Фролова

Level 8 Local Expert

It is not worth visiting at all. They ruined such a Cathedral. The temple was built in 537! Muslims pray on the ground floor and so that they cannot see, the image on the 2nd floor was covered with scaffolding). A little brainstorming and that's it....really everything. Pay 2500 rubles per person! for seeing how the temple was ruined. We expected more. Such bullying is not necessary for nothing. Mosques at every turn, why spoil it, in a word, savages.

See original · Русский

Валери

Level 10 Local Expert

It's a very beautiful building, it's a pity that historically, some of the frescoes were covered with a coating and now they won't be viewed. There are a lot of people, huge queues, both day and night)

See original · Русский

Екатерина Лоева

Level 10 Local Expert

The magnificent architectural monument of Byzantium, built by decree of Emperor Justinian l in 532, is located in the heart of Istanbul. Its grandeur and size are amazing, but the condition of the interior leaves much to be desired. The faces of the saints on the walls and domes are almost lost. Currently, restoration is underway, and only a part of the monument is accessible.

See original · Русский

Alla K.

Level 7 Local Expert

Hagia Sophia is not just a tourist attraction, but the real heart of Istanbul. Once inside, you immediately feel the grandeur and the centuries-old history of this place. Grandiose domes, ancient mosaics, the play of light through the windows — all this makes a very strong impression. It is especially pleasant that the spirit of different eras has been preserved here: traces of both Christian and Islamic culture are visible. It's a place where you can spend a lot of time looking at details and reflecting on the past. Even if you are not very religious, Hagia Sophia impresses with its architecture and atmosphere. I advise you to arrive early to avoid long queues. And be sure to go up to the second floor — from there you have the best view of the entire temple space.

See original · Русский

Наталья

Level 17 Local Expert

The main historical mosque of Istanbul. It is currently undergoing restoration. It's really huge. There are several mosaics inside, the remains of a Christian cathedral. You can listen to information about the iconic places using the QR code in Russian, and see a virtually restored mosaic.

See original · Русский

Александра Драчева

Level 30 Local Expert

The main historical mosque of the city. Nearby, there are also plenty of the best places of ancient Constantinople. A must-visit place in Istanbul. There is a metro line nearby. Very convenient logistics.

See original · Русский

Ольга Никитина

Level 7 Local Expert

The centuries-old history is impressive, it's worth going, we were only allowed on the balcony, of course, we didn't want to wander around the whole temple, but eternal repairs prevented it.It's not clear whether to charge 50 euros per person for admission, and there are queues for an hour and a half, the flow of tourists is endless, and it was possible to repair it quickly.There is a Wi-Fi and audio guide at the entrance, you can use it without a guide, the neural network restores all the frescoes, great.In terms of clothes, the girls are more modest and need a headscarf,they walk straight and God forbid they fall off their heads, they run from the other end, the control is shorter,the boys are strictly trousers

See original · Русский

Михаил

Level 30 Local Expert

Sorry, it's not about food and accommodation.… I can't leave my feedback and impressions from more than one visit to this Cathedral. This is a truly great cathedral! With a great story! It is now a mosque. A couple of years ago, admission was free for everyone, now it's paid for tourists and the price tag is like in the Sultan's Palace (this is not a joke). At the same time, the entrance for Muslims remained free. Like that. I've been there several times and it takes my breath away every time! You can endlessly look and consider for the same length of time inside and outside. There are several frescoes with the faces of saints inside, but they are often hung to avoid attracting attention. In general, they are trying to carefully erase Christian history and put it into oblivion... it's a pity, of course. A grandiose room inside with a colossal dome, today it is difficult to imagine how such a magnificent and massive structure could be built almost 1,500 years ago, which survived more than one earthquake, and was built in just 5 years! Unbelievable! Today, residential buildings are rented in 2 years with cracks according to standard designs, with special equipment and a bunch of specialists)) And the great cathedrals in Europe were built several hundred years later and at least 500 years later! I advise you, even with the current price tag, to visit inside at least once and recharge Our Spirit, it is still felt there) I recommend that you do not miss and visit this masterpiece of art and religion, as well as our once history. A truly great cathedral! With a great story! It is now a mosque. A couple of years ago, admission was free for everyone, now it's paid for tourists and the price tag is like in the Sultan's Palace (this is not a joke). At the same time, the entrance for Muslims remained free. Like that. I've been there several times and it takes my breath away every time! You can endlessly look and consider for the same length of time inside and outside. There are several frescoes with the faces of saints inside, but they are often hung to avoid attracting attention. A grandiose room inside with a colossal dome, today it is difficult to imagine how such a magnificent and massive structure could be built almost 1,500 years ago, which survived more than one earthquake, and was built in just 5 years! Unbelievable! If you don't mind the money, then you should definitely visit this masterpiece of art and religion.

See original · Русский

Hagia Sophia Mosque

2241 review