Explore the historic architecture, Byzantine heritage and Islamic legacy of Hagia Sophia, the most iconic monument of Istanbul's Old City. Enjoy a private tour with fast-track access. Optional: transfers and fast-track tickets to Topkapi Palace and Harem.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests:
2-hour: Hagia Sophia Tour Book a 2-hour tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque & see other highlights of the Old City.
3,5-hour: Hagia Sophia Tour & Transfer Book a 1,5-hour round-trip transfer and a 2-hour tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque & see other highlights of the Old City.
5-hour: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace Tour Book a 5-hour tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum and Harem & see other highlights of the Old City.
6,5-hour: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace Tour & Transfer Book a 1,5-hour round-trip transfer and 5-hour tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Topkapi Palace Museum and Harem & see other highlights of the Old City.
Duration: 2 hours: Book a 2-hour tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque and see other highlights of the Old City
,: such as the Blue Mosque and Sultanahmet Square.
Expert-Guide:: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language - TUIS016
Meet you guide in front of the World Heritage Center Hotel, Alemdar, Divanyolu Caddesi, Dr. Eminpaşa Sk. No:2, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey. Please do not enter the hotel, it is only a meeting point and the staff is not informed about the tour.
Book a tour of the Hagia Sophia Mosque. It is the most visited attraction in Istanbul, so we provide Fast Track Tickets to help you beat the crowds. Our passionate Local Guide will show you around Sultanahmet - the Old City of Istanbul and explain the historical and cultural significance of Hagia Sophia as a symbol of coexistence and harmony, representing both the Christian and Islamic faiths. Inside this former cathedral built in the 6th century, you will discover beautiful mosaics from the Byzantine era of the Eastern Roman Empire, as well as Islamic elements such as calligraphy, intricate tile work, and the prayer niche (mihrab). The live commentary in your preferred language will help you understand the historical and cultural significance of this unique place of worship, making it a thought-provoking journey through time and spirituality.
As a former residence of the sultan, the Topkapi Palace is a treasure trove of Ottoman heritage. Explore the amazing museum exhibitions, opulent pavilions, courtyards and the secret Harem section. Your Expert Guide will explain everything in detail and share fascinating facts about the court life of the Ottoman Empire.
You can choose to be picked up from a list of locations, or alternatively, have the choice to make your own way to the meeting points
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation in Istanbul
Know before you go - Check your email the day before the tour for important information from Rosotravel, your tour operator. - The itinerary depends on the selected option. - Mosque visitors must undergo security checks and follow proper etiquette, including modest attire (headscarves for women are available on-site). Women are allowed only in the visitors’ area. Entry is restricted during prayer (5x a day). - Fast-track tickets let you skip the line at the ticket office but not at the security and entrance. - Admission to Topkapi Palace Museum includes the Imperial Harem. For a personalized experience, we keep our private groups small (1-25 guests per guide). Larger groups can book additional guides with us. - 3 and 5-hour options: The 1,5-hour transfer time (2-way) is estimated, depending on the location of your hotel/accommodation and traffic. We will arrange a standard car (sedan) for 1-4 people, or a van/bus for groups of 5+ people. You can book a 5-people tour for a larger vehicle.