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Istanbul Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern with Tickets

173 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 173 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Istanbul, Turkey
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 1 more
German
Instant confirmation

Overview

Explore the rich history of Istanbul with a 3-hour guided tour visiting the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern. Benefit from pre-reserved admission tickets that allow for seamless entry, avoiding long waits.

This small-group experience, limited to a personal setting, makes for a more engaging exploration of Ottoman and Byzantine heritage.

- Visit iconic landmarks: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern.
- Enjoy expert guidance in a small-group setting for a more personalized experience.
- Pre-reserved tickets ensure effortless entry to each site.
- Discover fascinating histories and architectural wonders of Istanbul's past.

What's Included

  • Small-group tour for a more personal experience
  • Pre-reserved tickets for Basilica Cistern
  • Pre-reserved tickets for the Hagia Sophia
  • Transportation to the meeting spot
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Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Blue Mosque

Discover the Blue Mosque, one of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks. Admire its elegant domes, hand-painted İznik blue tiles, and peaceful courtyard. Your expert guide shares the story of Sultan Ahmet I and the mosque’s place in Ottoman history while you explore its impressive interior.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and uncover centuries of religious and architectural history. Take in the massive dome and the blend of Byzantine mosaics with Ottoman details. See famous artworks like the Deesis Mosaic, the Imperial Gate, and the Virgin Mary with Child as your guide brings their stories to life.
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1 hour Admission Ticket Included

Basilica Cistern

Descend into the Basilica Cistern, one of Istanbul’s most atmospheric underground sites. Built in the 6th century by Emperor Justinian, it features a forest of marble columns and the mysterious Medusa heads. Enjoy the cool, quiet surroundings as your guide explains the cistern’s role in the city’s past.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

Hippodrome

Walk through the ancient Hippodrome, once the center of Byzantine civic life. Learn the history behind key monuments like the Serpent Column, the Obelisk of Theodosius, and the German Fountain—gifted by Kaiser Wilhelm II as a symbol of Ottoman–German friendship.
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30 minutes Admission Ticket Included

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please note that both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
  • You are not allowed to bring signs, symbols, banners, flags, documents, drawings, or any materials representing political, ideological, or religious beliefs inside the Hagia Sophia.
  • Please note that skip-the-line access is available for adults only. Children under the age of 7 do not benefit from this access.

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Istanbul Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern with Tickets?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-51192P216

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.94
173 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 173 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
166
4 stars
6
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 23 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Small-group tour for a more personal experience
  • Pre-reserved tickets for Basilica Cistern
  • Pre-reserved tickets for the Hagia Sophia
  • Guided visits to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern
  • Headsets to hear the guide better
  • Professional licensed tour guide
  • Transportation to the meeting spot

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are functioning mosques and they can be closed to visitors for any reason, even without pre-notice (for a high-level state visit, for example)
  • Nobody can skip the line at either of the mosques although our guides make it easier and more efficient because they do it every day.
  • Clients must arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour. This is due to the timed entry of the tickets.
  • Please be advised that it is not possible to join the tour after it has commenced.
  • Please note that women are required to wear a headscarf when entering the mosque.
  • Please note that both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing attire are not permitted inside.
  • You are not allowed to bring signs, symbols, banners, flags, documents, drawings, or any materials representing political, ideological, or religious beliefs inside the Hagia Sophia.
  • Please note that skip-the-line access is available for adults only. Children under the age of 7 do not benefit from this access.
  • Please note that children under 7 are not permitted on this tour.
  • If Basilica Cistern is closed, we visit Şerefiye (cistern of Theodosius) or Binbirdirek (Cistern of Philoxenos).
  • Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
  • Please note that Hagia Sophia is currently undergoing restoration, which may temporarily affect visibility in some areas. These works are carried out independently of the tour.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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