Hagia Sophia Entrance Fee
Everything you need to know about Hagia Sophia ticket prices, free entry conditions, and accepted payment methods for 2026.
Ticket Prices
Current entrance fees for Hagia Sophia in 2026. The ticket grants access to the upper gallery where Byzantine mosaics are displayed. The ground floor is reserved for worshippers.
Foreign Visitors
25 EUR
Upper gallery access
Turkish Citizens (Upper Gallery)
500 TL
250 TL with MüzeKart
Children Under 8
Free
With adult, passport required
Prayer Access (Ground Floor)
Free
For all worshippers
Museum Pass Istanbul
Not Valid
Not accepted at Hagia Sophia
Free Entry Conditions
The following visitors are eligible for free access to the ground floor prayer area of Hagia Sophia.
- All worshippers entering for prayer (ground floor, via park-side gate)
- Children under 8 accompanied by an adult with valid passport or ID
- Turkish citizens entering for prayer
- Licensed tour guides with valid credentials
Payment Methods
Hagia Sophia accepts multiple payment options at the ticket counter.
Credit / Debit Card
Visa, Mastercard, and other major cards accepted at the ticket office.
Cash
Both EUR and TRY are accepted at the counter. EUR is recommended.
Online Booking
Book online through authorized platforms like GetYourGuide to skip the line. Note: Museum Pass Istanbul is NOT valid.
Skip the Line — Book a Guided Tour
Save time and enhance your visit with a guided tour that includes priority entrance.
Helpful Tips
Buy Online to Save Time
Purchase your ticket online before visiting to skip the long queues at the entrance.
Use Tourist Entrance Gate
Foreign visitors must use the dedicated tourist entrance on the eastern side, near Topkapi Palace. This leads to the upper gallery.
EUR Preferred Over TRY
Paying in EUR is more convenient and often avoids unfavorable exchange rates at the counter.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Hagia Sophia entrance fee in 2026?
The entrance fee is 25 EUR for foreign visitors (upper gallery access). Turkish citizens pay 500 TL, or 250 TL with MüzeKart. The ground floor prayer area is free for all worshippers.
What does the ticket include?
The 25 EUR ticket gives you access to the upper gallery where you can see the famous Byzantine mosaics, including the Deesis Mosaic. The ground floor is reserved exclusively for worship.
Can I pay in Turkish Lira?
Yes, payment is accepted in both EUR and TRY at the ticket counter. EUR is recommended.
Is Hagia Sophia included in Istanbul Museum Pass?
No. Istanbul Museum Pass is NOT valid at Hagia Sophia. You need to purchase a separate ticket.
Where is the tourist entrance?
Foreign visitors must use the dedicated tourist entrance on the eastern side of the building, near Topkapi Palace. This is separate from the prayer entrance on the park side.