Editor: Rasim Terzi (Sun, Feb 5, 2023 5:48 PM) long queue, long waiting time at Hagia Sophia and a solution Free Quote

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long row ordeal

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long queue, long waiting time at Hagia Sophia and a solution

January 19th 2024

HAGIA SOFIA AND ENTRANCE AND TICKETS

According to a new decision taken in 2024, non-Muslim tourists can visit the second floor of Sofia with a ticket priced at just 25 euros, while they are not allowed to visit the lower floor. Muslim tourists can enter the first floor of the Main Gallery with a 25 euro ticket or enter during prayer hours to pray.

HAGIA SOFIA OPENING HOURS

New rule: You can visit the top floor of Sofia from 9:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., except on Fridays. Entrance gates and ticket offices close at 7 p.m.
Hours on Friday
Open: 09:00-12:30

Closed: 12:30-14:00

Open: 14:00-19:30

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Ensure compliance with the revised guidelines for an optimal and enriched visit to Hagia Sophia."

**Unlocking the Beauty of Hagia Sophia: A Must-Know Update**

*April 4th, 2023*

With the recent transformation of Hagia Sophia back into a mosque, the once-imposed entrance fee has been lifted, inviting visitors to explore its magnificence for free, reminiscent of its pre-museum era. This move has seen a staggering fivefold increase in the number of eager visitors. However, the surge in interest, compounded by pandemic-related restrictions, has led to extensive queues, particularly for those attempting to visit before the noon prayer. The wait time has extended to at least an hour, leaving many enthusiasts disheartened. The enthusiastic calls from officials to hasten the visit for those who've patiently waited further add to the overall disappointment.

**Our Advice for Hagia Sophia Visitors:**
Consider reimagining your daytime schedule and plan your visit to Hagia Sophia after 10 pm. The extended visiting hours until 10 pm provide a serene and less crowded experience, allowing you to appreciate this historical gem without the lengthy queues.

*Do you require a Tour Guide for your Istanbul visit? Click [Istanbul Guide services](#).*

*November 29th, 2023*

In response to the increased demand during prayer times, a strategic decision has been implemented to form a second row at Hagia Sophia's entrance gate, facilitating the swift entry of Muslim visitors. The number of security machines has been doubled, with an increase from two to four. These enhancements aim to significantly reduce the extensive queues at Hagia Sophia's entrances.

*Note: Changes are anticipated in Hagia Sophia on January 15, 2024. Stay tuned for detailed insights into these developments in our upcoming Hagia Sophia article after the mentioned date.*

*For updates post-January 15th, explore the article: [Hagia Sophia After January 15th](#).*

Sun, Feb 5, 2023 5:48 PM

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