Istanbul: Tour of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque By Night

Istanbul’s iconic Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque come alive at night, offering a truly enchanting experience for visitors. This guided tour provides skip-the-line access, allowing you to explore these UNESCO World Heritage sites without the daytime crowds. With rich historical insights from knowledgeable guides, you’ll marvel at the intricate mosaics and architectural wonders while soaking in the unique ambiance. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a captivating adventure, this tour promises to leave you mesmerized by the city’s timeless beauty.

Key Points

• This guided tour offers skip-the-line access to Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, providing an immersive experience away from daytime crowds.
• The tour includes in-depth explorations of these iconic landmarks, with a focus on their rich history and architectural wonders.
• Multilingual licensed guides are available to provide historical insights and context throughout the experience.
• Evening tours allow visitors to marvel at the grand dome and intricate mosaics of Hagia Sophia in a more tranquil atmosphere.
• Visitors can admire the Blue Mosque’s impressive architecture, including its central dome and İznik tiles, in a calmer setting.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour provides visitors with the opportunity to explore two of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, during the serene evening hours.

Priced at 3,447 KRD per person, the 3-hour experience offers a guided tour of both sites, with skip-the-line access and the chance to discover their rich history with a professional guide.

The tour features a return to the Hagia Sophia as the main stop, allowing participants to fully enjoy the architectural wonders of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and pay later, this tour provides a convenient and flexible way to explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Itinerary and Experience

Istanbul: Tour of Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque By Night

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins at the Hagia Sophia, where participants enjoy a guided tour and sightseeing for approximately one hour.

Afterward, the group proceeds to the Blue Mosque for another guided tour and sightseeing session, also lasting around one hour.

The main stop of the experience is a return to the Hagia Sophia, allowing visitors to further enjoy the architectural grandeur and historical significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Throughout the tour, participants skip the lines at both landmarks and discover the history with a professional guide, all while avoiding the tourist crowds of the day.

Guided Tour Details

The tour is led by licensed guides available in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, Italian, French, Spanish, and German. Private group options are also available for those seeking a more personalized experience. Both transportation and entrance fees are included in the tour package. Visitors should arrive 15 minutes early to the meeting point at the entrance gate to the Hagia Sophia Museum.

Tour Details	Information
Guide Languages	English, Japanese, Italian, French, Spanish, German
Group Options	Private
Included	Transportation, Entrance Fees
Meeting Point	Hagia Sophia Museum Entrance Gate
Arrival Time	15 Minutes Early

Attraction Information

Hagia Sophia is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds significant historical importance to both the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, known for its iconic dome and intricate mosaics.

The Blue Mosque, on the other hand, features six minarets and offers visitors a notable view of the Istanbul skyline.

However, it’s important to note that visits to these attractions may not be permitted during prayer times and special events.

As part of the guided tour, visitors will have the opportunity to skip the lines and explore these landmarks in the evening, away from the typical tourist crowds.

This unique experience allows guests to discover the rich history and architectural wonders of these iconic Istanbul sites.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

According to customer reviews, the overall rating for this guided tour of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque by night stands at 4.7 out of 5, based on 22 reviews.

Guides received praise for their knowledge and punctuality, with visitors mentioning the additional historical insights they provided. However, some reviewers noted that the ongoing restoration work at the Blue Mosque affected their visit experience.

The tour received strong recommendations, with customers advising others to:

1. Check the attraction status before visiting

2. Be prepared for the mosque’s prayer times and special events

3. Expect a memorable experience exploring these iconic Istanbul landmarks

4. Take advantage of the skip-the-line access and smaller crowds at night.

Exploring Hagia Sophia at Night

Visiting Hagia Sophia after dark offers a unique perspective, as the iconic Byzantine structure takes on an ethereal quality under the night sky.

Guests can admire the grand dome and intricate mosaics without the typical daytime crowds, allowing for a more intimate and immersive experience.

The guided tour provides historical context and insights that bring the monument’s rich past to life.

Stepping inside the dimly lit interior, visitors are transported back in time, envisioning the grandeur of the former church and mosque.

The evening atmosphere lends an air of mystery and wonder, making this a truly memorable way to discover one of Istanbul’s most significant architectural treasures.

Marveling at the Blue Mosque

After exploring the grandeur of Hagia Sophia, the tour moves on to marvel at the iconic Blue Mosque. Dominating the Istanbul skyline with its six slender minarets, the Blue Mosque captivates visitors with its stunning architectural design and rich history. As the group enters the mosque, they’re struck by the sheer size of the interior, with its massive central dome and intricate blue-and-white İznik tiles covering the walls.

Visitors are asked to remove their shoes and don the provided robes before stepping onto the lush red carpets that cover the floors.

The tour guide points out the mosque’s unique architectural elements, including the delicate calligraphic inscriptions and the stunning mihrab, the niche indicating the direction of Mecca.

The guide shares insights into the mosque’s construction during the Ottoman era and its role as a place of worship for centuries.

As the group takes in the tranquil atmosphere and natural light filtering through the stained-glass windows, they’re left in awe of the Blue Mosque’s timeless beauty.

Preparing for Your Tour

To make the most of your tour, travelers should arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. This ensures a prompt departure and allows the guide to provide essential information before the tour begins.

The tour includes entrance fees and a licensed guide who can provide commentary in multiple languages, including English, Japanese, Italian, French, Spanish, and German.

Visitors should note that the Blue Mosque may be closed for special events or prayer times, so it’s best to check the status before the tour.

With skip-the-line access and an evening visit to avoid crowds, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore two of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos Inside the Landmarks?

Yes, visitors can generally take photos inside the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. However, there may be specific restrictions or policies that must be followed, such as avoiding flash photography or obtaining permission. It’s best to check with local guides or authorities.

Are There Any Dress Code Requirements for the Tour?

There are dress code requirements for visiting the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Visitors should wear modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Head coverings are required for entering the Blue Mosque.

What Happens if the Tour Is Canceled Due to Weather?

If the tour is canceled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour operator will notify them of the cancellation in advance and assist in rescheduling or finding alternative options if desired.

Can I Extend My Visit at the Landmarks After the Tour?

The tour doesn’t allow for extending visits at the landmarks after the tour. The 3-hour itinerary is fixed, and the tour guide will move the group along to cover both sites as scheduled.

Are Food and Drinks Included in the Tour Price?

No, food and drinks are not included in the tour price. The tour covers guided visits to the landmarks, skip-the-line access, and transportation to the sites. Travelers will need to pay separately for any food or drinks during the tour.

The Sum Up

This captivating night tour offers a unique opportunity to explore two iconic Istanbul landmarks, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, without the crowds.

With skip-the-line access and expert guides, you’ll marvel at the impressive architecture and intricate details of these UNESCO World Heritage sites under the tranquil night sky.

An unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to enjoy Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: