Hagia Sophia

Things to do near Hagia Sophia

While visiting Hagia Sophia, immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through art exhibitions and nearby attractions. Explore the charming shops offering unique souvenirs and traditional crafts. Don't miss additional sites such as the Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace, all conveniently located within walking distance, allowing for a delightful day of discovery and exploration in the heart of Istanbul.

Shopping

The Grand Bazaar, only 966m from Hagia Sophia, offers vibrant city vibes and a plethora of souvenirs. The Egyptian Bazaar, 1.1km away, is another delightful spot for local goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre, 6.4km away, for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam offers a rejuvenating body treatment just 1.6km from Hagia Sophia, enveloping you in wellness and relaxation. For vibrant entertainment, the Whirling Dervishes Istanbul concert is a mesmerising experience only 322m away, while Kumbaraci50 provides a captivating dance performance, blending culture and romance 1.6km away.

Adventure

Embark on the Sultans Trail for a scenic hike through history, located 50m from Hagia Sophia. For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping at Istanbul Jumping, 3.2km away. Experience family fun and outdoor thrills on the Eyüp Cable Car, situated 6.4km from this iconic site.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Hagia Sophia with the Dance of Colours theatre, just 805m away, offering a blend of culture and romance. Tiyatro-Z, 1.6km away, and Mahseri Cumbus Hayalhane, 3.2km distant, both promise enchanting performances in a family-friendly atmosphere.

Find the best attractions near Hagia Sophia

When visiting Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, you can explore a variety of attractions including mosques, historic buildings, and the vibrant piazza. These points of interest cater to travellers seeking cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and a taste of the city's rich history. Whether you’re an art lover or a history enthusiast, the area around Hagia Sophia offers an unforgettable journey through time and culture.

• Blue Mosque: Known for its stunning blue tiles, the Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, offers a serene atmosphere with its majestic domes and minarets. Marvel at the intricate mosaics and experience the tranquillity of this functioning mosque, just 483m from Hagia Sophia.
• Sultanahmet Square: A vibrant hub rich in history, Sultanahmet Square is surrounded by iconic landmarks. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, with street performers and cafes, while soaking in the cultural essence of Istanbul, located 483m from Hagia Sophia.
• Galata Tower: Rising 1.6km from Hagia Sophia, this medieval stone tower offers panoramic views of Istanbul. Climb to the top for breathtaking vistas and discover its fascinating history, making it a must-visit cultural landmark.

Best time to go to Hagia Sophia

The best time to visit Hagia Sophia is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Hagia Sophia

To save money on your visit to Hagia Sophia, plan your trip between January and March when accommodation prices are lower, and consider staying on a Saturday for the best rates. Use Expedia to filter and compare hotel options by price and type, including eco-friendly choices. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. For public transport, explore the city using trams and buses, which are affordable options to navigate Istanbul without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Hagia Sophia are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Hagia Sophia is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Hagia Sophia is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels are shown first. Moreover, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservations near the Hagia Sophia with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.