Hagia Sophia

Things to do near Hagia Sophia

When visiting Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, immerse yourself in its stunning architecture by taking a sightseeing tour. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the mosque itself and enjoy nearby attractions, including vibrant shopping destinations and traditional Turkish baths. The area offers a rich cultural experience, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and exploration.

Shopping

Discover the vibrant shopping scene near Hagia Sophia with the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market just 966m away, and the Egyptian Bazaar, located 1.1km away, both offering a rich array of local goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre, 6.4km away, for a family-friendly experience.

Recreation

Garaj Istanbul offers vibrant music concerts just 3.2km from Hagia Sophia, perfect for those seeking an energetic atmosphere. For relaxation, visit Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam, located 1.6km away, where you can indulge in soothing body treatments. Kumbaraci50, also 1.6km away, presents cultural dance experiences filled with romance and entertainment.

Adventure

Embark on the Sultans Trail, a scenic hiking route located 50m from Hagia Sophia, offering breathtaking views and outdoor excitement. For a thrilling experience, try bungee jumping at Istanbul Jumping, situated 3.2km away. Alternatively, enjoy the Eyüp Cable Car, 6.4km from Hagia Sophia, perfect for family adventures.

Nightlife

In Istanbul, immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife near Hagia Sophia. Experience the enchanting performances at Dance of Colours, only 805m away, or enjoy the captivating shows at Tiyatro-Z, just 1.6km away. For a unique flair, visit Mahseri Cumbus Hayalhane, located 3.2km away.

Find the best attractions near Hagia Sophia

Visiting Hagia Sophia in Istanbul offers a delightful blend of cultural and historical experiences. Within its vicinity, you can explore stunning mosques, vibrant piazzas, and historic buildings. Ideal for travellers seeking cultural enrichment and outdoor adventures, nearby attractions include the Hagia Sophia Museum and local hotels. Don't miss the enchanting Hagia Sophia mansions for a glimpse into the city's rich heritage in Türkiye's vibrant capital.

• Blue Mosque: This stunning mosque, known for its majestic blue tiles, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture. Its serene atmosphere and intricate designs offer a unique cultural experience, making it a must-visit site just 483m from Hagia Sophia.
• Sultanahmet Square: The heart of the historic district, Sultanahmet Square is a vibrant piazza where culture and city life converge. Surrounded by iconic landmarks, it provides an ideal setting to soak in the rich history and local atmosphere, located 483m from Hagia Sophia.
• Galata Tower: Standing tall at 1.6km from Hagia Sophia, this historic tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of Istanbul. Its medieval architecture and surrounding area are steeped in culture, making it a fascinating spot for exploration.

Best time to go to Hagia Sophia

The best time to visit Hagia Sophia is dependent 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 during your visit to Hagia Sophia, consider travelling between January and March, as hotel prices are lower compared to the peak summer months. Saturday is the most affordable day to book accommodation, while Thursday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia to filter your search by budget and eco-certification, ensuring you find sustainable options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for better savings. Keep an eye out for discounts and special offers to maximise your travel budget.

• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation for the Hagia Sophia with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package.