What to bring

Basilica Cistern

• Wear comfortable shoes with grip, especially for walking on smooth or damp surfaces.

• Bring wired headphones if using an audio guide app; Bluetooth may not work well underground.

• Carry a fully charged phone or power bank for photos and digital tickets.

Hagia Sophia

• Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a water bottle, hat, and sunglasses to explore comfortably.

• Don’t forget your earphones for the audio guide.

• Carry cash to pay for meals, souvenirs, and extras.

Blue Mosque

• Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

• Bring a scarf or shawl to cover your head if you're a woman.

• Carry a small bag to hold your shoes when you take them off at the entrance.

What's not allowed

Basilica Cistern

• Flash photography is not allowed, as it disrupts the lighting and other visitors.

• Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited due to space and safety concerns.

• You cannot eat or drink inside the cistern.

Hagia Sophia

• Visitors are not permitted in certain areas during prayer times.

• Flash photography is not allowed.

Blue Mosque

• Shoes must be removed before entering and cannot be worn inside.

• Clothing that exposes shoulders or knees is not permitted; dress modestly.

Accessibility

Basilica Cistern

• The entrance has a ramp, and a wheelchair platform lift is available at the exit on Alemdar Street.

• Inside, the walking path is mostly flat but can be uneven or damp in some areas, which may require assistance.

Hagia Sophia

• The ground floor is accessible via ramps, and staff can assist with entry if needed.

• The Upper Gallery is not currently wheelchair accessible due to its historic staircases.

Blue Mosque

• The courtyard and main prayer hall are wheelchair accessible.

• The mosque has a smooth, open layout that ensures visitors in wheelchairs can navigate comfortably.

Additional information

Basilica Cistern

• Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check.

• Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.

Hagia Sophia

• You can bypass the ticket lines, but the security check is mandatory and can take up to 60 minutes between June and August.

• The ground floor is reserved for prayers, while the second floor is accessible to visitors.

Blue Mosque

• You can skip the ticket line, but security checks apply to all visitors and may take up to 60 minutes during busy hours.

• You can buy a scarf or a body cover at the entrance for €1 and €3.