What to bring

Basilica Cistern

• Choose sturdy shoes with a good grip, as some areas may be wet or slippery.

• Stay ahead of the game and download the audio app beforehand to avoid any network glitches at the location.

• Make sure your phone is fully charged for tickets, photos, and audio use.

• The underground remains cool and damp even in the summer. Bring along a light jacket or layer to stay warm.

Hagia Sophia

• Wear supportive shoes and consider bringing a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle for comfort outside.

• Keep earphones handy if you plan to use an audio guide.

• Bring some cash for nearby cafés, souvenirs, or small purchases.

Blue Mosque

• Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

• Women should bring a headscarf for entry into prayer areas.

• 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.

• Visitors are required to dress modestly – so please cover your head, shoulders, and knees. Women are also required to wear scarves.

Blue Mosque

• Shoes must be taken off before entering and cannot be worn inside the mosque.

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

Accessibility

Basilica Cistern

• The site is not wheelchair accessible, as the interior has uneven, damp flooring and low lighting that make movement unsafe.

Hagia Sophia

• The site is not wheelchair accessible; while the ground floor can be reached by ramps, the Upper Gallery remains off-limits due to steep and uneven historic stairways.

Blue Mosque

• The site is not wheelchair accessible, as entry involves cobblestone paths and small steps that make independent access difficult.

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

• Due to ongoing renovations, certain sections of the interiors may be obstructed by scaffolding.

• 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.