Hagia Sophia vs Blue Mosque

Quick comparison – Hagia Sophia vs Blue Mosque

Feature	Hagia Sophia	Blue Mosque
Location	Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul	Sultanahmet Square, Istanbul
Price	Free entry (mosque); guided tours from ₺450	Free entry; guided tours from ₺350
What is it?	Former Byzantine church turned mosque, now a functioning mosque and historic site	Ottoman-era imperial mosque, still active for daily prayers
Built	AD 537 (Byzantine Empire)	1609–1616 (Ottoman Empire)
Architectural style	Byzantine with Ottoman additions	Ottoman with Byzantine influences
Size	Dome diameter ~31m; 55m height	Dome diameter ~23.5m; 43m height
Timings	Open daily (closed during prayer times)	Open daily (closed during prayer times)
Duration needed	45–60 minutes	30–45 minutes
Queues / Wait time	High, especially mornings	Moderate, shorter queues
Best time to visit	Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds	Early morning or after evening prayers
Accessibility	Wheelchair accessible with ramps and wide aisles	Wheelchair accessible, but uneven courtyard stones
Kid-friendly	Yes, though quieter areas preferred	Yes, open courtyards and fountains
Highlights	Byzantine mosaics, massive dome, mihrab, imperial doors	Six minarets, blue İznik tiles, grand dome, courtyard fountain
Dress code	Modest clothing required; women must cover head	Modest clothing required; women must cover head
Nearby attractions	Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Grand Bazaar	Hippodrome, Hagia Sophia, Arasta Bazaar
Photography	Allowed, except during prayers	Allowed, except during prayers

Verdict – Which should you visit?

Short on time? Choose the Blue Mosque for its accessible location, shorter queues, and timeless Ottoman design.

Want to step into centuries of layered history? Go for Hagia Sophia, where Byzantine mosaics meet Islamic calligraphy under one breathtaking dome.

If you can, visit both—they face each other and can easily be explored in a single morning.

Why settle when you can see both?

Join a guided walking tour that covers both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque with expert commentary and skip-the-line entry. It’s the easiest way to explore Istanbul’s spiritual heart in just 2 hours.

Book your combo tour now

Major differences between Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque explained

Hagia Sophia exterior with minarets and domes, Istanbul, Turkey.

History & architecture

Hagia Sophia: Built in 537 AD under Emperor Justinian, it served as a Byzantine church, then an Ottoman mosque, and later a museum before returning to mosque status in 2020. Its colossal dome and mosaics define Byzantine architecture.

Blue Mosque: Completed in 1616 by Sultan Ahmed I, it symbolizes Ottoman architectural mastery, blending Hagia Sophia’s dome design with distinctive blue İznik tiles and six elegant minarets.

Blue Mosque interior with ornate blue tiles and central chandelier, Istanbul.

Experience highlights

Hagia Sophia: Inside, visitors find golden mosaics of Christ and Mary alongside massive Arabic calligraphy panels. Its layered history creates a solemn, awe-inspiring atmosphere.

Blue Mosque: Renowned for over 20,000 hand-painted blue tiles and its symmetrical interior, it offers serenity, rhythmic call to prayer, and classic Ottoman artistry.

Interior view of Hagia Sophia with visitors exploring the historic architecture in Istanbul.

Atmosphere & audience

Hagia Sophia: Often crowded and reverent, especially during prayer hours. Visitors range from pilgrims to history enthusiasts.

Blue Mosque: Quieter and more contemplative, especially early mornings. Preferred by those seeking an active mosque experience.

Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque in Sultanahmet district, Istanbul, with Bosphorus in background.

Location & surroundings

Both stand opposite each other in Istanbul’s Sultanahmet district.

Hagia Sophia overlooks the Bosphorus from its terrace area, while the Blue Mosque opens into the Hippodrome and Arasta Bazaar, surrounded by gardens and fountains.

Hagia Sophia with minarets and gardens in Istanbul, Turkey.

When to visit

Hagia Sophia: Best early morning or late evening to avoid long queues. Expect partial closures during Friday prayers.

Blue Mosque: Visit between prayer times; interior restorations may affect access to certain sections. Early mornings offer soft light for photography.

Person in a green sweater leaning on a chain fence, showcasing casual dress code attire.

Other practicalities

Both sites require modest attire and removal of shoes.

Hagia Sophia may have restricted gallery access, while the Blue Mosque occasionally limits entry during major prayer sessions. Photography is welcome, but flash and tripods are discouraged.

What you’ll see at Hagia Sophia

Hagia Sophia dome with brick, mortar, and stone construction against blue sky.

The Great Dome

A 31-meter-wide architectural marvel that appears to float above the nave, symbolizing heaven on earth.

Mosaic depicting religious figures inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque, Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia entrance door with mosaic above leading to prayer hall.

Hagia Sophia interior with Arabic calligraphy and ornate dome, Istanbul.

Mihrab in Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, with intricate dome and calligraphy.

What you’ll see at the Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque domes and minarets in Istanbul, Turkey.

Main dome and half domes

A cascade of domes forming a perfect architectural balance visible from afar.

Interior view of the Blue Mosque's ornate dome and intricate tilework in Istanbul, Turkey.

Blue Mosque in Istanbul with fountains and minarets in the foreground.

Interior view of the Blue Mosque with ornate chandeliers and stained glass windows.

Interior view of The Blue Mosque's ornate dome and columns in Istanbul, Turkey.

Visiting Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque exterior with gardens and view of the Bosphorus in Istanbul.

Hagia Sophia: Entry is free, but guided tours (₺450–₺600) provide deeper insight into its layered history and mosaics. Book timed tours to skip lines and access special commentary zones.

Blue Mosque: Entry is free, though donations are encouraged. Tours (₺350–₺500) cover history, rituals, and nearby sites like the Hippodrome.

Combo tours: Walking tours combine both mosques and usually start from Sultanahmet Square, lasting about 2 hours.

Independently: It’s easy to visit both back-to-back—start early at Hagia Sophia, then cross the square to the Blue Mosque before midday prayers.

Hagia Sophia exterior with minarets and gardens in Istanbul.

Morning – Hagia Sophia (9 am – 10:30 am)

Enter early to avoid queues and crowds.
Explore the dome, mosaics, and imperial doors.
Take time for quiet reflection near the mihrab.

Illuminated columns inside Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, reflecting on water.

Midday (10:30 am – 12 pm)

Visit the nearby Basilica Cistern or enjoy Turkish tea at Seven Hills Café overlooking both mosques.

Blue Mosque with minarets against a clear sky in Istanbul, Turkey.

Afternoon – Blue Mosque (12 pm – 1:30 pm)

Arrive after noon prayers.
Admire the blue tiles and courtyard architecture.
Spend time at the Hippodrome or Arasta Bazaar nearby.

Hagia Sophia with minarets in Istanbul, Turkey, at sunset.

Evening (Optional)

Stay for the call to prayer echoing between both mosques—an unforgettable Istanbul experience.

Hagia Sophia

Address: Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul | Find on maps
By tram: T1 line (Sultanahmet stop)
By bus: Lines 28, 46Ç, 47E (Sultanahmet Square)
By car: Use Kennedy Caddesi; limited parking near Topkapi Palace

Directions to Hagia Sophia >

Blue Mosque

Address: Sultan Ahmet Mah., Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, Fatih, Istanbul | Find on maps
By tram: T1 line (Sultanahmet stop, 3 min walk)
By bus: Lines 28, 46Ç, or 47E (Sultanahmet)
By car: Same access as Hagia Sophia; parking advised near Hippodrome.

Directions to Blue Mosque >

Hagia Sophia

Open daily 9 am – 7 pm (last entry 6:30 pm)
Closed to visitors during prayer sessions (5 times daily)
Duration: 45–60 minutes
Best time: early morning or sunset

Detailed Hagia Sophia timings >

Blue Mosque

Open daily from 8:30 am – one hour before dusk
Closed during five daily prayers and on Fridays till 2:30 pm
Duration: 30–45 minutes
Best time: morning light for photos, or evening for tranquility

Detailed Blue Mosque timings >

No-flash photography sign at SEA Life London.

Dress modestly: Both mosques require covered shoulders and knees; women must cover hair. Scarves and wraps are provided at entrances.
Prayer closures: Plan around the five daily prayer sessions, especially on Fridays.
Quiet hours: Maintain silence inside; avoid flash photography or standing in prayer areas.
Photography: Avoid flash and tripods; the best photos are from courtyards and gardens.
Best views: Capture both mosques together from the terrace of Seven Hills Café or Sultanahmet Park.
Timing: Visit Hagia Sophia first (it gets busier) and the Blue Mosque after noon prayers for a peaceful experience.
Shoes: Bring socks—shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls.
Combo tip: Book a guided tour covering both plus the Hippodrome for deeper context and efficient routing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hagia Sophia vs Blue Mosque

Can you visit both Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque in one day?

Yes. They’re located across from each other in Sultanahmet Square, so you can visit both within 2–3 hours, ideally outside prayer times for full access.

Which is more budget-friendly?

Both are free to enter, though guided tours vary slightly in cost. Hagia Sophia’s tours are slightly pricier due to its historical depth.

Which is better for first-time visitors to Istanbul?

Hagia Sophia offers the ultimate historical experience—bridging empires and religions. The Blue Mosque complements it beautifully with spiritual serenity and Ottoman artistry.

Which is better for families with kids?

The Blue Mosque is quieter and more open, making it easier for families. Hagia Sophia’s crowds and long lines may be tiring for younger children.

How far apart are Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque?

Only about 150 meters apart—just a 2-minute walk across Sultanahmet Square.

What if I only have time for one?

Visit Hagia Sophia if you value history and mosaics; the Blue Mosque if you prefer an active mosque experience and shorter visit.

Which has the better interior?

Hagia Sophia’s mosaics and dome are unmatched in historical grandeur, while the Blue Mosque’s tilework and symmetry are breathtaking in artistry.

Are both included in the Istanbul Pass?

Most city passes include guided tours for both, not standalone entry (since both are free). Always check inclusion details before booking.

How long do you need at each site?

About 45–60 minutes for Hagia Sophia and 30–45 minutes for the Blue Mosque, plus walking time between them.