Hagia Sophia
€25 (tourist gallery ticket)
≈ $27 USD
1–1.5 hoursGoogle Maps
Since 2024 tourists visit the upper gallery on a paid ticket while the ground floor is reserved for prayer. Buy online to skip a chunky queue.
Istanbul's legendary sights now charge tourist rates pegged to the euro, so the Sultanahmet circuit adds up fast ~ but the mosques, bazaars, and ferry rides that define the city are still free or nearly free.
Bring $120–150
This covers the big paid entries (Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Cistern, Galata) ~ the mosques and bazaars cost nothing.
Topkapi Palace
₺2,750 (≈ €55) combo with Harem & Hagia Irene
≈ $60 USD
3–4 hoursGoogle Maps
The Harem section is the highlight ~ don't buy the cheaper palace-only ticket and regret it inside. Go at 9 am opening; tour groups arrive by 10.
Basilica Cistern
₺800 day · ₺1,300 evening
≈ $25–40 USD
45–60 minGoogle Maps
The moody underground column forest with the upside-down Medusa heads. Evening 'shift' tickets cost more but come with light shows and no crowds.
Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed)
Free
30–60 minGoogle Maps
Closed to visitors during the five daily prayers ~ check times before you go. Modest dress required; scarves are lent at the door.
Galata Tower
≈ €30 / ₺1,200
≈ $32 USD
1 hourGoogle Maps
The 360° balcony view over the Golden Horn is superb but pricey ~ a rooftop café in Karaköy gives you 80% of the view for the cost of a coffee.
Grand Bazaar
Free entry
1–2 hoursGoogle Maps
4,000 shops across 60 covered streets. Haggling is the sport ~ start around half the first price. Closed Sundays.
Prices are approximate (as of 2026), based on our visits and official rates, and can change with seasons and exchange rates. Always double-check official websites before you go.
Photos are free-license images from Wikimedia Commons ~ tap the credit on any photo for its author and license.