Explore the grandeur of Hagia Sophia from the comfort of your own home with this self-guided virtual tour. Enjoy the architectural wonders and captivating history of this iconic landmark, brought to life through 22 engaging audio stories. Discover the intricate mosaics, stunning domes, and the stories of emperors and events that have shaped this cultural treasure over the centuries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a unique virtual experience, this tour promises to transport you to the heart of Hagia Sophia, leaving you eager to uncover more about this remarkable place.
Tour Overview

What does this self-guided virtual tour of Hagia Sophia entail?
It offers a satellite and street view experience of the iconic landmark in Istanbul, Turkey. The tour features 10 points of interest with a total of 22 stories, all narrated in English audio content.
Travelers can explore the historic site at their own pace and uncover original tales about its rich history and architecture. The virtual experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible and can be accessed anytime, anywhere with just an internet connection.
Whether you’re planning a trip to Hagia Sophia or simply wanting to learn more about this remarkable structure, this tour provides a comprehensive and immersive way to experience it.
Accessibility and Equipment

The virtual tour of Hagia Sophia caters to a wide range of visitors, catering to those with mobility challenges.
It’s wheelchair accessible, stroller friendly, and welcomes service animals. The surfaces throughout the tour are designed for easy wheelchair navigation.
Visitors don’t need any special equipment, though earphones or headphones are recommended to fully enjoy the audio stories.
The tour is accessible from any web browser with an internet connection, making it convenient for travelers.
Whether you’re exploring Hagia Sophia from across the world or just down the street, this virtual experience ensures everyone can discover the wonder of this iconic landmark.
You can also read our reviews of more guided tours in Istanbul
Booking and Confirmation
How does one go about booking and confirming the self-guided virtual tour of Hagia Sophia?
The booking process is straightforward – you simply purchase the tour online. Once the transaction is complete, you’ll receive a confirmation via email.
Don’t forget to check your spam folder in case the instructions get misfiled. The tour is non-refundable once activated, so be sure you’re ready to explore before you start.
With 24/7 access from April 30, 2020 to December 22, 2025, you can take the tour whenever it’s convenient for you.
Just fire up your web browser, and you’re good to go on this immersive, self-guided journey through the iconic Hagia Sophia.
Tour Journey

Once you have your tour confirmation, you’re ready to embark on the self-guided virtual journey through the iconic Hagia Sophia.
The tour starts right at the entrance, allowing you to explore this magnificent structure at your own pace. As you navigate through the 10 points of interest, you’ll be treated to 22 engaging audio stories that provide historical context and fascinating insights.
Whether you’re marveling at the towering domes, admiring the intricate mosaics, or learning about the building’s diverse religious past, this virtual experience transports you to the heart of Istanbul’s most iconic landmark.
All you need is an internet connection and your preferred device to begin your immersive exploration.
Points of Interest

As you embark on your virtual journey through Hagia Sophia, you’ll be guided to 10 captivating points of interest, each accompanied by 22 immersive audio stories.
These stories transport you back in time, revealing the rich history, architecture, and cultural significance of this iconic landmark.
Discover:
- The awe-inspiring grandeur of the central dome, a masterpiece of Byzantine engineering.
- The intricately carved marble floors and walls, adorned with intricate mosaics and Byzantine artwork.
- The serene and contemplative atmosphere of the Sultan’s loge, where monarchs once observed religious ceremonies.
Through these carefully curated points of interest, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the enduring legacy of Hagia Sophia.
Audio Content

The audio content accompanying the virtual tour of Hagia Sophia transports visitors back in time through a series of captivating narratives.
Narrated in English, the audio tracks bring to life the rich history and significance of this iconic Byzantine landmark.
Listeners are immersed in the stories of emperors, religious figures, and pivotal moments that have shaped the building’s evolution over the centuries.
The audio content adds a depth of context and emotional resonance to the virtual experience, allowing guests to truly appreciate the grandeur and cultural importance of Hagia Sophia.
Whether exploring the stunning architecture or delving into its storied past, the audio commentary enhances the overall tour, creating a more engaging and immersive journey.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Istanbul
- Istanbul: Bosphorus and Golden Horn Cruise With Audio Guide
- Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Fast-Track Entry W/ Audio Guide
- Istanbul: Dolmabahce Palace Fast-Track Entry W/ Audio Guide
- Istanbul Bosphorus Cruise and Audio Guide App
- Istanbul: Hagia Sophia Skip-The-Line Ticket With Audio Tour
- Istanbul: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus With Audio Guide
Traveler Capacity

The virtual tour’s maximum capacity of 99 travelers per session ensures an intimate and personalized experience for all participants.
This thoughtful limit allows for:
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Seamless navigation and easy maneuvering through the tour’s immersive 360-degree views without feeling overcrowded.
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Personalized attention, as the self-guided format enables each traveler to explore at their own pace and focus on the details that captivate them most.
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An enhanced sense of connection to the rich history and architecture of Hagia Sophia, as the small group size fosters a more immersive and reflective experience.
With this carefully curated capacity, the virtual tour promises an exclusive and captivating journey for every curious explorer.
Since You Asked

Can I Take Photos During the Virtual Tour?
Yes, you can take photos during the virtual tour. The tour allows visitors to freely explore the space and capture their experience as they go, though any commercial use of the photos may be restricted.
Is There a Time Limit for Completing the Tour?
There’s no time limit for completing the Hagia Sophia virtual tour. Visitors can explore the highlights at their own pace and revisit the tour as often as they’d like during the available dates from April 2020 to December 2025.
Can I Pause and Resume the Tour at Any Time?
Yes, you can pause and resume the Hagia Sophia tour at any time. The self-guided experience allows users to take breaks and pick up where they left off, providing maximum flexibility to explore the highlights at their own pace.
Is the Tour Available in Other Languages Besides English?
The tour is currently available only in English. However, the company may consider offering the tour in other languages in the future to cater to a wider audience. Travelers should check the website for any updates on language availability.
Can I Interact With the Tour Guide During the Experience?
No, there is no live guide or any interaction during the self-guided virtual tour of Hagia Sophia. The tour is entirely pre-recorded and self-paced, allowing visitors to explore the site at their own convenience without a guide.
The Sum Up

The Self-Guided Virtual Tour of Hagia Sophia offers an immersive and accessible experience for anyone with an internet connection. Visitors can explore this iconic landmark at their own pace, discovering its architectural marvels and rich history through engaging audio stories. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a cultural adventure, this virtual tour provides an inclusive and enriching way to experience the grandeur of Hagia Sophia.
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