I was speechless from the moment I entered the cistern. It's simply incredible what was achieved back then. The visit was at the top of my bucket list, and I was not disappointed.
Walter
SpainJan 2026
5/5
Really incredible. Second time I visit it and we'll come back again. Mandatory in any trip to Istambul. Congratulations
Lamia
Jan 2026
5/5
Our tour guide, the lovely and vibrant Sule, was very knowledgeable, professional and friendly. She took time to show us around the area, sharing her knowledge and experience with all of us. We would love to book another tour with her as our guide!
Barbusca
Jan 2026
5/5
+1 more
It was a performance of the Sema. 4 Musicians and 4 rotating Dervishes. For those who have never attended a Sema, it is also a good approach because there is a short presentation that anticipates the ceremony.
Denis
FranceDec 2025
4/5
Gives a good overview. Allows a different view by day and by night.
However, the audioguide doesn't follow the itinerary, so it's difficult to associate the explanations with the visuals.
Durame
FranceOct 2025
4/5
On-time departure
90-minute cruise respected
Kindness of staff who let us pass without any problem, even though I had an internet connection problem and couldn't provide the e-tickets.
Possibility of getting off on the Galata side on the way back, which enabled us to visit the fish market and eat there.
The only downside was that I had paid for 3 audio guides, but I didn't get any, which was a shame.
Jessica
FranceDec 2025
5/5
#Absolutely incredible! Super recomended.
First at all ILove Headout, it's so easy to book all the tours/activities with them, it's reliable too. We did not have any issues with the bookings or tickets and the instructions were very clear. And I got a discount because I booked the dinner cruise for the night before so big win!
Now, the Cistern! Wowww beyond impressive what a magnificent place from a cultural and architectural standpoint. This is one of the most impressive places I've seen. Make sure you see this place.
The Agia Sophia was very impressive to see, you can easily see the Christian roots (mosaics etc) and then at the same time witness Musulmáns praying.
Definately do the package and purchase the skip the line. The places are next to each other so you can easily do both the same day and with skip the line it's easy and fast to get in and out, we went in the winter time and eventhough there were not a lot of tourists it really helped not having to stand in line and waste time.
Jessica
FranceJan 2026
5/5
A great experience! This is not just a "show" this is a cultural experience. I suggest to arrive early to read and learn about the religion, culture and Dervish dance and see the incredible object they have in display.
Cannot take pictures hence no pictures in this review.
Rooted in the teachings of 13th-century poet and mystic Jalaluddin Rumi, the Whirling Dervish ceremony is a spiritual journey expressed through a soulful dance. As the dervishes spin in meditative motion, their right hand rises toward the divine while the left extends toward the earth, symbolizing the flow of blessings from heaven to humanity. This centuries-old Sufi ritual offers a glimpse into a worldview shaped by poetry, devotion, and the search for one’s highest self. Prepare for a mesmerizing experience that illuminates the heart of Sufi philosophy.
Quick summary
Origin: Emerged in the 13th century within the Mevlevi Order, founded in honor of the poet and mystic Jalaluddin Rumi.
Purpose: The ritual is called Sema and it helps dervishes reach closer to God.
Why people attend: For a rare glimpse into Turkey’s spiritual heritage, a calming cultural ritual, and an authentic experience beyond typical sightseeing.
Best for: Culture lovers, spiritual seekers, music enthusiasts, and anyone exploring Istanbul's Old Town.
Recommended ticket: Go for the iconic Whirling Dervishes ceremony at the historic Hodjapasha Culture Center, a restored 15th-century bathhouse in Istanbul’s Sirkeci district
Why see a Whirling Dervishes show in Istanbul?
1/5
A rare cultural encounter
The Sema ceremony is not staged entertainment, it’s an authentic religious ritual that offers insight into one of Turkey’s most enduring spiritual traditions.
Connection to Rumi
If you appreciate Rumi’s poetry or teachings, this is the closest you can get to witnessing his philosophy expressed through movement, music, and symbolism.
Historic and UNESCO-recognized tradition
The Mevlevi Sema Ceremony is listed by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, making the experience both culturally and historically significant.
Visually and musically captivating
The live Sufi music, the circular rhythms, the white flowing garments, and the sacred symbolism make it a deeply immersive sensory experience.
Gain insight into the Mevlevi Order
The ceremony offers a rare window into the practices and beliefs of the Mevlevi Sufi order—its discipline, symbolism, and centuries-old pursuit of spiritual refinement.
Which Whirling Dervish show ticket is best for you?
For a soulful Sufi experience
Experience an authentic Whirling Dervish ceremony either at the historic Hodjapasha Cultural Centre or in the Sultanahmet area. These tickets offer a complete Sema ritual, with options to add a traditional Turkish dinner. The ceremony lasts about an hour, extending further with chosen add-ons. It's perfect for travelers who have their bucket list sorted and are seeking a meaningful cultural experience.
Recommended tickets:
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Ceremony & Mevlevi Sema Show Tickets
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Tickets for Whirling Dervishes Show & Mevlevi Sema in Istanbul
If you want to explore the Historical Peninsula
Discover Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula with value-packed combos that pair the Whirling Dervish ceremony with iconic landmarks and experiences. Ideal for travelers wanting culture and sightseeing in one go, these tickets let you witness the Sema ritual while also exploring the nearby Basilica Cistern, cruising the Bosphorus, or visiting Hagia Sophia.
The Istanbul MegaPass is perfect for travelers who want maximum flexibility and zero planning stress. With skip-the-line entry to major attractions and seamless digital access, it helps you cover the city’s highlights at your own pace. Ideal for first-timers who want convenience, savings, and a hassle-free way to experience Istanbul’s top sights.
Recommended ticket:
Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions
About Rumi's Mevlevi Order
Rumi’s poetry is celebrated across the world today. It's quoted in films, shared on social media, and cherished in countless translations. But did you know that its roots lie in a profound spiritual movement that shaped centuries of thought? Behind the lines about love, longing, and the search for truth was a philosophy that viewed the human heart as a bridge between the earthly and the divine. Rumi believed that love—not logic, not power—was the engine of the universe. His verses talked about the inner world where the soul expands, the ego dissolves, and the seeker moves closer to what he called “the Beloved.”
From this worldview emerged the Mevlevi Order, founded by Rumi’s followers to preserve and embody his teachings. Their most iconic expression became the Whirling Dervish ceremony, a moving meditation that physically represents the journey he wrote about. In the Sema ritual, the dervish becomes the poem. They spin like a planet around the sun as their white robes billow gently with each turn. They wear a tall sikke hat, which represents the ego to be let go of. The right hand rises to welcome divine grace, while the left extends downwards to pass that blessing on to the world.
Plan your visit to the Whirling Dervishes Show
Daily: 7pm
Duration: 1 hour
Introduction about the Mevlevi Order: 5 mins
Sufi music concert: 10 mins
Whirling Dervishes show: 45 mins
Note: Spend some time at the exhibition before the show starts. You will find interactive video shows, personal books, clothing, and other souvenirs to make your experience memorable.
Address: Hodja Pasha, Hodja Pasha Mahallesi Ankara Caddesi, Hodja Pasha Hamamı Sk. No:3 D: B, 34110 Fatih, İstanbul, Turkey
By train: Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) or Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze) Nearest stop: Sirkeci station
By tram: T1 Nearest stop: Sirkeci station
By metro: M2 Nearest Stop: Sirkeci station
Accessibility: The Hodjapasha Cultural Center is a 15th-century bath house that hosts the Whirling Dervish shows. The venue is not accessible to visitors on wheelchairs. If you need a wheelchair-friendly location, make sure you book tickets for the Sultanahmet venue.
Photography: There is a strict no-gadget policy inside the venue once the show begins. You have to leave your cellphones and cameras outside. You cannot click pictures during the show.
Flexible cancellations: If you book Whirling Dervishes show tickets online, you can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the show begins, and get a full refund on your purchase.
Reach early: Aim to reach the venue at least 30 minutes before the show begins to settle in comfortably. Latecomers are allowed to enter only during the first 10 minutes of the show. After 15 minutes, they will be regarded as no-shows and the ticket price will not be refunded.
Put away your gadgets: Put your mobile phones on silent and maintain decorum after the show begins. Visitors are not permitted to take pictures or record during the show.
Age restrictions: The Whirling Dervishes show is a form of spinning meditation that shows the various stages a Sufi mystic goes through to attain eternal enlightenment.
Wear appropriate clothing: It is best to cover your knees and shoulders when you attend a religious show.
No clapping at the end: Unlike a typical performance, the Whirling Dervishes ceremony (Sema) is a sacred ritual, not entertainment. Applause is generally discouraged as it disrupts the spiritual atmosphere. Instead, observe silently and respectfully until the end.
Explore beyond the Whirling Dervishes show
Hagia Sophia
The Hagia Sophia, an orthodox church-turned-mosque, is a splendid marvel of Byzantine architecture. It boasts a stunning dome and exquisite mosaics, reflecting its rich history.
The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground reservoir in Istanbul has an eerie beauty. Supported by marble columns, it once supplied water to the Byzantine Great Palace.
The Topkapi Palace, Istanbul's former imperial residence, showcases Ottoman opulence. Its sprawling grounds feature ornate courtyards, impressive architecture, and exhibits displaying artifacts from the Sultans' era.
Dolmabahce Palace, a symbol of Ottoman grandeur on the Bosphorus, served as the modern palace for Ottoman sultans. Its European-influenced design and lavish interiors captivate visitors.
Frequently asked questions about the Whirling Dervishes show
Whirling is a form of moving meditation practiced by the Mevlevi Order to achieve spiritual focus and closeness to God. The continuous turning represents the soul’s journey toward truth, mirroring the rotation of planets around the sun. Through this motion, dervishes aim to quiet the ego, open the heart, and channel divine love. It’s both a ritual of devotion and a symbolic expression of harmony with the universe.
You can watch the Whirling Dervishes show at Sultanahmet or Hodjapasha in Old Istanbul. Both venues are located not far from Topkapi Palace.
The best way to reach the Hodjapasha Cultural Center is to catch the M2 metro or board any of the buses numbered 28, 30D, 46C, 66, 99Y, and EM1 and get off at Sirkeci station.
Sufism originated in the early centuries of Islam, primarily in the Middle East, with strong roots in regions like present-day Iraq, Iran, and Turkey.
The Whirling Dervishes show begins at 7pm in the evening every day throughout the year at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center.
The introduction speech about the Mevlevi order and Sufi order of Enlightenment may last for 5 minutes, followed by the Sufi music introduction for 10 minutes. The performance lasts for around 45 to 50 minutes. Overall, the show is wrapped up within an hour.
The Whirling Dervishes show is a one-in-a-kind experience, as the audience has a role to play in creating the Sema atmosphere. As the audience watches the Sufi mystic pass through the stages to attain spiritual fulfillment, they also experience a shift in their energy, which contributes to making the performance a success.
It is best to reach at least 30 minutes before the Whirling Dervishes show begins. Latecomers beyond 10 minutes won’t be admitted into the venue, as it will disturb the peaceful ceremony. If you fail to reach on time, your tickets will be considered a no-show and you will not receive any refunds.
Phones and cameras are not allowed inside the show hall, so you cannot click pictures of the whirling dervishes during their performance.
The Hodjapasha is a 15th-century old bathhouse in Istanbul. The venue is not accessible to visitors on wheelchairs.
While there are lots of Sufi performances held on the outskirts of the city, the best place to watch the Whirling Dervishes show is the Hodjapasha Cultural Center. It is a bathhouse dating back to the 15th century.
The Whirling Dervishes show is not appropriate for children under 7 years of age. The show depicts the various stages a Sufi mystic goes through before reaching ultimate enlightenment. The ceremony must be completed peacefully, hence children are not allowed to watch the shows.
If you have purchased Whirling Dervishes show tickets online, you can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins, and get a full refund on your purchase.
Plan a full-day tour in Istanbul, where you visit famous landmarks like Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, Dolmabahce Palace, and Hagia Sophia, and catch the Whirling Dervishes show in Hodjapasha Cultural center at 7 in the evening.
Add a traditional Turkish feast to your Sufi evening
After the Whirling Dervish ceremony, indulge in a traditional Turkish feast featuring meze, fresh salads, kebab, drinks and ending on a sweet note the classic künefe.
A spiritual Sema ceremony held beside Hagia Sophia with live Turkish music and local drinks.
Everything you get: Admission to the Whirling Dervish ceremony, live Turkish music, access to a cultural venue, and a selection of local drinks, offering a rich and atmospheric cultural experience in the heart of Istanbul.
Why choose this: A rare chance to experience 800-year-old Sufi rituals in a traditional wooden hall.
Upgrades: Add a Bosphorus cruise to pair the ceremony with Istanbul’s storied shoreline, or complement this centuries-old Sufi ritual with a traditional Turkish dinner rooted in local hospitality.
Inclusions
#
Whirling Dervishes show in Sultahmet Area/Hagia Sophia Area(as per option selected)
Mevlevi Sema ceremony
90-minute Bosphorus cruise (as per option selected)
Audio guide in 10 languages (as per option selected)
Local traditional drink (tea or sherbet) and water (as per option selected)
Exclusions
#
Food & drinks
Hotel pickup and drop-off
This experience is suitable for wheelchair, pram, and stroller users.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
A UNESCO-recognized Sema ceremony blending mystical music, ritual, and spiritual dance.
Everything you get: Entry to the Sema ceremony, a 5-min intro video, 10-min live Sufi music, and a 45-min whirling ritual, plus access to the exhibition featuring dervish clothing, instruments, books, interactive Rumi poems, and video displays.
Why choose this: Experience an authentic Mevlevi ritual in a peaceful, traditional setting with rich cultural insight. A must-attend experience for culture vultures and curious travelers alike, offering a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich spiritual heritage.
Inclusions
#
1-hour Whirling Dervish show
Entry to HodjaPasha Culture Center
Entry to the exhibition with dervish artifacts
Please arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled time of your show to avoid further delays.
Photography is not allowed.
The theater is not wheelchair accessible.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s culture with a Whirling Dervish show and authentic Turkish feast after at a 140-year old restaurant.
Everything you get: A full cultural evening blending a 60-min Sema ritual inside ancient Byzantine walls followed by a traditional Turkish dinner. Dinner features. five kebabs, meze, salads, drinks, and künefe. Plus, transfers near major city districts.
Why choose this: Get a guided intro to Sufism at this Dervish ceremony set against 1650-year-old Byzantine walls. It combines Istanbul’s spiritual heritage with an authentic family-run dining experience in one seamless evening.
Inclusions
#
Whirling Dervish performance
Authentic Turkish meal at historic restaurant
Small group experience limited to 10 guests
What to bring
Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
Carry a copy of your booking confirmation (digital or printed) for smooth entry.
What’s not allowed
Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside the restaurant.
Smoking is not allowed within the dining or performance areas.
Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
Additional information
The full experience lasts for about 3.5 hours.
Please inform the restaurant in advance of any dietary restrictions or allergies.
The host can communicate in English and Turkish.
The experience is suitable for all ages; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress code is smart casual; respectful attire is recommended in line with local customs.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Experience Istanbul’s spiritual and historic wonders in one seamless combo—skip the lines and dive deep.
Everything you get at Whirling Dervish & Sufi Dance: Entry to a centuries-old theological school in Sultanahmet, witness the mesmerizing Mevlevi Sema ceremony with live Sufi music. Enjoy tranquil prayer citations and learn about Rumi’s Mevlevi Order.
Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Enjoy skip-the-line entry to Istanbul’s ancient underground marvel. Explore at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.
Why choose this combo: Unlock Istanbul’s soulful side and its hidden depths in one booking—save time, skip the lines, and enjoy two iconic experiences for less than booking separately.
Inclusions
#
Whirling Dervishes
Whirling Dervishes show next to Hagia Sophia
Mevlevi Sema ceremony
Basilica Cistern
Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
Self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German & Italian
Instant mobile ticket
Whirling Dervish
This experience is suitable for wheelchair, pram, and stroller users.
It is allowed to bring baggage to the venue.
It is allowed to take photographs at the venue without flash or tripods.
Basilica Cistern
Flash photography is not permitted.
Tripods and selfie sticks are not allowed due to space and safety concerns.
Eating, drinking, and smoking are strictly prohibited inside the cistern.
The site is partially accessible; there is a lift near the exit on Alemdar Street near the tram line, but the walking path inside may be uneven in places.
Wheelchair users may need assistance, especially around corners or where the lighting is low.
There are no elevators inside the cistern, and seating is extremely limited.
Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check.
The exit leads out to a different street than the entrance; take note of your location before entering.
The lighting is intentionally dim—give your eyes a moment to adjust for better visibility and photos.
#
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Whirling Dervish
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
It is allowed to bring baggage to the venue.
It is allowed to take photographs at the venue without flash or tripods.
Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Remember to download the audio guide app beforehand as limited internet connectivity is available during the cruise. The app works offline after downloading.
Click here to download the audio guide app to your smartphone.
Inclusions
#
Whirling Dervish
Whirling Dervishes show next to Hagia Sophia
Mevlevi Sema ceremony
Bosphorus Cruise
90-minute Bosphorus cruise
Audio guide in 10 languages
Skip-the-line access at the pier
Meet and greet with a marine officer
Bosphorus cruise plan/map
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
What to bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many included attractions involve uneven paths, stairs, or long distances.
Modest attire is a must for religious landmarks. Bring a scarf or shawl if you're visiting the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque.
What's not allowed
Flash photography, food, and large bags are not allowed inside most museums and historic sites.
Revealing clothing is not permitted in mosques; shoulders and knees must be covered for entry.
Accessibility
Most attractions offer partial wheelchair access, but areas like the Upper Gallery at Hagia Sophia and the Harem at Topkapi Palace require you to climb up a flight of stairs.
Additional information
The pass guarantees 7 essentials, including a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, and audio guides.
Add on landmarks and experiences as per the pass you pick. Get the list of included and optional attractions here.
All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
The pass is valid for 7 consecutive days from your selected start date.
You’re free to visit multiple attractions each day, but each attraction can only be accessed once with your pass.
Skip-the-line access is included, but security checks still apply at all venues.
The multilingual audio guides are available offline, so you don't have to rely on a spotty signal.
The included transport card can be used across trams, ferries, buses, and metros—no need to buy separate tickets, but make sure to validate your card at necessary stops.
The digital guidebook includes curated tips and navigation shortcuts between included attractions, helping you plan smarter and save time.
Access to the main prayer hall on the ground floor of the Hagia Sophia is restricted for tourists. You can only visit the upper floor visiting area.
The Asian side walking tour is one of the best ways to see a non-touristy, authentic side of Istanbul. It's slower-paced and culturally rich.
The upper deck of hop-on-hop-off buses offers the best views across the Bosphorus Bridge.
Choose traditional hammams for a more authentic experience.
Opt for evening Whirling Dervish shows for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and get introduced to the Sufi legacy of Istanbul.
The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.
Inclusions
#
Included with the MegaPass
Blue Mosque guided tour
Bosphorus sightseeing cruise
5-ride Istanbul transportation card
Multilingual audio guides for all attractions
Digital guidebook
City, tram, and metro map
Additional inclusions based on the pass option selected
Landmarks & Palaces: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, & Dolmabahce Palace (choose 2/4/10 depending on your pass tier)
Sightseeing tours: Asian side walking tour, hop-on hop-off bus tour, Bosphorus sunset yacht cruise with snacks (based on your pass tier)
Cultural experiences: Turkish bath or hammam experience, Whirling Dervish ceremony, & Bosphorus dinner cruise (based on your pass tier)
Your selected attraction tickets will be sent via email. If you’ve chosen the Deluxe Pass, you’ll receive tickets for all included experiences.
Show the PDF tickets on your phone, or print a physical copy if you prefer.
You can edit your chosen list of attractions anytime, and cancel your pass free of charge up to one day before your chosen start date.
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tickets
NaN
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes & Sufi Dance Tickets
A spiritual Sema ceremony held beside Hagia Sophia with live Turkish music and local drinks.
Everything you get: Admission to the Whirling Dervish ceremony, live Turkish music, access to a cultural venue, and a selection of local drinks, offering a rich and atmospheric cultural experience in the heart of Istanbul.
Why choose this: A rare chance to experience 800-year-old Sufi rituals in a traditional wooden hall.
Upgrades: Add a Bosphorus cruise to pair the ceremony with Istanbul’s storied shoreline, or complement this centuries-old Sufi ritual with a traditional Turkish dinner rooted in local hospitality.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr. - 3 hr.
Audio guide
Tickets
NaN
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
A UNESCO-recognized Sema ceremony blending mystical music, ritual, and spiritual dance.
Everything you get: Entry to the Sema ceremony, a 5-min intro video, 10-min live Sufi music, and a 45-min whirling ritual, plus access to the exhibition featuring dervish clothing, instruments, books, interactive Rumi poems, and video displays.
Why choose this: Experience an authentic Mevlevi ritual in a peaceful, traditional setting with rich cultural insight. A must-attend experience for culture vultures and curious travelers alike, offering a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich spiritual heritage.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now, pay later
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
1 hr.
Dining
NEW
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes with Traditional Turkish Dinner
Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s culture with a Whirling Dervish show and authentic Turkish feast after at a 140-year old restaurant.
Everything you get: A full cultural evening blending a 60-min Sema ritual inside ancient Byzantine walls followed by a traditional Turkish dinner. Dinner features. five kebabs, meze, salads, drinks, and künefe. Plus, transfers near major city districts.
Why choose this: Get a guided intro to Sufism at this Dervish ceremony set against 1650-year-old Byzantine walls. It combines Istanbul’s spiritual heritage with an authentic family-run dining experience in one seamless evening.
Experience Istanbul’s spiritual and historic wonders in one seamless combo—skip the lines and dive deep.
Everything you get at Whirling Dervish & Sufi Dance: Entry to a centuries-old theological school in Sultanahmet, witness the mesmerizing Mevlevi Sema ceremony with live Sufi music. Enjoy tranquil prayer citations and learn about Rumi’s Mevlevi Order.
Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Enjoy skip-the-line entry to Istanbul’s ancient underground marvel. Explore at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian.
Why choose this combo: Unlock Istanbul’s soulful side and its hidden depths in one booking—save time, skip the lines, and enjoy two iconic experiences for less than booking separately.
This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
It is allowed to bring baggage to the venue.
It is allowed to take photographs at the venue without flash or tripods.
Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise
Remember to download the audio guide app beforehand as limited internet connectivity is available during the cruise. The app works offline after downloading.
Click here to download the audio guide app to your smartphone.
Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions
What to bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many included attractions involve uneven paths, stairs, or long distances.
Modest attire is a must for religious landmarks. Bring a scarf or shawl if you're visiting the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque.
What's not allowed
Flash photography, food, and large bags are not allowed inside most museums and historic sites.
Revealing clothing is not permitted in mosques; shoulders and knees must be covered for entry.
Accessibility
Most attractions offer partial wheelchair access, but areas like the Upper Gallery at Hagia Sophia and the Harem at Topkapi Palace require you to climb up a flight of stairs.
Additional information
The pass guarantees 7 essentials, including a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, and audio guides.
Add on landmarks and experiences as per the pass you pick. Get the list of included and optional attractions here.
All activities are open-entry with no reservations required; only the Bosphorus Dinner Cruise needs to be booked in advance.
The pass is valid for 7 consecutive days from your selected start date.
You’re free to visit multiple attractions each day, but each attraction can only be accessed once with your pass.
Skip-the-line access is included, but security checks still apply at all venues.
The multilingual audio guides are available offline, so you don't have to rely on a spotty signal.
The included transport card can be used across trams, ferries, buses, and metros—no need to buy separate tickets, but make sure to validate your card at necessary stops.
The digital guidebook includes curated tips and navigation shortcuts between included attractions, helping you plan smarter and save time.
Access to the main prayer hall on the ground floor of the Hagia Sophia is restricted for tourists. You can only visit the upper floor visiting area.
The Asian side walking tour is one of the best ways to see a non-touristy, authentic side of Istanbul. It's slower-paced and culturally rich.
The upper deck of hop-on-hop-off buses offers the best views across the Bosphorus Bridge.
Choose traditional hammams for a more authentic experience.
Opt for evening Whirling Dervish shows for a quieter, more atmospheric setting, and get introduced to the Sufi legacy of Istanbul.
The window seats fill up fast on cruises; arrive early to grab the best spots.
