Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
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Ottoman Tombs
The beautifully decorated tombs (
Click here
)
of five Ottoman sultans and their families
are located in Aya Sofya's southern corner and accessed via Kabasakal Caddesi. One of
these occupies the church's original Baptistry.
Top Tips
›
The museum is at its busiest first thing in the morning and in the mid-afternoon, when tour groups descend en
masse. Visit during lunchtime or late in the day to avoid the crowds and long ticket queue.
›
Bypass the ticket queue by prepurchasing a Museum Pass İstanbul (
Click here
)
.
›
Bring binoculars if you want to properly view the mosaic portraits in the apse and under the dome.
›
Visit the nave first (entering through the Imperial Door), followed by the upstairs galleries.
›
Hours vary; see the website for details.
Take a Break
Retreat to the tranquil courtyard at nearby Yeşil Ev (
Click here
) hotel to escape the crowds and enjoy a drink or
light lunch.
The Cihannüma (
Click here
)
restaurant in the And Hotel offers tasty food and spectacular views.
