Explore Istanbul's spiritual side with a cost-effective combo to see a Whirling Dervish show and get skip-the-ticket-line access to the Hagia Sophia.
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Seek spiritual enlightenment with a 1-hour Whirling Dervish ceremony at a historic Madrasah at the heart of old Istanbul.
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Be captivated by the swirling dervishes, their white gowns flowing as they perform the centuries-old Sema ceremony.
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Explore the Hagia Sophia at your own pace with a skip-the-line ticket, marveling at its mosaics and ancient architecture.
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Learn about the Hagia Sophia's history through multiple ancient empires with the multilingual audio guide, uncovering the stories behind its artwork.
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Fun fact: The whirling dervishes' white gowns represent a shroud, symbolizing their letting go of the earthly world.
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Whirling Dervish Show
- Entry to 1-hour Whirling Dervish show
Hagia Sophia
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Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
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Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
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Audio guide in 23 languages
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
How do we collect reviews?
Guests from Spain, Italy, France and over 58 countries have loved this experience
Lorena
Oct, 2024
Booking was easy and secure. The event information was very clear and specific. When we arrived at the venue everything was perfect as well. The event was wonderful, well organized and unique. I would recommend using Headout for similar experiences.View original review in Spanish
Maria
Jul, 2024
The incredible history behind the dome is spectacular. The narration highlighting each section / segment is enlightening. The mosaic on the wall is beyond words to explain. All I could wish is for the government to maintain this piece of history for generations to come.
Edwige
May, 2024
The warm welcome with a glass of tea to tide us over. The musical introduction to get us in the mood and accustom our Western ears to these astonishing sounds. Watching these bearded fellows twirl with surprising grace and lightness. It's a wonderful experience, and one that leaves you feeling serene and smiling.View original review in French
Iman
May, 2024
Great experiences to discover Sufi ritual. Small remark or suggestion: explain to people who don't know what it's all about. That there's an element of spirtuality and that's why it's important to be respectful and silent. Some people were laughing and pampering. Which can be disturbing at times.View original review in French
Eva
Apr, 2024
The entrance to the museum was made easy after we discussed with the service provider. He also helped us to install the audioguide. When entering the Hagia Sofia, I could not syncronise the guide with what we saw. We could only enter the second floor so part of the audio guide was non-applicable. It would have been helpful to have a general instruction somewhere what was coming. It was interesting to see the remains of the Christian faith on the walls, they had been beautifully created. They also explained the agreement with the Church and the State that changed the original concept of a family based gatherings of the first century.
This pocket-friendly combo lets you experience two of Istanbul's most captivating cultural treasures: the whirling dervishes' ceremony and the Hagia Sophia.
Whirling Dervish Show
Imagine the warm glow of candlelight illuminating a centuries-old Madrasah as you witness the Sema ceremony. As the first notes of traditional Sufi music fill the Madrasah, the Dervishes begin their graceful twirls. Their movements are slow and deliberate, each spin a representation of their connection to the universe. Watch as the Dervishes reach a state of near-trance, their white skirts creating a blur against the backdrop of the historic building. This performance is more than just a show; it's a window into the heart of Sufism, a mystical tradition that symbolizes their connection to the universe and a letting go of the earthly world.
Hagia Sophia
Your combo ticket also grants you skip-the-line access to the Hagia Sophia. With your multilingual audio guide, embark on a self-guided exploration, unraveling the stories etched in the mosaics and the intricate calligraphy adorning the walls. Imagine the footsteps of Byzantine emperors echoing through the 6th-century Emperor's Gate. Don't miss the Mihrab, a prayer niche indicating the direction of Mecca – a reminder of Hagia Sophia's past as both a church and a mosque. Keep an eye out for the towering columns, each brought from ancient cities such as Ephesos and Tarsus. Explore this time capsule at your own pace as you soak in its centuries-old history.
What to bring
Hagia Sophia
- For optimal enjoyment, bring your earphones to use with the audio guide.
What's not allowed
Whirling Dervish Show
- Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography and tripods are no-go inside the venue.
Hagia Sophia
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Strict dress code: Guests must dress modestly and cover their knees and shoulders. Women should also partially cover their hair with a scarf.
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Shutterbugs, take note: Flash photography and tripods are no-go inside the venue.
Accessibility
Whirling Dervish Show & Hagia Sophia
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
Additional information
Hagia Sophia
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During high season, the security check waiting time for Hagia Sophia is around 1 hour.
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Hagia Sophia may be closed during prayer times as it is a place of religious worship.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Please display the same at each ticket redemption point along with a valid photo ID.
Ticket redemption points
Whirling Dervish & Sufi Dance Tickets in Sultanahmet Area
- Please check your final voucher for the redemption point details and specific instructions.
Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
- Please check your final voucher for the redemption point details and specific instructions.
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