Topkapi Palace or Hagia Sophia: What’s the Best Starting Point?
When planning a trip to Istanbul, one question that almost every visitor asks is if they should start their tour with Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace. Both landmarks are located in the heart of Sultanahmet, just a few minutes’ walk from each other, and each captures a different chapter of the city’s thousand-year history. But depending on your travel style, one might be better to start with.
1. Historical Overview
Hagia Sophia: The Legacy of Empires
Originally built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Empire, Hagia Sophia has served as a cathedral, a mosque, a museum, and again a functioning mosque today. Its massive dome, mosaics, and marble pillars reflect the transition between Christianity and Islam, making it one of the most significant structures in world history to witness the religious, cultural and architectural legacy of Byzantine, Ottoman and modern Turkish history.
Topkapi Palace: The Symbol of Ottoman Power
Built in the 15th century by the Ottoman Empire, Topkapi Palace served as the residence and administrative center of the Ottoman sultans for nearly four centuries. Inside, you’ll find courtyards, sacred relics, imperial treasures, and the famous Harem section, offering an intimate look into the imperial court life with touches of Islamic, Byzantine and Persian influences.
2. Visitor Experience: Atmosphere and Flow
Hagia Sophia presents a sensational experience best enjoyed in the morning, while it’s still quiet. The interior is dimly lit, with prayers echoing softly through the domed ceiling — a solemn, sacred atmosphere.
On the other hand Topkapi Palace feels more like an open-air museum. Visitors walk through sunlit courtyards, admire Ottoman calligraphy and gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of the Bosphorus. Afternoon visits gives the palace a more angelic atmosphere with the golden hour.
3. Which One Should You Visit First?
If you want to experience the historical impact of these two landmarks, starting your tour with Hagia Sophia makes sense as it provides an insight for understanding the Ottoman legacy showcased later at Topkapi Palace. Its small interior also makes it possible to explore the mosque in an hour if you are short in time.
However, if you’re more interested in imperial life and prefer outdoor spaces begin your tour with Topkapi Palace before moving to the more sacred setting of Hagia Sophia.
4. How to Visit Both Efficiently
The two landmarks are just 5 minutes apart on foot. To save time and skip the ticket queues, it’s best to book a combined guided tour covering both Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace.
Recommended Experience: Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace Combo Tour
5. Suggested Itinerary
- 09:00 AM – Start at Hagia Sophia before the crowds.
- 10:30 AM – Walk through Sultanahmet Square and have coffee at a nearby café.
- 11:00 AM – Enter Topkapi Palace and explore the courtyards, Harem, and Treasury.
- 01:30 PM – Enjoy lunch at one of the restaurants near Topkapi Palace.
6. Final Verdict
Whether you begin with the spiritual magnificence of Hagia Sophia or the imperial grandeur of Topkapi Palace, both are essential to understanding Istanbul’s rich history. The perfect day combines both — one revealing the faith, the other the power, that defined centuries of civilization.
