Viator Rating : 5 (1 reviews)
Istanbul
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes Show Ticket
60
Overview
Whirling Dervishes Ceremony near Hagia Sophia offers a chance to see a real Sema ceremony. It's in a quiet, special place near Hagia Sophia.
This isn't just a show. It's a way to see Istanbul's old culture. You'll watch the Whirling Dervishes spin and listen to Sufi music. It’s a calm and special time, different from seeing regular tourist spots. You can learn about the history and meaning of the ceremony before and after the show with someone who will explain everything.
What's included? You get to see the Whirling Dervish Ceremony. You also get a guide in different languages on your phone. You'll hear live Sufi music. What's not included? You need to get to the place yourself. You also need to pay for any food or drinks. 
Highlights
See a Real Ceremony: Experience a true Whirling Dervishes ceremony, not just a show.
Learn About Sufi Culture: Understand the meaning behind the whirling and the music.
Peaceful Setting: Watch in a calm, respectful place near Hagia Sophia.
Easy to Understand: A host explains everything before and after.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved how the show felt real and important.
-
They felt it was a key part of Turkish and Islamic culture.
-
Many people found the agency very good and helpful.
-
Guests highlighted that it was worth the cost.
Some visitors mentioned that the show times were not clear initially.
-
A few people found the location a bit hard to find.
The Journey
Whirling Dervishes Ceremony near Hagia Sophia
Experience the transcendent beauty of a Whirling Dervishes ceremony, held near the majestic Hagia Sophia in Istanbul's historic district. This is not mere entertainment, but a profound spiritual ritual known as the Sema, performed by trained dervishes. Witness their mesmerizing whirls, accompanied by haunting Sufi music, as they symbolically journey towards divine union, a practice rooted in the 13th-century teachings of Rumi. The serene atmosphere encourages quiet contemplation, providing a powerful glimpse into Turkey's mystical traditions and a respite from the bustling city. Feel the echoes of centuries past as you observe this sacred dance, a testament to the enduring power of faith and art. Prepare for an experience that transcends the ordinary, leaving you with a sense of inner peace and cultural enrichment.
Know Before You Go
This ticket includes entry to the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony, live Sufi music, and a digital guide in multiple languages. A host will also provide commentary before and after the ceremony. It does not include transportation to or from the venue, or any food and drinks. Make sure to arrive on time, as late entry may not be permitted.
Hot Tip
Many visitors suggest arriving a bit early to find the location and settle in. Some also recommend reading about the Whirling Dervishes beforehand to fully appreciate the experience.
Review Summary
Customers generally say this Whirling Dervishes ceremony offers an authentic, spiritual experience in an intimate historic venue near Hagia Sophia, praising the mesmerizing ritual, live music, and peaceful atmosphere as highlights beyond touristy shows. Frequently mentioned positives include the UNESCO-listed tradition's depth and convenience; minor negatives note limited accessibility and small group sizes with no frills like extensive transport.[1][5][6]
This page is complied by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Kasimpasa Mevlevihanesi
$22.4
Immerse Yourself: Authentic Sema Ceremony at Historic Kasımpaşa Mevlevihanesi
4.8
(42 reviews)
Experience the Authentic Sema Ceremony at Kasımpaşa Mevlevihanesi, a 17th-century sacred space. Witness a true Sufi ritual, exploring Mevlevi traditions through unique exhibitions of Tekke artifacts. Optional art workshops like Ebru, calligraphy, and miniature painting are available. Includes coffee, tea, parking, and private transport for a tranquil cultural journey.
Istanbul
€50
Istanbul: Gedikpasa Turkish Bath with Privacy Option
4.9
(1228 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Experience the historic Gedikpasa Hamami in Istanbul, a 550-year-old Turkish bath located near the Grand Bazaar. This isn't just a bath; it's a journey into Turkish tradition. Built in 1457, the Gedikpasa Hamami offers a unique cleansing ritual in the heart of Istanbul's old city.
The Gedikpasa Hamami offers separate sections for men and women, ensuring privacy and comfort. Skilled therapists use traditional methods, including a kese scrub, to exfoliate and revitalize the skin. Guests can relax in the warm chamber and enjoy a steam bath before the cleansing begins. This experience combines traditional cleansing with options for various massages to improve your relaxation.
More than just a cleansing ritual, the hamam fosters a sense of community and well-being. It's a holistic experience that leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to Turkish culture. The hamam ritual includes marble stone rest, a scrub, and a foam massage. Guests can also enjoy Turkish coffee, tea, sherbet, water, Turkish delight, nuts, and fruit.
Istanbul
$175
Istanbul Highlights Tour: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Topkapi
4.9
(616 reviews)
Istanbul Highlights! Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Topkapı and More! This amazing tour shows visitors the best of Istanbul in a single day. It's perfect for small groups and includes all the tickets needed to see the sights.
The day begins at the German Fountain, a gift from Kaiser Wilhelm, located next to the ancient Hippodrome of Constantinople, where chariot races once thrilled crowds. Visitors will then explore the Blue Mosque, famous for its six minarets, followed by the breathtaking Hagia Sophia, a church known for its divine beauty. The tour continues to the Nakkas Cistern, showcasing Istanbul's history and Turkish handicrafts, before visiting the Grand Bazaar with its many shops.
The tour also includes the magnificent Topkapı Palace, once the heart of the Ottoman Empire. Visitors can explore its courtyards, Audience Hall, Treasury, gardens, and kiosks, as well as Hagia Irene Church. Lunch is provided at a local restaurant, where guests can enjoy authentic Turkish flavors. This tour provides a detailed view of Istanbul’s top destinations. Expect to see the Hippodrome of Constantinople, the Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum (Ibrahim Pasha Palace), the Column of Constantine, the Nakkaş Cistern Museum, Tamara Restaurant, Hagia Irene, the Forum of Constantine, the Nusretiye Mosque, Soğukçeşme Street, Ceremonial Street, and the Harem Museum. The tour includes entry tickets to Topkapı Palace (including the Harem and Hagia Irene) and Hagia Sophia. It also includes lunch, bottled water, coffee, and tea, along with an English-speaking guide. Gratuities and air-conditioned transportation are not included.
Istanbul
€521.72
Relive History: Immersive Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul
5.0
(155 reviews)
Duration: 1440
minutes
The Daily Ertugrul Tour from Istanbul immerses you in Ottoman history. Explore key sites with expert guides, enjoy provided breakfast and lunch, and stay connected with onboard Wi-Fi. Experience historical settings, capture memories in Alp and Hatun costumes. Enjoy comfortable, round-trip transportation from your hotel.
Istanbul
€16.85
Unveiling Istanbul's Soul: A Fener-Balat Historical Walking Tour
5.0
(305 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
The Half-day Fener-Balat Walking Tour explores Istanbul's multicultural heritage. Traverse lands shaped by empires, conquests, and diverse communities. Witness mosques, churches, and synagogues standing side-by-side, gaining insights into Greek, Armenian, Jewish, and Bulgarian influences. Remember to dress respectfully for church visits.
Istanbul
€189
Uncover Istanbul's Rich History: A Personalized Old City Tour
5.0
(126 reviews)
The Private Old City Guided Tour offers an in-depth exploration of Istanbul's iconic landmarks like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace. Enjoy skip-the-line access and a customizable itinerary, delving into the history and significance of each site with a professional guide. Discover historical insights with personalized exploration.
Nearby Events
Beşiktaş Tüpraş Stadyumu
Jun 24
9:00 PMScorpions Live at Beşiktaş Tüpraş Stadyumu
Scorpions bring their legendary rock anthems to Beşiktaş Tüpraş Stadyumu in İstanbul as part of their 60th Anniversary – Coming Home World Tour. This stadium spectacle promises high-energy performances of timeless hits from the German rock icons, fresh off their new live album 'Coming Home Live' released in December 2025, capturing their electrifying stage presence.
Formed in 1965, Scorpions have sold over 100 million records worldwide with classics like 'Rock You Like a Hurricane' and 'Wind of Change.' Beşiktaş Tüpraş Stadyumu, home to the Beşiktaş football club, offers an epic open-air setting for massive concerts in the heart of İstanbul.[1][3][7]
İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu
July 09
9:00 PMKonstantinos Argiros Live in İstanbul Tickets
Konstantinos Argiros brings his electrifying Greek pop performance to İstanbul Büyükşehir Belediyesi Harbiye Cemil Topuzlu Açıkhava Tiyatrosu. The best-selling artist of his generation, known for platinum albums like Osa Niotho and To Kati Parapano, delivers hits such as Psemata, Ximeromata, and Ti Na To Kano that blend contemporary rhythms with traditional Greek elements.
Konstantinos Argiros rose to fame after Fame Story, captivating audiences with emotive vocals and sold-out tours across Greece, Cyprus, and beyond, earning multiple Greek and Cypriot Music Awards. The iconic open-air theater in Harbiye offers a magical summer night under the stars.
Parkorman
July 14
9:30 PMPozitif Vibrations: Gorillaz Live at Parkorman
Pozitif Vibrations brings Gorillaz to Parkorman, İstanbul, for a genre-defying live concert experience that blends rock, alternative, and electronic music. Known for their innovative virtual band concept and genre-bending sound, Gorillaz continue to captivate audiences worldwide with their latest music and immersive live shows.
At Parkorman, fans will enjoy a dynamic open-air setting with a reputation for hosting major international acts and festivals. The venue’s lush, forested surroundings and state-of-the-art production make it one of İstanbul’s most iconic destinations for unforgettable live music events.
Babylon
Dec 11
9:30 PMBilal Live at Babylon İstanbul Tickets
Bilal - Celebrating 25 Years Of 1st Born Second at Babylon, İstanbul brings Bilal’s genre-blending hip-hop and R&B artistry to one of the city’s most respected live-music rooms. The show is framed as a milestone celebration of 1st Born Second*, the breakthrough album that helped establish Bilal as one of neo-soul and alternative R&B’s most distinctive voices.
Bilal is known for his adventurous songwriting, elastic vocals, and influential catalog that bridges soul, jazz, hip-hop, and experimental music. Babylon adds the right setting for an intimate, high-impact performance, with a reputation in İstanbul for hosting carefully curated concerts in a focused, music-first environment.
Hayal Kahvesi Kocaeli
Oct 17
9:00 PMBook Fatma Turgut Live in Kocaeli
Fatma Turgut performs at Hayal Kahvesi Kocaeli, bringing one of Turkey’s most recognizable rock-pop voices to an intimate live-music setting. Known for her powerful vocals and emotionally charged stage presence, Fatma Turgut remains a major draw for fans seeking a high-energy concert experience in Kocaeli.
Fatma Turgut has built a strong reputation through her solo career and earlier success with Model, earning a loyal audience with songs that blend rock intensity and melodic hooks. Hayal Kahvesi Kocaeli is a well-known live venue for concerts and nightlife in the city, making it a fitting setting for an up-close performance focused on atmosphere and sound.
Kadıköy Eğitim Sahnesi
Jun 18
8:30 PMFazlı Polat Stand-Up Tickets in İstanbul
Fazlı Polat - Şaka Şaka Stand - Up at Kadıköy Eğitim Sahnesi brings one of Türkiye’s sharpest comic voices to an intimate İstanbul stage for a night of fast-paced stand-up and observational humor. Known for a style that blends timing, irony, and everyday absurdity, Fazlı Polat remains a recognizable name for audiences seeking smart, locally resonant comedy in a live setting.
Fazlı Polat continues to appeal to fans of arts and theatre who enjoy stand-up that feels personal, playful, and rooted in current life. Kadıköy Eğitim Sahnesi is a well-known performance space in İstanbul’s Kadıköy district, making it a fitting venue for comedy fans who prefer a close-up atmosphere and easy access to one of the city’s most lively cultural neighborhoods.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Istanbul
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Istanbul From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Historical Tours & Pop in Istanbul. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Istanbul Activities