Plan your Visit to a Whirling Dervish Show: Best Shows in Istanbul & Tips
Plan your Visit to a Whirling Dervish Show: Best Shows in Istanbul & Tips
Plan your Whirling Dervish experience with details on the best shows in Istanbul, show times, the duration, and visitor tips. Discover top-rated ticket choices, ensuring a remarkable experience.
Which are the Best Shows to Experience Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul?
Here are three of the top-rated whirling dervish shows in Istanbul:
Hodjapasha Culture
1. Istanbul Whirling Dervish Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
Experience the mesmerizing and spiritual tradition of the Whirling Dervishes at the historic Hodjapasha Cultural Centre in Istanbul. Witness the graceful and hypnotic spinning of the dervishes as they perform their centuries-old ritual, accompanied by traditional music and mystical chants.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Turkey and embark on a journey of spiritual enlightenment and transcendence. Don’t miss this captivating and unforgettable experience during your visit to Istanbul.
Location
Address: Hodjapasha, Hoca Paşa Mahallesi Ankara Caddesi, Istanbul
Find on Google Maps: Istanbul Whirling Dervish Show at Hodjapasha Cultural Centre
Show Time
Timing: Daily 6:30pm
Duration: 1 Hour (Introduction Video: 5 mins, Sufi Music Concert: 10 mins, Whirling Dervishes Ceremony (SEMA): 45 mins)
Buy Your Ticket Here!
2. Tickets for Whirling Dervishes Show in Sultanahmet Area
Immerse yourself in the enchanting tradition of the Whirling Dervishes with tickets to a captivating performance in the heart of Istanbul’s Sultanahmet area. Witness the mesmerizing dance of the dervishes as they twirl in graceful harmony, expressing spiritual devotion and transcendence.
Accompanied by traditional music and mystical chants, this centuries-old ritual offers a unique glimpse into Turkey’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the spiritual beauty of the Whirling Dervishes during your time in Istanbul.
Location
Address: Kizlaraga Medrese , Hoca Rustem Sok. 6, Istanbul
Find on Google Maps: Tickets for Whirling Dervishes Show in Sultanahmet Area
Show Time
Timing: Wed, Fri – Mon: 6:30pm & 7pm
Duration: 1 Hour
Buy Your Ticket Here!
How to get to Hodjapasha Culture Centre & Hodjapasha Hamam?
Find on Google Maps: HodjaPasha Hamam
Public Transportation
By Tram
– Look for the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line. [Board the tram heading towards Kabataş if you’re coming from the old city (Sultanahmet area) or Bağcılar if you’re coming from the opposite direction.]
– Alight at the Sirkeci tram station. Hodjapasha Culture Centre is a short walk from the Sirkeci tram station.
By Metro
– If you’re coming from the European side, take the M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman metro line.
– If you’re coming from the Asian side, take the Marmaray metro line.
– Alight at the Yenikapı metro station.
– Transfer to the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line.
– Take the tram towards Bağcılar and alight at the Sirkeci tram station. Hodjapasha Culture Centre is a short walk from the Sirkeci tram station.
By Train
– Take a train to Sirkeci Station, which is a major railway hub in Istanbul. Once you arrive at Sirkeci Station, exit the station and head towards the tram stop.
– From the tram stop, take the T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar tram line.
– Ride the tram towards Kabataş if you’re coming from the old city (Sultanahmet area) or Bağcılar if you’re coming from the opposite direction. Alight at the Sirkeci tram station. Hodjapasha Culture Centre is a short walk from the Sirkeci tram station.
Kizlaraga Medrese
3. Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
Experience the mesmerizing spiritual journey of the Mevlevi Sema ceremony and witness the captivating performance of the Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul. Immerse yourself in the centuries-old tradition of Sufism as you observe the graceful whirling dance and mystical music that transcend worldly boundaries.
Location
Address: Start your activity at Hodjapasha Culture Center, which is located about 100 meters from the Sirkeci Tram Stop
Find on Google Map: Istanbul: Mevlevi Sema and the Whirling Dervishes Show
Show Time
Timing: Daily 7 pm
Duration: 1 Hour
Buy Your Ticket Here!
How to get to Kizlaraga Medrese?
Find on Google Map: Kizlaraga Medrese
Public Transportation
By Tram
– Take the tram line T1 Kabataş-Bağcılar.
– If you’re in the old city (Sultanahmet area), take the tram towards Bağcılar. If you’re coming from the opposite direction, take it towards Kabataş. Get off at the Çemberlitaş tram station. From there, Kizlaraga Medrese is a short walk away.
By Metro
– Take the M2 Yenikapı-Hacıosman metro line. Get off at the Şişhane metro station. Kizlaraga Medrese is within walking distance from Şişhane.
Best Shows: 7 Tips for Your Whirling Dervish Experience
1. Arrive Early: To ensure you get a good seat and have time to relax before the show starts, arrive at the venue early.
2. Dress modestly: Out of respect for the spiritual nature of the performance, it’s advisable to dress modestly. Avoid revealing clothing and opt for comfortable attire.
3. Respect the performers: Whirling Dervish shows are deeply spiritual performances, so it’s essential to remain quiet and attentive throughout the show. Refrain from talking or using your phone during the performance.
4. Follow the rules: Be sure to adhere to any rules or guidelines set by the venue, such as restrictions on photography or recording during the show.
5. Learn about the tradition: Before attending the show, take some time to learn about the history and significance of the Whirling Dervishes. Understanding the background of the tradition can enhance your appreciation of the performance.
>> Read more history of Whirling Dervishes Istanbul right here.
6. Reflect on the experience: After the show, take some time to reflect on the experience and what it meant to you personally.
7. Baggage allowance: If you need to travel with your luggage, some shows may have designated areas for luggage storage. You can check the “know before you go” section of your ticket for more information.
Book the Best Show Tickets for a Whirling Dervish Experience
Explore below your Whirling Dervishes Istanbul ticket options and pick from the finest selection:
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes & Sufi Dance Tickets
320+ Reviews
€12.60
Headout
“A magical moment of authenticity and spirituality. The traditional music and the Dervishes are a spectacle not to be missed.”
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
110+ Reviews
€35.25
Headout
“Great distribution of chairs that gives a good view, good explanation before entering , music great !”
Istanbul: Whirling Dervish Ceremony next to Hagia Sophia
870+ Reviews
€12
GetYourGuide
“Short but interesting presentation given to explain what we were about to see, then an authentic ceremony which was much enhanced by the explanation, and actually very beautiful and moving. Something I won’t forget.” Rachel, Dec. 2025, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
4.5K+ Reviews
€27
GetYourGuide
“I rated it 4/5 and I think it deserves to be recommended.(…) If you only consider the performance of the ascetics, musicians and singers, this would be full marks.”
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“The food was amazing. I loved that we were able to explore the Asia side of Istanbul and all the information on the Egyptian/spice market was helpful. Would do this tour again!” Rebecca, Jan. 2026, USA [Source: GetYourGuide]
Istanbul: Whirling Dervishes & Sufi Dance Tickets
Be a part of the spiritual spectacle put forward by the Sufi Dervishes as they immerse themselves in prayer with raised hands to feel the creation and motion of the universe. The Whirling Dervishes Istanbul experience will give you a different perspective.
Fabien, Dec. 2023, France [Source: Headout]: “A magical moment of authenticity and spirituality. The traditional music and the Dervishes are a spectacle not to be missed.”
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
Sneak a peek into the vast Turkish history and culture and celebrate 800 years of Sufi tradition at the invigorating Whirling Dervish Show! Book your Whirling Dervishes Istanbul show tickets now to avoid missing out on the best of Istanbul!
Ricardo, Nov. 2023, Italy [Source: Headout] “Great distribution of chairs that gives a good view, good explanation before entering , music great ! “
Istanbul: Whirling Dervish Ceremony next to Hagia Sophia
Experience the mesmerizing whirling dervish ceremony accompanied by live traditional Turkish music. Step into Istanbul’s spiritual and artistic heritage at an authentic cultural venue in the heart of the historic city.
“Short but interesting presentation given to explain what we were about to see, then an authentic ceremony which was much enhanced by the explanation, and actually very beautiful and moving. Something I won’t forget.” Rachel, Dec. 2025, UK [Source: GetYourGuide]
Istanbul: Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
See the stunning Mevlevi Sema ceremony in Istanbul. Enjoy a complex musical repertoire with Whirling Dervishes and go on a mystical dance journey, representing man’s spiritual ascent through mind, love, and perfection. Enjoy complimentary drinks during the show.
Jiamu, April 2024, UK [Source: GetYourGuide] “I rated it 4/5 and I think it deserves to be recommended.(…) If you only consider the performance of the ascetics, musicians and singers, this would be full marks.”
Istanbul Pass MegaPass
Discover Istanbul’s must-see sights with one pass, covering museums and historic landmarks, curated experiences, scenic cruises, free internet access, guided walking tours, public transportation, and special discounts.
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“The queue jumpers, well organized and friendly guys” Armando, Jan. 2026, Italy [Source: Headout]
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Skip the lines and explore Hagia Sophia’s Ottoman-era heritage, where stunning Christian mosaics meet imperial grandeur, enhanced by a multilingual audio guide.
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