Blue Mosque, Istanbul

Mosque in Istanbul

If there's one monument that defines Istanbul's skyline, it's the Blue Mosque, officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Built between 1609 and 1616 under Sultan Ahmed I, this remarkable structure was conceived to rival Hagia Sophia and remains one of the best places to visit in Istanbul. Its nickname comes from more than 20,000 hand-painted İznik tiles that create a tranquil blue glow inside, transforming the prayer hall into a sea of calm. This is one of the top attractions in Istanbul not just for its grandeur but for its living spirit - it's still an active mosque, calling the faithful to prayer five times a day.

Located directly opposite Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque dominates Sultanahmet Square and stands as a highlight of any walking tour of Istanbul's Old Town. Its cascading domes and slender minarets rise elegantly against the sky, while the courtyard, nearly as large as the mosque itself, offers a serene space for reflection. Whether you're a lover of architecture, photography, or history, the Blue Mosque captures the essence of the city's soul - timeless, spiritual, and endlessly captivating.

History and Significance of the Blue Mosque
Things to See and Do in the Blue Mosque
How to Get There
Practical Tips on Visiting the Blue Mosque
Is the Blue Mosque worth visiting?
FAQs for Visiting the Blue Mosque
Nearby Attractions to the Blue Mosque

History and Significance of the Blue Mosque

Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I when he was just 19 years old, the Blue Mosque was designed by architect Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a pupil of the great Sinan. Ahmed's intention was to create a monument that would symbolize both Ottoman power and Islamic devotion. The mosque's six minarets stirred controversy at the time, matching the number at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. To resolve the issue, a seventh minaret was later added to Mecca's mosque.

The complex once included a madrassah (religious school), hospice, and the tomb of Sultan Ahmed himself. The Blue Mosque's design blends Byzantine influences from Hagia Sophia with classical Ottoman style, representing the artistic maturity of the 17th century. Over the centuries, it has survived earthquakes and restorations, standing as one of the must-see places in Istanbul for anyone drawn to its spiritual and artistic legacy.

Things to See and Do in the Blue Mosque

Step through the main courtyard and you’ll be met by perfect symmetry and calm. Inside, sunlight filters through more than 200 stained-glass windows, illuminating intricate tilework that depicts tulips, lilies, and arabesque motifs. The mihrab (prayer niche) carved from fine marble, the gilded minbar (pulpit), and the monumental central dome together create an atmosphere both intimate and awe-inspiring. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times, though respectful attire is required - headscarves for women and modest clothing for all.

Outside, take time to walk around the courtyard for panoramic shots of the mosque's elegant silhouette. The gardens surrounding the mosque lead directly into Sultanahmet Square, from which you can explore nearby treasures like Hagia Sophia, the Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts, and the Basilica Cistern. The Blue Mosque is not just a religious site but one of the things to do in Istanbul that connects travelers with the rhythm of the city's daily life - where prayer, conversation, and admiration intertwine.

How to Get There

The Blue Mosque sits at the center of Istanbul's historic Sultanahmet district and is very easy to access. The T1 tram line stops directly at Sultanahmet, just a few minutes' walk from the mosque's main gate. For visitors arriving by train, Sirkeci railway station is around a 15-minute walk away. You can use the official TCDD Taşımacılık website to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for Turkey’s national and regional trains operated by TCDD. For a more streamlined experience (especially if you prefer an English interface or want to compare across countries), we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book train tickets across Turkey and the rest of Europe — all in one place. Drivers will find limited parking in the Old City, but there are paid parking areas nearby, including one close to the Hagia Sophia. If you are looking to rent a car in Turkey I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Blue Mosque

Best time to visit the Blue Mosque: Early morning before crowds arrive, or later in the evening for atmospheric lighting.
Entrance fee in Euros: Free (donations appreciated).
Opening hours: Open daily except during prayer times (five times per day, approximately 30 minutes each).
Official website: https://bluemosque.com
How long to spend: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, though some areas have minor steps.
Facilities: Shoe racks and plastic bags for footwear; restrooms nearby.
Photography tip: Capture the mosque’s exterior from the gardens at sunset for golden light on the domes.
Guided tours: Offered by local guides and through official tour operators.
Nearby food options: Numerous cafés and restaurants line Sultanahmet Square, serving Turkish tea, kebabs, and desserts.

Is the Blue Mosque worth visiting?

Without question. The Blue Mosque is one of Istanbul's defining experiences - an architectural masterpiece that remains alive with faith and community. It's not just about beauty; it's about atmosphere. Whether you visit to pray, photograph, or simply absorb its serenity, you'll leave feeling connected to something greater than history.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (113,914)

The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) in Cankurtaran, Fatih, Istanbul is a famous, free-to-enter historic mosque noted for its striking blue interior tiles, sweeping domes and six minarets; visitors praise its beautiful, light-filled prayer hall, detailed Ottoman architecture and welcoming, well-organized entry with helpful staff (including provision of headscarves), while some warn it can be very crowded and busy so arriving early or visiting quieter nearby gardens and viewpoints can make for a more peaceful experience.

Walter Basile

a week ago

"A masterpiece of Ottoman grace, famous for the 20,000+ hand-painted blue Iznik tiles that give it its name. Built by Sultan Ahmed I to rival theHagia Sophia, its six minarets and cascading domes dominate the skyline. The interior’s light-filled prayer hall and intricate calligraphy create an atmosphere of immense peace. It remains a living testament to classical architectural beauty. An timeless landmark of Istanbul! Definitely recommended 👌🏼...."

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pratama suherman

a month ago

"Absolutely loved my visit to the Blue Mosque. The iconic blue tones inside are truly breathtaking, even more beautiful in person. The entire area isvery clean and well-maintained, making the experience feel calm and comfortable. What impressed me the most is how rich it is in ancient history—you can really feel the heritage and stories behind every corner of the mosque. A must-visit spot in Istanbul, whether you love architecture, culture, or simply want to enjoy a peaceful moment in a historic place. Highly recommended!..."

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mo Mo

2 weeks ago

"This definitely not the first time or the last review you read about one of the beautiful places on earth. The architecture and the amount of detailused to construct this amazing place are incredible. I was very lucky to booked a hotel smacked right in front of the hippodrome overlooking this beautiful blue mosque. Went there the first morning after breakfast and although there are so many visitors, the Istanbul tourism officers were doing a good job ensuring the smooth flow, they will be providing hair scarfs for ladies visitors with open hair (as part of respecting the islamic teachings for women’s entering a mosque), there will be many scholars who will be happy to answers any questions as well, in regards to the mosque as well for any questions about islamic religion and culture. The whole experience is taking about an hour to two hours to complete and right after that, you may walk around the area and see the hippodrome as well the garden at the back side (for less people and better angle to take photos). I also would like to say that if you can, try to book a hotel with an open upper terrace so you can witness the beauty of this place in the morning during sunrises. Oh, blue mosque is free to enter - and if you’re a muslim, you may take the opportunity to visit during prayer times (especially during fajr prayer) because the place will be almost empty and very good to take photos with less distractions!...."

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FAQs for Visiting the Blue Mosque

No, entry is free, though donations are welcome to support maintenance and restoration.

No, the mosque closes briefly for prayers five times a day. Visitors can wait outside in the courtyard.

Modest clothing is required. Women must cover their heads, and both men and women should cover shoulders and knees.

Yes, but without flash, and please avoid disturbing those who are praying.

Mornings just after opening or later in the evening are the quietest times to visit.

Nearby Attractions to the Blue Mosque

Hagia Sophia - A stunning architectural wonder with a rich Byzantine and Ottoman past.
Sultanahmet Square - The historic heart of the Old City and home to ancient monuments.
Basilica Cistern - A hauntingly beautiful underground chamber of marble columns and reflections.
Topkapi Palace - Once the opulent residence of Ottoman sultans, filled with treasures and gardens.
Museum of Turkish & Islamic Arts - Showcasing centuries of Islamic calligraphy, carpets, and ceramics.

The Blue Mosque appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Istanbul!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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