Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii)

The basics

The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Mosque) is one of Istanbul’s top attractions and offers the opportunity to visit an active place of worship in the historical Sultanahmet neighborhood. Stroll through the airy courtyard and pause to soak up the atmosphere inside the mosque’s vast and curvaceous interior under cascading domes.

Most small-group and private Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) tours combine the mosque with a broader exploration of the Sultanahmet neighborhood, including the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace (Topkapi Sarayi), Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarayi), Hippodrome, and Grand Bazaar (Kapali Çarsi).

Things to know before you go

• The Blue Mosque is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.

• Wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off, as you will remove them when you enter the mosque.

• You don’t need to buy Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmet Camii) tickets, it’s free to enter.

• Headscarves for women are provided at the entrance to the mosque.

• Make sure to cover your knees and shoulders before entering.

• The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times.

• In an effort to keep the carpet clean, wheelchair users must use one of the wheelchairs provided by the mosque.

How to get there

The Blue Mosque is located in the heart of the Sultanahmet district, across from the Hagia Sophia Museum. It’s a short walk from the Sultanahmet tram stop and a slightly longer walk from the Eminonu ferry terminal. Taxis are another option; there is limited parking in Sultanahmet so it is not recommended to drive.

When to get there

Get to the Blue Mosque early, before the crowds arrive. The mosque is closed to non-Muslims during prayer times, which are listed in front of the mosque and also online. Prayer times are longer on Fridays. Muslim and Turkish holidays can also affect opening hours, so check before visiting.

What to wear to a mosque in Istanbul

Though scarves and cover-ups are provided, it helps to dress appropriately when you visit a mosque in Istanbul. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees, while men should wear long pants instead of shorts. Bring a spare scarf and wear a short-sleeve shirt with a long skirt or pants for maximum convenience and comfort. And be prepared to remove your shoes.