Prayer Times
It is closed to tourists during the five daily prayers; check the "Ezan" times online—Friday afternoons are the longest closure.
Description
The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) in Istanbul is breathtaking with its cascading domes, six minarets, and beautiful blue Iznik tiles lining the interior. It’s still an active place of worship, which gives it a living, spiritual energy. Inside, the space feels grand yet peaceful. The architecture is symmetrical perfection. Visiting at twilight when it lights up is pure magic.
Highlights
- Six minarets and blue-tiled interiors dazzle.
- Prayer hall welcomes visitors with etiquette.
- Night illumination adds serene grandeur.
Location
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Sultan Ahmet, Atmeydanı Caddesi 7, 34122 Fatih/Istanbul, Türkiye
Know Before You Go
Shoes
You must remove your shoes and carry them in the provided plastic bags; do not leave them on the racks outside.
Free Entry
There is no ticket fee, but donations are encouraged at the exit.
Entrance
Tourists must use the side entrance (South gate); the main central gate is reserved for worshippers.
Dress Code
If you aren't dressed appropriately, the mosque provides blue robes and headscarves for free at the entrance.
Example Itinerary
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14:00
Walk from the Basilica Cistern
Walk across the paved public pathways of Sultanahmet Square, heading toward the giant cascading domes and six minarets. -
14:30
Enter the Grand Courtyard
Pass through the stone outer gates into the vast, symmetrical marble courtyard to marvel at the classic Ottoman architecture. -
15:00
Visit the Blue Mosque
Remove your shoes to step inside the historic prayer hall, looking up to marvel at the tens of thousands of handmade blue Iznik tiles lining the walls. -
18:30
Explore the Arasta Bazaar
Walk out the southern side of the complex by nightfall to explore the historic street market for traditional carpets and teas.
