The Blue Mosque

About this place

The Blue Mosque, officially known as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1617 for Sultan Ahmed I and remains one of Istanbul’s most important imperial mosques. It is a masterpiece of classical Ottoman architecture, designed by Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a student of Mimar Sinan, with cascading domes, six minarets, and a vast central prayer hall. Its popular nickname comes from the thousands of blue İznik tiles decorating the interior, while the courtyard and proportions create a grand yet harmonious silhouette beside the old Hippodrome. Still an active place of worship, it combines historical prestige, religious life, and one of the city’s most recognizable skylines.

Getting there: Sultanahmet Tram Stop is the nearest major stop, about 350 m away, around 5 minutes on foot. From the stop, walk past Sultanahmet Square toward the mosque’s main outer courtyard. Marmaray Sirkeci is farther away and usually requires a longer walk or tram connection.

Note: Entry is free, but visitors should dress modestly; women may need a headscarf, and shoulders and knees should be covered for everyone. Shoes must be removed before entering the prayer area, and visits can be paused or restricted during prayer times. Early morning or late afternoon is usually calmer, while midday and weekends tend to be busier.

Plan your visit

Visit duration

45 minutes

Tickets

Free entry for all visitors; no ticket required. Adult: $0, Student: $0, Child: $0. No official paid tiers; donations optional. Paid guided tours sold elsewhere are optional, not entry tickets.

Address

Cankurtaran, At Meydanı Cd No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Opening hours

• Friday: 09:00-18:00
• Monday: 09:00-18:00
• Sunday: 09:00-18:00
• Tuesday: 09:00-18:00
• Saturday: 09:00-18:00
• Thursday: 09:00-18:00
• Wednesday: 09:00-18:00