Blue Mosque Istanbul: Prayer Times & Closures
The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, and visitors are not permitted inside during prayer times. To avoid disruptions, it is best not to visit within 30 minutes after the call to prayer (Ezan), as this is when worshipers gather for prayer.
The call to prayer (Ezan) is announced from the mosque’s minarets five times a day, signaling the start of each prayer. During these times, the mosque closes its prayer hall to non-worshipers.
On this page, you will find the approximate daily prayer times, details on Friday prayer closures, and important information to help you plan your visit accordingly.
Quick Visitor Information at a Glance
Blue Mosque Prayer Times & Daily Closures
The Blue Mosque is closed to visitors five times a day during prayers. Each closure lasts approximately 90 minutes, encompassing the prayer duration and time allocated for worshipers to enter and exit.
Approximate Prayer Times (subject to seasonal changes)
Islamic prayer times are based on the position of the sun, meaning they change slightly each day throughout the year. See below the approximate prayer hours in Istanbul:
Fajr (Morning Prayer): Before sunrise (~5:00 AM – 6:30 AM)
Dhuhr (Midday Prayer): Early afternoon (~1:00 PM – 1:30 PM)
Asr (Afternoon Prayer): Late afternoon (~4:30 PM – 5:00 PM)
Maghrib (Evening Prayer): Just after sunset (~6:00 PM – 7:00 PM)
Isha (Night Prayer): At night (~8:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
→ Prayer times vary daily. For exact timings, please refer to the Official Istanbul Prayer Times.
Please be aware that on Fridays, the mosque opens to visitors after 2:30 PM due to extended midday prayers:
Friday Prayer (Jumu’ah) Closures
On Fridays, the prayer section is closed all morning until 2:30 PM for mosque cleaning and preparation for Jumu’ah prayers.
Visitors are only allowed in designated areas from 2:30 PM onwards.
Expect larger crowds as Friday prayers are the most significant weekly congregation.
Alternative plan: Visit Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace or other attractions near the Blue Mosque in the morning and return later in the day.
→ Read more: Sultanahmet Square & Surroundings
Best Time to Visit
Blue Mosque Around Prayer Times
Before planning your visit to the Blue Mosque, here are some essential things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and respectful experience.
Blue Mosque Istanbul: Tickets & Tours
Bestselling Single Guided Tour
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Blue Mosque with an official expert guide. Immerse yourself in a captivating 60-minute journey through this architectural masterpiece.
Includes
- 60-min. Blue Mosque tour
- English-speaking tour guide
- Unlimited stay inside afterward
Bestselling Combo with Hagia Sophia Ticket
Experience Istanbul’s two most iconic mosques! Enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of the breathtaking Blue Mosque, then skip the lines and explore the majestic Hagia Sophia at your own pace.
Includes
- Hagia Sophia entrance tickets
- 1-hr tour of Hagia Sophia w/ English-speaking guide
- 1-hr tour of Blue Mosque w/ English-speaking guide
- Old City tour
Most Selling Istanbul Combo (including Blue Mosque Tour)
Discover Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks—the Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, & Hagia Sophia—with an English-speaking expert guide.
Includes
- Basilica Cistern: 30-min guided tour + skip-the-line ticket
- Blue Mosque: 1-hr guided tour
- Hagia Sophia: Skip-the-line ticket + 1-hr guided tour + audio guide
Bestselling Combo with Basilica Cistern
Enjoy a 60-minute guided tour of the Blue Mosque, then skip the lines and explore the mystical Basilica Cistern with an audio guide.
Includes
- Basilica Cistern: Skip-the-line ticket + digital audio guide
- Blue Mosque: 1-hr guided tour w/ English-speaking guide
Top-Value City Pass (including Blue Mosque Tour)
With this pass, visit 2 major attractions, enjoy the Blue Mosque, cruise the Bosphorus and access public transport for hassle-free sightseeing in Istanbul.
Includes
- Blue Mosque tour
- 1 Bosphorus Cruise
- 5-ride public transport card
- 2 additional attractions of your choice
- Audio guide
FAQs – Blue Mosque Prayer Times & Closures
Can I enter the Blue Mosque during prayer times?
No, the mosque is closed to visitors during prayers. → More visitor information here.
How long does the Blue Mosque remain closed for prayers?
Each prayer session lasts approximately 90 minutes.
Can I enter during prayer times?
No, the Blue Mosque is not open to visitors during prayer times. Please refer to our page with the Prayer Times for exact timings.
Is the Blue Mosque in Istanbul open on Fridays?
Yes, the Blue Mosque is open of Fridays, but it remains closed to visitors until 2:30 PM due to Friday prayers.
When is the best time to visit the Blue Mosque in Turkey?
The best time to visit the Blue Mosque is Weekday mornings (9:00 AM – 11:30 AM) or late afternoons, avoiding prayer times. → Read more: Blue Mosque Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit
Are guided tours available to plan around prayer times?
Yes, guided tours ensure you visit at the best times while learning about the mosque’s history. → See available tours.
This website is not the official venue's website. This website is giving you only an overview of the available tours.
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