How to Get to the Blue Mosque in Turkey: Location, Entrances & Map
The Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) is located in the heart of Istanbul’s Old City, in the Sultanahmet district—one of the most visited areas in the city. Surrounded by Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern, it sits at the center of Istanbul’s historic and cultural heritage. Its central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.
Find below the best ways to reach the Blue Mosque using different transport options, details on its entrances, and a map to help you plan your visit.
Quick Visitor Information at a Glance
→ For visitor rules, opening hours and best visiting times, see our page: Visitor Information
How to Get to the Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is well-connected to Istanbul’s public transport system, making it easily accessible from all parts of the city.
Sultanahmet is a walkable district, making it ideal for exploring on foot.
If you're staying in Sultanahmet, Sirkeci, or Eminönü, the Blue Mosque is within easy walking distance.
The T1 Tram Line is the most convenient way to reach Sultanahmet and the Blue Mosque, offering a direct and efficient route through the city’s historic areas.
Stop: Sultanahmet Station (4-minute walk to the mosque)
Route: Runs between Bağcılar and Kabataş, passing through key districts.
Connections: Links to ferries, metro lines, and other tram routes for easy transfers.
Numerous public buses stop near Sultanahmet Square.
Main Routes:
Refer to the official Istanbul Public Transportation website for updated schedules.
Take the M2 Metro to Vezneciler Station, then walk 15 minutes or transfer to the T1 Tram.
From the Asian side, take the Marmaray Train to Sirkeci Station, then walk 10 minutes or take the T1 Tram one stop.
A taxi from Taksim to Sultanahmet costs around €6, but traffic can cause delays. Always ensure the taximeter is on.
Uber is available in Istanbul and works with regular taxis, providing a convenient alternative for tourists.
Driving is not recommended due to limited parking and heavy traffic. However, paid parking lots nearby include:
The easiest way to reach the Blue Mosque from Taksim Square is by taking the F1 Funicular to Kabataş (2 minutes), then transferring to the T1 Tram towards Bağcılar, getting off at Sultanahmet Station (20 minutes). From there, it's a 4-minute walk to the mosque.
For a more convenient but costlier option, taxis and Ubers are available, with a journey time of 15–25 minutes, depending on traffic.
Entrances to the Blue Mosque in Turkey
The Blue Mosque has three entrances, with access depending on whether you are a worshiper or visitor.

West Entrance (Facing Hagia Sophia)
Best entrance for visitors – located just across from Hagia Sophia, a 2-minute walk from Sultanahmet Square.
Most accessible and recognizable entrance for tourists.

North Entrance (Main Entrance, Facing the Hippodrome)
Reserved only for worshipers attending prayers.
Limited visitor access—exceptions may be made for people with mobility issues.
Southern Entrance (Side Entrance)
Alternative, less crowded entrance for both visitors and worshipers (closed for visitors during prayer hours.)
Location: From the main entrance, take a right and walk towards the south door to access this entrance.
Important: Expect a mandatory security check before entry. During peak season, wait times can reach up to 60 minutes. Arrive early to avoid long queues.
Accessibility & Facilities
The Blue Mosque is wheelchair accessible, but certain areas may be difficult to navigate due to its historic structure.
Wheelchair Access: Ramps available at southern and western entrances.
Toilets: Public restrooms are not available inside the mosque—use nearby facilities.
Check the exact daily prayer schedule on our Blue Mosque Prayer Times page.
→ For exact daily prayer schedules, see here the Prayer Times.
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 Location & Getting There
Where is the Blue Mosque located?
The Blue Mosque is in Sultanahmet Square, at the center of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, just across from Hagia Sophia.
What is the best way to get to the Blue Mosque?
The T1 Tram to Sultanahmet Station is the easiest option. The mosque is also walkable from Eminönü, Sirkeci, and other Old City districts.
Is there an entrance fee to the Blue Mosque?
No, entry to the Blue Mosque is free, but guided tours are recommended for a better experience. → Discover the best Blue Mosque Tours for an in-depth experience.
How far is the Blue Mosque from Istanbul Airport?
- By taxi/private transfer: ~45–60 minutes
- By public transport: ~75–90 minutes (Havaist Bus + T1 Tram)