Frequently Asked Questions about the Blue Mosque in Turkey

Yes, entry is free as it remains an active place of worship. However, visitors must pass a mandatory security check, which can take up to 30 minutes in low season and up to 1 hour during peak season. Donations are welcome.

No, you don’t need a ticket, as entry is free. However, guided tours are highly recommended for a better experience, ensuring you avoid peak times and gain historical insights. See top-rated guided tours.

Yes, a guided tour provides expert insights, helps you time your visit to avoid prayer closures, and ensures a deeper understanding of the mosque’s architecture and history.

The mosque is in Sultanahmet Square, at the heart of Istanbul’s Historic Peninsula, surrounded by Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and the Basilica Cistern. For more details, visit our page: How to get to the Blue Mosque: Location & Map

The T1 Tram to Sultanahmet Station is the most convenient way. The mosque is also within walking distance from Eminönü, Sirkeci, and other key Old City districts. 

• Havaist Airport Bus (HVL-1): No direct shuttle. Take the HVL-1 bus to Aksaray, then transfer to the T1 Tram Line at Yusufpaşa Station for Sultanahmet (~1h 15m).
• Taxi, Uber, or Private Transfer: The most convenient option, taking ~40-100 min depending on traffic. →  Book a roundtrip airport transfer here.
• Public Transport: Not recommended due to multiple transfers. Take M11 Metro to Kağıthane, then Bus 62 to Kabataş, and transfer to Tram T1 to Sultanahmet (~1h 40m).

Read more: Sultanahmet & Surroundings

Take the F1 Funicular to Kabataş, then transfer to the T1 Tram to Sultanahmet (~25 minutes). Taxis/Ubers are also available, taking 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.

Commissioned by Sultan Ahmed I, it was built between 1609–1616 by Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa, a student of the famous Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. Read more: History of the Blue Mosque

The interior is decorated with over 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, giving the mosque its distinct blue glow. While its official name is Sultanahmet Camii, it is commonly referred to as the Blue Mosque.

Sultan Ahmed I wanted it to rival the Grand Mosque of Mecca, which also had six minarets. To resolve the controversy, an additional minaret was later built in Mecca.

The mosque’s interior is adorned with intricate calligraphy, Iznik tiles, a grand prayer hall, stained-glass windows, and large chandeliers originally fitted with ostrich eggs. The mihrab (prayer niche) and minbar (pulpit) are finely crafted from marble. See more about the interior.

Summer (April–September): 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Winter (October–March): 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

No, the mosque is closed to visitors during prayers. Each session lasts around 90 minutes. More information: Blue Mosque prayer times

Yes, it is open daily, but prayer closures apply.

Most visits last 30–45 minutes, but security queues can add 30–60 minutes during peak hours. A guided tour ensures a smoother visit. See available guided tours.

Visitors must dress modestly:
✅ Men & women: Shoulders and knees must be covered.
✅ Women: Must wear a headscarf (available for purchase at the entrance).
✅ Shoes must be removed before entering.

Full dress code details here.

Small backpacks are allowed, but large bags or suitcases are not permitted. Bag checks are mandatory.

Yes, photography is allowed, but no flash photography and no photos of worshipers.