The Blue Mosque is a prominent part of view of the Istanbul skyline. Constructed under Sultan Ahmed I, it was finished in 1616. Its designer's vision was to display the Islamic faith central to the Ottoman Empire in this massive site of worship.Approach from the direction of the Hippodrome to best appreciate the grandeur of the architecture. There are six minarets and a number of soaring domes, making for a enormously striking spectacle.Go through the encircling wall into the courtyard – this area is very busy after sunset during the fast of Ramadan. The madrasa Islamic school and the hospice can be found here, as can the tomb of the man for whom the mosque is named, Sultan Ahmed I, who died just one year after its completion in 1617.The main claim to fame of the Blue Mosque is to be found in the 20,000 blue ceramic tiles adorning the interior with over 50 distinct tulip images. The upper part of the building is also painted blue, and the kaleidoscope of light provided by the stained glass windows above is a sight to behold.Entry to the mosque is free, but donations for its upkeep are welcomed. As it is continuously in use as a religious site of worship, there are a number of practices visitors are asked to respect. Silent and discreet behaviour should be observed, with no flash photography permitted. You should remove your shoes before entering and place them in one of the plastic bags which are available. Women are asked to cover their hair with a scarf.The mosque is served by the nearby Sultanahmet light rail and metro station in the Old City. The Blue Mosque is closed five times a day for prayer. In summer there are evening history classes on the site, and also breathtaking light shows – check the website before your visit.
Blue Mosque





Visit Blue Mosque
Tours & day trips
See all 1127 activities
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Private & custom tours
See all 373 activities
Cappadocia best option one day tour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 202 activities
Istanbul: Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table
Air, helicopter & balloon tours
See all 106 activities
Private Tour to Pamukkale, Hierapolis Ancient City, Laodicea Ancient City
Classes & workshops
See all 63 activities
Istanbul: Private Turkish Bath, Massage, and Spa in Old City
Reviews of Blue Mosque
5/5 - Excellent
Travel is easy with train.
4/5 - Good
under renovation so very little open
3/5 - Okay
massively under repair which really spoilt the visit
2/5 - Disappointing
Currently undergoing renovation so rather disappointing inside. The views from a distance are still superb though
3/5 - Okay
The Blue Mosque is being renovated long term I believe so not much to see
5/5 - Excellent
Currently under construction so you won't get to see much.
Popular places to visit

Arasta Bazaar
During your visit to Istanbul, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Arasta Bazaar. Visit the area's notable monuments or amble around its seaside.

Sultanahmet Square
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at Sultanahmet Square. Add the area's notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.

Tomb of Sultan Ahmet I
Learn about the local history of Istanbul when you spend time at Tomb of Sultan Ahmet I. Add the area's notable monuments or stunning cathedral to your travel plans.

German Fountain
You can find out about the history of Istanbul with a stop at German Fountain. Stroll along the seaside or visit the notable monuments in the area.

Ibrahim Pasha Palace
After visiting Ibrahim Pasha Palace, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Istanbul. Discover the area's charming cafes and its fascinating museums.

Turkish and Islamic Art Museum
You can browse the exhibits at Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your holiday in Istanbul. Experience the area's fascinating museums and acclaimed art galleries.
Top Blue Mosque Hotel Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Blue Mosque









Explore a world of travel with Expedia
Explore a world of travel with Expedia
- Holidays and getaways similar to Blue Mosque
- Hotels Near Blue Mosque
- Hotels near other Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Seven Hills Palace & Spa
- Erguvan Hotel - Special Class
- Hotel Amira Istanbul
- Hotel Arcadia Blue Istanbul
- Celine Hotel
- Amiral Palace Hotel Boutique Class
- Senatus Hotel - Special Class
- GLK PREMIER Sea Mansion Suites & Spa - Special Class
- Radisson Hotel President Old Town Istanbul
- Dersaadet Hotel - Special Class
- Hotels near Galata Tower
- Hotels near Taksim Square
- Hotels near Grand Bazaar
- Hotels near Hagia Sophia
- Hotels near Topkapi Palace
- Hotels near Bosphorus
- Hotels near Mall of Istanbul
- Hotels near Sultanahmet Square
- Hotels near Florya Beach
- Hotels near Dolmabahçe Palace
- Hotels near Eminönü Square
- Hotels near Emaar Square Mall
- Hotels near Istanbul Expo Center