Blue Mosque tickets & tours

4.3(6.6K Ratings)

Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.




 Istanbul Blue Mosque courtyard
Istanbul Blue Mosque
Girls in front of  Istanbul Blue Mosque
Interior of Istanbul Blue Mosque
 A man in front of Istanbul Blue Mosque
Istanbul Blue Mosque Gardens
 Istanbul Blue Mosque courtyard
Istanbul Blue Mosque
Girls in front of  Istanbul Blue Mosque
Interior of Istanbul Blue Mosque
 A man in front of Istanbul Blue Mosque
Istanbul Blue Mosque Gardens
 Istanbul Blue Mosque courtyard
Istanbul Blue Mosque
Girls in front of  Istanbul Blue Mosque
Interior of Istanbul Blue Mosque
 A man in front of Istanbul Blue Mosque
Istanbul Blue Mosque Gardens
Guided Tours
4.2(1.3K)

Blue Mosque Guided Tour

from
€15
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr. - 5 hr.
Audio guide
  • Enjoy a tour of Istanbul’s UNESCO-listed Blue Mosque with an enthusiastic local guide – recently open after 5 years of extensive renovation!
  • Take a complimentary walking tour of the Old City as many of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman-built gems, including the mosque, are found here.
  • Admire the interior of the mosque with carved tiles and painted glass windows. Other decorative elements include geometric bands and organic medallions.
  • Choose an add-on tour to delve into the wonders of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, or Basilica Cistern, or embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise.
  • Enjoy a tour of Istanbul’s UNESCO-listed Blue Mosque with an enthusiastic local guide – recently open after 5 years of extensive renovation!
  • Take a complimentary walking tour of the Old City as many of Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman-built gems, including the mosque, are found here.
  • Admire the interior of the mosque with carved tiles and painted glass windows. Other decorative elements include geometric bands and organic medallions.
  • Choose an add-on tour to delve into the wonders of Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, or Basilica Cistern, or embark on a scenic Bosphorus cruise.

Inclusions

  • 1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque
  • English-speaking guide
  • Entry to the Blue Mosque
  • Walking tour of the Old City around Blue Mosque (as per option selected)
  • 1-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
  • Entry to Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
  • 20-minute Basilica Cistern guided tour (as per option selected)
  • Entry to Basilica Cistern (as per option selected)
  • 90-minute Bosphorus Cruise (as per option selected)
  • Audio guide for cruise in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic, and Chinese (as per option selected)
  • Tip: Don't forget to check out the 'paradise garden' mausoleum of Sultan Ahmed I, his wife, and his 3 sons outside in the courtyard.
  • Hagia Sophia is under renovation, therefore, not all parts of the building are open to the public.
  • Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommend visiting after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
  • Hagia Sophia is not accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern are wheelchair accessible.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Guided tour of Blue mosque, Istanbul
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque interiors
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia interiors
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Courtyards at Istanbul
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Guided tour of Blue mosque, Istanbul
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque interiors
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia interiors
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Courtyards at Istanbul
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Guided tour of Blue mosque, Istanbul
Blue Mosque
Blue Mosque interiors
Hagia Sophia, Istanbul
Hagia Sophia interiors
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Courtyards at Istanbul
Guided tour of old city, Istanbul
Guided Tours
4.0(881)

Istanbul Mosques: Guided Tour of Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque with Entry Tickets

from €56
€53

5% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Visit 2 of Istanbul’s top attractions – Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – at a discounted price with this combo ticket that includes a local guide.
  • Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque, which is now open to the general public after 5 years of extensive renovations.
  • Experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia, the largest religious building in Turkey, and view its magnificent dome featuring 40 windows.
  • Join a complimentary walking tour of the Old City around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and click amazing pictures of any gems of the Ottoman Empire!
  • Visit 2 of Istanbul’s top attractions – Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque – at a discounted price with this combo ticket that includes a local guide.
  • Marvel at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Blue Mosque, which is now open to the general public after 5 years of extensive renovations.
  • Experience the beauty of Hagia Sophia, the largest religious building in Turkey, and view its magnificent dome featuring 40 windows.
  • Join a complimentary walking tour of the Old City around the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, and click amazing pictures of any gems of the Ottoman Empire!

Inclusions

Hagia Sophia

  • Hagia Sophia Mosque entrance tickets to the visiting area
  • 1-hr guided tour of Hagia Sophia
  • English-speaking guide

Blue Mosque

  • Entry to the Blue Mosque
  • 1-hr guided tour of the Blue Mosque
  • English-speaking guide
  • Old City tour

Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia

  • Tip: If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).
  • Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
  • Photography and outside food and drinks are allowed.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Illuminated columns of The Basilica Cistern
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Blue Mosque exterior with minarets in Istanbul, Turkey.
Guided tour of Blue Mosque Istanbul
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Tour guide showing a group of tourists around the historic Dolmabahce Palace, with a view of the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern in the background, during a Combo Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Guided Tour in Istanbul
Tourists exploring the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, a unique combo tour offering skip-the-line tickets and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, saving 9%
Tourists exploring the stunning Blue Mosque, a highlight of the Combo Tour: Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Illuminated columns of The Basilica Cistern
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Blue Mosque exterior with minarets in Istanbul, Turkey.
Guided tour of Blue Mosque Istanbul
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Tour guide showing a group of tourists around the historic Dolmabahce Palace, with a view of the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern in the background, during a Combo Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Guided Tour in Istanbul
Tourists exploring the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, a unique combo tour offering skip-the-line tickets and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, saving 9%
Tourists exploring the stunning Blue Mosque, a highlight of the Combo Tour: Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Illuminated columns of The Basilica Cistern
Medusa sculpture inside the basilica cistern
Blue Mosque exterior with minarets in Istanbul, Turkey.
Guided tour of Blue Mosque Istanbul
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul on sunny day
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Tour guide showing a group of tourists around the historic Dolmabahce Palace, with a view of the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern in the background, during a Combo Dolmabahce Palace, Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Guided Tour in Istanbul
Tourists exploring the historic Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, a unique combo tour offering skip-the-line tickets and a hop-on hop-off bus tour, saving 9%
Tourists exploring the stunning Blue Mosque, a highlight of the Combo Tour: Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Guided Tours
4.0(499)

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

from
€89
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
4 hr.
  • Enjoy a guided tour of 3 of Istanbul’s iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over a span of 2 days.
  • Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert English-speaking guide.
  • Admire the artwork here with raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings as you to the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
  • Soak up the architectural charm and beauty of the Blue Mosque as you admire the hand-painted blue tiles that adorn the mosque’s interior walls.
  • See the 5 main domes, 6 minarets, and 8 secondary domes and learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam and Istanbul’s rich heritage from your guide.
  • Enter Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires and admire its architectural beauty.
  • Enjoy a guided tour of 3 of Istanbul’s iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over a span of 2 days.
  • Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert English-speaking guide.
  • Admire the artwork here with raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings as you to the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
  • Soak up the architectural charm and beauty of the Blue Mosque as you admire the hand-painted blue tiles that adorn the mosque’s interior walls.
  • See the 5 main domes, 6 minarets, and 8 secondary domes and learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam and Istanbul’s rich heritage from your guide.
  • Enter Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, an important monument both for the Byzantine and the Ottoman Empires and admire its architectural beauty.

Inclusions

Basilica Cistern

  • 30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern
  • Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern
  • Expert English-speaking guide

Blue Mosque

  • 60-min guided tour of the Blue Mosque
  • Entry to the Blue Mosque
  • English-speaking guide

Hagia Sophia

  • 60-min guided tour of Hagia Sophia
  • Skip-the-line tickets to Hagia Sophia
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Audio guide inside Hagia Sophia

Basilica Cistern

  • Tip: The underground cistern is dark and damp, which can lead to a drop in temperature. It’s best to carry a light cardigan to keep yourself warm.

Blue Mosque

  • Tip: Look out for decorations and items inside the mosque inscribed with the names of the caliphs and verses from the Quran.
  • This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
  • Please note that the security line can take up to 60 minutes in the high season.
  • If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is 1€ and a body cover is 3€).

Hagia Sophia

  • Tip: Don’t forget to make a wish at one of Hagia Sophia’s columns, known as the ‘wishing column.’ Legend has it that if you poke your finger through a hole in the column and your finger emerges wet, your wishes will come true and you’ll be cured of any illness. No harm in trying!
  • This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
  • Please expect a considerable wait time as you enter the attraction, especially during holidays and weekends.
  • Security checks at Hagia Sophia take approximately 30 minutes.
  • Since it is a religious place, guests are requested to wear clothes that cover their arms and head.
  • While photography is allowed, all visitors are requested to refrain from turning on flash and using bulky accessories like tripods.
  • Hagia Sophia may be closed during prayer times as it is a place of religious worship.
  • These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of experience.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 2 days from the date of purchase.
Topkapi Palace Courtyard
Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace Museum
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Exterior of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Couple listening to audio guide inside the blue mosque
Interiors of the Topkapi palace
Woman listening to audio guide inside Topkapi palace
Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace Courtyard
Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace Museum
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Exterior of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Couple listening to audio guide inside the blue mosque
Interiors of the Topkapi palace
Woman listening to audio guide inside Topkapi palace
Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Topkapi Palace Courtyard
Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace Museum
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Exterior of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Couple listening to audio guide inside the blue mosque
Interiors of the Topkapi palace
Woman listening to audio guide inside Topkapi palace
Interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Combos
3.9(87)

Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Blue Mosque Guided Tours with Skip-the-Line Tickets

from
€109
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Save big on your Istanbul trip with a combo to plan your visit across 3 days to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque.
  • You have the flexibility to plan your visit across 3 days. Decide the best time to go that suits your vacation schedule.
  • Lavish interiors and tales from Ottoman rule await at Topkapi Palace, along with captivating views of the Bosphorus river from the gardens.
  • A cathedral, a mosque, and a museum - your guide will introduce you to the many facets of the architectural feat that is Hagia Sophia.
  • With cascading domes, embellished high ceilings, and handcrafted blue ceramic tiles, Blue Mosque is a sight you won’t be forgetting any time soon.
  • Save big on your Istanbul trip with a combo to plan your visit across 3 days to Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, and Blue Mosque.
  • You have the flexibility to plan your visit across 3 days. Decide the best time to go that suits your vacation schedule.
  • Lavish interiors and tales from Ottoman rule await at Topkapi Palace, along with captivating views of the Bosphorus river from the gardens.
  • A cathedral, a mosque, and a museum - your guide will introduce you to the many facets of the architectural feat that is Hagia Sophia.
  • With cascading domes, embellished high ceilings, and handcrafted blue ceramic tiles, Blue Mosque is a sight you won’t be forgetting any time soon.

Inclusions

Topkapi Palace

  • Skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace
  • 1-hr English-guided tour

Hagia Sophia

  • Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
  • 1-hr English-guided tour
  • Audio guide in 23 languages

Blue Mosque

  • Entry to Blue Mosque
  • 1-hr English-guided tour

Exclusions

  • Skip-the-line entry to Blue Mosque

Topkapi Palace

  • Tip: Try to plan your visit early morning on weekdays for lesser crowds and quieter explorations.
  • The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.

Hagia Sophia

  • Tip: The ground floor offers the best photo opportunities with its exquisite interiors and ceiling.
  • This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
  • Please note that during the high season, the waiting time for security checks is around 60 minutes.
  • To enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, women must cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. They must also partially cover their hair with a scarf. Men must cover their knees and shoulders. If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is €1 and a body cover is €3).
  • The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.

Blue Mosque

  • Tip: The mosque is closed to visitors during prayer times for 90 minutes. It is advised to check the prayer schedule before planning your visit.
  • This tour is not available on Tuesdays.
  • Please note that during the high season, the waiting time for security checks is around 45 minutes.
  • To enter the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, women must cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. They must also partially cover their hair with a scarf. Men must cover their knees and shoulders. If you do not have a scarf or body cover, you can buy them at the entrance (a scarf is €1 and a body cover is €3).
  • The attraction is wheelchair accessible. However, access to some areas may be challenging due to uneven surfaces or steps.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase.
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Istanbul Megapass
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Busforus at Tophane Clock tower, Istanbul
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Dolmabahce Palace from Sightseeing Cruise, Bosphorus
Exterior of the Topkapi palace
City Cards
3.6(24)

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

from
€98
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Transfers included
  • Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
  • With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
  • A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
  • For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!
  • Want to save time and enjoy much flexibility? The Istanbul MegaPass is the one for you! Access multiple attractions with classic, premium, or deluxe passes, valid for 7 days!
  • With your pass, enjoy a Bosphorus cruise, Blue Mosque tour, transportation card, route maps, and audio guides for all attractions—saving up to 37%!
  • A Classic MegaPass allows you to choose 2 top attractions–Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern, and activities like Turkish Hamam. Find the full list here
  • For a more elevated experience choose the Premium or the all-inclusive Deluxe pass to explore more attractions and more flexibility at a great deal!

Inclusions

  • Choice of 2/4/9 of Istanbul's top attractions
  • Attractions: Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, Basilica Cistern, Dolmabahce Palace
  • Cruises: Bosphorus cruise, Dinner cruise on Bosphorus with Turkish drinks and food
  • Tours: Asian side walking tour, Blue Mosque tour,
  • Access to hop on hop off bus tour
  • Activities: Dervish Ceremony, Turkish bath & Hamam
  • 5-ride transportation card
  • Digital guide book
  • City, tram & metro map
  • There is no reservation needed for any activity except the Bosphorus Dinner cruise.
  • Each pass is valid for 7 consecutive days including the first day of use.
  • You can visit multiple attractions in a day but you can only visit each attraction once with this pass.
  • You do have skip-the-line access but you will still need to go through security.
  • You’ll receive an email shortly afterward with your tickets after you've picked a pass of your choice.
  • If you're someone who likes a physical pass, you can print the PDF or show the PDF at the attraction so they scan your QR ticket.
  • For the all-inclusive pass, you will also receive all your tickets.
  • You can change the chosen attractions as many times as you want, or you can cancel the pass free of charge up to 1 day before the service date.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
Exterior of Hagia Sophia in Istanbul
Guided tour inside Hagia Sophia
Ceiling of Hagia Sophia Sophia
Exterior of Blue Mosque in Istanbul
Guided and tourist in front of the Blue mosque
Interior of dome of Blue Mosque
Cruise ship on the Bosphorus strait in Istanbul
Maiden's Tower (Kiz Kulesi) on the Bosphorus
Dolmabahce Palace by the Bosphorus Strait
The gate of Salutation in Topkapi Palace
Guided Tours
4.4(272)

Istanbul Top Museums 3-Day Pass: Guided Tour + Entry Tickets & Free Bosphorus Cruise

from €179
€149

17% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
  • Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days.
  • Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
  • Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from your guide before you enter.
  • Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
  • Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.
  • Enjoy a guided tour of Istanbul’s best iconic attractions with this one combo ticket that you can use in 1 day or over 2 or 3 days.
  • Learn about the illustrious history of each of these landmarks from your expert English-speaking guide.
  • Gain valuable insights about the iconic Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque from your guide before you enter.
  • Explore Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern while listening to interesting stories through an audio guide app available in 8 languages.
  • Sail away on a relaxing 90-minute cruise of the Bosphorus Waterway as you admire the architectural beauty of Istanbul from a different perspective.

Inclusions

  • 60-min Topkapi Palace tour with skip-the-line entry
  • 30-min Basilica Cistern tour with skip-the-line entry
  • 60-min Hagia Sophia tour with entry
  • 90-min Blue Mosque tour with entry
  • 90-min Bosphorus Cruise ticket
  • English-speaking guide for all attractions
  • Audio app in 10 languages

Day 1

  • Hagia Sophia Mosque
  • Blue Mosque
  • Bosphorus Cruise Tickets

Day 2

  • Topkapi Palace
  • Basilica Cistern
  • Tip: Topkapi Palace's ground floor has the best Instagram potential. You get to photograph the stunning interiors and beautiful ceilings.
  • The audio guide is available in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish.
  • Facilities: Pram/Stroller Accessibility.
  • For Hagia Sophia, Women are required to cover their knees, shoulders, and chest. Their hair should be partially covered with a scarf. Men are required to cover their knees and shoulders. If you don't have a scarf or covering, it can be purchased at the entrance, at your own expense.
  • With this admission ticket (except for Hagia Sophia), you will skip the ticket line, but not the security line. During high season, the security check could take up to 30 minutes.
  • This tour is not wheelchair accessible and is not suitable for pets.
  • Your guide will show you the way to each attraction, then you can set your own pace for exploring.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
  • These tickets are valid for 3 days from the date of purchase.

Blue Mosque in Istanbul | A tilework tapestry

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is an iconic masterpiece of Ottoman architecture built in the early 17th century. This monument derived its name from the blue Iznik tiles adorning its interiors. These tiles feature intricate patterns and calligraphy, creating a visual spectacle on the outside. It is one of the only mosques in Istanbul with six minarets. The inside of the Blue Mosque is equally impressive, with stained glass windows, grand chandeliers, and a giant central dome. The Blue Mosque is also open to the public and serves as an active mosque, accommodating thousands of visitors every day. 

Navigate your Blue Mosque tour guide

  • Things to know before you book your Blue Mosque tour
  • Which Blue Mosque tour is best for you?
  • Blue Mosque Istanbul photos
  • Highlights of your Sultanahmet Mosque tour
  • Plan your visit to the Blue Mosque
  • Beyond Blue Mosque in Istanbul
  • Frequently asked questions about Blue Mosque tickets

Things to know before you book your Blue Mosque tour

  • Entry to the Blue Mosque is free. However, since it is an active place of worship, visitors cannot enter the mosque during prayer times. If you plan to visit by yourself, plan it so that you don’t have to wait too long to enter.
  • While entry to the Blue Mosque is free, we recommend taking a guided tour to fully understand its historical and cultural significance. An expert local guide will show you around the mosque and its different areas, and share interesting stories and facts about its rich and intriguing history.
  • The Blue Mosque is located at Sultanahmet Square, which also houses many of Istanbul’s other top historical landmarks. To make the most of your visit, opt for a combo ticket with which you can cover attractions like Hagia Sofia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern along with the Blue Mosque.
  • While there are no ticket lines for the Blue Mosque, all visitors have to undergo a mandatory security check. You might have to wait up to 30 minutes during the off-peak season and up to 1 hour during the peak season in the security check lines before entry.
  • Make sure to book your guided tour tickets well in advance if you are visiting the Blue Mosque during the peak season (May to mid-September).
  • Since the Blue Mosque is a place of worship, make sure to adhere to the dress code. Both men and women must cover their shoulders and knees, and women must cover their hair with a scarf.
  • While most areas of the Sultanahmet Mosque are accessible by wheelchair, keep in mind that some areas may have limited access due to its historical architecture.

Which Blue Mosque tour is best for you?

If you are a budget-conscious traveller

Go for: Guided tour
Duration: 1 hour
Guide: Expert English-speaking guide

  • Explore the Blue Mosque with an expert English-speaking guide, who will enrich your experience with in-depth insights into its history, significance, and cultural context.
  • Your guide will take you through the different areas of the mosque, show you its important features, and share stories and anecdotes about the historical landmark.
  • Consider upgrading your ticket and exploring either Hagia Sophia or Basilica Cistern along with the Blue Mosque.

Recommended ticket:

If you are a history enthusiast

Go for: Combo tours
Duration: 3 hours, 4 hours
Guide: English-speaking guide

  • Delve into Istanbul's vibrant past and its Ottoman and Byzantine heritage by visiting its most important historical sites — such as the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace — along with the Blue Mosque in a single ticket.
  • You can take guided tours of each of these sites, where an expert English-speaking guide will accompany you and share fascinating insights into the historical significance of each attraction.

Recommended ticket:

If you are looking to explore beyond the Blue Mosque

Go for: City tour
Duration: Multiple days
Guide: English-speaking guide, audio guides

  • Visit all the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul, including the Blue Mosque, with guided tours in a single ticket.
  • This ticket is valid for 3 days, allowing you to explore the sites at your own pace.
  • A Bosphorus cruise is also included in this ticket, allowing you to experience the beauty of Istanbul from the water.

Recommended ticket:

Highlights of your Sultanahmet Mosque tour

Blue Mosque Ceiling
Blue Mosque Royal Kiosk
Stained Glass Windows at the Blue Mosque
The Great Tablets at the Blue Mosque

The Great Tablets

The mosque’s enormous tablets have Quranic verses and the names of the Caliphs etched on them. They were created by the renowned Diyarbakir calligrapher Seyyid Kasim Gubari in the 17th century.

The Forecourt at the Blue Mosque

The Forecourt

The forecourt of the Blue Mosque is surrounded by a continuous vaulted arcade and has turrets on its corner domes. The rest of the facade is the same as that of the Suleymaniye Mosque.

The Minarets at the Blue Mosque

The Minarets

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque has six minarets, four of which are visible from the corners. These fluted, pencil-shaped minarets each have three stalactite corbels, known as ‘Erefe’. 

The Courtyard at the Blue Mosque

The Courtyard

The spacious courtyard of the mosque before the main prayer area is known as ‘Avlu’. It also has a beautiful fountain where worshippers perform ritual washing before prayers. 

The Sahn at the Blue Mosque

The Sahn

The mosque’s courtyard leads up to the ‘Sahn’, an open area surrounded by covered arcades. Make sure to admire the intricate tilework and decorative elements on the exterior walls. 

The Mihrab and the Minbar at the Blue Mosque

The Mihrab and the Minbar

Positioned on the qibla wall and covered in intricate decorations, the Mihrab is a niche indicating the direction of Mecca while the Minrab is a pulpit from where the main Imam delivers sermons.

Plan your visit to the Blue Mosque

Timings
Getting there
Entrance
Accessibility
Facilities
Rules
Eat
Stay
Tips
Blue Mosque opening hours
Blue Mosque opening hours
  • Daily: 9 am to 6 pm
  • Closed: During prayer hours

Best time to visit: Around 9:30 am to 11 am

Best month to visit: November to March

Blue Mosque prayer timings

The Blue Mosque is closed during prayer hours to non-worshippers and visitors. Make sure to check Blue Mosque's prayer hours for a hassle-free touring experience.

Blue Mosque prayer timings >

How to Reach the Blue Mosque?
Blue Mosque entrances

The Blue Mosque has 3 entrances- the main entrance in the north facing the Hippodrome, another on the western side facing the Hagia Sophia, and another on the southern side of the mosque. 

  • Main entrance: This entrance is reserved only for worshippers. The authorities may make exceptions for visitors with limited mobility and allow them to enter through this gate. 
  • Hagia Sophia entrance: This gate is one of the most accessible and recognizable entrances to the mosque, situated opposite the Hagia Sophia, and only a 2-minute walk from Sultanahmet. 
  • Southern entrance: This is another entrance that non-worshippers and visitors can use. Please note that this entrance remains closed during prayer hours. 
Facilities Available at the Blue Mosque
What to Eat Near the Blue Mosque?
  • Serbethane: Make sure to try the baklava, Turkish pizza, and apple tea. It also offers vegan and gluten-free options. (1.7 km)
  • Arasta Cafe and Restaurant: They are famous for their Turkish food and warm customer service. This restaurant also offers halal, vegetarian, and vegan options. (1.9 km)
  • The Ottomans Kitchen Cafe and Restaurant: From seafood, Mediterranean, and Turkish to steak barbecues, this restaurant offers it all. You can also find a good variety of baklava and vegetarian options. (1.7 km)
  • As You See Seafood and Kebab: As their name suggests, this eatery is famous for its fresh seafood. They also offer complimentary tea and treats. (1.7 km)
  • Tamara Restaurant: Make sure to try the sucuclu pide, beyti, and coban kovurma. Their lentil curry soup is also famous among visitors. (130.0 m)
  • En La Luna Terrace: This is a rooftop dining restaurant that serves delicious seafood and kebabs along with fantastic views of the city skyline. (2.0 km)
Stays near the Blue Mosque
Tips to Note When Visiting the Blue Mosque

Beyond Blue Mosque in Istanbul

Frequently asked questions about Blue Mosque tickets

What is the Blue Mosque?

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is one of the prime examples of Ottoman architecture in Istanbul. Constructed in the 17th century, it is the only mosque in Istanbul that has six minarets. The upper levels and ceilings are lined with more than 20,000 Iznek tiles, which truly reflect the splendor of the Ottoman reign. 

How can I visit the Blue Mosque?

Booking Blue Mosque tours are the ideal way to explore this important historical site in Istanbul and learn all about its rich past. Make sure to book Blue Mosque tickets online to avail yourself of discounted deals on guided tours and combo offers.

Where can I buy Blue Mosque tickets?

We recommend that you purchase your tickets for Blue Mosque tours online. Guided tours are the ideal way to explore the site since they do not clash with the prayer times at the mosque, when the site is closed to visitors.  

How much do Blue Mosque tickets cost?

The Blue Mosque tickets and guided tours start from . While you do not need to pay any entry fees to enter the mosque, we recommend choosing guided tours with an expert tour guide to ensure a hassle-free tour. A professional guide also familiarizes you with the rich history of the mosque.

What are the different types of Blue Mosque tickets available?

You can opt for a Blue Mosque guided tour or you can purchase combo ticket options that include access to the Hagia Sophia or Topkapi Palace along with the Blue Mosque. 

What are some of the highlights of the Blue Mosque?

When visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, look out for its six minarets and gorgeous cascading domes. The upper levels are adorned with thousands of blue Iznek tiles. It also has a spacious courtyard. The grand prayer hall features a stunning arrangement of pillars and arches, while the mihrab (prayer niche) is embellished with finely detailed tile work. 

What are Blue Mosque's clothing rules?

We recommend you wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting the Sultanahmet Mosque. Women must wear scarves inside the mosque premises. You can find scarves at the Blue Mosque's entrance.

Where is Blue Mosque located?

The Sultanahmet mosque is situated right next to the Hagia Sophia. The Blue Mosque's address is Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih in Istanbul, Turkey.

What are the Blue Mosque's opening hours?

The Sultanahmet Mosque is open to worshippers and the public every day from 9 AM to 5 PM throughout the year. However, visitors cannot enter the premises during Blue Mosque prayer times.

How can I reach the Blue Mosque?

You can get on any bus between 38B, 77A, or BN1 and reach Akbiyik- Eminonu (Sahil) Yonu, a short walk from the Blue Mosque. You can also get on the Atakoy to Pendik or the Halkali to Gebze train or the M2 metro and get down at the Sirkeci station. It is a short while away from the Blue Mosque. 

What facilities are available at the Blue Mosque?

The Blue Mosque is equipped with ramps and elevators to help tourists on wheelchairs or strollers to navigate the space. While most of the area is easily accessible, there are some limitations due to its Ottoman architectural design. 

Is the Blue Mosque wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the Blue Mosque has ramps and elevators to help visitors on wheelchairs navigate the space. These ramps are on the northwest side of the building near the Hippodrome and the Obelisks. 

Is photography allowed at the Blue Mosque?

Yes, you can click pictures of the interiors and architectural designs of the Blue Mosque, however, you must be respectful at all times. Please refrain from using commercial equipment like tripods or flash photography as they may disturb other worshippers. 

Should I buy Blue Mosque tickets in advance?

Yes, we recommend you buy tickets for Blue Mosque tours in advance since it is a popular attraction right at the heart of Sultanahmet Square and receives thousands of visitors throughout the year.

How long should I spend at the Blue Mosque?

We recommend you spend around 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the Blue Mosque's interiors and understand its historical significance. If you book Blue Mosque guided tours, an expert tour guide will accompany you for a 2-hour tour through the mosque’s prayer halls and interiors. 

Is the Blue Mosque worth visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, the Blue Mosque is one of the must-visit attractions in Istanbul. It is the only mosque in Istanbul with 6 minarets and around 20,000 blue Iznik tiles adorning its upper levels. The interplay of light through its grand prayer halls and the stained glass windows make it a remarkable sight to behold.