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Blue Mosque Opening Hours | Visiting Days, Best Time to Visit, & More

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Blue Mosque Opening Hours

Blue Mosque Opening Hours
  • Daily: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Closed: Around 90 mins each prayer time and 2 hours during Friday noon prayers

Note: Blue Mosque is an active mosque, that remains open to worshippers throughout the year. Other than the prayer hours, you can enter anytime you want.

Best Time to Visit Blue Mosque

  • Peak Season Vs Low Season: The peak tourist season in Istanbul usually lasts from late May to mid-September. The humidity is lower and the weather is cooler, making it the ideal time to go on walks, stroll around its gorgeous mosques, and cruise along the Bosphorus River. 

  • Weekday Vs Weekend: If you want comparatively fewer crowds, it is better to visit the Blue Mosque early, between 9 AM and 11:30 AM. You can experience the serene ambiance and appreciate its architectural beauty without disruptions. If you want to capture stunning photographs of the Blue Mosque's interior, visiting early in the morning can provide better lighting conditions and fewer obstructions. 

The Blue Mosque is known for its stunningly beautiful call to prayer, also known as the adhan, which echoes through the surrounding area. You cannot enter the mosque during prayer hours, however, you can experience the sound of the adhan from a distance. To hear the sound of the adhan rousing the surrounding area would make for a truly unforgettable experience.

How Long Should I Spend at Blue Mosque?

We recommend you spend at least 2 hours inside the Blue Mosque to explore its interiors and the Ottoman design fully. Look out for its blue Iznik tiles, from where the mosque derived its name, lining the vast interiors, featuring floral patterns and calligraphy. 

It is best to book a Blue Mosque guided tour to understand the historicity and cultural significance of the monument. They can share fascinating details about architecture, the Ottoman Empire, Islamic art, and the mosque's role in Turkish history. This deeper understanding would enrich your experience, allowing you to appreciate the mosque's beauty in a more meaningful way.

Book Blue Mosque Tours

Guided Tour of Blue Mosque
Free Cancellation
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Mobile Ticket
1 hr.
Guided Tour
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Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour Tickets
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Extended Validity
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4 hr.
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Combo: Blue Mosque + Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern Guided Tour
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3 hr.
Guided Tour
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Headout Saver: 3-Day Skip-the-Line Tickets to Top Istanbul Attractions
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Flexible Duration
Guided Tour
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Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Mosque Opening Hours

Is Blue Mosque open every day?

Yes, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul is open to worshippers and visitors throughout the year. 

When is Blue Mosque closed?

The Blue Mosque is closed only during prayer times and for around 2 hours during Friday noon prayers. You cannot enter the monument during these hours, as it is an active place of worship. 

How long should I spend at Blue Mosque?

We recommend you spend around 2 hours at the Blue Mosque to roam around its interiors, enjoy the ambiance, and understand its historicity properly. 

What is the best time to visit Blue Mosque?

It is best to visit the Blue Mosque between May to mid-September. The weather is bearable and you can comfortably explore the city’s attractions. Since it's the peak season, make sure to book Blue Mosque tours in advance. 

Is Blue Mosque open on public holidays?

Yes, the Blue Mosque in Istanbul is open throughout the year. 

Is there a dress code to follow at the Blue Mosque?

When visiting the Blue Mosque, make sure to wear clothing that covers your knees and shoulders. You have to remove your shoes at the entrance. You can leave them on the shoe rack or carry them around in a plastic bag.