Religious site

Blue Mosque, Istanbul

4.5 · 35,753 reviews
Blue Mosque, IstanbulPhoto via TripAdvisor (Liefhebber19)
Check tickets & tours

Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.

The Blue Mosque, officially Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is a masterpiece of Ottoman architecture built in the early 17th century. Its six minarets and cascading domes define Istanbul's skyline. Inside, over 20,000 handmade blue Iznik tiles adorn the walls, giving the mosque its nickname. The spacious prayer hall is lit by 260 windows, creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors can explore the courtyard and interior, experiencing the grandeur of Ottoman religious design.

Don't miss

  • Count the six minarets, a unique feature among Ottoman mosques.
  • Admire the intricate blue Iznik tiles covering the interior walls.
  • Visit during a non-prayer time to appreciate the peaceful ambiance and stained-glass windows.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Blue Mosque, Istanbul

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

More attractions in Istanbul

Planning your trip to Istanbul? See where to eat, more attractions, or build a Istanbul itinerary.