Blue Mosque Visitor Guide 2025 – Entrances, Dress Code & Best Hours

Bottom line: The Blue Mosque is an active mosque with free entry. Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered), avoid prayer windows for sightseeing, and arrive early morning or late afternoon to reduce queues.

Quick Facts

• Name: Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque)
• Built: 1609–1617 by Sedefkâr Mehmed Ağa
• Distinctive: Six minarets, cascading domes, extensive Iznik tiles
• Entry: Free; interior access pauses during prayers

Entrances & Flow

• Main courtyard approach from Sultanahmet Square; security checks precede entry.
• Modesty checks may occur; coverings are sometimes provided at the gate.
• Interior circulation follows roped lanes; pause respectfully when prayers begin.

Tip

Temporary ropes signal prayer preparation. Follow staff guidance — lanes are clear and friendly.

Dress Code & Behavior

• Shoulders and knees covered; head covering optional for non‑Muslim visitors but appreciated.
• Footwear: keep on unless entering prayer‑only carpet areas; follow posted instructions.
• Photography: allowed in public areas; avoid flash during prayer; no tripods.
• Silence & respect: lower voice, no music, do not cross prayer rows.

Prayer Times & Best Hours

• Daily prayers: Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha; Friday noon (Dhuhr) is busiest.
• Best sightseeing windows: 1–2 hours after Fajr (morning calm) or late afternoon before sunset.
• Check local boards for the exact day’s schedule.

Reminder

Photography during sermon is discouraged. Pause and appreciate the space.

Nearby Paid Sites (Smart Combos)

Combo Strategy

Book the Cistern with a timed entry, then hold Topkapi for the afternoon when garden shade helps with energy.

Sample Itineraries

Early Bird (08:00 start)

1. Blue Mosque exterior + respectful interior circuit
2. Basilica Cistern timed slot
3. Lunch in Sultanahmet backstreets
4. Topkapi Palace afternoon drift

Golden Hour (15:00 start)

1. Topkapi first (cooler court gardens)
2. Blue Mosque late visit post‑Asr
3. Sunset walk around Sultanahmet Square

Packing & Comfort Checklist

• Lightweight scarf (multipurpose coverage)
• Phone battery at 60%+ (maps + photos)
• Refillable bottle; tea breaks as micro‑rests
• Simple snacks (simit or nuts)

Practical Tips

• Carry a light scarf; useful for head/shoulder coverage.
• Hydrate; fountains and cafes ring the square.
• Use offline maps for quick detours (Arasta Bazaar, Caferağa Medrese).

Mini Map (Mental)

1. Square (benches + views)
2. Blue Mosque (respectful lanes)
3. Cistern (timed)
4. Tea (reset)

Image Highlights

Bottom Line

Treat the Blue Mosque as both a place of worship and world heritage — timing and modesty make the experience smoother and more meaningful.