Blue Mosque Tickets | Guided Access & Old City Walk

From happy customers

Loved by 47 million+

Patrick

Switzerland

Jan 2026

5/5

‌

I was speechless from the moment I entered the cistern. It's simply incredible what was achieved back then. The visit was at the top of my bucket list, and I was not disappointed.

Walter

Spain

Jan 2026

5/5

‌

Really incredible. Second time I visit it and we'll come back again. Mandatory in any trip to Istambul. Congratulations

Denis

France

Dec 2025

4/5

‌

Gives a good overview. Allows a different view by day and by night. However, the audioguide doesn't follow the itinerary, so it's difficult to associate the explanations with the visuals.

Durame

France

Oct 2025

4/5

‌

On-time departure 90-minute cruise respected Kindness of staff who let us pass without any problem, even though I had an internet connection problem and couldn't provide the e-tickets. Possibility of getting off on the Galata side on the way back, which enabled us to visit the fish market and eat there. The only downside was that I had paid for 3 audio guides, but I didn't get any, which was a shame.

Alessandra

Brazil

Dec 2025

5/5

‌

The worst thing was that we didn't find the guide and then we couldn't find him again at the door of the first attraction. But it was worth the trip!

Andres

United States

Oct 2025

5/5

‌

This guided tour was absolutely worth it. Our guide was knowledgeable, patient, and passionate about the history of both the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. They explained everything clearly, from the architecture to the cultural and religious significance, and answered everyone’s questions without rushing.

Diane

United States

Jan 2026

5/5

This was the right tour for me! The guide was very good, knew detailed history of each place. He kept our group together and gave us tourist tips. All 3 sites were amazing.

Vijay

Jan 2026

4/5

The overall experience was good but would have preferred a smaller group.. maybe 15 max to have a more personal experience. Hal was good.

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Navigate your Blue Mosque tour guide

What to expect at the Blue Mosque
Things to know before you book your Blue Mosque tour
Which Blue Mosque tour is best for you?
Blue Mosque Istanbul highlights
Plan your visit to the Blue Mosque
Frequently asked questions about Blue Mosque tickets

What to expect at the Blue Mosque

1/4

Where call to prayer meets centuries of legacy

The Blue Mosque welcomes you not with fanfare, but with quiet awe. You’re standing inside a masterpiece built to touch the divine.

Stepping into sacred serenity

Your visit begins in the serene outer courtyard, before you step barefoot onto centuries-old carpets inside the prayer hall. The space unfolds in symmetry and light, with lofty domes, stained-glass windows, and the whisper of prayer adding to the atmosphere. A visit typically lasts 30–45 minutes.

Standout sights

Don’t miss the lofty central dome with its calligraphic inscriptions, the marble mihrab that points to Mecca, and the quiet reverence of ongoing worship. Yes, it’s still an active mosque.

Upgrades that transform your visit

It’s free to enter, but a guided tour gives you deeper insight into what most miss: from the mosque’s rivalry with Hagia Sophia to the tale behind its controversial six minarets. Expect queues, especially at peak times, so skip-the-line or early access options can be worth the upgrade.

Things to know before booking your Blue Mosque tickets

Know what you’re paying for

Entry to the Blue Mosque is free, but the charge you see on your ticket is for an add-on service, like a guide or a combo tour.

Visitor must-know

Since it’s an active place of worship, mosque access is restricted during prayer times. Visitors must clear a mandatory security check—expect up to 30 minutes in off-peak season and up to an hour during peak months (May–mid-September).

Guided tour vs independent visit

A self-guided visit is cost-free, but a guided tour offers richer context. Expert local guides explain the mosque’s Ottoman history, architectural features, and symbolic details while taking you through its main spaces. Booking online ensures availability and helps you plan around busy hours.

Combos and nearby attractions

The mosque sits in Sultanahmet Square, home to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, and Basilica Cistern. Combo tickets let you explore multiple landmarks in one go, saving time and effort.

Accessibility

Most areas are wheelchair-accessible, though some may have limited access due to historical design.

Dress code

Dress modestly—shoulders and knees covered for all; women must wear a headscarf.

Which Blue Mosque tour is best for you?

Calligraphy inside the Blue Mosque, Istanbul, Turkey, showcasing intricate Islamic art.

Guided tour

Explore the mosque with an expert guide who shares stories, history, and hidden details often missed on self-guided visits.

Priority entry and a curated 1-hour tour
Rich context on Ottoman architecture and symbolism

Recommended ticket:

Guided Tour of Blue Mosque

Interior view of Blue Mosque in Istanbul with intricate tilework and ornate chandeliers.

Combo tours

Visit Istanbul’s top landmarks in one seamless guided itinerary, saving time and money.

Skip-the-line access where applicable
In-depth storytelling across multiple UNESCO sites

Recommended tickets:

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour Tickets
Combo: Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour Tickets

Blue Mosque highlights

Grand Dome

The Blue Mosque’s dome is exquisite for its perfect Ottoman proportions, cascading semi-domes, and luminous interior accentuated by over 20,000 hand-painted İznik tiles.

Blue Mosque minarets in Istanbul, Turkey, showcasing intricate Ottoman architecture.

Interior view of The Blue Mosque in Istanbul, showcasing intricate tilework and grand arches.

Blue Mosque stained glass windows in Istanbul showcasing intricate geometric patterns.

Plan your visit to the Blue Mosque

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

Address: Binbirdirek, At Meydani Cd No:10, 34122 Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Find on Maps

Getting there

Bus: 38B, 77A, BN1
Nearest Stop: Akbiyik- Eminonu (Sahil) Yonu
Train: Marmaray (Atakoy to Pendik) and Marmaray (Halkali to Gebze)
Nearest Station: Sirkeci
Metro: M2
Nearest Station: Sirkeci
Tram: T1
Nearest Station: Cemberlitas
By Car: Istanbul Airport to Blue Mosque is 51.3 km. It takes around 47 mins.
Nearest Parking: Sultanahmet Selim Parking Property, Ispark, Square Parking

Getting to the Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque has 3 entrances:

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.

The Blue Mosque in Istanbul ensures that all their visitors in wheelchairs can comfortably access all parts of the mosque.

Wheelchair-accessible entrance: If you stand outside the main gate, directly opposite the Hagia Sophia, the wheelchair entrance will fall on your right side.
Ramps and elevators: You can glide your wheelchair on a ramp from the entrance gate and navigate around the inner courtyard. Ramps and elevators on the northwest side toward the Hippodrome and Obelisks help you navigate inside Blue Mosque.
Wheelchairs available: Upon request, you can avail the mosque's on-site wheelchairs.

Blue Mosque rules and regulations

Accessibility: The Blue Mosque has ramps and elevators on the northwest side near the Hippodrome and Obelisks to help visitors with limited mobility navigate the space. While most of the interiors can be explored on wheelchairs, there may be some limitations due to the mosque’s architectural design.
Photography: You can click pictures of its stunning interiors and beautiful ornamentations but make sure to turn off your flash. Do not use commercial equipment like tripods when taking photos because they may disrupt the peaceful atmosphere of the mosque.
Lockers: The Blue Mosque does not have any cloakrooms, however, you can drop off your belongings at the station locker in the Sirkeci station, a 2-minute walk from the mosque.

Blue Mosque entrances

Dress modestly: The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, hence it is best not to wear shorts, mini skirts, or sleeveless shirts. Wear clothes that cover your knees and shoulders.
Wear a scarf: Women need to wear a scarf when entering the Sultanahmet mosque. You can get scarves from the mosque entrance.
Respect photography policies: While you can bring your camera or mobile phone inside the Blue Mosque, make sure not to use flash or click pictures of worshippers. Do not linger around in one spot for too long or disrupt other viewers.
Check prayer timings: The mosque remains closed to tourists and non-worshippers during prayer hours. Look out for Blue Mosque’s prayer times before reaching the mosque gate. These prayers last for around 90 minutes, so in case you find the gate closed, you can drop by Hagia Sophia, situated right next to the Sultanahmet mosque.

Interesting facts about the Blue Mosque

Tips to Note When Visiting the Blue Mosque

Keep to the dress code: As the Blue Mosque is a place of worship, it is important to dress modestly. Both men and women should cover their shoulders, and avoid revealing clothing, and women should cover their heads with a scarf.
Remove your shoes: You must remove your shoes before entering the Sultan Ahmed Mosque. There are designated areas for storing your footwear. They also provide plastic bags for you to carry your shoes.
Maintain silence: Since Blue Mosque is an active place of worship, please be respectful and refrain from making loud noises, using mobile phones, or running around.
Do not use flash: Although you can click pictures on your mobile phones and cameras, please do not use flash or commercial equipment like tripods. Also, do not click pictures of worshippers praying inside the mosque.
Avoid touching the artifacts: Make sure to respect the sacred space and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking inside the mosque. Also, avoid touching or leaning on the walls, columns, or artifacts.

Plan your visit to the Blue Mosque

Frequently asked questions about Blue Mosque tickets

Can I enter the Blue Mosque whenever I want?

You can enter the Blue Mosque whenever there is no prayer in session. During these times, the mosque is closed to the public for about 90 minutes each closure. Since the prayer times are based on the position of the sun, they change slightly each day throughout the year. It's best to check the local prayer schedule online before you plan your visit to get the most accurate times.

Why is there a charge on my ticket if entry to the mosque is free?

While the mosque is technically free to enter, the charge on your ticket corresponds to an upgrade like a guided tour or a combo ticket to another Istanbul attraction.

Why should I book Blue Mosque tickets online?

Booking Blue Mosque tickets online secures your spot, avoids long security queues, and guarantees access to guided tours or combos during peak tourist seasons.

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.

Will I be denied entry if I don't follow the dress code?

If you don't follow the dress code, you will be denied entry. The dress code is strictly enforced as a sign of respect for the religious site.

Here's a summary of the dress code:

For both men and women: Shoulders and knees must be covered. This means no shorts or sleeveless shirts.
For women: You must also cover your head with a scarf.

Do I need to practice Islam in order to enter this place of worship?

No, visitors to the Blue Mosque need not be Muslim. All are welcome, provided they respect prayer times, follow the dress code, and maintain decorum inside.

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.

More reads

Get expert insights beyond the blue tiles at the mosque and explore Old Town’s timeless streets.

Everything you get: Explore the Blue Mosque, the newly renovated landmark with a licensed guide, and uncover its six-minaret controversy, symbolic design, and 200+ stained-glass windows. Enjoy an Old City walking tour past landmarks like the Hippodrome and German Fountain.
Why choose this: See more in less time with a licensed guide—skip guesswork, learn key stories, and explore Istanbul’s Old City with ease and context.
Upgrades: Add to your experience! Take a Bosphorus cruise for skyline views, a Hagia Sophia tour to see Viking graffiti, or walk through the eerie columns of Basilica Cistern.

Inclusions #

1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque
Entry to Blue Mosque
Expert English-speaking licensed guide
Walking tour around Old City
Istanbul Old Town map
1.5-hour Bosphorus cruise ticket (as per option selected)
Audio guide for cruise in English, French, German, Italian, Polish, Russian, Spanish, Turkish, Arabic & Chinese (as per option selected). The audio guide is available for you to download. Instructions will be shared with your ticket. Do bring your own headphones.
Bosphorus cruise map (as per option selected)
1.5-hour guided tour of the Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
30-min guided tour of the Basilica Cistern (as per option selected)
Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern (as per option selected)

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 recommended to visit after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.
Hagia Sophia is not accessible for wheelchair users.
Basilica Cistern is wheelchair accessible.

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

Enjoy expert storytelling, skip-the-line access, and a 5+ language audio guide for 3 of Istanbul’s most iconic sites.

Everything you get at Blue Mosque: Skip the long lines and head straight to the Blue Mosque’s grand prayer hall. Get insights into this stained-glass-lit monument, with an English-speaking guide and an audio guide.
Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Access the Upper Gallery of Hagia Sophia—an area once reserved for royalty. Avoid the wait and admire its breathtaking mosaics at your own pace, while enjoying a detailed audio guide.
Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Take an underground walk into the Basilica Cistern’s cool and quiet spaces. Skip long wait lines, and walk in to admire the marble columns and the famous Medusa heads with an expert guide.
Why choose this combo: In just 4 hours, visit three of Istanbul’s top landmarks in one day, with one easy ticket. Skip the long lines with this flexible ticket and explore each site with expert English-speaking guides and immersive audio guides.

Inclusions #

Basilica Cistern

1-hour guided tour of Basilica Cistern
Skip-the-line entry
Expert English-speaking guide
Audio app downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish, & Turkish

Hagia Sophia

2-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia
Skip-the-line entry
Expert English-speaking guide
Entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area & Upper Gallery
Audio guide downloadable in English, German, French, Italian, & Spanish

Blue Mosque

1-hour guided tour to the Blue Mosque
Skip-the-line entry (as per option selected)
Expert English-speaking guide

Exclusions #

Scarf and body cover at the Blue Mosque & Hagia Sophia

Basilica Cistern

Tip: Be sure to walk to the far end of the cistern to see the famous Medusa heads—many visitors miss them by turning back too soon.
Floors can be slick in places due to moisture, so wear stable footwear with a good grip.
For a quieter, more serene experience, visit first thing in the morning or just before closing when crowds are less.
Skip-the-line tickets help cut down wait time. However, security screenings are compulsory for all visitors and will take time.

Hagia Sophia

Due to ongoing renovations, certain sections of the interiors may be obstructed by scaffolding.
Tip: Security checks can take up to an hour in summer (June–August), so plan your visits accordingly.
Only the Upper Gallery is open to visitors; the main prayer hall is reserved for worshippers and not accessible to visitors.
Access is paused during daily prayers, so plan your visit between those times.
Tourist entry is paused every Friday from noon to around 2:30pm for weekly prayers.
Visitors are required to dress modestly – so please cover your head, shoulders, and knees. Women are also required to wear scarves. If you forget to bring your own, there are scarves available at the entrance.

Blue Mosque

Tip: The Blue Mosque is closed to non-worshippers during the five daily prayers, so make sure you check local prayer times before visiting.
Visitors are required to dress modestly – so please cover your head, shoulders, and knees. Women are also required to wear scarves. If you forget to bring your own, there are scarves available at the entrance.
Shoes must be removed before entering. Make sure you bring a small bag to carry them.

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

Discover Istanbul’s treasures, the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, in one convenient combo instead of two tickets.

Everything you get at Hagia Sophia: Enjoy skip-the-line entry and choose between a 1-1.5-hour guided tour with an English-speaking guide, a small group German guided tour, or a self-guided audio tour to explore the landmark at your own pace.
Everything you get at the Blue Mosque: Get fast-track entry and choose between a 1-1.5-hour guided tour with an English-speaking guide, a small group German guided tour, or a self-guided audio tour for insights into the mosque’s traditions and heritage.
Why choose this: Skip the hassle of separate bookings and enjoy expert storytelling and priority access to two landmarks in one booking.
Upgrades: Enhance your journey with a guided tour of Basilica Cistern or the Topkapi palace complete with skip-the-line access.

Inclusions #

Hagia Sophia
- Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia
- 1-1.5-hour guided tour of Hagia Sophia (as per option selected)
- Expert licensed English-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- German small group guided tour (as per option selected)
- Multilingual audio guide available in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Romanian, Russian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (as per option selected)
Blue Mosque
- Skip-the-line entry to Blue Mosque
- 1-1.5-hour guided tour of Blue Mosque (as per option selected)
- Expert licensed English-speaking guide (as per option selected)
- German small group guided tour (as per option selected)
- Multilingual audio guide available in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Romanian, Russian, Japanese, Korean and Chinese (as per option selected)
Entry to Basilica Cistern and Topkapi palace (as per option selected)

Exclusions #

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks
Gratuities/tips
Souvenir photos
Tour guide (for the audio guided tour)

What to bring Hagia Sophia

Carry a lightweight scarf or shawl so you can cover up appropriately before entering.

Blue Mosque

Bring a modest covering such as a wrap or headscarf, as you will need it inside the mosque.

What is not allowed Hagia Sophia

Oversized bags and bulky backpacks are not permitted past security.

Blue Mosque

Large bags are restricted at the entrance, so plan to bring only small personal items.

Accessibility Hagia Sophia

Only the ground level is accessible for wheelchair users, since the upper gallery cannot be reached with mobility aids.

Blue Mosque

The Blue Mosque is wheelchair accessible with pathways designed to accommodate mobility needs.

Additional information Hagia Sophia

Due to ongoing renovations, certain sections of the interiors may be obstructed by scaffolding.
Women and men should avoid clothing that exposes shoulders or chest, and skirts or shorts above the knees.
Scarves and cover-ups can be purchased on-site if you do not have your own.
Expect a mandatory security check. Lines can be long, especially midday, so later hours after 4 pm are often smoother.
If you plan to use the audio guide, remember to bring your own headphones.
The first-floor prayer hall is reserved exclusively for Turkish citizens.
Opening hours are 9 am to 7:30 pm. On Fridays it closes temporarily from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm.

Blue Mosque

Ensure you follow the modest dress requirements. If you forget a scarf or cover-up, you can purchase one at the entrance.
Visiting times are available until 11 am and then again after 2 pm. On Fridays, entry is only permitted after 2 pm.

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

Love a good deal? Save more while exploring the Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern.

Everything you get at Blue Mosque: Tour the Blue Mosque with a licensed guide, find the sultan’s private prayer spot, and admire rare İznik tiles up close. Later, walk through the Old City past the Mosaic Museum, ancient cisterns, and the Hippodrome.
Everything you get at Basilica Cistern: Skip the line at the Basilica Cistern and explore at your pace with a multilingual audio guide to uncover hidden Medusa heads, echoing chambers, and eerie legends.
Why choose this combo: No unnecessary detours! These landmarks are just a few minutes apart, so you can stroll from one to the other without losing time on travel and saving more money. Book both tours for the same day or go on different days, based on your preference.

Inclusions #

Blue Mosque

1-hour guided tour of the Blue Mosque
Entry to Blue Mosque
Expert English-speaking licensed guide
Walking tour around Old Town
Istanbul Old Town map

Basilica Cistern

Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
Audio guide in English, German, French, Italian, Russian, Spanish & Turkish

Blue Mosque

Due to the Friday prayer, the Mosque will be closed to tourists from 12pm to 2pm. For a smoother experience, it's recommended to visit after 4pm to avoid the lengthy security line anticipated between 2pm and 4pm.

Basilica Cistern

This experience is wheelchair accessible.

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Explore Istanbul’s iconic landmarks - Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, Topkapi Palace, in 1 day with an expert guide.

Everything You Get: A 7-hour guided walking tour in English, and visit to Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern, and Topkapi Palace with ample time to explore each site.
Why Choose This:. Thoughtfully curated to make the most of your time, this expert-guided tour lets you dive deep into Istanbul’s rich history, legends, and architectural wonders. Cover more in a day than most do in three!

Inclusions #

Expert English-speaking guide
Visit to Hagia Sophia (entry fee not included)
Visit to Basilica Cistern (entry fee not included)
Visit to Topkapi Palace (entry fee not included)
Entry to Blue Mosque
Breaks for coffee and relaxation

Exclusions #

Food or drinks
Admission fee inside Hagia Sophia
Admission fee inside Basilica Cistern
Admission fee inside Topkapi Palace & Harem

Additional information

Due to ongoing renovations at Hagia Sophia, certain sections of the interiors may be obstructed by scaffolding.
Dress modestly for mosque visits; hair and body covers are available at the entrance if needed for a small fee.
Expect security checks at each site, especially during high season. Plan your visits keeping the waiting time in mind.

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

What to bring

Wear comfortable walking shoes, as many included attractions involve uneven paths, stairs, or long distances.
Modest attire is a must for religious landmarks. Bring a scarf or shawl if you're visiting the Hagia Sophia or the Blue Mosque.