Blue Mosque Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit

Timings

Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS
Monday	09:00–18:00
Tuesday	09:00–18:00
Wednesday (Today)	09:00–18:00
Thursday	09:00–18:00
Friday	09:00–18:00
Saturday	09:00–18:00
Sunday	09:00–18:00

Daily: 9 AM to 5 PM
Closed: During the 5 prayer hours in the day, the mosque is closed for about 90 minutes to non-worshippers and visitors; it is also closed till noon on Friday (which is a sacred day for Muslims) for visitors. Check the prayer times online before you visit.

Best time to visit the Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Weekday vs Weekend

Landmarks and attractions in Istanbul typically tend to draw larger numbers of visitors on weekends compared to weekdays.
It is better to visit the Blue Mosque early on weekday mornings, between 9am and 11.30am, when there are comparatively fewer crowds, so you can appreciate its serene ambience and architectural beauty without disruptions.
Early mornings also provide better lighting conditions and fewer obstructions, allowing you to capture stunning photographs of the Blue Mosque's interiors.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Peak season vs low season

The peak tourist season in Istanbul usually lasts from June to August. While these months experience clear weather and sunny skies, the city is also quite crowded with tourists.
The off-peak season months of April, May, September, and October are the best time to visit Istanbul and the Blue Mosque. The humidity is lower and the weather is cooler, making it ideal to get around the city on foot, explore its gorgeous landmarks, and cruise along the Bosphorus River.
The months from November to March are the low season. This is a good time to explore the city as well since tourist numbers are low, offering you a more tranquil experience.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should I spend at the 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.

Frequently asked questions about Blue Mosque's 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.