Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Sultan Ahmed Mosque
Last updated 2026-10-29
By Global Travel Guide Editorial Team
Introduction
The mosque was designed by Sedefkar Mehmed Aga, a student of Sinan, and is still an active place of worship. Visitors enter through a side door outside the five daily prayers; women may borrow a headscarf at the entrance, and everyone removes shoes. The blue tiles are best seen in the morning light. Tram T1 stops at Sultanahmet, a three-minute walk. Entry is free, but the mosque closes to tourists during prayers.
Ticket Price
Free entry; donations welcome. The mosque closes to visitors during the five daily prayers, so time your visit around them.
Opening Hours
Open daily to visitors outside the five daily prayers; roughly 9:00-18:00, with 30-minute closures at prayer times.
Transportation
Tram T1 to Sultanahmet, then a 3-minute walk to the mosque.
Best Season
Apr-May and Sep-Oct for mild weather; Jul-Aug is hot and busy.
Pro Tip: Visit outside prayer times
Local Tips You'd Only Learn After Visiting
The details official guides skip — save time, avoid crowds, and get better photos.
1
Visit outside prayer times The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship. Check the prayer schedule, dress modestly, and remove shoes before entering the prayer area.
Member-Only Tips
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Frequently Asked Questions4 questions
Outside the five daily prayers; visitor hours are roughly 9:00-18:00 with 30-minute closures at prayer times. Friday midday is busiest.
Cover shoulders and knees; women should carry a headscarf. Shoes are removed at the entrance, and plastic bags are provided.
No ticket is needed for the mosque itself. It is an active place of worship, so arrive early and expect security screening.
Tram T1 to Sultanahmet, then a 3-minute walk; it is directly opposite Hagia Sophia.