How to Visit Mosques in Istanbul and Turkey?

“Jews, Turks, and Christians several Tenets hold. Yet, all one GOD acknowledge, that is, GOLD” Letters Historical and Critical from a Gentleman in Constantinople to his friend in London, 1730.

Istanbul is home to over 3000 mosques, a city of diversified culture with the great history of the Ottoman Empires, Romans, and the ancient Greeks.

The city lies on two continents: Europe and Asia. Its also known as the city of mosques and Ottoman architecture, as the capital of the Ottoman empire since 1453 and the largest city in Turkey.

How should I wear when entering the Blue Mosque?

Sultanahmet Mosque (Blue Mosque) and Suleymaniye Mosque are the most famous and have become the attraction point for tourists.

The rules for the female visitors before entering the mosques are that the head and body should be covered in the mosque, but pants aren’t allowed, and although people may think that leggings or jeans cover the body, and even without showing anything, it draws the legs a bit, so it is not considered a suitable outfit for a mosque, however, is available scarfs for the heads and skirt for the body at the entrance of mosques, and it’s free of cost as well as entrance.

For male visitors, pants are allowed, but men should avoid shorts and tank tops, but is also provided for man in case he is not in the dress code.

Should I take off my shoes before entering the Mosques in Istanbul?

Yes, absolutely. A strict barefoot (or socks) policy applies inside all active mosques. The beautifully decorated carpets covering the floor are where Muslims kneel and touch their foreheads during prayer, so keeping them clean is of utmost importance.

Before stepping onto the carpeted area, you will find wooden cubbies or shoe racks. Plastic bags are usually provided at the entrance so you can place your shoes inside and carry them with you during your visit. We highly recommend bringing a clean pair of socks in your daypack if you prefer not to walk barefoot.

How to behave inside the mosque?

Once you’re inside, don’t forget that it’s a holy place, and it is okay if you don’t believe in it, or if it’s not your religion, still a sacred place for Muslims and deserves respect.

Follow these simple guidelines:

• Keep your voice down: Speak softly and avoid shouting or laughing loudly.
• Photography rules: You can take photos, but absolutely no flash. Never photograph people while they are actively praying or performing wudu (the ritual washing before prayer).
• Movement: Never walk directly in front of someone who is praying. Always walk behind them.
• General conduct: Put your mobile phone on silent. Do not eat or drink inside the mosque, and avoid public displays of affection (like kissing or hugging).

How long should I reserve to visit for Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque tour?

Hagia Sofia is one of the mosques most visited has a great history and architecture with so many details to be appreciated ideally you should reserve at least one hour.

Just across the square is the Blue Mosque. Now that its extensive, multi-year restoration is fully complete, visitors can once again marvel at the thousands of Iznik tiles illuminating its interior.

Because both of these sites are very popular so expect at least 45 more minutes to an hour inside the mosque and more time in the security and dress-code lines.

Is There an Entrance Fee for Mosques in Istanbul?

For the vast majority of mosques (including the Blue Mosque and Suleymaniye): No! Entrance to active places of worship is completely free.

The Hagia Sophia Exception: As of 2024, the Turkish Ministry of Culture implemented a new visitor management policy for Hagia Sophia. Foreign tourists are now required to pay an entrance fee (approximately €25) to access the upper visitor gallery of Hagia Sophia, which showcases the famous Byzantine mosaics. The ground floor remains reserved to worship for Turkish citizens.

Beware of Scams: If line is long, unofficial “guides” may offer “buying tickets” for free mosques like  Blue Mosque. This is a scam. There is no fast-track entry for Blue Mosque. To avoid these traps, always explore with a well-recommended, licensed local tour agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I visit the mosques on Fridays?
Friday is the holy day in Islam. While you can visit, most mosques close their doors to tourists for an hour or two during the midday congregational prayer (Jumu'ah). It is best to schedule your visits for the late afternoon.

Do children need to follow the dress code?
Young children are generally exempt from the strict dress codes, but teenagers are expected to dress modestly, just like adults.

Can non-Muslims visit all mosques?
Yes, non-Muslims are welcome to visit almost all historic mosques in Istanbul outside of active prayer times.