There are some sights in Istanbul that one shall not forget to include in the bucket list, with Blue Mosque being at the top of them. Forming one of the most important active mosques in the country, this architectural wonder can embark you on a magnificent journey back in time.
The building itself showcases an exceptional design resembling the Islamic Ottoman Empire at its finest. Except from that, it offers a flawless spiritual uplifting due to its phenomenal atmosphere. Above all, Blue Mosque concentrates the religious, cultural and historical elements of the country by being an important monument worth visiting.
Our Blue Mosque Guided Tour gives you the opportunity to visit and admire Blue Mosque, and explore the elements that make this sight one of the most important ones in Istanbul. As Blue Mosque is an active worshiping place, the tour is available on Monday and Tuesday during the morning, and Wednesday to Sunday during the afternoon. The approximate duration of the tour is 20 minutes. Your visit at Blue Mosque is guided by a local, professional tour guide, who will let you know all the important features of the mosque.
Please note that, transfers are not included in the price. For a smooth experience, please be at the meeting point, at least 10 minutes prior the starting time of the tour, in order to meet with the guide. Meeting point is at Sultanahmet Square, a central location that is easily accessible.
This tour has no hotel transfer, our guests must make their way to the meeting location on their own. Please meet your guide at the meeting point 10 minutes before the tour start time.
The Blue Mosque Guided Tour starts at the main bus stop for the Big Bus Tour Company at Sultanahmet Square. Look out for the dark red double-decker buses. It’s about 20 metres (65 ft) in front of the Hagia Sophia Museum.
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About Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque is undoubtedly one of Istanbul’s most notable sights for many reasons. The construction started in 1609 and ended in 1616, following the request of Sultan Ahmed I. During its first years, the mosque was named after the Sultan who requested its construction. However, through the years, it was renamed as Blue Mosque due to the impeccably beautiful blue tiles that decorate the interior. Since the 17th century, Blue Mosque is a fully operational worship place, but also a museum that receives millions of visitors every year. Except from the beautiful interior and the flawless atmosphere that the mosque has, there is another highlight making it famous. In fact, the Blue Mosque is known for having 6 minarets, in contrast to other mosques that have 4. Located in a central area, packed with multiple sights, Blue Mosque provides easy access to all visitors.
Blue Mosque Guided Tour
Our Blue Mosque Guided Tour promises to offer you a holistic approach in exploring the history, as well as the importance of this iconic Turkish monument. If you wish to join this journey back in time, and unfold the beautiful details that are hidden in Blue Mosque’s history, meet our guide at the confirmed meeting point and set yourself free to feel the majestic atmosphere of the mosque. Please note that, the tour guide is fluent in English and responsible to explain all the interesting features of the sight.
Meeting point
The meeting point for the Blue Mosque Guided Tour is Sultanahmet Square, in front of Hagia Sophia Museum. As this is a central location, it allows easy access irrespective of your hotel’s location. In terms of public transportation, you can reach Sultanahmet Square with the tram. More precisely, the T1 line, direction Bağılar – Kabataş, takes you directly to Sultanahmet Square. Upon getting off, walk towards Hagia Sophia and keep an eye for the meeting point. If you wish a more comfortable and convenient transfer, you can reach the meeting point with a taxi. You are kindly instructed to be at the meeting point, at least, 10 minutes prior the tour’s schedule time.
Blue Mosque Guided Tour: Locals’ tips
Even though Blue Mosque is easily found on a central location, joining our Blue Mosque Guided Tour gives you the opportunity to learn interesting tips from the locals. One of the most important tips to remember is that there is a dress code to follow when entering a mosque. Modest clothing, covering arms and legs, is highly instructed, while women should also cover their hair. However, in case you didn’t know, you may borrow a scarf before entering Blue Mosque. Keep in mind also that, as Blue Mosque is an active worship place, it is closed for tourists on specific times of the day.
It wasn’t my first time in Turkey, but it was my first in Istanbul. I’ve been to other important mosques in other cities, but this one had something special. Entering the place gives you chills. The best part is that this place is actually a mosque, not just a museum. Met the guide and went in, and suddenly felt like I entered a sacred place. Super highlight is the décor. The tiles on the walls are so unique and beautiful. Got many cool info about the place, our guide was awesome. I must say this tour was one of the best I had in Istanbul. Easy going, simple booking process, excellent team.
