Istanbul: Blue Mosque Small Group Tour
Step inside the majestic Blue Mosque, Istanbul’s architectural jewel, on a small-group guided tour. Discover its stunning blue tiles, towering minarets, and rich history in an intimate setting that lets you connect deeply with this iconic landmark.
Overview
Explore one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks on this small-group tour of the Blue Mosque, where history, architecture, and spirituality blend seamlessly. Known officially as Sultan Ahmed Mosque, this masterpiece was built over 400 years ago and stands out with its six elegant minarets and mesmerizing blue İznik tiles that adorn its interior walls.
Your expert guide will lead you through the mosque’s grand courtyards and sacred prayer halls, sharing fascinating stories about its construction, symbolic elements, and role in Ottoman religious life. Learn about the architectural innovations that make the Blue Mosque a marvel of engineering and artistry.
Because the tour is kept to a small group, you’ll enjoy a more personal experience, with opportunities to ask questions and soak in the serene atmosphere without large crowds. This intimate setting is ideal for travelers seeking a deeper cultural connection and a meaningful visit.
The Blue Mosque is still an active place of worship, so your guide will explain mosque etiquette and ensure respect for prayer times and customs. Prepare to be awed by the interplay of light and color inside the prayer hall, where thousands of blue tiles create a peaceful, inspiring space.
This tour is perfect for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone eager to experience one of Istanbul’s most beloved monuments in a thoughtful and immersive way.
Select date, participants and language
Highlights
- ● Intimate small-group tour of the iconic Blue Mosque with expert guidance
- ● Marvel at stunning blue İznik tiles and the mosque’s six elegant minarets
- ● Learn about Ottoman architecture and rich religious traditions firsthand
- ● Enjoy a respectful visit during prayer times in a serene atmosphere
- ● Receive personalized attention and insightful commentary throughout the tour
What's Included and What's Not?
Included
- 60-minute expert-guided tour in English offering deep insights
- Small group experience with a maximum of 15 guests for intimacy
- Admission ticket to the majestic Blue Mosque included
Not Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off services are not provided
- Food and drinks are not included during the tour
- Skipping the security line is not allowed; all visitors must pass checks
Not Suitable For This Activities
- ●People with mobility impairments
- ●Wheelchair users
Not Allowed This Activities
- ●Flash photography
- ●Shorts
- ●Short skirts
- ●Sleeveless shirts
Important Information
What to Bring
Information Before Booking
- ●The Blue Mosque is an active place of worship; tours respect prayer times and religious customs
- ●Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure a smooth entry experience
- ●Modest dress is required: women must cover their hair, and men wearing shorts must cover their knees
- ●The tour lasts about 1 hour and covers both the interior and exterior of the mosque
- ●Small groups ensure a calm, respectful atmosphere with personalized attention
Know Before You Go
- ●Entry includes mandatory security checks that may take 15-30 minutes depending on the season
- ●Shoes must be removed before entering the mosque
- ●Hair and knee covers are provided at the entrance for those who need them
- ●Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time to ensure a smooth start
Highlighted reviews from other travelers
Kolleen Merlin - Germany
The tour around the Blue Mosque was fantastic, and our guide Samet shared many fascinating facts about the architecture. Definitely a must do when visiting Istanbul!
Marigold Gage - United Kingdom
Ali was a fantastic guide for our small group of eight knowledgeable, entertaining, and attentive. He explained the Blue Mosque and its forecourt clearly in excellent English. He was also very kind and happy to offer recommendations for other excursions. I highly recommend him!
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Customer Reviews
All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.
Overall Rating
4.6/5
Based on 5 Reviews
4.6/5
4.6/5
4.6/5
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04 July
The tour around the Blue Mosque was fantastic, and our guide Samet shared many fascinating facts about the architecture. Definitely a must do when visiting Istanbul!
Helpful? Yes
07 July
Ali was a fantastic guide for our small group of eight knowledgeable, entertaining, and attentive. He explained the Blue Mosque and its forecourt clearly in excellent English. He was also very kind and happy to offer recommendations for other excursions. I highly recommend him!
Helpful? Yes
11 July
The tour was great many thanks to our guide for making it such a good experience!
Helpful? Yes
13 July
The information was delivered in manageable chunks, making it easy to absorb and understand.
Helpful? Yes
15 June
It was too crowded, making it difficult to fully enjoy the experience under those conditions.
Helpful? Yes
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