Can I enter the Blue Mosque for free?

The Blue Mosque offers free entry to all visitors. If you're a worshipper, you can use the main entrance on the north side facing the Hippodrome. If you're a non-worshipper, you can use the entrance on the south side of the mosque or the one opposite Hagia Sophia.

How much is a ticket to the Blue Mosque?

Important information. The Blue Mosque has no admission charge and no ticket lines, however there is a security check line, which can take up to 45 minutes.

Are mosques in Istanbul free?

The great imperial mosques of Istanbul, Bursa, and Edirne are usually open continuously every day for long hours for free (although donations for mosque upkeep are gratefully accepted).

Is it worth going into the Blue Mosque?

If you think the outside of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul is spectacular, you will love the inside of it. Standing in line to get in doesn't even feel like a chore when the architecture of this building is so fabulous. Take time to appreciate the courtyard on your way in from Sultanahmet Square.

Can I enter Hagia Sophia to pray?

Tourism is no longer allowed in the prayer area on the first floor; visitors are only allowed in the gallery on the second floor. Free prayer area entrance is available to Muslim tourists at Hagia Sophia only during prayer times.

Guide to Visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, Turkey | How to Get There, What to See, Dress Code

How much are tickets to Hagia Sophia?

Admission Fee: The first floor is free for Turks; the second floor (the gallery floor) is 25 euros for local and foreign tourists. Explore during the winter months: Plan your visit during the winter months to explore Hagia Sophia in comfort and avoid crowds and large groups of tourists.

Do you have to pay to enter Blue mosque?

The Blue Mosque does not require an entrance fee, therefore, there isn't a separate entrance for ticket holders. Where is the main entrance located? The main entrance is located on the north side, facing the Hippodrome. It is reserved for worshippers only.

Which is better to visit, Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia?

Hagia Sophia will appeal to history lovers and architecture buffs fascinated by religious convergence. Blue Mosque, on the other hand, is perfect for those seeking an authentic Islamic experience in a working mosque.

Can you skip the line at Hagia Sophia?

Admission tickets can be purchased from the ticket booth and online (Skip-the-Line) through official seller DEM MUSEUMS with below link. There are no Museum Passes available for visiting the Hagia Sophia.

How much time do you need 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 can I visit for free in Istanbul?

Is Topkapi Palace free?

The entrance fee of Topkapi Palace Museum is 2000 TL (Turkish Lira) per person including the Harem visit.

Are toilets free in Istanbul?

There are plenty of public toilets in Istanbul. These toilets are operated by the municipality of Istanbul. Most of them work for 1 Turkish Lira also you can pay with your Istanbulkart. Especially in, touristic places you can find boutique toilets for men and women.

Is Galata Tower worth it?

We went for the views of the city and it was worth it. We enjoyed the 360 views of the city for the hour, though the Euro 30 PP is quite pricey and the queue is quite long. It took us 20 minutes of queuing to go up the tower.

Is Dolmabahce Palace free?

🎫 Dolmabahçe Palace Entrance Fee (Updated 2025)

Foreign Visitors: 1,500 TL. Turkish Citizens: 200 TL. Foreign Students (with ISIC card): 150 TL.

Is Hagia Sophia free to enter?

Hagia Sophia entrance fee is 25 Euros for tourists in 2025. The ticket includes access to the upper galleries.

How much is a ticket to the Hagia Sophia?

Since January 2024, Hagia Sophia has introduced a €25 official ticket for the Upper Gallery, sold at the visitor entrance (worshippers uses a separate gate). At peak times, expect 30-90 mins total wait with ticket and security queues—easily an hour lost on hot/rainy days or when prayer schedules pause sightseeing.

Are skip the line tickets worth it in Istanbul?

If you want to make the most of your visit to Istanbul, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance online. This approach will enable you to skip the long lines and crowds at the entrance and gain instant access to your preferred attractions.

How long is the wait at the Hagia Sophia?

Visiting Info for Hagia Sophia

The entrance will be open between 09:30 and 17:30. The ticket price at the ticket windows of Hagia Sophia is 25 Euro. If you prefer to go the ticket booth the estimated waiting time is between 20 to 60 minutes.

How long is the queue for the Blue Mosque?

Most visits last 30–45 minutes, but security queues can add 30–60 minutes during peak hours. A guided tour ensures a smoother visit. See available guided tours.

What to wear to Hagia Sophia?

How to Visit. Even as a functioning mosque, Hagia Sophia welcomes visitors, but respectful attire is required. Women should wear long skirts or pants and cover their hair, while men should also wear long pants. For those who don't have appropriate clothing, skirts and scarves are available for rent.

Is Blue Mosque worth going inside?

Is it worth going inside the Blue Mosque Istanbul? Absolutely, the Blue Mosque's interior is one of the most breathtaking examples of Ottoman architecture. With its iconic domes, Iznik tilework, and spiritual ambiance, stepping inside offers a unique blend of history, art, and faith.

Are Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia the same?

Hagia Sophia represents the Christian Byzantine Empire, while the Blue Mosque embodies the Islamic Ottoman era. Visiting both offers a deep dive into Istanbul's diverse religious and architectural heritage.

Can I take a backpack into the Blue Mosque?

Carry minimal items like wallets, cameras, and phones. Do not bring large bags, backpacks, and suitcases. If you do have a large bag, you can store it in the locker at the Sirkeci station, which is a short walk away from the mosque.

Is Dolmabahce Palace worth seeing?

Is Dolmabahçe Palace worth visiting? Yes — Dolmabahçe is one of the most beautiful palaces in Türkiye. Between the chandeliers, the Bosphorus views, the rich history, and the sheer size of the place, it's well worth carving out a few hours for.