The 9 most beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul

Are you going to Istanbul? Don't miss visiting these mosques... Emblematic places, reflecting the history and culture of the country!

The most beautiful of all, the mosques in Istanbul are among the must-sees during a stay in Turkey. Indeed, the former capital of the country has no less than 3,000!

You will find it at every corner of the street, or almost. Hard to push the doors of all! To not miss anything during your trip to Turkey, follow our guide to the most beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul!

1. The Blue Mosque

If you had to visit only one mosque in Istanbul, it would certainly be that! Located in the historical heart, the Blue Mosque is the best known – and most visited – of the city.

To avoid crowds, we advise you to schedule your visit early morning . With 6 minarets, the Blue Mosque is recognized by far thanks to its domes decorated with oriental motifs. Its central dome reaches 23 meters in diameter for 43 meters high . A pure architectural wonder!

The main entrance is accessible by beautiful gardens. The decor is already planted... Inside, you can admire the imposing chandeliers hanging from long threads, under which the faithful kneeled, praying on a large red carpet.

By entering this building, you will immediately understand where its name comes from. More than 20,000 tiles a bright blue embellishes its dome and its upper part!

2. Sainte-Sophie

Faced with the Blue Mosque, do not miss crossing the threshold of Sainte-Sophie, another most beautiful mosque to visit in Istanbul. Overlooking the city, it offers an exceptional panorama.

Before becoming a mosque, Sainte-Sophie was a Christian Basilica. Symbol of Istanbul, Ayasofya, as the Turks nicknamed, was built in the 530s.

This masterpiece of Byzantine art fell into the hands of the Ottoman Empire in 1453. Turned into a mosque, it has 4 minarets, surrounding its majestic central dome. It is to this change of religion that it owes its exceptional architecture!

Its pink complexion contrasts with the white and grey stones of the Blue Mosque located just in front. The interior is equally impressive with its huge main hall supported by marble columns.

Admire its superb mosaics, spread between the first and the second floor. Today, Sainte-Sophie is no longer a mosque itself, but a museum. That is why the entry is paid .

By choosing a guided tour, you will learn more about the incredible history and secrets of this place of worship.

3. The Mosque of Soliman the Magnificent

Perched on a high hill, majestic Mosque dominates the city of its small blue domes and its 6 minarets. It offers a magnificent view of the Golden Horn, the Bosphorus and the Galata Bridge from its small flowered garden, located in the back.

Built in 1550 under the reign of Soliman the Magnificent, it is one of the most imposing and beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul. The interior houses a complex of buildings, from hospital to school, including a steam bath and a popular soup restaurant.

We advise you to complete your visit when the muezzins call for prayer . Be imbued with his enchanting song that resonates between the walls of the inner courtyard!

Finally, be aware that despite its high location, this mosque is easily accessible .

4. La Petite Sainte-Sophie

Although smaller, this Byzantine church converted into a mosque has the same shades of pink and cream as its great sister. It is located in the Fatih district, a few steps from the Blue Mosque, and separated from the sea by Avenue Kennedy.

Less frequented than Sainte-Sophie, she deserves her place in this list of the most beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul.

This ancient Greek Orthodox church erected in the 6th century has an orthogonal nave with a dome of 17 meters in diameter .

The interior is characteristic of mosques with arches, circles and oriental motifs. During your visit, do not miss upstairs to admire the places from a new angle.

5. The New Mosque

Nestled a few blocks from the Egyptian bazaar, in the district of Emonu, the New Mosque does not leave photographers indifferent.

Emblem, the exterior is in a pyramidal form and has two minarets. You already know her from sight, to have seen her on many photos.

The most photographed building in Istanbul, the New Mosque or Newfoundland Mosque is among the most beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul. And for cause! Its high vaults, its stained glass windows and its interior all of marble and gold give it an undeniable charm.

Although his name suggests that this is a recent construction, the work began in 1597.

6. The Fatih Mosque

Also known as the Conqueror Mosque, it has all its place among our list of the most beautiful mosques to visit in Istanbul. This is the first of the Ottoman imperial mosques.

Located at the top of a hill, it was built in honour of Mehmed II, the seventh Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, after its conquest of Constantinople.

Inside, there is the tomb of the famous sultan, in the middle of a decoration inspired by Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. The legend tells us that the latter was amputeated by the sultan to the completion of the work.

The sovereign felt that his mosque was not at the height of St. Sophia! The domes are supported by majestic marble columns, which are worth a look.

7. The mosque of Rüstem Pacha

A few steps from the Newfoundland Mosque is the Rüstem Pacha Mosque, another must-see!

Although it is smaller than other mosques, you can hardly miss it. You will see its central dome away, surrounded by 5 smaller domes.

Its facade is covered by splendid blue ceramic faiences of Iznik. These also decorate the inside of this mosque with such a special charm.

A real gem to discover urgently during your visit to the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul!

8. The Sokollu Mosque Mehmet Pasa

Built in honour of the Vizir Sokollu Mehmet Pasa, this mosque is located near the historic district of Sultanahmet.

His particularity? It was built on a steep slope. Inside, Iznik’s colourful tiles are legion! They blend harmoniously with marble details.

This mosque is full of details, colourful windows, floral motifs and calligraphy, which will seduce art lovers. Observer purposes can see fragments of the black stone of Mecca in a golden square on the walls of the mosque. Will you find them?

9. Ortaköy Mosque

Located in the neighborhood of the same name, this mosque is on the edge of the Bosphorus. You can see the bridge of the Bosphore in the background. Ideal for a souvenir photo!

With her two minarets, she is inspired by the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Sparkling, the interior is divided between marbles and gilding. What to put your eyes on visitors!

The vast majority of mosques in Istanbul are accessible to the general public, except during prayers . Before your visit, check the prayer times !

Advice to travellers who wish to visit the most beautiful mosques in Istanbul: do not forget to take a scarf to cover your shoulders and hair .