Blue Mosque

A beautiful and elaborate place of worship, the Blue Mosque is the most important legacy of a roguish Ottoman Sultan.

One of Istanbul’s most iconic buildings, the Sultan Ahmet Mosque was built in the early 17th century as an audacious reassertion of Ottoman power. It combines Byzantine Christian elements (as in the nearby Hagia Sophia) with traditional Islamic design in a stunning and intricate construction.

The mosque is famed for its magnificent blue interior. It is lined with over 20,000 handmade Iznik ceramic tiles in over 50 different designs, increasing in flamboyance from the lower levels up to the galleries. The upper levels are set with more than 200 stained-glass windows - the coloured glass was originally gifted by the Signoria of Venice - and enhanced by chandeliers. Gilded and set with gems, the chandeliers also intriguingly feature ostrich eggs at their centre, which are believed to repel spiders and insects.

Its mihrab - a niche in the wall that indicates the direction of Mecca - is a spectacular work of carved marble, and the minbar (the raised platform from which the Imam addresses a congregation) is richly embellished with perforated gold.

The outside of the mosque is just as impressive. Its huge central dome symbolises the Prophet himself as the radiant sun of the Islamic faith. Sultan Ahmet - already under fire for using public funds for the mosque, as he had no spoils of victory at his disposal - was accused of overstepping the mark by adding six minarets, the same number that adorn the Al-Haram mosque in Mecca; he solved the issue by adding a seventh minaret to Mecca’s mosque. 

Adjoining the mosque is a vast courtyard, about the same size as the prayer hall itself. It is surrounded by vaulted arcades featuring ablution facilities, and over its western entrance hangs a heavy iron chain - this was to ensure that the Sultan had to bow his head as he entered in a display of humility.

Nearby Attractions

See all attractions in Istanbul
Hagia Sophia
The pinnacle of Byzantine architecture, the Hagia Sophia is one of Istanbul’s must-see attractions.
Grand Bazaar
One of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is the ultimate shopping spot.
Basilica Cistern
Hidden beneath the city is a vast and mysterious space, crowded with ancient Roman columns.
Hippodrome of Constantinople
Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, is one of Istanbul's main gathering places, surrounded by the city's most famous monuments.
Istiklal Street
Istanbul’s ‘Independence Avenue’ is a popular promenade filled with galleries, bookstores, cafés and more.
Turkish and Islamic Arts Museum
Once the palace of Ibrahim Pasha, this museum houses a unique collection of calligraphy, tiles and rugs.

Related Tours

Topkapi Palace Unveiled: Private Guided Tour in Istanbul

In a city of opulent, historical buildings, the Topkapi Palace is one of Istanbul’s finest relics of Ottoman history and architecture. Built by Sultan Mehmed II (the Conqueror) in 1459, shortly after his conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it served as the primary residence of the Ottoman sultans for nearly 400 years. The palace is a sprawling complex with four main courtyards and numerous smaller buildings, including pavilions, mosques, lush gardens and the beautiful Hagia Irene church. Navigating the immense site can be overwhelming, so having a knowledgeable local guide take you through a carefully curated selection of the most important parts ensures you make the most of your time in the palace and gain a deeper understanding of its historical and architectural significance.

On your private tour, you will:

  • Pass by the historic Hippodrome, once the center of chariot races in Byzantine times; 
  • Admire the stunning exteriors of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks;
  • Discover Istanbul’s Topkapi Palace, the main residence of the Ottoman Sultans for nearly 400 years;
  • Enjoy the personalized attention of your private licensed guide;
  • Visit the Palace and Harem with tickets included;
  • Let your local expert lead you through the hundreds of rooms of this magnificent Palace, pointing out intricate details of the opulent decor and historic artefacts within;
  • Visit the recently renovated Ottoman Imperial Harem;
  • Explore the Circumcision Room, the Library of Ahmed III, and the Apartments of the Queen Mother;
  • Hear in-depth stories about the palace's inhabitants and how they shaped the history of Istanbul;
  • End the tour outside the stunning Hagia Sofia Mansions which you can explore at your leisure. 

Once the residence of countless Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century, the Topkapi Palace has been an operating museum since the early 20th century and a must-visit for anyone travelling to Istanbul. With an elaborate structure and hundreds of rooms – each of which served a different purpose - the museum and its remarkable contents are best explored with a private guide.

Your Ottoman adventure will begin centrally located meeting point with tickets procured ahead of time to allow seamless entry into the palace. After a short scenic stroll through the streets of Sultanahmet district, also home to the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome of Constantinople, you will arrive at your destination, where your guide can give you an introduction to the palace and point out interesting features of the exterior.

Once inside, you will dive straight into the rich history and intricate details of the palace. As you wander through its sprawling halls and courtyards, your guide will bring the stories of its illustrious inhabitants to life, giving you a crash course in the lives and legacy of the Ottoman sultans. You will have the chance to visit the Imperial Harem, the living quarters of the imperial family where you can get a sense of a secluded world of intrigue and luxury where a whole host of rituals and ceremonies took place. You will marvel at the dazzling decor, from exquisite tilework to priceless artefacts, and uncover the stories of the sultan, his mother, his wives, and his children. In addition to exploring the Harem, you will delve deeper into the palace’s treasures as you pass through the Circumcision Room, the charming Library of Ahmed III, and the splendid Apartments of the Queen Mother. Each space offers unique insights into the cultural and political significance of the Ottoman court.

As the tour concludes, you will step outside to the stunning Hagia Sofia Mansions, where you’re free to continue your exploration or unwind at your leisure. Once you say goodbye to your guide, you will be left with a deep appreciation for the marvels of the Ottoman Empire, having enjoyed a mesmerizing glimpse into the grandeur of a bygone era.

The Best of Istanbul: Private Half-Day Highlights Walking Tour

Istanbul is a unique and enthralling city, a bridge between Europe and Asia where a historic crossroads of civilisations meets a bustling modern metropolis. Making your way through its myriad of incredible monuments can be overwhelming, so embarking on a comprehensive walking tour of Istanbul's highlights is a wonderful way to make the most of your time there and discover what makes the city tick in the company of a knowledgeable private guide.

On your private half-day tour, you will:

  • Discover the best of Istanbul on an exhilarating half-day walking tour of the historic heart of the city;
  • Enjoy the personalized attention of your private licensed guide;
  • Kick off your tour in the renowned Hippodrome of Constantinople and learn how it has been a cultural and political hub for hundreds of years;
  • Admire the Obelisk and Serpant Column, iconic monuments of Byzantine heritage, and uncover their fascinating stories, from ancient rituals to their enduring symbolism in Istanbul's historic heart;
  • Marvel at the elegance of the Blue Mosque, famed for its 6 minarets and beautiful blue decorative tiles;
  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia as you enjoy a guided tour of one of the most important Byzantine structures in the world;
  • Expertly navigate through the Grand Bazaar and learn about Turkish trade and local traditions;
  • See one of the ancient Hans of Istanbul
  • Get a closer look at the amazing craftsmanship as you visit a local artisan;
  • Savour the vibrant colours and scents of the Spice Market;
  • End the tour in Eminönü meydanı with a view of the distinctive Galata Tower;


In this amazing private half-day highlights tour of Istanbul, you will have the chance to be fully immersed in the history and culture of this great city. Your tour will begin in the spectacular Sultanahmet Square, also known as the Hippodrome of Constantinople, where you will get acquainted with your guide and take in what was once the bustling centre of Byzantine social and political life. Your guide will bring the history of this ancient chariot-racing arena to life as you marvel at its enduring monuments, including the Obelisk of Theodosius and the Serpent Column, which bear witness to centuries of Istanbul's heritage.

You will step inside one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul: the breathtaking Blue Mosque. An architectural masterpiece renowned for its myriad domes, six minarets and the stunning blue Iznik tiles that inspired its name. You will learn about its historical and religious significance while admiring the intricate details of its serene interior. Later, you can follow in the footsteps of emperors and sultans as you explore the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia. This iconic landmark, which has served as a cathedral, mosque, and museum, is a true marvel of Byzantine architecture and a symbol of Istanbul’s multicultural legacy. Your expert guide will talk you through the fascinating history of the building, as well as the significance of the iconography and art you will find there.

Upon leaving the Hagia Sophia, you make your way to Grand Bazaar, one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world. As you navigate its labyrinthine alleys, your guide will reveal some of the secrets of Turkish trade as your guide, introducing you to local artisans and their exquisite craftsmanship. You’ll have the chance to peek into one of the city's ancient Hans, traditional trading inns that once buzzed with the activity of merchants and travellers and indulge in a feast for the sense in the vibrant Spice Market, where the air is filled with the enticing aroma of spices and sweet Turkish delights.

 Your tour will conclude at the lively Eminönü Square, where you'll take in the stunning view of the Galata Tower, an icon of Istanbul’s skyline. By the time you say goodbye to your guide, you’ll have enjoyed an immersive experience of Istanbul's highlights, blending its monumental history with vibrant modern-day culture. 

Please note: The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia are religious places of worship, so please dress respectfully. Shoulders and legs must be covered, and head coverings are available at the mosque entrance for free. You will also be given a bag at entry in which to put your shoes.

Istanbul's Old City: Full-Day Private All Inclusive Highlights Tour
With this full-day highlights tour of Istanbul, you will gain a culturally-rich experience of both European and Asian traditions. On your full-day tour, you will:

  • Enjoy the comforts of a private vehicle throughout the tour, including hotel pick-up and drop-off;
  • Enjoy the personalized attention of your private licensed guide;
  • Hear stories of the Ottoman sultans as you wander through the Topkapı Palace (tickets included);
  • Visit the recently renovated Harem section of the Topkapi Palace (tickets included);
  • Explore the Hagia Irene, a hidden gem in the outer courtyard of Topkapı Palace;
  • Learn about Istanbul's rich and exciting history at the Hippodrome of Constantinople;
  • Marvel at the elegance of the Sultan Ahmed Mosque (Blue Mosque), famed for its 6 minarets and beautiful blue decorative tiles;
  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia as you enjoy a fully guided tour of one of the most important Byzantine structures in the world;
  • Pause for a traditional Turkish lunch (not included in the price);
  • Descend beneath the city into the otherworldly Serefiye Cistern,  the oldest building in the world with a 360° projection mapping system;
  • Expertly navigate through the Grand Bazaar and learn about Turkish trade and local traditions;
  • End the tour by the Galata Bridge with a magnificent view, or enjoy a private transfer back to your hotel or the preferred location. 

In this full-day highlights tour of the great city of Istanbul, you will have the pleasure of visiting some of the most iconic attractions of the city, accompanied by your knowledgeable expert city guide. Starting with the Hippodrome of Constantinople, once used as an ancient Roman running and chariot racing track, and the epicenter of Byzantine life. 

You will then head to the absolutely stunning Blue Mosque, one of the most beautiful buildings in Istanbul, which was the 17th-century triumph of Sultan Ahmet I. Look for the mosque's unique undulating exterior, featuring myriad domes and six slender minarets. Gorgeous blue Iznik tiles adorn the interior, giving the building its unique name. 

Venturing forth to the Hagia Sophia, commissioned by the Byzantine emperor Justinian, consecrated as a church in 537, converted to a mosque by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1453, and finally promoted as a museum by Atatürk in 1935- you will find the exquisite artistry of Byzantine architecture and rich history of the region than this great temple.

You will be pleased to pause for a delicious traditional Turkish lunch (not included in the price), after which you will be immersed in the fascinating history of Topkapi Palace. Extremely opulent, it was once the residence of countless Ottoman sultans from the 15th to the 19th century. Look for the palace's fabulous pavilions, unbelievable Treasury, and formal rooms, and don't miss the magnificent Harem rooms!

You will then venture underground to the awe-inspiring Serefiye Cistern, where you will learn about its impressive construction.  It is the oldest building in the world with a 360° projection mapping system. Finishing off this once-in-a-lifetime tour, you will visit the colorful Grand Bazaar, which was built by Mehmet the Conqueror in 1461. Explore the narrow lanes to watch craftsmen and artists at work, whilst stopping for an obligatory cup of traditional Turkish tea. End the tour by the Galata Bridge with a magnificent view or enjoy a private transfer back to your hotel or the preferred location. 
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