Half-Day Walking Tour of the Magnificent Mosques in Istanbul

Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s religious art and architecture

It is worth visiting Turkey's mosques if you want to gain an insight into the country's culture, art, history, and faith. With over 3,000 mosques in Istanbul alone, embark on a half-day walking tour to see three mosques—Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Suleymaniye mosque.

Visit the iconic Hagia Sophia

Start your tour at Hagia Sophia, the magnificent Byzantine monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its historical links to the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Hagia Sofia is one of the best architectural treasures. This iconic landmark has served as a Catholic church, a mosque, and a museum over its nearly 1,500-year history. It was built in the 6th century AD by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I in Constantinople (now Istanbul).

Find out what the name Blue Mosque means

Walk next to the Blue Mosque, originally named the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, after Sultan Ahmed I, who built it between 1609 and 1617. The mosque has a central dome, four elephant legs (Central columns), and classical Ottoman decoration. It is nicknamed the Blue Mosque because of the blue tiles outlaid in geometric patterns and floral designs.

See the impressive Suleymaniye Mosque

The Suleymaniye Mosque is an Ottoman imperial mosque. It is on Istanbul's Third Hill and is the last stop on this small group tour. Designed by the imperial architect Mimar Sinan, it was the largest mosque in the city for over 450 years. The mosque's four minarets represent the four sultans who ascended the throne following the conquest of Constantinople.

Half-Day Walking Tour of the Magnificent Mosques in Istanbul

Discover the rich history and architectural marvels of Istanbul on this half-day guided tour, which includes visits to four iconic landmarks: the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Suleymaniye Mosque, and Topkapi Palace. The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a wide range of international visitors. With no need for physical access restrictions, you'll cover approximately 3 kilometers on foot, exploring the heart of Istanbul's historic district over the course of three hours. Key highlights include admiring the intricate blue tiles inside the Blue Mosque, marveling at the Byzantine architecture within Hagia Sophia, and experiencing the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque, which held the title as the largest mosque in the city for 450 years until recently. This tour offers an unparalleled insight into Istanbul's cultural heritage, with a focus on its most significant religious structures.

Admire the Blue Tiles at the Blue Mosque

Your tour stops at the Blue Mosque where guests can explore one of Istanbul’s most recognizable landmarks built in 1609. Covering an area of approximately 20,000 square feet and featuring six minarets, this mosque is known for its stunning blue Iznik tiles that adorn the interior walls. Visitors will spend around 30 minutes here, taking in the intricate tile work and decorative elements like calligraphy and stained glass windows. The Blue Mosque stands out among other mosques with its unique blend of Ottoman architectural styles and traditional Islamic design elements, making it a must-see for anyone interested in religious architecture. Its significance lies not only in its aesthetic appeal but also in its historical importance as one of the last great imperial mosques built during the Ottoman Empire.

Marvel at Byzantine Architecture Inside Hagia Sophia

The tour continues to Hagia Sophia, a former church and mosque that now serves as a museum. Built in 537 AD under Emperor Justinian I, this iconic landmark spans over 70,000 square feet with its impressive dome reaching heights of nearly 182 feet. Visitors will spend about an hour here, exploring the vast interior filled with stunning mosaics and intricate marble decorations. Notable features include the Hagia Sophia’s massive bronze doors from the fourth century and the famous Deesis mosaic dating back to the 13th century. This structure is unique due to its transformation over centuries, reflecting both Byzantine and Ottoman influences, making it a symbol of cultural synthesis in Istanbul.

Experience the Grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque

Your tour then heads to the Suleymaniye Mosque, where guests can appreciate one of the largest mosques in Istanbul. Constructed between 1550 and 1557 by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan for Sultan Suleiman I, this mosque complex covers around 64,000 square feet including its surrounding buildings such as madrasas and a hospital. Visitors will spend approximately 30 minutes here, marveling at the mosque’s grand dome measuring about 128 feet in diameter and admiring the intricate tile work and calligraphy on the walls. The Suleymaniye Mosque is unique for being one of the last great imperial mosques built during the Ottoman Empire's peak period, showcasing a blend of classical Ottoman architecture with innovative structural designs.

Tour Highlights

• Explore [Blue Mosque] where guests admire blue Iznik tiles
• Walk 3 kilometers through Istanbul’s historic district
• Guided in English/Spanish by expert local guides
• Marvel at Byzantine architecture inside Hagia Sophia museum
• Spend time visiting Suleymaniye Mosque, largest mosque for 450 years
• Experience cultural synthesis at Topkapi Palace and its harem tours
• Access to Blue Mosque including six minarets
• Convenient tour with no physical access restrictions

Perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and travelers seeking a deep dive into Istanbul’s rich heritage, this half-day walking tour provides an in-depth look at the city’s most significant landmarks. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Blue Mosque, marvel at Hagia Sophia, and experience the grandeur of Suleymaniye Mosque, offering unparalleled insights into Istanbul's cultural and religious history while enjoying the architectural wonders that define this historic city.