Istanbul has more than 3,000 mosques, but a handful of them are true masterpieces. These are the best mosques in Istanbul, the ones you shouldn't miss.
1. Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya)
More than a mosque, it is the most important monument in Türkiye. Built as a cathedral in 537, it was the largest church in the world for nearly a thousand years, then an Ottoman mosque for almost five centuries, a museum from 1935, and it has been a mosque again since 2020. Its dome, 55 metres above the floor, is breathtaking. Entry: since 2024 foreign visitors go in through the upper gallery with a paid ticket (€25 at the time of writing, 2026). I tell the full story in Hagia Sophia: history and architecture.
2. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque)
When it was built, its six minarets matched those of the mosque in Mecca, the only other one with as many at the time. Inside, more than 20,000 blue-toned Iznik tiles give it its nickname. Facing Hagia Sophia across the square, it completes the most iconic view in Istanbul. Entry: free. Visiting hours and etiquette are in my Blue Mosque guide.
3. Süleymaniye Mosque
The masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, the greatest Ottoman architect. Built for Süleyman the Magnificent, it crowns one of the city's seven hills and dominates the skyline of the old town. Its perfect acoustics, stained-glass windows and harmonious proportions make it a favourite among architects, and it gets fewer tourists than Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. My favourite, too. More in my guide to the Süleymaniye.
4. Ortaköy Mosque
Small but spectacular: it sits on the water's edge, right beneath the Bosphorus Bridge. Its neo-Baroque style, white minarets and waterside setting make it the most photogenic mosque in Istanbul.
5. New Mosque (Yeni Cami)
Next to the Spice Bazaar in Eminönü. Its large courtyard and cascade of domes are impressive, and its central location makes it one of the busiest mosques in the city.
6. Eyüp Sultan Mosque
The holiest place in Istanbul for Muslims: it holds the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet. The atmosphere is devout and authentic, far from the tourist trail. Afterwards, head up to the Pierre Loti café for panoramic views; more in Eyüp Sultan and Pierre Loti.
7. Rüstem Paşa Mosque
A hidden gem by Mimar Sinan, close to the Spice Bazaar. It is small, but lined with the most exquisite Iznik tiles you will see anywhere in Türkiye. Those in the know often rank it first.
8. Şehzade Mosque
Mimar Sinan's first great work, built for Süleyman's son (şehzade means prince). Elegant and symmetrical, with lovely gardens.
9. Fatih Mosque
Built by Mehmed II, "Fatih" (the Conqueror), after the conquest of Constantinople in 1453. The Fatih district around it keeps a more conservative, traditional atmosphere.
10. Çamlıca Mosque
The largest mosque in Türkiye (opened in 2019), on Çamlıca Hill, one of the highest points on the Asian side. Modern and spectacular, with 360° views over Istanbul.
Tips for visiting mosques
- Dress code: shoulders and knees covered. Women should also cover their hair; headscarves are usually lent at the entrance.
- Shoes: take them off before you go in. Bags are provided to carry them in.
- Prayer times: mosques close to visitors during each of the five daily prayers (20–30 minutes), and the times change every day with the sun. Avoid Friday midday, when the main prayer of the week is held.
- Photography: generally allowed, but without flash and discreetly.
On a private day tour of Istanbul you see the mosques with the stories and secrets that bring them to life; the Sacred Istanbul tour is built around the city's mosques, churches and synagogues. Plan your tailor-made trip and I'll fit them into your days.