Best Istanbul Mosques

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, The Timeless Icon of Istanbul, originally built in 537 CE as a Byzantine cathedral, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is Istanbul’s most historic and architecturally transformative landmark. Converted into a mosque by Sultan Mehmed II in 1453, it uniquely fuses Byzantine and Ottoman aesthetics. Its immense central dome, intricate Islamic calligraphy, and preserved Christian mosaics make it a masterpiece that symbolizes the city’s layered past. This mosque served as a church, a mosque, a museum, and again a mosque—reflecting the diverse chapters of Istanbul’s spiritual history. Today, it remains one of the most visited and photographed religious structures in the world.

Oldest mosque in Istanbul, massive dome, Christian and Islamic elements, UNESCO site, centrally located in the Sultanahmet district.

Address: Ayasofya Meydanı, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye

Sultan Ahmed Mosque

Sultan Ahmed Mosque, The Blue-Tiled Wonder, famed worldwide as the Blue Mosque, the Sultan Ahmed Mosque is a dazzling example of classical Ottoman architecture. Constructed between 1609 and 1617 under Sultan Ahmed I, it is distinguished by its six slender minarets and over 20,000 hand-painted Iznik tiles in shades of blue, green, and turquoise. Its spacious prayer hall, cascading domes, and symbolic placement facing Hagia Sophia create an atmosphere of both visual and spiritual harmony. The mosque continues to function as an active place of worship, while also welcoming millions of tourists annually who come to marvel at its grandeur.

Six minarets, Iznik tile decoration, Ottoman symmetry, adjacent to Hagia Sophia, vibrant interior lighting.

Address: At Meydanı Cd. No:7, Sultanahmet, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye

Süleymaniye Mosque

Suleymaniye Mosque, The Masterpiece of Mimar Sinan, Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and designed by the legendary architect Mimar Sinan, the Süleymaniye Mosque is often regarded as the most harmonious and elegant mosque in the city. Completed in 1557, this architectural marvel crowns one of Istanbul’s seven hills, offering sweeping views of the Golden Horn. Its grand dome, semi-domes, spacious courtyard, and acoustically refined prayer hall showcase Sinan’s genius in both structure and spirituality. The surrounding complex includes a hospital, school, library, and the tombs of Suleiman and his wife Hürrem Sultan.

Ottoman classical architecture, designed by Mimar Sinan, panoramic views, historical tombs, cultural complex.

Address: Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, Süleymaniye, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye

Çamlıca Mosque, Istanbul’s Modern Spiritual Marvel, perched atop Çamlıca Hill on the Asian side, the Çamlıca Mosque is the largest mosque in Istanbul, capable of hosting over 63,000 worshippers. Opened in 2019, this architectural masterpiece combines traditional Ottoman design with contemporary innovation. With its massive central dome, six elegant minarets, art gallery, library, and conference halls, it’s more than a place of worship—it's a cultural complex. The mosque was designed by two female architects, a groundbreaking move in Turkish architecture. Its panoramic views over the Bosphorus and the European side of Istanbul make it not only spiritually inspiring but also visually unforgettable.

Largest mosque in Istanbul, six minarets, modern Ottoman architecture, hilltop location, panoramic views, cultural complex.

Address: Reşitpaşa Cd. No:20, Ferah Mahallesi, Üsküdar, Istanbul, Türkiye

Ortakoy Mosque/ Mecidiye Mosque

Ortakoy Mosqu Where Baroque Meets the Bosphorus, set along the sparkling shores of the Bosphorus, the Ortaköy Mosque (Büyük Mecidiye Camii) is one of Istanbul’s most photogenic landmarks. Built in 1854 by the Balyan family during the reign of Sultan Abdülmecid, it’s a stunning example of neo-Baroque architecture with its ornate carvings, unique window arrangements, and soft pink-white façade. The mosque’s intimate interior is equally elegant, with a lavish chandelier and Islamic calligraphy. As waves lap just meters away, it creates a uniquely serene experience, particularly at sunset. Loved by both worshippers and photographers, this mosque captures Istanbul's fusion of tradition and beauty.

Neo-Baroque design, waterfront location, scenic backdrop, elegant interior, cultural icon.

Address: Mecidiye Mahallesi, Ortaköy Meydanı, Beşiktaş, Istanbul, Türkiye

New Mosque/ Valide Sultan Mosque (Yeni Camii) 

A Jewel by the Golden Horn located in Eminönü near the entrance to the Spice Bazaar, the New Mosque (Yeni Camii) is a symbol of Istanbul’s imperial charm and spiritual depth. Its construction began in 1597 under Safiye Sultan and was completed in 1665 by Turhan Hatice Sultan. With its two tall minarets, cascading domes, and richly decorated interior adorned with Iznik tiles, the mosque is a classic example of Ottoman religious architecture. Its spacious courtyard and waterfront setting make it a favorite for both worship and reflection. The mosque stands as a testament to the power and persistence of Ottoman women patrons in shaping Istanbul’s skyline.

Iznik tiles, Ottoman imperial design, location next to Spice Bazaar, significant female patronage, iconic domes.

Address: Rüstem Paşa Mahallesi, Ragıp Gümüşpala Cd. No:1, Eminönü, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiy

Hidden Gem of Iznik Splendor, lucked away above bustling shops in Eminönü, the Rüstem Pasha Mosque is often missed at street level, but once inside, it reveals one of the richest displays of Iznik tilework in Istanbul. Commissioned by Rüstem Pasha, the son-in-law of Sultan Suleiman and a powerful Grand Vizier, and designed by Mimar Sinan, the mosque was completed in the 1560s. Every surface—from mihrab to arches—is decorated with vibrant floral and geometric motifs. Though compact in size, its intimacy and visual richness make it an unforgettable stop for those seeking hidden beauty in the city.

Iznik tiles, compact and elevated location, designed by Mimar Sinan, architectural gem.

Address: Hasırcılar Cd. No:62, Tahtakale, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye

Eyüp Sultan Mosque 

The Heart of Ottoman Piety, located outside the ancient city walls near the Golden Horn, the Eyüp Sultan Mosque holds immense spiritual significance as it houses the tomb of Abu Ayyub al-Ansari, a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Originally built in 1458, it became the preferred mosque for Ottoman coronation ceremonies. Rebuilt in the 19th century, its serene interior, surrounded by centuries-old plane trees and a vast cemetery, invites quiet reflection. Especially during Ramadan, this mosque transforms into a hub of faith and tradition. For many, visiting Eyüp is not just sightseeing—it's a pilgrimage.

Sacred tomb, pilgrimage site, serene courtyard, Ottoman coronation tradition, tranquil surroundings.

Address: Merkez Mahallesi, Cami Kebir Sk. No:1, Eyüp, Istanbul, Türkiye

Fatih Mosque 

Symbol of Post-Conquest Istanbul, built between 1463 and 1470 by order of Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, the Fatih Mosque stands as a testament to Istanbul’s transformation after the Ottoman conquest. Erected on the ruins of the Church of the Holy Apostles, it was the first large imperial mosque complex of the new capital. While the original building was destroyed in an earthquake, its 18th-century reconstruction retains classical Ottoman symmetry. The surrounding complex includes a hospital, schools, library, and the tomb of Sultan Mehmed II himself, making it both a spiritual and historic centerpiece in the heart of Fatih.

Post-conquest mosque, site of Sultan Mehmed II’s tomb, historical complex, cultural heritage.

Address: Fevzipaşa Cd. No:309, Fatih, Istanbul, Türkiye

Sancaklar Mosque

A Minimalist Revolution in Sacred Design, located in Büyükçekmece, the Sancaklar Mosque stands as a groundbreaking example of contemporary Islamic architecture. Opened in 2012 and designed by renowned architect Emre Arolat, it challenges all traditional norms by being built underground. Inspired by the Hira Cave, where the Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation, the mosque offers a deeply spiritual experience through minimalism. Its raw stone and concrete materials, absence of ornamentation, and use of natural light create a meditative space that focuses the worshipper inward. The mosque also features a library and art gallery, merging modern functionality with religious purpose. Recognized globally with the World Architecture Festival Award, it represents a bold new vision for Turkey’s architectural identity.

Underground mosque, minimalist design, inspired by Hira Cave, award-winning architecture, spiritual serenity.

Address: Sancaklar Cami Yolu, Güzelce Mahallesi, Büyükçekmece, Istanbul, Türkiye