Tour of Istanbul’s Mosques

Tour of Istanbul’s Mosques: A Journey Through History and Spirituality

Discover the magic of Istanbul with our Tour of Istanbul’s Mosques, a fascinating journey that combines history, art, and spirituality. Admire the grandeur of the Blue Mosque, the majestic beauty of Hagia Sophia, and other architectural gems that tell centuries of tradition and culture. Let the stories of our expert guides transport you to the splendor of the Ottoman Empire. This tour is perfect for history lovers and those looking for a unique experience in this enchanting city. Book now and make your visit to Istanbul unforgettable!

Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Süleymaniye Mosque: A Journey Through Istanbul’s Mosques

Istanbul is a city where East meets West, and few places better reflect this cultural fusion than its mosques. On this tour of Istanbul’s mosques, you will discover three of its most iconic monuments: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Süleymaniye Mosque. These architectural masterpieces tell stories of empires, religions, and art that have shaped the soul of this unique city.

Itinerary for the Tour of Istanbul’s Mosques

We will meet at the historic German Fountain in Sultanahmet, the ideal starting point for exploring Istanbul’s architectural wonders. Here’s what you’ll see during the tour:

First Stop: Hagia Sophia

The History and Significance of Hagia Sophia

Built in 537 AD by the Byzantine emperor Justinian I, Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya in Turkish) was originally an Orthodox Christian cathedral. For centuries, this building was the largest church in the world and a symbol of the power of the Byzantine Empire. After the conquest of Constantinople in 1453, it was converted into a mosque by the Ottomans and, most recently, in 2020, it became an active Islamic temple once again. Inside, you can admire the incredible golden Byzantine mosaics depicting Christ and the Virgin Mary, as well as Islamic elements added during the Ottoman era, such as the mihrab and minarets. A true example of cultural fusion!

What You’ll See During the Visit

• The main dome, a masterpiece of Byzantine engineering.
• The golden mosaics and Islamic inscriptions.
• The exterior, with its minarets added during the Ottoman era.

Second Stop: The Blue Mosque

A Masterpiece of the Ottoman Empire

The Blue Mosque, also known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, was built between 1609 and 1616 during the reign of Sultan Ahmed I. Its fame comes from the more than 20,000 blue ceramic tiles that decorate its interior, created in the city of İznik. This design gives it the nickname “Blue Mosque” and makes it one of the most beautiful mosques in the world.

Highlights of the Blue Mosque

• Its six minarets, a rare feature in mosques.
• The İznik tiles, decorated with floral and geometric motifs.
• The largest courtyard among Ottoman mosques.
• The harmonious central dome, surrounded by smaller domes.

This temple is a symbol of Ottoman grandeur and one of the must-visit stops in Istanbul.

Third Stop: The Süleymaniye Mosque

A Monument to the Power of Suleiman the Magnificent

The Süleymaniye Mosque (Süleymaniye Camii in Turkish) is the largest mosque in Istanbul and was built between 1550 and 1557 under the direction of renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan. This building is a testament to the power and grandeur of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, one of the most important rulers of the Ottoman Empire. Located on a hill overlooking the Golden Horn, this mosque is not only a place of worship but also a complex that includes a hospital, a school, Turkish baths, and a cemetery where Suleiman and his wife Roxelana are buried.

Highlights of the Süleymaniye Mosque

• Its balanced design and central dome, which dominates Istanbul’s skyline.
• The tranquility of its interior, illuminated by stained glass windows.
• The ingenious ventilation system created by Mimar Sinan.
• The panoramic views from its exterior courtyard.

Practical Details of the Tour

This tour lasts approximately 4 hours and begins at the German Fountain in Sultanahmet. If you prefer, you can book the option without the entrance to Hagia Sophia and arrange your visit independently.

Why This Tour is Unmissable

This tour of Istanbul’s mosques is a unique opportunity to explore the history, architecture, and spirituality of this fascinating city. From the Byzantine mosaics of Hagia Sophia to the İznik tiles of the Blue Mosque and the grandeur of the Süleymaniye Mosque, this tour will take you through the most important chapters of Istanbul. Don’t miss it!

Details of the Tour of Istanbul’s Mosques

Before embarking on this fascinating journey through Istanbul’s mosques, here is all the practical information you need to know: duration, language, what is included and not included, and how to book your spot. Everything is designed to ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

Duration

This tour lasts approximately 4 hours, during which you will explore three of Istanbul’s most iconic monuments: Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Süleymaniye Mosque.

Language

The activity is conducted with a professional guide who speaks Spanish, allowing you to fully understand the history and cultural significance of these unique locations.

What’s Included?

This tour is designed to ensure you enjoy the experience to the fullest. Here’s what’s included:

• Professional guide in Spanish.
• Access to the Blue Mosque and the Süleymaniye Mosque.
• A local beverage at a historic madrasa.
• A bottle of water.

What’s Not Included?

Although the experience includes a variety of services, there are some additional costs to consider:

• Entrance to Hagia Sophia with an audio guide in Spanish: €25 per person.

When to Book?

You can book this tour up to the start time, provided there is availability. However, we recommend that you book as soon as possible to secure your spot, as this activity is in high demand.

Type of Ticket

This tour is fully digital. You will receive an electronic ticket that you can conveniently carry on your mobile phone. No need to print anything.

Sustainability

This tour complies with our Sustainability Code, meaning all services have been designed to minimize their environmental impact and promote responsible tourism.

Operator

This tour is organized by Viaurbis Turkey, a tour operator with extensive experience in cultural and tourist activities in Istanbul. You can trust the quality and professionalism of their team.

Pets

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this activity due to the regulations of the historical monuments being visited.