Blue Mosque Accessibility Guide

Overview

The Sultan Ahmed Mosque, known worldwide as the Blue Mosque for its 20,000 blue Iznik tiles, is one of Istanbul's most iconic landmarks. Built between 1609 and 1616, it is the only mosque in Istanbul with six minarets. The mosque completed a major six-year restoration in April 2023, the most thorough in its 400-year history. The restoration included seismic reinforcement, tile cleaning, and improved LED lighting. The interior is now fully open to visitors without the scaffolding that was present for years. A wheelchair-accessible ramp is located on the northwest side near the Hippodrome.

Getting There

• Tram: Sultanahmet stop (T1 Bagcilar-Kabatas line) is a 3-minute roll. The tram stop has level boarding from the platform.
• Bus: Several city bus routes stop along Divanyolu Caddesi, within a 5-minute roll of the mosque.
• From the Asian side: Take the Marmaray train to Sirkeci, then walk or take T1 tram one stop to Sultanahmet.

Wheelchair Accessibility

• A wheelchair-accessible ramp is located on the northwest side of the building near the Hippodrome and the ancient obelisks.
• The interior prayer hall is flat and spacious. After the 2023 restoration, the full interior is open without barriers.
• Wheelchair users must transfer to a clean mosque wheelchair provided by staff. Your personal wheelchair stays at the entrance. This policy exists because Muslims kneel and prostrate on the carpets during prayer, so nothing from outside shoes or wheels can touch the carpet.
• Shoes must be removed at the entrance. Plastic bags are provided to carry them.
• A dress code applies: shoulders and knees covered, women must cover their hair. Free coverings are available at the entrance.

Accessible Toilets

Public toilets are located in the courtyard area below the mosque, accessed from the Hippodrome side. These are basic public facilities. Wheelchair-accessible stalls are limited. For a better option, the accessible toilets at the nearby Arasta Bazaar area may be available.

Tips for Visitors with Disabilities

• Arrive right when tourist visiting hours begin (typically 8:30am) for the fewest crowds.
• Visiting hours change based on prayer times, which shift daily. Check the mosque website or ask your hotel for current prayer times.
• The Hippodrome square in front of the mosque is flat and paved, making the approach from the tram stop straightforward.
• Photography is allowed inside, but be respectful of worshippers.
• The visit typically takes 20 to 30 minutes.
• Combine with Hagia Sophia (directly across the square) and the Basilica Cistern (a 3-minute roll north).