Süleymaniye Mosque
Duration
45 min
Admission
Free
Best time
Morning
Budget
Free
About this place
The Süleymaniye Mosque is the largest and most magnificent imperial mosque in Istanbul, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent and completed by master architect Mimar Sinan in 1557. Crowning the third hill of the historic peninsula with its commanding silhouette of cascading domes and four slender minarets, the mosque complex encompasses a vast courtyard, tombs, gardens, and sweeping views over the Golden Horn.
Tips
The Süleymaniye Mosque is an active place of worship, so dress modestly, remove shoes before entering, and check prayer times to plan your visit accordingly. The interior is vast and serene, with beautiful stained glass windows and elegant Iznik tilework well worth admiring at a leisurely pace. The terrace and gardens surrounding the mosque offer some of the finest and most peaceful panoramic views over the Golden Horn and the Bosphorus. The mosque is located within easy walking distance of the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar, making it a rewarding addition to a day exploring the historic peninsula.