SitemapAbout usContact us

Preplanned City Guides and Travel Itineraries

Süleymaniye Mosque

On this page you find practical information, photos and videos about Süleymaniye Mosque.

Süleymaniye Mosque features in these preplanned City Guides:

3-day Istanbul City Guide5-day Istanbul City Guide

Why visit / Interesting facts:

  • Second largest mosque in Istanbul
  • Masterpiece of star architect Sinan

Time required: 60 minutes

Opening hours:

Time period Opening hours
Daily: 9am - 7pm

Admission:

Ticket type Charge
General: Free

Public transport:

  • Tram Line T1: Eminönü stop

Address: Süleymaniye Mh., Profesör Sıddık Sami Onar Caddesi 1, Istanbul

Things you need to know:

  • Süleymaniye Mosque is an imposing Ottoman imperial mosque. It is the second largest mosque in Istanbul
  • The mosque is an epic symbol of the late Ottoman Empire's military might and imperial power
  • It was built in 1550-57 for Sultan Süleyman I the Magnificent by Ottoman star architect, Mimar Sinan
  • The building complex also includes a hamam (Turkish bath), medrese (Islamic school), a hospital and a caravanserai (inn for travelers and traders)
  • The interior is simple, yet breathtaking. The huge central dome is 53 m (174 ft) high. 200 stained-glass windows decorate the mosque
  • In 'addicts' alley' cafés used to serve opium and hashish along with tea and coffee
  • Süleyman I and his wife Roxelana are entombed in the courtyard

What to do there:

  • Remove your shoes before entering. Put them in a plastic bag (available at the entrance) and carry the bag with you
  • Enjoy the magnificent interior
  • After leaving the mosque visit Süleyman I's tomb and rose gardens and explore the grounds

Tips & Insights:

  • Modest dress is required both for women and men
  • It is considered polite for a woman to cover her head when entering a mosque. We recommend bringing your own scarf

Süleymaniye Mosque features in these preplanned City Guides: