A Lovely Stop in the Heart of Istanbul - The Blue Mosque 🕌

We visited the #bluemosque 💙🕌 (Sultan Ahmet Camii) during our time in #istanbul, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. The mosque is still active, so visitors can only go inside between prayer times. There's a separate entrance for visitors, as the main one is for worshippers. We removed our shoes before entering 👟 (bags were provided to carry them), and women were required to cover their heads 👩🧕. Staff at the door were friendly and scarves were available for free. The courtyard outside is spacious and quiet, with stone arches and a small fountain in the center. This is also right opposite Hagia Sophia, so you can visit both within a few minutes! Inside the Blue Mosque, the walls and ceilings are decorated with blue İznik-like tiles and colourful stained glass windows that let in soft light 🌅. Even with how busy it was mid-afternoon when we visited, it felt really peaceful. We spent some time sitting in the courtyard, listening to the call to prayer echo through the minarets. It was simple but really beautiful, one of those moments that makes you pause and take everything in. As always, some of my tips for visiting! 🕒 Prayer times: Visitors can only enter between prayer times (five times daily). I'd suggest checking the prayer schedule before you go. 👟 Dress code: Modest clothing is required for everyone and shoes need to be removed. Scarves are available at the entrance. 🤫 Inside etiquette: Keep your voices low, avoid flash photography, and try not to walk in front of people praying. 💶 Entry: No entrance fee for both visitors/worshippers, but there are three separate entrances. The main entrance by the Hippodrome is reserved for worshippers. #travel #turkey #naturalwonders #familytravel #myitinerary #culture #history