The Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul city is one of its most prominent structures constructed by the great architect Mimar Sinan. It is considered one of his finest and biggest designs. The finely furnished interior is as remarkable as the central dome's magnificent beauty, which measures 47m in height. The construction of the mosque took almost eight years in the lifetime of Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent.

The stunning Suleymaniye Mosque pays homage to both the architect and the Sultan. Suleyman was the Ottoman Empire's longest-reigning Sultan, and he established peace and justice for which he is admired. In this article, learn more about the Suleymaniye Mosque walking tour and its nearby attractions.

Suleymaniye Mosque Walking Tour Overview

On a Suleymaniye Mosque walking tour, learn about Istanbul's history and culture. Marvel at the mosque's beautiful Ottoman-style architecture and various structures within it. Take in the breathtaking city views from the mosque's courtyard while discussing the royal lifestyle in the sixteenth century with a tour guide.

Suleymaniye Mosque Location: Suleymaniye Mosque, Suleymaniye, Prof. Sıddık Sami Onar Cd. No:1, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul. You can arrive at Kurucu Ali Baba Kanaat Lokantas, a tiny cafe across the street from the Suleymaniye Mosque from where the tour starts.

Suleymaniye Mosque opening hours: The walking tour of Suleymaniye Mosque lasts two hours, and the opening hours are 10 am to 2 pm.

Suleymaniye Mosque Walking Tour Highlights

• Take a 2-hour Suleymaniye Mosque walking tour and marvel at Ottoman-style architecture.
• Explore Suleyman's customs, history, and the lives of the Ottoman dynasty that date back to the sixteenth century.
• Marvel at the awe-inspiring Ottoman architecture in one of the most visited places in Istanbul
• Admire the stunning spectacle of Istanbul from the mosque's gorgeous courtyard.
• While having a cup of Turkish tea, interact with your buddies.

Suleymaniye Mosque Walking Tour Itinerary

• You will not need to pay the Suleymaniye Mosque entrance fee during your walking tour.
• Take a guided tour of the majestic Ottoman-style Suleymaniye Mosque.
• Choose your preferred time slot and come to the scheduled venue at least 15 minutes early.
• As the journey progresses, meet the local bilingual guide and learn intriguing historic Islamic stories about Ottoman culture.
• Marvel at this architectural masterpiece while enjoying panoramic views of Istanbul.
• Finish the trip with an educational session about Suleyman and the Royal Ottoman family in the 16th century while sipping Turkish tea.

Best Places near Suleymaniye Mosque

Here are the best Suleymaniye Mosque nearby attractions.

Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is a historic landmark that was initially constructed as a church but has now been converted into a mosque. It was converted into a mosque by Mehmed II of the Ottoman Empire after the fall of Constantinople.

Moreover, it is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul to see both Ottoman and Byzantium themes under one roof. Here, you can see the fascinating blend of Christianity and Islamic art. Moreover, you can also pay their respects to the 5 sultans who were put to rest within the Hagia Sophia building.

Grand Bazar

Whether you're hunting for the tastiest Turkish delicacies or some shopping, Grand Bazaar is the place to go. It is the world's largest covered market, and you can witness people negotiating for the best bargains.

The Grand Bazar has dozens of stores selling everything, including silk clothes, jewelry, and beautiful carpets. This bustling market features forty rest stops, eighteen gates, 61 covered streets, and 25,000 full-time employees. The 550-year-old market is the ideal place to conclude your visit by purchasing souvenirs for your loved ones.

Blue Mosque

Blue Mosque is a historical mosque with beautifully curved exteriors and six minarets. Its name is from the blue tiles that decorate the mosque's interior and exterior. Like Suleymaniye Mosque, Blue Mosque also dates back to the Ottoman Empire.

It is regarded as one of Istanbul's most famous tourist destinations, attracting many tourists due to its spectacular beauty. This historic landmark is a must-see for any traveler, and it allows visitors to immerse themselves in the history and traditions of the Islamic Ottoman Empire.

Topkapi Palace

This magnificent palace served as a royal residence and the administrative area for the Ottoman royals. It is one of Istanbul's most visited places near Suleymaniye Mosque. The enormous compound of this palace is filled with luxurious courtyards adorned with painted tilework and lavishly furnished rooms.

Moreover, one of the major attractions in the Topkapi Palace is the Harem, where the Sultan's wives used to spend their time. There are also Imperial Council Chambers, Sacred Safekeeping Rooms, and the Imperial treasury.

How to reach Suleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul?

• By Air: Istanbul Airport is 44 kilometers away, and you can reach the mosque by taxi in about fifty minutes.
• By Car: It is 4 kilometers from Istanbul City Center, and you can reach here in about 15 minutes by car or taxi.
• By Train: The mosque is 2 kilometers from the Istanbul train station, and it takes roughly 10 minutes to reach it by car or taxi.

Things to know before you go on the Suleymaniye Mosque Walking Tour

• At the time of arrival, all foreign nationals must provide their passport and visa information.
• Each visitor has to show their identification upon arrival.
• All women must wear a headscarf and adhere to a mosque dress code
• The tour is arranged outside of the prayer hours.
• All participants will remove the footwear and place them in a plastic bag.
• Shorts and sleeveless tops are not permitted.
• It is advised to bring a headscarf.

Conclusion

The Suleymaniye Mosque walking tour is an exciting trip through Istanbul's rich cultural heritage in the elegance of Ottoman architecture while exploring this masterpiece. Aside from its visual appeal, the trip offers in-depth knowledge of the city's religious and historical stories. It makes the Suleymaniye Mosque a must-see location for visitors seeking an engaging cultural experience in Istanbul.