Blue Mosque

Officially known as the Sultan Ahmed Mosque, the “Blue Mosque” was built in the early 1600s, and has been an active site of worship ever since. Nowadays however it is also a popular tourist attraction and a familiar part of the Istanbul skyline.
Regardless of your religious beliefs, the grandeur of the Blue Mosque is spellbinding. The exterior architecture of the mosque is impressive, but it is not blue. Sultan Ahmed Mosque’s nickname comes from the interior walls covered with intricate and beautiful tile decorations, all naturally lit by sunlight filtering through the colourful stained glass windows. The artwork on the domed ceilings of the Blue Mosque is captivating -- especially when you consider that all of this was done over 400 years ago!

As with all mosques that have become popular tourists attractions to people of other religions, the Blue Mosque closes to the public briefly during the five daily prayers, so plan your visit accordingly and dress appropriately. The mosque is completely free to enter, so do not be fooled by any touts trying to tell you otherwise. However all non-Muslims must enter from the western side.
Expert Advice: Check the official prayer schedule and visit in the morning halfway between the dawn and midday prayers. Cooler temperatures and lesser crowds are a plus; unfortunately this is also the worst time of day for photographers hoping to catch that perfect shot of the mosque.