Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque Istanbul
A 16th-century Ottoman masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, featuring stunning tiles and a serene courtyard. A peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere
Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque Istanbul
Best Time
Quieter atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 16th-century Ottoman masterpiece by Mimar Sinan, featuring stunning tiles and a serene courtyard. A peaceful escape.
"A beautiful, less crowded gem showcasing classic Ottoman architecture and intricate tilework."
🎯 Use Public Transport
Opt for the metro or tram to avoid taxi scams and save money. :bullettrain_side:
🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit during off-peak hours or after prayer times for a more peaceful experience. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Ottoman Architecture
Main prayer hall
Admire the elegant dome, intricate tilework, and beautiful calligraphy that define this 16th-century masterpiece.
Tranquil Courtyard Fountain
Courtyard
Relax by the marble fountain, a peaceful spot for reflection amidst the mosque's grandeur.

Proximity to Galataport
Near Galataport
Conveniently located near the bustling Galataport, making it easy to combine with shopping and dining.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Embrace Public Transport
Beat the Crowds: Visit Off-Peak
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Use Public Transport
Opt for the metro or tram to avoid taxi scams and save money.
:bullettrain_side:🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit during off-peak hours or after prayer times for a more peaceful experience.
:pray:🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with a stroll around Galataport for shopping and dining.
:shopping_bags:📸 Capture the Beauty
The mosque's architecture and tilework are incredibly photogenic.
:camera:Looking for a beautiful free mosque in central Istanbul without long queues
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Use Public Transport
Opt for the metro or tram to avoid taxi scams and save money.
:bullettrain_side:🤫 Seek Serenity
Visit during off-peak hours or after prayer times for a more peaceful experience.
:pray:🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with a stroll around Galataport for shopping and dining.
:shopping_bags:📸 Capture the Beauty
The mosque's architecture and tilework are incredibly photogenic.
:camera:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque for its stunning Ottoman architecture, intricate tilework, and peaceful atmosphere, often highlighting it as a less crowded alternative to more famous mosques. Some note its convenient location near Galataport, making it easy to combine with other activities. Occasional mentions of difficulty finding it initially or navigating public transport are noted.
"From the outside this mosque looking old like a museum, but that's where the most interesting part is. Apparently this mosque has significant history in Istanbul (just like many other mosques) aged more than 500 years old!
Located just a stroll away from Galataport, once I entered the ambiance became classic majestic vibe.
At night time, the Mosque is elegantly lit with dramatic lighting offering a soothing view from the street.
There is also a legendary Turkish hammam place next door."
Singgih Widjaja
"The KAPTAN-I DERYA KILIÇ ALI PASA CAMIÏ Mosque there’s an absolutely beautiful mosque dating from the 1500s. It is located in the old city of Istanbul a short walking distance from the Galat tower. The mosque is actively being used by worshippers who offer their prayers multiple times per day. There is intricate artwork on the ceilings and the walls and a beautiful marble waterfront in the courtyard."
Bobby singh
"Mimar sinan design nice art a lot of prayers and tourist"
Madeha Wahab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most efficient way is to use the M11 metro line from Istanbul Airport towards the city center. From there, you can transfer to other public transport options like trams or buses to reach the mosque.
It's recommended to use a public transport card like Istanbulkart for easy travel.Yes, the mosque is well-connected by Istanbul's public transport network. You can reach it via tram or bus routes that serve the Karaköy or Tophane areas, which are close to the mosque.
Travelers often warn about taxi scams in Istanbul. It's best to use reputable ride-sharing apps or ensure the taxi meter is running. Public transport is a safer and more affordable alternative.
From Sultanahmet, you can take the T1 tram line towards Kabataş and alight at the Tophane stop. The mosque is a short walk from there.
Parking in this central Istanbul area can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to reach the mosque.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque is a functioning mosque and entry is free for visitors. Donations are welcome.
As a place of worship, the mosque is open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's advisable to check current prayer times to ensure you can visit respectfully.
There is no entrance fee to visit Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque. It is a free-access religious site.
Yes, you can visit during Ramadan, but be mindful of prayer times and local customs. The atmosphere might be different during this holy month.
Yes, modest dress is required. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear long trousers. Scarves are usually available to borrow at the entrance if needed.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the mosque, but it's important to be respectful and avoid taking photos during prayer times. Be mindful of other visitors.
The main prayer hall with its impressive dome and intricate tilework offers stunning photographic opportunities. The courtyard with the fountain is also very picturesque.
Drone usage is generally restricted in most urban areas of Istanbul, especially around historical and religious sites, for security and privacy reasons. It's best to avoid bringing drones.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful natural light for photography, creating a softer ambiance. Weekday mornings are also less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Yes, the exterior of the mosque is also architecturally significant and can be photographed from various angles. The surrounding area offers good vantage points.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Built in the 16th century by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan for the Kapudan Pasha Kılıç Ali Paşa, it's a significant example of classical Ottoman architecture.
While not as famous as the Hagia Sophia or Blue Mosque, it's a beautiful and less crowded option, often recommended for those seeking a more authentic experience.
As a mosque, the primary amenities are prayer facilities. There are also ablution areas. The courtyard provides a space for quiet contemplation.
A visit can range from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in admiring the architecture and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
The main prayer hall is accessible, but navigating the courtyard and any steps might require assistance. It's advisable to inquire about specific accessibility features if needed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel by Mimar Sinan
The interior is adorned with exquisite Iznik tiles in vibrant blues, greens, and reds, featuring intricate floral patterns and calligraphy. The delicate calligraphy adorning the walls and dome adds a spiritual dimension to the visual splendor. Unlike some of the more crowded mosques, Kılıç Ali Paşa offers a more intimate setting to appreciate these artistic and architectural details, allowing visitors to truly soak in the historical and aesthetic significance.
Beyond its architectural beauty, the mosque complex also includes a hammam (Turkish bath) and a madrasa (school), though these may not always be open to the public. The overall design emphasizes balance, proportion, and a profound connection between the earthly and the divine, making it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport
The M11 metro line is a relatively new and efficient option for those arriving from Istanbul Airport, connecting directly to the city's network. For reaching Kılıç Ali Paşa Mosque, the T1 tram line is particularly useful. Alighting at the Tophane stop places you within a short walking distance of the mosque. This tram line connects many key historical and tourist areas, making it a versatile tool for exploring the city.
When planning your journey, it's always a good idea to use a navigation app that integrates public transport options. This will help you find the quickest routes, transfer points, and estimated travel times, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience as you discover Istanbul's treasures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit