Yeni Camii Istanbul - a view of a city with a lot of tall buildings
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Yeni Camii Istanbul

4.5
·344 reviews·Thessaloniki, Greece

A unique 20th-century mosque turned exhibition space, blending Ottoman grandeur with European flair and a charming courtyard.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
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Yeni Camii Istanbul - a view of a city with a lot of tall buildings

Yeni Camii Istanbul

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique 20th-century mosque turned exhibition space, blending Ottoman grandeur with European flair and a charming courtyard.

4.5
(344 reviews)

"A very beautiful building with a very interesting story and European influences."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Entry to Yeni Camii is free! Always check current opening hours as they can change for exhibitions.

🐢 Courtyard Critters

Keep an eye out for the resident tortoises in the courtyard – a charming surprise for visitors!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Dome Interior

The Grand Dome Interior

Main Hall

Marvel at the beautifully painted dome, a testament to early 20th-century European-influenced architecture.

Courtyard Antiquities

Courtyard Antiquities

Courtyard

Explore marble artifacts, including inscriptions and tombstones, with friendly tortoises often spotted here.

Temporary Exhibitions

Temporary Exhibitions

Main Hall

Discover rotating art and historical displays that bring new life to this historic space.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Yeni Camii

Yeni Camii, or the New Mosque, is a unique historical site that now hosts exhibitions. While entry is free, check its current operating hours as they can vary, especially if it's hosting special events. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the architecture and any temporary displays without the crowds.

Navigating Istanbul's Transport

Getting to Yeni Camii is straightforward with Istanbul's public transport. Many visitors recommend getting an Istanbulkart for seamless travel on trams, buses, and ferries, avoiding potential taxi scams.TikTok+1 For airport transfers, consider the Havaist or Havabus shuttles as a cost-effective and convenient option.TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Exhibitions are usually open
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Found this hidden path to the best view of Grand Camlica Mosque - Istanbul 🇹🇷
@anton_9871
69.7K likes • 558.4K views

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Entry to Yeni Camii is free! Always check current opening hours as they can change for exhibitions. Reddit

🐢 Courtyard Critters

Keep an eye out for the resident tortoises in the courtyard – a charming surprise for visitors! Reddit

First time in Istanbul? Don’t make these 3 mistakes 🧿 ✔ Where to exchange money safely ✔ How to pay less for transport (Istanbulkart) ✔ What to do instead of overpaying for airport taxis (Havaist or Havabus shuttle) 📍🇹🇷 Get my full Istanbul Guide with daily itineraries, a secret map of 200+ local spots & must-know travel tips! Link in bi0💡 #istanbultips #turkeytravel #travelistanbul #turkey #ista...
@kat.triplanner
56.6K likes • 1M views
Yeni Camii, Eminönü 🕌 #eminönü #yenicamii #mini4pro #goturkiye #dji #djiglobal #istanbul
ykaanyildirim
18.6K likes • 213.7K views

💳 Istanbulkart is Key

Get an Istanbulkart for easy public transport use, saving you hassle and money. TikTok+1

🏛️ Explore Upper Floors

Don't miss the chance to visit the upper floor for a closer look at the dome and exhibits. Reddit

Let me know what other questions you have! My Istanbul travel guide is 🔗 on my site. #istanbultravelguide #whattoknowbeforevisitingistanbul #visitistanbul #istanbultraveltip
@travelbyram
47.7K likes • 1M views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry & Hours

Entry to Yeni Camii is free! Always check current opening hours as they can change for exhibitions. Reddit

🐢 Courtyard Critters

Keep an eye out for the resident tortoises in the courtyard – a charming surprise for visitors! Reddit

💳 Istanbulkart is Key

Get an Istanbulkart for easy public transport use, saving you hassle and money. TikTok+1

🏛️ Explore Upper Floors

Don't miss the chance to visit the upper floor for a closer look at the dome and exhibits. Reddit

📸 Photography Tips

Capture the intricate details of the dome and the unique blend of architectural styles. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(344 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Yeni Camii for its stunning architecture, particularly the beautifully painted dome and unique European influences. The free entry and engaging temporary exhibitions are highlights, as is the charming courtyard with its historical artifacts and resident tortoises. Some visitors express sadness that it's no longer primarily a place of worship, but appreciate its current cultural role.

"Really stunning mosque... Should not be missed. Entry is free too. You can also visit the upper floor. The courtyard has an interesting accumulation of marble artefacts including an inscription in ottoman language and next to it one in Hebrew. There are also many friendly tortoises in the courtyard. This was one of my favourite monuments in the city."

Orfeas Kallintzis

"A very beautiful mosque with a modern architecture of the time. It was called "Yeni Camii" New Mosque. Built in 1903 it has shapes of modern art but the minaret is missing now so you can not have the true feeling of a mosque. It is turned to a museum so I could not have the opportunity to pray there, I would really love to."

Muhidin Xhezairi

"A very beaudiful building with a very intresting story. It was build as an mosque for the Dönmeh community (Jews who had turned to Muslims).

The building is special having a style of europian influences and some jew decorations. The dome is still nicely painted.

After that for sometime it hosted the archaeological museum. Now it hosts temporary exhibitions ("sacred places" when visited 1/2018).

On it's courtyard there are many (mostly roman) marble antiquities looking abandoned (among them a Jew tombstone put to second use us a christian cross)

The first floor is visitable. Don't miss a great closer view to the dome"

Alkis p

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Free entry & exhibitions
Courtyard tortoises & artifacts

What People Dislike

No longer for prayer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Yeni Camii is easily accessible via public transport. The tram line T1 stops at Eminönü, which is a short walk away. Many visitors recommend using an Istanbulkart for seamless travel on trams, buses, and ferries, which can help avoid potential taxi scams.TikTok+1 If arriving from the airport, consider the Havaist or Havabus shuttles for a cost-effective transfer to the city center.TikTok

Yes, Yeni Camii is located in the bustling Eminönü district, putting it within walking distance of the Spice Bazaar and the Galata Bridge. It's a central point for exploring the historic heart of Istanbul.

From Istanbul Airport (IST), the Havaist or Havabus shuttles are highly recommended for their affordability and convenience, taking you to various points in the city from where you can connect to public transport.TikTok Taxis are also available but can be more expensive.

While ride-sharing apps like Uber operate in Istanbul, some users report needing to go to specific pick-up points, such as domestic departures at the airport, which can be inconvenient.TikTok Public transport is often a more straightforward option.

Yes, Yeni Camii is located near the Eminönü ferry terminals, which are hubs for intercontinental travel. If you're coming from the Asian side, a ferry ride to Eminönü is a scenic and efficient way to reach the mosque.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Yeni Camii is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. This is a significant plus for budget travelers exploring Istanbul.Reddit

The opening hours for Yeni Camii can vary as it hosts temporary exhibitions. It's advisable to check the most current schedule online or upon arrival, as it may differ from traditional mosque hours. Some visitors have reported it being closed unexpectedly.Reddit

Yeni Camii was originally built as a mosque but now primarily functions as a venue for exhibitions. While it retains its historical religious significance, it may not be available for regular prayer services, which some visitors find disappointing.Reddit

For most temporary exhibitions held at Yeni Camii, booking in advance is usually not required, and entry is often free. However, for very popular or special events, it's always a good idea to check the official website or inquire locally.

As Yeni Camii is a historical religious building, it's respectful to dress modestly. This generally means covering your shoulders and knees. While not as strict as active mosques, it's good practice to maintain a modest appearance.

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally permitted inside Yeni Camii, allowing you to capture the stunning architecture and any ongoing exhibitions.Instagram However, it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash photography during exhibitions if it might be disruptive.

The grand dome interior with its intricate paintings is a prime photography subject. The courtyard, with its collection of marble antiquities and unique inscriptions, also offers excellent photo opportunities. Look for interesting angles that highlight the European influences in its design.Reddit

Drone photography is typically restricted in densely populated urban areas and around historical sites in Istanbul due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to avoid using drones near Yeni Camii unless you have obtained specific permits.

Yes, you can certainly take photos of the friendly tortoises in the courtyard! They add a unique and charming element to the historical setting.Reddit

Weekday mornings often offer softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. However, the interior lighting is often sufficient for capturing the details of the dome and exhibitions at any time during opening hours.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no restaurants or cafes located directly inside Yeni Camii. However, the surrounding Eminönü district is packed with dining options, from traditional Turkish street food to sit-down restaurants.

You'll find a wide variety of Turkish cuisine near Yeni Camii. Popular choices include fresh fish sandwiches from boats by the Galata Bridge, simit (sesame bread rings), döner kebab, and various mezes. The Spice Bazaar area also offers many culinary delights.

Absolutely! The area around Yeni Camii is excellent for budget-friendly eats. Look for street vendors selling simit, börek, and köfte sandwiches, or find small lokantas (traditional eateries) offering affordable set meals.

Numerous small cafes and tea houses are scattered throughout Eminönü. You can easily find a spot to enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee or a glass of çay (tea) while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Generally, street food in popular tourist areas like Eminönü is safe and regulated. Opt for vendors with high turnover and visible hygiene practices. The fish sandwiches by the Galata Bridge are a famous local experience.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yeni Camii offers a unique experience for families. The free entry is a big plus, and the courtyard's resident tortoises are sure to delight children.Reddit The temporary exhibitions can also be engaging for younger visitors, depending on the theme. It's a good spot for a brief, interesting stop that won't exhaust little ones, especially when combined with a walk across the nearby Galata Bridge.

💰 Budget Travelers

Yeni Camii is a fantastic destination for budget travelers as entry is free, and it often hosts free exhibitions.Reddit The surrounding Eminönü area is also a hub for affordable Turkish street food and local eateries, allowing you to experience Istanbul's culinary scene without breaking the bank. Utilizing the Istanbulkart for public transport further minimizes costs.TikTok+1

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Yeni Camii presents a wealth of opportunities. The intricate details of the dome, the unique blend of Ottoman and European architectural influences, and the historical artifacts in the courtyard are all highly photogenic.InstagramReddit The tortoises also add a charming, unexpected element to your shots. Visiting on a weekday morning can help you capture these details with fewer distractions.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique History of Yeni Camii

Yeni Camii, meaning 'New Mosque,' has a fascinating and somewhat unconventional history. Construction began in 1615 but was halted for decades due to political and financial reasons. It was eventually completed in 1663, making it 'new' relative to older imperial mosques but still a significant historical structure.Reddit Unlike many grand mosques, its construction was initiated by a Valide Sultan (mother of the Sultan), Safiye Sultan, adding a unique dynastic element to its patronage.

The mosque's architecture showcases a blend of classical Ottoman styles with influences from the Hagia Sophia, featuring a large central dome and semi-domes. Its prominent location in the bustling Eminönü district made it a focal point for both religious and social life. Today, while it retains its architectural grandeur, its function has evolved, hosting exhibitions that offer a different perspective on its historical significance.Reddit

Exploring the Courtyard and Its Treasures

The courtyard of Yeni Camii is more than just an open space; it's an open-air museum of sorts. Visitors often remark on the interesting accumulation of marble artifacts, including ancient inscriptions and tombstones, some repurposed over centuries.Reddit Among these relics, you might spot an Ottoman inscription alongside one in Hebrew, hinting at the diverse historical layers of Istanbul.

Adding to the charm, the courtyard is home to numerous friendly tortoises. These slow-moving residents have become a beloved feature for many visitors, offering a peaceful contrast to the surrounding city bustle.Reddit It's a delightful spot to pause, observe the architectural details, and perhaps reflect on the passage of time as you admire the antiquities and the resident reptiles.

Understanding Yeni Camii's Role Today

While Yeni Camii was built as a functioning mosque, its role has shifted over time. It now frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, ranging from art installations to historical displays.Reddit This transformation means that while you can admire its stunning architecture and historical context, it may not be available for regular Islamic prayer services, a point that some visitors note with a touch of wistfulness.Reddit

This dual nature – a historical religious site now serving as a cultural venue – makes Yeni Camii a unique destination. It offers a chance to engage with Istanbul's past and present, appreciating both its architectural heritage and its evolving cultural landscape. The free entry to these exhibitions makes it an accessible and enriching experience for anyone interested in art, history, or simply the beauty of the building itself.

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