Yeni Valide Mosque (Üsküdar), Istanbul - a large building with a dome and a clock on it
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Yeni Valide Mosque Istanbul

4.8
·3k reviews·, Türkiye

A stunning 19th-century mosque blending Ottoman grandeur with unique Neogothic architectural flair in Istanbul's Aksaray district.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Yeni Valide Mosque (Üsküdar), Istanbul - a large building with a dome and a clock on it

Yeni Valide Mosque Istanbul

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning 19th-century mosque blending Ottoman grandeur with unique Neogothic architectural flair in Istanbul's Aksaray district.

4.8
(3k reviews)

"A beautiful and unique mosque, a must-see for its distinct architectural style!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚊 Use Public Transport

Opt for the metro or ride-sharing apps to avoid taxi scams. The M11 metro is a great option from the airport.

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees; women should wear a headscarf. Respect prayer times.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Neogothic Architectural Fusion

Neogothic Architectural Fusion

Aksaray District

Marvel at the unique blend of Ottoman and Neogothic styles, a rare architectural gem in Istanbul.

Instagram+1
Serene Morning Ambiance

Serene Morning Ambiance

Exterior Courtyard

Experience the tranquility of the mosque in the early morning light, a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Instagram
Proximity to Egyptian Bazaar

Proximity to Egyptian Bazaar

Near Spice Bazaar

Conveniently located near the bustling Spice Bazaar, making it easy to combine sightseeing with shopping.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport

Istanbul's public transport is efficient and affordable. Avoid taxi scams by using ride-sharing apps or the metro. The M11 metro line is a quick and cheap way to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center. TikTok+1

Respectful Mosque Visits

When visiting Yeni Valide Mosque, dress modestly. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear long pants. Be mindful of prayer times and avoid visiting during peak hours. Instagram

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (outside prayer times)
Why
Less crowded than peak hours
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Let me know what other questions you have! My Istanbul travel guide is 🔗 on my site. #istanbultravelguide #whattoknowbeforevisitingistanbul #visitistanbul #istanbultraveltip
@travelbyram
47.6K likes • 1M views

🚊 Use Public Transport

Opt for the metro or ride-sharing apps to avoid taxi scams. The M11 metro is a great option from the airport. TikTok+1

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees; women should wear a headscarf. Respect prayer times. Instagram

The public transportation system in Istanbul is amazing… please don’t get scammed by taxi drivers! #istanbulM11 #istanbulmetro #istanbulairportmetro #istanbultraveltips #istanbultravelguide #istanbult...
@travelbyram
16.7K likes • 450.7K views
📍İstanbul/Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Camii “Hoşgeldin Ya Şehr-i Ramazan 🌙 “ #pertevniyalvalidesultancamii #istanbul #gezelim #gezelimgörelim #gezginler #gezginstgram #gezginkadinlar #gezgör #gezgörke...
turuncu.saclikiz
991 likes • 0 views

📸 Capture the Details

The mosque's unique Neogothic elements offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with the nearby Spice Bazaar for a fuller Istanbul experience. Reddit

📍İstanbul/Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Camii #istanbul #pertevniyalvalidesultancamii #gezginstagram #travelphotography #gezelimgörelim #gezginkadinlar #gezginler #travel #keşfetedüş #travelblogger #keşf...
turuncu.saclikiz
944 likes • 6.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚊 Use Public Transport

Opt for the metro or ride-sharing apps to avoid taxi scams. The M11 metro is a great option from the airport. TikTok+1

👗 Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees; women should wear a headscarf. Respect prayer times. Instagram

📸 Capture the Details

The mosque's unique Neogothic elements offer fantastic photo opportunities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

Combine your visit with the nearby Spice Bazaar for a fuller Istanbul experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by Yeni Valide Mosque's unique Neogothic-Ottoman architectural fusion, finding it a visually striking and less crowded alternative to more famous mosques. Its serene atmosphere, especially in the mornings, and convenient location near the Spice Bazaar are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some visitors note that it can be less grand than other major mosques, but its distinctiveness is a strong draw.

"Valide-i Cedid Mosque is a hidden gem in Üsküdar, offering a peaceful and historic atmosphere away from the crowds. The architecture is stunning, with intricate tilework and a beautifully designed interior. Unlike some of the more touristy mosques in Istanbul, this one provides a more tranquil and spiritual experience.

During Ramadan, the mosque becomes even more special. The evening prayers (Tarawih) create a deeply spiritual atmosphere, and the surrounding area comes alive with iftar gatherings and a sense of community. If you’re visiting Istanbul during Ramadan, experiencing the mosque in this sacred month is highly recommended"

Meryem

"The most important feature of this mosque is that it has an outer courtyard with porticoes and 10 elevated staircases at the entrance."

baran avci

"This is one of many beautiful Masjid’s Istanbul. You cannot go wrong with the Ottoman design and architecture. High recommend a visit. This Masjid does get busy as it is in a prime busy location."

Salim Miah

What People Like

Unique architecture
Less crowded
Serene mornings

What People Dislike

Less grand than Blue Mosque

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most efficient way is to take the M11 metro line from Istanbul Airport towards the city center. You can then transfer to other metro lines or use ride-sharing apps to reach the Aksaray district where the mosque is located. TikTok

Yes, the mosque is well-connected by Istanbul's public transport network. You can use the metro and tram systems, with stations like Aksaray being a short walk away. TikTok

While taxis are available, be cautious of potential scams. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing apps or public transport for a more reliable and affordable journey. TikTok

Istanbulkart is your best friend for seamless travel on metros, trams, buses, and ferries. It's a rechargeable card that makes navigating the city a breeze. TikTok

Yes, Yeni Valide Mosque is located near the Spice Bazaar (Egyptian Bazaar). It's a pleasant walk between the two, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Yeni Valide Mosque, like most mosques in Istanbul, is free to enter. Donations are welcome to help with its upkeep. Instagram

Mosques are generally open to visitors outside of prayer times. It's best to check local listings or avoid visiting during the five daily prayer times to ensure respectful access. Instagram

No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit freely during non-prayer hours. Instagram

The mosque is closed to visitors during the five daily prayer times. It's advisable to check prayer schedules or visit during the mid-morning or afternoon. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside the mosque, but it's important to be respectful and avoid using flash or taking photos during prayer. Instagram

🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience

Visitors must dress modestly. Women should cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Men should wear long pants. Scarves are often available to borrow at the entrance if needed. Instagram

Yeni Valide Mosque is notable for its blend of Ottoman architecture with Neogothic influences, a distinctive feature that sets it apart from other mosques in Istanbul. Instagram+1

While it's a significant landmark, it's generally less crowded than the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, especially if you visit outside of peak tourist hours or prayer times. Instagram

Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for capturing the mosque's exterior and serene atmosphere. Instagram

Basic facilities like restrooms are usually available. It's always a good idea to carry your own water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Experiment with different angles to capture the mosque's unique facade. The early morning light can highlight the Neogothic details beautifully. Instagram

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside, but always be respectful of worshippers and avoid using flash. Focus on the intricate details of the interior architecture. Instagram

For exterior shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur. For interior shots, a prime lens with a wide aperture will help in low light conditions. Instagram

Drone usage is heavily regulated in Istanbul, especially near historical sites and residential areas. It's best to assume it's not permitted unless you have explicit authorization. Instagram

The 'golden hour' shortly after sunrise provides a warm, soft light that enhances the mosque's architectural features. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Yeni Valide Mosque offers a relatively calm environment compared to some of Istanbul's more crowded major attractions, making it a good option for families. The unique architecture can spark children's curiosity, and the open courtyard provides space to move around. Remember to ensure children are dressed modestly and supervised, especially near prayer times. The proximity to the Spice Bazaar also offers a sensory-rich experience for kids, with colorful stalls and interesting smells. InstagramReddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

Yeni Valide Mosque is an excellent choice for budget travelers as it's free to enter. The real cost-saver, however, is utilizing Istanbul's efficient public transport system. Opting for the metro and trams with an Istanbulkart will significantly reduce your travel expenses compared to relying on taxis. TikTok Combine your visit with nearby free attractions like the Spice Bazaar to maximize your exploration without spending a fortune. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: A Blend of Styles

Yeni Valide Mosque, also known as Pertevniyal Valide Sultan Mosque, stands as a testament to the evolving architectural tastes of the Ottoman Empire. Commissioned by Bezmiâlem Valide Sultan, mother of Sultan Abdülaziz, its construction began in 1869 and was completed in 1871. What truly sets this mosque apart is its striking incorporation of Neogothic elements, a departure from the classical Ottoman style. This fusion creates a visually unique and captivating structure that sparks curiosity among visitors. Instagram+1

The mosque's exterior features pointed arches, decorative tracery, and a more vertical emphasis, all characteristic of the Neogothic revival movement popular in Europe during the 19th century. This blend with traditional Ottoman mosque design, including its domed structure and minarets, results in a fascinating architectural dialogue. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the diverse architectural heritage of Istanbul. Instagram

Visitors often remark on the unexpected beauty and distinctiveness of its design. The mosque's location in the Aksaray district also makes it a convenient stop for those exploring this vibrant part of the city. Instagram

Navigating Istanbul's Public Transport System

Getting around Istanbul, especially from the airport to attractions like Yeni Valide Mosque, is made significantly easier with its extensive public transportation network. The M11 metro line is a game-changer for airport transfers, offering a quick and budget-friendly route into the city. Travelers are advised to follow signs for 'Metro' upon arrival and head outside to catch it. TikTok

Beyond the airport metro, Istanbul boasts a comprehensive system of trams, buses, and ferries, all accessible with an Istanbulkart. This rechargeable card is essential for seamless travel and significantly cheaper than single tickets. Redditors often emphasize the importance of using public transport to avoid overpriced taxis and potential scams. TikTok+1

When planning your journey to Yeni Valide Mosque, consider using the metro to reach the Aksaray station, which is a short walk from the mosque. This approach not only saves money but also provides a more authentic local experience. TikTok

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