There are less tourists who venture here. If Google maps confuse you, just keep asking the locals for directions. Aside from the scammers, Turkish people are truly nice and helpful. Built from 1550-1557, beautiful Suleymaniye Mosque is a large complex to explore, with the mausoleums of Suleiman the Magnificent (and family), and has a sprawling view of Istanbul, too! For the practical tip: by the view side, the old WC (toilets) cost 5 Lira/ person. By the mausoleum entrance, the more modern WC are Free and clean!

A magnificent building, loved this stunning Mosque, away from the main tourist area and situated in a much elevated position overlooking the Bosphorus, peaceful and calming where you can sit in quiet contemplation. It still has a Madrasa/school and study area for young people to meet and study. The Tombs of Suleyman the Magnificent, his wife and family are also set within the site of the Mosque, we marvelled at the elaborate tiles and gorgeous stained glass truly not to be missed.

One of the most impressive mosques in all of Istanbul, and the one with the most commanding position. Due to its location outside of Sultanahmet area, there is usually no line to enter. As with all mosque, visitors are not allowed in for about an hour around each service. Additional points of interest include an extensive cemetery, a sultan's tomb, and a terrace with views towards Sultanahmet and Galata.

The Suleymaniye Mosque is the other side of the Grand Bazaar (from the main historic sites), and the third one recommended in the guidebooks. Commissioned by Sultan Suleiman I The Magnificent, it was designed by the sultan’s in-house architect, Mimar Sinan, whose tomb is nearby. It was built 1550-7. It is similar in its design and layout to the Aya Sofya, but to me it is almost too neat and symmetrical, too perfect, to have much character. Certainly it cuts a fine figure on its hilltop site, visible all around Istanbul. It was also set up to provide for the social needs of the community; primary school, soup kitchen, etc. The other main claim to fame of this mosque is that in the cemetery in the grounds are two tombs in the form of kiosks, for Sultan Suleiman and his wife Roxelana, which are pleasant sights in themselves.

The mosque of Suleiman the Magnificent is possibly the most beautiful of the four imperial mosques of Istanbul. The building with ten balconies and four minarets overlooks the Golden Horn and Bosphorus. The architecture was based on that of the Hagia Sophia and was executed by Sinan, a stonemason of Greek/Armenian heritage who converted to Islam and devoted his life's work to the royal court.

Suleymaniye Mosque stands as a sublime masterpiece against Istanbul's skyline. The intricate domes and serene courtyards create an atmosphere of tranquility. Visiting this architectural marvel provides a profound experience of Ottoman splendor and spiritual serenity. A must-visit for those seeking both historical and divine inspiration in Istanbul.

Another stunning creation by the Ottoman Empire’s most famous architect, Mimar Sinan, the Süleymaniye Mosque is one of my very favourite mosques in Istanbul. Commissioned by Süleymaniye the Magnificent, the mosque was begun in 1550 and completed in 1557. It has undergone various renovations over the centuries, but still retains a very magical quality. Any time I’ve ever been to the Süleymaniye, there have been very few other visitors there. Perhaps this is due to the fact that the mosque is a bit ‘out of the way’ - away from the Sultanahmet area. There are a number of ways of getting there. I chose to walk up through the very colourful, very vibrant and very steep back lanes in the Bayezit area.

Beautiful and historical mosque with great views outside and a stunning interior. It is far less crowded than the Blue Mosque or Hagia Sophia, but it is just as stunning. Without the mass crowds we were able to peacefully enjoy time inside, relaxing and taking in the beauty ina a quiet atmosphere.

Most mosques look the same and this mosque to some parts not an exception. The inside of the place is pretty standard and the rules for visiting is also standard (women need to cover their head, shoes off (socks is ok), show respect and keep a low sound level). There are digital tablets inside on which you can read about the place which also is good. But the outside is the really interesting thing about this place. First, we have the cemetery and the sultan’s tombs. Wonderful buildings and a peaceful area. Secondly, the views from the garden of the mosque is staggering! Expected as the mosque is built on the highest of the Istanbul hills. On the downside, there are no really good public transports that can take you here. You will need to walk at least 10-15 min to get to the mosque, and you should walk from the southwest side (from the Grand Bazar direction) since if you walk from the Golden Horn side, you will be walking upwards all the way. And it is steep! Toilets available on the grounds (5 TL).

Loved so many amazing sites. Enjoyed the opportunity to see the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque was incredible. My son wants to move to the city. Want to return very soon.People were so kind.