The Çamlıca Mosque, or Büyük Çamlıca Camii, is a monumental and relatively new addition to Istanbul's skyline, inaugurated in 2019. As the largest mosque in Turkey, it stands as a symbol of modern Turkish architecture, designed by two female architects in a contemporary Ottoman style. Its strategic location on Çamlıca Hill on the Asian side of Istanbul provides unparalleled panoramic views of the city, the Bosphorus, and even the European side, making it a significant landmark visible from many parts of Istanbul.
Visitors frequently praise the mosque's sheer size and magnificent interior, often describing it as 'breathtaking' and 'stunning.' The serene atmosphere, elegant decor, and impressive blue carpets are consistently highlighted. Many reviewers note that despite its modern construction, the mosque evokes a sense of peace and grandeur comparable to older, more famous mosques, but with the added benefit of being less crowded. The complex also includes a museum of Islamic art, a library, and a cafe, which are often mentioned as pleasant additions to the visit. The museum, in particular, receives high marks for its exhibits, including a light show and historical artifacts.
To make the most of your visit, plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the mosque and its surroundings. Many visitors recommend arriving in the late afternoon to experience the sunset views over Istanbul, which are described as 'spectacular.' For women, it is advisable to bring a headscarf and ensure modest clothing; while coverings are often provided, having your own is convenient. Reviewers suggest wearing socks, especially in winter, as the mosque can be cool inside. The mosque is free to enter, but there is an entrance fee for the museum. The complex is wheelchair accessible, with elevators available.
Reaching the Çamlıca Mosque requires some planning as it is located on the Asian side and off the main tourist routes. Public transport options include taking the Marmaray train to Üsküdar, then a taxi or bus (e.g., bus 15C from Üsküdar pier, which drops you directly at the mosque). Another option is to take a ferry to Kadıköy, then bus 14F to Büyük Çamlıca. Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber/Bitaksi are also popular, with many visitors reporting reasonable fares from the European side (around £7-10). The mosque has a large underground parking garage, making it convenient for those driving. Be aware that the roads leading up to the hill can be winding and steep.
A common complaint among visitors is the difficulty of access via public transport, especially for those staying on the European side, as it often involves multiple transfers and can be time-consuming. To mitigate this, consider taking a taxi or ride-share directly from a major transport hub like Üsküdar or Kadıköy. While some reviewers feel it lacks the historical depth of older mosques, its modern grandeur and peaceful ambiance offer a different, equally rewarding experience. The library's limited opening hours (closing at 6 PM) have also been noted as an inconvenience by some, particularly students.