Modest Dressing for Mosques

Istanbul’s skyline is defined by the minarets of its spectacular mosques. Visiting architectural masterpieces like the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque is an essential part of any trip to the city. However, these are active places of worship, and a strict dress code is enforced at the doors. Here is how to pack appropriately so you can explore comfortably without having to buy cheap, disposable cover-ups at the entrance.

1. Hair Coverings for Women

All women must cover their hair before entering a mosque. While you can purchase paper-thin scarves outside the major mosques, it is far better (and more stylish) to bring your own. Pack a wide, lightweight scarf (such as a pashmina or a silk blend) in your day bag. It shouldn’t be so slippery that it falls off your head constantly, but it should be wide enough to completely drape over your hair and neck.

2. Shoulders and Knees Must Be Covered

Both men and women must have their shoulders and knees completely covered.

• Men: Shorts are generally not allowed inside mosques. Pack lightweight, breathable trousers (like linen or thin cotton) for days when you plan to visit religious sites. T-shirts are perfectly fine, but tank tops are forbidden.
• Women: You must wear long pants, a long skirt, or a maxi dress that reaches the ankles. Shoulders and upper arms must be covered. A lightweight cardigan is an excellent item to keep in your bag to throw over a short-sleeved dress before going inside.

3. The Slip-On Shoe Rule

You must remove your shoes before stepping onto the carpets inside a mosque. When you are visiting three or four mosques in a single day, constantly tying and untying heavy boots or complex strappy sandals becomes exhausting. Pack comfortable slip-on shoes (like loafers, espadrilles, or slip-on sneakers). You will be given a plastic bag at the door to carry your shoes with you while you walk around inside.

4. Bring Socks

The carpets in famous mosques like the Blue Mosque are walked on by thousands of people every single day. While they are cleaned, walking barefoot on them can feel unhygienic to some. In the summer heat when you might be wearing sandals, keep a clean pair of ankle socks in your day bag to slip on right before you enter the mosque.