What is the dress code for visiting mosques in Istanbul (and everyday streetwear)?
From messages by 3 participants in 1 source · Last activity: 63 days ago
At the entrance to most Istanbul mosques, skirts and headscarves (reusable fabric, not disposable) are given out for free — you return them on the way out, no need to buy anything.
Free skirts/scarves at entrance, returned on exit
Mosques in other Turkish cities (e.g. Ankara, Kayseri) are much more relaxed about dress code — you can enter as you are, without a headscarf or wrap.
Ankara, Kayseri — no strict dress code
In Istanbul specifically, mosques strictly require you to cover up — a headscarf and a long wrap-around skirt over your regular clothes.
Istanbul — headscarf and skirt required
On the streets, in cafes and in everyday life nobody will say anything if you wear shorts or a short skirt, but it does draw extra attention, especially on a first visit.
Main streets/cafes — shorts are okay
If you plan to visit a lot of mosques and temples (almost unavoidable on a first trip), it's more convenient to dress modestly from the start rather than changing clothes or feeling awkward at the entrance.