Basilica Cistern Travel Guide

Free Guide: Explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient marvel in Istanbul's heart, showcasing Byzantine architecture and a serene atmosphere beneath the bustling city.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Basilica Cistern

A brief summary of Basilica Cistern

Explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient marvel in Istanbul's heart, showcasing Byzantine architecture and a serene atmosphere beneath the bustling city.

The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground marvel in Istanbul, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city's rich history. With its striking columns and serene atmosphere, it is a must-visit for any traveler interested in the architectural wonders of the past.

4.6 Excellent · 72,659 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day9 am–6:30 pm, 7:30 pm–11:50 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
Phone
Website

Getting there

Car

If you're driving, enter the following address into your GPS: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul. There is limited parking in the area, so look for nearby parking lots or street parking. Be mindful of local parking regulations to avoid fines.

Public Transportation - Tram

Take the tram (T1 line) to the Sultanahmet station. From there, it's a short walk to the Basilica Cistern. Exit the station, walk towards the Sultanahmet Square, and then head down Yerebatan Street. The Basilica Cistern entrance will be on your right. Make sure to purchase a tram ticket before boarding, which costs around 15 TL.

Public Transportation - Bus

You can take Bus 28 from various locations in Galatia to the Sultanahmet stop. Once you get off, follow the signs to the Basilica Cistern, which is approximately a 10-minute walk. The bus ticket costs about 15 TL. Ensure you have a contactless Istanbulkart for easier travel on public transport.

Walking

If you're staying in the Sultanahmet area, you can walk to the Basilica Cistern. It is located about a 10-15 minute walk from the Blue Mosque. Head down Yerebatan Street, and you will see the entrance to the Cistern on your right.

Discover more about Basilica Cistern

Overview

The Basilica Cistern, a remarkable historical landmark in the heart of Istanbul, is a captivating site that transports visitors back to the Byzantine era. Known for its vast underground chamber supported by 336 columns, this ancient cistern was built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I. It served the crucial purpose of storing water for the Great Palace of Constantinople and is a brilliant example of Byzantine engineering. As you step inside, the cool, dimly lit atmosphere envelops you, creating an enchanting ambiance accentuated by the gentle sound of dripping water. The intricate carvings on the columns, especially the famous Medusa heads, add a mystical touch to this subterranean wonder.Walking through the Basilica Cistern, tourists can marvel at its impressive architecture and learn about its fascinating history through informative displays. The cistern has been featured in various films and novels, which adds to its allure and cultural significance. Visitors often find themselves captivated by the ethereal beauty of this underground sanctuary, making it a popular attraction for those seeking a unique experience in Istanbul. The site also hosts occasional art exhibitions, blending history with contemporary artistic expression. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a tranquil escape from the bustling city above, the Basilica Cistern is an unforgettable destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Explore Basilica Cistern on the map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Basilica Cistern, mapped for you.

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Basilica Cistern, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from opening hours and how to get there to Eve’s tips and the best time to go, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Unlock the best of Basilica Cistern

Skip-the-line tickets, guided tours with entry, and walking tours of the area, booked in a few clicks.

See all tours and tickets

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

More to explore near Basilica Cistern

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery.

Activate your presence Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Explore more

Galatia
More of the region

Explore more of Galatia

Discover the ancient wonders of Galatia in Turkey, where history, culture, and nature converge to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Explore Galatia
Turkiye
More of the country

Explore more of Turkiye

Discover Turkiye: Where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Explore Turkiye
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Galatia

Discover Galatia with Evendo - Your 100% Free App-Based Travel Guide. Covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more to make your trip unforgettable.

  • Detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking of hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Explore Galatia with Evendo, a comprehensive and free travel guide app. Find the best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and tours to make the most out of your visit.

  • History of Galatia and travel essentials
  • Curated local tips for an authentic experience
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near Me' feature
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases

Welcome to Evendo, your ultimate travel companion for exploring the enchanting city of Galatia, Türkiye. As a traveler, you want to make the most of your trip, and Evendo is here to ensure that every moment is unforgettable. Galatia is a city rich in history and culture, boasting famous landmarks such as the Temple of Augustus, the Ankara Castle, and the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. With Evendo, you can easily discover these iconic sites and more.

Our app provides detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Galatia. Imagine walking through the historic streets and having instant access to local tips, images, maps, and contact details for every site you encounter. Want to dine at the best local restaurants? Evendo has you covered with recommendations like Trilye Restaurant and Zenger Paşa Konağı.

Beyond just information, Evendo allows you to book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app, saving you the hassle of searching and planning. With features like the 'Near Me' function, you'll always know what's around you, whether you're exploring the ancient ruins or looking for a cozy café.

Evendo is more than just a travel guide; it's your personal concierge in Galatia. The app includes curated local tips and travel essentials to ensure you experience the city like a local. And the best part? It's completely free to use, with no hidden costs or in-app purchases. Plus, with global coverage of over 7,000 destinations, Evendo is your go-to travel guide wherever you go.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.