Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour

Fatih, TR
66% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (276 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Admission to Basilica Cistern
  • inclusion
    Professional licensed guide

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Meal
  • exclusion
    Transportation

Meeting Point

At the Busforus (Red Double-decker Bus) Stop across the Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square. D marked bus stop sign.

Meeting point

Cankurtaran, At Meydanı Cd No:3, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye

End point

End Point

After the tour ends, you will be free to explore the cistern and take pictures.

Meeting point

Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul , Turkiye

End point

What to expect

1
Basilica Cistern

You will meet with our guide at the meeting point and continue to the museum. The guide will explain the history of the place and the tour will end at the museum.

Duration 25 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Istanbul E-pass

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit nearby Hagia Sophia after tour.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning photos.
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
  • icon
    Explore local cafes in Sultanahmet Square.
  • icon
    Check the weather before your visit.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the intriguing history of Istanbul with the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour. This unique tour offers the opportunity to explore an ancient underground reservoir like no other. With the guidance of a knowledgeable tour guide, you'll bypass the long ticket lines and step into a world filled with wonder and architectural splendor. The Basilica Cistern has captivated travelers from around the world with its fascinating history and remarkable features. From the raised wooden platforms to the stunning medusa-head column bases, every corner of this subterranean marvel tells a story waiting to be discovered.

What to expect?

During this 20 to 30-minute tour, you can expect a captivating journey through the Basilica Cistern's hidden depths. Your expert guide will lead you through the enchanting corridors, sharing the history and significance of this underground wonder. As you walk on the raised wooden platforms, you'll feel water gently dripping from the arched ceilings, transporting you back in time to the days of Byzantine Istanbul. The Basilica Cistern's unique atmosphere and ancient charm make it a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts, photographers, and curious travelers alike.

Who is this for?

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour is perfect for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Istanbul's rich past. This tour caters to all ages and interests, making it accessible to families, solo travelers, and groups alike. From seasoned historians to those new to the world of antiquity, this immersive experience promises to captivate and inspire.

Why book this?

Embarking on the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour offers you a chance to unlock the secrets of a hidden treasure beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul. By choosing this tour, you'll benefit from skipping the ticket lines and having a knowledgeable guide by your side to reveal the fascinating history and intricate details of the cistern. Gain exclusive insights into the construction, purpose, and cultural significance of this architectural marvel, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience.

Good to know

To make the most of your Basilica Cistern experience, it's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and bring your camera to capture the enchanting ambience. The cistern is located near the Hagia Sophia in Sultanahmet Square, easily accessible by the Busforus Red Double-decker Bus. After the tour ends, you'll have the freedom to explore the cistern at your own pace and take unforgettable photographs. Prepare to be transported through time as you navigate the dimly lit corridors of this remarkable subterranean world.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Guided Tour have praised its ability to transport them back in time. They rave about the knowledgeable guides who bring the cistern's history to life, providing captivating stories and facts. Visitors are particularly mesmerized by the unique atmosphere created by the water-dripping arched ceilings and the captivating beauty of the medusa-head column bases. Overall, customers express their satisfaction and recommend this tour as an unforgettable adventure into Istanbul's hidden past.

Select Currency