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Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide

Fatih, TR
57% of travellers recommend this
Very Good (7 reviews)
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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

    Highlights

    • Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
    • Explore cathedral-size underground water storage
    • Learn about mystery of Medusa heads
    • Receive audio guide for detailed tour
    • Discover ancient aqueduct system and history
    • Skip-the-line tickets
    • Audio Guide included
    • Duration 1 hour
    • Entrance to Basilica Cistern
    • Available in English

    Embark on a journey through time with the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry with Audio Guide experience. Dive into the depths of this ancient marvel, dating back to Byzantine times and marvel at the Medusa heads shrouded in mystery. Explore the cathedral-size cistern, constructed by Emperor Justinian I, and learn about its intricate water supply system from the Black Sea. Descend the stone steps into the heart of the cistern, surrounded by a firebrick wall, and immerse yourself in the history of this remarkable structure. Your QR Ticket and Audio Guide will be provided for a seamless experience. Don't miss out on this unforgettable adventure beneath the streets of Istanbul.

    At a Glance

    • Free cancellation
    • 1 hours
    • Instant Confirmation
    • Available in English
    • Mobile voucher
    • Self-guided
    • Family friendly

    Featured Reviews

    Very Good (7 reviews)
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    Viator
    greattimes2018
    Jan 25
    The Basilica Cistern itself was amazing. Very atmospheric and enjoyable. The audio guide itself (on our phones, we used our own AirPods to listen, some listened without but it didn't feel intrusive when ours was silent (though the attraction wasn't busy when we were there) was quite good. Go early and it is less busy. Hardly a queue to get through security. We had bought tickets through Tripadvisor which were priced competitively. BUT almost none of the very many staff spoke any English (or French or German we tried) and none of them recognised our tickets even though we had followed all instructions to download, add to wallet etc.. they kept trying to make us wait for an actual person to guide us although we had the link for the audio guide. They even tried to send us back to do security again (only 10 minutes as we were early but could have been 20+ later in the day) because we were there at 09.29 for an 09.30 slot. After 15 minutes and 6 people who didn't recognise our ticket and could speak no English we got through and then had to wait again to get someone else to download the audio guide. Such a shame as the space is fabulous. The audio guide itself was quite good but would have preferred clearer chronological history. Go, it's worth it. But be ready!
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    Viator
    martinsT4716AJ
    Nov 24
    The cistern is a wonderful place to visit in Istanbul. There were quite long queues, but with the Istanbul Tourist Pass we used during our 3 day stay, everything was much easier as we had priority.
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    Viator
    Basil B
    Feb 25
    An amazing feat of engineering and incredible to think how long ago it was done. Lighting really adds atmosphere. There were quite a few tours but it felt quiet and we could most of the time on our own. It's not a white knuckle ride and pretty much all of it consists of water and columns. But it was a lovely hour or so.
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    Viator
    mlozano77
    May 25
    I do not recommend buying tickets in advance from this tour operator. No QR code was provided making it difficult to get in. Ticket counter was not able to help. You are better off buying your ticket at the site. Basilica Cistern was eerie but impressive.
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    Viator
    buddita
    Jun 25
    The place is amazing, but the people that work there are soooooo rude. I wouldn’t go back just because of that reason. A place full of history should be run by people that treat other kindly, we never received the QR code from Viator, we were showing them what the email said “tickets” but they didn’t give a crap. Rude, rude, rude.
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    Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide

    Discover the ancient Basilica Cistern with skip-the-line entry and an informative audio guide, immersing yourself in Byzantine history.

    Included

    • inclusion
      Skip-the-line tickets
    • inclusion
      Guided Tour - Optional
    • inclusion
      Entrance to Basilica Cistern
    • inclusion
      Audio guide available in 25 languages

    Excluded

    • exclusion
      Gratuities
    • exclusion
      Tips

    Meeting Point

    Meeting point

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

    End point

    End Point

    Meeting point

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

    End point

    What to expect

    1

    Basilica Cistern

    Basilica Cistern

    At the Basilica Cistern, visitors step into an impressive underground space built in the 6th century by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The cistern, which once stored water for the Great Palace of Constantinople, features 336 marble columns and a peaceful, cool atmosphere. One of the highlights is the Medusa head columns—two ancient stone carvings of Medusa, one placed upside down and the other sideways. These add a mysterious touch to the site. As you explore, you’ll also learn about the cistern’s history and its importance in Istanbul’s water system. The Basilica Cistern is a unique and fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a special experience.

    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
      Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Additional information
      Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Additional information
      Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    Provided by Istanbul Tourist Pass®

    What our experts say

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      Visit nearby Hagia Sophia afterward.
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      Explore local cafes for Turkish tea.
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      Bring a light sweater; it can be cool.
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      Check the opening hours before visiting.
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      Look for the upside-down Medusa heads!

    Why Book with Evendo?

    More About this Experience

    Introduction

    Step back in time and immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the Basilica Cistern with a Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide. This experience will transport you to Byzantine times, where you can marvel at the engineering marvels of Emperor Justinian's reign.

    What to Expect?

    With this Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket, you can anticipate a seamless entry into this historical site, avoiding long queues and making the most of your time exploring the underground marvel. The Audio Guide will provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of the cistern, including the mysterious Medusa heads from Greek mythology.

    Who is This For?

    This experience is perfect for history enthusiasts, architecture buffs, and anyone with a curiosity for ancient civilizations. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, the Basilica Cistern offers a unique glimpse into the past that will leave you in awe of its grandeur and ingenuity.

    Why Book This?

    Immerse yourself in the heart of Istanbul's history with a Skip-the-Line Ticket to the Basilica Cistern. Avoid the hassle of waiting in long lines and dive straight into the wonders of Byzantine architecture and engineering. The Audio Guide will enrich your experience with captivating stories and historical facts, making your visit truly unforgettable.

    Good to Know

    Before your tour date, you will receive your QR Ticket and Audio Guide via email for a hassle-free experience. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as you descend the stone steps into the cistern and prepare to be amazed by the sheer size and significance of this ancient water storage system.

    Reviews

    Travelers who have explored the Basilica Cistern with the Skip-the-Line Ticket and Audio Guide rave about the convenience of skipping the long queues and the wealth of information provided by the guide. Many have described the experience as mesmerizing and a must-visit for anyone interested in Istanbul's rich history. Don't miss out on this opportunity to delve into the mysteries of the past at the Basilica Cistern.

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