Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Visit the Basilica Cistern, built in the 4th century and enlarged in 532 AD, used as water storage during Byzantine times. Listen to your guide as they explain the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.
Explore this cathedral-size cistern, built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in 532 A.D. to supply water to the Great Palace. It stores up to 80,000 cubic meters of water, delivered via 20 kilometers of aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea.
An audio guide is included and available in 25 languages: English, German, Russian, Persian, Arabic, French, Italian, Chinese, Dutch, Spanish, Hindi, Romanian, Ukrainian, Korean, Turkish, Bulgarian, Polish, Swedish, Japanese, Indonesian, Greek, Hungarian, Portuguese, Urdu, and Croatian.
Please note: The operating hours of the Basilica Cistern are from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on January 1st.
Available options
Small Guided Tour BCSG33
EntryTicket Audio Guide BCSE96
SkiptheLine Guided Tour BCST41
Private Guided Tour BCPT47
What's included
Entrance to Basilica Cistern
Audio guide available in 25 languages
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
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.
What's not included
Tips
Gratuities
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.2
6 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Important notes
Descend the fifty-two stone steps into the entrance of the cistern. Your QR Ticket and Audio Guide will be sent via e-mail prior to tour date by the activity provider.
You will receive your both Entry Ticket QR Codes & Audio Guide link via separate e-mail from supplier Istanbul Tourist Pass. It is not possible to skip the security lines. There could be a line at the entrance and is mandatory for all visitors.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
