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

4 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 4 reviews collected by City Boat Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Istanbul, Turkey

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On average, this is booked 15 (0) days in advance.

1 hour (approx.)
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Overview

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.

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.

Please note: The operating hours of the Basilica Cistern are from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on January 1st.

What's Included

  • Entrance to Basilica Cistern
  • Audio Guide
  • Tips
  • Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Basilica Cistern
Alemdar Mahallesi, Yerebatan Caddesi, No:1/3, Istanbul 34410, Turkiye

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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.
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Admission Ticket Included

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-6903P50

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Reviews

5.00
4 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 4 traveler reviews collected by City Boat Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

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On average, this is booked 15 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • Entrance to Basilica Cistern
  • Audio Guide
  • Tips
  • Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

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Free Cancellation

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100% refund
No refund

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).

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