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

5 Reviews 4.20 out of 5 stars Based on 5 reviews collected by Key West Private Charters and TripAdvisor | Istanbul, Turkey
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 15 (0) days in advance.

1 hour (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

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.

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.

Guests who have selected the Basilica Cistern Guided Tour are required to meet their guide at the meeting point, Roots and Roasted Cafe, at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time.

What's Included

  • Entrance to Basilica Cistern
  • Audio guide available in 25 languages
  • Guided Tour - Optional
  • 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

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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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.For guided tours: Please meet your guide at Dsign Cafe at least 15 minutes before the tour time. For easy recognition, look for the white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and logos.
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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 (7)

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

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.20
5 reviews

Average 4.20 out of 5 stars based on 5 traveler reviews collected by Key West Private Charters and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
4
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
1
Don't miss out!
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 available in 25 languages
  • Guided Tour - Optional
  • 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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Activity name