Visit Istanbul's Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir with a mysterious ambiance. Skip the ticket line to explore Medusa heads, marble columns, and serene waters with a digital audio guide.
About this ticket
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
- Duration 1 day
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Audio guide included
- English, German, Italian, Spanish, French, Russian, Turkish
- Wheelchair accessible
Highlighted reviews from other travelers
The tour was good but you should load two apps before getting to the cistern, otherwise, you would need an employees help to do so without WiFi.
Line was huge and we just walked right past it. Basilica cistern is quite frankly magical and the audio guide was decent. It was probably my favourite attraction.
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Participants
Date
Meeting point
This is not a guided tour. Please go to Basilica Cistern and enter the attraction on your own with your tickets. When you visit the Basilica Cistern, be sure to queue on the right line mentioned as "ONLINE TICKET QUEUE". Your tickets with a QR Code will be sent one day before your tour date via e-mail and WhatsApp application (if used). You will receive a message from your activity provider as shown below. "Cityzore via GetYourGuide message@reply.getyourguide.com Your activity provider sent you a message" During peak seasons, expect lines at security checkpoints. Please note that your ticket does not provide priority access. In the busiest periods, entry may take longer than usual.
Open in Google MapsImportant information
Not allowed
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Luggage or large bags
- Food and drinks
- Unaccompanied minors
- Smoking
- High-heeled shoes
Know before you go
- This is not a guided tour. You will receive a mail and WhatsApp message including your tickets with QR codes from your activity provider
- Basilica is closed to visitors 6:30 PM-7:30 PM for event preparations, requiring an extra entry ticket
- Kids under 5 may enter the basilica for free with a valid ID but must have an adult accompanying them
- For safety reasons, kids under 15 are not allowed to enter without their parents
- The humidity inside the cistern is 96%, causing water to drip from the ceiling and potentially damage electronic devices
- Visitors sensitive to high humidity or low light levels should be cautious of potential health issues
- Leaning or sitting on the railings is dangerous and prohibited
- Entering the water in the cistern, touching or taking the wish coins inside is prohibited
- Entering the cistern with cutting, burning tools, or weapons is prohibited