Included free Museums 5.0 (30,317)

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour with Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry

Explore the iconic Basilica Cistern with a guided tour that brings its history to life. Skip the long ticket lines and enjoy fast entry while learning about this atmospheric underground landmark from an expert guide.

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour with Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry

Highlights

  • Skip the long ticket lines and enter the mysterious Basilica Cistern with ease
  • Explore the Basilica Cistern with a professional guided tour
  • Feel the past with the amazing architecture! In the construction of the cistern, more than 7000 people worked!
  • Specially curated exclusive audio guide for you to learn all about the Cistern.

Included with this experience

  • Entrance to Basilica Cistern Online Ticket
  • Guided tour with a professional licensed guide
  • Audio Guide in 25 Different Languages
  • Learn more about The Basilica Cistern which is the largest of hundreds of ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul.
  • Be amazed by the Basilica Cistern’s rich history and striking architecture, one of the most fascinating landmarks to visit in Istanbul.

About Basilica Cistern Guided

The Basilica Cistern is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. Visit the Underground Palace (Yerebatan Sarnic), as it was known by the Ottomans, and experience the wonder of the vast cistern for yourself. You'll either feel transported back in time or onto the set of the blockbuster film "Inferno" as listening to your audio guide the history behind interesting features such as the Medusa head pillar bases. Bring on the adventure!

Self-discover this incredible place by listening to the specially curated audio guide, exclusively prepared by your Pass! You can listen the audio guide in your own language with its 25 language options! Please note that the Basilica Cistern tour is not available on Fridays.

For this unique journey into Istanbul’s hidden past and much more, Buy Your Pass Now! Istanbul Tourist Pass® is here to make your Istanbul trip an unforgettable experience!

Good to know

  • The tour is led by a licensed English-speaking guide.
  • Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before the tour start time. The guide will be waiting in front of Dsign Cafe with a white flag.
  • Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums in order to validate their age.
  • The museum is closed for visits for half a day on the first day of Ramadan and Sacrifice Festivals.
  • You cannot enter with a suitcase.
  • You can buy your online ticket separately from the Istanbul Tourist Pass®.

Important info

Basilica Cistern guided tours are available every day except Fridays at 10:30 and 16:30.

Guests must meet the tour guide at least 15 minutes before the tour time in front of Dsign Cafe. The guide will be holding a white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® / istanbul.com logo.

FAQ

Why is Basilica Cistern Called Underground Palace (Yerebatan Sarnic)? +
The Basilica Cistern is called the Underground Palace or Yerebatan Sarnic in Turkish due to its remarkable architectural features and grand scale.
Why Should I Visit the Basilica Cistern? +
It is the largest of the several ancient cisterns in Istanbul. With its charming historical and architectural structure, the Basilica Cistern is one of the best places to visit in Istanbul.
Can I Get in Basilica Cistern with Istanbul Tourist Pass®? +
Yes, with your pass you will get a free online ticket for Basilica Cistern. You need to pre-book your ticket in advance for a hassle-free entrance.
How much is entry to Basilica Cistern? +
The entry fee for the Basilica Cistern might be changing through time. However, if you have the Istanbul Tourist Pass, entry is always FREE for you!
How Old is the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul? +
The mesmerizing Basilica Cistern was built by the Emperor Justinian in A.C 532. So now, it is more than 1400 years old!

Opening hours

Open

Every day

09:00 - 18:30

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3 days · skip-the-line on 74 attractions

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