Name: Basilica Cistern Istanbul | Explore the Ancient Underground Wonder - JTR Holidays
Brand: JTR Holidays
SKU: JTR776
Price: 38.45 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (2648 reviews)

Basilica Cistern Istanbul

4.8

(2648 reviews)

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is one of the most fascinating historical sites in the city. This ancient underground water storage system was built during the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century under Emperor Justinian I. It is located near the famous Hagia Sophia and is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Istanbul.

The Basilica Cistern is known for its grand design and mysterious atmosphere. It is a vast underground space with hundreds of marble columns, beautifully arranged to support the ceiling. The dim lighting and reflections of the water create a magical experience, making visitors feel like they are stepping into another world.

One of the most famous features of the Basilica Cistern is the Medusa heads. These ancient stone carvings, placed at the base of two columns, add a touch of mystery. No one knows exactly why they are there or why one is upside down and the other is sideways.

Visiting the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is a unique experience. The cool underground air offers a refreshing break from the city’s busy streets. As you walk along the wooden pathways over the water, you can admire the impressive architecture and the history surrounding this place.

The Basilica Cistern is a popular attraction in Istanbul, drawing tourists from all over the world. It is a great spot for history lovers, photographers, and anyone looking for a unique experience in the city. If you are planning a trip to Istanbul, make sure to include the Basilica Cistern in your itinerary.

Basilica Cistern Istanbul Price & Options

Select a Date

DD MM, YYYY

Person

(6-99 years)

Skip-the-Line Ticket

Person:

£ 28.69

Skip-the-Line Ticket with Audioguide

How To

By train: 5-minute walk from the Sultanahmet stop on the tram code T1

Exclusions

Tour guide
Other personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Night time entry (separate tickets sold on site)

Inclusions

Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern

How To Redeem

The voucher is valid until 2025-12-31 23:59:59

Things To Know

Dangerous materials and items such as bottles, firecrackers, lasers, and other things that may disturb or inconvenience other attendees are prohibited inside the venue
Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue

Person:

£ 30.63

COMBO: Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia (Skip-the-Line Tickets)

Location

Basilica Cistern, Yerebatan Cad. Alemdar Mah. 1/3 34410 Sultanahmet-Fatih/İSTANBUL
To get the direction Google map
Hagia Sophia, Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
To get the direction Google map

Dress Code

It is required to wear respectful attire when entering the Hagia Sophia
Women are advised against wearing knee-length shorts, skirts, or attire revealing shoulders or chests, and are encouraged to partially cover their hair with a scarf
Men should avoid knee-length shorts or attire exposing their shouldersClothing and scarves can be obtained for purchase upon entry to the site

Exclusions

Tour guide Other personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Skipping the security check line

Inclusions

Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern
Skip-the-line ticket to Hagia Sophia

Things To Know

Please note that due to ongoing renovation, certain areas of the Hagia Sophia may be inaccessible to visitors at this time
There is a mandatory security queue, and it is not skippable. In high season, security checks can take up to an hour

Person:

£ 59.54

£ 59.13