Why choose this tour ?
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, Dsign Cafe, at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time.
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What makes Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide a unique experience ?
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.
Tour Description & Additional Info:
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Options To Choose for Your Trip:
Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide Inclusions:
Included with Your Ticket
- Entrance to Basilica Cistern
- Guided Tour - Optional
- Audio guide available in 25 languages
Not Included
- Tips
- Gratuities
Special Instructions:
Guided tours take place at 10:30, 13:30, and 15:45, except on Fridays. Participants are required to meet the guide at Dsign Cafe at least 15 minutes before the scheduled tour time. 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 be advised..
- This Tour is Provided by Istanbul Tourist Pass®.
- Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Istanbul.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- This Tour is Rated 3 Stars based on 7 valid reviews on VIATOR.
- Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
- Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time).
