Istanbul Basilica Cistern Guided Tour

4.8
(1271 Reviews)

About this activity

Smartphone tickets accepted

Duration: from 45 minutes to 1 hour
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£34 £31
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Experience Highlights

This tour will allow you to visit the Basilica Cistern of Istanbul without waiting or queuing. The tour includes an expert guide, who will tell you all about this Byzantine-era cistern, which is around 1,500 years old.

The tour will last approximately 30 minutes, after which you will have free time to explore the cistern at your own pace. Along the way, you will also see the two famous Medusa's head statues, which, according to legend, will turn you to stone if you look into their eyes.

  • Save time and avoid the queues at one of Istanbul's most popular attractions.
  • Discover the secrets of the largest cistern built in ancient times, narrated by an expert guide.
  • Enjoy the freedom to explore the cistern at your own pace after the guided tour

What’s included

  • Entrance to the Cistern Basilica in Istanbul
  • Professional guide
  • Preferential entrance, no need to wait in line

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Step by Step

In this activity, you will have the opportunity to visit the Basilica Cistern of Istanbulwithout queuing or waiting . Throughout the visit, you will be accompanied by an expert guide, thanks to whom you will learn many interesting facts about this famous cistern, the largest built in antiquity .The tour will last about 30 minutes, after which you will have free time to visit the site on your own.

The Basilica Cistern is one of the most popular attractions in Istanbul. This underground cistern was built in the 6th century AD during the reign of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. The cistern is 140 metres long by 70 metres wide and can hold up to 80,000 cubic metres of water .

In addition to its impressive size, the cistern features elaborately carved columns as well as two famous Medusa's head statues that have been placed upside down. This is a visit to one of the most representative examples of the impressive Roman and Byzantine architecture of antiquity. Ideal for lovers of history and culture.

Reviews

4.8
· 1271 Reviews
  • K
    K.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The lights in the cistern create a magical atmosphere, perfect for taking stunning photos and videos.
  • S
    S.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    This tour of the Basilica Cistern was amazing, I have never seen anything like it in my life.
  • R
    R.
    4
    (0 Reviews)
    It was a good visit, nothing exceptional, but you learn a lot and enjoy it.
  • N
    N.
    5
    (0 Reviews)
    The activity was great! The explanation was good and to the point
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