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Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide

Location Istanbul, Turkey, Europe
$55.61
This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.

Overview

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.

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 note: The operating hours of the Basilica Cistern are from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM on January 1st.

The experience offers several options. This price includes:

EntryTicket Audio Guide BCSE96
Tour guide
Language: English
Audio guide
Duration: 1 hour

Availability depends on seasonality and number of participants. Bookings can not be made for the same day. Please read our TnC’s.

When giving as a gift, your recipient can choose a date at their convenience during a booking process. Otherwise, you can choose one after checkout and voucher redemption.
Check available dates by emailing us at [email protected]
The experience offers several options, check yours above
  • Entrance to Basilica Cistern
  • Audio Guide
  • Gratuities
  • Tips

Meeting point
Basilica Cistern
Return details
Basilica Cistern

  • Basilica Cistern
    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.

  • 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
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!

    Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide

    Location Istanbul, Turkey, Europe
    $55.61
    This is an experience gift voucher. The recipient will book the experience after they redeem the gift voucher.
    How it works?
    01 You choose from 10,000+ experience gifts
    02 We deliver the eVoucher or the Physical box to the recipient
    03 Recipient books the experience and creates unforgettable memories!
    Delivery options
    eVoucher
    • Free
    • Instant delivery
    • Environmentally friendly
    Physical Gift Box
    • $10.00 fee
    • 2-5 business days
    • Shipping Worldwide

    No expiration date
    Easy refund
    Free exchange
    Easy booking
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    Global availability
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