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Audio guide
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Skip the long wait lines and head straight into Istanbul's renowned Theodosius Cistern with an audio guide in hand.
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Marvel at the intricate architecture of the underground chambers, which house 32 well-preserved marble columns.
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Learn about the cistern's historical significance and its vital role in the city’s ancient water supply system through your audio guide.
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Enjoy an immersive experience featuring an hourly light and video mapping show that brings the cistern’s history to life.
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Did you know? The Theodosius Cistern once supplied water to the Great Palace, the Nymphaeum, and the Baths of Zeuxippus.
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Entrance ticket to Theodosius Cistern
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Skip-the-line tickets
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Audio guide app
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Hourly light and video-mapping show
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Hotel pickup and drop-off
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Guided tour
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Food and drinks
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You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
How do we collect reviews?
Marta
Apr, 2025Verified booking
I downloaded the entry in the app, the QR did not work and did not give me access, I also downloaded the mail that they sent me that same morning and the access through the QR did not work either, they tried several times and it was denied, I tried all the ways I had between did not work, so very bad experience and I will not hire any service with you again or recommend it obviously.
Alessandra
May, 2025Verified booking
Invalid tickets for admission No audio guide Negative experience
Katerina
Mar, 2024Verified Partner Review
Absolutely GORGEOUS! The lights make the whole place come alive. Audio guide is interesting. Staff were helpful. Go early for less crowd.
Stella
Mar, 2024Verified Partner Review
Breathtaking! The atmosphere is magical with the lights and music. Staff were friendly. Spent about 40 mins just soaking it all in.
Tania
Mar, 2024Verified Partner Review
Absolutely stunning! The light show is magical and the audio guide is easy to follow. Went with friends and we all loved it. Go early to avoid crowds.
Descend beneath Istanbul’s streets for fast-track entry to the Theodosius Cistern, complete with a self-paced audio guide.
Getting started
Arrive at the main entrance and present your QR code ticket for entry. Once inside, you’re free to explore at your own pace with your audio guide.
What to expect
Theodosius Cistern
Built during the late Roman period, the Theodosius Cistern is an ancient underground reservoir that once supplied water to key buildings in Istanbul. It stands as a remarkable example of Byzantine engineering.
Features
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Skip-the-line entry: Bypass the regular queues and head straight inside, giving yourself plenty of time to explore at your leisure.
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Striking architecture: Marvel at rows of marble columns and vaulted ceilings, designed to withstand centuries underground.
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Immersive audio guide: Discover the cistern’s construction, history, and role in Istanbul’s water system through commentary at each key point.
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Underground ambience: Experience the cool space brought to life by an hourly light and video mapping show that highlights the site’s historic features.
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What to bring
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Wear comfortable shoes as there will be some walking involved.
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Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the cistern is underground and may be cooler than the outdoor temperature.
What’s not allowed
- Flash photography is not permitted inside the cistern.
Accessibility
- The experience may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or wheelchair users due to slippery surfaces and required walking.
Additional information
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Photography is allowed, but please refrain from using flash.
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Opening hours are daily from 9am to 7pm, with the last entry at 6pm.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.
Ticket redemption point
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Show your ticket at Cistern of Theodosius.
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Address: Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. No:2/1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.
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