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Basilica Cistern Tickets
Tourist exploring the ancient columns of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.
Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, part of Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern tour.
Pillars inside the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with reflections on the water.
Basilica Cistern column with Medusa carvings, Istanbul.
Renovated Basilica Cistern with illuminated columns, Sultanahmet District, Istanbul.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Tourist admiring the interior of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Marvel at the cistern's vast underground chambers, supported by 336 marble columns, and learn more about its role as a water reservoir for Constantinople from your guide.

  • Skip the lines and explore Basilica Cistern with a local expert or a multilingual audio guide.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour to explore at your own pace or join a local guide for expert commentary and insider stories that bring this underground marvel to life.

  • Upgrade your experience to include a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, allowing you to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in one seamless visit.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern is home to two upside-down Medusa head statues, which are believed to have been repurposed from ancient Roman temples, adding an air of mystery to the site.

More details

  • Marvel at the cistern's vast underground chambers, supported by 336 marble columns, and learn more about its role as a water reservoir for Constantinople from your guide.

  • Skip the lines and explore Basilica Cistern with a local expert or a multilingual audio guide.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour to explore at your own pace or join a local guide for expert commentary and insider stories that bring this underground marvel to life.

  • Upgrade your experience to include a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, allowing you to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in one seamless visit.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern is home to two upside-down Medusa head statues, which are believed to have been repurposed from ancient Roman temples, adding an air of mystery to the site.

from
€32.75
Basilica Cistern columns and Hagia Sophia interior with chandeliers, Istanbul.
Woman exploring the illuminated columns inside the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside-down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia with minarets under clear blue sky in Istanbul.
Mosaic of Virgin Mary and Christ Child with emperors in Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and statues, Istanbul tour.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Sculpture in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, surrounded by ancient columns and water reflections.
Imperial Gate of Hagia Sophia with interior view, Istanbul, Turkey.
Visitors taking a selfie inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, with ornate interior details.
Visitors on a guided tour inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Get convenient skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace, complete with immersive audio guides.

  • Discover the mysterious Basilica Cistern, where you’ll find towering stone columns and the legendary Medusa heads hidden beneath the city streets.

  • Walk into Hagia Sophia and head up to the Upper Gallery for a close-up view of its dazzling golden mosaics.

More details

  • Get convenient skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks at your own pace, complete with immersive audio guides.

  • Discover the mysterious Basilica Cistern, where you’ll find towering stone columns and the legendary Medusa heads hidden beneath the city streets.

  • Walk into Hagia Sophia and head up to the Upper Gallery for a close-up view of its dazzling golden mosaics.

from €66
€62.70

5% off

Topkapi Palace entrance, Hagia Sophia dome, and visitor in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace exterior with tower and arches, Istanbul, Turkey.
Topkapi Palace courtyard with ornate tile walls and arched walkway, Istanbul.
Tourists with backpacks viewing Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, near a fountain.
Interior view of Hagia Sophia's dome and arches in Istanbul, showcasing intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
Pillars inside the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with reflections on the water.
Sculpture in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, surrounded by ancient columns and water reflections.
Topkapi Palace Harem interior with ornate decor and seating area, Istanbul.
Tour group with guide at Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul, near ornate tiled wall.
Imperial Gate of Hagia Sophia with interior view, Istanbul, Turkey.
Tour guide explaining mosaics to visitors inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, part of Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern tour.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket.

  • Explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards, Imperial Harem, and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s mosaics, minarets, and layered history with an included audio guide in 5 languages.

  • Descend into the eerie, columned world of the Basilica Cistern — the city's ancient underground water system. Catch a glimpse of ancient columns and the large, mysterious Medusa’s head.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern's Medusa heads are still a mystery — no one knows where they came from or why they’re sideways.

More details

  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket.

  • Explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards, Imperial Harem, and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s mosaics, minarets, and layered history with an included audio guide in 5 languages.

  • Descend into the eerie, columned world of the Basilica Cistern — the city's ancient underground water system. Catch a glimpse of ancient columns and the large, mysterious Medusa’s head.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern's Medusa heads are still a mystery — no one knows where they came from or why they’re sideways.

from €130.90
€122.07

7% off

Woman exploring the illuminated columns inside the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns in Istanbul, part of Combo Tour with Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Blue Mosque exterior with minarets and domes, Istanbul skyline in background.
Royal Kiosk interior with ornate columns and stained glass in the Blue Mosque, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia with minarets under clear blue sky in Istanbul.
Tour group with guide inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, discussing historical details.
Upside-down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern statue and columns, Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
Interior view of Hagia Sophia's dome and arches in Istanbul, showcasing intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
Interior view of Blue Mosque with ornate chandeliers and stained glass windows, Istanbul, Turkey.
Interior of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, showcasing intricate domed ceiling and ornate designs.
Visitors taking a selfie inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, with ornate interior details.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Extended validity
1 more
  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, an expert guided tour, and multilingual audio guides, all in one day.

More details

  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, an expert guided tour, and multilingual audio guides, all in one day.

from €114
€99

13% off

Hagia Sophia and gardens in Istanbul, view from above, part of Istanbul MegaPass attractions.
Topkapi Palace Gate of Salutation with list of top attractions in Istanbul.
Gate of Salutation at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, with visitors walking nearby.
Hagia Sophia Museum with minarets in Eminonu, Istanbul, under a blue sky.
Basilica Cistern pillars and arches in Istanbul, Turkey.
Dolmabahce Palace entrance with ornate architecture in Istanbul, Turkey.
Hop-on hop-off bus near Istanbul clock tower.
Cruise ship on Bosphorus strait during evening, Istanbul skyline in background.
Istanbul ferry near Haydarpasa railway station on Asian Side walking tour.
Woman relaxing in a Turkish bath with rose petals.
Sufi whirling dervish performing in traditional attire.
Bosphorus yacht cruising past Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul, aerial view.
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Choose 2 to 10 attractions across Istanbul and create your own sightseeing route with one flexible pass that fits your travel style.

  • This pass guarantees a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, and audio guides, and two optional other landmarks or experiences.

  • Get around the city with ease using a 5-ride transport card for trams, metros, and buses, all included with your pass.

  • Enjoy added experiences like a visit to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, dinner cruises and cultural activities such as a hammam or dervish show, all included in your package.

  • Once you book, all attraction tickets land directly in your inbox—no paper, no pickup, just fast and easy access at every site.

More details

  • Choose 2 to 10 attractions across Istanbul and create your own sightseeing route with one flexible pass that fits your travel style.

  • This pass guarantees a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, and audio guides, and two optional other landmarks or experiences.

  • Get around the city with ease using a 5-ride transport card for trams, metros, and buses, all included with your pass.

  • Enjoy added experiences like a visit to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, dinner cruises and cultural activities such as a hammam or dervish show, all included in your package.

  • Once you book, all attraction tickets land directly in your inbox—no paper, no pickup, just fast and easy access at every site.

from
€129
Illuminated columns in the underground Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Visitors observing ancient columns at Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Boy observing illuminated columns in Istanbul's Basilica Cistern.
Basilica Cistern interior with columns and reflective water during guided tour in Istanbul.
Illuminated columns in the underground Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside down Medusa head at Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, with visitors nearby.
Underground Medusa head statue in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and submerged hand sculpture, Istanbul.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
1 hr
  • This ticket offers skip-the-line entry and a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, plus the option to add guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour for a flexible experience, or join a local guide to explore the underground chambers of the Basilica Cistern and learn about its role as a water reservoir in ancient Constantinople.

  • Upgrade to a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, where an expert guide reveals the history behind its stunning mosaics, grand dome, and transition from church to mosque.

  • Add a guided tour of the Blue Mosque to explore its six minarets, grand prayer hall, and intricate Iznik tiles, with insights from an expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern features 336 marble columns, some dating back to Roman times, creating a stunning, otherworldly atmosphere.

More details

  • This ticket offers skip-the-line entry and a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, plus the option to add guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour for a flexible experience, or join a local guide to explore the underground chambers of the Basilica Cistern and learn about its role as a water reservoir in ancient Constantinople.

  • Upgrade to a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, where an expert guide reveals the history behind its stunning mosaics, grand dome, and transition from church to mosque.

  • Add a guided tour of the Blue Mosque to explore its six minarets, grand prayer hall, and intricate Iznik tiles, with insights from an expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern features 336 marble columns, some dating back to Roman times, creating a stunning, otherworldly atmosphere.

from €44
€38

14% off

Basilica Cistern interior and Busforus tour bus in Istanbul.
Guided tour group exploring Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with Medusa head column.
Basilica Cistern statue and columns, Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
Tourists enjoying views of Istanbul from a hop-on hop-off bus near the Bosphorus.
Tourists on Istanbul hop-on hop-off bus with Bosphorus Bridge in background.
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns in Istanbul, part of skip-the-line tour package.
Sculptures inside Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, with illuminated columns.
Woman on Istanbul bus tour photographing Dolmabahçe Clock Tower.
Open-top bus tour in Istanbul passing by historic architecture.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Descend into Basilica Cistern's ancient marvel holding 80,000 cubic meters of water and whispering tales of Roman engineering.

  • For 1500 years, 336 marble pillars and twin Medusa heads have guarded the Cistern, inviting tourists to unlock the mysteries of its underground oasis.

  • Zip between 11 key spots on a hop-on hop-off bus tour running every half hour, from the aromatic Spice Bazaar to Hagia Sophia's grandeur.

  • Let Istanbul's skyline unfold from an open-top deck as you listen to centuries of stories with an audio guide, turning sightseeing into time travel.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern has appeared in various films and books, including Dan Brown's "Inferno".

More details

  • Descend into Basilica Cistern's ancient marvel holding 80,000 cubic meters of water and whispering tales of Roman engineering.

  • For 1500 years, 336 marble pillars and twin Medusa heads have guarded the Cistern, inviting tourists to unlock the mysteries of its underground oasis.

  • Zip between 11 key spots on a hop-on hop-off bus tour running every half hour, from the aromatic Spice Bazaar to Hagia Sophia's grandeur.

  • Let Istanbul's skyline unfold from an open-top deck as you listen to centuries of stories with an audio guide, turning sightseeing into time travel.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern has appeared in various films and books, including Dan Brown's "Inferno".

from €77.75
€73.86

5% off

Galata Tower overlooking Istanbul cityscape, Turkey.
Aerial view of Galata Tower with visitors on the observation deck, Istanbul.
Tourist taking photo from Galata Tower overlooking Istanbul rooftops and Bosphorus.
View of Istanbul skyline and Bosphorus Strait from Galata Tower.
Galata Tower exterior with nearby buildings in Istanbul under a clear blue sky.
Staircase inside Galata Tower with stone walls and arched ceiling, Istanbul.
Ancient wine jugs displayed inside the Galata Tower, Istanbul.
Staircase leading to Galata Tower, Istanbul, with plants and stone architecture.
Young couple walking through a colorful alley in Beyoğlu, Istanbul, with street art and historic buildings.
Galata Tower overlooking Istanbul skyline at sunset, Turkey.
Galata Tower illuminated at night in Beyoglu, Istanbul, surrounded by colorful buildings.
Galata Tower illuminated at night in Beyoglu, Istanbul, with a sunset sky.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • The ticket gets you an an elevator up the Galata Tower, a medieval tower that has stood tall for centuries, it was originally a watchtower.

  • Tickets also have skip-the-line access, so you can avoid long queues, and spend more like at the museum that houses exhibitions about Turkish history.

  • Revel in the panoramic vista of the city and see iconic landmarks - from Topkapi Palace to the Hagia Sophia, and the Suleymaniye Mosque to the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

  • Walk down some of the oldest streets in the Galata quarter of Istanbul as you head to the seaside.

  • Upgrade your ticket to include an audio guide app and listen to fascinating facts and stories about the Galata Tower.

  • Did you know? There is a restaurant on top of the Galata Tower. Indulge in fancy Turkish delicacies at the Galata Restaurant.

  • Skip-the-Line Access – Avoid long queues and enjoy a hassle-free visit to one of the city's top landmarks.

More details

  • The ticket gets you an an elevator up the Galata Tower, a medieval tower that has stood tall for centuries, it was originally a watchtower.

  • Tickets also have skip-the-line access, so you can avoid long queues, and spend more like at the museum that houses exhibitions about Turkish history.

  • Revel in the panoramic vista of the city and see iconic landmarks - from Topkapi Palace to the Hagia Sophia, and the Suleymaniye Mosque to the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn.

  • Walk down some of the oldest streets in the Galata quarter of Istanbul as you head to the seaside.

  • Upgrade your ticket to include an audio guide app and listen to fascinating facts and stories about the Galata Tower.

  • Did you know? There is a restaurant on top of the Galata Tower. Indulge in fancy Turkish delicacies at the Galata Restaurant.

  • Skip-the-Line Access – Avoid long queues and enjoy a hassle-free visit to one of the city's top landmarks.

from
€36
Hot air balloons over Cappadocia landscape at sunrise, showcasing safety measures in place.
Hot air balloon inflating at sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey with rocky landscape.
Hot air balloons over Cappadocia's unique rock formations.
Woman in fedora and shawl gazing at hot air balloons in Cappadocia, Turkey.
Turkish breakfast with fried eggs, olives, bread, and tea.
Hand holding a glass of champagne near a hot air balloon in Cappadocia, Turkey.
Hot air balloons over Cappadocia's unique rock formations, Turkey.
Book now, pay later
3 hr
Transfers included
1 more
  • Soar high above the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia, witnessing the sun's first rays painting the Goreme Valley landscape gold, on a hot air balloon ride.

  • Kickstart your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel, a hot cup of coffee or tea, and some breakfast snacks to fuel your flight.

  • Float over the ancient caves, vineyards orchards, and rock-cut dwellings, soaking in panoramic views.

  • Upon landing, celebrate your journey with a traditional champagne toast, a flight certificate to take home, or a royal medal to take home.

  • Get to choose how intimate your experience is, fly with 28 other adventurers on the standard flight, or limit it to 20 on the premium flight/royal queen flight.

  • Fun Fact: Hidden beneath Cappadocia’s exquisite landscape are over 50 underground cities!

More details

  • Soar high above the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia, witnessing the sun's first rays painting the Goreme Valley landscape gold, on a hot air balloon ride.

  • Kickstart your adventure with a pick-up from your hotel, a hot cup of coffee or tea, and some breakfast snacks to fuel your flight.

  • Float over the ancient caves, vineyards orchards, and rock-cut dwellings, soaking in panoramic views.

  • Upon landing, celebrate your journey with a traditional champagne toast, a flight certificate to take home, or a royal medal to take home.

  • Get to choose how intimate your experience is, fly with 28 other adventurers on the standard flight, or limit it to 20 on the premium flight/royal queen flight.

  • Fun Fact: Hidden beneath Cappadocia’s exquisite landscape are over 50 underground cities!

from
€110

Pro tips to help you make a pick

About Basilica Cistern

Explore the Basilica Cistern, a massive 6th-century Byzantine water reservoir. Emperor Justinian I initiated its construction to ensure water supply to the Great Palace of Constantinople. Its intriguing features, like the Weeping Column and Medusa's Heads, echo Istanbul’s centuries-old history.


Address
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Also known as
Yerebatan Sarnıcı, Sunken Palace, Subterranean Palace
Year opened
532
Founded by
Emperor Justinian
Visitors per year
2200000
Expected wait time - Standard
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?

Why visit Basilica Cistern?

Highlights

Plan your visit

Travel guides and tips

Millions love heading out with us

Maria-Anna Segreto
IT

Maria-anna

Italy
Jul 2025
5/5
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The visit was something spectacular. Beautiful environment, news told in wonderful amniera by our guide (very friendly and nice). After the visit with the guide you can stay as long as you want to continue the visit on your own and take photos.
Lynette G Babilonia
US

Lynette

United States
Jul 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Ticketing was easy, Blue Mosque was beautiful, and our tour guide was excellent. Cenker was very knowledgeable, fun, lively and very accommodating.
Rodolfo Malberti
IT

Rodolfo

Italy
Apr 2025
4/5
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+1 more

All beautiful, especially Cistern and St. Sophia Mosque which, however, due to earthquake ilb23 April, we could see today 24 April. Courtesy and professionalism of the Guide. Thank you
Libin Thomas
IE

Libin

Ireland
Jun 2025
5/5
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Absolutely magical experience! Floating above the fairy chimneys and surreal landscapes of Cappadocia at sunrise felt like stepping into a dream. The views were breathtaking, the ride was smooth, and the crew was professional and friendly throughout. A bucket-list adventure that lived up to the hype — highly recommended!
Rocío Sánchez Montilla
ES

Rocío

Spain
Apr 2025
5/5
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Absolutely the whole experience was excellent. The pilot in charge of our flight explained everything in detail and made the trip truly enjoyable. A dream come true. Thank you!!!!!!
Angelina Purwin
DE

Angelina

Germany
Jun 2025
5/5
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+1 more

Both the Hagia Sophia and the sunken palace were beautiful! It is very worthwhile. And especially for the Hagia Sophia, it's worth buying tickets online in advance to avoid the queue at the ticket office. It's also worth it for the Basilica Cistern, as there are 2 different queues here and the one for the e-tickets was quicker in our case.
JUAN LUIS GARCIA ROSADO DOMINGO
ES

Juan

Spain
Jun 2025
5/5
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+1 more

The architecture of the basilica cistern is amazingly beautiful, very well lit and with a well organized traffic. It has generously met my expectations. But the number of visitors per shift or hour should be reduced.
Janeen Toia Henare
NZ

Janeen

New Zealand
Apr 2025
5/5
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Our guide Daphne was awesome! She knew her history of the Palace, she had a Gsoh to, loved the 1 hour tour with her😊
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