Open today
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
4.2/5
(3,164)
Elena
Patricia
Irene
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Walk through the quiet underground of the Basilica Cistern and see ancient columns and Greek mythology’s infamous Medusa heads.
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Enjoy a relaxing 90-minute cruise along the Bosphorus strait with views of the Dolmabahce palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus bridges.
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Skip entry lines at both landmarks, and use the 5+ language audio guide to learn interesting facts and stories as you explore.
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Basilica Cistern
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Skip-the-line entry
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Downloadable audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Turkish
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Headset
Bosphorus cruise
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Skip-the-line entry at the pier
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90-minute cruise along the strait
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Downloadable audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, Arabic, Turkish, Russian, Italian, Polish, and Chinese
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Meet & greet with a marine officer
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Bosphorus cruise map
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 3,164 reviews4.2
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
1.6K938268153168Guests from Spain, Italy, United States and over 10 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Elena
Jan 2026Verified booking5/5
Paola
Jan 2026Verified booking4/5Juan
Jan 2026Verified booking5/5
Giacomo
Jan 2026Verified booking4/5
Walter
Jan 2026Verified booking5/5
Cover the undergrounds and the waters of Istanbul with a single combo ticket that grants you skip-the-line access at both locations, and multilingual audio guides.
Getting started
Have your tickets ready—either printed or on your device—and make sure to download the audio guides in advance. Wear a light jacket, comfortable shoes, and bring water bottles as both experiences involve walking around.
Basilica Cistern
Spend some time walking into Istanbul’s underground world with skip-the-line entry amidst its stone columns, reused from Roman temples. Look out for the iconic Medusa heads tucked away at the far end and learn their mythological significance from your audio guide.
Bosphorus sightseeing cruise
Explore the highlights between Europe and Asia on a 90-minute cruise along the Bosphorus Strait. Skip the lines at the pier, meet your marine officer, and head straight to the upper deck for the best views of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks—including Dolmabahce Palace, Ortakoy Mosque, Galata Tower, and the Bosphorus bridges.
What to bring
Basilica Cistern:
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Old-school, wired earphones work best in the Basilica Cistern.
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Dress snugly in warm layers. The underground can get very cold at times, so make sure you bring along a light jacket or sweater.
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Download the audio app beforehand to avoid any network glitches at the location.
Bosphorus cruise:
- The cruise is held in all weather conditions and can get windy on the water. Make sure you bring a light jacket or sweater.
What’s not allowed
Basilica Cistern
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Flash photography is not allowed, as it disrupts the lighting and other visitors.
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Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited due to space and safety concerns.
Bosphorus cruise
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Large bags are not allowed on the boat, so it’s best to bring only what you can comfortably carry.
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Selfie sticks are prohibited due to limited space and safety concerns.
Accessibility
Basilica Cistern
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The entrance has a ramp, and a wheelchair platform lift is available at the exit on Alemdar Street.
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Some parts of the Basilica Cistern have uneven floors. Keep this in mind if you are a visitor with mobility difficulties.
Bosphorus cruise
- The cruise is partially wheelchair accessible, but it’s recommended to contact in advance for special arrangements, as there may be limitations due to the boat’s design.
Additional information
Basilica Cistern
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Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check. During the peak summer season (June to August), this can take up to 30 minutes, so plan accordingly.
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Ensure your device has Android version 10 or later to use the audio guide.
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Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.
Bosphorus cruise
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The cruise departs near tram line no. 1 and the funicular, just steps from Dolmabahce Palace. Look for the Istanbul Welcome Card ticket window behind the red petrol station.
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The Bosphorus cruise boats depart every hour. Arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes early to avoid rushing and settle in comfortably.
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Ensure your device has Android 10 or later and download the audio guide before arriving at the Bosphorus pier to save time.
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For the best views, head to the upper deck for an unobstructed look at Istanbul’s landmarks.
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Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photos along the Bosphorus.
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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 points.
Ticket redemption points
- Please check your final voucher for the redemption point details and specific instructions.
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Top things to do in Istanbul
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