Explore at your pace
Audio guide
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
- Skip the lines and unlock Istanbul’s best with priority access to the Basilica Cistern and Bosphorus pier in one smooth, time-saving combo.
- Sail along the Bosphorus and enjoy stunning perspectives of Istanbul’s historic skyline and landmarks, all from the tranquil waters that divide two continents.
- Hear interesting stories about the Cistern’s eerie underground and the iconic landmarks lining the Bosphorus with an expert audio guide, available in over 10 languages.
- Receive a warm welcome from a marine officer at the pier and get a Bosphorus cruise map to navigate the sights.
Basilica Cistern
- Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
- Audio app for iOS and Android in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, and Turkish
- Headset
Bosphorus sightseeing cruise
- 90-minute Bosphorus cruise
- Skip-the-line access at the pier
- Audio guide for iOS and Android in English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Polish, Arabic, Chinese, and Turkish
- Meet and greet with a marine officer
- Bosphorus cruise map
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
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Guests from United States, Spain, Italy and over 88 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Martin
Apr, 2025Verified booking
We made a combined booking with Fastlane. For Hagia Sophia and Cisterna Basilica, the tickets we sent were immediately our valid tickets. Worked perfectly. Both sights were very beautiful and interesting. At Hagia Sophia, as a non-Muslim you "only" get to the first level and can look down into the whole mosque. Also very impressive, but not really explained beforehand. At the Topkapi Palace there was only one reservation in the mailing, which is easy to overlook, and we only noticed in front of gate 2 (where you need real tickets). We then had to go back to an agency outside Gate 1 so that we could finally get in with a tour lady. It worked but with a certain loss of time. The palace itself was huge and very beautiful. Be sure to book a ticket with harem access (as we had), this part is the highlight of the palace. All in all, a great day with lots of wonderful impressions.
José
Feb, 2025Verified booking
I recommend visiting it but I think the price is a bit high because there are many more mosques and monuments to visit, but you can not leave stambul without visiting it.Julie
Apr, 2025Verified booking
Very easy to access, beautiful historic building amongst a busy city, highly recommend visiting
Carlos
Mar, 2025Verified booking
Fast access without queues and possibility of Audioguide in Spanish offline
Therese
Mar, 2025Verified booking
It is really worth seeing, impressive and amazing.
This combo offers you the chance to skip the lines and explore two of Istanbul's most iconic attractions—the Basilica Cistern and a scenic Bosphorus cruise—all in one seamless, time-saving experience.
Basilica Cistern
Getting started
When you arrive at the Basilica Cistern, look for the Istanbul Welcome Card guide at the entrance. Just show your confirmation to skip ahead of the long ticketing lines. After a quick security check and ID check, you’ll be all set to begin your visit.
What to expect
Built in the 6th century, the Basilica Cistern is an underground marvel that once stored water for the Great Palace of Constantinople. Your audio guide, available in over 10 languages, will guide you through this atmospheric underground world. Learn about the mysterious Medusa columns, the engineering marvel of the cistern, and the secrets it holds beneath the city. Use your phone torch to light the way, and get better photos with flash.
Bosphorus cruise
Getting started
Arrive at the departure point near Dolmabahce Palace and look for the wooden house behind the red petrol station where the Istanbul Welcome Card ticket window is located. Show your confirmation to the marine officer, pass through a quick security check, and board the boat.
What to expect
The Bosphorus cruise takes you across two continents—Europe and Asia. Famous for its stunning palaces, bridges, and vibrant waterfront, this scenic journey offers one of the most picturesque perspectives of the city. Your audio guide will keep you informed in over 10 languages, providing commentary on the landmarks you’ll pass, including the Galata Tower, Dolmabahce Palace, and the Bosphorus Bridge.
What to bring
Basilica Cistern
- Wear comfortable, slip-resistant shoes, as the ground can be uneven inside the Cistern.
- Bring a power bank to keep your phone charged for the audio guide and photos.
Bosphorus cruise
- Bring a light jacket, especially if you’re cruising in the evening or during cooler months, as it can get windy on the water.
- Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during the cruise.
What’s not allowed
Basilica Cistern
- Flash photography is not allowed, as it disrupts the lighting and other visitors.
- Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited due to space and safety concerns.
Bosphorus cruise
- Large bags are not allowed on the boat, so it’s best to bring only what you can comfortably carry.
- Selfie sticks are prohibited due to limited space and safety concerns.
Accessibility
Basilica Cistern
- The entrance has a ramp, and a wheelchair platform lift is available at the exit on Alemdar Street.
- Inside, the walking path is mostly flat but can be uneven or damp in some areas, which may require assistance.
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
- Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check. During the peak summer season, between June and August, this can take up to 30 minutes, so plan accordingly.
- Ensure your device has Android version 10 or later to use the audio guide.
- Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.
Bosphorus cruise
- 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.
- The Bosphorus cruise boats depart every hour. Arrive at least 15 to 20 minutes early to avoid rushing and settle in comfortably.
- Ensure your device has Android 10 or later and download the audio guide before arriving at the Bosphorus pier to save time.
- For the best views, head to the upper deck for an unobstructed look at Istanbul’s landmarks.
- 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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