Open today
Explore at your pace
Audio guide
4.1/5
(7,306)
Giulia
Alexandros
Peter
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Save time and money with skip-the-line entry to both Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern in one easy, money-saving combo.
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Dive into history with detailed audio guides available in multiple languages that bring Istanbul’s treasures vividly to life.
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Step inside the Harem’s private quarters for a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of Ottoman sultans.
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Descend into the Basilica Cistern’s underground chamber to admire ancient columns and mysterious Medusa heads.
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Enjoy a hassle-free visit with seamless access and the freedom to explore both sites at your own pace.
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Basilica Cistern
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Skip-the-line entry
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Audio guide in English, Spanish, French, German, and Italian
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Free time to explore
Topkapi Palace
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Skip-the-line entry
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Skip-the-line entry to Harem Museum
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Audio guide in English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish
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Free time to explore
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These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
- 7,306 reviews4.1
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.
4K1.5K748433527Guests from Spain, Italy, United States and over 10 countries have loved this experienceWhat our guests say
Armand
Nov 2025Verified booking5/5
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Nov 2025Verified booking4/5
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Pick this unbeatable combo for easy access to two of Istanbul’s top must-see attractions, saving you time and money.
Basilica Cistern
Begin your 30-minute journey into the mysterious world beneath Istanbul at the Basilica Cistern, also called Yerebatan Sarnıcı. Descend 52 steps into this ancient underground reservoir, where 336 marble columns stand in 12 perfectly arranged rows. Built by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century to supply water to Constantinople, the cistern stretches across an area the size of two football fields. As you explore, spot the famous 'Hen’s Eye' column and hear the captivating myth of the Medusa heads from Greek legend. Fun fact: parts of the first James Bond movie, From Russia with Love, were filmed right here. With the included audio guide, you’ll get detailed explanations about each column’s significance, the story behind the Medusa heads, and the exact filming locations, enriching your self-paced exploration.
Topkapi Palace
With your skip-the-line tickets, avoid the crowds and head straight to the entrance of the magnificent Topkapi Palace. Once home to Ottoman sultans, this sprawling complex is now a museum showcasing imperial treasures and stories. Your guide will bring the palace’s vibrant history to life, sharing tales behind its 30,000 archived documents, the sacred relics it houses, and the sprawling imperial kitchens. Admire exquisite Chinese porcelain and step out onto the palace terraces for breathtaking views of the Golden Horn. The included audio guide lets you dive even deeper, offering detailed stories about the Ottoman relics, palace architecture, and daily life in the sultan’s court.
What to bring
Basilica Cistern
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Carry a light jacket, especially in summer, as the underground cistern remains cool.
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Wear comfortable, closed shoes with a grip as the site can be slippery or uneven.
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Wired headphones are best for audio guides; Bluetooth often doesn’t work well underground.
Topkapi Palace
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Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot of ground to cover, including cobblestone areas.
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Carry a bottle of water, especially in warmer months, as much of the site is outdoors.
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Use wired headphones for audio tours, signal can be weak inside thick-walled sections.
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Bring sunscreen or a hat, as many courtyards and waiting areas are exposed to the sun.
What's not allowed
Basilica Cistern
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Flash photography is not permitted due to the sensitive lighting design.
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Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited for safety and space concerns.
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You cannot eat or drink inside the cistern.
Topkapi Palace
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Flash photography is prohibited in areas like the Treasury and Sacred Relics Room.
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Eating and drinking are not allowed inside the palace buildings.
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Touching exhibits or artifacts is strictly prohibited.
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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Inside, the walking path is mostly flat but can be uneven or damp in some areas, which may require assistance.
Topkapi Palace
- While some outdoor areas and courtyards are accessible, full wheelchair accessibility is limited due to cobblestone paths, stairs, and narrow corridors, especially in the Harem section.
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.
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Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.
Topkapi Palace
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Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the courtyards and inside highlights properly.
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The Treasury and Sacred Relics Room are often crowded. Arrive early in the day or in the late afternoon hours to enjoy a quieter ambiance.
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Meeting point
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Meet your guide at Chimney Bistro.
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Address: Cankurtaran, Soğuk Çeşme Sk. No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.
Get directions to the meeting point
Important Information
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Please download the audio app before your tour.
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Do not forget to bring your earphones.
Instructions for Audio Guide
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Step 1: Click on the Audio guide link to be redirected to your Audio guide.
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Step 2: Press "Start Your Tour" and select your tour language.
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Step 3: Tap the points on the map and explore at your own pace.
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Once downloaded with an internet connection, you can explore your audio tour offline.
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