Combo (Save 8%): Topkapi Palace + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

What to bring

Basilica Cistern

• Carry a light jacket, especially in summer, as the underground cistern remains cool.

• Wear comfortable, closed shoes with a grip as the site can be slippery or uneven.

• Wired headphones are best for audio guides; Bluetooth often doesn’t work well underground.

Topkapi Palace

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; there’s a lot of ground to cover, including cobblestone areas.

• Carry a bottle of water, especially in warmer months, as much of the site is outdoors.

• Use wired headphones for audio tours, signal can be weak inside thick-walled sections.

• Bring sunscreen or a hat, as many courtyards and waiting areas are exposed to the sun.

What's not allowed

Basilica Cistern

• Flash photography is not permitted due to the sensitive lighting design.

• Tripods and selfie sticks are prohibited for safety and space concerns.

• You cannot eat or drink inside the cistern.

Topkapi Palace

• Flash photography is prohibited in areas like the Treasury and Sacred Relics Room.

• Eating and drinking are not allowed inside the palace buildings.

• Touching exhibits or artifacts is strictly prohibited.

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.

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

• Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket queue, but all visitors must go through a security check.

• Arrive early in the morning or visit in the evening to avoid crowds from cruise ship tours.

Topkapi Palace

• Plan for at least 2 to 3 hours to explore the courtyards and inside highlights properly.

• 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.

• Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

• Please arrive at the meeting point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.

• Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.

Meeting point

• Meet your guide at Chimney Bistro.

• Address: Cankurtaran, Soğuk Çeşme Sk. No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Get directions to the meeting point

Important Information

• Please download the audio app before your tour.

• Do not forget to bring your earphones.

Instructions for Audio Guide

• Step 1: Click on the Audio guide link to be redirected to your Audio guide.

• Step 2: Press "Start Your Tour" and select your tour language.

• Step 3: Tap the points on the map and explore at your own pace.

• Once downloaded with an internet connection, you can explore your audio tour offline.