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Basilica Cistern skip-the-line entry and audio guided tour

Visit the Basilica Cistern, an architectural wonder constructed in the 4th century and expanded in 532 AD. You can choose between the following options available in the order box:

  • Option 1: Audio-guided tour with skip-the-line entrance
  • Option 2: Guided tour with skip-the-line entrance
  • Option 3: Small-group tour for up to 8 people with skip-the-line entrance
  • Option 4: Private tour for up to 8 people with skip-the-line entrance

Venture into the cathedral-sized Basilica Cistern, established under Emperor Justinian I's reign in 532 A.D. to provide water to the Great Palace. The cistern boasts a capacity of up to 80,000 cubic meters of water, transported through an extensive network of aqueducts from a reservoir near the Black Sea.

Descend fifty-two stone steps leading to the entrance of this historical structure. Learn about how the water supply originates from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Centre in the Belgrade Forest, then journeys through the 971-meter-long Valens Aqueduct and the 115-meter-long Mağlova Aqueduct, both remarkable feats of engineering by Emperor Justinian.

Main features

Free cancellation
Place: Istanbul
Duration: 1 hour
Language: English
Mobile voucher accepted

Additional features

Instant confirmation
Skip the line
Entrance fees included
Guided tour
Private Tour
Smaller group size
Tour with Audioguide
With audioguide

Why you’ll love this…

  • You'll discover the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine water storage facility
  • You'll hear the intriguing tales behind the Medusa heads from Greek mythology
  • You'll learn how the water supply originates from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Centre
  • You'll descend fifty-two stone steps to enter this historical structure with a firebrick wall

Important to know

Know in advance:

  • Option 1 includes an audio guide available in 25 languages, provided by Istanbul Tourist Pass. Guided tour options are conducted in English
  • It is not possible to skip the security lines at the entrance, which are mandatory for all visitors
  • After booking, you will receive your entry ticket with QR code via separate e-mail from the supplier
  • You will need internet connection on your smartphone to retrieve your QR ticket
  • The QR ticket will only be visible when in proximity to the venue

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.


What’s included

  • Audio guide
  • Skip-the-line ticket

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.


Location

Alemdar, Basilica Cistern, Yerebatan Caddesi, Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Provider

City Berry Tourism


Need a hand?

Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET

Phone number: +44 121 468 3145