Visit the Basilica Cistern, an architectural wonder built in the 4th century and expanded in 532 AD. Choose the option that suits your visit:

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 metres 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.

For guided tour options, meet your guide at Dsign Cafe at least 15 minutes before the tour. Look for a white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and istanbul.com logos for easy recognition.

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'll receive your entry ticket with QR code via separate e-mail from the supplier
You'll 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

Meeting point:

Please meet your guide at Dsign Cafe at least 15 minutes before your tour time. Look for a white flag with the Istanbul Tourist Pass® and istanbul.com logos.