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Basilica Cistern Tickets
Tourist exploring the ancient columns of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.
Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, part of Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern tour.
Pillars inside the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with reflections on the water.
Basilica Cistern column with Medusa carvings, Istanbul.
Renovated Basilica Cistern with illuminated columns, Sultanahmet District, Istanbul.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia in Istanbul with minarets and domes under a blue sky.
Tourist admiring the interior of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Marvel at the cistern's vast underground chambers, supported by 336 marble columns, and learn more about its role as a water reservoir for Constantinople from your guide.

  • Skip the lines and explore Basilica Cistern with a local expert or a multilingual audio guide.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour to explore at your own pace or join a local guide for expert commentary and insider stories that bring this underground marvel to life.

  • Upgrade your experience to include a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, allowing you to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in one seamless visit.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern is home to two upside-down Medusa head statues, which are believed to have been repurposed from ancient Roman temples, adding an air of mystery to the site.

More details

  • Marvel at the cistern's vast underground chambers, supported by 336 marble columns, and learn more about its role as a water reservoir for Constantinople from your guide.

  • Skip the lines and explore Basilica Cistern with a local expert or a multilingual audio guide.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour to explore at your own pace or join a local guide for expert commentary and insider stories that bring this underground marvel to life.

  • Upgrade your experience to include a guided tour of Hagia Sophia with skip-the-line access, allowing you to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks in one seamless visit.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern is home to two upside-down Medusa head statues, which are believed to have been repurposed from ancient Roman temples, adding an air of mystery to the site.

from
€35.90
Illuminated columns in the underground Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Boy tourist admiring illuminated columns in Istanbul cistern.
Illuminated columns inside Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, reflecting on water.
Glass sculptures illuminated in the Basilica Cistern interior, Istanbul.
Visitors exploring the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, viewing ancient columns and reflections in water.
Upside down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Visitors exploring the Basilica Cistern with illuminated columns in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and modern sculpture.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
45 min
1 more
  • Enter the Basilica Cistern after dark with fast-track access for a quieter, more atmospheric visit far from daytime crowds.

  • Listen to a multilingual audio guide that brings the cistern’s architecture, history, and mythic Medusa columns to life.

  • Walk among 336 ancient marble columns in the underground reservoir commissioned by Emperor Justinian I and beautifully lit for nighttime viewing.

More details

  • Enter the Basilica Cistern after dark with fast-track access for a quieter, more atmospheric visit far from daytime crowds.

  • Listen to a multilingual audio guide that brings the cistern’s architecture, history, and mythic Medusa columns to life.

  • Walk among 336 ancient marble columns in the underground reservoir commissioned by Emperor Justinian I and beautifully lit for nighttime viewing.

from
€69.90
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns and aerial view of Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey.
Woman exploring the illuminated columns inside the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside-down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia with minarets under clear blue sky in Istanbul.
Mosaic of Virgin Mary and Christ Child with emperors in Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and statues, Istanbul tour.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Sculpture in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, surrounded by ancient columns and water reflections.
Imperial Gate of Hagia Sophia with interior view, Istanbul, Turkey.
Visitors taking a selfie inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, with ornate interior details.
Visitors on a guided tour inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Get skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with a single cost-effective combo, including immersive audio guides.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern and wander among its eerie marble columns, spotting the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Marvel at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking blend of Byzantine and Ottoman design, and visit the Upper Gallery for views of its golden mosaics.

  • Explore both sites at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide that brings centuries of history to life.

More details

  • Get skip-the-line tickets to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with a single cost-effective combo, including immersive audio guides.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern and wander among its eerie marble columns, spotting the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Marvel at Hagia Sophia, a breathtaking blend of Byzantine and Ottoman design, and visit the Upper Gallery for views of its golden mosaics.

  • Explore both sites at your own pace with a multilingual audio guide that brings centuries of history to life.

from €70.40
€67.07

5% off

Topkapi Palace entrance, Hagia Sophia dome, and visitor in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Topkapi Palace exterior with tower and arches, Istanbul, Turkey.
Topkapi Palace courtyard with ornate tile walls and arched walkway, Istanbul.
Tourists with backpacks viewing Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, near a fountain.
Interior view of Hagia Sophia's dome and arches in Istanbul, showcasing intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
Pillars inside the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul with reflections on the water.
Sculpture in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, surrounded by ancient columns and water reflections.
Topkapi Palace Harem interior with ornate decor and seating area, Istanbul.
Tour group with guide at Topkapi Palace Museum, Istanbul, near ornate tiled wall.
Imperial Gate of Hagia Sophia with interior view, Istanbul, Turkey.
Tour guide explaining mosaics to visitors inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, part of Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern tour.
Illuminated sculptures resembling jellyfish in the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket, complete with an included audio guide.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, the city’s ancient underground water system, and catch a glimpse of the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine mosaics, minarets, and layered Ottoman history in the famous Upper Gallery area.

  • For more history, continue to explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards, Imperial Harem, and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern’s Medusa heads remain a mystery. No one knows where they came from or why they are sideways!

More details

  • Skip the line at three iconic Istanbul landmarks with a single discounted combo ticket, complete with an included audio guide.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, the city’s ancient underground water system, and catch a glimpse of the mysterious Medusa heads.

  • Admire Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine mosaics, minarets, and layered Ottoman history in the famous Upper Gallery area.

  • For more history, continue to explore Topkapi Palace’s courtyards, Imperial Harem, and Ottoman treasures at your own pace.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern’s Medusa heads remain a mystery. No one knows where they came from or why they are sideways!

from €129.40
€124.88

3% off

Interior of Dolmabahce Palace harem with ornate chandelier and seating area.
Exit gate of Dolmabahce Palace with ornate architecture, Istanbul, Turkey.
Sufera Hall interior with ornate columns and luxurious furnishings, Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul, Turkey.
Tourist exploring the ancient columns of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and statues, Istanbul tour.
Dolmabahçe Palace exterior with gardens, Istanbul.
Walkway through Dolmabahçe Palace gardens with visitors and large tree, Istanbul.
Sculpture among columns in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • See Istanbul’s imperial glory and ancient marvels with a time-saving combo that lets you move past the crowds with ease.

  • Wander through the Dolmabahçe Palace as its glittering halls, grand staircases, and waterfront gardens showcase the elegance of the late Ottoman era.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, where forest-like columns, gentle lighting, and the enigmatic Medusa heads create a uniquely haunting atmosphere.

  • Enhance your visit with in-depth audio storytelling, offering clear explanations of palace traditions, imperial rituals, ancient engineering, and the legends that shaped each site.

  • Enjoy seamless planning with mobile tickets, flexible timing, and two attractions located close enough to explore comfortably in one smooth route.

More details

  • See Istanbul’s imperial glory and ancient marvels with a time-saving combo that lets you move past the crowds with ease.

  • Wander through the Dolmabahçe Palace as its glittering halls, grand staircases, and waterfront gardens showcase the elegance of the late Ottoman era.

  • Descend into the Basilica Cistern, where forest-like columns, gentle lighting, and the enigmatic Medusa heads create a uniquely haunting atmosphere.

  • Enhance your visit with in-depth audio storytelling, offering clear explanations of palace traditions, imperial rituals, ancient engineering, and the legends that shaped each site.

  • Enjoy seamless planning with mobile tickets, flexible timing, and two attractions located close enough to explore comfortably in one smooth route.

from €84.40
€75.90

10% off

Woman exploring the illuminated columns inside the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns in Istanbul, part of Combo Tour with Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Blue Mosque exterior with minarets and domes, Istanbul skyline in background.
Courtyard of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul with visitors exploring the historic architecture.
Hagia Sophia with minarets under clear blue sky in Istanbul.
Tour group with guide inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, discussing historical details.
Small group on a guided tour near the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Upside-down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern statue and columns, Istanbul Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.
Interior view of Blue Mosque with ornate chandeliers and stained glass windows, Istanbul, Turkey.
Royal Kiosk interior with ornate columns and stained glass in the Blue Mosque, Istanbul.
Visitors taking a selfie inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, with ornate interior details.
Interior view of Hagia Sophia's dome and arches in Istanbul, showcasing intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
Book now, pay later
3 hr
  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, an expert guided tour, and multilingual audio guides, all in one day.

More details

  • Begin your experience at the Blue Mosque, where over 20,000 hand-painted tiles and stained-glass windows create a calm, glowing space of worship and design.

  • Take in the grandeur of Hagia Sophia’s Upper Gallery, look up at its golden mosaics, and uncover centuries of imperial history with your audio guide.

  • Explore the hidden terrains of the Basilica Cistern, where rows of ancient columns stand in water and the haunting Medusa heads wait in the shadows.

  • Enjoy the comfort of exploring Istanbul’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line tickets, an expert guided tour, and multilingual audio guides, all in one day.

from
€87
Illuminated columns in the underground Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Visitors observing ancient columns at Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside down Medusa head column in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Boy tourist admiring illuminated columns in Istanbul cistern.
Basilica Cistern interior with columns and reflective water during guided tour in Istanbul.
Illuminated columns in the underground Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Upside down Medusa head at Basilica Cistern, Istanbul, with visitors nearby.
Underground Medusa head statue in Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and submerged hand sculpture, Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia exterior with minarets in Istanbul, surrounded by greenery.
Hagia Sophia interior with ornate dome and Islamic calligraphy, Istanbul, Turkey.
Blue Mosque courtyard with visitors, Istanbul, part of guided tour and skip-the-line tickets combo.
Interior of the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, showcasing intricate domed ceiling and ornate designs.
Book now, pay later
1 hr
  • This ticket offers skip-the-line entry and a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, plus the option to add guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour for a flexible experience, or join a local guide to explore the underground chambers of the Basilica Cistern and learn about its role as a water reservoir in ancient Constantinople.

  • Upgrade to a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, where an expert guide reveals the history behind its stunning mosaics, grand dome, and transition from church to mosque.

  • Add a guided tour of the Blue Mosque to explore its six minarets, grand prayer hall, and intricate Iznik tiles, with insights from an expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern features 336 marble columns, some dating back to Roman times, creating a stunning, otherworldly atmosphere.

More details

  • This ticket offers skip-the-line entry and a guided tour of the Basilica Cistern, plus the option to add guided tours of Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

  • Choose a self-guided audio tour for a flexible experience, or join a local guide to explore the underground chambers of the Basilica Cistern and learn about its role as a water reservoir in ancient Constantinople.

  • Upgrade to a guided tour of Hagia Sophia, where an expert guide reveals the history behind its stunning mosaics, grand dome, and transition from church to mosque.

  • Add a guided tour of the Blue Mosque to explore its six minarets, grand prayer hall, and intricate Iznik tiles, with insights from an expert guide.

  • Fun fact: The Basilica Cistern features 336 marble columns, some dating back to Roman times, creating a stunning, otherworldly atmosphere.

from
€38
Hagia Sophia with minarets under a blue sky in Istanbul, Turkey.
Tour guide explaining mosaics to visitors inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul.
Gate of Salutation at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, with gardens and visitors.
Visitors exploring ornate tilework in Topkapi Palace Museum's Harem, Istanbul.
Woman exploring the illuminated columns inside the Basilica Cistern, Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern interior with illuminated columns and statues, Istanbul tour.
Interior view of Hagia Sophia's dome and arches in Istanbul, showcasing intricate mosaics and calligraphy.
Tour group with guide inside Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, discussing historical details.
Tour group exploring Topkapi Palace courtyard in Istanbul.
Tour group with guide at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, viewing historical artifacts.
Basilica Cistern interior with columns and reflective water during guided tour in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern's illuminated columns and arches in Istanbul.
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
2 hr
1 more
  • Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern to start your guided tour, valid for 3 days.

  • Reap the benefits of a guided tour included in this ticket which can be availed for 3 museums.

  • Choose to visit the sites on one single day or on separate days with the flexibility of this ticket.

  • Feel free to explore the museums after the guided tour and learn interesting facts about them with the help of the audio guides available in 9 different languages.

More details

  • Skip the lines at Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern to start your guided tour, valid for 3 days.

  • Reap the benefits of a guided tour included in this ticket which can be availed for 3 museums.

  • Choose to visit the sites on one single day or on separate days with the flexibility of this ticket.

  • Feel free to explore the museums after the guided tour and learn interesting facts about them with the help of the audio guides available in 9 different languages.

from
€78
Hagia Sophia and gardens in Istanbul, view from above, part of Istanbul MegaPass attractions.
Topkapi Palace Gate of Salutation with list of top attractions in Istanbul.
Gate of Salutation at Topkapi Palace, Istanbul, with visitors walking nearby.
Hagia Sophia Museum with minarets in Eminonu, Istanbul, under a blue sky.
Basilica Cistern pillars and arches in Istanbul, Turkey.
Dolmabahce Palace entrance with ornate architecture in Istanbul, Turkey.
Hop-on hop-off bus near Istanbul clock tower.
Cruise ship on Bosphorus strait during evening, Istanbul skyline in background.
Istanbul ferry near Haydarpasa railway station on Asian Side walking tour.
Woman relaxing in a Turkish bath with rose petals.
Sufi whirling dervish performing in traditional attire.
Bosphorus yacht cruising past Dolmabahçe Palace, Istanbul, aerial view.
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Choose 2 to 10 attractions across Istanbul and create your own sightseeing route with one flexible pass that fits your travel style.

  • This pass guarantees a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, audio guides, and two optional other landmarks or experiences.

  • Get around the city with ease using a 5-ride transport card for trams, metros, and buses, all included with your pass.

  • Enjoy added experiences like a visit to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, dinner cruises and cultural activities such as a hammam or dervish show, all included in your package.

  • Once you book, all attraction tickets land directly in your inbox. No paper, no pickup; just fast and easy access at every site.

More details

  • Choose 2 to 10 attractions across Istanbul and create your own sightseeing route with one flexible pass that fits your travel style.

  • This pass guarantees a public transport card, guided Blue Mosque tour, 90-min Bosphorus cruise, audio guides, and two optional other landmarks or experiences.

  • Get around the city with ease using a 5-ride transport card for trams, metros, and buses, all included with your pass.

  • Enjoy added experiences like a visit to Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Palace, dinner cruises and cultural activities such as a hammam or dervish show, all included in your package.

  • Once you book, all attraction tickets land directly in your inbox. No paper, no pickup; just fast and easy access at every site.

from
€129

Pro tips to help you make a pick

About Basilica Cistern

Explore the Basilica Cistern, a massive 6th-century Byzantine water reservoir. Emperor Justinian I initiated its construction to ensure water supply to the Great Palace of Constantinople. Its intriguing features, like the Weeping Column and Medusa's Heads, echo Istanbul’s centuries-old history.


Address
Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Also known as
Yerebatan Sarnıcı, Sunken Palace, Subterranean Palace
Year opened
532
Founded by
Emperor Justinian
Visitors per year
2200000
Expected wait time - Standard
30-60 mins (Peak), 0-30 mins (Off Peak)
Did you know?

Why visit Basilica Cistern?

Highlights

Plan your visit

Travel guides and tips

Millions love heading out with us

Chad Hainline

Chad

Oct 2025
5/5

review-image
Why does anyone go to see a major attraction without skip the line tickets? We walked straight in, bypassing a long line waiting and enjoyed the cistern. It is a beautiful interior with a nice mood changing scene lighting as you walk above the water. Magical!

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets

Kiril Pavlov
GB

Kiril

United Kingdom
Oct 2025
5/5

review-image
Was amazing and glorious, I never seen before. It was a very nice experience, this is the most wonderful experience with a loved one.

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets

Hans Dick Terhenne
NL

Hans

Netherlands
Oct 2025
5/5

review-image
Great tour with Alex , inspire of large group. Took his time to show and explain special places. Fabulous amount of history and great places.

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

Annegret Richers

Annegret

Sep 2025
5/5

review-image
Our guide Haluk was very competent, helpful and friendly. Everything went very smoothly. The fast-lane tickets are absolutely worth the money.

Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

Kathryn Morley
GB

Kathryn

United Kingdom
Sep 2025
4/5

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Being able to skip the ticket line was very good. Sadly, the audio guides just didn't work on either of the devices we had, despite them saying they had been downloaded. We had one excellent guide but one who just seemed bored!

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

NEUSA ARAUJO DA SILVA
BR

Neusa

Brazil
Sep 2025
5/5

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I found the activity to be an immersion in Ottoman Turkish culture. The experience of buying the tickets was excellent. Everything went according to plan, from payment to receipt of the tickets.

Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions

Karl Frederick Myers
AU

Karl

Australia
Sep 2025
4/5

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+2 more

The smoothness of the whole process. I want to the booth, and told just to go to the entrance. Then a wonderful two hours spent admiring the majestic view and the gentle descent listening to the audio guide.

Galata Tower Entry Tickets

Matthew Alexander Moore
ZA

Matthew

South Africa
Sep 2025
5/5

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+1 more

The Basilica Cistern is amazing to see in person. I had no idea such a vast cavern had been right beneath my feet. Our tour guide was wonderful. Her English was perfect and she really helped us to appreciate the history of the place.

Basilica Cistern Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

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