Gain hassle-free entry to the Basilica Cistern, the largest of the hundreds of old cisterns in Istanbul, along with a guided tour in Spanish.
Highlights
Highlights
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Skip the lines and enter the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, an underground reservoir from the Byzantine times, with an expert Spanish-speaking guide.
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Listen to your guide as they explain the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology and the history and culture of the Roman Age.
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With raised wooden platforms and aesthetic vaulted ceilings, admire the amazing Byzantine artwork of this historic cistern.
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Fun Fact: Scenes from the James Bond film 'From Russian with Love' were filmed here.
Inclusions
Inclusions
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Skip-the-line ticket to Basilica Cistern
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Expert Spanish-speaking guide
cancellation policy
cancellation policy
These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Your Experience
Your Experience
Even today, the Basilica Cistern comes across as one of the most magical buildings in all of Istanbul. Interestingly, this large underground water reservoir (one of several hundred hidden ones in the city) has been a filming location for several Hollywood blockbusters.
The Grandeur of Basilica Cistern
Accompanied by your Spanish-speaking guide, skip the lines, stroll along the raised platforms, and take in its beautiful sights. Admire the 336 illuminated marble and granite columns, and get transported back to another era. Descend the 52 stone steps into the entrance of the cistern and admire the Byzantine architecture here. The cistern is surrounded by a firebrick wall coated with a waterproofing mortar. Listen to your expert guide narrate the different building materials used across different eras. See the sunken movie location and the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns including hundreds of illuminated columns and Medusa heads. The artificial freshwater lake, the size of around 2 football fields, is sure to leave you astonished!
Know Before You Go
Know Before You Go
Important Information
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It's recommended to wear comfortable clothes and non-slip shoes.
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The following are allowed during the tour: Outside food & drinks.
My tickets
My tickets
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Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
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Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
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Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your tour to avoid any delays.
Meeting Point
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Meet your guide at Yeşil Ev (Green House)..
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Address: Cankurtaran, Kabasakal Cd. D:5, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.
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Landmark: Located on a side street in Sultanahmet Square, close to Derviş Cafe between the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia.
Get Directions to the Meeting Point
Getting There
By Bus
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The closest bus stop is Sultanahmet Square. It is a quick 3-minute walk to the meeting point.
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Board bus #TB2 to get you there.
By Tram
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The closest tram stop is Sultanahmet. It is a quick 5-minute walk to the meeting point.
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Board tram #T1 to get you there.
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