Mobile Voucher
Fixed day ticket

Basilica Cistern Tickets Highlights

  • Step into the Basilica Cistern, which holds Istanbul's hidden treasure. Prepare to be transported to a world of wonder beneath the city streets.

  • Witness the Medusa head, one of the three Gorgons, with snakes in place of hair that could turn anyone into stone.

  • With raised wooden platforms, vaulted ceilings, and aesthetic beauty, the Basilica Cistern reflects the history and culture of the Roman Age.

  • Get an inverted walk experience, as the water in the cistern is so crystal clear that it reflects the ceiling.

Basilica Cistern Tickets Overview

About Basilica Cistern, Istanbul:

The Basilica Cistern, nestled beneath Istanbul, Turkey, is among the largest of hundreds of ancient cisterns. Its history dates back to the 4th century, initially built to supply water to the Great Palace. From ancient marvels to Hollywood celebrities, the Basilica has witnessed the passage of time. It is adorned with Byzantine artworks, including countless illuminated columns and mysterious Medusa heads.

About Basilica Cistern Tickets, Istanbul:

  • Arrive at the Basilica Cistern and be ready to witness history that dates back to the 4th century.
  • With skip-the-line access, you can get inside by beating the long queues.
  • See the ‘Sunken’ movie location and the largest (and most atmospheric) of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie hidden beneath the city of Istanbul.
  • See unique Byzantine artworks, including hundreds of illuminated columns and Medusa heads.
  • Marvel at the artificial freshwater lake that is the size of around 2 football fields.
  • Revisit the scenes of the 1963 James Bond film ‘From Russia with Love’, as the cistern was used as a location in that movie.

Don't Miss: 

If you want to explore more attractions, book the Istanbul Welcome Card.

Select Package Options

Age Policy:

  • Adults and children will be charged at the same rates but will have to purchase separate tickets.

Timings:

  • Access during operating hours: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price Includes
  • Ticket
    • Entry to Basilica Cistern (General Admission)
    • Flexible entry: Visit any time during the validity period
  • Discover the Basilica Cistern, the largest and most famous of Istanbul’s ancient underground reservoirs.
  • Walk through its atmospheric chambers, supported by 336 marble columns, originally built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Justinian I.
  • Learn about the history, architecture, and significance of this engineering marvel from a professional English-speaking guide.
  • Marvel at highlights such as the Medusa heads and the weeping column, steeped in legend and mystery.
  • A must-visit site offering a unique glimpse into Byzantine ingenuity beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul.


Age Policy:

  • Children under 6 years of age can enter free of charge.
  • Visitors aged 6 years and above will be considered adults and must purchase a ticket.
Price Includes
  • Ticket
    • Entry ticket to the Basilica Cistern
    • Guided tour with an English-speaking guide
    • Skip-the-line access



  • Visit the Basilica Cistern, the largest and most impressive ancient underground water reservoir in Istanbul.
  • Flexible entry: Ticket is valid from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with open-time access during this window.
  • Explore the grand Dolmabahce Palace, an iconic 19th-century Ottoman palace rich in history and opulence.
  • Entry includes access to the Harem section, once reserved for the sultan’s family and court.
  • Learn about the palace’s heritage with a multilingual audio guide included.
  • Attractions can be visited on the same day or separately within the voucher's validity period.


Age Policy:

  • Children under 6 years: Free of charge.
  • Visitors aged 6 years and above: Require an adult ticket.



Price Includes
  • Ticket
    • Entry ticket to Basilica Cistern
    • Entry ticket to Dolmabahce Palace
    • Access to the Harem Section of Dolmabahce Palace
    • Multilingual audio guide for Dolmabahce Palace
    • Flexible visit option: attractions can be visited on the same day or on separate days within the voucher validity

More Details about Basilica Cistern Tickets

Know Before You Go for Basilica Cistern Tickets

  • Fixed day ticket implies that this ticket will be applicable only for the date that you've booked the ticket, it won't be carried forward to the next or any other day.
  • ID proof is mandatory for each visitor at the time of arrival.
  • All foreign nationals must share their passport and visa details at the time of arrival.
  • Latecomers or no-shows can't be refunded.
  • Basilica Cistern is wheelchair accessible. However, there is no wheelchair service available on the site. You need to bring your wheelchair if required.
  • Visitors will find an elevator providing easy access to the sightseeing platform.
  • Age policies change according to the package. Please go through the policies in the package before booking.

Accessibility Options for Basilica Cistern Tickets

  • Wheelchair Accessible