Basilica Cistern Guided Walking Tour: Skip-The-Line Entry to Istanbul's Largest Cistern

Explore Istanbul’s largest cistern on a guided walking tour. Skip the line, learn about its history, marvel at the architecture, and discover which movie featured this historic place!

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Basilica Cistern - Ever wanted to spontaneously book a tour on the same day you take it? This short walking tour of the Basilica Cistern will have you seeing the largest underground cistern in Istanbul, Turkey – in just two hours! You can also choose from multiple start times for a time that suits you.

The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage facility in Istanbul, Turkey, dating back to the 6th century. It is known for its forest of 336 marble columns and its surreal atmosphere. This impressive site is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and architecture of Istanbul.

In this guided walking tour, you’ll get to skip the long lines at the entrance and go straight inside! You won’t have to waste your time waiting and get to the good stuff. You’ll have a friendly and knowledgeable tour guide who will explain the rich history and significance of the cistern and even help you take your photos.

What's Included
  • Walking tour with skip-the-line benefit
  • English-speaking tour guide
  • Basilica Cistern Entrance fee (Skip the line)
What's Not Included
  • Hotel pick up and drop off
  • Drinking water
  • Meals
  • Personal expenses
Additional Information

Visit the magnificent Basilica Cistern, the largest cistern in Istanbul. Learn about the cistern’s storied history from your guide. Marvel at the architecture, structure, and interiors. Book at any time – last-minute bookings are accepted!

Choose from multiple start time options, a time that is perfect for you. Enjoy the intimacy of a small group tour. Last-minute booking is available for the meeting point option. Find out which movie this historic place belongs to!

Location
German Fountain
At Meydanı Caddesi
Meeting Point: German Fountain (Binbirdirek, At Meydanı Cd, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(2 Ratings)
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1 star
161cristinab
Apr 2, 2024
Kadri was our guardian angel - Kadri was our guide for two days: perfect Italian, very in-depth knowledge of the places, history and culture; but not only that, he was always in contact with us even on other days, always ready to help us with useful advice. Nice person with a profound culture.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
S5923hafrancescop
Sep 27, 2023
Very instructive - This one was a short and sweet tour. It's the guide that really makes all the difference. Ebru shared a lot of info about the mosque that we would have never been able to know without her there.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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