Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Entry and Audio Guided Tour
Why you’ll love this…
- Discover the 4th-century Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine water storage facility
- Hear the intriguing tales behind the Medusa heads from Greek mythology
- Marvel at the cathedral-sized cistern's capacity of up to 80,000 cubic meters of water
- Learn how the water supply originates from the Eğrikapı Water Distribution Centre
- Descend fifty-two stone steps to enter this historical structure with a firebrick wall
What to expect
You can choose between the following options available in the order box: Audio-guided tour with Skip the ticket line entrance (Option 1), Guided tour with Skip-the-line entrance (Option 2), Small-group guided tour with Skip-the-line entrance (Option 3) that includes entrance with small-group tour for up to 8 people, or the Private tour with entrance (Option 4), for up to 8 people.
Option 1: Audio-guided tour with Skip the ticket line entrance
Option 2: Guided tour with Skip-the-line entrance
Option 3: Small-group guided tour with Skip-the-line entrance
Option 4: Private tour with Entrance
Visit the Basilica Cistern, an architectural wonder constructed in the 4th century and expanded in 532 AD.
Venture into this cathedral-sized cistern, established under Emperor Justinian I's reign in 532 A.D. Its purpose was to provide water to the Great Palace. The cistern boasts a capacity of up to 80,000 cubic meters 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. It then journeys through the 971-meter-long Valens Aqueduct and the 115-meter-long Mağlova Aqueduct, both remarkable feats of engineering by Emperor Justinian.
Important to know
Know in advance:
- After booking, you will receive your entry ticket QR ticket via separate e-mail from supplier
- The QR ticket will only be visible when in proximity to the venue
- You will need internet connection on your smartphone to retrieve your QR ticket
- It is not possible to skip the security lines
- There could be a line at the entrance and is mandatory for all visitors
What’s included
Audio guide
Skip-the-line ticket
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.
Booking fee
Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.
Provider
City Berry Tourism
Need a hand?
Would you like some help making a booking? Or perhaps you just want to ask a few questions. Whatever the reason, don't hesitate to get in touch.
Opening hours: Our team is available from 10.00 to 18.00 CET
Phone number: +44 121 468 3145
You might also like
Nat Geo Day Tour: Istanbul's Finest Coffee and Confectionery
Explore Istanbul's rich heritage on a guided walking tour, where you'll visit esteemed gourmet institutions to savor their delicacies and uncover the fascinating history of Turkish coffee and culture.
en
Nat Geo Day Tour: Artists and Artisans in Istanbul with Hands-on Art Class
Immerse yourself in Istanbul's vibrant heritage with a touch of trendiness in the hip Fener-Balat district. Discover the roots of the area and join in a workshop before trying mantı, a local delicacy.
en
Istanbul Classics - Half Day Morning Tour
Get all the best information for the Istanbul Classic half day morning tour in Turkey and book your tickets, at official rates. Get informed, plan and book your Istanbul tours.
en, fr, es, de
Istanbul Ottoman Relics afternoon tour
Discover the best of Istanbul's Ottoman relics with this half day tour. Book your spot on Musement today to visit Tokapi Palace and see what it has to offer.
en, fr, es, de
Istanbul Byzantine & Ottoman Relics - Day Tour
Get all the best information for the Byzantine & Ottoman Relics day tour in Turkey and book your tickets, at official rates. Get informed, plan and book your Istanbul tours.
en, fr, es, ar, de
Istanbul and Bosphorus cruise on private boat - half day morning tour
Experience the magic of Istanbul in the morning: Spice bazaar, Golden Horn, Balat, Bosporus Cruise, guided tour and more. Book now with Musement!
en, fr, es, de
Istanbul and Bosphorus cruise on private boat - half day afternoon tour
Discover the beauty of Istanbul with a tour to the Golden Horn and a private cruise along the Bosphorus, the waterway between Europe and Asia.
en, fr, es, de
Istanbul to Princes Islands Cruise - Full Day Tour
Discover the beautiful Princes Islands with a cruise from Istanbul, a carriage ride and lovely lunch. Book your ticket now with Musement!
en, it, fr, es, de
Culinary walk with Kadikoy (Chalcedon) treasures
Take a delicious culinary walk with your guide as you explore the Kadikoy region of the city. Try Turkish delicacies and enjoy a full traditional meal.
en
Gallipoli and Anzac tour from Istanbul
Discover Gallipoli on this full day guided visit. Learn all about WWI and WWII and visit the numerous memorials in Gallipoli. Book your visit today on Musement.
en
