Basilica Cistern Tickets + Audio Guide
Visit to the Basilica Cistern
Istanbul is home to countless architectural gems, and the Basilica Cistern is undoubtedly one of them. Located in the heart of the city, the Sunken Palace is essential for discovering the history of ancient Constantinople through its underground corridors lined with columns that will leave you completely speechless.
With this ticket to the Basilica Cistern, you'll have the opportunity to enter after the sun sets over Istanbul. Thanks to the audio guide in English, you'll learn how Emperor Justinian I ordered its construction in 532 AD to provide drinking water to Hagia Sophia. During the tour, you'll admire its iconic 336 columns that are spread out along endless corridors.
The Basilica Cistern also holds countless fascinating details, from its Roman reservoirs to the intricate features of its columns. You’ll also discover how the Ottoman Empire used this Sunken Palace and learn about the films shot here, including Inferno and From Russia with Love.
Ticket Types & Schedules
Although you select a specific time when making your reservation, you can access the Basilica Cistern at any time within the following hours:
- Daytime admission: from 9 am to 6:30 pm
- Evening admission: from 7:30 pm to 10 pm
Please note that a visit to the Basilica Cistern usually lasts approximately 40 minutes, although you can stay inside for as long as you like.
More Information
Language
The activity takes place with an audioguide in English, Spanish, French and Italian.
Included
Admission to the Basilica Cistern
Audio guide in English
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis, we offer tickets at official prices, with full transparency and exclusive benefits for our users. In a few exceptional cases (less than 5%), these rates may be slightly higher than the ticket office price as they include booking fees and/or audio guides. The advantage is that your spot is guaranteed, and you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket office(although there may still be wait time at security and to access the monument).
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Is a minimum number of participants required?
A - This activity requires a minimum of 1 participants. Should this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Royal Tours Tickets Corporate name: Mega Travel Group Turizm ve Tic. Ltd. Sti. Registered Office: Gümüşsuyu Mah. Inönü Cd Melek Apt. No: 11/2 34437 Beyoglu, Istanbul, Turkey Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 7351975533 Contact information Email: deniz@cosmic-tickets-audios.com Phone: +905427178837
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Cancellations
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