Very interesting
Jean-pierre
On this tour of the Basilica Cistern, we'll visit this authentic gem in Istanbul and see how its columns store water. Welcome to the Submerged Palace!
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity starts. Any cancellations after this time or no-shows on the day will not be refunded.
Busphours Double Decker Bus Station
You can book up to 15 minutes in advance if there are any seats left. Book now and guarantee your spot.
If you have other questions, contact us
Anonyme
Strasbourh, FranceVery good. The meeting point wasn't obvious, but the skip-the-line option was very convenient. Our guide provided good explanations.
Jean-pierre
Ajaccio, FranceVery interesting
Claire-lise
Genève, SwitzerlandMagic
Joana Curvelo
United KingdomPunctual and organised. The guide stayed with us for maximum 15min and explained quickly about the cistern. Nothing extraordinary but gave us an idea ...
On this tour of the Basilica Cistern, we'll visit this authentic gem in Istanbul and see how its columns store water. Welcome to the Submerged Palace!
At the time indicated, we'll meet at Busphours Double Decker Byus Station and start a tour that will take us underneath Istanbul. Did you know that the city is hiding a palace underground? Let's explore the Basilica Cistern!
In the heart of the historic centre of Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern dates back to the year 532 and was built under Emperor Justinian I to provide clean drinking water to Santa Sofia. Once inside, we'll admire its impressive 336 columns, distributed along never-ending passages. You'll be amazed!
As we explore the Submerged Palace, we'll tell you lots of facts about this interesting site, such as the purpose of these water cisterns during the Roman Empire and the different uses they had during the Ottoman Empire. Additionally, we'll pay special attention to 2 of the most important elements of the Basilica Cistern: the head of Medusa and the Weeping Column. Why are they so special?
To end this visit, we'll explain the relationship this tourist site in Istanbul has with Hollywood films that have been filmed here, such as James Bond, From Russia with Love or Inferno.
After exploring the Basilica Cistern for 25 minutes, we'll end this guided tour.
If you would like to visit the monument on your own with an audio guide in English, you can book tickets to the Basilica Cistern with an audio guide.
You can book up to 15 minutes in advance if there are any seats left. Book now and guarantee your spot.
If you have other questions, contact us
Busphours Double Decker Bus Station
Anonyme
Strasbourh, FranceVery good. The meeting point wasn't obvious, but the skip-the-line option was very convenient. Our guide provided good explanations.
Jean-pierre
Ajaccio, FranceVery interesting
Claire-lise
Genève, SwitzerlandMagic
Joana Curvelo
United KingdomPunctual and organised. The guide stayed with us for maximum 15min and explained quickly about the cistern. Nothing extraordinary but gave us an idea ...
Free cancellation
Free cancellation