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Columns lit up in the Basilica Cistern
Culture

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets, Istanbul

Basilica Cistern, Sultanahmet, Istanbul, Turkey

Walk among 336 lit marble columns in the Basilica Cistern, Emperor Justinian's 6th-century underground reservoir, to the two Medusa heads – with or without a guide.

Choose tickets₹5,951 per adult

Built in 532 to store water for the Great Palace, the cistern is a forest of columns standing in shallow water, lit in changing colours.

At the far end, two columns rest on carved Medusa heads, one upside-down. Art installations are often on show.

Highlights

  • 336 marble columns
  • The Medusa heads
  • Atmospheric lighting
  • Guided option

Options & prices

8 options to choose from – the first 3 are below.

  • Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide

      • Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
      • Self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German & Italian
      • Instant mobile ticket with all-day validity
      Adult (7 years and above)
      ₹5,951

    • Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Guided Tour

      • 10:00 AM · 12:00 PM and 2 more times
      • 1-hour guided tour of Basilica Cistern
      • Flexible entry with next available slot access
      • Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
      • Expert English-speaking local guide
      • Additional self-guided audio tour in English, Spanish, French, German & Italian
      Adult (7 years and above)
      ₹6,096
      Child (0 – 6 years)
      ₹510

    • Combo: Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern & Blue Mosque Tickets with Audio Guide

        • Skip-the-line entry to Basilica Cistern
        • Skip-the-line entry to Hagia Sophia visiting area
        • Entry to Blue Mosque is free
        • Multilingual audio guide for all 3 landmarks
        Adult (7 years and above)
        ₹9,769

      What's Included

      • Skip-the-line entry
      • Guide (guided option)

      Not Included

      • Hotel transfers

      Know Before You Go

      • Walkways can be damp – wear shoes with grip.
      About 1 hour Basilica Cistern entrance, Sultanahmet
      Cancellation policy: Non-refundable: tickets can't be cancelled or changed once booked.
      Terms & ConditionsShow
      1. Prices are per person (or per group where stated) in Indian Rupees (INR) and include taxes. You pay the total shown at checkout.
      2. Your booking is confirmed by our team within 24 hours. Your e-ticket or voucher is sent by email and WhatsApp – show it on your phone.
      3. Carry your passport and the visa you need for the country. Plantenium can help with your visa – see the Visa page.
      4. Outdoor tours, cruises and flights depend on the weather; if the operator cancels, you get a new date or a refund.