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Results for “Basilica Cistern” in Istanbul

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24 tours & activities

Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Private Tour Best Highlights (opens in a new tab)

41 40 min

By Septillion Travel Agency TÜRSAB A-Class License No: 18212 1. Skip the Long Ticket Lines – Fast, smooth entry with no waiting and no crowds. 2. Luxury VIP Private Experience – Enjoy the Basilica Cistern in a calm, exclusive atmosphere. 3. Licensed Expert Guide – Nationwide licensed guide with over 10 years of professional experience. 4. In-Depth Storytelling – Detailed historical and cultural insights beyond standard tours. 5. Interactive & Personal – Ask questions freely throughout the tour. 6. First-Class Service – High-quality guiding focused on comfort, clarity, and value. 7. Flexible Visit – After the guided tour, stay inside and explore at your own pace.

from$57.06

Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Ticket with Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

328 20 min – 30 min

Explore the ancient cistern with a professional tour guide with skip the ticket line without waiting. The cistern has an unusual history that attracts travelers across the globe to experience it in real. Who would not want to walk on raised wooden platforms to feel water dripping from the arched ceilings giving the essence of historical architecture? If you have a passion for photography, you will love the medusa-head column bases.

from$66.75

Istanbul Old City: Basilica Cistern - Blue Mosque - Grand Bazaar (opens in a new tab)

127 3 h

Visit the historic ‘old town’ of bustling Istanbul on this tour. Photo opportunities await at Sultanahmet’s notable religious sites including the Underground Basilica Cistern and Blue Mosque. Wander through aromatic spice markets after exploring the Byzantine heritage of the Hippodrome. Witness the Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman Empire influences in this part of Turkey's great metropolis. ⦿ Tour the historic reference points of the old town with an English speaking tour guide ⦿ Benefit from a smaller tour group that can be customised to your interests ⦿ Sample Turkish delights in the Grand Bazaar and visit a local carpet workshop ⦿ Enjoy the best scenery of Istanbul from Blue Mosque

from$70.76

Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line (opens in a new tab)

279 2 h 40 min

Discover the captivating history and architectural wonders of Istanbul with our tour that takes you on a journey through the mysterious Basilica Cistern and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Our tour begins at the breathtaking Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel that dates back to the 6th century. Discover the ingenuity of Byzantine engineers who constructed this colossal subterranean reservoir, capable of holding over 80,000 tons of water. Our next stop transports you to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Admire the palace's distinctive architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. Explore the Harem, the most intimate and secluded part of the palace, where sultans and their families resided. Discover the secrets, intrigues, and luxurious lifestyles of the Ottoman royalty as you wander through these opulent chambers.

from$53.66

Guided Hagia Sofia, Blue mosque, Basilica Cistern- Grand Bazaar (opens in a new tab)

216 3 h – 4 h

Skip the long lines to get inside the Hagia Sofia and Basilica Cistern. Att! Tickets provided but are extra to be paid to the guide while on tour. Please check the exclusions for the ticket prices. * Entrance fees are €67, US$77, or 3,850 TL per person, payable in cash only to your guide at the start of the tour. You may pay in Turkish lira, euros, or US dollars. Tick most of the top sites of old Istanbul off your travel bucket list with our specialized small group tour. It is a fully-guided tour inside Hagia Sophia (Ayasofya), Basilica Cistern, Blue Mosque, Roman Hippodrome and Grand bazar. ( on Sundays Grand bazaar is closed it will be substituted with Spice bazaar). Along the way stop to hear the stories of the Roman Hippodrome (including Egyptian Obelisk, and Serpent Column German Fountain ), Million stone,

from$57.06

Istanbul Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern with Tickets (opens in a new tab)

183 3 h

Explore the rich history of Istanbul with a 3-hour guided tour visiting the iconic Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern. Benefit from pre-reserved admission tickets that allow for seamless entry, avoiding long waits. This small-group experience, limited to a personal setting, makes for a more engaging exploration of Ottoman and Byzantine heritage. - Visit iconic landmarks: Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern. - Enjoy expert guidance in a small-group setting for a more personalized experience. - Pre-reserved tickets ensure effortless entry to each site. - Discover fascinating histories and architectural wonders of Istanbul's past.

from$130

Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Ticket with Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

213 45 min – 1 h 40 min

Visit the biggest ancient water cistern built in 336 with the two very famous Medusa heads. The Basilica Cistern is one of the most visited museums in Istanbul. Especially in spring, summer and fall there are very long queues in front of the ticket office. Thanks to our service you get inside the Basilica Cistern the fastest way. Fast and Easy Access. Visit one of the most famous landmarks with a pre-booked entry ticket and start exploring right away. Your ticket will be sent to you by email 24 hours before your visit — please remember to check your inbox and spam folder. Audo guiding service in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish After your museum tour you can stay inside and discover the Basilica Cistern on your own pace. PLEASE NOTE: IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO SKIP OR BYPASS SECURITY CHECKS AT THE ENTRANCE. DURING THE HIGH SEASON, WAITING TIMES FOR SECURITY MAY TAKE UP TO ONE HOUR.

from$65.61

Topkapi Palace, Harem & Basilica Cistern Guided Walking Tour (opens in a new tab)

74 3 h

Discover Istanbul’s imperial heritage on this guided tour of must-see landmarks. Start at Topkapi Palace, home of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, and explore its grand courtyards and imperial halls with expert commentary. Continue into the Harem, where you’ll learn about palace life, royal families, and court traditions. Then head underground to the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine masterpiece famous for its marble columns and mysterious Medusa head sculptures. Along the way, your guide will share engaging stories and historical insights that bring the city’s past to life. This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a short yet immersive introduction to Istanbul’s Ottoman and Byzantine history.

from$108

Basilica Cistern Fast Track Entry Ticket with Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

21 1 h 30 min – 2 h

Fast and Easy Access. Visit one of the most famous landmarks with a pre-booked entry ticket and start exploring right away. Your ticket will be sent to you by email 24 hours before your visit — please remember to check your inbox and spam folder. Discover the Basilica Cistern with Skip-the-Line Fast-Track Entry and a Self-Guided Audio Tour. Explore its 336 marble columns, vaulted ceilings, and tranquil pools while uncovering its Byzantine history and significance in Istanbul. Hidden beneath Sultanahmet's bustling streets, the Basilica Cistern offers a serene escape and captivating insights into Istanbul's rich past. Perfect for history lovers, photographers, and curious travelers, this hassle-free, self-paced tour is a must-see for any Istanbul itinerary, combining history, architecture, and mystery. PLEASE NOTE: IT IS NOT POSSIBLE TO SKIP OR BYPASS SECURITY CHECKS AT THE ENTRANCE. DURING THE HIGH SEASON, WAITING TIMES FOR SECURITY MAY TAKE UP TO ONE HOUR.

from$65.61

Istanbul Landmarks: Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque & Basilica Cistern (opens in a new tab)

3 4 h

Experience Istanbul’s cultural treasures on a compact, expertly guided tour. Explore the majestic Hagia Sophia’s mosaics, marvel at the Blue Mosque’s stunning İznik tiles, and descend into the Basilica Cistern’s mysterious underground chambers. Walk the historic Hippodrome where chariot races once roared. Perfect for travelers short on time, this small-group tour offers rich historical insights with multilingual guides, ensuring a seamless journey through Istanbul’s Byzantine and Ottoman heritage.

from$45

Basilica Cistern (Private Guide & No waiting) Ticket not included (opens in a new tab)

114 40 min

❌ The entrance fee is not included! ✅ This is a Private Guided Tour ✅ No waiting in the Line ✅ Travellers may purchase the tickets directly at the museum ticket office without waiting in line when accompanied by your licensed Tour Guide Nuri Erbay Enjoy the flexibility of a private guided tour and fully immerse yourself in the Basilica Cistern.

from$30

Vatican Museums Sistine Chapel Tour and Basilica Access (opens in a new tab)

4,793 3 h

Explore the Vatican with an expert guide and skip the long lines to uncover the stories behind its most famous masterpieces. Step inside the Vatican Museums and journey through centuries of art and history. Walk the Gallery of Maps and Gallery of Tapestries, and come face to face with sculptures that inspired Michelangelo, including the Apollo Belvedere and Laocoön. Then, enter the Sistine Chapel, where your guide reveals the secrets behind Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes. Marvel at the Creation of Adam and the Last Judgment like never before. Upgrade your tour to continue into St. Peter’s Basilica and admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. This tour is perfect for travelers who want more than just a visit, experience the Vatican through the eyes of an expert who brings art, faith, and history to life.

from$51.36

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

42,217 3 h

Spend more time inside with no-wait access to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica through an official Vatican partner entrance. On this comprehensive guided tour, you'll experience the best of the Vatican in just three hours, including the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and more. Navigate the vast complex of artwork and history with an expert, who will bring this ancient collection to life. Choose from several departure times and languages.

from$78.75

Vatican City St. Peter's Basilica Reserved Entry and Audio Guide (opens in a new tab)

255 1 h 10 min – 3 h

Gain exclusive access to St. Peter's Basilica, a cornerstone of Catholic faith and an architectural masterpiece, with reserved entry that allows you to bypass the crowds. Marvel at Michelangelo's Pietà and Bernini's grand Baldachin, each showcasing unparalleled artistry. Explore the stunning mosaics that adorn the Basilica's walls and ceilings, immersing yourself in a space rich with history and spiritual significance. Built over the tomb of St. Peter, this iconic church invites you to connect with centuries of artistic achievement and profound religious heritage.

from$18.26

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica Tour (opens in a new tab)

175 3 h

Enjoy the guided tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and get skip-the-line access to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. Come across a striking variety of world-famous artworks on a guided tour of the Vatican. Take in the mesmerizing frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Enjoy skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica. Admire the beautiful Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and discover one of the most beautiful sites in the world on this fantastic 3-hour tour of the Vatican with a reserved entrance. Let your guide bring the works of art to life at the Pinecone Courtyard, the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, and the Gallery of Candelabra. Discover one of the largest churches in the world, St. Peter's Basilica, a sanctuary of faith and beauty that inspired several generations of pilgrims and art enthusiasts alike.

from$103

Basilica Cistern Expert&Entertaining Tour, Priority Entry by HAN (opens in a new tab)

90 1 h

Children up to 12 years old are FREE (guide only-TICKET NOT INCLUDED) Please NOTE that children aged 9 and above require a separate museum entrance ticket. What makes this experience unique is the combination of private guiding, visual storytelling and personal attention. I use my tablet with carefully selected photos and short videos to help you see and understand details that are difficult to notice on your own. You will discover the fascinating stories behind the Medusa heads, the Weeping Column, ancient spolia, myths and legends of this extraordinary 1,500-year-old cistern. I will also share stories connected to the James Bond movie From Russia with Love and Inferno, filmed here, and point out the best photo spots. Surprise gifts for everyone! Some stories and interpretations surrounding the cistern are still debated and cannot be considered 100% historically proven — I will clearly distinguish history, theories, myths and legends.

from$31.20

Private Guided Basilica Cistern Tour with Skip the Line Access (opens in a new tab)

41 1 h

I want to pass on my knowledge and passion to my guests, ensuring +25 year of experience and offer a tour in safety and comfort; with friendly personal touches. We will visit the Basilica Cistern. Avoid the lengthy queues and explore the largest ancient water cistern housing two Medusa heads. Enhance your understanding of this cathedral-sized cistern by joining a guided tour conducted in English. Be captivated by the submerged palace and uncover an expansive man-made freshwater lake equivalent in size to two football fields. Experience elements of the cistern that played a prominent role in beloved James Bond film and Dan Brown movie. I will arrange the tour according to all guest’s needs and interests and use their time as efficient as possible. I will be designing program itineraries according to highlights and not waiting the ques, skiping the lines.

from$136

Skip the Line: Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Tour + Basilica (opens in a new tab)

6,568 1 h – 3 h

Save time and energy at the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line, timed entry that lets you bypass long queues and head straight inside. Explore the highlights with your guide, including the Sistine Chapel, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Gallery of Maps, while learning the rich history, art, and architecture behind these masterpieces. With expert commentary, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation of the Vatican’s treasures and enjoy a more meaningful visit. Upgrade to a small-group tour for a more personalized experience, or extend your visit with priority entry to St. Peter’s Basilica. Prefer to focus only on St. Peter’s? Select the Basilica-only option for a guided visit inside. Short on time? Opt for the 1.5-hour tour to breeze through the Vatican Museums and be among the first to enter the Sistine Chapel.

from$38.80

Vatican, Sistine Chapel & St. Peter's Basilica VIP Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

1,719 2 h 30 min

Skip the line and immerse yourself in the Vatican's treasures with an expert guide and priority entrance in a small group. This exclusive tour includes the incredible collections and galleries of the Vatican museums and of course the awe inspiring Sistine Chapel. Designed for those who wish to explore and experience the full splendour of the Vatican City. Wander through the Vatican Museums, an incredible array of masterpieces. The vast collection includes exquisite sculptures, mesmerising frescoes, and architectural wonders that together create a collection unmatched anywhere in the world. Feast your eyes on breathtaking works by world renowned artists such as Bramante, Bernini, Perugino, Botticelli and of course Michelangelo. Please note that St Peters Basilica is subject to last minute closures and for the papal audience on some Wednesday mornings, entrance can not always be included. In this case there will be an extended tour of the Vatican museums.

from$85.60

Istanbul Guided Tour Hagia Sophia, Topkapi, Cistern with Tickets (opens in a new tab)

219 4 h 15 min

All tickets are included on this efficiently organized tour. Benefit from priority admission to museums, allowing you to skip the lines and make the most of your time. Explore the major highlights of historical Istanbul on a guided tour that takes you to the must-see attractions. With an expert guide, step inside the magnificent Hagia Sophia and gain insights into its rich history. Visit the Basilica Cistern where you can marvel at the unique upside-down Medusa heads. Stroll through the impressive Topkapi Palace and learn about the Ottomans. Benefit from convenient pickup at Galata Port or meeting point in Sultanahmet.

from$113

Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel Tour with St Peter Basilica Access (opens in a new tab)

57 3 h

Unlock the Vatican on a 3-hour semi-private tour with priority entry. Follow an expert guide through the Vatican Museums, exploring the Papal collections of art, sculptures, and treasures gathered over centuries. Be amazed by Raphael’s Rooms and marvel at the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s genius fills every inch of the ceiling and altar wall. Your guide will end the tour at St. Peter’s Square, dropping you off at the Basilica entrance. From here, you’ll explore St. Peter’s Basilica on your own, taking in Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s magnificent sculptures at your own pace.

from$181

Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel & St. Peters Basilica Guided Tour (opens in a new tab)

15 3 h

Skip the lines at the Vatican Museums and immerse yourself in history, priceless artifacts, and papal treasures. Your visit will culminate at the Sistine Chapel, where you can marvel at Michelangelo's Last Judgment. Experience one of the city’s most iconic landmarks like never before! Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica with our expert guide, who will share the fascinating history and origins of the world’s largest basilica. Admire masterpieces such as Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s grand Baldacchino.

from$126

Private Istanbul Tour:Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Basilica Cistern (opens in a new tab)

26 4 h – 7 h

We are a group of licensed, professional guides in Istanbul. We created this platform to offer you the best private tours. Our tours help you skip long lines and avoid crowds with the help of local experts. With us, you’ll enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and memorable visit. This tour is conducted in cooperation with HIGH CLASS TRAVEL (TÜRSAB License No: 4035), an officially registered A-Class Travel Agency in Türkiye, ensuring full compliance with national tourism regulations.

from$147

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