When is the Basilica Cistern closed?

The Basilica Cistern is open throughout the year.

How long should I spend at the Basilica Cistern?

The Medusa Heads, the Weeping Column, and the 336 columns lining the roof are some of the most significant highlights inside the Basilica Cistern. You can spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring these columns and arches.

What is the best time to visit the Basilica Cistern?

March to May and September to October are the best months to<link linkType="custom" newTab="true" url="https://www.basilicacisterntickets.com/visit-basilica-cistern/" id="E7dyhHNw" shortCodeType="link" text=" visit the Basilica Cistern" />. You can enjoy pleasant temperatures in Istanbul during these months.

Is the Basilica Cistern open on public holidays?

The Basilica Cistern is open to visitors every day of the year from 9am to 10pm.

Basilica Cistern Opening Hours | Best Time to Visit

Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9am to 10pm, welcoming visitors year-round.

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)	TIMINGS	Last Admission
Monday	09:00–22:00	18:30
Tuesday	09:00–22:00	18:30
Wednesday	09:00–22:00	18:30
Thursday	09:00–22:00	18:30
Friday (Today)	09:00–22:00	18:30
Saturday	09:00–22:00	18:30
Sunday	09:00–22:00	18:30

Last daytime entry is around 6:30pm, after which standard admission closes.
Special night sessions run from 7:30pm to 10pm, available only with dedicated night-entry tickets.
Visiting at opening time or late afternoon offers fewer crowds and a smoother entry.

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Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Combo (Save 5%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Combo Guided Tour: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia with Skip-the-Line Tickets

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Best time to visit the Basilica Cistern

Weekday vs Weekend

Weekdays are generally less crowded allowing you to fully savor the tranquil ambiance of the Basilica Cistern.
Weekends typically witness larger tourist crowds, resulting in extended wait times and less leisurely exploration.

Mon

Tue

Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun

Pleasant

Crowded

Very Crowded

Closed

Peak season vs low season

March-May and September-October are the ideal months to visit Basilica Cistern, owing to the pleasant weather in Istanbul.
The peak summer season sees a huge influx of tourists so you will find the city quite crowded with high prices on hotels and restaurants. During the low winter season, there are fewer crowds, and you will find better deals on hotels and restaurants. If you are a budget traveler and would not mind the chill, visiting the during the low season is a good option.

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Off Season

Moderate Season

Peak Season

How long should you spend at Basilica Cistern?

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is famous for its long colonnades, tranquil waters, and Medusa Heads, which are said to have been repurposed from an ancient Roman building. You can spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring its interiors. Basilica Cistern guided tours also last for around 30 minutes to an hour. You can continue exploring on your own after your tour ends.

Plan your visit to Basilica Cistern

Frequently asked questions about Basilica Cistern opening hours

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9am to 10pm, with last daytime entry around 6:30pm. Night sessions run from 7:30pm to 10pm and require a separate night-entry ticket.