Complete Guide to Visit Basilic Cistern in Istanbul | Timings, Location, Tips & More

Tucked away beneath the homes and buildings of Istanbul, lies one of the most majestic historic attractions in the city, the Basilica Cistern. The Basilica Cistern is the largest cistern in Istanbul. Visitors who visit the Basilica Cistern are promised a mystical voyage through time, and for this reason, every year, millions of people visit the Basilica Cistern. Besides, the Basilica Cistern's 336 nine-meter-long columns and two Medusa heads leave a lasting impression on visitors. 

Planning a trip to this well-known attraction may be confusing. Hence, we've gathered all the information you need to plan your visit to Basilica Cistern in this article.

Basilica Cistern Opening Hours

Basilica Cistern

Best Time to Visit | Basilica Cistern

Basilica Cistern

The months of November through March are the ideal times to explore Istanbul's Basilica Cistern. In the summer, it is advised that you visit the Basilica Cistern between 9 to 10 in the morning because the daytime hours are typically less crowded. Istanbul is at its best from November to March, when the city enjoys great winter weather that makes exploring the city enjoyable.

Besides, to avoid crowds, you can plan to visit the attraction either just after it opens for the public in the morning or before the attraction closes in the evening.

Where is the Basilica Cistern?

Basilica Cistern

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey [Find on Map]
The Cistern is located around 150 meters southwest of Hagia Sophia on Istanbul's renowned Sarayburnu peninsula, near the Blue Mosque.

How to Get to the Basilica Cistern?

Basilica Cistern

By Public Transport

Tram: You can reach Sultanahmet from Kabatas via the Taksim Square Tram T1. Sultanahmet is the closest stop.

Taxi: Taking a taxi is the most convenient way to get from Istanbul Airport to Basilica Cistern. If you want to use a taxi, you can get to the Basilica Cistern in 30-35 minutes. Although you may get a taxi outside the airport, there are other online apps available.

Train: There is a direct train from Istanbul to the Basilica Cistern. It travels from Aksaray to Sultanahmet.

Basilica Cistern

By Car

You can also reach the attraction by car or even hire a taxi from the place of your stay.

Parking facilities: There are several parking facilities near the Cistern. Some of them are:

Dalbasti parking - 400 m far from the attraction. 

İspark 540 - 400 m far from the attraction.

Kabasakal Medrese Önü - 400 m far from the attraction.

Know Before You Go

Facilities
Accessibility
Visiting with Family
Rules & Regulations
Dining
Stay
Nearby Attraction
Basilica Cistern
  • Gift Shops: The Basilica Cistern is close to several gift shops given its central location in Istanbul. In these shops, you may buy a wide variety of souvenirs and collectibles.
  • Cloak Rooms: Several cloakrooms will help you keep your luggage safely as you roam around.
Basilica Cistern
  • There is a lift that enables visitors with wheelchairs to access the attraction close to the Alemdar Street tram line.
  • Please be aware that wheelchairs cannot be accessed by the entrance stairs.
  • The cistern is difficult to navigate in a wheelchair because it is so wet and slick.
Basilica Cistern
  • There are child-friendly restaurants in Sultanahmet, which is just a 5 min walk far from the Basilica Cistern.
  • The restrooms near the attractions also have feeding rooms.
Basilica Cistern
  • In addition to your Basilica Cistern tickets, there are guided tours and audio guides available to make your visit memorable.
  • Inside the Basilica Cistern, you are permitted to snap images using a camera or mobile phone. However, carrying a tripod is not permitted inside.
  • Please make sure that you wear clothing that covers your knees and arms because Istanbul is a very religious city.
Basilica Cistern

The Basilica Cistern is located at the center of Istanbul There are various restaurants near the attraction. Some of them are:

Basilica Cistern

There are several hotels nearby the attraction. Some of the best stay options are:

Basilica Cistern

What’s Inside?

Basilica Cistern

Medusa’s Heads

On the northwest side of the Basilica Cistern, the 336 columns are supported by two Medusa heads that serve as their bases. The cave once could accommodate 80,000 cubic meters of water. It is believed that the two heads of Medusa appeared from the cavern's floor after the water had subsided. The real fact behind the head of the Gorgon monster is still a mystery.

Basilica Cistern

Weeping Pillar

An independent pillar had been sculpted to honor the 7000 slaves who had died while working on the Basilica Cistern. It has peacocks, trees, and branches carved into its surface, earning it the name "Weeping Pillar." Additionally, it has angled branches and tears that mimic a hen's eye.

Basilica Cistern

Stone Architecture

The Basilica Cistern's stunning stone construction provides visitors with a unique travel experience. The colonnades are a visible reminder of Istanbul's multiethnic past and evoke memories of their Roman origins. The soft lighting illuminates the deep cavern and gives it a sinister feel.

Basilica Cistern

Underground Steps

To explore the eerie depths of the Cistern, you must descend 52 steps. Even though the water was drained during the repair, you can still see a few carp leisurely swimming in the shallows. The Yerebatan Palace, as the locals affectionately refer to it, is well-lit and stands magnificently as a historical wonder of the past.

Visitor Tips

  • Bring enough cash to purchase the entry ticket because debit and credit cards are not accepted.
  • The Basilica Cistern does not accept museum passes that provide you access to other museums.
  • Because of its darkness and dampness, the underground cistern may get colder than usual. A lightweight cardigan should always be in your bag for warmth. However, bear in mind that you may need to do a lot of walking throughout the Basilica Cistern trip, so dress comfortably. 
  • You may need at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the Cistern.

Book Basilica Cistern Tickets & Tours

Skip-the-Line Tickets to Basilica Cistern with Audio Guide or Optional Guided Tour

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Guided Tour
More details +

Skip-the-Line Ticket to Basilica Cistern with Guided Tour

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
1 hr.
Guided Tour
More details +

Best of Istanbul: Combo Guided Tour

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Audio Guide
More details +

Istanbul Welcome Card

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
168 hr.
Audio Guide
More details +

Istanbul E-pass with Skip-the-Line Tickets to the Top Attractions

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Guided Tour
More details +

Skip-the-Line Tickets to Topkapi Palace with Audio Guide App

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Audio Guide
More details +

Skip The Line Tickets to Dolmabahce Palace with Harem Section and Audio Guide

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Audio Guide
More details +

Skip-the-Line Tickets to Galata Tower with Optional Walking Tour

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
1 hr. - 1 hr. 30 min.
Guided Tour
More details +

Skip the Line Guided Tour of Topkapi Palace

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Flexible Duration
Guided Tour
More details +

Historian Guided Tour of Hagia Sophia

Free Cancellation
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
1 hr.
Guided Tour
More details +

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Basilica Cistern

Q. Where is the Basilica Cistern?

A. The Basilica Cistern is located near the Hagia Sophia, Faith, Istanbul.

Q. Can I visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. Yes. Anyone can visit the Basilica Cistern.

Q. Why should I visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's most renowned architectural wonder. This Cistern, which dates to the sixth century, is a prime illustration of the incredible engineering of the East Roman Empire.

Q. What is the best time to visit Basilica Cistern?

A. The best time to visit Basilica Cistern is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November).

Q. Can I visit the Basilica Cistern for free?

A. No. You need to buy the tickets to visit the Basilica Cistern.

Q. How do I book tickets to visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. You can book your Basilica Cistern tickets online to enjoy a hassle-free visiting experience.

Q. How much does it cost to visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. The entrance cost to the Basilica Cistern is 190 Turkish Lira. Visitors with disabilities and one companion can enter FREE of charge.

Q. What is the best time to visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. The best time to view the attraction is just after the attraction opens and the time near the end of the closure time.

Q. What are the Basilica Cistern opening hours?

A. The Basilica Cistern is open from 09:00 AM in the morning to 7:00 PM.

Q. Can I visit the Basilica Cistern in a group?

A. Yes. You can visit the Basilica Cistern in a group and even book group guided tours.

Q. Can I visit the Basilica Cistern with the kids?

A. Yes. You can visit the Cistern with the kids.

Q. Is the Basilica Cistern wheelchair-friendly?

A. Yes. Close to the Alemdar Street tram line, there is a lift that enables visitors in wheelchairs to access the attraction. However, accessing the whole Cistern is difficult for wheelchair users.

Q. How long does it take to visit the Basilica Cistern?

A. It takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to explore the Basilica Cistern.

Q. Is it worth visiting the Basilica Cistern?

A. Yes. Basilica Cistern captures the spirit of Istanbul and it is astounding evidence of the Byzantine Empire's sophisticated water system.

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