Basilica Cistern Tickets with Skip-the-Line Entry

Beneath the busy streets of Sultanahmet lies a cool, dimly lit world. These Basilica Cistern tickets give you skip-the-line entry to the impressive underground reservoir from the Byzantine era, where hundreds of columns hold up the vaulted ceiling above the water.

What you will see

The cistern was built in Byzantine times to supply water to the city. Today a walkway leads you over the water past the reflections of the columns and changing light, to the cistern's best-known feature: the Medusa heads carved into two column bases. It is one of the most photogenic interiors in Istanbul.

Planning your visit

The cistern is a few minutes' walk from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, so it fits naturally into a day in the historic peninsula. It stays cool all year and the floor can be damp in places, so wear comfortable shoes. Skip-the-line entry saves you time, especially when queues build up around midday.

Who is it for?

It suits travellers who want to see one of Istanbul's best-known sights in a short time, photography lovers and anyone exploring the old city at their own pace. If you would like commentary, take a look at our guided and audio-guided cistern options too.

Practical tips

Early mornings and late afternoons are usually quieter. Inside, use your phone's night mode rather than a flash for better photos. Pairing the cistern with Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque on the same day is the easiest way to explore the old city on foot.

To round off your trip, browse more experiences on our Istanbul tours page, and find somewhere to stay among our hotels in Istanbul.