How to Plan Your Basilica Cistern Skip the Line Entry with Guide and Highlights Tour in Istanbul

Are you planning a trip to Istanbul and looking for a way to avoid the long queues at the city’s most famous tourist attractions? Consider taking the Basilica Cistern Skip the Line entry with guide and highlights tour.

This tour is operated by Istanbul Welcome Card and includes a meet and greet with an official guide, an entrance fee, and a skip-the-line ticket to the Basilica Cistern, the largest water cistern built in ancient times. You will even get to see two famous Medusa head statues inside the cistern.

What to Expect

The tour begins with a meet and greet by an official guide who will take you to the Basilica Cistern. Once you arrive, you will skip the ticket lines and head straight inside. Your guide will provide commentary about the cistern as you explore the landmark at your own pace.

During your visit, you will see the two famous Medusa head statues, which are said to be the pillars that support the cistern. Your guide will share interesting facts and historical information about the cistern, including how it was built, its significance, and its unique architecture.

After the tour, you will have free time to further explore the Basilica Cistern on your own.

Additional Information

Confirmation of your tour will be received at the time of booking. Please note that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, although most travelers can participate. While you will skip the ticket lines, you will still need to go through a security check, which can take up to 15 minutes.

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel your Basilica Cistern Skip the Line entry with guide and highlights tour up to 2 days before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Book Here

Ready to book your Basilica Cistern Skip the Line entry with guide and highlights tour? Visit the Viator website to reserve your spot today. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable tour of one of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks.

The Complete Guide to Istanbul

Istanbul is a city that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. It is a melting pot of cultures, history, and religions, making it one of the most fascinating cities to visit. If you are planning to visit Istanbul, you might have a lot of questions in mind. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Istanbul.

1. When is the best time to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul has a temperate climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit Istanbul is during the shoulder season, which is from April to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the crowds are less compared to the peak season.

2. How to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-connected public transportation system. You can take buses, trams, and ferries to explore the city. The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable card that you can use for public transportation. Taxi and ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem are also available in Istanbul.

3. What are the must-visit attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul has a plethora of attractions that are worth visiting. Some of the must-visit attractions are:

• Hagia Sophia
• Blue Mosque
• Topkapi Palace
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Bosphorus Strait
• Galata Tower
• Chora Museum

4. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The currency used in Istanbul is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange your foreign currency for Turkish Lira at the airport, banks, or exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul, but it’s always better to carry some cash with you.

5. What is the dress code in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a cosmopolitan city with diverse cultures and religions. There is no specific dress code, but it’s better to dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Women should cover their heads and shoulders when visiting mosques, and men should wear long pants.

6. What is the food like in Istanbul?

Turkish cuisine is famous for its unique flavors and rich taste. Istanbul has a diverse range of food options, from street food to fine dining. Some of the must-try dishes in Istanbul are:

• Doner kebab
• Meze platter
• Baklava
• Kumpir
• Lahmacun
• Manti
• Iskender kebab
• Pide

7. Is it safe to visit Istanbul?

Istanbul is a generally safe city, but like any other big city, it’s always better to take precautions. Avoid dark alleys or deserted areas, especially at night. Be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe. It’s always better to carry a copy of your passport and important documents with you.

8. Where can I shop in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a shopper’s paradise, with an abundance of shopping options. Some of the popular places to shop in Istanbul are:

• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Istinye Park Mall
• Kanyon Mall
• Nisantasi
• Bağdat Avenue
• Fatih Market
• Beyoğlu Market

9. How many days should I spend in Istanbul?

To explore Istanbul thoroughly, you should spend at least five to six days. This will give you enough time to visit the major attractions, try out the local food, and explore the city on foot.

10. What are some off-beat things to do in Istanbul?

Apart from the major attractions, Istanbul has some unique things to do, such as:

• Visit a Turkish bath
• Take a Bosphorus cruise
• Explore the Princes Islands
• Visit the Miniaturk Park
• Watch a Whirling Dervish show
• Visit the Rahmi M. Koç Museum

Conclusion

Istanbul is a city that offers a unique experience to travelers. With its rich history, culture, and food, Istanbul has something to offer for everyone. We hope this guide has answered some of your questions about Istanbul and helps you plan your trip to this wonderful city.