How to Visit Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern With a Guided Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Istanbul, you have to put the Basilica Cistern on your itinerary. The Cistern is full of history and beauty, and it’s definitely worth visiting. One of the best ways to experience the Cistern is by booking a guided tour. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about the Basilica Cistern and how you can book a guided tour.

What is the Basilica Cistern?

The Basilica Cistern is an ancient underground water storage system located in the heart of Istanbul. The Cistern was built during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, and it was used to supply water to the Great Palace and other buildings nearby. Today, the Cistern is one of Istanbul’s most popular tourist attractions, and it’s easy to see why. The Cistern is enormous and it features beautiful columns, arches, and sculptures.

Why Visit the Basilica Cistern With a Guided Tour?

Visiting the Basilica Cistern without a guide can be a bit overwhelming, and you might not fully appreciate the history and architecture of the place. By booking a guided tour, you’ll get to learn about the Cistern’s history from an expert guide, and you’ll get to explore all the corners of the Cistern without worrying about getting lost. You’ll also benefit from skip-the-line entry tickets, which means you won’t have to stand in long queues to get into the Cistern.

What’s Included in a Basilica Cistern Guided Tour?

When you book a Basilica Cistern guided tour, you’ll get a lot of value for your money. Typically, the tour includes:

• A tour guide who is knowledgeable about the history of the Cistern
• Skip-the-line entry tickets, so you won’t have to wait in long queues
• Entry fee (if group option selected)
• Entry fee (if private option selected approx. €29)

What Can You Expect During the Tour?

During the tour, your guide will take you through the Cistern and give you a detailed history of the place. You’ll learn about the engineering and other facts of the building, and you’ll get to see the famous Medusa Heads up close. The tour lasts about an hour, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos and ask your guide any questions you might have. After the tour, you can explore the Cistern at your own pace and take in all the beauty of the place.

How to Book the Basilica Cistern Guided Tour

Booking the Basilica Cistern guided tour is easy. You can book your tour online through GetYourGuide, a reputable tour company that offers a variety of tours in Istanbul. The tour costs about €16 per person, and it’s a great value for your money. To book the tour, visit this link: book the tour here. Once you’ve booked your tour, you’ll receive an email confirmation with all the details of the tour.

Tips for Visiting the Basilica Cistern

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit to the Basilica Cistern:

• Wear comfortable shoes, as the ground inside the Cistern can be slippery
• Bring a camera to take photos of the beautiful architecture and sculptures
• Make sure you book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment
• Listen to your guide carefully, as they’ll give you valuable information about the history and architecture of the Cistern
• Visit the Cistern early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds

Book Your Tour Now

Visiting the Basilica Cistern with a guided tour is an experience you’ll never forget. The Cistern is full of history and beauty, and it’s a must-visit destination in Istanbul. By booking a guided tour, you’ll get to learn about the Cistern’s history from an expert guide, and you’ll get to explore all the corners of the Cistern without worrying about getting lost. So don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity—book your Basilica Cistern guided tour today!

Frequently Asked Questions about Istanbul

1. What is Istanbul?

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the most significant cities in the world. It is situated on the Bosphorus Strait that links Europe and Asia and is known for its cultural diversity, historical landmarks, and stunning scenery. Istanbul is a melting pot of culture, tradition, and modern infrastructure. The city is known for its ancient architecture, vibrant food scene, and lively nightlife.

2. What is the history of Istanbul?

Istanbul has a long and rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was founded as Byzantium in 660 BC by the Greeks and served as the capital of the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman Empires. During the Roman era, Istanbul was an important center of trade and commerce. The city was later conquered by the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century and was renamed Istanbul. During the Ottoman era, Istanbul was the cultural, economic, and political center of the empire. Today, Istanbul is a modern city that preserves its ancient heritage and is one of the most visited cities in the world.

3. What are the top attractions in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a city that offers a mix of modern and ancient attractions. Here are some of the top attractions that you can visit in Istanbul:

• Hagia Sophia
• Topkapi Palace
• Blue Mosque
• Basilica Cistern
• Grand Bazaar
• Spice Bazaar
• Galata Tower
• Dolmabahçe Palace

4. What is the best time to visit Istanbul?

The best time to visit Istanbul is during the fall and spring seasons. The temperatures are mild during these seasons, and you can avoid the summer crowds. The peak tourist season in Istanbul is during the summer months, from June to August. During this time, the weather can be hot and humid, and the crowds can be overwhelming.

5. What is the currency used in Istanbul?

The official currency of Turkey is the Turkish Lira. You can exchange your currency at banks, exchange offices, and ATMs throughout the city. Credit cards are widely accepted in Istanbul.

6. What is the cuisine like in Istanbul?

Istanbul is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Turkish cuisine is a fusion of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors. Some of the popular dishes in Istanbul include kebabs, baklava, Turkish delight, meze, and fish. The city also has a vibrant street food culture with a variety of vendors selling traditional Turkish dishes.

7. How to get around Istanbul?

Istanbul has a well-developed public transportation system that includes buses, trams, metro, and ferries. You can purchase an Istanbulkart, a reloadable electronic ticket that can be used on all modes of transportation in the city. Taxis are also available throughout the city, and Uber is available in Istanbul.

8. Is Istanbul safe for tourists?

Istanbul is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any major city, it is advisable to take precautions to ensure your safety. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

9. What are the cultural norms in Istanbul?

Istanbul is a conservative city with a predominantly Muslim population. It is advisable to dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites. It is also customary to remove your shoes before entering mosques.

10. What is the language spoken in Istanbul?

The official language of Turkey is Turkish. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and you can easily communicate with locals in English.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a fascinating and vibrant city that attracts millions of tourists every year. This city has something to offer for everyone, from historical landmarks and cultural attractions to modern infrastructure and a vibrant food scene. By following these frequently asked questions about Istanbul, you can plan your trip to this beautiful city and explore its cultural and historical treasures.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Istanbul

Istanbul is one of the most vibrant and culturally rich cities in the world. Its unique blend of East and West, modernity and tradition, is what makes it such an enchanting destination for tourists. Here is a detailed guide for tourists who are planning to spend their time in Istanbul.

1. Visit the Blue Mosque

One of the most iconic landmarks in Istanbul is the Blue Mosque. This mosque gets its name from the blue tiles that decorate its interior. The mosque was built in the 17th century and is still functioning as a mosque today. It is open to visitors, but it is important to dress appropriately and remove shoes before entering.

2. Explore the Grand Bazaar

The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world. It has been in operation since the 15th century and is still bustling with activity today. Visitors can find anything from Turkish carpets, spices, jewelry, and souvenirs. It is important to bargain when shopping in the market as haggling is part of the culture.

3. Take a Bosphorus Cruise

The Bosphorus is a strait that separates Europe and Asia. Taking a cruise along this picturesque waterway is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. The cruise passes by many of the significant landmarks such as the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia.

4. Visit the Hagia Sophia

The Hagia Sophia is one of the most impressive landmarks in Istanbul. It was built in the 6th century as an Orthodox Christian church and later converted into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Today, it serves as a museum and is open to visitors. The impressive dome and intricate mosaics make it a must-see destination.

5. Enjoy Turkish Cuisine

Turkey is famous for its cuisine, and Istanbul is no exception. There are many restaurants that serve traditional Turkish food such as kebabs, Turkish delight, and baklava. It is also worth trying some of the street food, such as simit (a sesame seed-covered bread) and roasted chestnuts.

6. Visit Topkapi Palace

Topkapi Palace was the residence of the Ottoman sultans for over 400 years. It is now a museum and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can explore the opulent palace and see the treasures of the Ottoman Empire.

7. Take a Turkish Bath

Visiting a Turkish bath, or hammam, is a unique experience. It involves a steam room, a scrub with a special glove, and a massage. It is a great way to relax and unwind after a day of sightseeing.

8. Walk Through Taksim Square

Taksim Square is the heartbeat of modern Istanbul. It is a bustling area with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can also see the Republic Monument that commemorates the founding of the Turkish Republic.

9. Visit the Spice Bazaar

The Spice Bazaar is the perfect place to buy spices, teas, and Turkish delight. It is located in the Eminonu district and has been in operation since the 17th century.

10. Explore the Asian Side

Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents. Exploring the Asian side of Istanbul is a great way to see a different side of the city. There are many neighborhoods to explore, including Kadikoy and Uskudar.

Book Your Tour Now

Istanbul is a city rich in history, culture, and cuisine. There are many things to see and do, and this guide is just the tip of the iceberg. By following these suggestions, tourists can experience the best of Istanbul.