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Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide in Istanbul

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!

Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide in Istanbul

Are you looking for the best way to experience the underground marvels of Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern? If so, you have come to the right place! With an expert guide and skip the line privileges, this is the perfect tour for discovering the magnificent architecture of the Ottoman Empire.

The Basilica Cistern is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Istanbul. Located within walking distance of the Sultan Ahmet district and St. Sophia Cathedral, it is a must-see destination when visiting the city. The cistern was built over 1500 years ago by Emperor Justinian and was used to store water for the city during times of siege. Its awe-inspiring columns, arches and chambers were designed with ingenious engineering and flamboyant style that continue to inspire awe and wonder today.

This tour will lead you around the chambers of the cistern and will explain the history, significance and architecture of what lies underneath this ancient city. With exclusive skip-the-line privileges you can avoid the often lengthy queues and maximize your time exploring. An experienced guide will accompany you every step of the way, providing in-depth insights into the construction and purpose of the cistern and sharing stories of centuries past.

Your tour will start from outside the main entrance when your guide will explain the exterior design of this majestic structure before leading you inside. You’ll be able to take your time to wander around its chambers and gaze up at the 336 marble columns that are still standing tall today. Your guide will point out some interesting features such as Medusa’s head and Justinian’s portrait and will make sure to answer all your questions. As you wander through its depths, you’ll get a clear picture of why this impressive monument has captivated visitors from throughout the centuries.

At the end of your tour you’ll have an opportunity to take some amazing photos above the entrance to capture your experience before heading back up onto street level. This tour provides a comprehensive exploration into Istanbul’s hidden secrets and a chance to explore one of its most treasured landmarks in unparalleled comfort.

So what are you waiting for? Visit GetYourGuide to book your place on this exclusive tour to avoid queues, enjoy a more personalized experience and plus maximize your time in Istanbul. Experience the hidden treasures of this city like never before – book your tour today!

Istanbul: An Insider’s Guide

Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and a former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. The city is located on two continents, Europe and Asia, which makes it a unique cultural experience. Istanbul is one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the world, attracting tourists from all over the globe. Whether you want to discover the city’s ancient history, taste delicious food, or explore its hidden alleys, Istanbul has something for everyone. Here’s a detailed guide to what Istanbul has to offer:

Local Attractions

Istanbul is full of incredible landmarks, so it’s challenging to see everything in one trip. Start your journey by visiting the Basilica Cistern Tour, one of the most significant landmarks in Istanbul. The Basilica Cistern is an underground cistern built in the 6th century during the Byzantine era and can hold up to 2.8 million cubic feet of water. The site features two famous carved Medusa heads, which are a must-see.

Next up is the Topkapi Palace, which is famous for its blue-tiled interior and stunning views of the city. The palace has been the home of Ottoman sultans and their courts for over 400 years and is now a museum. Once you’re done exploring the palace, head over to the Hagia Sophia, a stunning marvel of Byzantine architecture, and one of the city’s top landmarks.

Another must-see attraction in Istanbul is the Grand Bazaar, a bustling market where you can find traditional Turkish goods such as textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. The market’s size and variety can be overwhelming, so it’s best to spend a few hours exploring the area.

Dining Spots

There’s no denying that Turkish cuisine is one of the best in the world. Istanbul is an excellent place to experience the country’s dining culture. Start your food journey with Turkish breakfast, which is a wholesome meal made up of cheese, olives, honey, bread, tomatoes, and cucumbers. One of the best places to get breakfast is Van Kahvalti Evi, which is famous for its breakfast menu.

For lunch, try balik ekmek, a fish sandwich served with lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. The best place to enjoy this dish is at the Eminönü fish market, where you can see the boats carrying the catch of the day. If you prefer meat, don’t forget to try doner kebab, a Turkish fast food that consists of spit-roasted meat.

For dinner, head over to the Karaköy Lokantası, which serves traditional Turkish food with a modern twist. The restaurant’s menu changes daily, and you can expect to find dishes made with seasonal ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

To truly immerse yourself in Istanbul’s culture, make sure to visit the city’s local hamams, traditional Turkish baths that have been in use for centuries. The hamam experience starts with a steam bath, followed by a scrub down with a kese, a rough mitt that exfoliates the skin, and ends with a massage. The Cemberlitas Hamami is one of the most famous hamams in Istanbul, which has been operating since the 16th century.

Explore Istanbul’s lesser-known neighborhoods such as Balat, a colorful neighborhood that’s home to many Jewish and Greek minorities. You can admire the neighborhood’s antique shops, cafes, and historic houses.

Local History

Istanbul has a rich and vast history stretching across the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Make sure to visit the Archaeological Museum of Istanbul to see the country’s history on display, including Greek and Roman artifacts. Another excellent place to learn about Turkey’s history is the Museum of Innocence, which explores the country’s social and cultural aspects from the late Ottoman period to the early 2000s.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Istanbul is full of tourist attractions, but there are also hidden gems that are worth exploring. For example, visit the Pera Museum, a private art museum located in the Beyoglu district. The museum has a collection of European paintings, Turkish art, and Kütahya ceramics.

Another hidden gem is the Sahaflar Çarşısı, a secondhand book bazaar located near the Grand Bazaar. You can find old and rare books, maps, and prints in this market.

In conclusion, Istanbul is a city with rich history and beautiful landmarks, culture, and food. Make sure to plan your trip in advance so that you can explore everything the city has to offer.

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Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Tour and Skip The Line with Guide in Istanbul

Experience Adventure Like Never Before: Book Your Tour Today!