Visit the Basilica Cistern and see Byzantine artworks, including the iconic Medusa heads and hundreds of illuminated columns.
Learn about the secrets of these subterranean structures as you navigate the underground site.
Explore Dolmabahce Palace, the last residence of the Ottoman Sultans, and admire world's largest collection of Baccarat and Bohemian chandeliers.
About this activity
The Basilica Cistern is Istanbul's largest covered cistern, originally supplying water to the Great Palace. Soak up the sights among 336 illuminated marble and granite columns and admire the Byzantine architecture and famous Medusa heads. Nearby is the Dolmabahce Palace, featuring a blend of Ottoman and European architectural styles. Decorated with crystal and gold accents, the Palace now serves as a museum along the…
What's included
Included
Admission
Location
Good to know
Child policy:
Children under 6 years are free of charge.
Children must be accompanied by an adult and may be requested to present a valid passport or ID at the entrance for age verification.
Basilica Cistern:
The admission ticket includes an audio guide available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, German, Romanian, Croatian, and Arabic. A download link will be provided upon booking confirmation, and the audio guide must be downloaded in advance.
Last admission is one hour before closing time. Check the official website for the daily opening hours prior to your visit.
Dolmabahce Palace:
Last admission is 30 minutes before closing time. Check the official website for the daily opening hours before your visit.
Please note that the Dolmabahce Palace is closed every Monday.
Languages for audio headset material: Arabic, Dutch, French, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Spanish.
