Basilica Cistern Tickets

Secure your entry to the Basilica Cistern with advance tickets and skip the often-lengthy queues. Choose from standard admission tickets, money-saving combo passes that include multiple Istanbul attractions, or guided tour options with expert historical commentary.

Istanbul: Basilica Cistern Fast-Track Entry and Audio Guide

Enjoy total flexibility with this all-day entry ticket to the Basilica Cistern. Explore on your own, with an audio guide, or a live guide, and upgrade to include entry to the iconic Hagia Sophia.

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Reserve now & pay later

Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.

Valid 1 day

Check availability to see starting times

Skip the ticket line

Fast-track entry included

Audio Guide Available in:

English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Russian, Romanian, Turkish

Highlights

  • Enjoy total flexibility: ticket is valid all day long, come whenever you want
  • Use the online ticket line and jump the ticket queue
  • Save at least 2 hours by not standing in the ticket line
  • Enjoy a free audio guide app in English, German, French, Spanish and more..
  • Gain special insights with audioguide and take amazing pictures with Medusa Head

Full description

Explore the striking Basilica Cistern during your visit to Istanbul. Journey beneath the earth's surface and admire the distinctive architecture while listening to an audio guide that will give you insights into the history of this place.

Journey back in time and discover the ancient Byzantine Empire. Make your way down the stairs and discover the Basilica Cistern beneath the streets of Istanbul. Wander through the ancient structure and admire the architecture and ornamentation including Medusa heads from Greek mythology.

As you listen to the audio guide, learn more about the Basilica Cistern's fascinating history. Stay inside for as long as you want and take some great photos of one of the top attractions in Istanbul.

Includes

  • Basilica Cistern skip-the-line ticket
  • Audio guide in 11 languages
  • Hagia Sophia entry (if selected)

What to bring

  • • Headphones
  • • Charged Smartphone

Know before you go

  • • Tickets sent via separate email
  • • Download audio guide in advance
  • • Limited internet at the venue

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Meeting Point

You’ll receive your QR code ticket directly from Cosmic Tickets after 6 PM the day before your visit. Same-day bookings are sent immediately.

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Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia with Optional Topkapı Palace

Skip the ticket lines at the Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia Mosque with a convenient combo ticket. Explore independently, and add Topkapı Palace and Harem for a richer imperial experience.

Free cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Valid 3 days

Flexible schedule for your discovery

Skip the ticket line

Fast-track admission to both sites

Highlights

  • Save time with pre-booked skip-the-line tickets for a seamless experience.
  • Prepare to journey back to the 6th Century AD as you peruse the Hagia Sophia.
  • Join in unraveling the mysteries concealed within numerous captivating mosaics.
  • Add the Topkapı Palace & Harem for a richer experience.

Full description

A captivating exploration of Istanbul's rich heritage with our exclusive combo ticket, providing access to both the iconic Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern. Roam freely through the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia, a living testament to centuries of history, and marvel at the intricate details of Byzantine craftsmanship.

Our combo ticket grants you flexibility, remaining valid for an impressive 3 days from the date of your first use. Explore Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern at your pace, spanning multiple days for a comprehensive Istanbul experience.

You may also add a visit to Topkapı Palace, once the imperial residence of the Ottoman sultans, for a richer glimpse into the empire’s splendor and daily life.

Includes

  • Skip-the-line Hagia Sophia
  • Skip-the-line Basilica Cistern
  • Topkapı Palace & Harem (optional)

Not Included

  • Professional Tour Guide
  • Ground Floor entry (Sophia)

Not suitable for

  • • Wheelchair users

Important information

  • • Women: No knee-length shorts/skirts, cover hair with scarf
  • • Men: No knee-length shorts
  • • Security checks can take 30+ minutes

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Respectful Attire

Hagia Sophia requires respectful clothing. Women should cover shoulders/chests and partially cover hair with a scarf. Clothing can be purchased on-site.

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Tips for Booking Your Tickets

  • Book in advance during peak season: April through October sees heavy visitor traffic. Book 2-3 days ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
  • Consider combo passes for multi-site visits: If you're planning to visit Topkapi Palace, Hagia Sophia, or other major attractions, combo tickets offer significant savings.
  • Check cancellation policies: Most online tickets offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your visit, providing flexibility in case your plans change.
  • Have your ticket ready on mobile: Most providers send digital tickets via email. Save them to your phone or print them before arriving to speed up entry.
  • Arrive 10-15 minutes early: Even with skip-the-line tickets, allow time for security checks and finding the correct entrance on Yerebatan Caddesi.

Important Information

Have Questions About Tickets?

Check our FAQ for answers to common ticket and visiting questions.

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