Basilica Cistern, Turkey - Timings, Tips & Things To Do

Basilica Cistern, Turkey: Overview

The Basilica Cistern Turkey is one of Istanbul's largest and one of the most popular places to visit in Turkey. The Basilica Cistern is the largest open to the public among the hundreds of cisterns. It is located on a renowned peninsula that also houses Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The building was built in 542 by the famed Byzantine Emperor Justinian I to supply the water demands of the palaces.

The two Medusa heads are symbolic of magnificent Roman architecture and are thought to have been stolen from a famous antique edifice. The two heads form the base of two pillars on the cistern's northwestern side. It could contain 80,000 cubic meters of water, which was purified and sent to the Great Palace of Constantinople and other significant structures on First Hill. After substantial renovations by the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality, the Basilica Cistern Turkey reopened to tourists in 1987. The majestic edifice of marble pillars, also known as the Subterranean Palace, provides an excellent tourist attraction and one of the unique things to do in Turkey that you should explore.

How To Reach Basilica Cistern

By Tram
Tram is an inexpensive method, although it may take more than 50 minutes to reach Basilica Cistern. The historical cistern may be reached by the T1 tram line. From there, it is a short walk to the Basilica Cistern Turkey.

Taxi
The quickest method to get to Basilica Cistern from Istanbul Airport is to take a taxi. If you take a cab, you will arrive at the Basilica Cistern in 30-35 minutes. While taxis are available outside the airport, digital apps are also available.

By Train
From Taksim, one may take a direct train to Vezneciler, which takes around 7 to 10 minutes. Every five minutes, there are trains available.

Best Time To Visit Basilica Cistern

The best time to visit Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is March to May, followed by September to November. In the fall and spring, Istanbul offers lovely weather. During these months, you will be able to easily explore Basilica Cistern. The Basilica Cistern's opening hours change according to the season. It is available to the public after 9:00 a.m. daily. The closing hour is 6:30 p.m. from April to October and 5:30 p.m. from November to March.

Tips To Visit Basilica Cistern

Tips to visit Basilica Cistern

Carry enough cash with you to purchase your admission ticket because they do not take debit or credit cards.
The museum pass that grants you access to other museums will not be accepted at Basilica Cistern Turkey.
The subterranean cistern is dark and wet, which might cause a temperature decrease. Always keep a light cardigan on hand to keep oneself warm. However, bear in mind that the tour of the Basilica Cistern may require a lot of walking, so dress comfortably and you must wear strong and comfortable shoes on Turkey Tours.
Because Istanbul is a religious city, it is advisable to wear clothing that covers your knees and arms.
You may take images of the wonderful vistas of the Basilica Cistern with your phone. Although using a tripod is forbidden in the cistern, so don't bring one with you.

Things To Do at Basilica Cistern

Discover the remarkable construction of the Basilica Cistern Turkey under Istanbul's streets and learn about its history. During the trip, be awed by the cistern's beautiful construction and stare at the Medusa Heads. Admire the cistern's engineering while learning about its history with a free audio guide.

Quick INFO

Basilica Cistern Timings:

Monday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Tuesday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Wednesday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Thursday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Friday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Saturday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Sunday

10:00 am to 4:30 pm

Time Required to Visit Basilica Cistern:

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Nearby Places in Turkey

Basilica Cistern

Blue Mosque

Ephesus

Galata Tower

Hagia Sophia

Topkapi Palace

Istanbul Archaeological Museum

Sumela Monastery

Anitkabir

Chora Church

FAQs About Basilica Cistern

Why does the Basilica Cistern have no windows?

Basilica Cistern has no windows as this was built as an underground building for a specific purpose. Basilica Cistern Turkey was used as shelter and water storage for the army during the wars.

What is the ticket cost for Basilica Cistern Turkey?

The price of a Basilica Cistern Turkey ticket depends on the age group of visitors. This popular attraction in Turkey has two categories of entry pass for adults who are of age over 8 charged 300 Turkish Lira while kids under the age of 8 are charged nothing.

How much time do I need to explore the Basilica Cistern?

The sight of Basilica Cistern Turkey involves various statues and attractions that depict the ancient art and history of the city which made this fall into the list of most prominent places to visit in Turkey. To explore this tourist destination, you would require 3-4 hours. So when you plan your trip, try to spare some time for this place.