Basilica Cistern travel guide

The Basilica Cistern, also known as 'Yerebatan Sarnıcı', is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture nestled in the heart of Istanbul.

Hidden beneath the city streets, this ancient cistern was constructed during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in 532 AD to store fresh water for the Great Palace and nearby buildings.

It was built on the site of a basilica, hence its name, and could hold up to 80,000 cubic meters of water, supplied via two aqueducts.

The cistern was forgotten for centuries, only to be rediscovered in the 16th century. After a major renovation in the 1980s, it was opened to the public, allowing visitors to stroll along its raised platforms and marvel at the 336 marble columns, as well as the iconic Medusa heads.

Today, the Basilica Cistern is one of Istanbul's most popular tourist destinations, offering a unique glimpse into the city's Byzantine past.

Discover Basilica Cistern, a prime feature of Istanbul, in the vibrant Fatih. Basilica Cistern is situated at Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye, just a short distance from Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and Hagia Irene, making it a perfect addition to your itinerary.

In the vicinity of Basilica Cistern, various dining and shopping options await, alongside a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of local life. This location serves as a perfect starting point or a key highlight during your exploration of Istanbul, a city in Turkey rich with cultural and adventurous activities.

When planning your trip, timing is key. Discover the best time to visit Istanbul to fully enjoy the seasonal charm of Basilica Cistern. Explore travel trips and ideas on this city from the comprehensive Istanbul travel guide for an unforgettable adventure.

Basilica Cistern is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Istanbul, Turkey. If you're flying in, Istanbul Airport is approximately 21.9 miles (35.2 km) away from the city center. From there, you can easily reach Basilica Cistern by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Istanbul, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica Cistern, which is located 0.2 miles (0.3 km) from the city center. Its exact address is Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Basilica Cistern!

To truly enjoy your visit to Basilica Cistern, joining a guided tour of this renowned archeological site in Istanbul is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Basilica Cistern draws visitors from across the globe, often leading to long queues and limited availability.

Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience. With the biggest selection of tours and tickets in Istanbul, you’re sure to find an option that fits your schedule and preferences.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica Cistern starting at just 19.95 EUR below. Enjoy benefits like free cancellation and 24/7 customer support for added convenience.

The best time to explore Basilica Cistern is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months when Istanbul's weather is pleasantly mild and the tourist crowds are lesser. These periods offer comfortable conditions for exploring the underground marvel that is the Basilica Cistern. The cistern, being an indoor attraction, is less affected by weather conditions, making it a year-round destination. However, visiting during the off-peak seasons ensures a less crowded and more enjoyable experience. Additionally, the autumn season coincides with the Istanbul Biennial, a major contemporary art exhibition that could add an extra layer of culture to your trip. Keep in mind that the Basilica Cistern opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 5:30 PM, and it tends to be less crowded in the early morning or late afternoon. Lastly, try to avoid visiting on a Monday when it's often busier due to the closure of many other museums in Istanbul.

With everything seamlessly arranged for your trip to Istanbul, you can simply pack your bags and look forward to exploring Basilica Cistern.

Keep reading to discover the best options for experiencing this iconic archeological site in Turkey.

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Choosing the right accommodation near Basilica Cistern from the widest selection of hotels and places to stay in Istanbul can truly make all the difference in your trip. Not only will you be within a comfortable distance from Basilica Cistern, but you’ll also enjoy the best rates available, backed by 24/7 customer service and glowing reviews.

To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve curated a handpicked list of top-rated hotels nearby.

Beyond Basilica Cistern, Istanbul boasts plenty more landmarks that make every trip unforgettable. From establishment to mosque, the top attractions in Istanbul offer experiences you won’t want to miss.

One of the most notable attractions to visit while in Istanbul is Egyptian Bazaar, located at Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye. This well-known establishment enhances your time in the city.

Whether you plan a short visit or take time to explore fully, Grand Bazaar is worth seeing when you're in Istanbul. It's a popular establishment that’s perfect for rounding out your itinerary. You’ll find it at Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

For an unforgettable addition to your itinerary, a visit to Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque completes any trip to Istanbul. This mosque draws visitors with its unique appeal, making it an essential stop on your journey. Located at Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye, its surroundings offer plenty of reasons to linger a little longer.

The city's top sights offer a wide variety of experiences to make your trip truly memorable. Check out the full list of top attractions in Istanbul below to discover even more incredible places to explore.