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.

Located in the dynamic Fatih, the popular Basilica Cistern is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of İstanbul or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

İstanbul is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, İstanbul offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in İstanbul and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque, Topkapi Palace Museum, and The Blue Mosque.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, İstanbul has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in İstanbul, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

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

For those already in İstanbul, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Basilica Cistern, which is located 0.6 miles (1 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Basilica Cistern, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. 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 tour that features this popular palace in İstanbul is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Basilica Cistern draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Basilica Cistern starting at just 4.65 EUR below.

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 a rental car, discovering the popular Basilica Cistern and Turkey's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Istanbul Airport and the city of İstanbul, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in Turkey cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in İstanbul and beyond.

Conveniently explore Basilica Cistern and plenty more captivating attractions in İstanbul by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Basilica Cistern and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that İstanbul has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Basilica Cistern below.

Aside from Basilica Cistern, İstanbul is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around İstanbul, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Egyptian Bazaar, Grand Bazaar, and Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque.

Egyptian Bazaar is a bucket-list establishment and top attraction in İstanbul, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 160,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Egyptian Bazaar is Rüstem Paşa, 34116 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in İstanbul is Grand Bazaar. Like Egyptian Bazaar, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars among 150,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Beyazıt, 34126 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of İstanbul. This mosque and top attraction in İstanbul has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 120,000 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Sultan Ahmet, Ayasofya Meydanı No:1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of İstanbul below.