ISTANBUL · TÜRKIYE
Basilica Cistern
Stop 04 of 18 on Travelhour's Istanbul walking day
About Basilica Cistern
The Basilica Cistern, or Cisterna Basilica, is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey. The cistern, located 150 metres (490 ft) southwest of the Hagia Sophia on the historical peninsula of Sarayburnu, was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine emperor Justinian I. Today, it is kept with little water for public access inside the space.
Frequently asked
Basilica Cistern — questions travellers ask
- How much are Basilica Cistern tickets?
- Basilica Cistern ticket prices vary by season and age group; check the official site or use the booking partners linked on this page for current live pricing.
- What are Basilica Cistern opening hours?
- Opening hours vary by season — check the official Basilica Cistern website before your visit for the current schedule.
- How do you get to Basilica Cistern?
- Basilica Cistern is centrally located in Istanbul, Türkiye. Reach it by metro, tram or a short taxi ride from the city centre — see the Google Maps link on this page for exact walking directions.
- Is Basilica Cistern worth visiting?
- Yes — The Basilica Cistern, or Cisterna Basilica, is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul, Turkey.
- How long do you need at Basilica Cistern?
- Most visitors spend 1–2 hours at Basilica Cistern, though tour groups often move through in under an hour.
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ISTANBUL
Basilica Cistern