Basilica Cistern Guided Tour & Skip the Line Ticket

Avoiding the queue was extremely useful, especially since the line was quite lengthy when we visited. It was also really beneficial to have a guide share the historical details with us. Our guide, Mehmet if I recall correctly, was very personable and provided us with a lot of insightful information. I would suggest this during the peak season as it definitely saves time.

Helpful? Yes

It would have been better if the guide spoke more fluent English.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was very well-structured, and the guide shared some fascinating historical stories. We would definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

The process went smoothly and the group was small, only five people in total. This gave the guide the advantage of paying special attention to us.

Helpful? Yes

Unfortunately, the information provided during the tour was minimal and could easily have been found in the first few lines of a Google search. There were no dates or measurements shared, and overall, the content was lacking. The details we did receive felt disconnected. I wouldn't recommend this tour guide. The only real benefit was skipping the line, but even that wasn't necessary as the line wasn’t particularly long. On a positive note, he was polite and friendly.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was not at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start as announced, which made me feel uncertain. But 10 minutes before the start, the guide was there with a flag and after that everything went great. A beautiful cistern that is definitely worth visiting. And thanks to the guide, there were some explanations and questions were also answered very well. I would spend the extra money on a guide again. In addition to the stories, we also got tips for the best photo spots.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Mehmet, was very knowledgeable and excellent. The process for entering the cistern was quick and efficient.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was well-organized. The skip the line ticket was very helpful, especially with the long queue at the entrance. We saved at least 20 minutes. The guide’s presentation, which lasted about 30 minutes, was clear and efficient.

Helpful? Yes

Finding the guide was incredibly frustrating. When we finally did, we were told we'd have to pay an additional fee, even though we'd booked for two adults and two children. The guide said he'd give us a discount if we paid. This made us uncomfortable and made us question the guide's credibility. Frankly, it's much easier to just buy the tickets directly and use the mobile audio guide to avoid all this stress.

Helpful? Yes

It was larger than we anticipated, and the lighting effects were impressive. We visited at the beginning of the tourist season, so it wasn’t very crowded. The layout was well thought out, and everything was easy to navigate.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was brief, with the guide hurrying through the information in a short amount of time it lasted around 10 minutes. However, it’s still a good option, especially since the entry line was very long, and we saved a lot of time. Given that, it was definitely worth it.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Ceker, was fantastic. He spoke perfect English and was excellent at engaging everyone on the tour with his explanations. The only downside was that it was sometimes hard to hear him due to the crowds and the noise around us.

Helpful? Yes

There was no guide available my tour had been canceled. I was given tickets to the cistern, but I had originally booked for a guided experience. I didn’t bring headphones, so I couldn’t listen to the alternative pre-recorded audio tour.

Helpful? Yes

The guide provided us with a thorough 30 minute introduction to the Cisterns and their history, which was very informative. Afterward, we had unlimited time to explore the Cisterns on our own. I believe this tour was a great balance of a self-guided experience with a helpful guided segment.

Helpful? Yes

The skip the line option was a great way to enter quickly, but the guide didn’t seem very engaged in his role and presented the information in a rather dry, impersonal way. He mentioned being tired, which might have impacted his performance, but as a tour guide, it's important to bring energy and enthusiasm to each tour.

Helpful? Yes

It was a good experience. The guide spent roughly ten to fifteen minutes giving us a brief overview, after which we had the opportunity to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

It's a fascinating place. The guide gave us a lot of historical information.

Helpful? Yes

It’s definitely a must visit. The guide was very well informed. The only downside was that, due to the large crowd, the guide hurried through the tour. In the end, I decided to leave halfway and spent the rest of the time taking photos with my wife

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Buse, was very knowledgeable and shared a lot of interesting details. It’s a lovely tour, and in about 45 minutes, you’re finished. I recommend going on the early tour, as it’s less crowded and gives you a chance to take some great photos.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic, and the skip the line feature was a real lifesaver given the long queue. The guide was great as well. Overall, there’s nothing to complain about.

Helpful? Yes

We loved that the guide gave the group a detailed explanation and then we were free to explore as much as we wanted on our own. We also didn't have to wait in long lines.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is stunning. It’s definitely worth seeing. The guided tour lasted about half an hour, but the guide shared a lot of information during that time. He was clear and easy to understand. Afterward, he left us to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is an incredible place to visit, with its unique atmosphere. We had plenty of time to explore the entire "cave." Our guide escorted us to the cistern and explained a wide section of the bridge system. Afterward, we explored on our own. If you plan on taking photos, be sure to use a high ISO setting; cameras with small sensors can struggle. It's also a good idea to take multiple shots with different exposure settings.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic. It was both enjoyable and informative.

Helpful? Yes

The visit was quite interesting. Ozzy is very knowledgeable and his enthusiasm is contagious. The tour doesn’t take too long, and while the cost of the attraction might seem a bit high, it’s still worth a visit.

Helpful? Yes

The guide did a fantastic job explaining the history of the Basilica Cistern, sharing fascinating legends, and giving helpful tips on where to go for the best photos. Really excellent guide

Helpful? Yes

The guide wasn’t very engaging while giving his explanations. We listened to him for about 10 minutes before he left us to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

The information provided was very helpful, and the skip the line tickets are definitely worth it.

Helpful? Yes

Ibrahim is a fantastic guide. Everything was perfect.

Helpful? Yes

The skip the line ticket was really helpful. Our guide provided us with a brief 10 minute overview, and then we were free to explore the cistern at our own pace. Definitely worth having.

Helpful? Yes

It was breathtaking and wonderful to visit. However, the "guided tour" was quite short; the guide spoke for less than 5 minutes at the beginning. After that, we were left to explore on our own. It would have been better if the guide had accompanied us throughout the tour, providing explanations along the way.

Helpful? Yes

I gained a lot of insight into the cistern and its various functions throughout history. The tour guide was very well informed.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fascinating experience. We really enjoyed hearing about the history of the cisterns construction and admiring the artwork on display.

Helpful? Yes

I was traveling with my husband and two adult children. We arrived early for the tour as instructed, but the guide showed up late and was quite rude when he finally did. He didn’t introduce himself or ask for our names. Once we went down into the Basilica, he gave a very brief explanation about the cistern before switching to talk about the best places to shop in Istanbul. As the cistern started to fill up, my son suggested we walk around and continue talking, but the guide just abruptly said goodbye and left us. We ended up not having any real guided tour. It was a huge letdown and certainly not worth the money.

Helpful? Yes

I was traveling with my husband and two adult children. We arrived early for the tour as instructed, but the guide showed up late and was quite rude when he finally did. He didn’t introduce himself or ask for our names. Once we went down into the Basilica, he gave a very brief explanation about the cistern before switching to talk about the best places to shop in Istanbul. As the cistern started to fill up, my son suggested we walk around and continue talking, but the guide just abruptly said goodbye and left us. We ended up not having any real guided tour. It was a huge letdown and certainly not worth the money.

Helpful? Yes

We were really pleased with the tour. The Basilica Cistern is absolutely stunning and definitely worth a visit! Our guide, Cem, was very knowledgeable and polite. He answered all our questions and even recommended a few other interesting places to check out. Thank you so much.

Helpful? Yes

I felt it was quite expensive for what it offered, and I didn't feel like I got much value out of it.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very approachable and well informed.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very unprofessional. Thankfully, I managed to find him just as he was entering, but there was no communication beforehand, so I had to guess if he was the right person. As for the tour, he seemed very disengaged and lacked enthusiasm. It was clear he wasn't passionate about the job. In fact, the audio guide likely provided more detailed information. The tour ended abruptly with him saying, "Feel free to explore, but I can't stay the whole day." He left after just 10 to 15 minutes. It was really disappointing.

Helpful? Yes

Mehmet was extremely friendly and knowledgeable. He shared numerous fascinating stories about the Basilica Cistern as well as the city itself. We especially appreciated that the group was small, which made the experience even better.

Helpful? Yes

The location is truly incredible. However, the guide wasn't as friendly as I had hoped, and I expected a bit more from him. The audio tour was decent, though. Despite that, we still had a wonderful time, and the skip the line option was definitely a bonus. It's definitely worth visiting.

Helpful? Yes

Beso, our tour guide, was excellent at explaining everything and ensuring we were well taken care of. His explanations were very clear.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was friendly, but since our group had 17 people and the acoustics inside were not ideal, it was difficult to hear him. The company should consider providing headsets or limit the group size to around 10 people. The tour allows you to skip the line, with the guide giving a 30 minute history talk before leaving you to explore the Cistern at your own pace. I would recommend booking a skip the line ticket with an audio guide and bringing your own earbuds.

Helpful? Yes

The cost seemed a bit too steep for the length of the activity, but overall, the attraction was enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

Our tour guide was excellent. He kept a good pace, had great knowledge, and even shared illustrations and pictures while explaining things. A very pleasant person overall.

Helpful? Yes

The site itself was amazing. The columns were remarkable, and the lighting added to the experience. The explanation was informative, but it was all given at the start when we weren’t yet able to see the things he was referring to. The tour would have been much better if the guide had taken us to each location, explained its significance, history, and context, and then moved on to the next one inside the Cistern.

Helpful? Yes

The visit was fascinating, but it was quite crowded.

Helpful? Yes

We were so relieved to have skip the line tickets when we saw how long the queue was.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic, and using the skip the line option made everything much quicker. The Cistern itself is really impressive.

Helpful? Yes

It was fascinating to witness something built so long ago. The tour was brief, lasting around 30 to 40 minutes, but it was definitely worth the experience.

Helpful? Yes

The guide gave us a good overview of the cistern. The main value of the ticket is really in skipping the line, which we found worthwhile. It's a great visit to an essential historical site when in Istanbul.

Helpful? Yes

This tour was definitely worth the cost, mainly because it allowed us to skip the long, long lines and get straight into this essential attraction in Istanbul. The guide was friendly and well informed, making the tour enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

The visit was very interesting. However, the guide spoke quite rapidly, which made it challenging for those of us who are not native English speakers to follow along.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is definitely a must see and a highlight of the trip. However, the guide spent roughly 25 minutes delivering a lot of information from a corner of the cistern. At times, it was hard to understand due to the speed at which he spoke. In my opinion, the cost of the tour doesn’t quite match the experience, especially since we had much better tours the previous day.

Helpful? Yes

I arrived at the meeting point before 1:30 PM, which was the scheduled start time for the tour. I sent a message through the app to let them know I had arrived early, but I didn’t see anyone. It wasn’t until 30 minutes later, when the tour had already begun, that I received a response.

Helpful? Yes

The best part of the experience was that we didn’t have to wait as long as the people in the general line, and we had a guide. However, once we entered, the guide took us to a corner and started explaining the history of the basilica. It wouldn’t have been so bad if we could actually hear what was being said. The noise was overwhelming, and the guide didn’t use any headphones, so we couldn’t hear a thing. This turned out to be the least helpful tour we’ve ever booked. I would suggest skipping this and saving your money just visit the basilica on your own.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica was stunning, and our guide shared some fascinating details, but we felt quite rushed throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic and provided a lot of useful information.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide seemed more focused on checking his watch and rushing through the tour. We had to ask him to face the group while speaking, as he often turned his back when explaining things around the stone pillars. His English pronunciation could also be improved. It's a shame because the cistern itself is a beautiful place to visit.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was very insightful. Ibrahim was patient and took the time to answer all the questions from the curious visitors.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is truly remarkable, but it would have been more enjoyable with headphones. Given the large crowd, it was sometimes hard to hear or fully understand the guide due to the noise.

Helpful? Yes

The guide offers helpful information and does a great job of explaining everything.

Helpful? Yes

It was fantastic to skip the line.

Helpful? Yes

Ozzie was an excellent guide!

Helpful? Yes

The guide seemed uninterested in the tour and didn't even remove his sunglasses while inside the cistern. It's impolite not to maintain eye contact when speaking with others. If it was important for him, he could have at least offered an apology.

Helpful? Yes

As it’s not the high season right now, skipping the line wasn’t really needed. The audio guide was more useful than the brief explanation from our tour guide. The experience was okay, but overall, it didn’t feel like the best value for money.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is an amazing place to visit. Everything was beautifully arranged, and the entire experience was well organized.

Helpful? Yes

The cost seemed too high for the short duration of the visit, but more importantly, the guide lacked experience. The information provided was unclear and often vague, and the guide was unable to answer questions in a satisfactory manner. Overall, the guide appeared to be poorly prepared.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was knowledgeable, took the time to address questions, and provided explanations whenever necessary. He had a strong grasp of history.

Helpful? Yes

The guide took us to the cistern, shared about five minutes of historical background, and then told us to explore on our own. I expected more from a guided tour, especially considering the price difference compared to an audio guide. I’ve seen other guides who engage their group, showing them around and explaining the significance of every corner while pointing out good photo spots. Unfortunately, this tour didn’t offer that. It felt rushed, with the guide quickly moving to different points without realizing that some of us were left behind. In hindsight, I should have opted for the audio guide instead.

Helpful? Yes

It was a good experience, but it was difficult to hear the guide due to the echo and surrounding noise. It would have been much better if we had headphones to listen more clearly.

Helpful? Yes

Overall, I felt the tour was worthwhile. It was a good experience, though it ended up being quite demanding. The Basilica Cistern ticket you provided wasn’t accepted, even though it had a QR code. We ended up waiting for over 20 minutes for a tour that only lasted five minutes. After a brief introduction, we were allowed to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

The quick entry was really convenient.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was very detailed and thorough during our walk.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica is an incredible piece of history. It has even served as a backdrop for international films like James Bond 007. It’s a must-see masterpiece that should be part of any trip to Istanbul. Make sure to visit and appreciate its beauty.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent, and the location itself was fascinating

Helpful? Yes

It was fascinating to walk through the cisterns, though the experience was brief.

Helpful? Yes

The check in process was smooth, and our guide had the tickets ready, so we were able to skip the long queue. This was especially appreciated since it was quite hot. Mehmet was very knowledgeable about the cistern and provided an excellent explanation of its history while we were inside. After his talk, we were given the freedom to explore at our own pace. Highly recommended!

Helpful? Yes

It was fantastic. I absolutely loved the Basilica Cistern.

Helpful? Yes

The visit went seamlessly. They asked us to meet the guide at the exit, and he was there just as promised. Everything went as anticipated. The space is stunning and definitely worth the visit. It takes roughly 45 minutes if you take your time and explore at a relaxed pace.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was very well informed and led the tour in a professional manner, maintaining a comfortable pace throughout.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is stunning. However, we had trouble hearing our guide. The whole experience lasted about 40 minutes, which was shorter than I had anticipated. Our guide provided a brief introduction at the start but then stepped back and was only available to answer questions. I had hoped the guide would lead us through the entire tour and explain more along the way. The audio guide is useful, but it doesn’t work once you're inside, so it’s best to access it before entering.

Helpful? Yes

The venue was absolutely beautiful, and the location couldn't have been better. Our guide was knowledgeable and took the time to answer all of our questions. Overall, it was a fantastic experience.

Helpful? Yes

I had purchased a tour in Spanish, but when we arrived, it was in English. The only option the guide offered was to refund the money, but we decided to go ahead with the tour anyway.

Helpful? Yes

It's definitely worth paying a bit extra to avoid the line. The guide escorted us into the building, shared some interesting details, and pointed out the best spots for photos. There’s also an audio guide available, but we didn’t feel the need to use it. Overall, an incredible experience.

Helpful? Yes

A fantastic tour with a wonderful guide.

Helpful? Yes

Buse was an excellent guide. However, I had visited the cistern previously, and I noticed that the lighting seemed much better back then. It feels like they might be cutting back on electricity usage. Additionally, some of the artwork seems to have been removed.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was both friendly and knowledgeable. I learned a lot about the history of the cistern that I wouldn’t have discovered without the guide’s insights.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern was truly spectacular. However, the guide didn’t provide much information. He pointed out where to find the Medusa’s Head, but once we were done, he left without letting us know the tour had ended. It felt like we could have explored on our own without the guide.

Helpful? Yes

This experience was fantastic! Our guide took us through the full history, showing us various sections of the basilica and explaining the details. She was both very knowledgeable and entertaining. I highly recommend this to anyone visiting!

Helpful? Yes

What a breathtaking location. It’s perfect for taking amazing photos.

Helpful? Yes

Be cautious when you first arrive. Outside, you'll be asked to wait for your guide who will then escort you inside. I was approached by several individuals pretending to assist me, but they had nothing to do with the tour. It was all an attempt to lure you into their carpet shops. Stay alert and avoid engaging with them.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic and packed with valuable information.

Helpful? Yes

I didn't like how the guide started with a 15-20 minute explanation and then walked through the cistern, pointing out various features.

Helpful? Yes

It was a great tour with an outstanding guide.

Helpful? Yes

Before the tour began, the guides appeared to be quite disorganized, directing people in various directions. Given that this happens daily, I expected it to be more streamlined. However, once the tour started, it was really enjoyable.

Helpful? Yes

The explanation was excellent, and our female guide was absolutely fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is definitely worth visiting, especially with the Skip the Line tickets, since it's a very popular spot. However, there was one issue: it was sometimes hard to hear the guide due to the noise and crowds, even though she used a microphone system. On a positive note, it was great that we were allowed to stay as long as we wanted after the tour ended.

Helpful? Yes

The history of the place was fascinating, and the Skip the Line option was definitely a plus. However, the directions to the meeting point were a bit unclear. The tour itself was enjoyable. Just be cautious of people approaching you to chat—they’re usually trying to get you to visit their shops. This happened a few times while we were waiting for our guide, who was running a little late. Other than that, the tour was fine.

Helpful? Yes

The activity was enjoyable and informative, but it would be even better if they offered a guide in Spanish.

Helpful? Yes

I wasn’t particularly impressed by anything.

Helpful? Yes

The visit was somewhat pricey, but the interior is truly stunning.

Helpful? Yes

This was a self guided tour with a skip the line ticket, although the details were a bit unclear. The fast entry was convenient, but considering what was included, it felt a bit expensive.

Helpful? Yes

It was great to skip the line, but our "guide" only showed up to hand us the tickets. We were informed that guided tours are now only available at 4 pm. After some pressure from me and another couple, he gave us a brief 10-minute explanation once we were inside, but then left us to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

Be cautious, as buying a regular ticket means you'll likely face a long wait. The price is on the higher side, but if you're in a rush, this ticket allows you to skip the line, which makes it a good value. The Basilica Cistern is like an underground maze, which is really thrilling. There is a guide, but the tour is only in English and lasts about 10 to 20 minutes. It's not crucial to listen to every word, but the guide does provide some interesting historical insights.

Helpful? Yes

It was a decent trip. There were quite a few people inside, and after the first stop, our guide kept a distance from us. However, it was a beautiful place, and the story behind it was really interesting.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic, and it was very easy to find the location. The place itself is truly amazing to see.

Helpful? Yes

This was definitely not what I would consider a guided tour. It was a poor use of money, and I wouldn’t recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

After the guide provided the basic information, we had unlimited time to explore the area at our own pace.

Helpful? Yes

The site itself was amazing. The Skip the Line option is a must, especially considering the long queue at the counter.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was 10 minutes late, but the ticket line wasn’t very long to begin with.

Helpful? Yes

It's a truly unique experience. I recommend it to everyone. If you come to Istanbul, I highly recommend you see it.

Helpful? Yes

The waiting line was excellent, and everything was very well organized. The only difficulty was hearing the guide, even though they spoke very clearly. This is an unavoidable problem in crowded places, so this isn't a criticism of the guide. Just something to keep in mind.

Helpful? Yes

We managed to skip the line, and the guide shared a short story with us on the large platform below. Afterward, we explored at our own pace. You can also use the free audio guide through the app if you prefer. The audio guide really added to the experience. Overall, it's an incredible place, definitely worth visiting.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was quite late. We entered the cistern with the group, and after sharing a few details, he quickly moved through the cistern without pausing, leaving us all confused about where the notable sights were. We never saw him again after that.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was late at first, but it wasn't too bad since we got to go ahead of the others, which was great. However, apart from the quick entry, the guide didn’t add much value. He gave us a brief talk, around 5-10 minutes, in a very noisy area. After that, he quickly walked off with a flag raised, moving swiftly between the columns. Once we realized the tour was over after only 10 minutes, we found ourselves scrambling to catch up with him. Maybe it was planned that he wouldn't speak more, but he didn't inform us of that, so we had to backtrack and explore the cisterns on our own. The place itself is incredible, but the guide was disappointing.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is truly stunning. However, our guide only spent a maximum of 10 minutes with us. I wouldn’t suggest booking a tour with a guide for this location, as you can experience the same by simply purchasing an entry ticket.

Helpful? Yes

The tour provided helpful information and was explained clearly.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide seemed to ignore me, and it was difficult to hear him inside, so I ended up exploring by myself. However, I was still happy to have skipped the line.

Helpful? Yes

I purchased a tour for the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul. When we met, the guide handed us the entrance tickets and mentioned he would wait for us inside, but he never showed up.

Helpful? Yes

The guide’s voice was often difficult to hear due to the large group and the limited space, which made it challenging to stay engaged. If you happened to be caught behind slower tourists, you'd end up far at the back, missing parts of the explanation. It would have been helpful to have an audio system or a microphone that connects to earphones for the visitors. On the positive side, the guide was knowledgeable and shared a lot of interesting historical facts in the beginning. I learned a great deal from what I was able to hear. The Basilica Cistern itself is stunning and was one of the highlights of my first trip to Istanbul! I’d definitely recommend getting the skip the line ticket with the guide because it lets you bypass the long queues outside and also provides insight you wouldn’t get from reading about it in books.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was great, but the information provided was limited and could have been more detailed. The Basilica itself is impressive, though the entrance fee felt a bit steep for what was offered.

Helpful? Yes

The entrance was completely chaotic. The guides has tickets but most were unemployed. The guide appeared lost and no explanation was given.

Helpful? Yes

We had purchased skip the line tickets with a guide, but we ended up waiting in line for over 30 minutes. Many other groups were allowed in ahead of us, so it definitely wasn’t a skip the line experience. The worst part was that once we finally got in, the guide just disappeared without saying anything, leaving us without a tour. This was extremely frustrating!

Helpful? Yes

A big thank you to our guide today. It was incredibly crowded, but he still managed to provide a fascinating tour. All three of my kids, including my 8 year old, were really engaged and enjoyed the stories none of them found it boring. The only suggestion I’d have for improvement is to provide headphones. Even though the guide spoke clearly and loudly, some people in the group might have missed some interesting details.

Helpful? Yes

There were quite a few people waiting at the meeting point before the guide arrived. We asked some other tour guides nearby, and they mentioned that this is a common issue with this particular tour/guide. Thankfully, he showed up about 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. My booking had instructed us to arrive at least 15 minutes early, but he wasn’t there at that time

Helpful? Yes

The tour operator didn’t cancel the activity, even though the attraction was closed on the day of our booking. Instead, they only offered to reschedule for the following day at the last minute.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica is truly magnificent and a must visit if you're in Istanbul. It gets really crowded, and the guide has a hard time keeping everyone together before entering. The ticket price is on the higher side, like most attractions in Istanbul, but it's definitely worth the cost.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide was friendly, but there were moments when it was difficult to hear her. Perhaps using a low volume microphone, so as not to disturb other visitors, could improve the experience.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was well organized, and the guide was both helpful and personable. The interesting facts shared throughout really enhanced the experience.

Helpful? Yes

I booked the 11am slot but was given the wrong time. I tried calling the reception, but the number wasn’t working, and my email received no reply. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see anything at all.

Helpful? Yes

It was fantastic to skip the long queue and head straight in after the rest of the group arrived. The guide shared some interesting facts, but it was sometimes hard to hear or follow, mainly because the platform was crowded with other tours, making it quite noisy and echoey. The audio guide, however, was much clearer and provided a nice summary as you explored. Just make sure to download the app before you go in or leave your hotel, as there’s no Wi-Fi or service inside. If you want to use the audio guide after the guide’s explanation, this is a great option. There are also some excellent photo opportunities if you find the right spots, especially with the light hitting you and the columns. Additionally, the modern art installations were a pleasant surprise as you walked through.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was great. Everything fit perfectly.

Helpful? Yes

Skipping the line was definitely a lifesaver since the queue was pretty long when we visited. It was also great to have a guide explain the history to us. Our guide, Mehmet if I remember correctly, was very friendly and provided a lot of insightful information. I would recommend this, especially during peak season, to save time.

Helpful? Yes

The meeting point was perfect, and the tour guide provided a lot of valuable information. I learned a great deal about the basilica and the Medusa. I really appreciated the brief talk before the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was excellent, and our guide was very knowledgeable. The only suggestion I have is to provide the staff with headsets and microphones to improve the experience. It gets very crowded and noisy down there, making it hard to hear. By equipping the guides with this gear, it would greatly enhance the service they provide.

Helpful? Yes

I initially planned to buy tickets online or at the entrance. However, I quickly realized that the queues for both regular and online tickets were the same length, stretched around the corner, and could last up to an hour on a sunny day. So, I opted to buy tickets online. The guide was helpful and provided interesting information. However, the real advantage of this ticket is the "skip the line" option. If there's no line, you're probably better off saving 50% and opting for a self-guided tour. While the guide's narration is enjoyable and informative, it might not be worth the extra cost, especially if you're in a small group of one or two people. For families of more than three, the extra fee wouldn't be justified if there were no lines.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent very knowledgeable and spoke perfect English. After the tour ended, we stayed a bit longer to explore on our own. The Cistern itself is truly remarkable. It’s definitely a must-see.

Helpful? Yes

Although I was running late, the tour guide was actively looking for me at the meeting point.

Helpful? Yes

The guide provided a lot of helpful information.

Helpful? Yes

The facility was impressive, and the guide shared a lot of information at the start. After that, we were free to explore the place on our own. I didn’t end up using the audio guide.

Helpful? Yes

The tour itself was enjoyable, but unfortunately, the noise level made it difficult to understand much of what was being said. Our guide, however, was friendly and pleasant.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic. Our guide, Denis, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing his insights. He was friendly, patient, and communicated clearly in excellent English.

Helpful? Yes

The tour provided plenty of useful information, and we were also given time to explore at our own pace afterward. I would definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

The site was extremely fascinating and in excellent condition. Our guide was well-prepared and managed to keep everyone engaged throughout the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The place was truly enchanting and full of mystery. Our guide, Busra, was both kind and well-informed. There were just the two of us, and we really appreciated her company. The cistern itself was stunning, and we honestly feel it's a must-see for all visitors to Istanbul. We also want to thank Busra for her honesty in letting us know that women could enter for free that day. It was a thoughtful gesture. However, we chose not to ask for a refund, as we felt the experience was worth the cost, and the money would go toward a good cause.

Helpful? Yes

Mohammed was a fantastic guide. He was incredibly knowledgeable, providing us with not only all the facts about Istanbul's cisterns but also much more. The history behind it is truly fascinating. Thank you for such an educational and magical experience.

Helpful? Yes

The meeting point was easy to locate, and our guide was clearly visible. We had about 30 minutes with the guide, where he shared some fascinating details about the history of the site, followed by some free time to explore on our own.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide provided a detailed explanation and was very patient, taking the time to listen to all of our questions and provide thoughtful answers. It was truly fascinating to learn that such a place holds so many small yet significant pieces of history.

Helpful? Yes

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent, and the location was stunning. Everything went as planned, and I would definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

I was really impressed with the Basilica Cistern tour! I went with my husband, mother in law, and brother in law. My mother in law uses a wheelchair, but they had a lift to take her down to the cistern, and it was easy to navigate the new pathways. The guide was incredibly accommodating and allowed us to join a later tour because my mother in law’s doctor appointment ran late. He was very knowledgeable, and the cistern itself is absolutely stunning and enormous! It's definitely a must-visit, with its rich history, modern art, and beautiful lighting.

Helpful? Yes

Make sure not to miss this one of a kind location.

Helpful? Yes

The skip the line ticket was a great advantage, and our guide was very knowledgeable. However, she didn’t accompany us throughout the entire tour, so we missed out on some extra details while walking around. Despite that, it was still an excellent experience.

Helpful? Yes

The visit felt pricey for just a 30-minute tour.

Helpful? Yes

I had a great time. The guide was excellent too.

Helpful? Yes

This tour turned out to be surprisingly informative and valuable, with stunning lighting effects that left us in awe. The guide was very knowledgeable, and after his detailed explanation, we had plenty of time to explore on our own, taking in the beauty of the place and capturing photos. I would definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic, and I would definitely suggest opting for the guided tour to avoid the long queues. When we left the building, the lines to enter had already become quite lengthy! Our guide shared some fascinating details as we made our way through the Basilica.

Helpful? Yes

When visiting Istanbul, the Cistern is a must-see; it's a one of a kind experience. We went during a busy hour, and I feel we missed out on some of the magic that a quieter visit would offer. However, it’s definitely worth experiencing regardless.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and provided a detailed and clear explanation of the history. We were very pleased with the experience.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was fantastic, arrived right on time, and was very knowledgeable. The tour was engaging and informative. Thanks.

Helpful? Yes

The tour guide was highly knowledgeable, providing great insights while maintaining a very professional attitude throughout.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic. We bypassed a long line, which made the price well worth it. Our guide was engaging and very knowledgeable.

Helpful? Yes

Everything was great. The guide was easy to spot, and the location itself was fantastic.

Helpful? Yes

One of the biggest advantages of booking this tour online is the ability to skip the regular line, with basic information given along the way. This system works really well. Personally, I believe the Basilica Cistern is a must see because it's absolutely stunning. I was advised by another guide to book the tour early in the morning, ideally by 10am, and I found this to be solid advice. The crowds started to gather around 10:30am, just after our 10am tour, and to truly appreciate the atmosphere, it's best to avoid the crowds. It's an incredible place to visit.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fantastic visit. However, because of the large crowd, it was difficult to hear the guide properly.

Helpful? Yes

I had reserved the tour in Spanish, but when we arrived, we were informed that the guide was unavailable. We were asked to take the tour in English instead. While the guide was knowledgeable and very friendly, we couldn’t understand much. I would have appreciated being notified about this issue beforehand, especially considering the tour price is quite high.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was excellent, and there was no need to wait in line.

Helpful? Yes

I really enjoyed the site itself. The columns were stunning, and the lighting enhanced the experience. The guide's explanation was informative, but it was all provided at the start, which made it hard to connect with the information as we couldn't see the details at that moment. It would have been more effective if the guide had walked us through the Cistern, stopping at each point to explain its significance, meaning, and historical background before moving on to the next spot.

Helpful? Yes

It was a fascinating visit, but unfortunately, it was very crowded.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica was truly remarkable, and our guide shared some fascinating insights. However, we did feel quite rushed during the tour.

Helpful? Yes

The cistern is truly remarkable. It's a must see for anyone visiting Istanbul. The guide was friendly as well.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was great, but we had to wait before it began, even though I purchased the skip the line ticket.

Helpful? Yes

I was very pleased with the experience. The guide provided clear, concise information in excellent, easy to understand English. My only suggestion would be to allow a few minutes at the end for questions. Once the tour concluded, the guide left immediately, without giving us a chance to tip him. I noticed a couple of people still holding their tips in hand.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was decent. The guide was knowledgeable, though it felt a bit rushed at times.

Helpful? Yes

Those who purchased their tickets online had a priority line, while we didn’t, but overall, the tour was lovely.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is a must-see for first-time visitors to Istanbul. It's a unique experience, and it's recommended that you download the detailed guide before entering.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was conducted in English, but the guide only gave us a brief 5-minute explanation before leaving. However, the location itself is a must-visit. It's very unique compared to other places we've seen and offers fantastic opportunities for photography.

Helpful? Yes

The guide provided a great explanation and clearly knows his subject matter.

Helpful? Yes

The tour could have lasted 45 minutes instead of the 30 minutes stated.

Helpful? Yes

The location is great, and one of the key benefits is skipping the long lines. However, the tour consists of a brief introduction and history of the site in English, after which you're free to explore the area on your own without a guide. It would be helpful if they clarified that the tour is in English and operates as a semi-guided experience. That being said, the guide was very friendly.

Helpful? Yes

Durum, our guide, was extremely knowledgeable and provided clear answers to all our questions. It was a truly fascinating experience.

Helpful? Yes

The visit was incredibly interesting, and the architecture was stunning. However, it was challenging to hear our guide due to the large number of other tours happening at the same time.

Helpful? Yes

If there's a long queue, it's definitely worth the cost.

Helpful? Yes

It was good, but it was quite noisy inside. Skipping the line was definitely a great bonus.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was good for the price. While the tour guide wasn't particularly engaging, they got the job done.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was helpful, but the interior mainly consists of columns, which wasn't particularly captivating.

Helpful? Yes

The Cistern is a fascinating location, especially when it's hot outside, as it offers a cool escape. If you plan to visit, it’s a good idea to book ahead because the lines can get very long throughout the day. While the guide could have provided a bit more historical context about the Cistern, we did learn the key details. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was informative, but I felt it was a bit expensive for what was offered.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was well-organized, allowing us to skip the line and enter the Cistern directly. The guide provided a thorough explanation of the monument, and then gave us time to explore at our own pace.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was fantastic, and the ability to skip the line definitely earned this review 5 stars. The booking process was also very simple. However, we had some difficulty hearing the guide since there were four of us. One of us stayed close to the guide and relayed the information to the rest, but this didn’t take away from the overall experience. We would definitely recommend this tour.

Helpful? Yes

Our guide, Buse, was excellent. However, if you're taking a morning tour, the "skip the line" option may not be worth it, as there are usually no long queues at that time.

Helpful? Yes

Visiting this place was quite impressive, and it made for a great outing. However, it has become very crowded, and the group size of 30 people felt a bit too large.

Helpful? Yes

I enjoyed discovering the history behind the cistern. The explanations were brief but informative. Absolutely brilliant.

Helpful? Yes

The echo in the cave made it a bit hard to hear the guide at times.I think provide earplugs for everyone.

Helpful? Yes

The guide wasn't very impressive. He hurried through his talk and had photos on his phone, but didn’t make an effort to show them to the group. He didn’t seem to understand how to manage a large group or how to present effectively to such a crowd

Helpful? Yes

It was fine, though we had to wait a little longer than we anticipated.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was knowledgeable and insightful. It would have been helpful if the company’s flag was included in the app, so we could easily identify it by its size and logo. Overall, it was a pleasant and straightforward experience, but quite effective.

Helpful? Yes

The guide was wonderful and well informed. The introduction lasted roughly 10 minutes, after which we were free to explore on our own, which was fantastic. The site is stunning and definitely a must-visit when in Istanbul. The lines can get quite long, so it’s definitely worth purchasing a skip-the-line ticket in advance.

Helpful? Yes

The location is lovely. The guide provided sufficient information. The key point, however, is that we all helped each other in the queue.

Helpful? Yes

It was a bit tricky to spot the tour guide in the busy environment, as he arrived slightly later than the agreed time. However, the tour itself was straightforward. We were in, explored quickly, and left just as efficiently. The information provided was solid, and any questions we had were answered well.

Helpful? Yes

The tour itself was enjoyable overall, but there was one problem it began 30 minutes later than the scheduled time listed when we booked. We reached out to support, and they informed us that the tour had been delayed. It would have been helpful if we had been notified about this change in advance.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was good overall, but the Cistern was quite crowded. We also lost track of our guide for a short period, which was a bit frustrating.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was great, and the guide was very well-informed.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was really informative. Our guide, Hakan, shared insights that you can't find online.

Helpful? Yes

The tour was great, and skipping the line was definitely a bonus.

Helpful? Yes

The guide provided valuable insights that you can’t find elsewhere. However, there was no explanation given inside the cistern itself.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is truly remarkable and definitely worth visiting. However, I had expected more detailed information and a better presentation from the guide.

Helpful? Yes

A must see. Absolutely magnificent. The organization was perfect.

Helpful? Yes

A fantastic experience, particularly with the skip-the-line ticket. The guide was both informative and engaging, managing to keep it interesting without ever feeling dull.

Helpful? Yes

Incredible location, and the skip-the-line ticket was definitely a huge advantage.

Helpful? Yes

It was great not having to wait in line, and the guide provided us with a clear explanation and history of the cisterns.

Helpful? Yes

It was a brief but enjoyable tour with an excellent guide who shared plenty of historical insights. Our group had about 12 people, and while it was a bit challenging to catch every detail due to the crowds, we’d definitely book again.

Helpful? Yes

A truly one of a kind place to explore. The guide offered only a brief overview, but the highlight is definitely the ability to skip the line, even though it wasn’t really needed on that day. The best part is that you can spend as much time inside as you wish.

Helpful? Yes

We got quite bored with the guide's constant talking; he seemed to struggle with his words, and my teenager lost interest completely. In the end, we decided to explore on our own. It's a pity because the history would have been fascinating to hear if he hadn’t stumbled over so many parts of his explanation.

Helpful? Yes

It was a good experience overall, even though it was a bit tricky to locate the meeting point. Once we found it, the guide was friendly and well prepared. I would recommend that she speaks a bit more slowly to ensure everyone can follow along. The place itself is absolutely incredible and definitely worth visiting.

Helpful? Yes

It took us quite a while to locate our tour guide, but once we did, he gathered everyone and led us to the Basilica Cistern.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern was definitely a standout for us and is a must see. However, I’m not sure it’s necessary to have a guide for the visit. It might be better to explore it independently. Regarding the tour logistics: the meeting point was at the Cisterna’s exit, and we were then promptly split into different groups with various guides. Everything went smoothly, but honestly, we didn’t really need the 10 minute explanation inside the cistern. The acoustics were poor, so it was hard to catch much of what was said. After that, we had some free time to explore on our own, and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Helpful? Yes

An unusually beautiful place. The explanations were straightforward and just enough for me. I’d definitely recommend it.

Helpful? Yes

This is a must-see location. By incorporating modern art into the Basilica Cistern's interior, it’s brought a fresh perspective, connecting both the 6th and 21st centuries. However, it seems challenging to manage large groups effectively, as there was only one guide, and his voice couldn’t be heard clearly due to the noise and the number of people present. Perhaps guides could offer an introduction outside the cistern before entering, to avoid this issue. Hussein, our guide, was excellent and addressed all our questions with great knowledge. Thank you.

Helpful? Yes

The guide provided a thorough explanation that lasted around 10-15 minutes, after which we were free to explore and walk around the cistern at our own pace.

Helpful? Yes

It was definitely worth skipping the long line. The signage inside the cistern was quite informative and provided a lot of interesting details.

Helpful? Yes

The experience was great, but unfortunately, I couldn't hear the guide very well since I was at the back of the group, and there were kids trying to get his attention. However, overall, it was still a really good experience.

Helpful? Yes

A fascinating location to visit.

Helpful? Yes

Quite remarkable. The guide was friendly and well-informed.

Helpful? Yes

The place is stunning, but the explanations were lacking. The quality of the guides varied.

Helpful? Yes

A great way to skip the lines, and I also learned a lot about the history from an experienced guide.

Helpful? Yes

I agree that it would be ideal to get most of the information before entering the Basilica, given the large crowds and the echo inside. The guides were knowledgeable and responded to all our questions. After their explanation, we were free to explore on our own and leave whenever we wanted. While skip-the-line may not be essential during this season due to the crowds, it was certainly useful to learn about the history.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica is stunning, definitely one of the most breathtaking sights to experience.

Helpful? Yes

Having an introduction before the visit is really helpful.

Helpful? Yes

The Basilica Cistern is definitely a place you should see! Using the skip the line ticket was great as it saved us from waiting in a long and exhausting line at the entrance. I highly recommend booking in advance for this reason. On the downside, the guide only provided a short 10-minute explanation and then left us to explore on our own. Unfortunately, he seemed frustrated and was not available to answer any additional questions or provide further details. It was a bit disappointing, but the experience itself and the surroundings were unforgettable.

Helpful? Yes

This service is definitely worth using, especially to avoid the long wait at the ticket counter.

Helpful? Yes

The atmosphere is quite captivating, and I would definitely recommend a visit. While a guide isn't necessary, they did share some fascinating details that added to the experience.

Helpful? Yes

It's a lovely spot to visit, and we were happy to bypass the long queue. Unfortunately, the guide didn’t provide much information, and it was nearly impossible to hear her inside the cistern due to the noise. It would have been more helpful if some background details were shared before we entered.

Helpful? Yes