Skip the lines and delve into the mysteries of Istanbul’s Basilica Cistern, an architectural marvel of the Byzantine Empire, guided by an expert who will bring its fascinating history to life.
Step into the cool, atmospheric depths of the Basilica Cistern, a subterranean structure that has captured imaginations for centuries. Originally constructed by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, this ancient water reservoir is a testament to Byzantine engineering genius. As you descend into this hidden world, your guide will share captivating stories about its construction, historical use, and rediscovery, immersing you in the fascinating history of the Byzantine and Ottoman eras.
Walking through the dimly lit arches and rows of stone columns, you’ll be awestruck by the symmetry and craftsmanship of this underground masterpiece. The Cistern features 336 marble columns, many adorned with intricate carvings. Among these, the mysterious Medusa heads stand out as iconic highlights. Their origins and purpose continue to intrigue historians and visitors alike, making them perfect subjects for photography and discussion.
The ingenious engineering of the Basilica Cistern is another aspect to marvel at. Designed to store and supply water to the city’s palaces and residents, this vast system showcases the brilliance of ancient architects and engineers. Your guide will detail the techniques used to build and maintain the structure over centuries, as well as its rediscovery and preservation as one of Istanbul’s most intriguing historical sites.
Adding to its allure, the Basilica Cistern offers a unique ambience. The reflective pools, dim lighting, and the soft sound of dripping water create an almost magical atmosphere, providing a serene escape from the bustling city above. It’s a place where history and tranquility merge seamlessly, offering visitors a rare opportunity to experience Istanbul from a different perspective.
With skip-the-line access, you can bypass the often long queues and dive straight into your exploration. Your professional guide will ensure you uncover all the hidden gems of the cistern, answering questions and sharing insights along the way. This efficient and thoughtfully designed tour is ideal for travelers with tight schedules or those looking to maximize their time in Istanbul.
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Nikolay Dimitrov - Bulgaria
10 March
Skipping the line was really beneficial since the queue was quite long when we visited. Having a guide explain the history made the experience even better. Our guide, who I believe was Mehmet, was friendly and shared plenty of information. I’d recommend this, especially during the busy season, to ...
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Ellie Watson - Australia
21 March
Very well organized, the guide spoke interestingly about the history. We recommend it.
All reviews are from verified customers who purchased the activity. Reviews can only be submitted after the activity takes place.
Overall Rating
4.3/5
Based on 417 Reviews
4.3/5
4.3/5
4.3/5
Skipping the line was really beneficial since the queue was quite long when we visited. Having a guide explain the history made the experience even better. Our guide, who I believe was Mehmet, was friendly and shared plenty of information. I’d recommend this, especially during the busy season, to save time.
Helpful? Yes
It would have been a better experience with a guide who had a stronger command of English.
Helpful? Yes
Very well organized, the guide spoke interestingly about the history. We recommend it.
Helpful? Yes
Everything went smoothly, and the group was small, with just five of us in total.
Helpful? Yes
The guide wasn't at the meeting point until 15 minutes before the scheduled start time, which made me nervous. However, the guide arrived 10 minutes before the start time with his flag, and everything went smoothly from there. It's a beautiful cistern, a must see. The guide provided us with some helpful explanations and answered our questions perfectly. I would definitely spend the extra money for a guide again, as he shared stories and tips on the best photo spots.
Helpful? Yes
Mehmet was an excellent and well informed guide. Entering the cistern was an easy and seamless experience.
Helpful? Yes
The organization was top notch. Given the long line at the entrance, the priority access ticket was well worth it. We saved around 20 minutes waiting. The guide's 30 minute presentation was clear and informative.
Helpful? Yes
Larger than I anticipated, and the dramatic lighting added a great touch. İt wasn’t too crowded. The layout was well designed and easy to navigate.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was brief, with the guide hurrying through the information in about 10 minutes. However, it was still a good choice since the entry line was extremely long skipping it saved a lot of time, which made it well worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide, Ceker, was fantastic. His English was very good, and he did a great job keeping everyone engaged and explaining things throughout the tour. At times, it was a bit hard to hear him due to the noise and crowds.
Helpful? Yes
There was no guide. My scheduled tour was no longer available. I was given tickets to the cistern instead, but I had originally booked a guided tour. Unfortunately, I didn’t bring headphones, so I couldn’t use the alternative pre-recorded audio option.
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided a helpful 30 minute overview of the Cisterns and their historical background. He was very supportive throughout. After the introduction, we had unlimited time to explore the site on our own. This tour offered an ideal mix of guided insight and independent exploration.
Helpful? Yes
It was an effective way to bypass the long line and enter quickly. However, the guide appeared disengaged and shared the information in a dull, impersonal manner. He mentioned being very tired that day, which clearly impacted his delivery. Still, I believe a tour guide is like a performer and should bring energy and presence to every tour.
Helpful? Yes
The experience was good. The guide spent around ten to fifteen minutes providing an overview, after which we were free to explore on our own.
Helpful? Yes
Although we had a skip the line pass, we still waited over 30 minutes. Aside from that, the place was beautiful, and our guide was excellent. However, it felt somewhat pricey compared to what it offered.
Helpful? Yes
A thorough explanation covering the full history of the site.
Helpful? Yes
This is a must see attraction. The guide was very well-informed. The only downside was that the tour felt rushed due to the large number of visitors. I ended up pausing halfway through to take some photos with my wife and enjoy the moment.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide, Buse, was very well informed. The tour was enjoyable and lasted about 45 minutes. If you opt for the early tour, it’s less crowded and offers great opportunities for photos.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was excellent, particularly the skip the line feature since the queue was very long. The guide was fantastic, and overall, I have no complaints.
Helpful? Yes
We appreciated that the guide provided a full explanation to the group first, then allowed us to explore at our own pace. Plus, we avoided waiting in the long queue, which was a big bonus.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is stunning and absolutely worth seeing. The guided portion lasted just half an hour, during which the guide provided a lot of clear and easy to follow information. Afterward, we were free to explore the site at our own pace.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is stunning and absolutely worth seeing. The guided portion lasted just half an hour, during which the guide provided a lot of clear and easy to follow information. Afterward, we were free to explore the site at our own pace.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was fantastic very engaging and informative. It was a really fun experience overall.
Helpful? Yes
The guide did an excellent job explaining the history and legends of the Basilica Cistern, along with helpful tips on where to go and the best spots for photos. Truly a great guide!
Helpful? Yes
It was a fascinating experience. Ozzy is highly knowledgeable and brings a contagious energy to the tour. The visit doesn’t take too long, and while the entrance fee may seem a bit high, it’s still a must see. The restoration work, design, and lighting really enhance the overall experience.
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided an excellent explanation of the Basilica Cistern’s history and legends, along with clear directions on where to go and the best spots for taking photos. A truly great guide!
Helpful? Yes
The guide didn’t present the information in a very engaging way. He spoke for around 10 minutes and then left us on our own.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was very informative, and the skip-the-line tickets were definitely worth it!
Helpful? Yes
Ibrahim was an outstanding guide. Everything about the experience was excellent.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line ticket was very helpful. Our guide provided a 10 minute overview, and after that, we were free to explore the cistern on our own. Definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
The basilica was stunning and a joy to visit. However, the "guided tour" involved the guide speaking for less than five minutes at the start. We then spent the remainder of the time exploring on our own. It would have been better if the guide had walked with us and explained things throughout the tour.
Helpful? Yes
I gained a lot of insight into the cistern and its various roles throughout history. The tour guide was very well informed.
Helpful? Yes
It was a fascinating experience. We appreciated hearing the stories about the construction of the cistern and enjoyed the artwork on display.
Helpful? Yes
We really enjoyed the tour. The Basilica Cistern is stunning and definitely worth seeing! Our guide, Cem, was knowledgeable and friendly, answering all our questions. He also suggested some other great places to visit. Many thanks!
Helpful? Yes
The guide was quite unprofessional. Thankfully, I found him at the last moment since he had already gone inside. There was no communication beforehand, so you’re left guessing if he’s actually your guide. During the tour, he appeared very lazy and uninterested, which was disappointing because it was clear he didn’t enjoy the job. Honestly, the audio guide provided more information. He ended the tour abruptly, saying we were free to explore but that he couldn’t stay all day. He literally left after just 10–15 minutes. It was frustrating.
Helpful? Yes
Mehmet was warm and thorough, sharing many stories about both the Cistern and the city. We really appreciated the small group size.
Helpful? Yes
The site itself is truly incredible. Our guide wasn’t very friendly, and I had higher expectations for him. The audio tour, however, was quite good. Despite that, we had a wonderful time. It’s definitely a must see, and skipping the lines was a big plus.
Helpful? Yes
Beso, our tour guide, was excellent at explaining things clearly and looking after us. His explanations were very easy to understand.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was competent, but with our group of 17 and the acoustics inside, it was hard to hear him. The company should consider providing headsets or limiting group sizes to around 10. The tour consists of standing in a line while the guide talks about the history for about 30 minutes, then you explore the Cistern on your own. It’s best to book a skip-the-line ticket and bring headphones for the audio guide.
Helpful? Yes
The price felt too high considering the short duration of the activity, but overall, the attraction was enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
Our tour guide maintained a good pace and demonstrated strong knowledge. He even showed us illustrations and pictures during his presentation. A very pleasant person.
Helpful? Yes
We were really happy to have skip the line tickets once we saw how long the queue was.
Helpful? Yes
The guide performed excellently, and skipping the line made the visit much quicker. The Cistern itself is very impressive.
Helpful? Yes
It was amazing to witness such an ancient construction. The tour was brief, about 30 to 40 minutes, but definitely worth taking.
Helpful? Yes
It was helpful that the guide gave an introduction to the cistern. Mostly, you’re paying to skip the line, and in our view, it was worth it. A pleasant visit to a must-see historical site when in Istanbul.
Helpful? Yes
This tour was well worth the admission price, if only for skipping the extremely long lines and getting direct access to this must see attraction in Istanbul. The guide was friendly and well informed, making the experience enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
The visit was very interesting. However, the guide spoke quite fast, which made it hard for those who aren’t native English speakers to follow along.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is absolutely worth visiting and stands out as a highlight. However, the tour guide delivered information for about 25 minutes while standing in one corner of the cistern, speaking quickly and at times unclearly. Compared to other tours we took the day before, this one didn’t feel worth the price.
Helpful? Yes
The only real advantage was avoiding the long wait in the regular line. Once inside, the guide took us to a corner to explain the history of the Basilica, but it was difficult to hear him. Had the audio been clearer, the experience might have been better.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica itself was incredible, and our guide shared some interesting facts. However, the tour felt quite rushed.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was fantastic and provided a lot of valuable information.
Helpful? Yes
It was a very informative experience. Ibrahim was patient and took the time to answer all the curious travelers' questions.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide seemed more focused on checking the time and hurrying through the tour. At times, he had to be reminded to face the group, as he would speak with his back turned while explaining parts of the stone pillars. His English pronunciation was also difficult to understand. It's unfortunate, especially given how impressive the cistern itself is.
Helpful? Yes
The cistern is truly impressive, but using headphones would have made the experience better. Due to the large number of people, it was quite noisy, and it was sometimes difficult to hear or understand the guide.
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided valuable insights, and her explanations were clear and informative.
Helpful? Yes
The guide seemed reluctant during the visit and kept his sunglasses on inside the cistern. It felt disrespectful not to maintain eye contact while speaking. If there was a reason for it, a simple apology would have been appreciated.
Helpful? Yes
The audio guide link provided more useful information than the brief few minutes our tour guide spent explaining. It was an okay experience but didn’t feel like great value for the price.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was beautiful; the Basilica Cistern is truly an incredible place. Definitely worth a visit, and the whole experience was well organized.
Helpful? Yes
The price felt too steep for the short visit, especially since the guide seemed inexperienced and gave vague, confusing information. He also didn’t offer satisfactory answers to our questions. Overall, the guide appeared unprepared.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was knowledgeable, took time to answer questions, and provided explanations when needed. He demonstrated a strong understanding of history.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was good, but the echo and noise made it difficult to hear the guide clearly. Using headphones would improve the experience.
Helpful? Yes
The quick check in process was convenient and efficient.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was very thorough during our walk together.
Helpful? Yes
A magnificent historic basilica, famously featured in international films like James Bond 007. It’s an essential masterpiece to see while visiting Istanbul. Make sure to experience it and be impressed.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was excellent, and the location itself was very interesting.
Helpful? Yes
Walking through the cisterns was interesting, though the activity was quite short.
Helpful? Yes
Check in was easy, and since our guide had our tickets, we were able to skip the long queue, which was great given the warm weather. Mehmet was very informative and gave an excellent talk about the cistern’s history before letting us explore on our own. Definitely a thumbs up experience!
Helpful? Yes
Wonderful experience. I really loved the Basilica Cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The visit went without any issues. We were asked to meet the guide at the exit, and he was there as planned. Everything matched our expectations. The area is beautiful and definitely worth visiting. If you take your time, the tour lasts about 45 minutes.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was well informed and led the tour professionally, maintaining a comfortable pace throughout.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is stunning. However, we struggled to hear our guide. The entire visit lasted about 40 minutes, which was shorter than I expected. The guide gave a brief introduction at the start but then left us to explore on our own, only returning for questions. I would have preferred a full guided tour with explanations throughout. The audio guide is helpful but there’s no signal inside, so it’s best to access it before entering.
Helpful? Yes
It was a beautiful venue with an ideal location. The guide was knowledgeable and answered all our questions. Overall, we had a wonderful time!
Helpful? Yes
I purchased a tour in Spanish, but it was actually conducted in English. The guide’s only response was to offer a refund, which we accepted.
Helpful? Yes
Paying a bit extra to skip the line was definitely worthwhile. The guide showed us around the building, shared some explanations, and pointed out the best spots for photos. There’s also an audio tour, but we didn’t feel it was needed. Truly an incredible experience.
Helpful? Yes
A fantastic tour led by an outstanding guide.
Helpful? Yes
Buse was a wonderful guide. However, I’ve visited the cistern before, and the lighting was much better then. It seems like they might be trying to save electricity now. Also, some of the artwork has been taken down.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was friendly and knowledgeable. I learned a lot about the history of the cistern that I wouldn’t have known without a guide.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern was truly incredible. However, the guide provided very little information. He pointed out where to see the Medusa’s Head, but once we finished, he left without telling us the tour was over. It felt like we could have done the visit just as well without a guide.
Helpful? Yes
It was perfect! The guide led us through all the history, showed us different areas of the basilica, and explained the details thoroughly. He was very knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. I highly recommend this to everyone!
Helpful? Yes
A stunning location with plenty of great photo opportunities.
Helpful? Yes
Be cautious upon arrival, as people outside will try to approach you pretending to help but are not connected to the tour.
Helpful? Yes
Initially, I didn’t like that she delivered all the information within 15-20 minutes and then didn’t guide us around to show the details of the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
You can skip the line and pay less than this tour. When we visited, there were no crowds. We didn’t have a tour guide just tickets and we read the information displayed around the basilica ourselves.
Helpful? Yes
Before the tour started, the guides seemed quite disorganized, sending people in different directions. You’d expect better coordination since this happens daily. However, the tour itself was very good.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent explanation and a fantastic female guide!
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is definitely worth visiting, especially with skip the line tickets since it’s a popular spot. One issue was that it was sometimes hard to hear the guide in the noisy, crowded space, even though she used a microphone system. It was great to be able to stay and explore as long as we wanted after the tour ended.
Helpful? Yes
The directions to the meeting point were a bit confusing. While waiting for our guide, we were approached a few times by people trying to get us to visit their shops something to watch out for. Aside from that, the tour was good.
Helpful? Yes
The experience was positive because useful information was provided throughout.
Helpful? Yes
The visit was somewhat pricey, but the interior is truly amazing.
Helpful? Yes
This was a self guided tour using skip the line tickets, but the instructions were unclear. While the skip the line access was convenient, the price felt high for what was provided.
Helpful? Yes
It was nice to skip the line, but our “guide” only showed up to hand us tickets. We were told that guided tours now only happen at 4 pm. After some insistence from me and another couple, he gave us a brief 10 minute explanation once inside and then left us to explore on our own.
Helpful? Yes
The place itself is fascinating like an underground labyrinth but the overall experience was underwhelming. It’s relatively expensive for what you get. Our guide spoke only in English and gave a quick 10 to 20 minute explanation, which wasn’t very engaging or detailed. If you’re not fluent in English, it’s hard to follow. Sure, you skip the long lines, but the content doesn’t really match the price.
Helpful? Yes
It was overcrowded, and after the initial stop, our guide disappeared and barely interacted with us. It felt more like a ticket hand off than an actual guided tour. For the price, I expected more engagement and guidance throughout.
Helpful? Yes
It was nice that we had unlimited time to explore the cistern after the tour.
Helpful? Yes
The site itself was fantastic. Considering the long lines at the entrance, having skip the line access is definitely essential.
Helpful? Yes
The guide showed up about 10 minutes late, and in the end, the ticket line wasn’t very long either.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line feature worked perfectly, and everything was managed efficiently. The only downside was that the guide's loud voice made it a bit difficult to hear properly. With the crowd size, this is understandable and not a criticism of the guide just something to keep in mind.
Helpful? Yes
We got through the line and received a short overview from the guide once we reached the main platform below. After that, we were free to look around independently. There's a free audio guide available via an app (you just need to register with IstanbulWifi). The audio commentary really added to the visit! All in all, it’s a wonderful site to explore.
Helpful? Yes
The guide arrived late. We entered the cistern with the group, and he shared a few details but then moved through the cistern without pausing, leaving everyone unsure about where the key sights were. After that, we never saw him again.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is truly magnificent! However, our guide stayed with us for only about 10 minutes. I wouldn’t suggest taking a guided tour here since you can experience everything just as well with a regular entrance ticket.
Helpful? Yes
The tour provided good information and the explanations were clear and well delivered.
Helpful? Yes
The tour guide mostly ignored me and was difficult to hear inside, so I ended up exploring by myself. Still, I’m glad I was able to skip the line.
Helpful? Yes
It was difficult to hear the guide at times due to limited space and the large group. If you got stuck behind slower visitors, it was hard to catch what was being said. An audio system or microphone with earplugs for the group would improve the experience.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was competent but provided only limited information; I wish there had been more detail. The basilica itself is truly magnificent. However, the entrance fee felt somewhat pricey.
Helpful? Yes
We purchased skip the line tickets with a guide, but ended up waiting over 30 minutes in line, while many other groups went ahead of us. So, it didn’t really feel like we skipped the line. The worst part was that once we got inside, our guide vanished without saying anything, leaving us without any actual guided tour. It was quite frustrating!
Helpful? Yes
Many thanks to our guide today! Although he was very busy, he delivered a genuinely engaging tour. My three children, including our 8 year old, were captivated by his stories and never found them dull. The only suggestion for improvement would be to provide headphones, as even with a loud and clear voice, some people in the group might miss important details.
Helpful? Yes
There were many people waiting at the meeting spot before the guide arrived. When we asked other guides, they mentioned this is a common issue with this particular tour and guide. Fortunately, he showed up about 10 minutes before the tour started. My booking instructions advised arriving at least 15 minutes early, but the guide wasn’t there at that time.
Helpful? Yes
A wonderful basilica, a must see if you are in Istanbul. There were too many people, the guide had a hard time keeping the group together until the entrance. The ticket was expensive like all tickets in Istanbul, but worth the expense.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was friendly, but at times 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 friendly. The interesting facts shared really enhanced the overall experience.
Helpful? Yes
It was fantastic to skip the long queue and enter once everyone had gathered. The guide shared some interesting details, but with so many people and other tours speaking loudly on the platform, it was sometimes difficult to hear or understand everything. The audio guide was much clearer and provided a helpful summary as we explored.
Helpful? Yes
Everything went smoothly and the experience was very good overall.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was fantastic! Our guide was very knowledgeable and made the history of the Basilica Cistern come alive. Skipping the long lines was a huge plus. Highly recommended!
Helpful? Yes
Loved every moment of the tour. The guide was friendly and informative. It was a great way to avoid the crowds and get detailed insights into the cistern’s history
Helpful? Yes
Amazing experience! The skip the line ticket saved us so much time, and the guide’s stories were captivating. The cistern itself is breathtaking.
Helpful? Yes
Well organized tour with a passionate guide. I learned so much and really enjoyed the atmosphere. Would do it again!
Helpful? Yes
Great way to explore a historic site without waiting forever. Our guide was patient and answered all questions thoroughly.
Helpful? Yes
The guide gave a perfect balance of history and fun facts. Perfect for history lovers.
Helpful? Yes
We had a small group which made the tour feel personal. The guide was enthusiastic and very knowledgeable. Highly recommend this tour.
Helpful? Yes
A memorable experience with detailed explanations and plenty of time to explore after the guided part. Skip the line is worth every penny.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was very professional and the tour was well paced. Getting in quickly with the skip the line ticket made the visit stress free.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was very informative and the skip the line ticket was helpful. The guide spoke clearly but sometimes it was hard to hear because of the crowd.
Helpful? Yes
Good tour overall, though the group was a bit large which made it harder to hear the guide at times. Still a great experience.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was knowledgeable and friendly.Would recommend with a small group.
Helpful? Yes
The guide gave good explanations, though sometimes rushed a bit.
Helpful? Yes
The tour covered the main highlights well. I wish the guide had spent a bit more time on some sections.
Helpful? Yes
A good tour with interesting information, but the group was quite noisy at times making it hard to hear.
Helpful? Yes
We enjoyed the tour, but some parts felt a little rushed. Still worth it to skip the line though.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was friendly and shared a lot of facts. The skip the line ticket was definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Well organized tour and the guide was helpful. Would recommend for a first visit.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was polite but didn’t offer much detail. The site is beautiful though
Helpful? Yes
It was okay but felt rushed and a bit chaotic at times.
Helpful? Yes
The information was very basic and left me wanting more.
Helpful? Yes
The group was too large to hear the guide properly.
Helpful? Yes
A decent way to see the cistern but the experience was underwhelming.
Helpful? Yes
The location is stunning, and the guide really knew the history well. We saved so much time thanks to the skip the line ticket.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent tour! The guide was friendly and engaging. Would recommend to anyone visiting Istanbul for the first time.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line ticket made the whole experience so much easier, and our guide was excellent in answering all questions.
Helpful? Yes
Great storytelling and fascinating history. The tour was informative and enjoyable throughout.
Helpful? Yes
Very well organized, and the guide was great at keeping everyone interested. Loved the detailed background about the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
A beautiful and mysterious place. The guide’s explanations helped us appreciate it even more.
Helpful? Yes
The best way to visit the Basilica Cistern without wasting time in queues. Our guide was knowledgeable and very friendly
Helpful? Yes
The tour was rich in historical facts and the skip the line ticket made the visit smooth and enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was clear and enthusiastic. The skip the line ticket saved us a lot of time and stress. Highly recommend.
Helpful? Yes
I loved how the guide explained the legends and facts. The cistern is amazing, and skipping the line is definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Good pace and informative guide, though the crowds made it a bit challenging to follow at times.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line ticket worked well and the guide was knowledgeable. Could have been a bit more engaging.
Helpful? Yes
A solid tour with useful information. The entrance was quick and easy with the ticket.
Helpful? Yes
Interesting tour, but the guide’s voice sometimes didn’t carry well in the echoes of the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided a good overview but didn’t spend much time on details. Still enjoyed the visit.
Helpful? Yes
It was a nice experience, though the group size made it hard to hear everything.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line ticket saved time, but the guide could have been more enthusiastic.
Helpful? Yes
Enjoyed the tour and the history shared, but it felt a bit rushed in places.
Helpful? Yes
Good tour with clear explanations. The cistern itself is beautiful.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was friendly but spoke quietly, so it was sometimes difficult to hear.
Helpful? Yes
A pleasant tour and skip the line ticket made it hassle free.
Helpful? Yes
The information was good but could have been delivered with more energy
Helpful? Yes
The tour was informative, but the group size affected the experience slightly.
Helpful? Yes
A well planned tour, but the guide could have been more engaging.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was enjoyable and the skip the line ticket was definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Good explanations, but the acoustics inside made it hard to hear at times.
Helpful? Yes
The guide gave a good overview but wasn’t very interactive.
Helpful? Yes
A solid tour, just wish there was more time for questions
Helpful? Yes
Overall a positive experience, though some parts felt a bit rushed.
Helpful? Yes
Nice historical site and smooth entry. The guide gave some good facts.
Helpful? Yes
The guide gave limited information and left us to explore alone quickly.
Helpful? Yes
The site was impressive but the tour was disappointing.
Helpful? Yes
The guide didn’t explain much, and it felt rushed.
Helpful? Yes
The audio guide might have been better than the live guide.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was very brief and left me wanting more information.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was okay but felt a bit rushed and the guide didn’t provide much detail. Still, skipping the line was convenient.
Helpful? Yes
I expected more from the guide; he seemed distracted and the explanations were quite short. The place itself is impressive though.
Helpful? Yes
Good experience overall, but the group was quite large and it was sometimes hard to hear the guide. Worth the skip the line ticket.
Helpful? Yes
The site is beautiful, but the guide wasn’t very engaging and the tour felt too brief.
Helpful? Yes
Helpful guide and smooth organization, but I wish the tour had lasted longer and covered more details.
Helpful? Yes
Interesting place, but I felt the guide didn’t explain enough. Audio guide might be better here
Helpful? Yes
The tour was fine, but our guide arrived late and rushed through the explanations. Still, skipping the queue was great.
Helpful? Yes
Well organized entry and the cistern is amazing, but the guide lacked enthusiasm. Could have been more informative.
Helpful? Yes
A good tour but the group size was too big for me to hear everything clearly. Skip the line was definitely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was a bit disappointing . We got a brief intro then were left alone. The cistern is beautiful but deserves a better guide.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was informative but could be improved with better sound equipment or smaller groups.
Helpful? Yes
The meeting location was perfect and easy to find. Our guide was knowledgeable and shared plenty of interesting facts about the basilica and the legend of Medusa. I really valued the introduction given before we entered. İt added context and made the visit more meaningful.
Helpful? Yes
A mix of positives and negatives. Great to skip the queue, but the tour guide was less than enthusiastic and the explanations felt rushed.
Helpful? Yes
The guide gave basic info but didn’t seem prepared. The skip the line ticket was the best part.
Helpful? Yes
I enjoyed the visit, but the guide’s voice was low and it was difficult to understand him at times.
Helpful? Yes
The ticket was useful, but the tour itself was quite short and the guide didn’t engage much with the group.
Helpful? Yes
Good overview but the group was noisy and it was hard to follow the guide’s explanations. Still, worth it for the skip the line.
Helpful? Yes
The tour started late and the guide seemed distracted. The cistern is worth seeing, but the tour left something to be desired.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was excellent, providing clear and engaging information. Overall, it was a wonderful and memorable experience.
Helpful? Yes
The tour itself was excellent, and our guide was very well informed. The only issue was the noise level it's quite crowded and loud inside. Providing guides with a headset and microphone would really improve the experience, as it would make it much easier for everyone to hear what’s being said. Equipping the staff with this gear would definitely enhance the overall service.
Helpful? Yes
I initially planned to either purchase tickets online or get them at the entrance. However, I discovered that the queue for both online and on site ticket purchases was equally long, stretching around the corner with about an hour’s wait in the sun. I noticed that the line for guided tours allowed for immediate access, which made a huge difference.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was excellent very knowledgeable and spoke perfect English. After the guided portion ended, we spent a bit more time exploring on our own. The Cistern is truly impressive and absolutely worth seeing.
Helpful? Yes
I arrived late, but the tour guide was still waiting for me at the meeting point and made sure I didn’t miss the tour.
Helpful? Yes
The guide shared a lot of valuable information throughout the tour.
Helpful? Yes
I had an amazing time. The whole experience was truly outstanding!
Helpful? Yes
The tour was very informative and provided great insights.
Helpful? Yes
The site itself was impressive. Our guide shared plenty of information at the start, and afterward, we were free to explore the facility independently. I chose not to use the audio guide during the visit.
Helpful? Yes
The tour went well overall, but it was difficult to understand much because of the noise level. Despite that, our guide was friendly and pleasant throughout.
Helpful? Yes
We had an amazing tour. Our guide, Denis, was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing his expertise. He was friendly and patient, and his English was excellent.
Helpful? Yes
The tour provided plenty of useful information and gave us the opportunity to explore independently afterward. I would definitely recommend it.
Helpful? Yes
The site was fascinating, well preserved, and clearly of significant importance. Our guide was well prepared and managed to keep everyone engaged throughout the visit.
Helpful? Yes
The place was magical and mysterious. The guide Busra was sweet and knowledgeable, we were only two and we really enjoyed her company.
Helpful? Yes
Mohammed was an outstanding guide with extensive knowledge about Istanbul’s cisterns. His insights revealed a fascinating history. Thank you for such an educational and truly magical experience!
Helpful? Yes
The guide was easy to spot, and the meeting point was straightforward to locate. We spent about 30 minutes with the guide learning about the history, followed by time to explore the site on our own.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide provided detailed explanations and patiently listened to all of our questions, answering each one thoughtfully. It was amazing to learn that this place holds small but valuable pieces of history worth discovering.
Helpful? Yes
Our tour guide was excellent friendly, knowledgeable, and very engaging. The basilica itself was truly stunning.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was fantastic and the location was incredible. Everything ran smoothly, and I would definitely recommend this experience.
Helpful? Yes
I was truly impressed by the Basilica Cistern tour! I went with my husband, mother in law, and brother in law. Since my mother in law uses a wheelchair, it was great that they had a lift to take her downstairs, and the new pathways made it easy to navigate. Our guide was very accommodating.
Helpful? Yes
This is a one of a kind place you shouldn’t skip.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line ticket was great, and the guide was very well informed. However, she didn’t accompany us throughout the entire visit, so we might have learned more if she had continued with us. Still, it was an excellent experience overall!
Helpful? Yes
Had a great time on the tour! The guide was really good and made the experience enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was excellent. Truly made the experience stand out.
Helpful? Yes
This tour turned out to be a surprisingly enriching experience, with impressive lighting effects that added to the atmosphere. The guide was highly informative and provided a detailed explanation before allowing us plenty of time to explore the area independently and take photos. I fully recommend this experience.
Helpful? Yes
It would be helpful if the guide or staff were easier to spot at the meeting location.
Helpful? Yes
Amazing experience overall. The guide was exceptionally kind and welcoming.
Helpful? Yes
If you're visiting Istanbul, the Cistern is an absolute must see. It’s truly a one of-a kind experience. Although we went during a busy hour and missed some of the ambiance that comes with a quieter moment, it was still completely worth it.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and shared the historical background with impressive detail and clarity. We were very pleased with the experience.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was excellent, punctual, and clearly well informed. The tour was engaging, and I appreciated his expertise thank you!
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was highly knowledgeable and shared a lot of interesting information. Throughout the tour, they remained exceptionally professional, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent tour. We were able to bypass the long line, which alone made the price worthwhile. The guide was engaging and clearly knew a lot about the site.
Helpful? Yes
Everything was great. The guide was easy to locate, and the site itself was truly impressive.
Helpful? Yes
One of the biggest advantages of booking this tour online is being able to bypass the regular line while still receiving some basic insights. It worked exactly as intended.
Helpful? Yes
It was an excellent experience overall. However, because of the large number of visitors and the noise, it was difficult to hear the guide clearly.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was really pleasant, and we didn’t have to wait in line at all.
Helpful? Yes
The experience exceeded all my expectations in every aspect!
Helpful? Yes
The cistern is truly remarkable and should be on the itinerary for anyone visiting Istanbul. Our guide was friendly and pleasant.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was enjoyable, but despite purchasing the skip the line ticket, we still had to wait before it began.
Helpful? Yes
I was very pleased with the tour; the guide provided clear and accurate information in easy to understand English. My only recommendation would be to allow some time at the end for questions. Once the guide finished, he left immediately without giving us a chance to tip him. I noticed a couple of people still holding their tips.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was okay overall. The guide knew a lot but seemed a bit rushed throughout the experience.
Helpful? Yes
Those who purchased tickets online had a priority line, which we didn’t have access to. Despite that, the tour itself was beautiful.
Helpful? Yes
For first-time visitors to Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern is definitely a must see at least once. It offers a unique walking experience. Be sure to download the full guide beforehand, as there is no 4G reception inside the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was conducted in English, but the guide only gave us a brief 5 minute explanation before leaving. The site itself is highly recommended and stands out as very different from other places we've seen. It’s also an excellent spot for photography.
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided an excellent explanation and clearly had a strong knowledge of the subject.
Helpful? Yes
The tour felt a bit short. I think it could have lasted 45 minutes instead of the listed 30.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was both informative and the guide was very friendly.
Helpful? Yes
The site itself is impressive, and the main benefit is avoiding the long queues. The tour includes a short introduction and history of the place in English, after which you can explore inside at your own pace without a guide. It would be helpful if they made it clear that the visit is only partially guided and entirely in English. Our guide was very pleasant.
Helpful? Yes
Our guide provided a lot of useful information and responded thoroughly to all our questions. It turned out to be a really engaging and memorable experience.
Helpful? Yes
The site was fascinating with impressive architecture. However, it was challenging to hear our guide clearly due to the presence of several other tours happening at the same time.
Helpful? Yes
If the line is long, the price is definitely justified.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was good, although it was quite noisy inside. Having the skip the line option was definitely a great advantage.
Helpful? Yes
The tour offered good value for the price. While the guide wasn’t very expressive, they completed their job adequately.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was helpful, though the site mainly consists of columns inside and wasn’t very captivating.
Helpful? Yes
It was okay, but nothing too special. The tour was basic and didn’t stand out much.
Helpful? Yes
The visit was somewhat interesting, but not as engaging as expected. It felt a bit rushed and lacked depth in the explanations.
Helpful? Yes
The Cistern itself is definitely worth seeing, especially as a break from the summer heat. However, the tour felt a bit underwhelming. The guide barely scratched the surface with historical context. We expected more depth. Booking in advance is necessary because of the long queues, but the tour itself didn’t add much beyond basic facts. An average experience overall.
Helpful? Yes
The organization was smooth, and skipping the line was definitely convenient. However, the guide’s explanation was quite short, and after a few minutes we were left to explore on our own. It felt more like an audio introduction than a proper guided tour. While the place itself is fascinating, I expected more interaction and depth during the visit.
Helpful? Yes
While the skip the line access and easy booking process were definite advantages, the overall tour experience was somewhat underwhelming. It was difficult to hear the guide properly, especially since we were a group of four only one of us could get close enough to catch what was being said. We managed by repeating the info among ourselves, but it felt like we were missing out. The site is impressive, but the guiding part could have been better organized.
Helpful? Yes
Our tour guide Buse was great and did a very good job explaining everything. However, I have to say the "skip the line" ticket felt unnecessary for a morning visit. There were barely any queues at that time, so paying extra didn’t really make a difference. It might be worth it later in the day, but for early tours, it seems a bit overpriced.
Helpful? Yes
The place itself was impressive and worth seeing, no doubt. However, the group size was a real issue there were about 30 of us, and that was just too many. It felt crowded and rushed, making it hard to enjoy the experience fully. It’s getting very busy overall, so I wish the tour groups were kept smaller.
Helpful? Yes
While I appreciated learning about the history of the cistern, the explanations were far too brief. It felt more like an introduction than a proper tour. The guide was friendly, but I was expecting a deeper dive into the site’s rich history. Honestly, it left me wanting more.
Helpful? Yes
The experience could have been much better if we were actually able to hear the guide. Because of the echo inside the cistern, most of what was said was lost unless you were standing right next to them. It’s a real shame for such a fascinating place. A simple solution like providing headsets or earplugs with receivers would make a huge difference.
Helpful? Yes
Unfortunately, the guide was quite underwhelming. He seemed to be rushing through his script without really engaging the group. He had some photos on his phone to illustrate the points, but barely made the effort to show them around, which felt careless. Given the large group size, he didn’t adapt his presentation style at all, making it hard to follow or feel involved. Definitely expected more professionalism.
Helpful? Yes
We ended up waiting longer than we thought we would kind of defeated the purpose of booking in advance. Not a bad experience overall, but definitely not as smooth or timely as advertised.
Helpful? Yes
It was short and sweet maybe a little too short. I would’ve liked a bit more detail or time with the guide. Still, the site itself is fascinating.
Helpful? Yes
Over too quickly. The place is amazing, but I expected a bit more depth from the tour. Still worth seeing once.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was nice and gave us good information, but it would’ve been much easier to find the group if the company had shared the flag or logo in the app beforehand. It was a bit confusing at the meeting point. Overall a decent experience, but could be better organized.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was kind and knew a lot, but the actual guided portion was quite short only about 10 minutes. After that, we were left on our own, which felt a bit underwhelming for a paid tour. The Basilica Cistern itself is stunning, no doubt, but I expected more from the tour experience. Skipping the long line was definitely the best part.
Helpful? Yes
The site was very beautiful, and the guide provided sufficient information. The most important thing was that we were able to skip the line and enter quickly.
Helpful? Yes
Amid the busy atmosphere, locating the tour guide was a bit challenging because he arrived later than the scheduled time. Nonetheless, the tour was straightforward fast entry, quick walkthrough, and a prompt exit as expected. The information shared was solid, and all questions were answered properly.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was generally enjoyable, but our main concern was that it began 30 minutes later than the time given at booking. When we reached out to customer support, they informed us that the tour had been postponed. It would have been much better if we had been notified about this change ahead of time.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was good overall, but the cistern was quite crowded. At one point, we lost track of our guide for a while.
Helpful? Yes
My trip to Turkey was fantastic both informative and enjoyable. The guidebook proved very useful for discovering activities and key sights. However, I felt that too much of the content focused on restaurant and accommodation suggestions. Since I can find up-to-date reviews online easily, I think the guidebook could reduce this “advertising” as it’s not the main reason I purchase a guide.
Helpful? Yes
It was a pleasant tour, and our guide had a wealth of knowledge about the site.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was highly informative. Our guide, Hakan, shared details that you won’t easily find online.
Helpful? Yes
The tour went well, and being able to skip the line was a big advantage.
Helpful? Yes
The guide shared valuable information that you wouldn’t find elsewhere. Inside the cistern itself, there was no additional explanation provided.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is truly stunning and a must visit. However, I had hoped for more detailed information and a better presentation from the guide
Helpful? Yes
A must see! Absolutely wonderful experience. Unfortunately, there isn’t an audio guide available in Italian. The organization was excellent!
Helpful? Yes
Our guide was well-informed and engaging, keeping the tour interesting without ever feeling dull.
Helpful? Yes
The experience was enjoyable and met my expectations.
Helpful? Yes
The site was incredible, and having a skip the line ticket made the entry much more convenient and time saving.
Helpful? Yes
This tour was fantastic! Skipping the long lines saved us so much time, and our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. We learned so much about the history and legends of the Basilica Cistern. Highly recommended!
Helpful? Yes
The best way to experience the Basilica Cistern! The guide was engaging and gave clear explanations throughout the tour. The skip the line ticket made everything so easy and stress free. A must do in Istanbul!
Helpful? Yes
Absolutely loved this tour! The guide was informative and patient, answering all our questions. The lighting inside the cistern created a magical atmosphere. Skipping the queue was a huge bonus.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent value for money! The skip the line ticket was worth every penny, and the guide’s storytelling brought the history to life. We enjoyed wandering around afterward at our own pace.
Helpful? Yes
A wonderful experience! Our guide was passionate and detailed, making the visit memorable. The skip the line option made it convenient, especially during busy times. I highly recommend this tour.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was very professional and made the history of the Basilica Cistern come alive with interesting facts and stories. Skipping the line really made the visit smoother. I would definitely do this again.
Helpful? Yes
What a stunning place! The guide’s explanations were clear and informative. A perfect combination for a great tour.
Helpful? Yes
I really appreciated the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude. This tour exceeded my expectations.
Helpful? Yes
Perfect tour for anyone wanting to explore the Basilica Cistern with a professional guide. The skip the line ticket was a lifesaver, and the guide gave us great photo tips as well. Highly recommended!
Helpful? Yes
This was a highlight of our Istanbul trip! The guide was engaging and provided fascinating insights. I would recommend this tour to everyone.
Helpful? Yes
This was an enjoyable and brief tour led by an excellent guide who shared plenty of historical details. Our group had about 12 participants, and it was sometimes a bit difficult to catch everything clearly due to the crowds in the area. Still, we would definitely consider booking it again.
Helpful? Yes
This is a distinctive spot worth seeing. The guide’s explanation was quite short, offering only minimal details. The main benefit is the skip the line access, although it wasn’t really needed on the day we went. Luckily, you're free to spend as much time inside as you wish.
Helpful? Yes
We ended up quite bored listening to the man speak. He struggled to find the right words, and my teenager completely lost interest in continuing. In the end, we chose to explore on our own. It’s a pity, because the historical content could have been really engaging if he hadn’t stumbled over his words so often.
Helpful? Yes
Overall, it was a positive experience, even though locating the meeting spot was a bit tricky. Once we arrived, the guide was friendly and well informed. I would recommend that she slow down her speech slightly to ensure everyone can follow along more easily. The site itself is absolutely stunning and definitely deserves a visit.
Helpful? Yes
It took quite a while for us to locate our tour guide, but once we did, he brought the group together and led us to the Basilica Cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern was definitely a highlight for us and is absolutely worth visiting.
Helpful? Yes
A uniquely beautiful place to see. The explanations were quite basic but enough for my needs. I would definitely recommend it!
Helpful? Yes
This is a must see location. The addition of contemporary art installations inside the Basilica Cistern has given it a fresh dimension, beautifully connecting the 6th and 21st centuries. It appeared that managing large groups was a challenge, as there was only one guide and it was difficult to hear him clearly due to the noise from the crowds. It might be better if the historical background were shared outside before entering. Our guide, Hussein, was excellent and did his best to answer all our questions thoroughly. Thank you!
Helpful? Yes
The guide provided a thorough overview, with the explanation lasting around 10 to 15 minutes. After that, we were free to walk through the cistern and explore the rest on our own.
Helpful? Yes
It’s definitely worth using the skip the line option to avoid the long wait.
Helpful? Yes
The experience was quite enjoyable overall. I had trouble hearing the guide since I was at the back, and there were some children trying to catch his attention, which made it a bit distracting. Still, it was a very good tour.
Helpful? Yes
Truly impressive experience. The guide was friendly and well informed.
Helpful? Yes
The place was very beautiful, but the explanations were lacking. The quality of the guides varied and wasn’t consistent.
Helpful? Yes
A great way to skip the line, and we also learned about the history from a knowledgeable guide.
Helpful? Yes
I agree that it’s better to get most of the information before entering the basilica because of the crowds and echo inside. The guides were knowledgeable and answered all our questions.
Helpful? Yes
The basilica is stunning truly one of the most beautiful sights to experience.
Helpful? Yes
A half hour tour provides ample time to see everything.
Helpful? Yes
Having an introduction at the start of the visit is a nice touch.
Helpful? Yes
The Cisterna is definitely a place worth seeing! Using the skip the line ticket saves you from the long and exhausting wait at the entrance, so I’d definitely recommend booking in advance. Unfortunately, the guide only provided a short 10 minute overview and then left us to explore on our own. He seemed quite irritated and wasn’t open to answering any additional questions, which was disappointing. Still, the visit itself was unforgettable.
Helpful? Yes
There’s a 15 minute historical overview, but the main benefit is skipping the line and getting inside quickly. Don’t forget to bring your phone there are plenty of great spots for photos.
Helpful? Yes
Definitely a service worth using, if only to avoid the extremely long wait at the ticket counter.
Helpful? Yes
The atmosphere is quite captivating, and I’d recommend visiting.
Helpful? Yes
It’s a cool place to see, and we were happy to avoid the line. 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 effective to share some background details before going underground.
Helpful? Yes
It’s decent value for the money. You’re paying about twice the cost of the regular ticket, and for that you get two things: 1) a guide who speaks for about five minutes before letting you explore on your own, and 2) the ability to skip the line which is definitely the biggest benefit, especially during the hot summer months.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is a stunning historical site, and we were glad to have the opportunity to see it. Inside the cistern, it was difficult to hear the guide due to the loud background noise, and she only spoke for about two minutes. In our group of 11, we had to show our proof of purchase to several different staff members before finally receiving our actual entry tickets.
Helpful? Yes
It’s helpful to know that all the tour guides carry tall red flags, making them easy to spot. You can go up to them for help and to be assigned to a guide. Ours was very friendly, but it was hard to hear what was being said once we were inside the Basilica.
Helpful? Yes
The Basilica Cistern is incredible definitely a place you shouldn’t miss. Getting your ticket online is a smart move, as it lets you skip the very long line. The guide was just okay; it was hard to hear him because the group was large and he wasn’t using a microphone or any kind of audio system. Providing earphones would really help. That said, if you have the chance, make sure to visit the Cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The cistern is absolutely one of the must see attractions, but the queue can be extremely long. If you have the chance to skip it by booking through a guided option like this, it’s definitely worth doing.
Helpful? Yes
With this package, you can skip the line outside the Basilica, which is a great advantage. The Basilica itself is well worth visiting. The only downside was that the guide didn’t speak Italian.
Helpful? Yes
The audio guide is available in English. It would be wonderful if they could also offer one in Spanish. Thank you very much.
Helpful? Yes
Overall, the ticket was definitely worth it, particularly because it allowed us to bypass the very long queue.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was really friendly and well informed.
Helpful? Yes
The tour consisted of a brief 5 minute explanation given at the entrance to the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The term ‘guided’ is a bit misleading. The guide only spoke for about five minutes at the beginning, and that was the extent of it. It didn’t feel like good value for the money.
Helpful? Yes
I found the tour to be a bit underwhelming. The guide rushed through the information and didn’t stay with us throughout the visit. In my opinion, it’s probably better to just buy a ticket and explore on your own.
Helpful? Yes
The guide didn’t use any audio equipment, and in the noisy environment of the Basilica, it was nearly impossible to hear anything he was saying.
Helpful? Yes
The best part is that you don’t have to wait in line.
Helpful? Yes
It’s easier to just queue and buy a ticket might take a little longer, but getting there early helps. The guide only gave a 10 minute talk at the start, and then you’re left to explore the cistern on your own. The place itself is incredible, but there’s really no need for a guide. You can read about it on Wikipedia and enjoy the visit.
Helpful? Yes
The tour provided only basic information, but the group was small, which was nice. Skipping the line made it worthwhile, and the guide was pleasant.
Helpful? Yes
The guided tour lasted around 15 minutes. Although the guide was very friendly, we had hoped she would stay with us longer. She shared all the information and then left after about 15 to 20 minutes. Since it was a skip the line ticket, we entered fairly quickly.
Helpful? Yes
You have the option to explore the tour on your own as well.
Helpful? Yes
It’s fine if your main goal is just to skip the line, which was really important for us.
Helpful? Yes
This isn’t really a full tour, but more of a guide who walks with you for about 15 to 20 minutes inside the Cistern, sharing some historical facts. It’s worth it if you want to skip the queue, as it truly acts as a fast pass.
Helpful? Yes
The Cistern itself was incredible and definitely a must see!
Helpful? Yes
The main benefit was just skipping the line.
Helpful? Yes
It was alright overall. Definitely worth it for skipping the queue. However, I couldn’t hear much of what the guide was saying, and the group felt too large.
Helpful? Yes
Since audio guide apps don’t work inside due to poor signal, as mentioned during booking, it would be helpful if the tour guide explained beforehand why it’s hard to hear inside because of the crowd and acoustics even when the group isn’t very large.
Helpful? Yes
We believed we had booked a private tour for our group of four, but it turned out to be much larger, making it hard to hear the guide. The guide did get us in ahead of the long line and was knowledgeable, but given the price, we expected more.
Helpful? Yes
The tour wasn’t very well organized. We waited at the meeting point, but the guide didn’t arrive on time, so we had to call. We didn’t get to hear the story because we were stuck in the queue. By the time we got inside, the guide had already finished the explanation. It could definitely have been better.
Helpful? Yes
The meeting point and entry process went smoothly, but once inside, it was nearly impossible to hear the guide because of the echoing acoustics of the cistern and the large groups of noisy schoolchildren. Still, the cistern itself was truly spectacular to see.
Helpful? Yes
The timing and organization were good, with a short general introduction lasting about 5 to 8 minutes. After that, everyone was free to explore at their own pace.
Helpful? Yes
This tour is mainly for skipping the line. You receive enough essential information upfront to explore independently afterward. The price is somewhat high compared to tours of other attractions that last longer. For me, saving time is important, so I purchased it knowing it costs about twice as much as the regular entrance ticket.
Helpful? Yes
The stunning lighting adds a truly magical ambiance to the place.
Helpful? Yes
At times, there were so many people packed in that I could barely move, with crowds pressing in from both sides. Being underground made it difficult to breathe, and I even had a panic attack.
Helpful? Yes
Finding the meeting point was simple, but the guides didn’t put in much effort. It’s a pity, as the site itself is truly magnificent.
Helpful? Yes
Hearing the live guide was a bit challenging, but the cistern itself was stunning. I also struggled with the downloadable guide on my phone and ended up stopping after just a few minutes.
Helpful? Yes
The tour guide stayed with us only briefly, and for this kind of day trip, it really isn’t worth the extra cost.
Helpful? Yes
The guided portion of the visit was quite brief, and the cost felt too high for what was actually included.
Helpful? Yes
Skipping the line and the overall tour experience were very good.
Helpful? Yes
Honestly, considering the guide’s low level of English and the fact that he barely raised his voice, making it hard to hear him, it would be better to just buy a regular ticket and explore on your own.
Helpful? Yes
Visiting the Cisterns was an exciting and impressive experience. However, the meeting point was somewhat confusing, and the guide didn’t share much beyond a brief mention of Medusa.
Helpful? Yes
The skip the line option didn’t really work we still waited about 30 minutes. The guide part wasn’t as described either, and the information provided was pretty underwhelming.
Helpful? Yes
The tour claims to help you skip a two hour line, but there really wasn’t a line at all. The guide didn’t provide much information either. If I were to go again, I’d just buy the tickets myself and visit independently it’s also more affordable that way.
Helpful? Yes
Skipping the line was definitely a big plus. The tour itself was short they gave a five minute overview at the entrance but didn’t walk through with us. I found the meeting point a bit hard to locate, but overall, it was worth it just for the skip the line access.
Helpful? Yes
It was helpful to skip the queue. The guide gave information inside the cistern.
Helpful? Yes
The place was too crowded for the guide to walk around with the group and provide a detailed explanation of this magnificent site. The main advantage of the tour is skipping the long line in favor of the shorter group and online ticket queue.
Helpful? Yes
Absolutely loved the experience! The guide was knowledgeable and friendly, and skipping the line saved us so much time. The cistern itself is stunning. Highly recommend!
Helpful? Yes
This was a fantastic way to see the Basilica Cistern without waiting forever in line. Our guide shared fascinating historical facts, making the visit even more memorable.
Helpful? Yes
A must do in Istanbul! The skip the line option really made a difference. Our guide was great and made the history come alive. The cistern’s atmosphere is incredible.
Helpful? Yes
Perfect tour for anyone wanting to explore the cistern efficiently. The guide was very informative and answered all our questions patiently. Highly recommend booking this!
Helpful? Yes
We enjoyed every minute! The group was small, the guide was engaging, and getting inside without waiting was a huge plus. The place is magical, don’t miss it!
Helpful? Yes
Great value for money and well organized. The guide explained everything clearly and the skip the line made the whole experience smooth and enjoyable.
Helpful? Yes
The highlight of our Istanbul trip! The guide’s stories made the history fascinating, and the cistern is beautiful. Skip the line if you want to save time!
Helpful? Yes
Very impressed with how smoothly the tour ran. The guide was friendly and knowledgeable, and the cistern’s atmosphere was breathtaking. Would definitely recommend.
Helpful? Yes
Loved the skip the line access and the detailed explanations from our guide. The cistern was even more beautiful than I imagined. Great tour!
Helpful? Yes
Our guide made the history of the Basilica Cistern really interesting. The skip the line was well worth it, especially during peak season. A fantastic experience overall.
Helpful? Yes
The tour was informative and well paced. Skipping the queue saved us hours! The guide was friendly and made sure we didn’t miss any highlights.
Helpful? Yes
Excellent tour! The guide was very knowledgeable and the group size was perfect. Getting in quickly with the skip the line was a big advantage.
Helpful? Yes
The guide was fantastic, full of interesting facts. The skip the line ticket was a lifesaver, especially on a busy day. The cistern itself is a must see.
Helpful? Yes
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