Basilica Cistern
Basilica Cistern
Istanbul, Turkey
Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
Last updated: February 11, 2026
Overview
Huge underground Roman water source held up with 336 marble columns covering 9,800 sq. meters.
Opening Hours
Visitor Reviews
**★★★★★ Thuyen Vu — a week ago
This place is fantastic. Can't believe it was constructed thousands years ago. A truly magical place beneath the city. The Basilica Cistern has a mysterious, atmospheric vibe with its softly lit columns and reflections on the water. The Medusa heads are a highlight and make the visit unforgettable. Definitely worth seeing if you’re in Istanbul!
**★★★★★ Mir Ahmed — a week ago
The Basilica Cistern is a hauntingly beautiful subterranean wonder that feels like stepping into a different world. Descending into this 6th-century reservoir, you are greeted by a forest of 336 glowing marble columns reflected perfectly in the still, dark waters below. The atmosphere is cool, mysterious, and incredibly atmospheric, enhanced by the soft echoes of dripping water and subtle lighting. The highlight for most is reaching the far corner to see the two enigmatic Medusa heads used as c
**★★★★★ Amy Cosgrove — 2 weeks ago
Visited on a Friday about 10am during low season. It wasn’t busy at all, no like for tickets. Be advised, they only accept cards, NO CASH. I purchased the audio guide (400TL on sale) with my ticket, but the price was not commensurate with the content of the guide. I recommend reading about the place before going; it helped me to better identify the highlights of the structure. If you see nothing else in Istanbul, please make time for this place. Super worth it.
**★★★★★ Monica Echeverria — 3 weeks ago
The Basilica Cistern is one of the most interesting and atmospheric places in Istanbul. It’s a perfect mix of history and art, with a mysterious, almost cinematic vibe that completely pulls you in the moment you walk downstairs.
The lighting, the reflections on the water, and the endless columns create an incredible visual experience. It feels calm, cool, and slightly surreal—very different from everything above ground. There are great photo spots everywhere, especially around the famous Medusa
**★★★★★ Abraaz Ahmed Mahi — a month ago
A great structure to see in Istanbul.
Entrance and Exit: just at the slope adjacent to the tram line in the corner of Aya Sofia. Exit is through another area about 500 meters uphill. The issue is you have to take the stairs. Area is a bit wetted so be careful while stepping.
Worth for money. There is no difference at which time you are entering the underground cistern. Because it is under the ground and well maintained with artificial architecture lights. But, less people gathered there after
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