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Daily Tours

Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour Skip the Ticket Line

5.0(1)IstanbulFree cancellationNew

About this activity

This is a fantastic small-group tour that allows you to explore the most popular sites in the Old Town, including the Hagia Sophia, and Basilica Cistern, all while skipping the ticket lines. Your official tour guide will take you inside each site, sharing detailed information so you can truly appreciate their beauty and significance. For a more tailored experience, you can choose the private tour option. Please note that entry fees are not included in the tour price. We will purchase the tickets in advance to skip the lines, and we kindly ask that you have the required amount in cash to give to your guide. You can pay in Euros, USD, or Turkish Liras.

Highlights

    What's included

    • Skip the line at the ticket gate of Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia
    • Licensed Guiding Service

    Not included

    • Foods and drinks are not listed inclusion part.
    • Gratuities to the guide
    • Entrance fees
    • Entrance fees

    Itinerary

    1. Hagia Sophia

      The Hagia Sophia was once the principal church for all Christians, and after the division in Christianity, it became the leading church for the Orthodox community. Following the conquest of Istanbul by the Turks, it was transformed into a mosque. Your guide will take you inside and provide in-depth information to help you appreciate its beauty even more. Please note that the entry fee is 25 Euros per person, and we will purchase the tickets for you to skip the line. Kindly have the amount ready in cash. starting 15th January 2024, Hagia Sophia entrance fee will be 25 Euros apply all foreginers.

      30 minutesAdmission not includedSee on map

    2. Basilica Cistern

      We're going to explore the Basilica Cistern, an ancient water storage system designed to withstand long sieges. With its vast size and 336 columns, it's often referred to as the 'Underground Palace.' It's not only a remarkable historical site but also offers a unique and fascinating experience beneath the streets of Istanbul."

      Please note that the entry fee is 1500 TL per person, and we will purchase the tickets for you to skip the line. Kindly have the amount ready in cash.

      25 minutesAdmission not includedSee on map

    Meeting point

    Meeting Poing is Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant. The restaurant is located on the street where the tram lines run through Sultanahmet, an approximately 1-minute walk from the Sultanahmet tram stop. We will be at the meeting point with yellow umbrella

    The map shows Istanbul. The exact meeting point is the address above.Open larger map

    Pickup

    • Everyone meets at the start point

    Drop-off

    • Tour ends in the Basilica Cistern and you can stay longer.

    Know before you go

    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Mobile or paper ticket accepted
    • One per booking
    • "We are looking forward to hosting you! Group tours kick off at 9:00 AM, while private tour guests can stick to their scheduled time. To ensure a hassle-free experience, your guide will handle purchasing all entry tickets in advance so you can skip the long lines. Please bring cash (TL, USD, or Euros) to reimburse the guide upon arrival. Current fees are 1500 TL for the Basilica Cistern and €25 for Hagia Sophia (subject to change by the authorities). Important Dress Code: Since we will visit several beautiful mosques, please dress modestly. Women should bring a scarf to cover their head, shoulders, and legs. Men should ensure their shorts cover their knees."

    Cancellation and refunds

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

    If you cancelRefund
    At least 1 days before100%
    Between 0 and 1 days before0%
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if the weather makes it unsafe
    • Cancelled and fully refunded if too few travellers book
    Supplied by
    Basis Travel
    Product code
    256205P8

    Customer reviews

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    Ratings from Viator 5.0 (1)

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    $39$36per person