Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Tour Skip the Ticket Line

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1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
Offered in: English

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.

What's Included

Skip the line at the ticket gate of Basilica Cistern and Hagia Sophia
Licensed Guiding Service
Foods and drinks are not listed inclusion part.
Gratuities to the guide
Hagia Sophia entrance fee will be paid on-site
Basilica Cistern will be paid on-site

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Pudding Shop Lale Restaurant

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

End point
Basilica Cistern

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

Itinerary

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approximately)
  • 1
    Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque

    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 minutes • Admission ticket not included
  • 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 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Basis Travel

Tags

Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
Archaeology Tours
Religious Tours
Additional fees
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

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

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