Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour
+4 photos
At a glance
- Duration
- 2h 30min
- Price from
- $85 / person
- Languages
- EN
- Group
- Small group, up to 8
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation
- Meeting point
- Meet your guide in front (outside) of FOODIE-IST CAFE AND BRASSERIE. It is approximately 2 minutes walking distance from (T1) Sultanahmet tram stop. Your guide will wear a tour guide badge and will be easy to spot.
- Confirmation
- Instant
Prices checked on Sep 12, 2026Things to do in Istanbul
Description
Uncover Istanbul’s legendary past on this 2.5-hour walking tour of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern, guided by a licensed local expert. This small-group experience is perfect for travelers who want to explore at an easy pace, ask questions freely, and avoid getting lost in the crowds. Entrance tickets are not included in the tour price, but your guide will assist you with purchasing them at the meeting point — making it quick, simple, and stress-free.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Step inside one of the world’s most historic landmarks — once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again. Marvel at its incredible dome, calligraphy panels, and surviving mosaics.
Descend into the magical underworld of ancient Constantinople. Walk among marble columns and spot the eerie Medusa heads that guard this sunken palace.
Highlights
Easy ticket purchase assistance at the start of the tour
Guided tour with a professional English-speaking guide
Small group experience (maximum 8 guests)
What's included
Included
Easy ticket purchase assistance at the start of the tour
Guided tour with a professional English-speaking guide
Small group experience (maximum 8 guests)
Not included
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Meals or drinks
If the all-inclusive option is not selected, the entrance fee of 80 EUR per person must be paid to the guide.
You can pay the ticket prices your guide in cash (EUR/USD or TL) or by credit card
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Frequently asked questions
How long does Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour take?
Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour lasts about 2h 30min. The itinerary has 2 stops.
How much does Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour cost?
Prices start at $85 per person for this Istanbul experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There are 2 booking options, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
Can I cancel Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour for free?
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Meet your guide in front (outside) of FOODIE-IST CAFE AND BRASSERIE. It is approximately 2 minutes walking distance from (T1) Sultanahmet tram stop. Your guide will wear a tour guide badge and will be easy to spot.. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
What languages is Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour offered in?
The experience is available in EN.
Is this a private or a group tour?
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 8 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Will my booking be confirmed immediately?
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Compare similar tours in Istanbul
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Byzantium Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Shared Tour | 2h 30min | — | $85 | |
 WONDERS of ISTANBUL : Full Day Private Guided City Tour | 5–7 hours | 5.0 (445) | $75 | View |
 Best of Istanbul 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour | 7–21 hours | 5.0 (10,115) | $100 | View |
 Istanbul Taste of Two Continents Food Tour - Spice Market & Ferry | 5h 30min | 5.0 (3,592) | $135 | View |
 ISTANBUL BEST: Iconic Landmarks Full Day PRIVATE Guided City Tour | 6–8 hours | 5.0 (1,478) | $85 | View |
 Istanbul Bosphorus Sunset Luxury Yacht Cruise with Snacks | 2h 30min | 4.9 (2,384) | $47 | View |
 Istanbul Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, Basilica Cistern with Tickets | 3 hours | 4.9 (131) | $135 | View |