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Tours/Istanbul/Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line

Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line

5.0(273)Istanbul2h 40min
VIATOR4.9(63)TRIPADVISOR5.0(210)
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
+9 photos
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line

At a glance

Duration
2h 40min
Price from
$57 / person
Location
Istanbul, Türkiye
Rating
5.0 / 5 · 273 reviews
Languages
EN
Group
Private
Cancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
Confirmation
Instant
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operator
SIYA SEYAHAT OTELCILIK TURIZM TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI
Meeting point
Meet your tour guide at the entrance of Basilica Cistern ( We will contact to you before your starts for more information )

Description

Discover the captivating history and architectural wonders of Istanbul with our tour that takes you on a journey through the mysterious Basilica Cistern and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Our tour begins at the breathtaking Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel that dates back to the 6th century. Discover the ingenuity of Byzantine engineers who constructed this colossal subterranean reservoir, capable of holding over 80,000 tons of water. Our next stop transports you to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Admire the palace's distinctive architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. Explore the Harem, the most intimate and secluded part of the palace, where sultans and their families resided. Discover the secrets, intrigues, and luxurious lifestyles of the Ottoman royalty as you wander through these opulent chambers.

Schedule & prices

Runs
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, and Sun
Start times
9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 2:00 PM
Next available
Fri, Oct 9
Adult (ages 12+)
$57
Child (ages 2–11)
$34
Infant (ages 0–1)
Free

Prices are per person when two book together; a solo traveller pays $113.

Larger groups pay less per person.

From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 8.

Tour Options

Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line

Itinerary

Basilica Cistern
Admission not included40 min

After you meet your tour guide at the entrance of Basilica Cistern where Privileged Entry. Start to explore the ancient underground world of the Basilica Cistern on this private guided tour. Built in the 6th century, this mysterious subterranean chamber once held water for the city's palaces and gardens. Now, you can wander through its dimly lit passages and marvel at the stunning Byzantine architecture, including the rows of marble columns and the eerie Medusa heads at the base of two pillars. Your guide will share fascinating stories and historical facts about the cistern, bringing this hidden gem of Istanbul to life.

TopkapI Palace
Admission not included120 min

You will walk to Topkapi Palace with your tour guide. Step back in time and experience the opulence of the Ottoman Empire on this private guided tour of Topkapi Palace. From the ornate gates to the sprawling courtyards and opulent chambers, every corner of this palace complex exudes grandeur and extravagance. See the dazzling jewels and treasures of the sultans in the Treasury, admire the stunning architecture and design of the Harem, and stroll through the serene gardens and pavilions. Your expert guide will provide insights into the history and culture of the palace, making this a truly unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that both the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace are popular tourist attractions, so it's a good idea to book your tour in advance and arrive early to avoid crowds. And make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there's quite a bit of walking involved in this tour.

What's included

Included
Topkapi Palace with Harem Guided Tour
Basilica Cistern Guided Tour
Professional Licensed Tour Guide Fee
Not included
Hotel pickup
Topkapi Palace with Harem
Basilica Cistern

Traveller Ratings

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

5.0
273 reviews
5
266
4
7
3
0
2
0
1
0

How it compares in Istanbul

  • Rated higher than 74% of 985 reviewed tours in Istanbul
  • Starting price $57 is close to the typical $57 for tours of similar length in Istanbul

Excurgo comparison of 3,623 Viator tours, recalculated daily.

Important Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • 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

Cancellation

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

1+ days before100% refund
0–1 days before0% refund

Frequently asked questions

How long does this tour take?

Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line lasts about 2h 40min. The itinerary has 2 stops.

How much does this tour cost?

Prices start at $57 per person for this Istanbul experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. That is the per-person price when two book together; a solo traveller pays $113. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.

What days does this tour run?

According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, starting at 9:30 AM, 10:30 AM, and 2:00 PM.

How much does this tour cost for children?

Children aged 2–11 pay from $34, adults from $57. Infants go free.

Can I cancel this 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 tour guide at the entrance of Basilica Cistern ( We will contact to you before your starts for more information ). Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.

What languages is this tour offered in?

The experience is available in EN.

Is this a private or a group tour?

It is a private experience: only your party takes part. Up to 7 travellers can book together.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Will my booking be confirmed immediately?

Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.

Is this tour worth it?

Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 273 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by SIYA SEYAHAT OTELCILIK TURIZM TICARET LIMITED SIRKETI.

Reviews(273)

Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor

$57/ person
5.0(273)
Duration2h 40min
LanguagesEN
ConfirmationInstant
Check availability on Viator →
Booked and paid on Viator.com
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before

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

No booking fees from Excurgo
Payment and confirmation are handled by Viator
Excurgo support

Excurgo earns a commission from Viator when you book through this link, at no extra cost to you.

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