Why choose this Istanbul tour ?

Experience Istanbul’s ancient splendor on our guided tour of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern. Skip the lines and uncover centuries of history with an expert local guide. Marvel at Hagia Sophia’s Byzantine and Ottoman mosaics, intricate stonework, and hidden stories. Descend into the Basilica Cistern to explore history, architecture, and the mysterious Medusa heads. Discover the Roman engineering that preserved this stunning underground marvel.

✅ Exclusive Skip-the-Line Access: Save time with priority entry to both Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern.

✅ Expert Local Guide: Benefit from immersive storytelling by a knowledgeable guide passionate about Istanbul’s rich history.

✅ Uncover Hidden Stories and Legends: Dive into the untold tales of Hagia Sophia and the mystery of the Medusa heads in the Basilica Cistern.

✅ Marvel at Historical Masterpieces: From intricate mosaics and stone carvings to ancient Roman engineering.

⏱️ Duration: +90 Minutes

✨ English

❌ Entry Tickets



Make the most of your Istanbul adventure

What makes Istanbul’s Iconic Duo: Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern a unique experience ?

Embark on a journey through time with the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern tour – an essential experience for travelers who crave more than the ordinary. Immerse yourself in the profound history and unparalleled architectural splendour with our tour. Take in the majestic beauty of the Hagia Sophia, its commanding presence adorned by time-honoured mosaics that whisper tales of a deep history. Immerse yourself in the symphony of interfaith unity expressed through the elaborate art and magnificent architecture of Hagia Sophia.

Then, go beyond the surface and venture underground into the shadowy charm of the Basilica Cistern. Moving among the damp columns, you can lose yourself in the endless maze of waterways and channels, while on a quest to find Medusa hidden in the depths of mythological stories. Led by our expert historian guide, prepare to delve into multitude of centuries, cultures, and more. Your unforgettable journey through these landmarks will leave you with a rich trove of tales to share. This unique tour is designed exclusively for those willing to step beyond the ordinary and delve into the extraordinary.

Tour Description & Additional Info:

  • 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 travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness


Options To Choose for Your Trip:

  • Istanbul’s Iconic Duo: Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern
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Istanbul’s Iconic Duo: Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern Inclusions:

Included with Your Ticket

  • 1 hour of active guiding at Hagia Sophia.
  • Headsets to hear the tour guide clearly for over 8+ groups.
  • Strategically scheduled our tours to avoid the busiest hours.
  • Upgraded Experience with Tech.
  • Skip the Lines at Basilica Cistern & Hagia Sophia.
  • 30 min. guiding for Basilica Cistern.
  • Head coverings for women (It’s 20 Turkish Liras or less than 1 $)
  • Entry Tickets

Trending Istanbul Nearby Tours Likely To Sell Out

Special Instructions:

    Tickets are priced at 50€ per person and must be paid to the tour guide before the activity begins during the meeting. Due to the museum’s pricing policies, we cannot predict future entry fees, and these are not included in our services. Please note that the entry price may vary on the day of your visit, so we may need to collect the current entry fee at that time. All guests should come prepared to pay in cash at the meeting point.
    The places mentioned in this program can be visited during the following tour hours (There won’t be any session on Tuesdays). Here is the timetable:
    Hagia Sophia: 9.00 – 16.00 (except Fridays*** and the sessions on Friday will be performed 16.00 o’clock.)
    Basilica Cistern: 12.00 – 13.00 – 14.00 – 15.00 (There’s 11.00 o’clock session on Fridays only.)

    Please be advised..

  • This Tour is Provided by atourguideinconstantinople.
  • Tour Timezone & Starts at Europe/Istanbul.
  • Mobile or paper ticket accepted.
  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
  • This Tour is Rated 5 Stars based on 2 valid reviews on VIATOR.
  • Minimum 1 Travelers is required to book.
  • Maximum 15 Travelers is accepted for booking.