Historic Guided Tour of Hagia Sophia & Basilica Cistern
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels with mild walking required
Overview
Discover Istanbul’s layered history with a small-group guided visit to the Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern, skipping lines and gaining deep cultural insights along the way.
Istanbul: Hagia Sophia and Basilica Cistern Guided Tour with Tickets
Discover the history of the Ottoman and Byzantine Empires with entry tickets.
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2-hour small group tour of Istanbul's iconic Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern, guided by a local expert. Skip the lines and delve into the rich history of the Ottomans and Byzantines, marveling at stunning architecture and intricate mosaics, while gaining insights to explore the city independently.
Join a 2-hour small group tour of Hagia Sophia and the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, led by an expert local guide. Enjoy priority admission to skip the longest lines at the ticket office and start learning about the fascinating lives of the Ottomans sooner.
Meet your guide in the Sultanahmet neighborhood at an easy spot for a walking tour of Istanbul’s greatest monuments. Begin your journey with the Basilica Cistern, also known as the “Subterranean Palace.” Discover its history, see the underground pillars, and learn about Byzantine architecture. Walk on wooden walkways over the water and view the famous upside-down Medusa heads.
Next, visit the Hagia Sophia with pre-reserved tickets and witness the most significant site of the Greek Orthodox religion in Istanbul. As you explore the interior, learn how it was converted into a mosque after the Ottoman conquest of Constantinople. Marvel at the stunning monument and its mixed elements mosque and a church coexisting side by side. Admire the basilica’s stunning dome, minarets, countless mosaics, paintings, and Roman columns. Discover how the impressive İznik tiles were added over time in the Mosque, how the stunning Virgin Mary mosaic was created, and why the Ottomans chose to bury their sultans in the courtyard.
Concluding in Sultanahmet Square, our tour leaves you equipped with ample knowledge and insights to navigate the enchanting streets of Istanbul independently. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of this historic city.
Adventure Tips
Book tickets in advance
Secure skip-the-line tickets before arrival to maximize your tour time and avoid long queues.
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Expect some walking on uneven surfaces inside the cistern and on cobbled streets outside.
Bring a light jacket
The cistern is cool and damp year-round, so layering helps maintain comfort.
Arrive 10 minutes early
Starting promptly ensures the full 2-hour tour experience without rushing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- House sparrows common around the sites
- Occasional urban cats spotted near the Basilica Cistern
History
The Hagia Sophia was the world’s largest cathedral for nearly a thousand years and reflects Istanbul's shift from Byzantine to Ottoman rule.
Conservation
Ongoing preservation efforts focus on protecting mosaics and stonework from humidity and tourist impact.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Istanbul
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Protect your feet while navigating varied surfaces inside and outside the sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during the tour, especially in Istanbul’s warm seasons.
all specific
Light jacket or sweater
Keep warm inside the cool, damp Basilica Cistern.
all specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture the stunning architecture and unique underground features.