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Where is the Basilica Cistern entrance?

The Basilica Cistern is one of the most important cultural landmarks of Istanbul. It is a testament to the impressive engineering mastery and architectural prowess of the Byzantine era. Read on to learn all about entering this stunning underground cistern in Istanbul.

Where is the Basilica Cistern?

Where is the Basilica Cistern?

Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Find on Maps

The Basilica Cistern is located just across the iconic Hagia Sophia. It is easily accessible by bus, tram, and taxi.

Basilica Cistern entrance

The Basilica Cistern has one main entrance. It is located near the famous Hagia Sophia on Yerebatan Caddesi street.

Basilica Cistern entrance explained: Location and getting there

Basilica Cistern entrance explained: Location and getting there

Disabled access

Disabled access
  • Disabled guests can enter the Basilica Cistern via the main entrance located near Hagia Sophia. 
  • While the entrance is wheelchair friendly, it is worth noting that there is only a single lift that can accommodate only one wheelchair at a time. You may have to wait for around 25-30 minutes to enter the Basilica Cistern in case there are other disabled guests in the queue before you. 
  • Additionally, there are no wheelchair services available inside the cistern, so you will have to bring your own wheelchair.

Queues at Basilica Cistern

  • Expect long queues at the entrance, especially during peak hours, weekends, and public holidays.
  • You may need to stand in the queue for around 30 to 45 minutes, so it is best to buy the Basilica Cistern skip-the-line tickets online.



Book your Basilica Cistern tickets

Skip-the-Line Tickets to Basilica Cistern
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Combo (Save 5%): Basilica Cistern + Hagia Sophia Skip-the-Line Tickets
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Istanbul Super Combo: Topkapi Palace + Hagia Sophia + Basilica Cistern Skip-the-Line Tickets with Audio Guide
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Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Hagia Sophia Guided Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets
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4 hr.
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Guided Tour of Basilica Cistern with Skip-the-Line Tickets
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Istanbul Combo: Basilica Cistern + Blue Mosque + Bosphorus Cruise Guided Tour & Tickets
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Istanbul MegaPass: Skip-the-Line E-Tickets for Top Attractions
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Istanbul Top Museums 3-Day Pass: Guided Tour + Entry Tickets & Free Bosphorus Cruise
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Frequently asked questions about Basilica Cistern entrance

How many Basilica Cistern entrances are there?

The Basilica Cistern has one main entrance located near Hagia Sophia on Yerebatan Caddesi street.

What is the average wait time at the Basilica Cistern entrance?

It can take anywhere between 30-45 minutes during rush hours and 10-15 minutes on a regular day at the Basilica Cistern entrance.

Which Basilica Cistern entrance do skip-the-line ticket holders use?

Basilica Cistern has a single main entrance used for all kinds of ticket holders.

How can I avoid waiting in line for a long time at the Basilica Cistern?

You can avoid waiting in lines at Basilica Cistern by buying the skip-the-line tickets online.

What are the Basilica Cistern timings?

The Basilica Cistern is open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM.

What time should I visit the Basilica Cistern to avoid waiting in line?

You should visit the Basilica Cistern early in the morning as soon as it opens or late in the afternoon to avoid waiting in line. You can also avoid waiting in line by visiting the attraction on a weekday.