[2025 Istanbul Attraction] Travel Guide for Basilica Cistern (Updated Jan)

The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Underground Water Palace, is a historical site in Istanbul, Turkey. Built in the 6th century, the cistern was originally a massive reservoir used to store drinking water for the city. The entire cistern is made up of dozens of underground pools, with the largest pool capable of holding over 8,000 cubic meters of water. The cistern is supported by 336 marble columns, each 9 meters high, arranged in 12 rows and 28 columns, resembling towering trees in a vast hall. Each column is intricately carved with beautiful patterns. The interior of the cistern is very humid, and the dim lighting adds to its mysterious atmosphere. Inside the cistern, there is a "wishing pool" with two large Medusa statues, placed sideways and upside down, with no known reason for their orientation.

Istanbul is a vibrant city that spans Asia and Europe, blending Eastern and Western cultures. Here are some travel tips: Must-See Attractions 1. Hagia Sophia: A historic museum and important monument from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. 2. Blue Mosque: Known for its striking blue tiles and six minarets, it's one of Istanbul's iconic buildings. 3. Topkapi Palace: The Ottoman Empire's palace, showcasing murals, weapons, tableware, jewelry, and more. 4. Grand Bazaar: One of the world's largest and oldest indoor markets, selling a variety of goods. 5. Bosphorus Strait: Take a cruise to enjoy the beautiful scenery and ancient palaces along the coast. 6. Basilica Cistern: An ancient underground reservoir with mysterious Medusa head columns. 7. Galata Tower: Offers a 360-degree city view, overlooking the Golden Horn and Bosphorus Strait. 8. Dolmabahce Palace: A late Ottoman palace with luxurious interiors. 9. Istiklal Avenue: A bustling pedestrian street in Beyoglu's city center, perfect for experiencing city culture. 10. Princes' Islands: A peaceful retreat, ideal for cycling and horse-drawn carriage tours. Itinerary Suggestions Day 1: Visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and Grand Bazaar. Day 2: Take a Bosphorus Strait cruise, visit Basilica Cistern and Galata Tower. Day 3: Explore Dolmabahce Palace, Istiklal Avenue, and Princes' Islands. Food Recommendations Turkish Kebab: Includes classic lamb skewers and meat patties. Turkish Pizza: Thin crust with various toppings. Baklava: A dessert with layers of pastry and sweet nut filling. Shopping Recommendations Arasta Bazaar: Buy cashmere shawls, jewelry, and Turkish towels. Zorlu Center: Buy high-end brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, etc. Istinye Park: Buy cosmetics and perfumes. Tips Istanbul's weather is changeable, so it's recommended to wear layers. Spring and autumn have pleasant weather, making them the best times to visit. Buying an Istanbul Pass can save time and money, avoiding long lines. I hope these tips help you plan an unforgettable trip to Istanbul!

It really resembles the scenes from some video games, or rather, many game scene designs are inspired by it. Just looking at it can remind you of certain levels. As for the history, it's true that you need to do some homework before going, or patiently read the on-site introductions (which mainly talk about Turkish hydraulic engineering). Many people don't think highly of it, finding it boring and not worth the ticket price, but if you're interested in the history of Istanbul, or if you like playing games and reading novels, the cistern is definitely worth a look. Here's a bit of history: The Basilica Cistern, known in Turkish as Yerebatan Sarnıcı, which means 'Subterranean Cathedral', was one of the sources of drinking water for the citizens of Istanbul 1500 years ago. It was built beneath a basilica, hence its name, initially constructed by Emperor Constantine and rebuilt and expanded by Emperor Justinian after the Nika riots of 532. Historical records indicate that 7,000 slaves were involved in the construction of the cistern. The expansion of the cistern provided a filtration system for Constantinople and other buildings on the First Hill, and continued to supply water to the Topkapi Palace after the Ottoman conquest in 1453 until modern times. During the Ottoman rule, it was renovated twice, once by architect Mehmet Aga under the command of Ahmet Sultan III in 1723. Another major renovation was completed during the reign of Sultan Abdulhamid II (1876-1909) in the 19th century. In the Republican period, it was renovated again between 1985-1987, with 50,000 tons of mud used to fill the walkways and platforms, and it was opened for local and foreign visitors to explore. It underwent another cleaning and renovation in May 1994. The ceiling is supported by 336 marble columns, arranged in 12 rows of 28, each 9 meters high and spaced 4.8 meters apart. The roof is supported by the columns through arches that distribute the weight. Of these, 98 are in the Corinthian style, while the rest are in the Doric style.

📍Basilica Cistern The Underground Cistern is located in the Sultanahmet district of the old city, which is home to many tourist attractions in Istanbul! It's easily accessible from the center of Istanbul⭕️ This time, I went to the Basilica Cistern, which is also known as the Underground Cistern, one of the tourist attractions in Istanbul^_^ The fantastic and unique atmosphere is captivating🫶 This is a recommended spot to visit when you go to Istanbul✨ Tickets on the day are extremely crowded, so please purchase your tickets in advance⚠️ #Istanbul #Turkey

The underground water system in Istanbul takes a modern twist on an ancient water system. The attraction is a one way walking system with visual art installations which have different focuses. All of the art installations have descriptions by the artists to explain their meaning and purpose. There is water under the ground and can get quite busy at times. I would definitely recommend purchasing tickets online prior to going as the queue to enter the attraction is much shorter #awesomepic #art #culture #istanbul

The Basilica Cistern, commonly known as the Underground Cistern, is a large water tank from the Eastern Roman Empire located in Istanbul, Turkey. It is called Yerebatan Sarnıcı, which means "underground reservoir". ⭐︎Location The Basilica Cistern is located in the Sultanahmet district (old town) on the European side of Istanbul, west of Hagia Sophia and north of the Blue Mosque, and is within walking distance of both spots. ⭐︎Duration 30 minutes to 1 hour ⭐︎Price 30TL, subject to change #Turkey #Istanbul

Istanbul Basilica Cistern - the largest cistern from the Byzantine Empire, just a stonethrow away from the famous Hagia Sofia. Before visiting, recommend you to purchase the ticket online to skip the queue. Inside the cistern is cooling and with the light effect. it illustrates the pillars and the whole area beautifully. I think is nice and should visit at least once. Find the stone carved pillar of Medusa as is one of the highlight of the journey. Recommend to go over the other side to take photos as most of the visitors would start clicking the moment they get down thus lesser crowd on the opposite side. #istanbul #turkey #basilicacistern

Located in Southwest of hagia Sofia, and it is magnificent ancient building. It is underground water reservoir called as “Yerebatan Cistern” because of the underground marble columns. Basilica Cistern is a magical underground place that really is unlike any place! It has all of the medusa vibes! It is a series of tunnels that lead to a street in the middle of the city at the end of it. It is a cave of actual wonder. Every historical artifact found there has a thorough description and you feel a lot more informed whenever you leave this place. One of the many places I would recommend in this amazing city! ⛪️🌟👓 #solstice #urbanexplorer #summervacation #ancientlandmark #ancientarchitecture #summervacation#urbanexplorer

Basilica Cistern, Istanbul - Turkey: This is the famous historical building with underground cistern which is wuite an amazing place with Medusa heads upside down. This as a great experience tgat I have never seen this kind of thing before.

The Basilica Cistern (BC) is one of the first tourist destinations that pop up when you google ‘things to do in Istanbul’, along with the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Grand Bazaar and more. It’s a tourist tick box for the old city destinations, and so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I turned up. However, of the several locations I had planned to visit, the cistern proved to be my favourite! We arrived at opening time so it was much less crowded, and had a really calming and ethereal mood to it. There’s loads of signs if you want to learn about it’s rich Byzantine history, with mood lighting setting the tone. Fun fact: it’s the largest cistern in the world! The negatives? As with most tourist spots, it comes with a bit of a price tag (about £20), although this is cheaper than some of the other places. The cistern also gets busy pretty quickly, so I would definitely recommend visiting as soon after opening time as possible. Overall, a definite yes on the places to go list!

Exploring Istanbul in a day! 🕌 Started with the majestic Hagia Sophia, followed by the mystical Basilica Cistern. Then strolled through the vibrant streets of Taksim and visited the beautiful Church of Saint Anthony. To end the day, I crossed continents—literally! 🚤 From Eminönü (Europe) to Üsküdar (Asia), soaking in the unique charm of both sides of Istanbul. 🏙️🌊 Istanbul truly is where history, cultures, and continents meet. 💫 #IstanbulDiaries #AsiaMeetsEurope #TravelMoments”

we went over easter days to istanbul and we where stunned by the good foodoptions almost everywhere. also are everywhere cats and they are being good maintained by the volks in istanbul. Must-Visit Attractions 1. Hagia Sophia: A UNESCO World Heritage site that has served as a church, mosque, and now a museum-mosque. Tip: Visit early to avoid long lines. 2. Topkapi Palace: The seat of Ottoman sultans with stunning courtyards, chambers, and a treasury. Tip: Don’t miss the Harem section. 3. Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Famous for its blue Iznik tiles and majestic domes. Tip: Dress modestly and visit outside prayer times. 4. Basilica Cistern: An ancient underground water reservoir with atmospheric lighting and iconic Medusa head columns. 5. Grand Bazaar & Spice Bazaar: Perfect for shopping Turkish goods like carpets, jewelry, spices, and teas. Tip: Bargaining is customary. 6. Bosphorus Cruise: See Istanbul from the water, including mansions, palaces, and bridges. Tip: Opt for sunset or dinner cruises for a magical experience. 7. Galata Tower: Offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. 8. Chora Church (Kariye Mosque): Renowned for its Byzantine mosaics and frescoes.

This modern statue, casting a creepy shadow of Medusa onto the Cistern’s walls.

Winter trip to Türkiye: 5-day highlights! Save this heartwarming guide and enjoy a romantic trip to Türkiye! -------- Türkiye, the crossroads of Europe and Asia 🌍, is a country with a rich history and unique regional customs. It is home to the magical hot air balloons of Cappadocia 🎈 and the romantic strait of Istanbul. Come and explore! -------- Itinerary: Day 1: Old City of Istanbul Explore the historical core of Istanbul. Day 2: Basilica Cistern - Dolmabahçe Palace - Bosphorus Cruise - İstiklal Avenue - Galata Tower Visit the ancient Basilica Cistern and feel the weight of history; visit the luxurious Dolmabahçe Palace and experience the grandeur of the royal family; take a cruise on the Bosphorus and enjoy the scenery on both sides of the strait; stroll along İstiklal Avenue and experience the local life; finally, climb the Galata Tower and enjoy a panoramic view of Istanbul. Day 3: Cappadocia Hot Air Balloon Experience - Uçhisar Castle - Kaymaklı Underground City - Pigeon Valley - Avanos - Devrent Valley Take a hot air balloon ride and enjoy a bird's-eye view of the magical landscape of Cappadocia; visit the spectacular Uçhisar Castle; visit the mysterious Kaymaklı Underground City; enjoy the natural beauty of Pigeon Valley; stroll through Avanos and experience the charm of ceramic art; finally, explore the picturesque Devrent Valley. Day 4: Göreme - Cappadocia ATV Safari Experience the unique charm of Cappadocia in Göreme, and then enjoy an exciting Cappadocia ATV Safari. Day 5: [Cappadocia - Return] Enjoy some free time before taking a private transfer to the airport. End your wonderful trip to Türkiye. 🌟 -------- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Old City of Istanbul: This area is home to many famous attractions and museums. Every step you take is a step back in time, allowing you to experience the vicissitudes of a thousand years. 💦 Basilica Cistern: Explore the Byzantine cistern, which is full of stone columns and exquisite reliefs. 🌊 Bosphorus: Stand on the border between Europe and Asia and enjoy the beautiful scenery on both sides of the strait. The sea and sky are the same color, which is breathtaking. -------- Some tips: 🚇 Airport transportation: The subway in Türkiye is convenient. You can take it during peak hours to avoid traffic jams. 🌦️ Weather in December: It is cool and rainy in Türkiye in December. Remember to bring a warm coat and rain gear! 🍽️ Food: Food prices are higher in tourist areas, but more affordable in residential areas. You can eat your fill for 50-100 yuan per person! 💳 Payment: Public transportation cards can be used by multiple people. They are easy to top up and have no limit, making travel more convenient. 📶 Signal: The signal is poor on the airport subway line, so be prepared in advance. -------- Come and explore the romance and mystery of Türkiye. Don't forget to leave your footprints and stories! 🌟

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, is a mysterious underground palace that seems to be frozen in time, preserving a piece of the city's history. When you visit the Basilica Cistern, you will realize that it is not just a miracle of hydraulic engineering, but also a place where the past is perfectly preserved. Among the many underground cisterns in Istanbul, the Basilica Cistern (Yerebatan Sarnic) is the largest and best-preserved. In the 6th century, in order to resist the water shortage caused by foreign sieges, the Byzantine Empire built the underground cistern with tens of thousands of workers, storing the city's hope for survival. Every drop of water embodies the perseverance and wisdom of the ancients. The light and shadow in the cistern are intertwined and changeable. The majestic stone pillars from the Byzantine period support the dome and are reflected in the water, full of the shock of time. The inverted Medusa head is even more magical. Some say it is a symbol of warding off evil spirits, scaring away evil spirits with its ferocious face. Others say that the original workers used the ancient Greek building materials at will, creating a unique landscape by accident. In any case, it brings visitors unparalleled shock and endless imagination.

The Basilica Cistern, also known as "Yerebatan Sarnıcı," is an extraordinary piece of Byzantine engineering located in the heart of Istanbul. Visiting this ancient underground water reservoir was a truly mesmerizing experience. As soon as I stepped inside, the cool and dimly lit atmosphere transported me to another era. The grandeur of the structure is awe-inspiring, with its 336 marble columns standing in perfect rows, each uniquely designed. The soft glow of strategically placed lights reflecting off the water creates an ethereal ambiance that feels almost magical. One of the most fascinating features of the cistern is the two Medusa heads, used as column bases. Their mysterious origins and the way they are positioned—one upside down and the other sideways—add an element of intrigue and myth to the visit. The carp swimming gracefully in the shallow water also contribute to the cistern's mystical charm. The audio guide provided an excellent explanation of the history and architectural significance of the cistern, highlighting how it was constructed during Emperor Justinian I’s reign in the 6th century to supply water to the city. The only drawback of the visit was the popularity of the site, which meant it was quite crowded. However, the beauty and historical significance of the Basilica Cistern more than compensated for this minor inconvenience. Overall, the Basilica Cistern is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone looking to experience a piece of Istanbul’s rich past. It is a testament to human ingenuity and an unforgettable part of my trip to this incredible city.

Basilica Cistern, one of the historical site, is the largest of ancient cistern that lie below the city Istanbul, Turkiye. This enlarged cistern provided water filtration system for the nearby buildings, including Topkapi Palace. There are some statues and art pieces that can be seen in this place. With the different lights being turned on, it provided different sights and feelings to behold. Address: Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

Exploring the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Turkey, is a journey filled with mystery. This magnificent underground reservoir, built during the Byzantine Empire, was used to store water for the city and still retains its grandeur to this day. Upon entering the Basilica Cistern, you are immediately struck by the hundreds of towering columns, neatly arranged to support the arched ceiling. The lighting reflects off the water, creating a dreamlike scene that makes you feel as if you've entered another world. The dim lighting inside creates a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere. Every step on the wooden walkway is accompanied by the sound of dripping water, making you feel isolated and serene. We wandered through this strange underground world, carefully admiring the ancient and unique architecture and carvings. What impressed me the most were the two Medusa head statues, one inverted and the other placed sideways at the base of the columns. The statues exude a mysterious and ancient aura. It is said that these statues were placed to ward off evil, sparking a deep interest in the stories behind them. This visit to the Basilica Cistern not only allowed me to witness the architectural marvels of the Roman era but also gave me a sense of timeless mystery. Every column and every corner tells a story of the past, making it a place you won't want to leave. If you have the chance to visit Istanbul, don't miss this enchanting place. Whether it's the grandeur of the architecture or the mysterious atmosphere, it's worth savoring.

# Things to Do in Istanbul Istanbul, a city that bridges Europe and Asia, is rich in history, culture, and vibrant experiences. Here are some must-do activities for your visit. ## Explore Historic Landmarks Start with the **Hagia Sophia**, an architectural marvel that has served as a basilica, mosque, and now a museum. Next, visit the **Blue Mosque**, known for its stunning blue tiles and impressive domes. Don’t miss the **Topkapi Palace**, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, where you can explore opulent rooms and beautiful gardens. ## Discover the Grand Bazaar Wander through the **Grand Bazaar**, one of the world’s oldest and largest covered markets. Here, you can shop for traditional handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Be sure to practice your bargaining skills! ## Enjoy the Bosphorus Take a scenic **Bosphorus cruise** to see the city from the water. The views of palaces, minarets, and charming waterfront houses are breathtaking. You can also enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, tasting local dishes like grilled fish or mezes. ## Visit Cultural Sites Explore the **Chora Church**, famous for its stunning mosaics, and the **Basilica Cistern**, an ancient underground water reservoir with atmospheric lighting and impressive columns. For contemporary art, check out the **Istanbul Modern** museum. ## Savor Turkish Cuisine Indulge in Istanbul’s culinary delights. Try street food like **simit** (sesame bread) or **kebabs**, and don’t forget to enjoy a cup of traditional *Turkish tea* or *coffee*. ## Stroll Through Neighborhoods Finally, take a walk in neighborhoods like **Kadıköy** on the Asian side or **Galata** for a more local feel, filled with trendy cafes, shops, and vibrant street art. With its blend of history, culture, and cuisine, Istanbul offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

🌟Let's go! Turkey, a mysterious country where Eastern and Western cultures meet, is opening its arms to welcome you!🌟 🎒Travel tips are here!🎒 🔌Plug adapter: Don't forget it, Turkish sockets may be different from yours! ✈️Travel time: April to October is the peak season in Turkey, but spring and autumn (April to May, September to October) are more suitable for travel. 🕒Time difference: Turkey is 6 hours behind Beijing time (5 hours during daylight saving time), remember to adjust your biological clock! 📄Visa guide: E-visa is super convenient, prepare in advance to make your trip worry-free! 👗Clothing: The climate in Turkey is changeable, wear a single coat in spring and autumn, and don't forget sunscreen in summer. Ladies, remember to bring a scarf, it's a must for entering the mosque! 🗺️Next, a 12-day Turkey Grand Tour guide is here!🗺️ 🌈D1: Let's go! Fly to Istanbul and get ready for an amazing adventure! 🌈D2: In-depth exploration of Istanbul. The Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, each building is a witness to history. The Basilica Cistern and Archaeological Museum take you through the long river of history and feel the glory of the empire. 🌈D3: Cappadocia fantasy tour! Stay at a cave hotel in Goreme Town, take a hot air balloon ride in the morning to overlook the lunar-like landscape, and then drive an ATV to feel the collision of speed and passion! 🌈D4: Free travel in Goreme Town. Stroll along the cobblestone streets and feel the simplicity and tranquility of Turkey, as if you are in a fairy tale world. 🌈D5-6: Head south from Cappadocia to Antalya. Pass through Kayseri, enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way, and arrive at the beautiful Antalya. In Kas Town, enjoy a leisurely seaside time and feel the seaside style of Turkey. 🌈D7: A romantic night in Fethiye. The sunset at Kaputas Beach, the magnificence of D400 Highway, the thrill of paragliding, and the authentic food at Fethiye Fish Market will make you intoxicated and linger. 🌈D8-9: Collision of history and modernity. Visit the ancient city of Ephesus and feel the glory of ancient Rome; go to Alacati and Cesme to experience the leisure and fashion of the town and feel the diverse charm of Turkey. 🌈D10-11: Return to Istanbul. The beauty of Izmir makes you reluctant to leave, but the call of Istanbul makes you embark on the journey home. The cruise tour of the Eurasian Continental Bridge allows you to cross two continents at once and experience unprecedented shock! 🌈D12: Farewell to Turkey. With full memories and reluctance, embark on the journey home. But please believe that the beauty of Turkey will always remain in your heart and become one of the most precious memories in your life! 🚀Conclusion🚀 Turkey, a country full of mystery and charm, is waiting for your exploration and discovery. The 12-day Grand Tour is just the beginning. In the future, may you be able to set foot on this magical land again and continue to write your own travel story!

The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is a stunning and atmospheric site that’s definitely worth a visit. Walking through its dimly lit halls, with towering columns reflected in the shallow water below, feels like stepping into a different time. The soft lighting and the peaceful sound of water make it a truly unique experience, especially with the Medusa heads adding a layer of mystery to the place. However, I found the ticket price a bit on the higher side compared to other attractions in Istanbul. While the visit was certainly memorable, the cost might be a drawback for some. If you're a history enthusiast or love unique architectural sites, it’s still worth the splurge!#basilicacistern

What an experience! It was great to learn the history behind this underground reservoir. And we visited during a hot day, so that was quite a change in temperature. However, during our visit, there were some contemporary art pieces, not too sure if they belonged to such a historical place. There was a line around the building all day. At 5:53 p.m., we bought tickets on the line. At 6:17, we walked past 300 people waiting to buy tickets and directly into the cistern. The line is only to buy tickets, so if you already have them, you can just go in. It was maybe 4 euro extra each. The cistern is fascinating and very well presented with light and music. We spent about 45 minutes there. #travel #thingstodo #turkey #basilicacistern

#travellerswonderland Basilica Cistern is a must visit attraction when you visit Istanbul. This ancient underground reservoir is located in the southwest of Hagi Sophia (another awesome attraction) and a marvel of Byzantine engineering that once supplied water to Constantinople's great palace. It can hold a massive amount of 80,000 cubic meters of water! Built more than 1000 years ago, the Basilica Cistern has been restored several times. Iconic things that you shouldn't missed include the 2 inverted Medusa heads and the weeping column which resembles peacock eyes.

#ancienttown The Basilica Cistern, one of Istanbul’s most unique attractions, is a hidden gem beneath the city’s surface. Commissioned by Emperor Justinian I to supply water to the Great Palace of Byzantium, the cistern is supported by 336 stone columns, each perfectly aligned to create a mystical, deep atmosphere from every angle. 💰Average Price per Person: 1300 lira Walking through the dimly lit, cool underground space, you’ll encounter two famous Medusa heads—one placed upside down and the other sideways—serving as column bases. Local legend has it that a Byzantine emperor, fearing assassination by poison, imprisoned Medusa here as a guard. To protect himself from her petrifying gaze, he had her heads placed in such a way that they couldn’t make eye contact with anyone, supposedly neutralizing her deadly power. Another intriguing feature is the “Weeping Column,” adorned with eye-shaped carvings that seem to cry as water continuously condenses on them. This adds to the eerie, almost otherworldly vibe of the cistern. If you’re planning to visit, here are a few practical details to keep in mind: • Expect to queue for at least an hour during peak season • The entrance fee is 1300 lira (subject to change, and it might increase in the future)😳 • The interior has a musty smell. • Staying too long might cause some rheumatic discomfort 🥲 • Essentially, it’s a large underground reservoir, so your visit might be quick—about 25 minutes • There are a few statues that give off serious Cthulhu vibes🤭 📍Address: Basilica Cistern, Fatih

Visiting the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is like stepping into a hidden, mystical world beneath the bustling city streets. As you descend the stone steps into the dimly lit, cool interior, the temperature drops, offering a welcome respite from the heat outside.Rows of ancient marble columns, many still standing tall, stretch into the distance. There are 336 of them, rising from the shallow water that still covers parts of the cistern's floor. The soft, ambient lighting reflects off the water, casting shimmering patterns on the columns and vaulted ceilings. The Basilica Cistern feels like a hidden treasure from the past—a beautiful, eerie, and surreal space that transports you back to ancient times, blending history, legend, and the city’s rich cultural layers into one remarkable experience. #trip #Travel #history #culture #turkey

#citydaytours While en route to North America, I had a 22 hour layover in Istanbul. I considered several options in terms of tours and picked an itinerary perfect for the layover. Involving places that are most popular and in close distance of each other. This can allow you to have a great first experience of Istanbul without going out of the way. Keep in mind that this is the largest city if you compare turkey with european cities. And a very touristy one. So there is bound to be some things that I missed out on. But that was done keeping in mind that i didn't want to exhaust myself. I started off with a stunning Turkish breakfast in the sultanahmet district. I take my coffee strong, so i asked for strong Turkish tea. And that was terribly strong. No more Turkish tea for me. But you can always tell them to add more water or less water according to your preference. Here are the 5 places i visited before going back to my hotel. 1) Sultanahemet Square Plenty of historical stops scattered around and shops, cafe's, food carts etc. This is where I had my breakfast. 2) Hagia Sophia Walk to the grand mosque. Somewhat touristy and crowded as an experience. But you want to see the most popular attractions in Istanbul. 3) Blue mosque In the same vicinity, blue mosque is yet another popular stop. I prefer this one over hagia sophia. 4) Basilica cistern There are several underground cisterns in Istanbul. This is a 6th century old and largest of them. 5) Grand Bazaar Lastly, to truly exhaust you and make you hate cigarettes and the smell of it. Also give you a reason to conside putting your clothes in laundry the same day. (Too much smoke) but the largest and oldest market is colorful and test of your patience. How lovely for an activity to help you crash? This ensured I was back to the hotel by early evening and i enjoyed the hotel spa, called it a night early to prepare for the flight next morning. #istanbul #1daytrip #layover #myhiddengems #summerdestinations #100waysoftravel

Entering the Basilica Cistern feels like stepping into another world. The Basilica Cistern in Istanbul is famous for its long colonnades, tranquil waters, and Medusa Heads, which are said to have been repurposed from an ancient Roman building. You can spend around 30 minutes to an hour exploring its interiors. As the largest cistern in the world, it's definitely worth a visit. Plus, it's conveniently located near other famous landmarks like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace.🕰️Business Hours: 9:00 AM- 6:30 PM , 7:30-11:50 PM 📍Address:Alemdar, Yerebatan Cd. 1/3, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye 💰Average Price per Person:Skip-the-Line Tickets to Basilica Cistern from €32.50

Feeling the pulse of Istanbul is like stepping into a vibrant tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Here's a sneak peek into the city's must-visit attractions! 🕌 Hagia Sophia, Sultanahmet The Hagia Sophia is a spellbinding fusion of history and architectural grandeur. Once a church, now a mosque, its domes and mosaics are a sight to behold. Don't miss the chance to experience the serene ambiance and historical depth of this Byzantine masterpiece. 🕊️ 📿 The Blue Mosque, Sultanahmet Step into the tranquil beauty of the Blue Mosque, with its iconic blue tiles and stunning stained glass. This 400-year-old Islamic marvel is a spiritual haven in the heart of Istanbul. Visit early to soak in the peaceful vibes and marvel at the architectural splendor. 🌙 💧 Basilica Cistern, Alemdar Dive into the depths of Istanbul's largest cistern, the Basilica Cistern. This 1,500-year-old underground wonder, featured in James Bond movies, is a cool retreat with a mysterious vibe. Remember to book your tickets online to skip the long queues! 🔦 🚢 Bosphorus, Istanbul A cruise along the Bosphorus is an unforgettable Istanbul experience. Glide between continents as you take in the panoramic views of palaces, bridges, and the city's skyline. Whether it's a breakfast sail or a dinner cruise, the Bosphorus is a must-do! 🌊 🏰 Topkapi Palace, Sultanahmet Explore the opulent Topkapi Palace, a grand testament to the Ottoman Empire's glory. With lush gardens, intricate art, and panoramic views of the Bosphorus, this palace is a treasure trove of history and luxury. Allow yourself plenty of time to wander its regal halls. 👑 🗼 Galata Tower, Bereketzade For the best views of Istanbul, climb up the Galata Tower. This medieval stone tower offers a 360-degree panorama of the city's sea of red rooftops and the glimmering Bosphorus. The climb is worth it, but be prepared for a workout on the way down! 🌆 From the awe-inspiring Hagia Sophia to the majestic Bosphorus, each moment in Istanbul is a brush with history and beauty. These attractions are just the beginning of what this enchanting city has to offer! #Istanbul #IstanbulAttractions #Turkey #TurkeyTravel

Amazing how their restored this place to make it an amazing attraction 😀