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Istanbul Museum: Iconic Film Location Tour
4.2
167 Ratings
Fatih
One of Istanbul’s most spectacular museums and undoubtedly one of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss on your trip. This is where several movies have been filmed, including the James Bond movie From Russia with Love and the film Inferno starring Tom Hanks. It’s a very exciting place.
One of Istanbul’s most spectacular museums and undoubtedly one of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss on your trip. This is where several movies have been filmed, including the James Bond movie From Russia with Love and the film Inferno starring Tom Hanks. It’s a very exciting place.
Duration:
1 hour
Cancellation:
24 hours
Highlights
- Basilica Cistern - The tour is in Spanish, French, and English. Can see an impressive underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine era. Highlights include the forest of ancient columns, the two Medusa head bases, and the tranquil, reflective pool. The dim lighting and ambient music add to the mystical atmosphere of this historic site.
- Basilica Cistern - The tour is in Spanish, French, and English. Can see an impressive underground water reservoir built during the Byzantine era. Highlights include the forest of ancient columns, the two Medusa head bases, and the tranquil, reflective pool. The dim lighting and ambient music add to the mystical atmosphere of this historic site.
What's Included
- Expert Tour Guide
- Presentation of handmade Turkish rugs
- Expert Tour Guide
- Presentation of handmade Turkish rugs
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
- Entry Fee (Ticket) the entry fee is 900tl in the day time ..you can pay here by credit cards
- Ticket is not included..
- Gratuities
- Entry Fee (Ticket) the entry fee is 900tl in the day time ..you can pay here by credit cards
- Ticket is not included..
Location
Green Corner Cafe & Restaurant
Caferiye Sokak
Opposite to Basilica Cistern Enter Gate
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.2
(167 Ratings)
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Kz44tz
Nov 14, 2025
Plan ahead, go early and buy the skip the lines tickets - Highly recommended experience in the heart of old town. You need to buy tickets in advance as the line can be very long. A guide isn’t needed but if you have a tour of the major attractions this should not be missed
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jheyuti
Nov 8, 2025
Basilica Cistern - A truly enchanting experience for couples! The cool air, gentle music, and magical glow made it such a peaceful escape from the busy streets above. The Medusa heads were fascinating - mysterious and beautiful at the same time.
It’s a place that invites quiet awe and shared wonder. We left feeling calm, connected, and completely amazed. Highly recommend for couples looking for something unique in Istanbul.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Savy61
Nov 1, 2025
A blast from history - The Cistern Basilica is a magical attraction, you go back to the times of Emperor Justinian who had it built in the sixth century to bring water to the city of Constantinople. The 336 columns, all different, are beautiful and the plays of light projected on them create a suggestive atmosphere.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Will_selles
Nov 1, 2025
Top Istanbul Site to Visit - Stunning underground wonder — must-see!
Absolutely loved the Basilica Cistern. The lighting and music turn a forest of columns into pure theatre, and the Medusa heads are a brilliant finale. Cool, atmospheric, and wildly photogenic from every angle. Go early or late to dodge queues and enjoy the walkways. Worth every lira — unmissable Istanbul experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
510luigin
Oct 30, 2025
Architectural masterpiece - The Istanbul Cistern Basilica is a fascinating underground attraction. Its marble columns and suggestive atmosphere create a unique environment. The cistern is steeped in history and offers an intriguing perspective on Istanbul's ancient water system. Walking between rows of columns is like immersing yourself in a magical atmosphere. A place to visit for lovers of archaeology and for those who wish to explore the hidden secrets of the city.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gregmar81
Oct 26, 2025
An Incredible Structure Built During the 5th Century - Somewhat hard to imagine that structure of this size was built manually in the 5th Century. As you walk thru this cistern, you'll notice over 300 columns that support the ceiling. Many of them are unique in design, with different capitals and diameters, as they were apparently salvaged from other sites within Turkey. What also makes this visit very unique is the lighting that is used, it's color selection and reflection off the water covering the floor. Clearly worth your time for a visit.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Alextripps
Nov 8, 2025
Nice visit - The place is to be discovered with a visit that can be quite quick. The photos show the place well, but you have to wander there to appreciate. Like all Istanbul there are many people, you absolutely need skip the line tickets.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
2003marina
Nov 1, 2025
Recommended visit - A place unlike any other, easy and fast entry if you purchase tickets in advance. Recommended visit
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Anthonywardiii
Oct 29, 2025
Not worth the price. - If you have the Istanbul card and it’s included this is worth going to but not if you are just paying. You can see most of this in a few minutes.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Maria
Oct 26, 2025
Must visit - Must-see Basilica in English. Stunning views and amazing cathedral with lighting.
We really liked it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor