Truly spectacular - The views were amazing. The varied light show really added to the atmosphere. Particularly liked the silhouette of Medusa.

Definitely worth a visit - This place is stunning. Historically interesting and absolutely beautiful. The huge columns are recycled from Roman temples and the lights make the place look so ethereal

Great place! a must visit in Istanbul - Wonderful place to learn how it was built. The pillars are massive and the upside down pillar having the head of Medusa was quite unique. Worth a visit for sure.

A must visit if you are in Istanbul - So pristine and also very well maintained. Such a reservoir and so well kept. A must see for those who visit Istanbul. Though the audio guide didn't work for some time but the information is provided inside. The tear drop pillar is amazing

A fascinating world underground - It's a magical, wonderful underground world. Seeing how civilizations managed to survive in the face of adversity is mind-blowing.

Spectacular attraction - The most charming building in Sultanhamet. Admission costs less in the evening and therefore there is more queue than during the day. Comfortable skip-the-line ticket. Being underground, internally nothing changes to see it day or night. The play of light is fascinating and there are some modern artworks between the columns. Taking many photos, you can even stay more than half an hour inside.

One Dimensional - Expensive - Very one dimensional, just one large room, Incredibly steep stairs that I was not comforatable navigating. The light show is amazing however. Ideally it should have a start time

Beautiful but overpriced - The tank basilica is nothing short of spectacular! I'm just sorry I can't give 5/5 , since the Entrance fee was about 1.3000 Turkish lira ( 35,00€ European ) Honestly, although the basilica was beautiful, it is not worth 35€ for a maximum of 15 visits. Prices out of the normal ..

Don’t take the euro!!! - Relatively high price for 30 minutes visit. Don’t take the euro!!!!!!!!! Weird for such a tourist site

Overpriced, Overcrowded, and Underwhelming – A Tourist Trap - I had high expectations for the Basilica Cistern, given its historical significance and the stunning images often shown in travel guides. However, my visit turned out to be a major disappointment, and I strongly advise fellow travelers to think twice before spending their money here. 1. Unjustifiable Entry Fee (€35 for Tourists!) • The ticket price for foreign visitors is outrageously high compared to what you actually experience. • Locals pay a fraction of the price, while tourists are charged a premium without any additional value or services. • Considering that the visit takes less than 10 minutes, this is easily one of the most overpriced attractions in Istanbul. 2. Minimal Experience for the Price • The entire visit takes 5-10 minutes at most. There is very little to see, apart from a few pillars and dim lighting effects. • The famous Medusa heads are interesting but not worth the entrance fee alone. • No detailed explanations or engaging historical information – you are essentially paying to walk through a damp underground space. 3. Overcrowded and Chaotic • The attraction is packed with people, making it difficult to take photos or enjoy the atmosphere. • No clear organization or crowd control – expect long waiting times and pushing through large crowds just to catch a glimpse of the few notable sights. 4. Rude Staff and Lack of Hospitality • The staff was indifferent and unhelpful, treating tourists as if they were just another transaction. • No explanations, no effort to make the visit enjoyable, and certainly no justification for the high ticket price. Final Verdict: A Complete Tourist Scam The Basilica Cistern is a prime example of tourist exploitation in Istanbul – high prices, minimal experience, and indifferent service. For €35, you are essentially paying for 5 minutes in a dark basement. 💡 Better Alternatives: Instead of wasting money here, visit free or more engaging sites like the Süleymaniye Mosque, Rüstem Pasha Mosque, or even the Grand Bazaar, where you’ll have a much richer cultural experience without feeling ripped off. Would I recommend it? Absolutely NOT. Spend your money elsewhere.