Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace: Fast-Track Entry with Expert-Led Guided Tour
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.9 (241 reviews)
€119.99
Language: English
Duration: + 90 minutes
Visit two of Turkey’s most visited museums. Focus on your goal and discover the interesting stories of the museums with an expert guide. Designed for those who love their freedom while traveling.
Overview
- Skip The Ticket Lines of Topkapı Palace
- Skip The Ticket Lines of Basilica Cistern
- Immerse yourself in Istanbul’s regal history with an exceptional tour
- Rely on the expertise of your historian guide
- Unravel movie trivia as you visit the famed Basilica Cistern
- Learn more about the fascinating Ottoman heritage
- Effortlessly navigate museums
- +60 min. of guiding in Topkapı Palace
- +30 min. of active guiding at Basilica Cistern
- Official Entry Tickets to Topkapı Palace
- Official Entry Tickets to Basilica Cistern
- Upgraded Experience with Tech
- Golden Content Pack (Exclusive Info About Istanbul) by atourguideinconstantinople
- (0-6) age free of charge
Description
For those in search of an exceptional experience, join us on an enriching voyage through Istanbul’s most frequented museums, the Basilica Cistern and Topkapı Palace. Opt for a remarkable odyssey tailor-made for those seeking an extraordinary tour with Istanbul’s Exclusive Duo. Admire the mysterious Basilica Cistern where two major Hollywood productions were filmed, 007’s From Russia with Love and Tom Hanks’ Inferno. This is followed by an enriching exploration of the Ottoman Palace’s timeless collections. Our exclusive guided tour is customized for travelers who prefer a unique experience, far removed from the ordinary tour. With a historian as your guide, delve into the city’s most visited museums, tracing the intricate narratives hidden above and below the ground. Save yourself from the hassles of waiting in long lines for tickets at the museums. Enjoy the benefit of direct access to these much-visited museums and the expert narration of a historian guide as you traverse across these architectural wonders. Trust the experience of your expert guide who would handle every detail, while you get to delve deeper into each artifact, structure, and stories buried within. If you prefer to take things slow, you may stay back at the museum once the tour ends, redirecting your focus on the many artifacts earlier discussed on your tour.
***Attention; All the guests has to follow the timetable below.
Basilica Cistern: 12.00, 13.00, 14.00 or 15.00 (*Except Tuesdays. *There’ll be also 11.00 session for only Fridays in addition to others)
Topkapı Palace: Daily 10.30 and only session (*Fridays at 9.30 and there’s no session on Tuesdays).
Meeting Point
You must join the tour from the meeting point Your tour guide will be expecting you with black ‘atourguideinconstantinople’ flag. If you miss your tour, you can get in touch with the numbers on voucher to join next tour.
Open in Google Maps ⟶https://maps.app.goo.gl/NEUPuidoVghKG2s59
Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace | Hidden Depths and Ottoman Majesty
The Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace are two of Istanbul’s most captivating sites, each revealing unique aspects of the city’s rich heritage. The Basilica Cistern, an ancient underground water reservoir built by Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century, enchants visitors with its towering columns, serene waters, and mysterious Medusa carvings. Topkapi Palace, built in the 15th century, served as the heart of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years, offering a glimpse into the opulence of the Ottoman sultans through its lavish rooms, intricate tilework, and priceless artifacts. Dive into the mystique and majesty of these iconic landmarks with skip-the-line options and essential tips for a seamless visit.
Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace | Things to Know Before You Book
- Ticket Options: Each site offers various ticket choices, including general admission, guided tours, and skip-the-line tickets. Opt for guided tours for a deeper understanding of the historical significance, or choose skip-the-line tickets to bypass long queues, particularly during busy times.
- Peak Visiting Times: These popular attractions can get crowded, especially in the summer and on weekends. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a more relaxed experience.
- Dress Code: Topkapi Palace has dress code requirements. Only for the Topkapi Palace’s Sacred Relics section.
- Photography: Photography is allowed at all three sites, but flash photography is discouraged to preserve the artwork and artifacts. Be mindful of restricted areas, and always follow posted signage regarding photography.
- Accessibility: Both Topkapi Palace and the Basilica Cistern are wheelchair accessible, though some parts may still be challenging due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
- Security Checks: Expect security screenings at all three sites. To ensure a smooth visit, avoid carrying large bags, and bring only the essentials.
- Nearby Attractions: All three sites are located in Sultanahmet, making it easy to explore other nearby landmarks like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia in one visit.
- Book in Advance: To guarantee entry, especially during peak seasons, book tickets in advance. Skip-the-line and guided tour tickets can sell out quickly, so planning ahead ensures a seamless experience.
Testimonials
Some love from our guests
★★★★★
It was very pleasant to get these crowded museum without struggling. After our guide (Can) welcomed us, we went on a perfect trip. Basilica cistern is a very interesting place. Everything was designed very successfully, even the most popular photo spots, our guide reminded us everywhere we went. Topkapi palace exceeded my expectations. Our guide, who shared very special information about the Ottoman kings, not only reassured us with his knowledge but also took us back in time with his interesting stories. The plan and programme were simple and we were even allowed to visit the museums as much as we wanted after the tour. I don’t think there is a more sensible activity in Istanbul.
Danial
★★★★★
Good guide! Had a great understanding of history and archaeology. Also a nice personality with a lot of passion for his profession!
Susan
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