cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Istanbul travel guides
  • Istanbul travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Turkey tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line

274 Reviews 4.97 out of 5 stars Based on 274 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 100% of reviewers
100% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
| Istanbul, Turkey
Book online or call us

from $21.68 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line Image 1
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line Image 2
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line Image 3
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line Image 4
Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.
2 hours 40 minutes (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover the captivating history and architectural wonders of Istanbul with our tour that takes you on a journey through the mysterious Basilica Cistern and the opulent Topkapi Palace. Our tour begins at the breathtaking Basilica Cistern, an underground marvel that dates back to the 6th century. Discover the ingenuity of Byzantine engineers who constructed this colossal subterranean reservoir, capable of holding over 80,000 tons of water. Our next stop transports you to the magnificent Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans for almost 400 years. Admire the palace's distinctive architecture, lush gardens, and stunning views of the Bosphorus Strait. Explore the Harem, the most intimate and secluded part of the palace, where sultans and their families resided. Discover the secrets, intrigues, and luxurious lifestyles of the Ottoman royalty as you wander through these opulent chambers.

What's Included

  • Basilica Cistern Guided Tour
  • Professional Licensed Tour Guide Fee
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem Guided Tour
  • Hotel pickup
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem
  • Basilica Cistern
See 3 more

Meeting Location

Meeting point

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

Show on Google Maps

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Cankurtaran
34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

The 4th courtyard of The Topkapi Palace is end of the tour.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Basilica Cistern

After you meet your tour guide at the entrance of Basilica Cistern where Privileged Entry. Start to explore the ancient underground world of the Basilica Cistern on this private guided tour. Built in the 6th century, this mysterious subterranean chamber once held water for the city's palaces and gardens. Now, you can wander through its dimly lit passages and marvel at the stunning Byzantine architecture, including the rows of marble columns and the eerie Medusa heads at the base of two pillars. Your guide will share fascinating stories and historical facts about the cistern, bringing this hidden gem of Istanbul to life.
Read more

40 minutes Admission Ticket Free

TopkapI Palace

You will walk to Topkapi Palace with your tour guide. Step back in time and experience the opulence of the Ottoman Empire on this private guided tour of Topkapi Palace. From the ornate gates to the sprawling courtyards and opulent chambers, every corner of this palace complex exudes grandeur and extravagance. See the dazzling jewels and treasures of the sultans in the Treasury, admire the stunning architecture and design of the Harem, and stroll through the serene gardens and pavilions. Your expert guide will provide insights into the history and culture of the palace, making this a truly unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that both the Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace are popular tourist attractions, so it's a good idea to book your tour in advance and arrive early to avoid crowds. And make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as there's quite a bit of walking involved in this tour.
Read more

2 hours Admission Ticket Free

Show 1 more stop

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-65151P4

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.97
274 reviews

Average 4.97 out of 5 stars based on 274 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
267
4 stars
7
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 19 (0) days in advance.
Istanbul Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

7 Days Highlights of Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus
4.9 (16)

7 Days Highlights of Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus

Book your amazing Turkey tour with Cool Shore Excursions's one of the Top Rated travel agencies, Travel Tips Turkey. Including Istanbul, this 7 days Turkey...

7 days
4.9 (16)
from
$1,199
Istanbul Private Half-Day Tour: Old City & Grand Bazaar
5.0 (20)

Istanbul Private Half-Day Tour: Old City & Grand Bazaar

Discover the highlights of Istanbul’s historic Old City on a private half-day tour with a licensed professional guide. Ideal for first-time visitors, cruise passengers, and...

4 to 5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (20)
from
$20
Semi Private - Constantinople Tour of Istanbul: Discovering the Byzantine Empire
3.0 (6)

Semi Private - Constantinople Tour of Istanbul: Discovering the Byzantine Empire

Walk back to history Discover the splendor of Byzantine Istanbul, the ancient city of Constantinople, on this fascinating 3-hour history tour led by an expert...

3 hours Free Cancellation
3.0 (6)
from
$46
5 Day Tour to Istanbul, Laodicea, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Cappadocia

5 Day Tour to Istanbul, Laodicea, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Cappadocia

⭐ Enjoy semi-private tours with a maximum of 10 guests ⭐ Optional flight in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia’s scenic valleys ⭐ Stay in...

4 days Hotel pickup offered
from
$1,358
7 Days Highlights of Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus

Book your amazing Turkey tour with Cool Shore Excursions's one of the Top Rated travel agencies, Travel Tips Turkey. Including Istanbul, this 7 days Turkey …More

4.9 (16)

7 Days Highlights of Turkey Tour: Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Ephesus

4.9 (16)

Book your amazing Turkey tour with Cool Shore Excursions's one of the Top Rated travel agencies, Travel Tips Turkey. Including Istanbul, this 7 days Turkey...

7 days
4.9 (16)
from
$1,199
Istanbul Private Half-Day Tour: Old City & Grand Bazaar

Discover the highlights of Istanbul’s historic Old City on a private half-day tour with a licensed professional guide. Ideal for first-time visitors, cruise passengers, and …More

5.0 (20)

Istanbul Private Half-Day Tour: Old City & Grand Bazaar

5.0 (20)

Discover the highlights of Istanbul’s historic Old City on a private half-day tour with a licensed professional guide. Ideal for first-time visitors, cruise passengers, and...

4 to 5 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (20)
from
$20
Semi Private - Constantinople Tour of Istanbul: Discovering the Byzantine Empire

Walk back to history Discover the splendor of Byzantine Istanbul, the ancient city of Constantinople, on this fascinating 3-hour history tour led by an expert …More

3.0 (6)

Semi Private - Constantinople Tour of Istanbul: Discovering the Byzantine Empire

3.0 (6)

Walk back to history Discover the splendor of Byzantine Istanbul, the ancient city of Constantinople, on this fascinating 3-hour history tour led by an expert...

3 hours Free Cancellation
3.0 (6)
from
$46
5 Day Tour to Istanbul, Laodicea, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Cappadocia

⭐ Enjoy semi-private tours with a maximum of 10 guests ⭐ Optional flight in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia’s scenic valleys ⭐ Stay in …More

5 Day Tour to Istanbul, Laodicea, Pamukkale, Ephesus, Cappadocia

⭐ Enjoy semi-private tours with a maximum of 10 guests ⭐ Optional flight in a hot air balloon over Cappadocia’s scenic valleys ⭐ Stay in...

4 days Hotel pickup offered
from
$1,358

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,047)

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,047)
from
$7
Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table
4.7 (2,609)

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,609)
from
$32
Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line
4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,420)
from
$143
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition
4.1 (437)

Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Discover the history and culture of the famous Whirling Dervishes during this 1-hour at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Wander the Whirling Dervishes’ museum and learn about their...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.1 (437)
from
$26
Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia. …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.8 (1,047)

Bosphorus Cruise Boat Tour in Istanbul

4.8 (1,047)

Discover the beauty of Istanbul on a relaxing Bosphorus Cruise Tour and enjoy spectacular views from the water as you sail between Europe and Asia....

1 to 2 hours Free Cancellation
4.8 (1,047)
from
$7
Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your …More

4.7 (2,609)

Istanbul Mega Lufer Dinner Cruise Bosphorus and Show Pvt Table

4.7 (2,609)

With the magical view of the Bosphorus, the historical silhouette of Istanbul, the sea and the unique beauty of the night, we are at your...

3 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (2,609)
from
$32
Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the …More

4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass: Top Istanbul Attractions with Skip The Ticket Line

4.9 (1,420)

Istanbul E-pass is a fully digital sightseeing pass that covers over 100 top Istanbul Attractions. Choose your E-pass 1,2,3,5 or 7 days and enjoy the...

1 to 7 days Free Cancellation
4.9 (1,420)
from
$143
Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

Discover the history and culture of the famous Whirling Dervishes during this 1-hour at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Wander the Whirling Dervishes’ museum and learn about their …More

4.1 (437)

Istanbul Hodjapasha Whirling Dervishes Show & Exhibition

4.1 (437)

Discover the history and culture of the famous Whirling Dervishes during this 1-hour at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Wander the Whirling Dervishes’ museum and learn about their...

1 hour Free Cancellation
4.1 (437)
from
$26

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Basilica Cistern Guided Tour.
  • Professional Licensed Tour Guide Fee.
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem Guided Tour.
The following is NOT included:
  • Hotel pickup.
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem.
  • Basilica Cistern.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Private Guided Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace with Skip Line will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • Basilica Cistern Guided Tour
  • Professional Licensed Tour Guide Fee
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem Guided Tour
  • Hotel pickup
  • Topkapi Palace with Harem
  • Basilica Cistern

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Report Product Issue

Activity name