Basilica Cistern

Things to do near Basilica Cistern

Explore the enchanting Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, where you can enjoy fascinating audio tours that delve into its rich history and architectural marvels. Nearby, indulge in vibrant shopping opportunities and immerse yourself in local art, making your visit a well-rounded experience. Don't miss the chance to partake in the best guided tours available, ensuring you fully appreciate this magnificent underground wonder.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spots to Basilica Cistern include the Grand Bazaar, just 805m away, and the Egyptian Bazaar, 1.1km away, both bustling with local business vibes. If you're up for a drive, visit Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre, located 6.4km away, offering family-friendly entertainment.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam, a body treatment venue with a serene atmosphere, just 1.6km from the Basilica Cistern. For entertainment, enjoy the Whirling Dervishes Istanbul concert, located a mere 0.1.6km away, or immerse yourself in the cultural dance at Kumbaraci50, also 1.6km away.

Adventure

Embark on the Sultans Trail, a scenic hiking route 322m from Basilica Cistern, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For adrenaline junkies, experience the thrill of bungee jumping at Istanbul Jumping, located 3.2km away, or try the GMAX Reverse Bungy, 8.0km from the cistern.

Nightlife

Experience the enchanting nightlife near Basilica Cistern with a visit to the Dance of Colours theatre, just 644m away, offering a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Alternatively, Tiyatro-Z, 1.6km away, and Mahseri Cumbus Hayalhane, 3.2km away, promise captivating performances in a romantic setting.

Find the best attractions near Basilica Cistern

Within and around the Basilica Cistern, visitors can explore a variety of intriguing sites, including historic mosques, charming piazzas, and magnificent buildings. This area caters to those seeking cultural enrichment, urban experiences, and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for diverse travellers. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere that surrounds this iconic landmark in Istanbul.

• Hagia Sophia: This architectural marvel, located merely 161m from the Basilica Cistern, has a rich history as a church, mosque, and now a museum. Its magnificent dome and intricate mosaics reflect centuries of cultural evolution, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Blue Mosque: Situated 322m away, the Blue Mosque, or Sultan Ahmed Mosque, is renowned for its stunning blue tiles and grand minarets. This active place of worship offers visitors a serene atmosphere infused with spiritual culture and architectural beauty.
• Sultanahmet Square: Just 483m from the Basilica, this vibrant piazza serves as the heart of Istanbul, surrounded by historic landmarks. It’s an ideal spot to soak in the lively atmosphere, enjoy local street food, and marvel at the stunning views.

Best time to go to Basilica Cistern

The best time to visit Basilica Cistern can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Basilica Cistern falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Basilica Cistern falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	45.0°F (7.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	45.9°F (7.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	48.4°F (9.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
April	54.3°F (12.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	63.7°F (17.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
June	72.5°F (22.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	77.4°F (25.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	72.3°F (22.4°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
October	63.9°F (17.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	57.2°F (14.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	49.6°F (9.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Basilica Cistern

To save money on your trip to the Basilica Cistern, consider visiting between January and March, when accommodation prices are lower than in the summer months. Saturdays are typically the most affordable days to stay, while Thursdays are the priciest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels, and arrange your results from lowest to highest price for the best deals. Combining your hotel booking with flights and activities can also lead to significant savings. Additionally, explore free activities in Istanbul to enhance your experience without straining your budget.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Basilica Cistern are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Basilica Cistern is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Basilica Cistern is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your options according to your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel reservation for the Basilica Cistern with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.