Istanbul: Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace Combo Ticket

Istanbul’s iconic Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace are must-see attractions for any visitor. The combo ticket provides an opportunity to explore these stunning sites at one’s own pace, with skip-the-line access and an audio guide to enhance the experience. Whether you’re marveling at the grand architecture of the Ottoman sultan’s former residence or descending into the city’s remarkable underground water reservoir, this package offers a chance to uncover the rich history and culture of this vibrant destination.

Key Points

• The Basilica Cistern and Topkapi Palace combo ticket starts at $96.07 per person and is valid for 3 days from first use.
• The combo ticket allows visitors to skip the line at both Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern, providing a convenient and efficient experience.
• Topkapi Palace offers timed entry slots from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, while the Basilica Cistern can be visited between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
• The combo ticket includes an audio guide app and earphones, enhancing the sightseeing experience, but does not include a guided tour.
• The meeting point for the combo ticket is the City Windows Tours & Tickets kiosk inside Topkapi Cafe next to Hagia Sophia Mosque.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Ticket Details

The price for this combined ticket is from $96.07 per person.

This combined ticket costs a starting price of $96.07 per person.

The ticket is valid for 3 days from first use and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Guests can skip the line at both the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern.

The Topkapi Palace timed entry slots are available from 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM, while the Basilica Cistern ticket is valid for entry between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Attractions Overview

Topkapi Palace was the former residence of Ottoman sultans and the administrative heart of the empire for 25 sultans over four centuries. Nearby, the Basilica Cistern is an iconic underground water reservoir showcasing Byzantine architecture. Both attractions offer a glimpse into Istanbul’s rich history.

| Attraction | Overview |

|————|———-|

| Topkapi Palace | Former residence of Ottoman sultans, administrative heart of the empire for 25 sultans over four centuries. |

| Basilica Cistern | An iconic underground water reservoir showcasing Byzantine architecture. |

These two must-see sights are included in the combo ticket, allowing visitors to skip the lines and explore at their own pace.

Entry and Timing

Visitors can choose from various timed entry slots to access Topkapi Palace, with slots available at 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 11:00AM, 11:30AM, 12:30PM, 1:00PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM, 3:00PM, 3:30PM, and 4:00PM.

For the Basilica Cistern, the ticket is valid for entry between 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM and is sent via email a day before the tour.

The key details are:

1. Topkapi Palace timed entry slots

2. Basilica Cistern ticket valid for entry between 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

3. Topkapi Palace ticket sent via email a day before the tour

4. No re-entry allowed after leaving Topkapi Palace.

Inclusions

This combo ticket includes a skip-the-line entry to Topkapi Palace, where a host will escort visitors.

It also provides a skip-the-line ticket to the Basilica Cistern. An audio guide app and earphones are included to enhance the experience.

The package doesn’t include a guided tour, but a host will accompany guests to the entrance of each attraction.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are also part of the inclusions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Important Information

The meeting point for this tour is the City Windows Tours & Tickets kiosk inside the Topkapi Cafe, located next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque.

This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users. The Topkapi Palace is closed on Tuesdays, and re-entry isn’t allowed after leaving.

Visitors can expect a mandatory security queue for the Topkapi Palace, which can take up to 10 minutes during the high season. Plus, there’s no guided tour – the host will only escort visitors to the entrance of the attractions.

Key information:

1. Meeting point: City Windows Tours & Tickets kiosk

2. Wheelchair accessibility: Not suitable

3. Topkapi Palace: Closed on Tuesdays, no re-entry allowed

4. Security queue: Up to 10 minutes during high season

Getting to the Meeting Point

To get to the meeting point, one can make their way to the Topkapi Cafe, which is located right next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. The cafe serves as the check-in location for the tour.

Directions to the meeting point:

| Mode | Directions |

| — | — |

| Walking | From Hagia Sophia, walk approximately 2 minutes west towards Sultanahmet Square. The Topkapi Cafe will be on your right, next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. |

| Public Transport | Take the tram to Sultanahmet station. The Topkapi Cafe is a 2-minute walk from the station, located next to the Hagia Sophia Mosque. |

Arriving at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the tour’s start time is recommended.

Tour Highlights

Explore the grandeur of Istanbul’s iconic landmarks with the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern combo ticket. This package offers:

1. Skip-the-line access to both attractions, allowing you to breeze past the crowds.

2. Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, where you’ll discover its rich history and stunning architecture.

3. The Basilica Cistern, an underground Byzantine wonder, showcasing its remarkable engineering and atmospheric ambiance.

4. Convenient digital tickets and audio guides to enhance your self-guided experience.

Enjoy the captivating history and architectural marvels of these two must-see Istanbul sites with this comprehensive combo ticket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Photos Allowed Inside the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern?

Photos are generally allowed inside Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern, though flash photography may be prohibited. Visitors should check for any restrictions on photography at the entrance of each attraction.

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Topkapi Palace?

There’s no strict dress code for visiting the Topkapi Palace, but visitors should dress modestly. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are generally discouraged, as the palace is an important cultural and historical site.

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks Inside the Attractions?

Visitors can generally bring their own snacks and drinks into the Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern. However, it’s best to avoid consuming food or beverages in sensitive areas and to dispose of any waste properly.

Is There a Cloakroom or Luggage Storage Available at the Sites?

There is no luggage storage or cloakroom available at Topkapi Palace or the Basilica Cistern. Visitors are advised to travel light as large bags and backpacks are not permitted inside these attractions.

Can I Purchase Additional Audio Guides or Language Options On-Site?

Yes, additional audio guides or language options can be purchased on-site if needed. The combo ticket includes an audio guide app and earphones, but visitors can get extra guides or translations directly from the venues if preferred.

The Sum Up

The Istanbul: Basilica Cistern & Topkapi Palace Combo Ticket offers a convenient and enriching way to explore two of Istanbul’s most iconic attractions. With skip-the-line access, an audio guide app, and hotel pickup, visitors can seamlessly experience the grandeur of Topkapi Palace and the stunning Basilica Cistern at their own pace. This combo ticket provides an excellent value for those seeking to make the most of their time in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: