The “Sunken Palace” is one of the most striking remnants of Byzantine Constantinople and is the largest of hundreds of ancient underground reservoirs in Istanbul.

This archaeological dig site is on the to-do lists of many travelers to Sultanahmet. But Basilica Cistern isn't the area's only highlight. Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace are some other worthwhile sights nearby.

Plan a trip to see Basilica Cistern

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GLK PREMIER Regency Suites & Spa - Special Class

Istanbul City Center

Save 100% on your flight

per person

Jun 21 - Jun 24

Roundtrip flight included

Beirut (BEY) to Istanbul (IST)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)

Very nice active area

Reviewed on May 15, 2024

Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class

Istanbul City Center

per person

Jun 25 - Jun 30

Roundtrip flight included

Beirut (BEY) to Istanbul (IST)

9/10 Wonderful! (1,520 reviews)

very good Istanbul hotel, ideally located for exploring this beautiful city. Breakfast view is amazing - room a little more ordinary than we hoped for. All in all great hotel for long wkend stay

Reviewed on May 14, 2024

Bricks Hotel Istanbul

Bahcelievler

per person

Jun 25 - Jun 30

Roundtrip flight included

Beirut (BEY) to Istanbul (IST)

8.6/10 Excellent! (421 reviews)

I like the staff at Bricks: they are attentive, and helpful and go out of their way to help you if they can. The room was really quite nice and the breakfast was excellent. The only downsides are: trying to park at the property (It's on a very busy highway and you have to attract the attention of the doorman to get a valet to park your car, and the surrounding area which is poorly lit at night and seems rather out of the way and dingy. However, I would recommend it as being well worth the price and as a pleasant experience.

Reviewed on May 9, 2024

Browse tours and tickets to explore Basilica Cistern

Shows & concerts

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Bosphorus Dinner & Show Cruise (All Inclusive)

Free cancellation available

Shopping & fashion

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Monuments of Ottoman Empire Tour - Skip the Line Tickets

Free cancellation available

Food, drink & nightlife

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Taste of Two Continents: Istanbul Food Tour

Free cancellation available

Attractions

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Turkish Baths Experience at Cemberlitas Hamam with Private Transfer

Free cancellation available

History & culture

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Best of Istanbul: 1, 2 or 3-Day Private Guided Istanbul Tour

Free cancellation available

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