Explore the heritage of the Ottoman Empire in the Old City of Istanbul and inside the Blue Mosque with a local expert guide. Afterwards discover relics from the Byzantine era, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, inside the magical Basilica Cistern.
- Feel the history of the ancient Byzantine & Ottoman Empire come to life as you explore
- Admire the Medusa heads at the cistern and check out blue iznik tiles at the Blue Mosque
- Save yourself time with pre-booked skip-the-line tickets and an audio guide for the Basilica
- Enjoy a passionate guide
Basilica Cistern
- Skip the line tickets
- English speaking tour guide
- Audio guide on your smartphone
Blue Mosque
- English speaking tour guide
- Hotel pick up & drop off
- Food or drinks
Your ticket allows you to skip the ticket lines of Basilica Cistern, but it is not possible to skip the security line. The security line at Basilica Cistern can take up to 30 minutes in high season.
The Blue Mosque has no admission charge and no ticket lines, however there is a security check line, which can take up to 30 minutes during the mid season and up to 60 minutes during the high season. But don't worry, during your waiting time, your guide, who has very good information and great client relation skills, will entertain you with great stories, facts and useful information about Istanbul.
What to bring
- Headscarf for the Mosque
Not allowed
- Short skirts & shorts
Know before you go
- Women must cover their hair and shoulders. Scarves are available for 100 TRY.
- Men & women must cover their knees. If you wear shorts, you can buy a bodycover for 100 TRY.
Tour Duration
- approx. 2 hours Blue Mosque (including security line)
- approx. 60 minutes inside Basilica Cistern
- Non-refundable
2024 MegaPass by
There's nothing like the experience of a passionate local guide to get you excited about somewhere new. And this tour of Istanbul's Blue Mosque and Basilica Cistern is designed to leave no stone unturned when it comes to your education about two of the city's most impressive landmarks.
Meet your English-speaking guide at the in the Old City across from the Blue Mosque.
Journey back in time in the courtyards of the Blue Mosque. Together with your guide, step inside and admire the architecture and the famous blue Iznik tiles. As you explore, learn about Byzantine and Ottoman heritage, Islam, and Istanbul's rich history from your guide.
At Basilica Cistern, skip the long ticket lines with your guide and discover what lies beneath the streets of Istanbul. Wander through the ancient cistern and admire the architecture and Medusa heads from Greek mythology.