| Day of the Week | Opening Hours | Last Admission |
|---|---|---|
|
Monday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Tuesday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Wednesday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Thursday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Friday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Saturday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
|
Sunday |
9:00 - 22:00 |
18:30
|
The Basilica Cistern is accessible every day of the year, including holidays. A typical visit lasts between 30 minutes to an hour. For a more comfortable visit, consider coming early in the morning or late in the afternoon, especially during the less crowded months from March to May and September to October.
Plan your trip to the Basilica Cistern during Istanbul’s mild spring (March to May) or autumn (September to October) for comfortable sightseeing. For budget travelers, winter offers fewer crowds and better deals on travel essentials.
Allocate 30 minutes to an hour to explore the Basilica Cistern’s famous Medusa Heads and serene waters. Guided tours are available and typically last up to an hour, allowing ample time for personal exploration afterward.
Yes, the Basilica Cistern welcomes visitors every day of the year, operating from 09:00 from 22:00.
No, the Basilica Cistern remains open throughout the year, including all public holidays.
To fully appreciate the architectural marvels of the Basilica Cistern, including the Medusa Heads, the Weeping Column, and the 336 ornate columns, plan to spend about 30 minutes to an hour.
The ideal months to visit the Basilica Cistern are from March to May and from September to October, when Istanbul enjoys more temperate weather, making your visit more comfortable.
Yes, the Basilica Cistern is open on public holidays, with hours from 09:00 to 19:00, ensuring visitors can experience its wonders every day of the year.
