Topkapi Palace, Harem & Basilica Cistern Guided Walking Tour

5.0 (74 reviews) Istanbul, Turkey
Duration3h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

Discover Istanbul’s imperial heritage on this guided tour of must-see landmarks.

Start at Topkapi Palace, home of Ottoman sultans for over 400 years, and explore its grand courtyards and imperial halls with expert commentary. Continue into the Harem, where you’ll learn about palace life, royal families, and court traditions.

Then head underground to the atmospheric Basilica Cistern, a Byzantine masterpiece famous for its marble columns and mysterious Medusa head sculptures. Along the way, your guide will share engaging stories and historical insights that bring the city’s past to life.

This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a short yet immersive introduction to Istanbul’s Ottoman and Byzantine history.

Options

Topkapi Palace & Basilica

with Basilica: Kindly note that this option includes Topkapı & Basilica cistern

Topkapi Palace

without Basilica: This option Basilica cistern is not included

What's included

  • Entrance fees to Topkapi Palace
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Entry ticket to Basilica Cistern (if option is selected)
  • Transfer

What to expect

  1. TopkapI Palace
    2h · Admission ticket included
    Guided tour of Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans
  2. Basilica Cistern
    30m · Admission ticket not included
    On this 30-minute tour, visit the 4th-century Basilica Cistern and discover the mystery of Medusa heads from Greek mythology.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of "Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III" holding a Tourmania flag.

End point

Meet your guide in front of "Fountain of Sultan Ahmed III" holding a Tourmania flag.

Additional information

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

5.0 (74)
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€95.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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  • You'll choose your date and travelers and pay on viator.com. Prices vary by date, group size and option.
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