Overview
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Beneath the sun-soaked streets and stunning architecture lies a darker side to istanbul. Descend deep below istanbul's centrum into a parallel city, a city that is more than 1500 years old. Stretching across an enormous area of former quarry and made up of an intricate series of tunnels, this macabre site is one of the most fascinating places you’ll visit during your stay in istanbul.
Explore the unknown side of this gigantic city. Lurking below the city’s ancient boulevards, public gardens, and museums, this mysterious sight has become one of istanbul’s unmissable tourist attractions.
Watch as these spine-chilling remains are brought back to life before your eyes, as your expert guide recants the tales of a Constantinople gone-by and a glorious past time wishes we remember again.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What To Expect
Serpent Column
The Serpent Column (Ancient Greek: Τrikarenos Οphis "Three-headed Serpent"), also known as the Serpentine Column, Plataean Tripod or Delphi Tripod, is an ancient bronze column at the Hippodrome of Constantinople in Istanbul, Turkey.
Discover the hidden gem of Istanbul with a visit to the Theodosius Cistern! Nestled beneath the bustling streets of this historic city, the Theodosius Cistern offers a breathtaking glimpse into the past. Marvel at the stunning Byzantine architecture, with its elegantly arched columns and serene pools reflecting the intricate stonework. This underground marvel, less crowded than the famous Basilica Cistern, provides an intimate and awe-inspiring experience. Whether you're a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Theodosius Cistern promises a unique adventure into Istanbul's rich heritage. Don’t miss the chance to explore this captivating subterranean world!
Options
Ghost City istanbul Walking Tour
What‘s Included
All Local Taxes
Professional Guidance
Tickets
Entry Admissions
Tips
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
30 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Happy to book this service
M5918OAmariab,May 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The visit went very well. Everything was explained very well without being too complicated. This tour really lets you discover a hidden side of istanbul, including historical details that are still visible today. A big thank you to Rose, our guide, who led this tour brilliantly! Going around with her is like visiting with friends. Her knowledge of history, thanks to her studies, was a great plus. The icing on the cake: the list of restaurants she recommended to us. Thanks to her for this great visit!
Really one of kind experience
darrenlZ7780GA,Apr 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Underground musuem and columns are amazingly beautiful. It’s mind-blowing to know that it’s so old. Suddenly you feel like you’re in another universe.
Loveliest tour guide ever!!
Tue M,Feb 21, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Rose was incredibly lovely and enthusiastic as she took us through the history of Istanbul from some of its most significant landmarks. Her stories are engaging and thought-provoking, drawing connections between different eras and cultures. I learned so many things I never knew before like the connection between the Medusa and the Evil Eye, or the myth of Turkey's own queen of snakes. Highly recommend both this tour and the tour guide!!
Unforgettable Ghost City Walking Tour!
vecerv,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Ghost City Istanbul Walking Tour was absolutely amazing! 🤩It offered a fascinating look at the hidden, lesser-known side of the city, and I was captivated by the eerie, historical sites we explored. Our guide was simply awesome–so friendly, knowledgeable, and full of interesting stories that really brought the history to life. It was clear that they truly loved sharing their passion for Istanbul. Highly recommend this tour for anyone looking for a unique and insightful experience!🫶👍
Great experience
stefaniabL8854SQ,Jan 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I really enjoyed this tour and had a wonderful experience with our guide. Everything was well organized, informative, and fun, and the atmosphere was very pleasant throughout. I definitely recommend to book a tour with Rose to anyone visiting Istanbul.
Great tour and Rose was incredible
Elina A,Sep 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00We had the absolute pleasure of touring with Rose, and she was incredible from start to finish! 🌟 She’s not only extremely knowledgeable, but also has such a warm and engaging way of sharing information. Rose took the time to explain everything in detail, answering questions with patience and enthusiasm. I learned so much thanks to her, and she made the experience both fun and fascinating. Her passion for what she does truly shines through, and it made all the difference. I would 100% recommend Rose as a guide—you won’t just see the sights, you’ll come away with a much deeper appreciation and understanding.
Cool history however this is not a ghost store. This is a really cool historical walking tour, which I highly recommend
Wander677066,Jul 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It’s a very cool historical walking tour… We learned a lot about the real Constantinople versus the size at Istanbul is today… The sisters are absolutely amazing
History brought to life
X9782CAbaileys,Jun 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00As a Canadian tourist, what absolutely blew me away was how your guide could weave together the intricate stories of emperors, sultans, and architects across centuries! Standing in the Basilica Cistern and hearing about the Medusa heads - how they were placed upside down, that level of detail was incredible. Our guide's knowledge of the stories of places intrigue made me feel like I was walking through a living novel. The way she explained the architectural genius behind the Hagia Sophia's massive dome - how it seemed to float without visible support and influenced mosque design for centuries - was absolutely captivating. And learning about the secret meanings behind the Iznik tiles' patterns in the Blue Mosque, each color and design telling a story, showed such deep cultural understanding.
Excellent tour
238bernardz,May 31, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Istanbul is breathtaking but underground is another world. We enjoyed every second with Rose. This city is more than what it seems, every corner has a different story and sightseeing surprise. This whole city is like an open air museum itself.
A unique tour
767tedk,Feb 18, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Underground of Istanbul is something I have never experienced before. You can find a medusa underneath Hagia Sophia, really amazing
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Operated by RoseTheGuide - Istanbul Tour Guides