Private Tour
Available languages
40 minutes
Mobile ticket
This is the most preferred tour by visitors who value their time, comfort, and cultural experience.
Attention ♦️: The entrance ticket fee for the Basilica Cistern Museum is not included. Guests are kindly requested to pay the ticket fee in cash to the tour guide at the museum entrance.
no waiting in line, no crowds, just a smooth, premium experience.
• Skip the very long ticket lines
• Enjoy a private and privileged experience
• This is a luxury, VIP, and private guided tour service
• Feel free to ask any questions during the tour
• Receive detailed historical and cultural information
• First-class guiding service
• Licensed and nationwide tour guide with over ten years of experience
• After the tour, you’re welcome to stay inside and explore at your own pace
Organized by Septillion Travel Agency 18212
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Basilica Cistern
You will meet with your Guide at the entrance of Basilica cistern and skip the line and will have a short tour which will be around 40 minutes .
Official Tour Guide
Skip The Ticket Line
Basilica Cistern
27 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Nicola G,,Oct 19, 2025
- Review from Viator
Mohammed was more than what we could have asked for. He was a spectacular guide that also educated us on the area. I highly recommend him for any tour.
152hilarya,,Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mohammet was an amazing guide sharing a complete history of Istanbul and the major monuments tying it into the cistern. We enjoyed every second of our tour.

Janet I,,Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
Mohamed was a great guide. My husband and I were having trouble finding the front of the basilica and were approached by several people wanting to 'help' us and he spotted us even though it was well before our appointed time and saved us. He spotted us because we communicated several times on WhatsApp the night before and exchanged pictures. We went across the street for some great Turkish tea and he spent a good deal of time talking to us about the history of Istanbul and Turkey which was fascinating. We then proceeded to the Basilica and Mohamed arranged for the tickets and we walked right in. He took us on a tour and explained so much of the history. It was truly an amazing experience. Mohamed was extremely knowledgeable, professional and personable. We wished we could have spent the whole day touring with him as our guide to other sites. He also gave us directions at the end of other sites to see. We would highly recommend this tour especially with Mohamed.
326garyi,,Oct 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mohamed was a great guide. My husband and I were having trouble finding the front of the basilica and were approached by several people wanting to 'help' us and he spotted us even though it was well before our appointed time and saved us. He spotted us because we communicated several times on WhatsApp the night before and exchanged pictures. We went across the street for some great Turkish tea and he spent a good deal of time talking to us about the history of Istanbul and Turkey which was fascinating. We then proceeded to the Basilica and Mohamed arranged for the tickets and we walked right in. He took us on a tour and explained so much of the history. It was truly an amazing experience. Mohamed was extremely knowledgeable, professional and personable. We wished we could have spent the whole day touring with him as our guide to other sites. He also gave us directions at the end of other sites to see. We would highly recommend this tour especially with Mohamed.
richardbC8827XE,,Sep 10, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Mohamed was great company and offered us both more than a tour. He gave us a fascinating insight into Turkey’s history and the city of Istanbul. Very much enjoyed the experience and would recommend it.
Athena A,,Aug 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was amazing experience, we were shocked with extraordinary views. The guide is professional and scheduled each sites well, we learned the history and took the train crossing the tunnel, climbed hill, tasted local food. We are so lucky to meet Mr Muhammet.



Y5669HJstaceyt,,Jul 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Learned about the beauty of the Basilica Cistern & planned to go alone but chanced upon what turned out to be an amazing discovery! My guide turned 1 small tourist sight into an DAY & overview of Turkish life & culture. He listened and curated a unique experience for me that included things I wanted to see, shopping that was tailored to my goals. We traveled (not on a bus) like locals & he took me to see the Asian side, local fishing, a mosque... not enough space to cover all we did! He never stopped with educational facts & insisted upon unbiased information. His knowledge of carpet is impressive! I will keep and share his contact w anyone I love, visiting Istanbul!!









amand278,,May 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Best tour in Istanbul, very informative was very good and patient with all our questions, took us for tea before the private tour. Highly Recommended 100%. One of the best tour guide in Istanbul.
AMAN D,,May 17, 2025
- Review from Viator
Excellent Highly recommended!! He is the best tour guide in Istanbul. Got us tea , coffee before the tour , Is amazing with kids , We had a wonderful evening
Z1693CVrachelg,,May 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We booked in for a second trip with Muhammet today and it was just as good as the first (Haggia Sofia). He really knows his stuff and is very enthusiastic about his subject. We loved the tour and would highly recommend. We were able to jump the queue which was a real bonus. Thanks again Muhammet.

Operated by Hagia Sophia guide