We visited Istanbul for only a couple of days, and since April did not spoil us with weather (it rained almost constantly), we literally galloped through the main attractions of the city. And for this reason I had to “hide” in the depths of the reservoir called “Basilica Cistern”. Staying here gave us respect for this mysterious underground structure, which cannot be said about the price tag for visiting it.☝️

Yerebatan is one of the places that I admire while visiting. In addition to its history, its atmosphere is also quite attractive... I can say that it is a place where you can take beautiful shots. Its current state is cleaner than before the restoration... but it is a bit muggy and humid.

The first time I came to Istanbul, now more than fifty years ago, the guide opened a small window at street level and illuminated the inside of the cistern with a torch. Twenty years later I returned and the cistern had become accessible, with the possibility of going down a ladder. Shortly thereafter they created the walkways over the water. Then they played opera music in the background. Afterwards, a drinks vending machine. In the end a real bar which was then removed. The cistern finds no peace.

We visited this ‘on spec’ and based on other reviews. We weren’t disappointed. It was not a long visit but really different to learn about the underground water storage. There were some info boards at the start, then you wandered round. Took maybe 40 mins or so. Mood lights and sculptures added to the interest. They could perhaps put more info as you go round rather than just at the start. Or give facts and info for kids.

Last year when we visited, it was closed, so we couldn't explore it. This year, seeing it renovated, we were extremely impressed. It's truly enchanting, almost magical. The moment you step inside, it feels like you're in a different world.

Although the Basilica Cistern, one of the historical buildings of Istanbul, is open every day of the week between 9:00 - 22:00, it is still busy. If you have the opportunity, I recommend you visit the Cistern, which attracted great attention from local and foreign tourists after the restoration, on weekdays and in the morning. The lighting turns into a riot of colors at regular intervals. The natural ventilation inside is excellent, photography is allowed with flash, 33 TL for students, 88 TL for Turks, 660 TL for foreigners. Museum card is invalid. These prices are valid until 18:00, unfortunately after 19:00 in the evening they are 250 TL

I would consider it's in top-3 attractions in Istanbul, along with Hagia Sophia. It was quite crowdy in weekend. It has quite mis-leading directions to entrance / ticket office, so I saw many people looking around for entrance. Highly recommend.

Very nice place, too many people. For information, we went to visit the cistern at 8:30 p.m.: price 1000 LT. There are 4 of us. We leave without visiting, a little disgusted. Actually, you have to visit before 7 p.m., it's 600 LT. Do not get fooled

Basilica Cistern is an impressive world underground. The dimly lit pathways lead to a breathtaking reservoir, adorned with ancient columns and of course famous Medusa head. The eerie yet enchanting ambiance makes it a unique and must-see attraction in Istanbul, echoing with centuries of history.

We were amazed at the architecture here. This was built to provide water to the city. It was well worth the cost. If you are overheard as a tourist (foreign language, foreign clothes, etc) some shop keepers will give you free advice and then "meet" you as you exit to try to take you to their shop to buy carpets and jewellery.