...I'm surprised to see it rated the #2 attraction in Istanbul. I think that Aya Sofya and Camii Sultanahmet (the "Blue Mosque") are both of greater architectural and historical significance. The Yerebatan Cistern (“Basilica Cistern”) is a giant cistern constructed with majestic columns and other stonework scavenged from ancient sites. A chase scene in the cistern was featured in the... more

The cistern is an easy place to visit yourself while in Istanbul. We were there in March and it was not crowded at all. A must see. more

This is the best known, and in some ways the most impressive of the cisterns you can visit. It is also the biggest. The entrance is across the tram tracks from haghia sofia, and it costs 10YTL to get in. you find yourself in a dimly lit, quite atmospheric area, filled with columns and the drip of water. As you... more

A chilly trip away from the scorching sun in Istanbul. It's very interesting to see these age-old structures and it's a really tough but beautiful shot. This cistern is thought to have been built during the Roman period, and called "Basilica Cisterns" because of a Stoa Basilica built above it. It was forgotten for a while but when re-discovered was... more

Also called the Basilica Cistern. This was a place I had a bit of trouble finding as if you don’t know it’s there you would miss it. It is located just across the street from Aya Sofia. Once you find the entrance you will definitely be rewarded with a unique site. The Basilica was built in AD 532 by Justinian... more

Stayed in Istanbul late January, 2006. The Cistern was a real highlight: so serene and peaceful underneath the hustle and bustle above. I understand there is another Cistern one can visit- will catch that one next time. My wife and I were watching 'To Russia With Love' the other day and I was pleasantly reminded of the fact that much... more

Less well known than the Haghia Sofia and the Blue Mosque (which are both nearby), this is one of the best sights in the city. Originally built by the Romans as the main drinking water supply for the city, it ressembles a flooded cathedral and the water is now full of fish. This is somewhere to go to get away... more

The Cistern is a very impressive place to visit and offers opportunities for some great pictures if you're a keen photographer! The sheer size of the cavern, the way it's beautifully lit, the Koi carp in the water and the carving on some of the stonework is all outstanding. The only thing to beware of are the signs warning you... more

One of the sights you definitely must visit when travelling to Istanbul! It is situated close to Hagia Sophia. We went there after a four-hour tour that included the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia and the Hippodrome. It was a very hot day but when we went down the stairs (careful there – you can easily lose your balance) the temperature... more