Basilica Cistern, Istanbul

This place is spectacular! Very dramatic and unique architectural design. Can not imagine how this place is well conserved. Each column structure has a very remarkable character. Very spacious and self-guided once you enter. It would have been nice if they offer a recorded audio tour to give people the opportunity to learn more about the place. If you want to skip the line highly recommend purchasing your tickets online. Also, note there is no restroom on site.

This is a must see when in Istanbul Turkey. The weekend we were here, there was a wait line but it moves pretty fast. We waited for our guide ans watched the people in line. If you want to bypass the line you need a tour guide. They will charge you for the tickets and tour 15-25 US per person. We only have 3 days here so the tour guide made sense. Beautiful cistern, 336 columns in total. They just renovated, and improved the walking platforms, made them higher. During contraction there was some modern art added. Looks amazing along with the original artifacts. Since the renovation, the entrance is at the side if the main building. Not the little one. It's just around the corner. 20 second walk. There are security guards that will help you. If meeting a guide, make sure you know where you meet them.