"A true gem in the middle of the busy Sultanameth area of Istanbul. Small and beautiful boutique hotel helful staff, a very nice rooftop restaurant, and very luxurious rooms. Will definitely be back."
"A true gem in the middle of the busy Sultanameth area of Istanbul. Small and beautiful boutique hotel helful staff, a very nice rooftop restaurant, and very luxurious rooms. Will definitely be back."
"Very thoughtful staff. Clean and updated rooms breakfast had nice variety and changed daily.
Can get airport transfer arranged thru the hotel, found it fairly priced and very convenient. Highly recommend, would stay again"
"Very thoughtful staff. Clean and updated rooms breakfast had nice variety and changed daily.
Can get airport transfer arranged thru the hotel, found it fairly priced and very convenient. Highly recommend, would stay again"
"We had a wonderful stay! The staff were incredibly friendly, helpful, and accommodating throughout our visit. They even helped us with our luggage, which we really appreciated.
We were pleasantly surprised to receive a room upgrade, which made our stay even more special. Every staff member we encountered genuinely went out of their way to help whenever possible and made us feel very welcome.
The location was also very good and convenient for getting around and exploring the area. Breakfast was...
"We had a wonderful stay! The staff were incredibly friendly, helpful, and accommodating throughout our visit. They even helped us with our luggage, which we really appreciated.
We were pleasantly surprised to receive a room upgrade, which made our stay even more special. Every staff member we encountered genuinely went out of their way to help whenever possible and made us feel very welcome.
The location was also very good and convenient for getting around and exploring the area. Breakfast was...
"Great location, super helpful staff. Breakfast was great and served in the rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Sultanahmet district and the mosques nearby. The only quibble we had was that our room was on the small side and more space would have been welcome."
"Great location, super helpful staff. Breakfast was great and served in the rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the Sultanahmet district and the mosques nearby. The only quibble we had was that our room was on the small side and more space would have been welcome."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can study the exhibits at Le Arts Turcs, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Istanbul. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
You can find out about the history of Istanbul when you stop by The Million Stone. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its fascinating museums.
Enjoy an outing to Whirling Dervish Ceremony in Fatih during your stay in Istanbul. Stroll along the seaside or visit the stunning cathedral in the area.
After visiting Firuzaga Mosque, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Istanbul. Stroll along the seaside or visit the shops in the area.
You can learn about the history of Istanbul when you stop by CaferaÄa Medresesi. Stroll along the area's seaside or experience its acclaimed art scene.
Brand new hotel with clean rooms, located 5 min walk from Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazar, Arasta Bazar nearby (walking distance), this is hotel to stay in Istanbul. Breakfast is good and served to the table.
Brand new hotel with clean rooms, located 5 min walk from Hagia Sophia, and Grand Bazar, Arasta Bazar nearby (walking distance), this is hotel to stay in Istanbul. Breakfast is good and served to the table.
Arindam
Reviewed October 11, 2026Reviewed October 11, 2026
Not an issue for us but there is no elevator in the Royan. No ground floor rooms. That said, the desk clerk was more than happy to take our bags up. Great location among restaurants & bars and short walking distance to Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque & other things. Definitely would stay here again!
Not an issue for us but there is no elevator in the Royan. No ground floor rooms. That said, the desk clerk was more than happy to take our bags up. Great location among restaurants & bars and short walking distance to Grand Bazaar, Blue Mosque & other things. Definitely would stay here again!
The Celine is a very nice hotel tucked into a small street not far from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The staff was helpful. The breakfast was awesome (cold cuts/bread at hand, and hot food such as omelettes and pancakes made to order). The breakfast servers were especially friendly and professional. We enjoyed seeing them each morning as we got our day started. Our room on the 4th floor had a great view all the way to the water. Wifi worked well. Bed was comfortable. Room was...
The Celine is a very nice hotel tucked into a small street not far from Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The staff was helpful. The breakfast was awesome (cold cuts/bread at hand, and hot food such as omelettes and pancakes made to order). The breakfast servers were especially friendly and professional. We enjoyed seeing them each morning as we got our day started. Our room on the 4th floor had a great view all the way to the water. Wifi worked well. Bed was comfortable. Room was...
Ćzen (Ozzie -the night concierge) was the best concierge I have ever had the pleasure of working with. The first night we had a problem with the room, not only did he fix it quickly, but provided us several options and made sure to check on us everytime he saw us and sent some Turkish Delight to our room. I have never met a more genuine and caring person.
Housekeeping was lovely and efficient!
Breakfast was amazing, hats off to the restaurateur/manager, lovely gentleman, very committed to...
Ćzen (Ozzie -the night concierge) was the best concierge I have ever had the pleasure of working with. The first night we had a problem with the room, not only did he fix it quickly, but provided us several options and made sure to check on us everytime he saw us and sent some Turkish Delight to our room. I have never met a more genuine and caring person.
Housekeeping was lovely and efficient!
Breakfast was amazing, hats off to the restaurateur/manager, lovely gentleman, very committed to...
Anonymous traveler
Reviewed December 21, 2024Reviewed December 21, 2024
Excellent service of the staff General Manager and Guest manager Sarra.
Very nice interior decor modern with Turkish touch
The restaurant with wonderful Chef Esra Tokelli great tasty original food.
Guests will really enjoy Istambul in Amiral Palace
Excellent service of the staff General Manager and Guest manager Sarra.
Very nice interior decor modern with Turkish touch
The restaurant with wonderful Chef Esra Tokelli great tasty original food.
Guests will really enjoy Istambul in Amiral Palace
Sofiene
Reviewed September 14, 2021Reviewed September 14, 2021
Rooms and beds are new, and very comfortable. Staff exceedingly friendly and helpful. This is an excellent place to stay near Sultanamet if you want a more luxurious accomodations.
Rooms and beds are new, and very comfortable. Staff exceedingly friendly and helpful. This is an excellent place to stay near Sultanamet if you want a more luxurious accomodations.
Istanbul is a great city and you can't find a better location than hotel Sultania. All the main attractions (topkapi palace, hagia sophia, basilic cistern, blu mosque, Egyptian bazaar) are within walking distance, the longest we walked was to the grand bazaar which was about 1 km. However, the tram is right around the corner if you don't like to walk, and is very frequent. Even the ferries to galata and the Asian side are walking distance.
The hotel and the hotel staff are extraordinary. They...
Istanbul is a great city and you can't find a better location than hotel Sultania. All the main attractions (topkapi palace, hagia sophia, basilic cistern, blu mosque, Egyptian bazaar) are within walking distance, the longest we walked was to the grand bazaar which was about 1 km. However, the tram is right around the corner if you don't like to walk, and is very frequent. Even the ferries to galata and the Asian side are walking distance.
The hotel and the hotel staff are extraordinary. They...
When I booked this hotel I never thought that his hotel would be truly a luxurious haven in the heart of the Beyoglu distritct, near to most attractions. The rooms apart from spacious are tastefully decorated and contain every possible item a traveler could need. The top floor where breakfast and dinner is served provides extraordinary views of the bosforus, the horn and Topaki Palace. Also, the staff are very helpful. I hope to return soon.
When I booked this hotel I never thought that his hotel would be truly a luxurious haven in the heart of the Beyoglu distritct, near to most attractions. The rooms apart from spacious are tastefully decorated and contain every possible item a traveler could need. The top floor where breakfast and dinner is served provides extraordinary views of the bosforus, the horn and Topaki Palace. Also, the staff are very helpful. I hope to return soon.
This is going to sound like I'm being paid to write this but I assure you I'm the one who paid.
The hotel is a 4 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque & a 5 minute walk to the tram. Every employee there gets a 10/10 for helpfulness, politeness, & on being accommodating.
They helped me book tours, called taxis for me & gave me tips on how to navigate the city - who to speak to, who to stay away from, how much I should expect to pay for certain goods & services so I don't get...
This is going to sound like I'm being paid to write this but I assure you I'm the one who paid.
The hotel is a 4 minute walk to the Hagia Sophia & Blue Mosque & a 5 minute walk to the tram. Every employee there gets a 10/10 for helpfulness, politeness, & on being accommodating.
They helped me book tours, called taxis for me & gave me tips on how to navigate the city - who to speak to, who to stay away from, how much I should expect to pay for certain goods & services so I don't get...
Ajwa Sultanahmet is a stunning jewel hidden from plain view. Its very aesthetically done up inside and is in a great location if you want to explore the old city in Istanbul Great breakfast to get you started and a fantastic hotel overall. We travel quite a bit and this was one of the best places we've stayed in. Highly recommended
Ajwa Sultanahmet is a stunning jewel hidden from plain view. Its very aesthetically done up inside and is in a great location if you want to explore the old city in Istanbul Great breakfast to get you started and a fantastic hotel overall. We travel quite a bit and this was one of the best places we've stayed in. Highly recommended
Lovely hotel. I had stayed elsewhere prior in a very good place and this was better.
Hotel is very clean. Is a boutique hotel so only small (think 26 rooms). I was on 2nd floor, was quiet and had a great view to the Blue Mosque
Check in was friendly and fast, turkish coffee was served while doing the registration. Front desk is very nice, ambience is very good.
Staff are super helpful and even helped out lost people walking by. Were very good and attentive during my stay...
Lovely hotel. I had stayed elsewhere prior in a very good place and this was better.
Hotel is very clean. Is a boutique hotel so only small (think 26 rooms). I was on 2nd floor, was quiet and had a great view to the Blue Mosque
Check in was friendly and fast, turkish coffee was served while doing the registration. Front desk is very nice, ambience is very good.
Staff are super helpful and even helped out lost people walking by. Were very good and attentive during my stay...
Stunning Architecture: The Basilica Cistern features impressive Byzantine architecture, with beautiful columns and atmospheric lighting that create a unique ambiance.
Rich Historical Significance: This ancient underground water reservoir tells the story of Istanbul's history, dating back to the 6th century.
Proximity to Major Landmarks: Located near iconic sites like Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, it's easy to explore multiple attractions in one visit.
Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting nearby markets and neighborhoods filled with friendly locals.
Unique Photography Opportunities: The ethereal atmosphere and stunning reflections make for incredible photo opportunities throughout the cistern.
Find great hotels near Basilica Cistern
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations near the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, Türkiye. Whether you're looking for family-friendly options, business travel amenities, or a city-themed vacation experience, you'll find it all here. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, the area offers the best lodging choices for every type of traveler. Enjoy the convenience of being close to this historic site while experiencing the vibrant culture of Istanbul.
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class: Experience a blend of business comfort and spa relaxation at the Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class, a 4-star gem located just 483m from the Basilica Cistern. This hotel is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a city-themed vacation with top-notch amenities. Guests can unwind in the full-service spa featuring massage treatment rooms, body wraps, and a sauna, perfect for rejuvenation after a day of sightseeing. Its central location allows easy access to Istanbul's rich history and vibrant culture, making it a perfect base for both leisure and business travelers.
Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel: Just 161m from the Basilica Cistern, the 5-star Sura Hagia Sophia Hotel provides a family-friendly retreat with a touch of luxury. Ideal for business and family travel, this hotel goes the extra mile with amenities designed for children, including free cribs, a children's pool, and babysitting services available for an additional fee. The elegant accommodations and attentive service ensure a comfortable stay while allowing families to explore the historic treasures surrounding the hotel with ease.
Arden City Hotel - Special Class: Located a mere 161m from the Basilica Cistern, the Arden City Hotel - Special Class is a 4.5-star property that caters to those seeking culinary delights and vibrant city life. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, including complimentary breakfast and dinner services, along with a brunch restaurant. The hotel also offers entertainment amenities such as cable and LCD TVs, ensuring a cozy atmosphere after a day of exploration. With nearby metro stations, shopping districts, and historical sites, this hotel is perfect for travelers eager to soak in Istanbul's local culture.
Where to stay near Basilica Cistern
Exploring the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul offers a unique blend of history and culture. The surrounding area is filled with charming neighborhoods where you can experience friendly locals and luxurious boutiques. Don't miss nearby historical gems like the Hagia Sophia and Topkapi Palace, both just a short walk away. For shopping, the Grand Bazaar is a must-visit, providing a vibrant atmosphere that captures the essence of Istanbulās rich heritage.
Istanbul: As a vibrant metropolis, Istanbul offers an incredible blend of history, culture, and modernity. The Basilica Cistern is located in the heart of this bustling city, making it a perfect starting point for your exploration. Visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences, from shopping in lively markets to savoring delicious local cuisine. The city's iconic landmarks, including the historic squares and piazzas, are easily accessible, providing a rich tapestry of sights and sounds that will leave a lasting impression. Whether you're interested in cultural experiences or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Istanbul has something for everyone.
Sultanahmet: Sultanahmet is a district steeped in history and is home to the Basilica Cistern. This area attracts travelers year-round, particularly during peak times in March, July, and September. Known for its rich cultural offerings, Sultanahmet boasts numerous historic buildings, places of worship, and charming markets. As you wander through the cobblestone streets, you'll encounter iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, which are within walking distance. The mix of bustling shopping areas and serene historic spots makes Sultanahmet a must-visit for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in Istanbul's captivating past.
Old City: Located a mere 161m from the Basilica Cistern, Old City is a neighborhood that embodies the essence of Istanbul's rich heritage. This area sees a steady stream of visitors throughout the year, with peak times from August to October. Old City is filled with vibrant markets and shopping centers that offer a taste of local life. Nearby attractions include historic places and charming squares, perfect for leisurely strolls. The Old City's blend of culture and commerce ensures a delightful experience, making it an ideal spot for tourists eager to explore the city's storied past and lively present.
Things to do near Basilica Cistern
When visiting the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, explore nearby attractions for a well-rounded experience. Enjoy shopping at local markets and admire the vibrant art scene. Don't miss the chance to marvel at the stunning architecture of the cistern itself, which offers better sightseeing opportunities and a glimpse into the city's rich history. Make the most of your trip by immersing yourself in the culture surrounding this iconic landmark.
Shopping
The nearest shopping experience is the Grand Bazaar, only 805m from Basilica Cistern, offering a vibrant atmosphere for unique gifts. The Egyptian Bazaar, 1.1km away, also provides a taste of local culture. If you're up for a drive, check out Istanbul Cevahir Shopping and Entertainment Centre, located 6.4km away.
Recreation
Experience rejuvenation at Kilic Ali Pasha Hamam, where you can indulge in traditional body treatments that promote wellness and relaxation, located a mile from Basilica Cistern. For entertainment, enjoy the Whirling Dervishes performance, just 161m away, and immerse yourself in culture with a dance at Kumbaraci50, also 1.6km away.
Adventure
Explore the Sultans Trail, a scenic hiking trail only 322m from Basilica Cistern, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. For thrill-seekers, Istanbul Jumping offers an exhilarating bungee jumping experience 3.2km away. Additionally, Fethi PaÅa Korusu, located 4.8km away, provides a beautiful outdoor space for relaxation.
Nightlife
The nightlife around Basilica Cistern is vibrant and enchanting. Enjoy a captivating performance at Dance of Colours, just 644m away, or immerse yourself in the cultural ambiance at Mahseri Cumbus Hayalhane and Dostlar Tiyatrosu, both 3.2km from the cistern. Experience romance and entertainment in every venue.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Basilica Cistern
To save money on your visit to the Basilica Cistern, consider traveling between January and March, when accommodation prices are lower. Avoid booking on Thursdays, the priciest day, and opt for Saturdays for better deals. Use Expedia to filter for budget-friendly, eco-certified hotels, and sort results by price for the best options. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to additional savings. Don't forget to check for discounts and special offers to maximize your budget while enjoying the unique history of Istanbul.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Basilica Cistern are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Basilica Cistern is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Basilica Cistern is Thursday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expediaās search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Basilica Cistern hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Basilica Cistern
When visiting the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, immerse yourself in the rich culture by exploring nearby mosques, historic buildings, and palaces. Don't miss nearby landmarks and tourist spots, all within a short distance from the cistern. For a convenient stay, consider hotels in Old City Istanbul, allowing easy access to these attractions. A visit to the Basilica Cistern itself promises a captivating experience steeped in history and beauty.
Blue Mosque: Located just 322m from the Basilica Cistern, the Blue Mosque is renowned for its stunning blue tiles and majestic domes. Experience the serene ambiance and intricate architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of Istanbul.
Hagia Sophia: A mere 161m away, Hagia Sophia is a masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. Once a cathedral and now a museum, it offers a fascinating glimpse into history, showcasing magnificent mosaics and vast domes that have captivated visitors for centuries.
Galata Tower: Standing about 1.6km from the Basilica Cistern, the Galata Tower provides panoramic views of the city. This historic tower, with its medieval charm, invites you to discover the vibrant culture and history of Istanbul from above.
Best time to go to Basilica Cistern
The best time to visit Basilica Cistern can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Basilica Cistern falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Basilica Cistern falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
45.0°F (7.2°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
February
45.9°F (7.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
March
48.4°F (9.1°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly Low
April
54.3°F (12.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
May
63.7°F (17.6°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
June
72.5°F (22.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly High
July
77.4°F (25.2°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
August
77.9°F (25.5°C)
No Rain
Sunny
Average
Slightly High
September
72.3°F (22.4°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Average
October
63.9°F (17.7°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
November
57.2°F (14.0°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly Low
Average
December
49.6°F (9.8°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Basilica Cistern
To visit the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, you can fly into two major airports: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW). Istanbul Airport is situated 33.8km from the Basilica and offers nearby hotels like the 4-star Park Inn by Radisson, 9.7km away, and YOTEL Istanbul Airport LANDSIDE, only 322m from the terminal. Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is located 30.6km from the Basilica, with excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, just 3.2km away. Both airports provide convenient transportation services to their respective hotels, ensuring a smooth journey to explore this historic site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the area like around Basilica Cistern?
Basilica Cistern is located in a historic area of Istanbul known for its beautiful ocean views and stunning cathedral. If you're looking for a convenient place to stay, check out the 1245 hotels and other accommodations you'll find within a mile.
What's the best hotel to stay near Basilica Cistern?
How many hotels can I expect to find close to Basilica Cistern?
Expedia has 1245 hotels and other accommodations within a mile from Basilica Cistern.
If I need to cancel the hotel reservation for my stay near Basilica Cistern, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel room reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is often 24 or 48 hours before the scheduled arrival. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Enter your dates, click on "Search", then you can use the "fully refundable" filter to get the best deals available near Basilica Cistern.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip in the area near Basilica Cistern?
For more details about rescheduling or cancelling your stay near Basilica Cistern, head over to our customer service page.
What can I see and do near Basilica Cistern?
You'll want to browse the collections at Hagia Sophia, Turkish and Islamic Art Museum, and Topkapi Palace. Sultanahmet Square, Blue Mosque, and Galata Tower are some of the notable landmarks to see in the area. You can check out the local talent at Cemil Topuzlu Open Air Theatre, Galata Whirling Dervish Hall, and Baris Manco Kultur Merkezi.
How can I get to Basilica Cistern?
With so many ways to get around, seeing the area around Basilica Cistern is a breeze. Metro stations nearby include Sultanahmet Station and Cemberlitas Station. To see more of the larger area, ride aboard one of the trains from Istanbul Cankurtaran Station.