Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide
Museums
Show&Go QR Tickets
Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip the Line Online Ticket is Included with Istanbul Tourist Pass®
Museums
Price Without Pass: €28
14% Discounted with Istanbul Tourist Pass® : €24
Your digital pass includes:
![]()
Free
access to 100+ top Attractions![]()
All
digital, Show&Go easy Access![]()
Saving
guarantee after purchase
Free
access to 100+ top Attractions![]()
Huge
savings up to 70%![]()
Starting
from
just €119
![]()
Cancel
anytime!
Exploring the Depths: Serefiye Cistern Unveiled
Welcome to the Serefiye Cistern, a hidden gem nestled beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul. As you step into this subterranean marvel, prepare to be transported back in time to an era of ingenious engineering and vital resource management. With its towering columns and serene atmosphere, the Serefiye Cistern stands as a testament to the city's rich history and resilience.
Enjoy this mystical place without waiting in the ticket lines with your digital QR ticket! Join us on this immersive journey as we uncover the secrets of one of Istanbul's hidden gems, brought to you at a discount by Istanbul Tourist Pass®.
Check out our Tours & Attractions Admission Program and pre-book your discounted Serefiye Cistern Ticket.
About The Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide
Mobile ticketing - No need for printed voucher, we're digital!
Duration - Unlimited free time in Serefiye Cistern
Instant confirmation - Pre-booking is required.
Audio Guide - English
Highlights
Skip the long ticket lines and enter the mysterious Serefiye Cistern with ease
Get your QR code easily when you are in close proximity to the entrance of the Cistern
Dive into the richness of Istanbul's past as you explore the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern, a historical marvel steeped in 1600 years of captivating history.
Explore the captivating history of the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern with expertly crafted narration, providing fascinating insights into its significance and legacy spanning centuries.
Enjoy the flexibility of exploring the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern at your own pace with the convenience of an audio guide, allowing you to pause, rewind, and replay key information as you delve deeper into its storied past.
Discover the hidden gems and lesser-known anecdotes of the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern with comprehensive coverage that highlights its architectural features, historical context, and cultural significance, ensuring a holistic understanding of this iconic landmark.
Enrich your visit with expertly crafted commentary, making your exploration more informative and enjoyable.
Includes
Entrance to Serefiye Cistern Online Ticket
Serefiye Cistern Audio Guide
About the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern
Hidden beneath the bustling streets of Istanbul lies the Serefiye Cistern, a marvel of ancient engineering and ingenuity. Dating back to the Byzantine era and later expanded during the Ottoman period, this subterranean structure served as a vital reservoir for the city, ensuring a steady water supply in times of need. With its impressive columns and serene ambiance, the cistern stands as a testament to the city's rich history and the innovative solutions devised by its inhabitants. Today, visitors can explore its labyrinthine corridors and marvel at its architectural splendor, gaining insight into Istanbul's past while experiencing the Serefiye Cistern's timeless allure.
Get your online ticket easily when you arrive at the Serefiye Cistern. Just Show&Go your online ticket and get into the breathtaking Cistern. Self-discover this incredible place by listening to the specially curated audio guide, exclusively prepared by your Pass!
With the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can enjoy an immersive audio guide at the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern for FREE, enhancing your visit with rich historical insights and details about its stunning architecture. Check here for other amazing Historical Landmarks in Istanbul! This digital pass grants access to over 100 attractions and services, ensuring a comprehensive Istanbul experience. BUY NOW!
Hours & Meeting
Serefiye Cistern is open to visitors every day of the week between 9.00 AM and 7.00 PM
How To Get There?
The Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern is conveniently located in Istanbul's Historical Peninsula, making it easily accessible for visitors. Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of the city or embarking on a historical tour, reaching the cistern is straightforward.
By Public Transportation
Tram: Take the T1 tram line and get off at Gülhane or Sirkeci stations. From there, it's a short walk to the cistern.
Metro: If you're coming from other parts of the city, the Marmaray metro line connects to Sirkeci Station, from where you can walk to the cistern.
By Taxi
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Istanbul. Simply provide the driver with the address or name of the cistern, and they'll take you directly to your destination.
On Foot
If you're already exploring the Historical Peninsula, consider walking to the Şerefiye Cistern. It's a pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Istanbul, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere along the way.
Get DirectionsImportant Information
This is not a guided tour. Enjoy discovering Serefiye Cistern at your own pace by listening to the specially curated Audio Guide.
The QR tickets are only shown when you are in close proximity to the entrance of Serefiye Cistern.
You need an Internet connection on your smartphone to get your QR tickets. For unlimited internet access get your mobile hotspot device with a discount here.
Children will be asked to present their valid passports at the entrance of the museums in order to validate their age. Children under 5 can enter the museum for free.
You can buy your online ticket separately from the Istanbul Tourist Pass®
Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide Discounted with
![]()
Avoid paying the extra entrance fee for the Serefiye Cistern and skip the ticket queues with the Istanbul Tourist Pass®
Serefiye Cistern Entrance is included with Istanbul Tourist Pass® with a Skip&Go digital QR ticket.
Save Up To 70%
All About Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide
Mesmerizing visitors with a history spanning 1600 years, the Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern seamlessly integrates history with art and technology, pioneering the use of a 360° mapping system for the first time in Turkey. Situated in Istanbul's Historical Peninsula, this cistern stands as one of the earliest examples of the city's water structures, believed to have been built during the reign of Theodosius II (408-450) based on its architectural characteristics.
Cisterns: The Lifeblood of the City
Throughout Istanbul's history, structures for water storage were essential due to insufficient sources, high population, and frequent sieges. The Şerefiye and Basilica cisterns are notable examples, supplying water to various parts of the city. The Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern, covering a 24m x 40m area with a ceiling height of 11 meters, features 45 sail vaults and 32 columns adorned with Corinthian capitals made of specially imported Marmara Island marble. Its inner walls are lined with watertight plaster, and its design ensures pressure resistance with curved corners and thick walls.
The Hidden Heritage of 1600 Years
Named after Roman Emperor Theodosius II, the cistern's surroundings have undergone transformations over centuries. The Arif Pasa Estate, constructed in the late 18th or early 19th century, once housed the Istanbul Municipality and later served various municipal functions. Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's demolition of adjacent buildings in 2010 revealed the Theodosius Cistern without damaging the monument, leading to the creation of an archaeological park around it.
The Şerefiye Cistern boasts the world's first museum implementation of a 360° projection mapping system. This innovative technology offers a unique interactive experience, providing three-dimensional spatial perception and tracing the water culture of both the cistern and Istanbul.
The third part of the show offers a reinterpretation of Istanbul's collective memory and historical layers, bringing to life periods from Byzantine to Ottoman times through vivid interpretations and accompanying icons and Turkish tile art.
A New Historical Space Experience
In the final part of the show, the story shifts to the founding of the Turkish Republic following the Turkish War of Independence. The mapping display reflects the cistern's unique historical and architectural significance, marking the end of a journey through 1600 years of history.
Gallery
Advantages Of Istanbul Tourist Pass®
By having the Istanbul Tourist Pass®, you can visit more than 100+ attractions in Istanbul. You can save huge amount of time and money by not waiting in the long queues or paying fees at the entrances of the museums or for other facilities and activities. You can buy the Istanbul Tourist Pass®️ for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 or 10 days. So many attractions are available with Istanbul Tourist Pass®️ such as Topkapı Palace, Hagia Sophia, Dolmabahçe Palace, Sapanca Lake daily tour, Dinner on the Bosphorus, Istanbul Airport Shuttle etc. included in the pass. For more details and updated attractions available with the pass can be found on website.
Serefiye (Theodosius) Cistern Skip-the-Ticket-Line Entry with Audio Guide Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of the Şerefiye Cistern?
Is there an entrance fee to visit the Serefiye Cistern?
Yes, you can buy your online Serefiye Cistern ticket with a great discount with your Pass and get a free audio guide.
Are guided tours available at the Serefiye Cistern?
Yes, guided tours are often available at the Serefiye Cistern. But an independent audio guided tour at your own pace is always better!
Is the Şerefiye Cistern accessible for individuals with mobility impairments?
Accessibility options may vary, but efforts are made to ensure that the Şerefiye Cistern is accessible to all visitors. Facilities such as ramps and elevators may be available, and staff members are on hand to assist individuals with mobility impairments.
Can I take photographs inside the Şerefiye Cistern?
Photography policies may vary, so it's best to check with the staff or signage at the cistern. In general, photography for personal use is often allowed, but flash photography and tripods may be prohibited to preserve the historic environment.
Are there any restrictions on what I can bring inside the Şerefiye Cistern?
Certain items such as large bags, food, and beverages may be restricted inside the Şerefiye Cistern to ensure the safety and preservation of the site. Visitors are encouraged to review the cistern's guidelines before their visit to avoid any inconvenience
Is there a gift shop or café at the Şerefiye Cistern?
Some cisterns may have a gift shop or café on-site where visitors can purchase souvenirs or refreshments. However, amenities may vary, so it's a good idea to inquire about available facilities before your visit.
Can I host events or special occasions at the Şerefiye Cistern?
The Şerefiye Cistern may offer rental options for events or special occasions, such as weddings, receptions, or corporate functions. Contact the cistern's management for more information on hosting events at this unique venue.
Is the Şerefiye Cistern suitable for children and families?
Yes, the Şerefiye Cistern can be an educational and enjoyable experience for children and families. However, parents should supervise their children closely due to the cistern's historic and sometimes dimly lit environment.
Other Popular Attractions
4.8 out of 5 stars
Istanbul Tourist Pass® has an average rating of 4.8 /5 from 1711 reviews
Read all traveler reviews →
Serefiye Cistern is open every day between 9 AM and 7 PM.