The “Sunken Palace” is one of the most striking remnants of Byzantine Constantinople and is the largest of hundreds of ancient underground reservoirs in Istanbul.
Basilica Cistern
Visit Basilica Cistern
Sultanhan Hotel - Special Class
Istanbul City Center
per person
20 May - 25 May
Return direct flight included
Hong Kong (HKG) to Istanbul (IST)
9/10 Wonderful! (1,455 reviews)
This hotel is perfectly located to Old Town sites (literally minutes to walk everywhere), while still quiet and quaint. The staff were all very attentive, especially when our daughter took a tumble and needed some ice/mending. The hotel itself is older (though well kept and updated), so sound insulation isn’t what it could be- we always sleep with white noise anyway though. Beds were good, pillows great, breakfast was wonderful. They upgraded our room to have a French balcony.
Reviewed on 28 Mar 2024
Erten Konak - Special Class
Istanbul City Center
per person
20 May - 25 May
Return direct flight included
Hong Kong (HKG) to Istanbul (IST)
8/10 Very Good! (886 reviews)
It was pretty property, quite old fashioned and fits in with the vibes of the area. There was an unpleasant strong smell from the bathroom but found that in many places in Istanbul so that wasn’t too great - perhaps to do with plumbing in Istanbul in general?. The view out the window was pretty nice though. It’s a decent hotel, mostly clean. Was really there to sleep and explore the city, decent price. Expect what you pay for. Staff were polite enough and eager to help.
Reviewed on 27 Dec 2023
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Shows & concerts
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Food, drink & nightlife
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Reviews of Basilica Cistern
4.3
Top destination
4/5 - Good
Verified traveller
31 Dec 2019again, massively under repair. the Cistern of Philoxenos just round the corner was very good (and free) and no tourists as not really know
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
25 Nov 2019Worth seeing
3/5 - Okay
Verified traveller
4 Nov 2019Under renovation and currently drained (no water or fish as seen on our previous visit). However, the price charged is the same. You can still walk around the entire site and still see the heads of Medusa but it lacks the magic and eeriness compared to when it's full of water.
4/5 - Good
Verified traveller
30 Oct 2019Go early or late afternoon to beat the crowds.
4/5 - Good
Verified traveller
21 Oct 2019Worth a look!
5/5 - Excellent
Verified traveller
24 Sep 2019Don't miss this hidden gem.
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