All transportation options to reach Istanbul's cisterns
The three major cisterns (Basilica, Theodosius, and Philoxenos) are all located in the historic Sultanahmet district, within walking distance of each other. This area is the heart of old Istanbul and easily accessible by public transportation.
Yerebatan Caddesi, Sultanahmet
Next to Hagia Sophia
Piyer Loti Caddesi, Sultanahmet
5 min walk from Basilica
Binbirdirek Mahallesi, Sultanahmet
10 min walk from others
Most convenient option
Take the T1 tram line and get off at Sultanahmet station. The Basilica Cistern is just 2 minutes walk from the station.
Via Vezneciler Station
Take M2 line to Vezneciler station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk (800m) downhill to Sultanahmet Square and the cisterns.
Exit Vezneciler station, walk down Ordu Caddesi towards Beyazıt, then continue to Sultanahmet via Divanyolu Street.
Multiple lines available
Door-to-door service
💡 Tip: From Taksim to Sultanahmet costs approximately 150-200 TL. Always insist on using the meter or agree on price before starting.
The Istanbulkart is a rechargeable public transport card that works on all metro, tram, bus, and ferry services. It's essential for getting around Istanbul efficiently.
Yerebatan Caddesi - Right across from Hagia Sophia
👣 5-minute walk (350m)
Walk south on Yerebatan Caddesi, turn left on Piyer Loti Caddesi
Piyer Loti Caddesi - Near the tram line
👣 10-minute walk (700m)
Continue on Piyer Loti Caddesi, turn right on İmran Öktem Street
Binbirdirek Mahallesi - In a quieter area
Visiting all three cisterns on foot takes approximately 15-20 minutes of total walking time between locations. Add 30-60 minutes per cistern for the visit itself.
Not recommended. Sultanahmet is in the historic peninsula with narrow streets, heavy traffic, and limited parking. Public transportation is much more convenient.
If you must drive, arrive very early (before 8 AM) or late afternoon to find parking.
🚇 Metro + Tram: 25 minutes
M2 to Yenikapı → T1 to Sultanahmet
🚕 Taxi: 15-20 min
150-200 TL
🚊 Tram: 15 minutes
Walk to Karaköy → T1 to Sultanahmet
🚶 Walk: 30 minutes
Cross Galata Bridge
🚊 Tram: 5 minutes
Walk to Beyazıt → T1 to Sultanahmet
🚶 Walk: 15 minutes
Via Divanyolu Street
🚇 Metro: 90 minutes
M11 → M2 → T1 (multiple transfers)
🚕 Taxi: 45-60 min
500-700 TL
🚇 Metro: 60 minutes
M4 to Yenikapı → T1 to Sultanahmet
🚕 Taxi: 40-50 min
400-600 TL
🚶 Walk: 10 minutes
Via Sultanahmet Square
🚊 Tram: 3 minutes
One stop on T1
Now that you know how to get there, check out our visitor tips for the best experience