Amazing price! Book cheap non-stop flights from Riga, Latvia, to Istanbul, Turkey, from only €66 for a round trip with Air Baltic!
Basilica Cistern
Explore the subterranean water reservoir, located 150 metres (490 ft) southwest of the Hagia Sophia. It was built in the 6th century, on the site of a 3rd-century basilica, to store fresh water for the palace and nearby buildings. People used to get water and even catch fish from the holes in their basements. After the conquest of Constantinople by the Ottoman Turks in 1453 the reservoir was used to water the plants in the gardens of Topkapi Palace. In 1963 Basilica Cistern was used for shooting scenes of the James Bond film 'From Russia with Love'.
Known as the Sunken Palace, the underground chamber has the capacity to store 100,000 tons of water. The ceiling is supported by 336 marble columns that appear to have been recycled from the ruins of older buildings. This well-preserved marvel of architecture is the largest of several hundred Byzantine cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul.
Photo: Sergey Dzyuba, Shutterstock
Find out more about in our short guide: Destination Fly4free: Istanbul>>
Travel dates:
April – September 2023
Great availability for Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday departures and returns from April 2 to September 22, returning until September 29
Routes:
Riga – Istanbul – Riga
Baggage allowance:
One cabin bag per passenger
Canceled or delayed flight within the last 3 years?
You may be entitled to be reimbursed up to €600 for flight cancellations. File you claim with AirHelp >>
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Hotel €83 / Double
We advise you stay at Primero Hotel, with excellent reviews and breakfasts included. This hotel is located in central Istanbul and features air conditioned rooms with flat-screen TV and free WiFi.
Car
f you plan to hire a car for your trip, we encourage you to book it on Kayak >>
Delayed or cancelled flight
Did you have a delayed or cancelled flight? Get up to €600 per passenger for flights from the last 3 years. File your claim >>
eSIM
Traveling soon? Get your Holafly eSIM for unlimited internet access in any destination. No more worrying about roaming charges or finding local SIM cards. Enjoy unlimited data and stay connected with ease. Order your Holafly eSIM now »
Travel insurance
Heymondo offers a wide range of travel assistance insurance policies. They combine the best quality, service and price with various levels of coverage, so you’re covered on your weekend getaways and long trips. Buy insurance »
Main photo: Shutterstock
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