Istanbul: Ottoman Dress-Up & Rooftop Photo Shoot

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into the shoes of a Sultan, Hürrem Sultan, or even a Medusa during your trip to Istanbul, this experience might just be your perfect souvenir. For around €7, you get to don authentic Ottoman-era costumes, strike a pose on a scenic rooftop overlooking the Hagia Sophia, and have your photos digitally delivered — all in a single, memorable session.

What really sets this apart is the chance to become part of Istanbul’s legendary history—without long museum lines or guided tours. Plus, the professional photography, combined with both real-view and green screen backdrops, means you’ll walk away with creative, high-quality images that capture your time in Turkey’s vibrant capital.

We love the unique blend of history and fun, especially the stunning views of Hagia Sophia from the rooftop, and the option to be digitally placed into dramatic, Ottoman-themed scenes. Another highlight is the costume selection, which offers a variety of characters from sultans to Byzantine empresses, ensuring everyone can find a role to suit their personality.

A noteworthy consideration is that the €7 fee covers costume, professional photos, and digital delivery, but nothing physical is included — so if you want printed copies or albums, those come at extra cost. And, since it’s a one-day experience, timing and arriving on schedule are key to making the most of it.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a bit of playful creativity, are curious about Ottoman culture, or want a fun, family-friendly activity that produces memorable keepsakes. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a group of friends, it offers a lighthearted way to connect with Istanbul’s past.

Key Points

• Authentic costumes: Choose from a range of Ottoman-era characters for a truly immersive dress-up experience.
• Scenic rooftop: Enjoy panoramic views of Hagia Sophia, creating a stunning backdrop for your photos.
• Digital photos: High-resolution images delivered straight to your device, perfect for sharing.
• Green screen options: Get creative by placing yourself in digitally crafted Ottoman scenes and dramatic settings.
• Location: Next to the Basilica Cistern, in a setting rich with history and atmosphere.
• Affordable: All inclusive for just €7 — no hidden fees, covers costume, photos, and digital delivery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Location and Setting

The photoshoot takes place at a historic site next to the Basilica Cistern, a favorite among visitors for its atmospheric ambiance and proximity to Istanbul’s iconic attractions. This spot’s charm lies not just in its history but also in its authentic vibe, making it a fitting backdrop for a royal Ottoman theme.

The rooftop with the Hagia Sophia in the background is surprisingly accessible, offering a sweeping view that instantly transports you to the time of sultans and empire builders. The setting is both picturesque and practical, allowing professional photographers to capture your images against a stunning skyline.

Costume Choices and Staff Assistance

On arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who assist with dressing and help you select your character — options include Sultan, Hürrem, Ottoman Warrior, Byzantine Empress, Mimar Sinan, or even Medusa for a mythological twist. This variety ensures that everyone, regardless of age or style, can find a character that resonates with them.

The costumes are authentic-looking, designed to evoke the grandeur of Ottoman attire, and are easy to wear with guidance from staff. We appreciated the staff’s patience and enthusiasm, which made dressing up feel effortless and fun.

The Photo Sessions

The session includes professional guidance on posing, making sure your photos look natural and lively. The photographers are skilled at capturing both the majestic and playful sides of each character.

There are two primary types of shots:

• On the rooftop with the Hagia Sophia view in the background — an ideal setting for that classic Istanbul shot.
• In front of the green screen, where you can be placed into digitally created scenes like Ottoman palaces, dramatic battlefields, or mythological landscapes.

These options allow for a wide range of creative expressions, whether you want a regal portrait or something more whimsical.

The Digital Photos and Delivery

Once your shoot wraps up, you’ll receive high-resolution digital photos directly to your device. Many reviews highlight how crisp and beautifully edited the images are — perfect for sharing on social media or printing for souvenirs.

One traveler noted, “The photos are so well done; I was amazed at how professional they looked.” You can expect a mix of candid and posed shots, all polished and ready to memorialize your Istanbul adventure.

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Price and Value

The €7 price tag is astonishingly low considering it includes costume rental, a professional photo shoot, and digital images. This makes it a budget-friendly way to add a personal, cultural touch to your trip.

However, keep in mind that physical prints or albums are not included, so if you want tangible souvenirs, you’ll need to purchase those separately at the site.

This activity is ideal for families with kids, couples, or groups of friends looking for a lighthearted cultural activity. It’s especially perfect for those who enjoy creative photo opportunities and want something memorable beyond a typical sightseeing tour.

Travelers with a sense of humor or an interest in Ottoman history will find the costume options and setting particularly engaging. Even history buffs can appreciate the chance to dress as a sultana or warrior and get a feel for the grandeur of Istanbul’s past in a fun, relaxed environment.

While the cost seems modest, the real value is in the memories and photos you take home. These images serve as tangible reminders of your trip, capturing the playful side of your exploration of Istanbul.

The combination of authentic costumes, stunning views, and professional photography creates a travel keepsake that can be cherished for years. Especially for those who love sharing photos or want a unique story to tell, this experience adds a personal touch that other tours might not provide.

If you’re after a fun, engaging activity that blends culture, history, and creativity, the Ottoman Dress-Up & Rooftop Photo Shoot offers a surprisingly affordable way to do so. The stunning views of Hagia Sophia, combined with the chance to wear a regal costume and be digitally transported into Ottoman scenes, make this a standout activity for many travelers.

It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or groups wanting to add a playful, memorable element to their Istanbul trip. The professional photos, delivered immediately, turn your playful dress-up into a cherished souvenir — a story you can share long after you leave Turkey.

Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes, it’s fun and educational for all ages. Kids can enjoy dressing up and striking poses, making it a great family activity.

How long does the session last?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but given the scope of costume dressing and photos, it’s typically a short, enjoyable session. Check availability for specific start times.

Are the costumes comfortable?
Staff assist with dressing, and the costumes are designed to be worn comfortably for the duration of the shoot. Wear comfortable clothing underneath for ease.

Can I choose which character to dress as?
Yes, there’s a selection of characters including Sultans, Hürrem, warriors, and mythological figures like Medusa.

Is the digital photo delivery instant?
Photos are sent directly to your device after the session, so you’ll have access shortly afterward.

Are the photos high resolution?
Yes, the images are professionally edited and high-resolution, suitable for printing or online sharing.

What if I want physical copies of my photos?
Physical prints or albums are not included in the €7 price but are available for purchase on-site.

Is there an option to upgrade costumes or accessories?
Not beyond the standard costumes included; additional upgrades or accessories are not specified.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity can accommodate wheelchair users.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Ottoman Dress-Up & Rooftop Photo Shoot offers a charming, affordable way to add a touch of royalty and history to your Istanbul visit. It’s perfect for those seeking a fun, memorable souvenir and a chance to feel like a sultan or empress for a little while. The panoramic views of Hagia Sophia, combined with the creative green screen options, ensure you’ll come away with beautiful, unique photos that tell a story of your time in Turkey.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with loved ones, or in a group, this experience brings a burst of fun and creativity into your journey. If you’re after a light-hearted cultural activity that produces instant, shareable memories, this is an excellent addition to your Istanbul itinerary.

This experience balances affordability with a memorable cultural twist, making it a worthwhile addition for anyone looking to dress up, take great photos, and have fun in Istanbul.

You can check availability for your dates here: