Istanbul: Perfume Making Workshop in Galata Atelier

Summary

Design your signature scent in Istanbul’s Galata atelier while learning perfumery traditions over Turkish tea

You’ll step into a Galata atelier and craft your own perfume with expert guidance—smelling rare oils, sipping Turkish coffee or tea, and blending a scent that’s truly yours. Take home a 50ml bottle with your name on it and memories of laughter and local stories lingering long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the mix of old wood and something floral—maybe jasmine?—as we walked into the atelier in Galata. Our guide, Eda, had this calm energy and greeted us with a smile that felt genuinely happy to see us (not the fake kind). She handed us little cups of strong Turkish coffee, which honestly I needed after climbing those steep streets. The place was smaller than I expected, shelves lined with tiny bottles and handwritten labels everywhere. It smelled like memories you can’t quite place.

Eda started by talking about Istanbul’s perfume history—how scents here are this blend of East and West, which makes sense when you look out at the Bosphorus from the window. She passed around strips dipped in different oils; one was so sharp it made my nose tingle, another reminded me of my grandmother’s rose soap. We laughed when someone tried to pronounce “bergamot” in Turkish (I’m not repeating my attempt). Mixing the ingredients was trickier than I thought—my hands shook a bit pouring drops into the beaker. Eda watched but never hovered, just nudged me if I looked lost.

The best part? Creating my own perfume, layering notes until it felt like “me.” I kept second-guessing myself, but Eda said there’s no wrong answer—that stuck with me. When she sealed my bottle with a little label bearing my name, I felt oddly proud. My clothes still held that scent two days later; every time I caught it on my scarf back at the hotel, it took me right back to that sunlit room and the clink of glass bottles. If you’re looking for something more personal than another fridge magnet from Istanbul…well, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Create your custom perfume in Istanbul

• Join perfume-making workshop
• Learn about Turkish perfumery history
• Design your unique fragrance
• Enjoy Turkish tea or coffee
• Take home your personalized perfume

Top questions

How long does the perfume last?

Your custom perfume has a 25% essence concentration and typically lasts up to two days on skin or clothing.

Is the workshop suitable for beginners?

Yes, anyone can join—the instructor guides you through each step regardless of experience.

What do I get to take home from the workshop?

You’ll receive a 50ml bottle of your personalized fragrance with a custom label as a souvenir.

Are drinks included during the workshop?

Yes, traditional Turkish coffee or tea is served during the session.

Is everything provided or do I need to bring anything?

All materials and ingredients are included; you don’t need to bring anything.

Where is the workshop located in Istanbul?

The atelier is located in Galata, easily accessible by public transport.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to exposure to fragrance ingredients.

Are service animals allowed at the workshop?

Yes, service animals are permitted inside the atelier.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes all necessary materials and over 50 different perfume ingredients to experiment with, expert help from a professional perfumer throughout the process, traditional Turkish coffee or tea served during your session, plus your own 50ml custom perfume bottle labeled just for you—a keepsake straight from Istanbul’s Galata district.