3 Hours Perfume Making Workshop in Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a truly unique way to spend some time in Amsterdam, this perfume-making workshop might just be the experience you didn’t know you needed. Instead of the usual sightseeing tours, you get to dive into the world of fragrance creation, guided by a knowledgeable local in a cozy, home-based setting. It’s a chance to explore your senses, learn a new skill, and leave with a scent that’s all your own.

What really makes this experience stand out are two things: first, the small-group setting ensures you get plenty of personalized attention and support from your instructor; second, the opportunity to create a totally bespoke perfume that’s unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere. Plus, it’s a beautifully intimate activity that can be a memorable highlight of your trip or a meaningful gift for someone special.

However, a key consideration is that this workshop isn’t suitable for children under 15 or for those with mobility issues. It’s also a good idea to book in advance—most people tend to do so about a month ahead—to secure your spot. Overall, if you enjoy arts and crafts, personal growth, or just want to try something different, this experience could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: You’ll craft your own unique perfume with expert support.
• Ideal for special occasions: Perfect for birthdays, bachelor(ette)s, or a memorable gift.
• Learn about fragrances: Gain insights into perfumery basics, the science of scent, and ingredient properties.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to six travelers, ensuring individual attention.
• Relaxing and creative: Enjoy a calming, artsy activity that leaves you with a lasting souvenir.
• Upgradable options: You can choose to upgrade your bottle for travel, adding extra value.

What to Expect from the Perfume Workshop in Amsterdam

This isn’t your typical tourist activity. It’s a thoughtfully curated 3-hour workshop hosted in the instructor’s beautiful home studio, offering a relaxed yet engaging environment. The workshop divides into three parts, each designed to help you understand and experiment with scent in a mindful way.

1. Welcome & Grounding (14:00 – 14:30)

You start by connecting over your favorite smells, sharing memories that scents evoke, which immediately sets a warm, personal tone. This is followed by a grounding meditation—think of it as a gentle way to center yourself before diving into the world of fragrances. This part of the experience helps you become more aware of your senses and sets your intention for the workshop.

2. Introduction & Guided Discovery (14:30 – 15:30)

Next, you’ll learn the basics of perfumery—what makes a scent, how fragrances are composed, and how to train your nose. During this segment, you’ll explore about 20 high-quality ingredients—a sensory treasure hunt where you get to smell, identify, and understand the properties of each component. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the clear and simple explanations, with one saying, “Everything was explained simply and very well.”

3. Creative Blending & Personalization (15:30 – 17:00)

The heart of the workshop is the creative blending session. Here, you’ll get to experiment and craft up to two custom perfumes using the same 20 ingredients. The process is supported by your guide, who offers expert advice and encouragement. The final product is presented in a 3ml spray, which you can upgrade to a 10ml travel bottle for an additional fee. Several reviews highlight how fun and fulfilling this part is, with participants noting they left with a perfume that feels truly personal.

Additional Comforts & Details

Throughout the workshop, tea and water are provided to keep you refreshed, and all necessary materials—pipettes, gloves, a workbook, and sample jars—are included. The small size of the group (maximum 6 travelers) means you’ll get plenty of one-on-one attention, which reviewers rave about, especially the guide’s patience and knowledge.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

When considering the value of this workshop, think about what you’re taking home: not just a bottle of perfume, but a new skill and a memory. One reviewer shared that their gift of this workshop turned into a lifelong passion, with many saying they gained a “trained nose” and a deeper understanding of scents. The cost of roughly $142 per person is quite reasonable for such an immersive, hands-on activity, especially since you go home with a completely unique fragrance.

The reviews are practically glowing: “Amazing experience,” “beautiful atmosphere,” “learned so much,” and “left with a perfume I created myself.” Many mention that their newly crafted scent has become a signature, with compliments and curiosity from friends afterward. The intimacy and quality of the ingredients make it clear that this isn’t just a tourist trap but a genuine craft experience.

Access and Booking

Booking is straightforward, with most customers reserving about a month in advance, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours beforehand. The start point is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This experience is perfect for arts and crafts lovers, those curious about scent, or anyone wanting a relaxing, mindful activity. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a personal touch or a memorable gift idea. While not designed for children under 15 or those with mobility limitations, it’s welcoming to solo travelers, couples, or small groups. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a meaningful souvenir, this workshop fits the bill.

Final Thoughts

The perfume-making workshop in Amsterdam offers a wonderful blend of learning, creativity, and relaxation. The fact that most reviewers give it a perfect 5-star rating speaks volumes about the quality and impact of the experience. It’s a genuine chance to learn about scents, experiment with ingredients, and leave with something uniquely yours.

While it isn’t the cheapest activity in town, the personalized nature and the lasting souvenir make it worth considering. If you’re a fan of arts, crafts, or just want to do something different with your time in Amsterdam, this workshop could be a highlight you’ll talk about long after your trip ends.

Overall, it’s a warm, engaging experience that welcomes all who are looking to craft more than just a perfume—something memorable, personal, and fun.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this workshop suitable for children?
Not really. It’s not recommended for children under 15 years due to the nature of the activity and the materials involved.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded.

What’s included in the price?
All necessary materials, including perfumery ingredients, glass tester pots, spray bottles, pipettes, gloves, a pencil, and a workbook. Tea and water are also provided.

Can I upgrade my perfume to a larger bottle?
Yes, for an additional €35, you can upgrade to a 10ml travel-friendly bottle.

Where does the workshop take place?
It begins at Zuiderlicht College, Rustenburgerstraat 438, in Amsterdam, and ends back at the same meeting point.

How long does the workshop last?
Approximately 3 hours, giving plenty of time for discovery, experimentation, and fun.

Is this experience accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it is not recommended for people with reduced mobility.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 6 travelers, making it a very intimate and supportive environment.

What do people say about this experience?
Reviewers consistently praise the host’s knowledge, the cozy atmosphere, and the fact they go home with a personalized perfume that’s unlike anything else.

Is there anything I should know before booking?
Booking in advance is recommended, and be aware of the age restrictions and mobility considerations. It’s also helpful to be open-minded about the creative process.

If you’re seeking a memorable, hands-on activity that combines artistry, relaxation, and a personal touch, this perfume-making workshop in Amsterdam might be just the thing. It balances fun with learning, leaving you with a unique scent—and a story to tell.