Turkish Coffee on Sand Workshop: Gift Set

If you’re visiting Antalya and craving something more than just sightseeing, this Turkish Coffee on Sand Workshop offers a chance to get hands-on with a beloved local tradition. We’ve come across this experience a few times and thought it might be worth sharing what it’s really like for anyone considering it.

What makes this workshop appealing? First, it’s focused on true guest satisfaction — from learning about the history of Turkish coffee to experiencing traditional brewing methods. Second, the personalized touch of making your own coffee on sand, combined with a fortune-telling session, adds a layer of cultural intimacy you won’t find in typical tours.

One possible consideration is that the workshop lasts about an hour, which might feel a bit quick if you’re looking to truly learn about a deep coffee experience. Also, keep in mind that this experience is limited to a small group (max 10 travelers), which is great for intimacy but might not be ideal if you prefer larger gatherings.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers wanting a unique local activity, especially those interested in learning about Turkish coffee traditions firsthand. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate interactive, cultural activities that go beyond simply observing.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: You’ll learn about Turkish coffee’s history and customs with a knowledgeable guide.
• Hands-On Brewing: You get to make your own coffee using traditional methods, including the classic sand technique.
• Personalized Tasting: Enjoy your coffee with a fortune-telling session, adding a fun and mystical element.
• Gift Set: You leave with a special coffee-making set, a Turkish delight, and coffee to remember your trip.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 travelers, making it a cozy and personalized experience.
• Location: Set in the old town area of Antalya, near landmarks like the clock tower and Hadrian gate.

When you arrive at the workshop, located centrally near Antalya’s old town, you’ll immediately notice a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Meeting your host and fellow travelers in the cozy office space makes the experience feel more like visiting friends than a formal tour.

Introduction and History

The experience kicks off with a brief presentation about Turkish coffee’s cultural importance and history. This sets the scene, giving you context about why this tradition has persisted for centuries. Knowing that Turkish coffee is more than a drink—it’s a social ritual—adds depth to the craft you’re about to learn.

Making Your Own Coffee

Next, the hands-on part begins. Your host will have coffee beans, grinders, and cezves (traditional coffee pots) ready for you. The standout feature here is the sand-brewing method, which is an old-time technique that requires precise control over heat and timing. Watching the coffee brew gently on hot sand adds a visual and tactile layer that you won’t experience in a standard coffee shop.

According to reviews, the host Orhan is particularly knowledgeable and engaging, making explanations clear and adding a touch of humor. One guest even called him “very funny, knowledgeable, and entertaining” — which is key to making the session enjoyable rather than just instructional.

You’ll get to choose from five different types of coffee beans based on your taste preferences, allowing for some customization. The process of selecting beans, grinding them, and brewing on sand gives you a real appreciation for the skill involved in traditional Turkish coffee making.

Coffee Tasting & Fortune Telling

Once your coffee is ready, you’ll sit back with a cup and savor the rich flavors, all while engaging in a fortune-telling session based on the coffee grounds. This part is more playful than serious, but the host guides you through the art of reading fortunes in the grounds, giving the experience a fun, cultural twist.

Guests rave about the personal interactions — one reviewer said, “Orahn is very knowledgeable about coffee,” and others appreciated the friendly, conversational style. It’s a relaxed environment where you can ask questions and connect over a shared experience.

Gift and Parting

To top it off, you’ll receive a coffee set gift that includes a Turkish delight and coffee, which makes an excellent souvenir or gift for friends back home. Many guests mention how excited they were to try brewing their own coffee later with the set.

The price of $36.35 per person seems reasonable considering everything included — instruction, tasting, fortune-telling, and a quality gift set. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the expert guidance makes the experience both educational and entertaining.

Compared to more general city tours, this is a niche experience that offers cultural insight and practical skills. If you’re into food, drink, or local customs, it’s a worthwhile add-on to your Antalya visit. Plus, the ability to learn a traditional brewing method like sand coffee is quite rare — it’s not just a demo but a skill you can take home.

The meeting point is conveniently located in the old town area, near public transportation options, which makes it easy to access. After a brief introduction, you’ll sit for a presentation about Turkish coffee’s role in social life, helping you appreciate the cultural significance behind each step.

The hands-on brewing takes about 20 to 30 minutes, during which you’ll learn about selecting beans, grinding, and brewing on sand or stove. The sand method is particularly unique; it requires watching the coffee closely as it heats evenly, resulting in a rich, flavorful brew.

Once your coffee is ready, you’ll have time to savor it and enjoy the fortune-telling session. This part really enhances the cultural connection, turning a simple cup into a moment of shared storytelling.

Throughout, guests emphasize the expertise and friendliness of the guide, making the workshop feel welcoming rather than formal. Many mention that they felt like they were visiting friends rather than participating in a tourist activity.

Final Touch: The Gift Set

When the experience wraps up, you’ll leave with a beautifully curated coffee set, complete with Turkish delight and fresh coffee, allowing you to recreate the magic at home. It’s a thoughtful gesture that adds value beyond the hour spent in the workshop.

This workshop is ideal if you’re curious about Turkish culture, enjoy interactive learning, or want a practical skill to impress friends. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences and personalized attention.

If you’re traveling solo or with a partner who enjoys cultural activities, you’ll find the environment friendly and engaging. It’s also a great option for anyone interested in local traditions related to coffee and social rituals.

However, if you prefer large-group tours or are looking for a high-energy adventure, this might not be the right fit. The experience is mellow and centered around learning and conversation, making it more suited for those who value depth and authenticity over spectacle.

Is this experience suitable for children or families?
While the workshop is primarily designed for adults, it could be enjoyable for older children interested in cultural activities. It’s not specifically marketed toward families, so consider your child’s patience and interest.

How long does the workshop last?
It takes approximately one hour, including the presentation, hands-on brewing, tasting, and gift exchange.

Where is the meeting point?
You’ll meet at Necati Dölen Han in Antalya’s old town, near landmarks like the clock tower and Hadrian gate.

Is the ticket mobile?
Yes, tickets are issued as a mobile pass for easy access and convenience.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the workshop, instruction, tasting, fortune-telling, and a gift set with Turkish delight and coffee.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

How many people participate in each session?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Will I get a chance to make coffee myself?
Absolutely. You’ll be guided step-by-step through brewing your own coffee on sand and stove — quite a hands-on process.

Is it worth the price?
Considering the expert guidance, cultural insight, practical skills, and a thoughtful gift, many find the experience well worth the cost. It’s a unique way to connect with Turkish tradition beyond just sightseeing.

This workshop offers a well-rounded look into Turkish coffee culture with engaging, hands-on participation, making your time in Antalya a little more memorable and authentic. If you’re open to trying something new and want to learn a traditional craft, it’s a gentle, enjoyable experience that many travelers have appreciated.