3 Hours Perfume Making Workshop in Amsterdam

Think you’ve experienced everything Amsterdam has to offer? Think again. This perfume-making workshop promises a creative twist on your trip, giving you the chance to craft a scent that’s uniquely yours. While most visitors focus on canals and museums, this experience pulls you into the fascinating world of fragrances, right in a cozy home studio.

We love the way this workshop combines learning and hands-on creativity, offering a genuinely personal souvenir that’s more meaningful than a typical tourist trinket. The small-group setting ensures plenty of individual attention, making it ideal for those interested in arts, crafts, or simply a relaxing break from sightseeing. One thing to keep in mind: the price point of around $142 might seem steep at first glance, but considering the quality ingredients, expert guidance, and lasting memories, it offers notable value. Perfect for birthday celebrations, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or anyone curious about scent.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Create a unique perfume that reflects your style and personality.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a passionate local tutor, making the process approachable.
• Creative & Relaxing: Combines mindful grounding with sensory exploration.
• Souvenir & Skill: Leave with a custom scent and new knowledge about perfumery.
• Small Group: Ensures individualized help and a cozy atmosphere.
• Accessible & Inclusive: Open to most travelers, but not suitable for children under 15 or those with mobility issues.

What to Expect from the Perfume Workshop

This 3-hour session is hosted in a beautiful home studio, offering a relaxed environment that immediately puts you at ease. From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this isn’t your typical tourist activity — it’s a carefully curated experience that balances education, creativity, and mindfulness.

The Itinerary in Detail

Part 1: Welcome & Grounding (14:00-14:30)
Your journey begins with a warm welcome, where you’ll connect with fellow participants over scents that evoke special memories. This isn’t just about sniffing; it’s about setting intentions for the session. A grounding meditation helps you tune into your senses and create a calm, playful atmosphere. Reviewers often mention how this part transforms what could be a technical workshop into a relaxing, almost meditative experience. One participant noted, “Arielle’s workshop was a refreshing, fun activity — I not only learned about scents but left feeling like a perfume enthusiast.”

Part 2: Introduction & Guided Discovery (14:30-15:30)
This is where the real educational magic happens. Arielle, the host, takes you through the science of perfumery, explaining how our sense of smell works and how to recognize different notes. You’ll explore 20 high-quality ingredients, learning how they blend and interact. Multiple reviews highlight how approachable Arielle makes the complex world of scent — “Everything was explained simply and very well,” shared one guest. This foundational knowledge enriches the experience and makes your subsequent experiments more meaningful.

Part 3: Creative Blending (15:30-17:00)
Now comes the fun part. With guidance, you’ll experiment with up to 20 ingredients, creating up to two custom blends. The pace is relaxed, with Arielle and her assistant on hand to help refine your ideas. Many reviewers mention how surprising and satisfying it is to craft a perfume that truly reflects themselves. One comment: “I left with a perfume that feels entirely my own — the compliments haven’t stopped.” You’ll finish with a 3ml spray of your creation, with the option to upgrade to a larger 10ml bottle for an extra fee.

What’s Included?

All necessary materials are provided — from pipettes to glass spray bottles, along with a handy linen pouch to keep your perfume safe. The workshop also includes tea and water, helping you stay refreshed while you work your scent magic. The intimate setting and exclusive ingredients make you feel like a professional perfumer for a few hours.

The Environment & Group Dynamics

This activity is capped at six travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized experience. Guests consistently mention how Arielle’s warm personality and clear explanations make everyone feel comfortable, regardless of their prior knowledge. The workshop’s home-based location, near public transportation, makes it easy to access without stressing about transfers.

The setting isn’t just pretty; it’s designed for focus and fun. One reviewer loved how the workshop felt “cozy and truly special,” turning an ordinary Saturday into a meaningful exploration of self and scent. Many mention feeling relaxed and even inspired to look at ingredients and products differently afterward.

Value for Money

At approximately $142, this experience might seem a bit pricey, but when you consider what you get — personalized guidance, high-quality ingredients, and a handcrafted perfume — it’s a solid investment. Participants leave not only with a unique fragrance but also with a new skill that can be enjoyed long after the workshop ends. One reviewer pointed out, “I now wear a scent that feels entirely my own, and the compliments haven’t stopped.”

Plus, the option to upgrade to a 10ml bottle for $35 extends the value, providing a portable version of your creation. Remember, this isn’t just a souvenir; it’s a craft that can be refined and expanded upon in your own time.

Authentic Insights from Past Participants

Many reviewers highlight Arielle’s knowledgeable and passionate approach, describing her as a warm, patient guide. “Her energy was the perfect mix of instruction and encouragement,” says one guest, while others appreciated her ability to simplify complex concepts. Several note how the workshop fosters not just learning but also connection, whether with fellow participants or with oneself.

People also love how the experience encourages mindfulness. As one guest mentioned, “It was very grounding and relaxing while training our brain to identify different scents.” The thoughtful pace and meditative components make it more than just a craft activity — it becomes a moment of self-discovery.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• The workshop is not recommended for children under 15 or those with mobility issues, as it takes place in a private home-based studio.
• Book at least a month in advance — most bookings are made about 31 days ahead.
• Arrive prepared to be open-minded and ready to experiment; there’s no right or wrong flavor.
• The session starts at 2:00 pm; plan to arrive a bit early to settle in.
• If you wish to create a larger, travel-friendly bottle, budget an extra $35.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This perfume-making workshop is perfect for travelers seeking a creative, mindful, and personalized activity that leaves them with a tangible souvenir. It’s suited for solo explorers, couples, or groups celebrating special occasions like birthdays or bridal parties. If you’re curious about scents, enjoy arts and crafts, or want a relaxing way to connect with your senses, this experience offers substantial value and genuine fun.

While it might be on the higher side price-wise, the combination of expert guidance, high-quality ingredients, and the enchantment of creating your own perfume makes it well worth it. It’s more than just a perfume class — it’s a memorable, sensory journey that can deepen your appreciation for fragrance and self-expression.

FAQs

Is this workshop suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Arielle explains everything simply and makes perfumery accessible to all, regardless of experience.

How long does the workshop last?
It runs for about 3 hours, including grounding, learning, and creating your perfume.

Can I create more than two blends?
The standard experience allows for up to two blends, but you can experiment with different ingredients during the session.

What do I take home?
You’ll leave with a 3ml spray of your bespoke perfume, with the option to upgrade to a 10ml bottle for an additional fee.

Are dietary restrictions or allergies a concern?
The workshop focuses on perfumery ingredients. While no specific dietary info is provided, the experience mainly involves scent testing and blending.

Is the location easy to reach?
Yes, the workshop begins at Zuiderlicht College on Rustenburgerstraat, near public transport options.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is fine. The activity involves handling fragrance ingredients, so avoid overly delicate fabrics.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the session.

Is there an age limit for participants?
Yes, it is not recommended for children under 15 years old.

Overall, this Amsterdam perfume workshop offers a delightful mix of education, creativity, and relaxation. It’s an excellent pick for anyone wanting a meaningful, hands-on activity to round off their visit, leaving with a new skill and a scent that’s completely their own.