Antalya Old Town: Traditional Mosaic Lamp or Candle Workshop

Creating a personalized mosaic lamp or candle holder in Antalya’s charming Old Town offers more than just a craft session; it’s an opportunity to connect with Turkish culture through hands-on artistry. This experience, rated a perfect 5 out of 5 by recent visitors, combines cultural insight, creativity, and local hospitality—all within a lively historic setting.

What makes this workshop special? First, you’ll learn about the history of mosaic art in Turkey from knowledgeable guides who deliver stories in both English and Turkish. Second, you get to design your own lamp or candle holder, choosing from a vibrant selection of glass colors and figures, which makes for a truly unique souvenir. Third, the warm, friendly atmosphere paired with Turkish tea, snacks, and relaxing music turns what could be a simple craft into a memorable cultural escape.

However, a potential consideration is the physical aspect of the workshop—it involves standing and working with small materials, which might not be suitable for guests with mobility challenges. Also, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to plan your own transportation within the Old Town area.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy creative activities, cultural stories, and authentic local crafts. It’s especially suited for those looking for a relaxing, sociable way to spend a couple of hours in Antalya’s historic heart.

Good To Know

• Cultural Learning: Guides provide insights into Turkish mosaic art and history.
• Hands-On Creativity: You design and assemble your own mosaic lamp or candle holder.
• Quality Materials: Handcrafted metal parts and transparent glass beads create vibrant, shining lamps.
• All-Inclusive: Workshop fee covers all materials, unlimited Turkish tea, water, snacks, and photo opportunities.
• Location: Just a 3-minute walk from Hadrian’s Gate, right in the old town.
• Small Group: Personalized experience with friendly, local guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Location and Accessibility
Situated in the heart of Antalya’s Old Town (Kaleiçi), the workshop is ideally placed for visitors exploring the historic sights. Look for the landmarks “Serra Pharmacy” and “Katlm Evim” — the entrance is on the first floor near these shops, at Necati Dolen Han No:4. It’s a short walk from the iconic Hadrian’s Gate and the Clock Tower, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

How to Find It
Guests often mention the helpful communication from the team beforehand. One reviewer noted, “We were sent a video with instructions on how to find the workshop,” which is a thoughtful touch that eases arrival, especially for those unfamiliar with the area.

The Workshop Setup
Once inside, you’re greeted with Turkish tea, water, and Turkish delights—set the scene for a friendly, relaxed environment. The workshop space showcases all the necessary tools, glass beads, and design options. The guides, who are 100% locals, are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help, making sure everyone feels comfortable and supported regardless of skill level.

The Creative Process
The core activity lasts between 1 and 2 hours, during which you will learn about mosaic techniques unique to Turkey. The guides explain that their lamps feature handmade metal parts and transparent glass beads, which allow the light to shine through beautifully. As one reviewer mentioned, “Our beads are mostly transparent, so your lamps will shine great,” emphasizing the quality of materials used.

Design and Personalization
Here’s where the fun begins: you get to pick your figures, colors, and design layout. Whether you prefer traditional motifs or modern abstractions, the team encourages creativity. Many reviewers appreciated the freedom to craft exactly what they envisioned. For example, one guest shared, “There are so many possibilities to get creative with colors and shapes,” which results in a truly personalized keepsake.

Learning and Cultural Insights
Guides also share snippets about the history of mosaic art in Turkey, enriching the craft with cultural context. Guests noted that explanations were clear and engaging, and that the guides answered questions with confidence. This approach elevates the experience from a simple workshop to a cultural exchange.

Photo and Video Opportunities
Along With creating your masterpiece, you’ll have a dedicated space to take photos and videos of your lamp—great for sharing your handiwork with friends or capturing memories. After finishing, your lamp is packaged carefully in a nylon and cardboard bag, ready to travel home safely.

Additional Perks
Unlimited Turkish tea, water, and snacks are included, making the experience even more enjoyable. Many reviews highlight the friendly atmosphere: “Orhan and the team were so friendly and helpful,” and “The staff were so sweet and kind,” which really adds to the warmth of the activity.

Pricing and Value
While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews consistently mention it’s “great value” for a 2-hour, all-inclusive activity. Considering you get to take home your handcrafted lamp, the experience feels like a worthwhile investment in both souvenir and cultural enrichment.

Group Size and Atmosphere
The workshop caters well to small groups, ensuring plenty of personal attention and room for individual creativity. It’s suitable for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a relaxing, craft-oriented experience.

Why This Experience Works

This workshop shines because of the blend of cultural storytelling, hands-on creativity, and friendly local guides. Guests consistently praise the informative guides, describing them as helpful, patient, and eager to share their knowledge. The ability to make your own mosaic lamp or candle holder means you leave with a unique, handcrafted item that reflects your personal style.

The high-quality materials and the fact that the lamps are handcrafted with transparent, shining beads mean your finished piece will look stunning once lit. Plus, the setting in Antalya’s Old Town offers a lovely backdrop, making it a culturally immersive activity, not just a craft class.

The social aspect is also a highlight. Many reviewers mention meeting people from different backgrounds, sharing stories over Turkish tea, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes this workshop feel like a small local gathering rather than a commercial activity.

Final Thoughts

This mosaic lamp and candle workshop in Antalya’s Old Town offers much more than just a creative outlet — it’s a chance to explore Turkish artistry in a lively, welcoming environment. The combination of cultural stories, expert guidance, and the freedom to design your own piece makes it a standout activity, especially for those seeking a meaningful souvenir or a relaxing break from sightseeing.

The value is clear, especially considering all materials, drinks, and photos are included. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who enjoy arts and crafts, cultural learning, or simply want a memorable activity that’s different from the usual tours.

If you’re staying close to Kaleiçi and want a genuinely authentic, fun, and enriching experience, this workshop is a solid pick. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike—just prepare to get a little creative and have fun with Turkish mosaic art.

FAQ

How long does the workshop last?
Between 1 and 2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend on your design.

Where is the workshop located?
In the heart of Antalya’s Old Town, near landmarks like Hadrian’s Gate and the Clock Tower. The entrance is on the first floor of Necati Dolen Han No:4.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not part of this experience. You’ll need to make your way to the workshop location independently.

What is included in the price?
All materials for your lamp or candle holder, unlimited water, Turkish tea, snacks, and packaging to take your creation home.

Can I take photos or videos?
Yes, there’s a dedicated photography area where you can capture your finished product.

Are there group size restrictions?
The experience is offered in small groups, which ensures personalized attention and a friendly environment.

Is this suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for those without mobility impairments, as the workshop involves standing and working with small materials. It might not be ideal for wheelchair users or those with visual impairments.

What age groups is this activity suitable for?
Guests of all ages have enjoyed it, from children to seniors, making it a flexible family-friendly activity.

Do guides speak English?
Yes, guides are bilingual in English and Turkish, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

To sum it up, this Antalya mosaic lamp workshop offers a delightful mix of cultural storytelling, creative expression, and authentic craftsmanship. It’s a superb way to spend a couple of hours in the Old Town, leaving with a bespoke souvenir and a story to tell. Whether you’re a craft lover, culture enthusiast, or simply after a relaxing break, it’s an experience that adds a special touch to your Antalya trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: