Hanoi: Perfume Making Workshop by Cleopatra Perfume

Imagine walking away from Hanoi with a bottle of your own uniquely crafted perfume—quite the souvenir, right? That’s exactly what this Perfume Making Workshop offers: a chance to get your hands dirty (or rather, fragrant) in a fun, interactive experience. We’ve reviewed this activity thoroughly, and here’s what makes it a standout for travelers keen on a mix of culture, creativity, and scent.

What we love about this workshop is how accessible it is—no prior perfume knowledge needed, just a curiosity to learn and experiment. Plus, the natural ingredients sourced locally give it an authentic Vietnamese twist. Adding to the appeal is the expert guidance from skilled perfumers that makes the process feel professional yet approachable. The only thing to consider? The English of the guides might be a little limited, which could mean missing out on some technical details if you’re a perfume geek. Still, the joy of creating your signature scent makes it worth the slight language barrier. This experience appeals most to those who enjoy hands-on activities, cultural insights, and memorable souvenirs.

Good To Know

Authentic Vietnamese scents: The workshop introduces you to local aromas with cultural stories behind each fragrance.
Personalized perfume: You get to craft a fragrance that reflects your style, and take it home in a beautifully designed bottle.
Expert-led guidance: Skilled perfumers help you understand blending techniques, making the experience feel professional.
Short and sweet: At just two hours, it’s a compact activity that fits easily into your Hanoi itinerary.
Small group size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
Value for money: You leave with a tangible, personalized souvenir, plus new skills and knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Detailed Experience

Starting at Cleopatra Perfume in the heart of Hanoi, the workshop is conveniently located at 25B Ha Hoi Hamlet, just a short stroll from the bustling Old Quarter. The location itself gives you a taste of local life, with tiny streets and vibrant street scenes surrounding you. The meeting point is easy to find, and arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and get ready for your fragrant adventure.

The first part of the workshop is a deeper look into the science and art of perfumery. The guide, often bilingual in English and Vietnamese, shares a curated collection of scents and essential oils. These are thoughtfully selected to showcase Vietnam’s aromatic diversity—think hints of jasmine, lemongrass, and other locally sourced ingredients—offering a sensory preview of what’s to come.

Next, you’ll learn about the history of fragrances and how perfumers blend different notes to create a balanced scent. While some reviews mention the guide’s limited English, most appreciated the enthusiasm and kindness of the instructor, such as Tai, who was described as “very sweet” and “doing a really good job.” This part is more about understanding the basics, which is perfect for beginners or those simply curious about how perfumes are made.

The core of the workshop involves experimenting with fragrance notes. You’ll receive a selection of essential oils and be guided step-by-step to blend your own perfume. Expect to try several combinations, adjusting ratios to find your perfect balance. Reviewers note that this process is both fun and educational: one said, “Creating your own perfume is just so special,” while another mentioned they “learned a lot about the perfume making process.”

While the process is guided, it’s also very hands-on, allowing you to express your creativity. You’ll be encouraged to think about what scents resonate with you—whether floral, woody, or fresh—and craft a fragrance that reflects your personality. The materials are high-quality, and the process is designed to be straightforward enough that even complete novices can produce a satisfying result.

At the end of the session, you’ll bottle your creation in a beautifully crafted perfume bottle—a piece of art that makes for a wonderful keepsake. Some reviews highlighted how exciting it was to take home an actual product of their effort, with one traveler remarking, “We loved the way our perfume turned out, and it’s a lovely souvenir for our trip.”

Throughout the two hours, the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, with small group sizes allowing for personalized tips and interactions. The workshop is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, with the same price applying universally—so kids and infants are welcome as long as they are included in the headcount.

Practical Details & Logistics

The duration of two hours makes this a conveniently short activity, perfect for those wanting a break from sightseeing without sacrificing a meaningful experience. You can reserve your spot with flexibility, paying later if needed, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—great for flexible travel plans.

The price point is reasonable considering you leave with a personalized perfume, plus the knowledge you gained. If you’re a perfume lover or simply enjoy crafting your own souvenirs, this workshop offers excellent value.

The small group setting ensures that everyone gets enough attention from the instructor, creating a more intimate and engaging environment. Although the instructor’s English might be limited, most visitors found the overall experience warm and welcoming, with staff eager to answer questions and assist in the blending process.

Who Would Love This?

This workshop is ideal for creative travelers, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique keepsake from Hanoi. It also suits couples or friends who want a shared, memorable activity—many reviewers mentioned how doing it as a surprise or with loved ones made it extra special.

If you’re fascinated by scents or want a hands-on experience that combines learning with fun, this workshop will definitely tick those boxes. It’s particularly well-suited for those who enjoy small-group activities, as the limited size enhances the overall experience and provides more personalized guidance.

Final Thoughts

Creating your own perfume in Hanoi offers a perfect blend of culture, creativity, and sensory delight. The expert-led guidance ensures you understand the basics of fragrance blending, while the local ingredients bring an authentic Vietnamese touch. The entire process is enjoyable and accessible for all levels, and the chance to take home a personal scent makes this a memorable souvenir.

This workshop’s value lies not only in the fragrance you craft but also in the insights gained into perfumery. It’s a great activity for those who love to learn something new, indulge their senses, or find a unique gift to bring home. With a friendly atmosphere, expert guidance, and beautifully bottled scents, it’s a highlight for anyone wanting an authentic, fragrant experience in Hanoi.

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FAQ

How long is the perfume making workshop?
The workshop lasts 2 hours, making it a short and sweet activity that fits well into a busy Hanoi itinerary.

Where is the meeting point?
It’s at Cleopatra Perfume, 25B Ha Hoi Hamlet, Tran Hung Dao, Hanoi, easy to find and close to the Old Quarter.

Is the activity suitable for all ages?
Yes, the same price applies for all ages, and infants and children can participate if included in the headcount.

Do I need to have prior experience in perfumery?
Not at all. The workshop is designed to be accessible for beginners, with expert guidance helping you through each step.

What languages are spoken during the workshop?
Guides speak both English and Vietnamese, though some reviews note that English may be limited, so patience and enthusiasm are appreciated.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

What should I bring?
Just arrive 15 minutes early, and wear comfortable clothing. All materials for perfumery are provided on-site.

Is there a limit to group size?
Yes, small groups of up to 10 participants ensure a more personalized experience.

What makes this experience worth it?
You leave with a professionally crafted perfume that reflects your personality, plus new insights into the art of fragrance blending—all in a friendly, relaxed setting.

In summary, the Hanoi Perfume Making Workshop by Cleopatra Perfume offers a delightful and authentic way to connect with Vietnamese culture through scents. It’s perfect for those seeking a creative, memorable activity that results in a tangible keepsake—and a new appreciation for the art of perfumery.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby