Hanoi’s Perfume Making Workshop: A Creative Escape and Authentic Experience

If you’re looking for a hands-on activity that combines creativity with a touch of local craftsmanship, the Perfume Making Workshop in Hanoi offers a delightful way to engage your senses. For just $24 per person and lasting about two hours, you can learn the basics of perfume blending right in the heart of Hanoi’s vibrant city center. Guided by friendly instructors, you’ll experiment with essential oils, craft your unique scent, and leave with a personalized bottle—a memorable keepsake from your trip.
What we really like about this experience is that it’s accessible to beginners, with no prior knowledge needed—perfect if you’re curious but not a perfume expert. The intimate studio setup creates a relaxed and stylish atmosphere where you can comfortably explore fragrances. Also, the fact that you get to take home a full bottle of your own creation makes this a true value for money activity.
However, some reviewers have noted that the workshop can be quite basic and not as comprehensive as they hoped, especially if you’re expecting an in-depth perfume lesson. Others have experienced variability in staff professionalism, but overall, the experience offers a fun, creative outlet for travelers interested in scents and local artistry.
This workshop suits adventurous travelers, art lovers, or anyone who wants to carry a personalized souvenir. If you appreciate small-group, hands-on activities that blend local craftsmanship with personal creativity, you’ll likely enjoy this perfume-making session.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points

- Affordable and personalized: For $24, you create your own scent and take home a bottle.
- Beginner-friendly: No prior perfume knowledge required; suitable for all skill levels.
- Creative and relaxing: The studio environment encourages a laid-back, artistic experience.
- Opportunity to learn: Discover the basics of perfume blending and essential oils.
- Variable reviews: Some mention the workshop being quite basic, but many enjoy the creative process.
- Convenient location: Held in Hanoi’s city center with easy access.
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A Closer Look at the Hanoi Perfume Workshop

When we consider experiences like this, it’s important to understand what they offer beyond just the activity itself. This perfume workshop is designed to be accessible, fun, and something you can enjoy regardless of your previous experience. It’s less about becoming a professional perfumer and more about personal expression and enjoying a sensory journey.
The Location and Setting
The workshop takes place in a stylish, cozy studio in Hanoi’s city center. The ambiance is relaxed, modern, and inviting, which helps set the tone for a creative afternoon. The studio’s environment encourages participants to unwind and focus on their fragrance creation without distraction. Since the location details are provided after booking, it’s convenient for travelers based in Hanoi’s main tourist areas or city center hotels.
The Workshop Itself
The core of the experience involves a guided introduction to the art of perfume blending. We loved the way the instructor explained the different types of scents—top, middle, and base notes—and how each contributes to the overall fragrance. This is a real learning moment, even if the depth might be limited for seasoned perfumers.
Participants are then encouraged to experiment with essential oils—a selection of aromas that might include floral, woody, citrus, or spicy notes. Here, the fun begins: you pick and combine scents, guided by the instructor’s advice. Some reviews mentioned that the process could feel a bit rushed or basic, with one traveler noting that the instructor simply asked which oils they liked and let them pour ingredients together without much explanation.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Final Product and Takeaway
At the end, each person receives a 10ml, 30ml, or 50ml bottle of their custom perfume. This is a standout feature—most similar experiences don’t include a full bottle to take home. Many travelers appreciate this, as it turns their fleeting workshop into a lasting memory.
The Experience and Atmosphere
The atmosphere is meant to be creative and relaxing. You’re encouraged to unwind, explore your senses, and enjoy the process. The workshop doesn’t promise to turn you into a perfumer but offers a fun, hands-on way to explore local craftsmanship and create a personal scent you might actually wear.
The Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Great for beginners and those seeking a unique souvenir.
– The price point offers good value, including the full bottle.
– The relaxed, stylish setting makes it easy to enjoy the experience.
– It’s a creative activity that you can do alone, as a couple, or with friends.
Cons:
– Some travelers found the content quite basic or rushed.
– Reports of staff lateness or language barriers may affect the experience.
– The lack of detailed instruction might leave those expecting a comprehensive class slightly disappointed.
Who Will Appreciate This?
If you’re intrigued by fragrances, want a fun hands-on activity, or are looking for a personalized gift, this workshop will suit you. It’s especially ideal for first-timers or those who want a casual, creative experience without a steep learning curve. Travelers who aren’t expecting a deep perfumery course but value authentic, memorable souvenirs will find this charming.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
If you’re in Hanoi and want to try something different, this perfume workshop is a charming way to spend two hours. The cost is reasonable, especially considering you take home a full bottle of your own creation. It’s an experience that’s more about personal expression and fun than professional perfume mastery.
While the experience might feel basic to some, it’s a wonderful opportunity to explore local craftsmanship and add a fragrant touch to your travel memories. Plus, it’s short enough to fit into a busy sightseeing day, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.
If you’re after a creative, hands-on activity that’s different from traditional sightseeing or shopping, this workshop offers a delightful, sensory escape in Hanoi.
FAQ
Is prior experience needed for this perfume workshop?
No, it’s designed for beginners and doesn’t require any previous knowledge of perfumery.
How long does the workshop last?
It lasts approximately two hours, during which you will learn, experiment, and create your perfume.
Can I choose the size of the bottle I take home?
Yes, you can select a 10ml, 30ml, or 50ml bottle of your custom scent as your final product.
What is included in the price?
For $24, the price includes the workshop experience, guidance from an expert, and a full bottle of your perfume to take home.
What should I expect from the instructor?
Reviews indicate that some instructors may not provide in-depth explanations—some simply ask which scents you like and allow you to pour oils yourself. It’s best viewed as a fun, creative activity rather than an expert class.
Is the location easy to find?
Yes, the workshop is held in Hanoi’s city center, with details provided after booking, making it easy to access.
Is the experience suitable for children or groups?
While primarily aimed at adults, it could be fun for older children or teenagers interested in fragrances. Group sizes are typically small, fostering a personal atmosphere.
In the end, this Hanoi perfume workshop offers a playful, sensory way to connect with local artistry. Whether you’re a fragrance enthusiast or simply in search of a unique souvenir, it’s worth considering during your stay in Vietnam’s bustling capital.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Workshops & Classes in Hanoi
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- Hanoi City Motorbike Tour with Banana Island and Local Food
- Small Group Hanoi Street Food Tour with a Real Foodie
- Hanoi: Student Street Food Walking Tour with 4 Tastings
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- Halong Bay 3 Days – 2 Nights with VSpirit Cruise
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