Perfume Masterclass in Florence: Make your Own Personal Fragrance

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into crafting a signature perfume or want a unique souvenir from Florence, this Perfume Masterclass offers an engaging and fragrant journey. Set in a historic Renaissance palace, this tour is not just about creating a scent — it’s a deep dive into Florence’s centuries-old perfume craftsmanship, combined with hands-on creativity and a touch of elegance.

What we love about this experience is its intimate setting, the knowledge of the master perfumer, and the chance to leave with a perfume truly tailored to your preferences. Plus, the opportunity to learn about Florence’s perfume history adds a fascinating layer to the activity. The only potential hiccup? The wait time of 30 days before you can actually use your perfume might test your patience, especially if you’re eager to wear your creation.

This experience is perfect for fragrance lovers, curious travelers, or anyone seeking a creative, relaxing break from sightseeing. If you relish personal, authentic activities that combine learning with fun, then this masterclass will suit you well.

Key Points

• Intimate, small-group experience ensures personalized attention.
• Learn the art of perfumery with a master perfumer in a historic setting.
• Create a bespoke fragrance and take home a 30ml bottle.
• Receive a certificate signed by the perfumer, adding a special touch.
• Enjoy a cozy coffee break included in the experience.
• Ideal for fragrance enthusiasts and those looking for a unique souvenir.

An Authentic Perfume Experience in Florence

Stepping into the workshop of a master perfumer in a building dating back to the 1700s, you’re immediately transported to a world of glassware, amber bottles, and rare scents. This isn’t a sterile classroom — it’s a lively artisan space that echoes Florence’s Renaissance flair. The guide introduces you to the history of perfumery in Florence and the importance the city played historically in the craft.

The tour’s small size, capped at 15 participants, allows for plenty of interaction. You’ll get to listen to detailed explanations about ingredient selection, blending techniques, and the story behind Florence’s perfume heritage. This isn’t just a “make your own soap” class; it’s a real, behind-the-scenes look at how artisanal perfumes are born.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The experience begins at the “Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone,” a charming shop with a long tradition in herbal and scent crafts. From the start, you’re welcomed warmly, often by guides who are both knowledgeable and personable — as one reviewer mentions, the host was “very welcoming and knowledgeable about perfume.”

You’ll receive an introduction to Florence’s perfume history, which offers context that elevates your understanding of the craft. Next, you choose from a kit of around 30 essences, designed to mimic top, middle, and base notes. Our reviewers found this part particularly enjoyable — one noted how the process of selecting scents based on notes was “fun and interesting,” while another appreciated the variety of scents available, which allowed for real creativity.

The actual blending is guided step-by-step by the perfumer, ensuring that even beginners feel confident. The result? A personalized 30ml bottle of fragrance that you’ve helped craft, which, though requiring 30 days to fully mature, is yours to enjoy later. The process feels rewarding rather than rushed, with many reviewers saying how much fun they had just sitting and sniffing different combinations.

What Makes This Tour Special?

One aspect that stands out is the certification signed by the perfumer — a reminder that this isn’t just a souvenir, but a tangible piece of Florence’s artisanal tradition. This personal touch elevates the experience, as many reviewers mention how meaningful it is to leave with a custom perfume and a certificate of completion.

The included coffee or tea break offers a relaxing pause — a chance to chat with fellow perfume enthusiasts or just enjoy some local hospitality. This small gesture adds to the overall cozy, boutique feel of the class.

Authenticity and Expertise

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides and perfumers bring a wealth of knowledge and warmth. Many mention how the staff are “very knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and eager to answer questions. One review praised the instructor Ellen for sharing her skills and explaining the exotic ingredients used, making the class both educational and fun.

The small group size makes it easy to ask questions, get personalized feedback, and feel more involved. Many guests appreciated the attention they received, which is especially valuable in a craft that requires a delicate touch.

The Value for Money

At approximately $81.40 per person, this class offers a lot of value. You’re not only getting a unique hands-on activity but also a meaningful souvenir, a certificate, and an insight into Florence’s renowned perfume history. Compared to other artisan workshops, the price is quite reasonable given the personalized experience.

Plus, reviews consistently mention how the size of the final bottle exceeds their expectations, and many are especially pleased to leave with a sizeable 30ml perfume. The wait of 30 days for the perfume to mature might seem long, but it’s part of the craft — and many find the anticipation part of the fun.

The Detailed Itinerary

Meeting and Introduction

Your experience begins at the Via Ghibellina meeting point, a convenient location near public transportation. From there, you’re led into the workshop, which oozes historic charm. The guides set the scene with stories about Florence’s long-standing reputation in perfumery, making the entire process feel like a continuation of centuries of tradition.

Tour of the Artisanal Laboratory

Once inside, you’ll see glassware, ampules, and rare essences that look more like scientific instruments than perfume ingredients. This setting allows you to understand how alchemists and apothecaries once operated in Florence, blending science with art.

Guests often comment on the visual appeal of the shop, which feels like a living museum. The atmosphere, filled with the scents of herbs, flowers, and woods, is both calming and inspiring.

Learning the Craft

The instructor explains how top, middle, and base notes work together, providing much-needed guidance on how to choose scents that harmonize. Many reviewers appreciated the detailed explanations, noting that the instructor’s expertise made them feel confident in their choices.

You then select your scents, blending the essences to match your personality or mood. One guest shared how they enjoyed “letting their nose decide,” which is exactly what makes this activity so engaging. You’re encouraged to experiment, and the instructor offers suggestions for interesting combinations if you’re feeling unsure.

Creating and Bottling Your Fragrance

When your blend is complete, it’s bottled into your custom 30ml container. This part of the process is often experienced as fun and satisfying — a real sense of achievement. The final product is a personalized scent that you helped create, and many guests mention how they loved the fact that it’s unique to them.

Wrapping Up

After the creation, you receive a certificate signed by the perfumer — a lovely keepsake. The class concludes with a brief Q&A, and you’re free to browse the store’s other products or relax during the complimentary coffee or tea break.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This masterclass is best suited for fragrance enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting a hands-on activity, and anyone searching for an authentic, artistic souvenir from Florence. It’s also a great choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to learn something new and creative. If you’re interested in the history of Florence’s perfume trade, you’ll find the guided insights especially rewarding.

It’s less ideal for those seeking instant gratification — the perfume requires 30 days to mature — but the anticipation adds a special layer to the experience. If you love personalized, artisan activities and enjoy sensory arts, this class could be a highlight of your trip.

The Sum Up

This Florence perfume masterclass offers more than just a creative activity — it’s an immersive journey into the city’s age-old craft. With expert guidance, a historic setting, and a personalized fragrance at the end, it combines education, fun, and a tangible souvenir all in one. The small-group format ensures plenty of individual attention, making it a memorable, intimate experience.

The price reflects the quality and authenticity of the activity, and most reviews highlight the excellent value, especially considering you leave with a sizeable, handcrafted perfume and a certificate. Whether you’re a perfume lover or just looking for a special activity off the beaten path, this class is a delightful way to connect with Florence’s artisanal soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this activity suitable for children?
Most travelers above 12 years old can participate, provided they meet vaccination or testing requirements. Children under 12 aren’t mentioned as participants, so it’s best to check with the supplier if unsure.

Will I receive my perfume immediately?
No, the perfume needs 30 days to mature before it can be used. You will leave with a bottle of your creation, but it’s not ready for wear right away.

Are transportation and hotel pickups included?
No, the tour starts at the designated meeting point in Florence. You’re responsible for your own transportation to and from the activity.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of participants is 15, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is this activity accessible for people with mobility issues?
While not explicitly stated, the activity takes place in a historic workshop. It’s best to inquire directly if accessibility is a concern.

Does the experience include a visit to any other stores?
Yes, it begins with a visit to the “Antica Spezieria Erboristeria San Simone” store and laboratory.

What is the price of this tour?
It costs approximately $81.40 per person, which offers good value considering the personalized activity, expert guidance, and the gift of a custom perfume.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, bookings are fully cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, a complimentary coffee, tea, or water is included during the break.

Is there a dress code or anything specific I should wear?
No special attire is necessary; just come comfortable and ready to sniff, blend, and create!