Top Istanbul Art & Culture Classes

Unleash your inner artist with a Turkish mosaic lamp small-group workshop in Istanbul. This is a hands-on cultural experience that the whole family can enjoy. No experience is needed as skilled instructors are on hand at all times to talk you through creating a traditional design. The immersive experience also includes insider suggestions on what to do, see, and eat with the rest of your time in Istanbul.

Anyone can pick up an Ottoman-style mosaic lamp—decorated with glass beads and stones in an array of colors—at a gift shop in Istanbul, but there’s nothing like crafting your own artistic creation to give you instant bragging rights. Take home a piece of Turkish heritage during this instructor-led lamp-making workshop. Cookies and a hot drink (coffee or tea) included for a cozy, small-group experience.

It can be hard to find the perfect souvenir in Istanbul. But scent is the most personal of senses and crafting your own signature scent will immortalize your memories forever. This small-group workshop, led by a professional perfumer, lets you blend your choice of more than 50 ingredients to create a fragrance that’s uniquely you. Leave with a 1.7-ounce (50-milliliter) bottle of perfume with your very own hand-crafted label.

Discover the ancient art of distillation in an immersive, hands-on workshop set within the walls of Little Hagia Sophia—a hidden cultural sanctuary in Istanbul. Choose between lavender or bay leaves (seasonally, rose may be available) and experience the full process of transforming aromatic plants into pure hydrosol using traditional copper stills. Guided by an expert host, you’ll: – Learn the history and modern uses of plant distillation – Participate in every step of the process, from preparation to bottling – Smell, touch, and see the transformation of raw herbs into natural essence – Take home a bottle of your freshly made hydrosol This two-hour experience is ideal for curious minds, nature lovers, and those interested in wellness rituals. No prior experience is needed—just bring your senses and curiosity! Enjoy tea, conversation, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in one of the city’s most historic locations.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of ebru, the ancient Turkish art of paper marbling, in a stylish atelier just steps from Galata Tower. Guided by an experienced instructor, learn how to manipulate vibrant colors on water, creating a unique pattern that reflects the fluidity of the medium. Each creation is truly one-of-a-kind, ensuring your artwork is as special as your experience. Enjoy unlimited water and traditional Turkish delight as you work, adding a touch of local hospitality to your artistic endeavor. After creating your masterpiece, it is carefully dried and packaged in a protective tube, making it a perfect keepsake from your time in Istanbul.

In our workshop you learn and practice turkish art of paper marbling (Ebru), İznik tile art with a private instructor Emine Solak who has been working in this business for 20 and more years in Üsküdar. You will learn about the art, art materials and techniques. Everybody can participate no matter if they are beginners or experienced. Our purpose is to guide you so that you can enjoy this experience and create a unique piece of art. You can come alone or organize workshop with your friends, family. After your class, take home your own unique pieces of art.

UNESCO has recognized the traditional Turkish art form of “ebru” (marbling) as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. Learn the basics and create three beautiful pieces—a tote bag and two postcards—during this intimate workshop in Istanbul. With guidance from your instructor, use special tools to drop and swirl paints in water, creating bold designs that you can then transfer. Turkish tea, coffee, and cookies keep you fueled as you work.

Learn the Turkish art of paper marbling with a private instructor. In this workshop, discover different ebru techniques and patterns and practice each style. The instructor provides all the materials, so take your time and have fun making ebru art. At the end of the workshop, take your marbled paper creations home with you.

Create your own signature fragrance in Istanbul with expert guidance and a beautiful Bosphorus view. Explore over 50 fragrance ingredients, experiment with different scent combinations, and take home your own 50 ml perfume. This hands-on experience combines the art of perfumery with a personal touch of Turkish hospitality, giving you a unique way to experience Istanbul beyond traditional sightseeing.

Discover one of Türkiye’s most iconic traditions with a hands-on Turkish coffee workshop in Istanbul. In this experience, you will learn how to prepare authentic Turkish coffee using traditional equipment and the unique hot sand brewing method. Your instructor will guide you step by step through the process, from understanding the finely ground coffee to controlling the heat, creating the perfect foam, and serving it in the traditional way.

Finding a personal Istanbul souvenir can be more meaningful when you create it yourself. Join a perfume-making workshop in historic Galata and choose from a wide range of fragrance components to design your own signature scent. Expert guidance introduces you to fragrance layers and Ottoman perfume traditions, while Turkish delight adds local flavor to the experience. Leave with your personalized perfume as a wearable reminder of Istanbul.

The glow of Turkish mosaic lamps illuminates many Istanbul bazaars and cafés. Create your own unique artwork with the help of a supportive instructor during this Istanbul workshop, with unlimited tea and free-flow Turkish delight. You’ll have a choice of more than 50 different colors of glass in a range of shapes and sizes, while your finished lamp will be carefully packaged for easy transport home.

No experience required — perfect for beginners and creative travelers A unique souvenir made with your own hands Ideal for solo travelers, couples or small groups A relaxed and welcoming atmosphere in a local art studio Connect with Turkish culture through art, stories and flavors

Master the art of preparing Turkish coffee during a small-group class in Istanbul. Begin at Balkapanı Han with a history lesson on coffee in Turkish culture. Then, follow your instructor's lead to create the perfect cup of this iconic beverage. At the end, enjoy a fortune reading of your coffee grounds and receive a charming coffee set to take home.

Uncover the sacred practice of the mystical Sufis at a Mevlevi Sema ceremony, held at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha Culture Center. Have the special chance to witness the 750-year-old tradition, which has been preserved on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Be mesmerized by the sight of the whirling dervishes as they perform their unique rituals during a show with a live orchestra.

Based on Arabic letters, traditional Turkish Hüsn-i Hat calligraphy has been recognized as a cultural heritage of humanity. Learn about the artform and create a unique souvenir of your stay in Istanbul during this small-group workshop. After an introduction, sketch a design and transfer it onto a glass panel using special inks. While your work dries in its brass frame, enjoy Turkish tea or coffee with traditional snacks.

Discover the Secrets of Perfumery: Guided by a skilled perfume specialist, explore the process of blending fragrances while learning about the origins and character of over 50 natural essences. Create Your Own Signature Scent: Choose from a wide selection of notes to design a perfume that reflects your personality. As your blend is finalized, relax with a cup of aromatic Turkish coffee or refreshing pomegranate tea, paired with classic Turkish delights. Enjoy Local Insights: Chat with your host about Istanbul’s culture, hidden treasures, and local stories as you soak in the panoramic Bosphorus views. Add a Personal Touch: Name your fragrance, customize its label, and take home a 50ml bottle of your handmade perfume. You’ll also receive a formula card so you can recreate your scent anytime.

Don't let attempts to capture perfect photos get in the way of your sightseeing trip. Leave it all to a professional on this private photo shoot experience, where an expert will take care of everything—from taking you to the best locations in Istanbul to professionally editing your photos. You'll leave with memories to treasure forever that will wow family and friends.

Discover Istanbul’s European and Asian sides—and taste a range of delectable Turkish delicacies—on this full-day, small-group tour. Meet your guide in the morning in Istanbul’s Old City, and be sure to come hungry: you have a day of feasting ahead of you. Explore a spice market, and enjoy a traditional Turkish breakfast, before crossing the Bosphorus to trendy Kadikoy. Sip Turkish coffee, visit multiple restaurants, and discover Istanbul’s must-try dishes.

Discover the vibrant art scene of Istanbul on this immersive tour that takes you through the city's top contemporary museums and artistic streets. Engage with innovative exhibitions and installations that showcase the work of local and international artists. Wander through the artistic neighborhoods filled with colorful murals and creative expressions that reflect Istanbul's cultural richness. Perfect for art enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, this tour provides a unique lens into the modern artistic movement shaping the city today. - Explore contemporary museums showcasing local and international art - Stroll through artistic streets adorned with vibrant murals - Ideal for art lovers and those seeking cultural experiences - Guided tour with insights into Istanbul's evolving art scene

Unleash your creativity in the heart of Istanbul at the Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop — one of the most unique things to do near Hagia Sophia and a true must-do cultural experience. Begin with an immersive film that unveils the rich history of mosaic art from Byzantine to Ottoman times, setting the tone for your hands-on workshop. Guided by master artisans, craft your own mosaic lamp using exclusive glass pieces in vibrant colors such as gold and turquoise — a signature Istanbul souvenir you can make yourself. While designing your lamp, enjoy unlimited Turkish tea and traditional sweets in a warm and artistic setting. At the end of your visit, take home a stunning lamp that reflects your creativity and the enchanting legacy of Istanbul — a perfect highlight to add to your list of top things to do in the Historical Peninsula.

Join our Traditional Stained Glass Painting Workshop for a blend of tradition and innovation in Turkey's rich cultural scene. This isn't just a class; it's a deep dive into vitreous enamel painting, a craft that combines color, light, and narrative. Learn the history and techniques of vitrail in Anatolia, guided by local experts. Our workshop is open to all levels, with tailored instruction to realize your vision on glass. Experience Turkish hospitality with tea, coffee, and snacks, and immerse in cultural talks. Create your stained glass art and connect with Turkey's artistic heritage, leaving with a unique piece and a story of creativity. Discover stained glass artistry with us and take a piece of Turkey's soul home.

Take advantage of extended layover time in Istanbul on a round-trip tour of city highlights from the airport, customized to suit your interests and schedule. Zip with ease between iconic sights such as the Hagia Sophia and Grand Bazaar, and benefit from historic and cultural insights provided by your professional guide.