Aromatherapy Botanical Distillation & Hydrosol Workshop
Overview
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.
What's Included
- ✦ Mini handmade soap made from distilled flower water
- ✦ Take home a sample of your own essential oil
- ✦ Choose your plant: lavender, bay leaf or (seasonally) rose petals
- ✦ Hands-on steam distillation session using traditional equipment
- ✦ Stories and historical anecdotes from ancient Istanbul
- ✦ Turkish coffee served with Turkish Delight
- ✦ flower water (hydrosol) bottle - as a gift
- ✦ Guided exploration of Little Hagia Sophia’s peaceful courtyard
Meeting Location
Küçük Ayasofya
Küçük Ayasofya Cami, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
Experience the rare opportunity to distill aromatic plants inside the historic Little Hagia Sophia, a living monument blending Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman heritage. Guided by a local expert, you’ll engage hands-on in traditional copper distillation methods, turning lavender or bay leaves into fragrant hydrosols. Unlike typical workshops, this one connects you deeply to Istanbul’s layered cultural past while creating your own natural essence. Perfect for wellness seekers, nature lovers, and curious travelers eager for a meaningful, sensory experience...
This workshop offers more than just a crafting experience; it’s a cultural journey into the heart of Istanbul’s ancient traditions. Participants will gain insight into the botanical origins and healing properties of the plants used. The intimate group setting encourages questions and sharing stories, creating a warm community atmosphere. Plus, the historic ambiance of Little Hagia Sophia adds a magical backdrop, making each session uniquely memorable. Guests also enjoy light refreshments, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
Frequently Asked Questions (7)
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Aromatherapy Botanical Distillation & Hydrosol Workshop?
Cancellation Policy
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Activity code: C-192954P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 18 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (7)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from City Balloon Tours customers.
Filter by:
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (+03).
- ✦ Mini handmade soap made from distilled flower water.
- ✦ Take home a sample of your own essential oil.
- ✦ Choose your plant: lavender, bay leaf or (seasonally) rose petals.
- ✦ Hands-on steam distillation session using traditional equipment.
- ✦ Stories and historical anecdotes from ancient Istanbul.
- ✦ Turkish coffee served with Turkish Delight.
- ✦ flower water (hydrosol) bottle - as a gift.
- ✦ Guided exploration of Little Hagia Sophia’s peaceful courtyard.
The minimum age to participate is 12..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Aromatherapy Botanical Distillation & Hydrosol Workshop is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Aromatherapy Botanical Distillation & Hydrosol Workshop will be included in your confirmation email from City Balloon Tours. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.
Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.
If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.
Oct 2026What's Included
- ✦ Mini handmade soap made from distilled flower water
- ✦ Take home a sample of your own essential oil
- ✦ Choose your plant: lavender, bay leaf or (seasonally) rose petals
- ✦ Hands-on steam distillation session using traditional equipment
- ✦ Stories and historical anecdotes from ancient Istanbul
- ✦ Turkish coffee served with Turkish Delight
- ✦ flower water (hydrosol) bottle - as a gift
- ✦ Guided exploration of Little Hagia Sophia’s peaceful courtyard
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
