Istanbul

Istanbul by Gallivant is an unisex eau de parfum in the niche price tier. It opens with bergamot, cardamom and thyme, moves into lavender, geranium, patchouli and myrrh and dries down to sandalwood, vanilla, tonka bean, amber and musk. Expect around 7 hours of wear, and it projects at a moderate level.

Notes, explained

Opening

Bergamot Sharp citrus with a faint bitter edge. The opening of about half of all men's fragrances.
Cardamom Cool, aromatic spice with a eucalyptus lift. Smells expensive.
Thyme Dry, sharp kitchen herb. Bracing and slightly antiseptic.

Heart

Lavender Herbal, clean, slightly medicinal. Barbershop in one note.
Geranium Rosy and minty at once. Reads masculine more often than not.
Patchouli Damp earth and dark chocolate. Either you love it or it's your least favourite note.
Myrrh Bitter, smoky resin. Ancient-smelling and slightly cool.

Dry-down

Sandalwood Creamy, milky wood. Soft and almost edible.
Vanilla Sweet, creamy and warm. The most comforting note in perfumery.
Tonka Bean Almond, hay and vanilla in one. Warm and slightly nutty.
Amber Warm, golden and resinous. Not a real material — a blend that glows.
Musk Warm, skin-like and slightly sweet. Makes a fragrance feel like you.

Smells like this

Cheaper alternatives

All 12 cheaper alternatives to Istanbul

More Gallivant fragrances · Discover · Cheaper alternatives