Grasse: what to visit as a family

What to visit in Grasse: must-see attractions for families, including perfumes, old stones and nature.

The world capital of perfume and gateway to the Prealps of the French Riviera, Grasse is brimming with activities for all ages. Between olfactory workshops, engaging museums, medieval alleyways, and outdoor excursions, you can easily fill one to three days exploring. Just 15 minutes away, the Hotel-Restaurant Le Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is an ideal base for exploring the region's diverse landscapes, from the city to the sea and the mountains.

In short

• Perfume immersion: museum, creative workshops, essence gardens to learn while having fun.

• Old town: narrow streets, cathedral, small squares and panoramas suitable for curious children.

• Outdoors: spectacular gorges, plateaus and caves in the immediate vicinity.

• Ready-made itineraries for 1 day, 2 days or in rainy weather.

• Convenient stay: family rooms and on-site restaurants at the Relais Impérial.

Grasse, the cradle of perfumes: fun visits for the whole family

The International Perfume Museum (MIP)

A true landmark, the MIP tells the story of perfumes from antiquity to the present day. Children will love the amazing perfume bottles, the perfume organs, and the sensory displays. Allow 1 to 2 hours for a comfortable visit. Check the temporary exhibitions and workshops on the official website of the Museums of Grasse: Musées de Grasse – MIP .

Olfactory workshops and historic factories

Many perfume houses in Grasse offer introductory workshops suitable for families (often for children as young as 6–8) where participants can create their own eau de toilette and take their creation home. Book in advance, especially during school holidays. The Tourist Office lists the options and recommended age groups: Pays de Grasse Tourisme .

A tradition recognized by UNESCO

The perfume-making skills and traditions of the Grasse region have been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list since 2018, guaranteeing their authenticity and intergenerational transmission. Learn more: UNESCO – Perfume-making skills and practices in the Grasse region (2018) .

Tip: opt for morning slots for workshops in the summer; the scent of the plants is stronger and there are fewer people around.

Old Grasse on foot: narrow streets, heritage and viewpoints

The must-sees of the historic center

• Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral and its works (including Rubens).

• Place aux Aires and its terraces, ideal for an ice cream break.

• Cours Honoré-Cresp, a balcony overlooking the Mediterranean in good weather.

• The arcades, alleyways and vaulted passages that give it its medieval charm.

The streets are often cobbled and steep: opt for a baby carrier rather than a stroller, or choose routes with ramps. For parking, use the car parks on the outskirts of town and then walk leisurely back towards the town centre.

Urban treasure hunt

Offer children a "bingo" of details to spot: door knockers, fountains, sundials, old signs. The Tourist Office and some museums occasionally offer activity booklets: check before your visit.

Gardens and nature: from essence to landscape

MIP Gardens and Perfume Flowers

In Mouans-Sartoux, the MIP Gardens showcase emblematic plants (centifolia rose, jasmine, tuberose, lavender, etc.) across several hectares. A perfect educational sensory walk in spring and summer to understand the origin of fragrances.

Gorges, plateaus and viewpoints

• Gorges du Loup: waterfalls, supervised swimming in some places depending on the season, easy trails.

• Caussols and Calern plateau: wide open spaces, limestone pavement and clear skies for stargazing.

• Siagne Canal: shaded sections suitable for families to walk in the cool.

Backpack tip: water, hats and non-slip shoes are essential; the trails can be chalky and slippery.

The nearby caves

Just a few minutes away, the Saint-Cézaire Caves offer a spectacular descent into a world of stalactites and draperies. A fun guided tour suitable for even the youngest visitors: Saint-Cézaire Caves .

Museums and complementary workshops in Grasse

Fine arts and local heritage

• Fragonard Villa-Museum: works by the master and Italian-style gardens.

• Museum of Art and History of Provence: objects, costumes and daily life of yesteryear.

These visits combine very well with the MIP to vary perfumes, history and arts, without overloading the day.

Craftsmanship and know-how

Soap-making workshops, traditional confectionery, olive oil mills in the hinterland: so many opportunities for sensory and gourmet discoveries to share with the family.

Family itinerary ideas

1 day: the essentials without rushing

• Morning: Old Grasse on foot (Cathedral, Place aux Aires, panorama).

• Lunchtime: on the terrace.

• Afternoon: MIP + mini olfactory workshop.

• End of day: nature break on a shaded section of the Siagne canal.

2 days: perfumes + nature

• Day 1: MIP, creative workshop, old town and ice cream parlor.

• Day 2: Gardens of the MIP in Mouans-Sartoux in the morning; afternoon discovery of a cave or walk in the Gorges du Loup.

Rainy day

• Combine MIP, Villa-Musée Fragonard and Musée d'Art et d'Histoire de Provence.

• Add an indoor workshop (perfumery, soap making, local pastry making).

Pace your visits: 2 “key” activities per day are enough with children, complemented by gourmet breaks.

Convenient stay: sleep and eat 15 minutes from Grasse

A peaceful base between sea and mountains

Located in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, on the Route Napoléon, Le Relais Impérial combines tranquility, quick access to Grasse, and a welcoming, homey atmosphere. It's the ideal location for exploring the region while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Family rooms and views of the hills

The 28 rooms, divided into 5 categories, are designed to suit all types of travelers. Some offer a terrace or bathtub for relaxing after sightseeing. Discover the options for families and groups on the Rooms page .

Enjoy a delicious meal on site

Between a bistro-style restaurant and a wood-fired pizzeria, you can dine without getting back in the car. Pleasant terraces in summer and winter, generous grilled dishes, and local produce: everything is in place to recharge your batteries. See our services and family-friendly amenities: Services .

Private events and groups

Fancy a fragrant family reunion, a birthday celebration, or a rustic wedding? The venue offers adaptable spaces and personalized support. More information: Events .

Want to know the spirit of the place? Read the story of the family who run the house, a story of hospitality and passion for the region.

Book your stay

Easily plan your weekend or holiday by accessing our official booking engine: Book at Relais Impérial .

Practical tips for visiting Grasse with your family

• Best time to visit: April to October for the flowers in bloom; May (ExpoRose) and August (Jasminade) are particularly lively. Check the exact dates on the Tourist Office website.

• Reservations: perfume workshops and guided tours fill up quickly during the holidays; book 1 to 2 weeks in advance.

• Mobility: favour peripheral car parks and walking; shuttles and local buses serve key points.

• With a baby: some streets are steep; bring a baby carrier. Changing tables and high chairs are available in many restaurants.

• Weather: in summer, start early and visit the museums in the afternoon; in winter, bring a light sweater, as Grasse is at a higher altitude than the coast.

FAQ

What to do in Grasse in half a day with children?

Focus on the essentials: explore the historic center (Place aux Aires, Cathedral) followed by a visit to the International Perfume Museum. Add a mini olfactory workshop if availability allows. Plan a snack break at an artisan ice cream parlor and keep an eye on the weather: the narrow streets can be windy. If you arrive by car, park on the outskirts to save time. This itinerary combines culture, a playful exploration of scents, and convivial moments without rushing the younger children.

Where can you create your own perfume in Grasse and from what age?

Several historic perfume houses offer workshops lasting approximately one to two hours, often suitable for children as young as six to eight, depending on the format. Children choose notes from a selection guided by an instructor and leave with their own personalized bottle. Family sessions fill up quickly during peak season: book online through the Tourist Office or directly with the perfumeries. Check the minimum age, the language of the workshop, and the cancellation policy before paying.

What easy walks around Grasse offer a change from museums?

Three nature-based ideas: the MIP Gardens in Mouans-Sartoux for a sensory stroll, a shaded section of the Siagne Canal for a cool walk, and the Gorges du Loup to see waterfalls. Depending on the season, add an underground visit to the Saint-Cézaire Caves, a favorite with children. Bring closed-toe shoes, water, and a light windbreaker: the limestone terrain and breezes can be unpredictable.

What is the best time for perfume flowers in Grasse?

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit: the centifolia rose typically blooms in May, jasmine in summer, while lavender and other flowers continue to bloom until September. To find out about specific harvests or events, consult the calendar of the Tourist Office and the gardens. Even when not in bloom, the educational gardens remain interesting thanks to their information panels, living collections, and workshops.

Where to stay near Grasse for a peaceful holiday with children?

Just 15 minutes away, Le Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey offers a strategic location between Grasse, the hinterland, and the coast. Family rooms, two on-site restaurants, and easy parking make it easy to travel light. After sightseeing, you can enjoy the tranquility of the hills and a welcoming atmosphere. Browse availability and current rates on our online booking page .

Key points to remember

• Grasse is ideally explored in 1 to 3 days, combining perfumes, old town and nature.

• The MIP, the olfactory workshops and the gardens are perfect for families.

• Opt for walking and book workshops and museums in advance during peak periods.

• Beautiful nature getaways (gorges, plateaus, caves) can be found within 30 minutes.

• Ideal base: Le Relais Impérial, between sea and mountains, with restaurants on site.

• Ready to plan? Check out our rooms and services , then easily book your stay.