Olfactory tourism in Grasse: the perfume route 2025
- Cedric KTORZA
- Nov 19
- 6 min read
Olfactory tourism in the footsteps of perfume in Grasse: follow the ideal 2025 itinerary. Discover in one day (or two) the historic perfumeries, creative workshops, perfume plant gardens and the best places to experience the essence of Grasse, the world capital of perfume, while enjoying a serene base between sea and mountains.
In short
1 day (or 2 day) itinerary to visit iconic museums, gardens and perfumeries.
Creative workshops accessible to beginners and enthusiasts, by reservation.
Key flowering seasons: centifolia rose in May, grandiflorum jasmine in summer.
An ideal base 15 minutes from Grasse: Le Relais Impérial, calm and authentic.
Practical advice: transport, timetables, perfume purchases and best practices.
Why is Grasse the world capital of perfume?
Grasse owes its renown to its unique terroir, climate, and expertise, particularly in the cultivation of the centifolia rose and grandiflorum jasmine. In 2018, the “perfume-making skills of the Grasse region” were inscribed on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list, recognizing a living heritage passed down through generations. To plan your visit, consult the Grasse Tourist Office and the International Perfume Museum (MIP) .
Expert tip: alternate “culture” (museum, gardens) and “practice” (workshop, factory visit) for a complete sensory immersion.
Perfume itinerary 2025: a day (or two) to smell Grasse
This flexible itinerary allows you to explore the fundamentals of perfume, to smell the raw materials and to compose your own creation, at your own pace.
Morning: Culture and perfume plants
International Perfume Museum (MIP): discover the history of fragrances, from raw materials to exceptional bottles. Permanent and temporary exhibitions allow you to understand the evolution of uses and techniques. Information and tickets: MIP – Grasse Museums .
MIP Gardens (Mouans-Sartoux): a stroll among fragrant plants, perfect for identifying species in situ (seasonality according to flowering times). Practical information: MIP Gardens .
Lunch: Old Grasse and local flavors
Stroll through the narrow streets, past small squares and colorful facades, then enjoy a delicious treat. Make sure to leave time for the Place aux Aires and the artisan shops. The Tourist Office offers a helpful map of points of interest.
Afternoon: Behind the scenes at the houses and creative workshop
Visit perfume factories and museums: historic houses offer guided tours to understand extraction, distillation, and maceration. Explore, for example, the sites of Fragonard , Molinard – Ateliers Parfums, and Galimard – Ateliers.
"Nose for a Day" workshop: create your own eau de parfum with a perfume consultant. Slots book early during peak season; compare duration, number of materials available, and format (solo, duo, family).
End of the day: panoramic views and sunset
During the "golden hours," head up to the viewpoints to photograph the rooftops of Grasse and, on a clear day, the Mediterranean in the distance. It's also the perfect time to finalize your perfume purchases.
Roadmap: Perfume Route 2025
Stage | Place | Experience | Reservation | Useful link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | International Perfume Museum | History, collections, raw materials | Recommended during peak season | |
2 | MIP Gardens (Mouans-Sartoux) | Fragrant plants in situ | Depending on the time of year and weather | |
3 | Historic Perfumeries | Factory and museum visits | Often not, but check | |
4 | Creative workshop | Create your own perfume | Yes, essential | Molinard – Workshops |
5 | Alternative workshop | Duo/family packages | Yes | Galimard – Workshops |
Note: schedules and arrangements may change; check the official websites the day before your visit.
Seasons, blooms and events not to be missed
May: Centifolia rose. Several farms open occasionally; plan early and follow the local calendar.
Summer (late July–September): jasmine grandiflorum, symbol of Grasse. Some public events take place throughout the season.
Events calendar: exhibitions, flower festivals and fragrance-themed events vary throughout the year. For the most up-to-date information, please see the Pays de Grasse Tourism calendar .
International recognition: since 2018, the perfume-making skills of Grasse have been listed by UNESCO. Learn more: UNESCO – Perfume-making skills in the Grasse region .
Choosing and successfully completing your olfactory workshop
Workshop type: introductory (guided formulation), tailor-made (more advanced assembly), family (fun), duo/event.
Duration and content: compare the number of materials offered, the time spent with a "nose", and the inclusion of a final bottle (refillable).
Booking: essential between April and October and during school holidays.
Tips: arrive with some notes in mind (fresh, floral, amber, woody), avoid wearing perfume before the workshop, and take olfactory breaks.
Where to stay between the sea and the mountains: your base at the Relais Impérial
Just 15 minutes from Grasse, Le Relais Impérial, on the Route Napoléon in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, offers peace, authenticity, and views of the surrounding hills. It's the perfect base for exploring the region's workshops, museums, and hilltop villages, and then relaxing in the evening.
Rooms: 28 rooms in 5 categories, some with a terrace or bathtub. See the cozy and bright rooms .
Table & conviviality: a bistronomic restaurant showcasing local produce and a wood-fired pizzeria with grilled meats. Details of services and restaurants .
Events: seminars, weddings, birthdays and bespoke celebrations in our modular spaces. Learn more about event planning .
Book: check availability and offers on our secure booking platform or discover the house on the homepage .
Access and transport: plan your visit carefully
Along the legendary Route Napoléon
The Relais Impérial is located on the N85, a scenic route linking the French Riviera to the Prealps. For suggested stops and viewpoints, consult the official website of the Route Napoléon .
Regional trains, planes and buses
Train: TER to Grasse from Cannes/Nice. Timetables and tickets: TER Sud – SNCF .
By plane: international service via Nice Côte d'Azur Airport , approximately 45–60 minutes depending on traffic.
Bus: the ZOU! Région Sud regional network connects neighbouring municipalities; check routes and timetables for the date of your stay.
For any logistical questions before your arrival, please do not hesitate to contact us .
Practical tips for a successful olfactory journey
Perfumes and travel: when flying, respect the rule for liquids in the cabin (bottles ≤100 ml in a transparent bag).
Test on skin: allow a fragrance to develop 3–6 hours before purchase; top, middle and base notes reveal its signature.
Ethics and sustainability: favour houses that are transparent about the origin of materials; respect fields and gardens (do not pick without permission).
Rested nose: avoid exposing yourself to too many smells in succession; smell coffee or get some fresh air to “reset” your sense of smell.
Weather and comfort: shoes suitable for steep alleyways; water bottle and hat in summer.
FAQ
How much time should I allow for a perfume tour in Grasse?
In one day, you can cover the essentials: the International Perfume Museum (MIP), a historic perfumery, and an introductory workshop. For a more leisurely pace, allow two days to include the MIP Gardens, a second perfume house (Fragonard, Molinard, or Galimard), and more time to stroll through the old town. Remember to factor in travel time between Grasse and the workshops/gardens, as well as breaks to rest your sense of smell and fully enjoy the visits.
What is the best time to see the iconic flowers of Grasse?
Each flower has its season: the centifolia rose reaches its peak in May, while the grandiflorum jasmine blooms mainly between late July and September. Weather conditions can slightly shift these peaks. To plan your visit at the right time and find out about events related to the blooms, consult the Pays de Grasse calendar and the information from the MIP Gardens , which is updated according to the season.
Do you need to book perfume creation workshops in advance?
Yes, it's highly recommended, especially from April to October and during weekends and holidays. Slots for introductory workshops and customized packages fill up quickly. Compare the details (duration, number of materials, included bottle, refills) on the official websites of companies like Molinard or Galimard. Arrive without perfume to avoid overwhelming your sense of smell and to fully enjoy the session.
Where to stay near Grasse for a peaceful, perfume-filled getaway?
To stay close to Grasse while avoiding the hustle and bustle of the coast, choose a base in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey. The Relais Impérial is located 15 minutes from the perfume capital, on the Route Napoléon, and offers comfortable rooms, a bistro-style restaurant, and a wood-fired pizzeria. Discover our rooms and services , then easily book online through our dedicated platform .
Key points to remember
Grasse offers a unique immersion between heritage, gardens and olfactory workshops.
UNESCO recognized the perfume-making expertise of the Pays de Grasse in 2018.
Plan your visits and workshops, especially in spring and summer.
Alternate between museums, gardens and hands-on experiences for a balanced itinerary.
Stay 15 minutes from Grasse to combine peace and quiet with easy access.
Ready to experience Grasse in a different way? Discover Le Relais Impérial on the homepage or book your stay .
