Perfumery in Grasse: prices, workshops and special offers for 2025

Are you fascinated by perfumery in Grasse ? Discover everything you need to know about prices, workshops, and tips for exploring this unique world in 2025. The world capital of perfume, Grasse attracts enthusiasts every year who come to immerse themselves in the delicate art of olfactory creation. But beyond its famous fragrances, experiencing perfumery in Grasse also means accessing a living heritage, ancestral know-how, immersive workshops, and iconic boutiques that make the city shine far beyond the French Riviera.

Do you dream of learning to create your own fragrance in a perfumery workshop, visiting the most prestigious perfume houses, or discovering an exceptional eau de toilette at an affordable price? Grasse caters to all desires, from simple guided tours to personalized experiences, and offers something for every budget. Whether you're curious, an enthusiast, or already a connoisseur, the city unfolds before you on an olfactory journey through history, rare scents, and breathtaking landscapes.

Located just 15 minutes from this iconic city, Le Relais Impérial – a charming hotel nestled between the sea and the mountains – is the ideal starting point for your fragrant getaway. In this article, we provide all the practical information you need about the world of perfumery in Grasse in 2025: tour prices, opening hours, types of workshops, must-see addresses, and tips to make the most of your stay in the Grasse region. Follow our guide to awaken your senses and experience an unforgettable journey into the heart of perfume tradition!

Perfumery in Grasse: the history and international influence of the perfume capital

Grasse has truly earned its title as the world capital of perfume. Nestled between the sea and the mountains, this town in the Alpes-Maritimes region has cultivated its olfactory art since the 16th century, blending tradition, innovation, and artisanal excellence. Before delving into the practical aspects and insider tips, it's helpful to understand what makes the Grasse perfume experience so unique.

The origins of perfumery in Grasse

Grasse's renown in the world of perfume stems from a fascinating history. In the Middle Ages, the town first distinguished itself in leatherwork, but tanners sought to mask the odor of their goods with floral essences. Over time, the artisans of Grasse became true alchemists of perfume, developing unique expertise in distillation, enfleurage, and extraction. To learn more about the local history and traditions, visit the page dedicated to the history of the Relais Impérial family .

Antique bottles, ylang-ylang, jasmine, tuberose, centifolia rose: the raw materials of the region, combined with the ingenuity of master perfumers, would build the reputation of Grasse perfumery, which would grow even more with the rise of haute couture and the great houses in the 19th and 20th centuries.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2018, UNESCO inscribed the " perfume-making skills of the Grasse region " on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This distinction highlights three fundamental stages of Grasse perfumery:

• The cultivation of the perfume plant

• Knowledge of natural raw materials

• The art of composing perfume

Coming to Grasse means experiencing this living history firsthand, exploring the richness of its gardens of essences, and meeting artisans of excellence who perpetuate age-old techniques every day.

A global influence

Grasse exports its concentrates, essences, and expertise far beyond France. From Chanel and Dior to Guerlain and Lancôme, the biggest names in the industry source their ingredients from its producers, confident in their ability to offer innovation and authenticity to their clients. To explore the art of perfumery in detail, feel free to browse the services offered by Le Relais Impérial during your stay. Today, the city is home to both established names (Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard) and a new generation of independent creators who are boldly reinventing the craft.

Discover perfumery in Grasse: tours, workshops, museums

Exploring perfumery in Grasse offers a wealth of experiences blending history, expertise, interactive discovery, and sensory pleasure. Here's a detailed overview of the offerings and addresses not to be missed in 2025.

The great iconic houses to visit

Some must-see brands offer self-guided or guided tours of their workshops, factories, museums, and boutiques. Access is often free, but premium tour options are also available. Here's a look at some of the main ones:

Fragonard

• Free entry to the historic factory : guided tour of the workshops, explanations on distillation and presentation of a collection of sumptuous bottles.

• Perfume Museum : an immersion in several centuries of perfume history, from the 18th century to the present day.

• Shops : purchase of homemade perfumes, souvenirs, handcrafted soaps.

• Guided tour in French lasting 20 to 40 minutes.

• Address : 20 Boulevard Fragonard, Grasse

Visit the Perfume Museum (official website)

Molinard

• Heritage museum in a magnificent Belle Époque country house.

• Manufacturing demonstrations with discovery of raw materials (rose, jasmine, lavender, etc.).

• Boutique with exclusive items.

• Free entry, guided tours of 30 to 45 minutes, booking recommended.

• Address : 60 Boulevard Victor Hugo, Grasse

To book a Molinard workshop (official website)

Galimard

• Visit the workshop to discover the different stages of creating a perfume.

• Museum space recounting the evolution of perfumery in Grasse.

• Boutiques with signature line and bespoke options.

• Free visit, by appointment, approximately 30 minutes.

• Address : 73 route de Cannes, Grasse (Perfume Factory / Museum)

More information about the Galimard workshops (official website)

Prices for guided tours, workshops and experiences in 2025

For several years now, most major perfume houses have been offering immersive perfume creation workshops to introduce participants to the art of olfactory creation. It's a must for visitors who want to leave with their own perfume, created on-site.

Standard guided tours

• General admission : most factory museums are free to enter or offer free guided tours, often in several languages.

• Private group tour : between €50 and €120 depending on the duration and number of participants.

Perfume creation workshops

• Adult package : between €49 and €99 per person (duration: 1 to 2 hours)

• Junior or parent-child workshop : between €29 and €49 (from age 7, adapted playful activity)

• Expert workshops (half-day or full-day): from €120

• Bespoke perfume / private session with a "nose" : from €250

• Included in the price : bottle (often 30 ml to 50 ml) of the personalized creation, delivery possible at an additional cost.

Premium experiences and unusual tours

• Flower field walks in season : from €20 to €35 per person, mainly in spring (May-June for roses, August-September for jasmine).

• Sensory nighttime tours, themed tours with tastings : between €40 and €80

• Aromatherapy or natural cosmetics workshops : from €30 to €70 depending on the package.

• VIP sessions, private bookings, birthdays : prices upon request.

Combined tickets and discounts

Some providers offer activity packages or family/student discounts: - Combined ticket for the International Perfume Museum + MIP Gardens : €8 to €12 - Reduced rate for workshops for groups of 4 or more. - Good to know : most partner accommodations and tourist offices offer exclusive promo codes; ask at your reception.

Essential addresses for total immersion

Grasse is brimming with boutiques, gardens, museums, and experiential venues. Here are the must-sees for any perfume lover:

• International Perfume Museum (MIP) : the whole history of perfume in the world, interactive exhibitions, workshops, scents to test.

• Gardens of the International Perfume Museum : flowery panoramas, a stroll through the heart of ancient plantations in Mouans-Sartoux (10 min from Grasse).

• Gardens of the Palais des Congrès : free access, magnolias, cypress trees and views of the old town.

• Independent houses : Parfumerie Le Collectionneur, Art et Parfum… to discover the current creative scene.

Perfume creation workshops: instructions and tips

Participating in a perfume creation workshop is an experience not to be missed in Grasse. From olfactory discovery to complete personalization, these workshops are suitable for all levels and ages. To book your stay and guarantee your place in a workshop, remember to book in advance via the Relais Impérial's online booking platform .

What happens during a workshop in Grasse?

The principle is simple but magnificent: accompanied by a professional (often a "nose" or in-house perfumer), you discover the basics of composition, test several essences and assemble your own formula.

The key steps include: 1. Introduction to the language of scents 2. Discovery of olfactory families (floral, citrus, woody, amber, gourmand…) 3. Presentation of local raw materials (rose, jasmine, tuberose, lavender, mimosa, etc.) 4. First olfactory accord: choice of top, middle, and base notes 5. Personalized blending and bottling 6. Souvenir workshop: your custom-made perfume to take home (generally 30 ml to 100 ml) and the possibility of recreating your recipe on site later.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours for most workshops, up to half a day for tailor-made or fun formats (team building, hen parties, children's workshops, etc.).

The amateur perfumer's guide (Cosmopolitan) also offers tips for creating your own perfume.

Practical advice for choosing the right workshop

• Book well in advance : entry is free for the visit, but online booking is mandatory for workshops, especially in high season.

• Opt for the morning if you wish to benefit from the calm and attention of the experts.

• Choose an adult, child or family package depending on your family members.

• Check the languages offered : the majority of workshops are conducted in French and English, some also offer Italian or German.

• Check customer reviews on TripAdvisor , Google or specialist websites to choose the house or theme that best suits you.

• Wear casual clothes and avoid scented jewelry on the big day so as not to interfere with your creation.

• Consider shipping if you are travelling light : many workshops offer to send your perfume directly to your home.

The special "nose for a day" experience

Some perfume houses, like Molinard or Galimard, offer the chance to become a "nose for a day": with the help of a perfumer, you compose a complex and elegant personal fragrance and leave with a truly original creation. An unforgettable experience, both fun and enriching, also available in duo packages (ideal for a unique gift or a couple's experience).

Great tips for discovering Grasse and its perfume industry without breaking the bank

Even though Grasse is a major player in the international perfume scene, there are many ways to enjoy the destination without breaking the bank. Here are some tips and tricks for experiencing a fragrant adventure that's accessible to everyone.

Free entry, samples and special offers

• Guided tours of the Fragonard, Molinard or Galimard factories are always free , take advantage of this to discover behind the scenes without spending a penny.

• Short discovery workshops from €29 , enough to give or treat yourself to an original souvenir.

• Samples offered at the end of many visits or when making a purchase in store – ideal for testing several fragrances before committing.

• Sales and promotions : in January and June, during local festivals, or through partner codes available at the tourist office or from your hotel (including Le Relais Impérial).

Enjoy fragrant events throughout the year

Grasse pulsates with the rhythm of numerous perfume-related festivals: - Designer exhibitions and sales in spring and autumn in the historic center. - The Jasmine Festival (August) and the Rose Expo (May): entertainment, visits to flower gardens, concerts, and pop-up workshops. - Markets featuring olfactory artisans , conferences, and tastings of local products. - Heritage Days : privileged access to artisan workshops, museums, gardens, and historic distilleries. - Meet the producers : seasonal visits to partner flower fields.

Smart shopping: where to buy perfume at affordable prices in Grasse?

• Factory outlets : almost always offer preferential prices on home perfumes, gift sets, candles, soaps and scented skincare.

• Independent boutiques : opt for discovering local designers, often less well-known but offering unique creations at affordable prices.

• Markets and fairs : to find original products and enjoy the local produce of Grasse (honey, floral confectionery, essential oils…).

• Pop-up shops and outlets : check regularly, private sales or clearance sales are organized every season.

Planning your perfumery trip to Grasse in 2025: tips and practical information

Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group, planning your trip to Grasse around the world of perfumery means combining cultural experience, relaxation, and the art of living. Here's how to make the most of your stay.

Choosing the right time to visit the perfume capital

• Spring : flowering of the centifolia rose (May-June), ideal season for walks in the fields and outdoor workshops.

• Summer : jasmine festival and local produce markets.

• Autumn-winter : quieter periods, preferential visits with less crowding in factories and attractive rates from many service providers.

Ideal length of stay

• 1 to 2 days : perfect for a quick overview, factory visit, walk in the old town centre, small olfactory workshop.

• 3 to 5 days : to delve deeper with several workshops, visits to gardens, exploration of museums and discovery of the villages of the Pays de Grasse (Mougins, Gourdon, Cabris…).

• One week : ideal for combining perfume experience, relaxation in the mountains or swimming on the coast, and cultural getaways around Grasse.

Enjoy a harmonious stay at the Relais Impérial

Located just minutes from Grasse, Le Relais Impérial combines tranquility, authenticity, and quick access to all the major perfume-making centers. The hotel welcomes families, couples, and groups with customized packages: meals, personalized advice, organized tours, partnerships with local workshops, and shuttle services upon request. For any practical questions, please see the hotel's contact page .

Good to know: - Book your workshops in advance with the hotel or online to guarantee your place, especially during school holidays. - The Relais Impérial team can help you create your ideal itinerary combining olfactory experiences, cultural discoveries, and gourmet delights; check out the event options to organize a wedding, ceremony, or exceptional event in Grasse. - Discounts may be available upon presentation of your hotel card at certain partner establishments. For an extended stay, discover the various rooms available to suit all needs.

Perfumery in Grasse: a French art of living

Discovering Grasse is much more than inhaling delightful fragrances. The town has cultivated a true culture of elegance and conviviality around perfumery, a feeling that permeates every corner. Walking through the old town, you'll smell the jasmine wafting through the narrow streets, admire the colorful frescoes depicting the history of perfumers, and savor local products in charming cafés.

Walks and gourmet stops

• Tasting of flavored pastries and sweets : calissons, candied chestnuts, floral syrups, jasmine or rose ice cream…

• Picnic in a public garden or a field of flowers : the French Riviera and the Pre-Alps offer a mosaic of landscapes to absorb the beauty and tranquility of the Grasse region.

• Take a break on a terrace in the city centre : facing the bay of Cannes or in the heights, enjoy a refreshing drink in the shade of the plane trees after your visit.

A rich architectural and artistic heritage

• Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral : Baroque masterpieces and paintings by Rubens.

• Place aux Aires : a Provençal market covered with wisteria, an authentic atmosphere guaranteed.

• Mills, mansions and ornate fountains : every step in Grasse takes you back to the great era of perfume merchants.

Encounters and sensations

• Listen to the anecdotes of the farmers as they stroll through the flower plantations.

• Chat with the passionate perfume artisans in store.

• Take the time to smell, test, explore: let the scent of Grasse guide you towards lasting memories.

FAQ: Everything you need to know about perfumery in Grasse

When to book a perfumery workshop in Grasse?

Ideally several weeks in advance during peak season (April-October) and during school holidays.

What are some of the iconic perfumes made in Grasse?

Rose centifolia, jasmine from Grasse, tuberose, mimosa, neroli, lavender… These essences are used in the composition of many great perfumes worldwide.

Where can I find workshops suitable for children in Grasse?

At Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard and in some independent perfumeries: they offer fun sessions from age 7 and parent-child workshops.

Is it possible to buy a custom-made perfume online?

Yes, some establishments allow you to compose and order online, but the sensory experience on site remains unmatched.

Are there any open days or special events?

Yes, during the Jasmine and Rose Festivals, heritage days, or one-off events organized by the City of Grasse and perfume houses.

Perfumery in Grasse is experienced as an art, an immersive and creative adventure at the crossroads of nature, history, and modernity. Don't wait any longer to discover this intoxicating world during your stay at the Relais Impérial , and let your senses guide you on the perfume route!