What to visit in Grasse in 1 day

Grasse: What to see in one day, from perfumes and the old town to panoramic views. Here's a clear itinerary, practical tips, and great places to visit to discover the world capital of perfume without missing a thing, just 15 minutes from the peaceful Le Relais Impérial.

In short

• Morning: old town, cathedral, International Perfume Museum, then perfume workshop.

• Lunch: a gourmet break on the terrace or a return to the calm of Le Relais Impérial .

• Afternoon: MIP gardens or alternative museums, strolling through alleyways and viewpoints.

• Evening: sunset on the Cours Honoré-Cresp, convivial dinner at the hotel.

• Tips: book the workshop in advance, choose May-June (flowering season), use the central car parks.

Morning: Immerse yourself in the heart of historic Grasse

Old town, squares and cathedral

Start early in the old town, a maze of medieval alleyways lined with weathered mansions. Stroll through the Place aux Aires and admire its fountain, then head to Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral to view its artworks (including works by Rubens and Fragonard) and enjoy the panoramic views of the Grasse countryside from its surroundings. On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the market brings the squares to life: perfect for a coffee and some photos.

Local tip: arrive before 9am to enjoy the almost empty alleyways and the soft light on the pastel facades.

International Perfume Museum (MIP)

Just a short walk away, the International Perfume Museum traces 3,000 years of olfactory history. Allow 60 to 90 minutes for a comfortable visit. There, you'll discover raw materials, distillation techniques, and the epic story of Grasse's perfume houses. Check opening hours and exhibitions on the museum's official website: International Perfume Museum. The perfume-making skills of the Grasse region have been listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage since 2018 ( source ).

Perfume workshop: create your own eau de toilette

Extend the experience with a olfactory workshop (45–90 minutes) at a renowned perfume house. You'll leave with your own creation and a solid understanding of perfume structure (top notes, heart notes, base notes). These sessions are very popular: book in advance, especially during the summer and school holidays.

Lunch: local flavors and a break in the countryside

For lunch, choose a terrace in the old town, or, if you're looking for peace and quiet and easy parking, head back to the Route Napoléon towards Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey and settle in at Le Relais Impérial, just 15 minutes away. This establishment offers a bistro-style restaurant and a wood-fired pizzeria, perfect for recharging before the afternoon. Discover the lunch and dinner options on the dedicated restaurant services page .

Afternoon: gardens, museums and fragrant strolls

MIP Gardens: A Botanical Immersion

If you love nature, head to the Gardens of the International Perfume Museum (JMIP) in Mouans-Sartoux. They cultivate centifolia roses, jasmine, tuberose, orange blossom, and more. It's the perfect complement to the MIP for understanding the perfume cycle, especially in spring (May-June) when the fields are in bloom. Practical information: MIP Gardens (JMIP).

Alternative museums and art houses

Prefer art and heritage? Opt for the Fragonard Museum (paintings, drawings) or the Museum of Art and History of Provence, which illuminate the soul of Grasse beyond just perfume. Allow 45–60 minutes per museum. Between visits, let your sense of smell be your guide: small independent shops and workshops line the streets, offering the chance to smell rare essences and take home a souvenir.

Walks and viewpoints

Finish with a stroll along the ramparts and the Cours Honoré-Cresp, a promenade offering views of the hills. On a clear day, the light casts a magnificent glow on the ochre rooftops of the old town. For more walking routes and events, see the city's "Discover Grasse" page: City of Grasse – Discover.

Evening: Sunset and a convivial dinner

When the crowds disperse, Grasse regains its tranquility. Enjoy the last rays of sunshine at the viewpoint, then head back to the cool air of the Prealps. The evening continues at Le Relais Impérial : wood-fired pizzas, grilled meats, or creative bistro-style cuisine, depending on your mood. Staying overnight? Choose a room with a terrace for breathtaking views of the hills. Take a look at the rooms and categories .

Practical tips for a successful day

Access and parking

• Recommended central parking areas: Cours Honoré-Cresp (convenient for the MIP) and Martelly. Follow the signs, as the historic center is partially pedestrianized.

• By train: Grasse station (TER), then shuttle/bus to the centre; allow 10–15 minutes uphill walk.

• By car from Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey: 15 minutes via the Route Napoléon, depending on traffic.

When to come to Grasse

• May–June: flowering of the centifolia rose, superb light, mild temperatures.

• Late summer: jasmine takes center stage; the Jasmine Festival traditionally takes place in early August.

• Winter: quiet museums and beautiful sunny days on the French Riviera.

Visit times and reservations

• MIP: 1–1.5 hours depending on your pace and the temporary exhibitions.

• Perfume workshop: book in advance (limited places, specific time slots).

• MIP Gardens: allow 45–60 minutes; check flowering times. For updates on opening hours and exhibitions, the Grasse Museums website is the reference.

Where to stay near Grasse for easy access to the surrounding area

Just 15 minutes from the perfume capital, nestled between the sea and the mountains, Le Relais Impérial offers a haven of peace on the Route Napoléon. With cozy rooms, some with terraces or bathtubs, on-site restaurants, and easy parking, it's the perfect place to explore Grasse without any hassle. Discover our rooms and offers , and remember to book directly for the best availability.

“Our mission: to welcome you as if you were at home and to make the Relais Impérial your favorite address in the Grasse region.”

Typical itineraries based on your preferences

Discovery program (classic)

• Old town and cathedral (1 hour)

• MIP (1h15)

• Perfume workshop (1 hour)

• Coffee break + petrol shopping (45 min)

• Sunset at Cours Honoré-Cresp (30 min)

Nature and scents program

• Old Town Express (45 min)

• MIP Gardens (1 hour)

• MIP or workshop (1–1.5 hours)

• A gentle stroll in the hills and a return to the tranquility of the Relais Impérial

Art and Heritage Programme

• Cathedral + alleyways (1 hour)

• Fragonard Museum (1 hour)

• MAHP (1 hour)

• Gourmet break, panoramic views and dinner at the hotel

FAQ

What can I do in Grasse in a morning when I'm in a hurry?

Focus on the old town, the cathedral, and the International Perfume Museum. Arrive early (before 9:30 a.m.), park on Cours Honoré-Cresp, walk down to Place aux Aires, then up to the cathedral, and finally to the MIP. You'll get a feel for the city's heritage, views, and fragrant soul in 2 to 3 hours. For lunch, you can head back up to Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey and enjoy the restaurants at Le Relais Impérial .

Which perfumery should I choose for a workshop: Fragonard, Molinard or Galimard?

All three workshops offer friendly sessions with varying formats and durations (generally 45 to 90 minutes). The choice depends on your availability and preferred style (materials, atmosphere, budget). Check the available time slots, minimum age for children, language requirements, and book early during peak season. Schedule the workshop after the MIP (International Workshop Program) to combine theory and practice, and then leave some time to relax.

How long does it take to visit the International Perfume Museum?

Allow 60 to 90 minutes to see the main attractions at a leisurely pace. Allow more time if you plan to read the information panels in detail or if a temporary exhibition interests you. Families may want to focus on the interactive sections to keep children engaged. Check opening hours, exhibitions, and any combined tickets with other museums on the Musées de Grasse website before your visit.

Where can I easily park in Grasse for a one-day visit?

The Cours Honoré-Cresp car park is the most convenient for the International Museum of Peculiar Heritage (MIP) and the historic center. Martelly is another option close to the shopping streets. In peak season, arrive before 10:00 am or in the late afternoon to avoid the crowds. The center is partly pedestrianized: leave your car in the car park; everything is within walking distance. If you are staying at Le Relais Impérial , you will enjoy easy access and a peaceful return after your visit.

Key points to remember

• Grasse can be visited very well in 1 day: old town, MIP, perfume workshop and pretty viewpoints.

• May–June and late summer are the most fragrant periods (roses, jasmine).

• Book the workshop in advance and check museum opening hours to optimize your time.

• Park at Cours Honoré-Cresp to explore the centre on foot.

• For a peaceful base 15 minutes away, Le Relais Impérial is the ideal address, with restaurants and cozy rooms.

• Fancy an extended stay? Check out the rooms and book directly here .