What to visit in Grasse in 2 days

What to see and do in Grasse in 2 days: the essential sights and experiences. Discover a ready-made itinerary that combines the old town, legendary perfumeries, museums, Pre-Alpine landscapes and hilltop villages, with practical advice and reliable addresses to make the most of your short stay.

In short

• Day 1: Old town, cathedral, International Perfume Museum, visit to a factory (workshop possible).

• Day 2: panoramas and nature (Gourdon, Gorges du Loup or caves), gardens and last museums.

• Ideal base 15 minutes from Grasse: Le Relais Impérial, calm and strategic on the Route Napoléon.

• Key tips: book perfume workshops, favor morning and late afternoon for the old town, wear comfortable shoes.

• Bonus: combine with Cannes/Antibes if you have a few extra hours.

Day 1 – Old Grasse and great perfumes

Morning – Dive into the historic heart

Start in the old town, a maze of medieval alleyways leading to the Place aux Aires and Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral. Stroll under the arcades, admire the ochre facades and fountains, then take a photo break from the viewpoints. If you're interested in local history, the Museum of Art and History of Provence sheds light on the evolution of the Grasse region through decorative arts and traditions.

Consult the map, schedules and practical information at the Pays de Grasse Tourist Office to adapt your visits to the day and season: Pays de Grasse Tourist Office .

Local tip: The light is superb early in the morning in the narrow streets of the old town. Arrive before the crowds to enjoy a more intimate Grasse.

Lunchtime – Lunch on the terrace

When the sun is high, choose a sheltered terrace in a shaded alleyway or on a lively little square. Provençal cuisine, fragrant salads, socca, or focaccia pair perfectly with a glass of rosé from Provence. Leave some time for the afternoon, dedicated to savoring the aromas.

Afternoon – The DNA of Grasse: museums and factories

Head to the International Perfume Museum (MIP), a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history of perfume from antiquity to the present day. Collections, perfume organs, historical bottles, and temporary exhibitions help explain why Grasse's perfume-making expertise was inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2018. Information, tickets, and current exhibitions: International Perfume Museum .

Continue your visit with a tour of a renowned perfume house (Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard) to discover distillation, modern enfleurage, and perfume composition. Numerous "create your own perfume" workshops are offered; reservations are recommended during peak season. The Tourist Office centralizes information on available offers and time slots: practical information and reservations .

Evening – Dinner and quiet night, 15 minutes away

After a day filled with fragrant aromas, unwind in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, on the legendary Route Napoléon. Just 15 minutes from Grasse, Le Relais Impérial offers a tranquil setting between the sea and the mountains, ideal for recharging your batteries. Settle into a cozy room with a view of the hills or a relaxing bathtub: discover the categories and availability here: rooms and suites .

For dining, choose between bistronomic cuisine showcasing local produce, or the wood-fired pizzeria for a convivial experience. See services and opening hours: restaurants and amenities .

Day 2 – Hilltop villages, panoramas and gardens

Morning – Wide open spaces: Gourdon, Gorges du Loup or caves

For a change of scenery, head towards the landscapes of the Prealps of the French Riviera. Gourdon, listed among the most beautiful hilltop villages, offers incredible views of the Mediterranean and the Loup Valley. The Gorges du Loup will delight those who love scenic drives, waterfalls, and refreshing breaks. An alternative for warmer weather or for families: the caves of Saint-Cézaire-sur-Siagne, with their spectacular rock formations and natural coolness.

To prepare your trails, viewpoints and picnic areas, the Regional Natural Park of the Prealps of the French Riviera is a reliable resource: PNR Préalpes d'Azur.

Good to know: On winding roads, plan safe scenic stops and leave early for photos without backlighting.

Lunch – Picnic or country table

Depending on your itinerary, choose between a picnic with local products (cheeses, fougasse, seasonal fruits) or a country inn. Provençal markets (depending on the day) are perfect for sampling local flavors.

Afternoon – Gardens, art and final visits

On your return to Grasse, complete your immersion with a visit to the gardens (in season), such as the Jardins du MIP in Mouans-Sartoux, where fragrant plants and essences typical of the Grasse region are cultivated. The museums dedicated to Fragonard and Provençal art offer a pleasant cultural interlude to conclude your stay. See the museums' website for exhibitions and access information: Musées de Grasse .

End of the day – Route Napoléon and evening at the Relais

Conclude your journey with a detour along the Route Napoléon, which connects the Alps to the Mediterranean and passes through Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey. A landmark of history and beautiful landscapes, it is one of France's iconic road trips: Route Napoléon – information . In the evening, return to the comfort and conviviality of the Relais Impérial , where the family history and warm welcome from Marion and Alice can be discovered here: the spirit of the house .

Practical tips for making the most of 48 hours in Grasse

• Best time to visit: April-June and September-October offer mild temperatures, blooming flowers (May roses, jasmine in summer), and moderate crowds. In July-August, opt for visits in the morning and late afternoon.

• Getting around: the historic center is best explored on foot. Park in the car parks around the old town and wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone streets).

• Reservations: perfume creation workshops and guided tours of factories fill up quickly; plan ahead via the tourist office and official websites.

• Strategically located: 15 minutes from the city center, the Relais Impérial combines quick access to Grasse, the tranquility of the Prealps, and comprehensive services (two restaurants, terraces, parking). For private or professional events, see the dedicated spaces: on-site events .

• Seaside: if you have an extra half-day, Cannes and Antibes are within driving distance; combine scents, beaches and historic ports.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Grasse in 2 days?

Spring (April to June) and late autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit. Temperatures are pleasant, the light is beautiful for photography, and the crowds are less intense than in the height of summer. In May and June, the Centifolia rose blooms throughout the region, and some growers open their doors for special occasions. In summer, plan your visits for early morning and late afternoon, save museums and workshops for the hottest hours, and book any guided tours in advance.

How do I visit a perfumery in Grasse? Do I need to book in advance?

The major perfume houses offer regular guided tours, often free, and paid perfume-making workshops. In the off-season, you can sometimes register on the day, but during school holidays and the summer, online booking is strongly recommended. Allow 45 to 90 minutes for a tour and 1 to 2 hours for a workshop. Check which languages are offered and the minimum age for children. The Tourist Office has a central directory of schedules and useful contact information.

What to do in Grasse when it rains?

Take advantage of the indoor spaces: the International Perfume Museum, composition workshops, art museums, the cathedral, and perfumers' houses. You can also arrange a tasting of local products or a themed guided tour on the history of perfume. The Saint-Cézaire caves are another sheltered option. Remember to book your time slots the day before, especially on weekends, and keep a compact umbrella handy for moving between sites.

What are some ideas for nature walks near Grasse?

The Gorges du Loup offer scenic drives and waterfalls, Gourdon charms visitors with its 360° views and preserved alleyways, and the Prealps of the French Riviera are full of easy trails for families. For a refreshing escape, choose the caves of Saint-Cézaire; for fragrant plants, the themed gardens (seasonal) make a perfect addition to any itinerary. Consult the Prealps of the French Riviera Regional Natural Park for route ideas and best environmental practices.

Key points to remember

• In 48 hours, combine the old town, MIP, perfume factory and a nature getaway.

• Book workshops and guided tours in advance, especially during peak season.

• The Relais Impérial, 15 minutes from Grasse, is the ideal base between sea and mountains.

• Enjoy the two on-site restaurants for evenings without having to travel.

• For a wedding or seminar, the modular spaces on site simplify the organization.

• Ready to plan? Check availability and current offers: book your stay at Relais Impérial .