What to visit in Grasse in 2025

What to visit in Grasse: discover in 2025 the must-sees, perfume experiences and the most beautiful detours around the world capital of perfume.

Between heritage, historic perfumeries and preserved nature, here is a clear and practical guide to visiting Grasse in 1, 2 or 3 days, with itineraries, practical advice and good addresses nearby.

In short

• The essentials 2025: old town, MIP (International Perfume Museum), cathedral, perfumeries (visits and workshops).

• Ready-made itineraries for 1, 2 or 3 days, with ideas for gourmet breaks and panoramic views.

• Experiences to book early: perfume creation workshops, ExpoRose (May) and Jasminade (August).

• Nature and viewpoints: Siagne Canal, Caussols Plateau, hilltop villages (Gourdon).

• Staying near Grasse: peace and easy access from a charming hotel on the Route Napoléon.

Must-see attractions in Grasse in 2025

Old town, narrow streets and cathedral

The historic heart of Grasse, a maze of colorful alleyways and elegant townhouses, is best explored on foot. Start at Place aux Aires, then head towards Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral (13th century), which houses paintings attributed to Rubens and beautiful works by Fragonard. Take time to admire the ochre facades, vaulted passageways, and fountains, all testaments to the town's past wealth linked to perfume.

Photo tip: in the late afternoon, the golden light enhances the pastel tones of the facades and the panoramas over the bay of Cannes.

International Perfume Museum (MIP)

A leading institution, the MIP tells the story of perfume, from ancient ointments to contemporary creations, through immersive displays and an exceptional collection. It's the essential visit to understand why Grasse has become the world capital of perfume. Check out the temporary exhibitions and book your tickets on the Musées de Grasse website .

Perfume expertise listed by UNESCO

Since 2018, the perfume-making skills of the Grasse region (cultivation of perfume plants, knowledge of raw materials, and composition) have been inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list. This recognition highlights the unique character of the region and its local crafts. Learn more on the UNESCO fact sheet, which details the inscription and its safeguarding criteria.

Historic perfumeries and olfactory workshops

Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard offer free guided tours of their factories and museums, as well as workshops where you can create your own eau de parfum (reservations required). In 60 to 120 minutes, you'll discover the different fragrance families, "blend" your essences, and leave with your personalized bottle. These sessions fill up quickly during peak season, so book 2 to 3 weeks in advance.

MIP gardens and perfume plants

In the Mouans-Sartoux plain, the MIP Gardens showcase the emblematic species of the Grasse region (centifolia rose, grandiflorum jasmine, tuberose, orange tree, lavender). Flowering varies with the seasons: roses in spring, jasmine in summer. An ideal outing to combine botany, fragrance, and photography.

Art and Heritage Museums

• Museum of Art and History of Provence (MAHP): decorative arts and Provençal traditions.

• Fragonard Museum (Hôtel de Villeneuve): works by Jean-Honoré Fragonard and 18th-century artists.

• Jean-Honoré Fragonard Villa-Museum (themed visits, according to the program). Check current opening hours and exhibitions via the Grasse Museums website .

Tour itineraries: 1, 2 or 3 days

1 day in Grasse

• Morning: old town, cathedral and panorama from Cours Honoré Cresp.

• Late morning: MIP (1:30–2:00).

• Lunch: local cuisine on the terrace.

• Afternoon: visit to a perfumery + discovery workshop (if available) or MIP Gardens.

• End of day: leisurely shopping (soaps, candles, essences), artisanal ice cream.

2 days in Grasse

Day 1 identical. Day 2: - Morning: easy hike along the Siagne Canal (marked, shaded sections). - Lunch: picnic or local bistro. - Afternoon: MAHP (Museum of Art and History) and Fragonard Museum, narrow streets and art galleries. - Evening: sunset from a viewpoint towards Cabris or Magagnosc.

3 days and surroundings

• Morning: excursion to Gourdon, a hilltop village with sea-mountain views.

• Lunch: country-style meal with local produce.

• Afternoon: Caussols plateau and astronomy (according to program), or return for a “Grand Perfumer” workshop.

• Scenic route: the legendary Route Napoléon offers superb views between the sea and the Pre-Alps.

Experiences not to be missed

Perfume creation workshops

Choose a "discovery" (1 hour) or "master perfumer" (2+ hours) format. It's a lasting memory and an excellent gift. Families can often participate, with options suitable for children (check the minimum age). If you are sensitive to scents, opt for the early morning hours when your sense of smell is freshest.

Holidays and events 2025

• ExpoRose (May): the city is adorned with tens of thousands of roses, with entertainment and markets.

• Jasminade (August): parades, music and celebration of jasmine.

• Christmas markets (December): local specialties and crafts. Dates vary each year: consult the cultural calendar on the official city or museum websites to plan your visit.

Nature: Prealps of the French Riviera, Siagne River and grand panoramas

The Pays de Grasse region is a gateway to the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park: karst plateaus, valleys, olive groves, and views of the sea and mountains. For detailed hiking ideas, maps, and difficulty levels, see the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park website . For summer respite, the shaded trails around the Siagne River are perfect on hot days.

Where to stay near Grasse: charm and tranquility at the Relais Impérial

Located in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, 15 minutes from Grasse, Le Relais Impérial is an ideal base between the sea and the mountains, on the Route Napoléon. The hotel combines authenticity, tranquility, and a warm welcome, with two restaurants (a bistro-style restaurant and a wood-fired pizzeria) and lovely terraces. Discover the spirit of the establishment on the homepage .

• Rooms: 28 rooms in 5 categories, some with terrace or bathtub, designed for couples, families or business travelers. See rooms .

• Food and services: excellent breakfast, seasonal cuisine and a pizzeria/grill area. More information about our services .

• Events: weddings, birthdays, seminars, modular spaces and customized support. Learn more about event planning .

Good to know: book directly to guarantee the best choice of rooms and current offers.

For your dates, please consult the secure booking platform .

Practical advice for 2025

Best time to visit

Spring (April-June) and late autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and blooms (May roses, then jasmine in summer). In July and August, opt for morning visits and shady spots. In winter, the crowds thin out and the light is superb.

Access and travel

• By car: A8 (Cannes/Grasse exits), then the main road towards the centre. The Route Napoléon connects the coast to the Prealps via Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey.

• Train: TER to Grasse from Cannes/Nice, then bus to the historic centre.

• On foot: the old town is easy to get around; bring comfortable shoes (cobblestones, stairs).

Reservations and tickets

• Museums and perfume workshops: plan ahead during peak season, especially weekends and holidays.

• Events: some activities are free, others require registration; check the schedule on the Grasse Museums website .

• Accommodation: to optimize budget and comfort, book early via our live search engine.

Respect for the environment and climate

Mediterranean climate, often sunny but with the possibility of thunderstorms. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen. In gardens and along paths, respect designated picking areas and local signage; the terroir of aromatic plants is part of a living heritage recognized by UNESCO.

FAQ

How much time should I allow for visiting Grasse?

One day is enough for a first glimpse (old town + MIP + a perfumery). Two days allow you to add the MIP Gardens, a scent workshop, and an art museum. Over three days, explore the surrounding area as well (Gourdon, Caussols, the Siagne Canal). The aim is to combine city, heritage, and nature, taking breaks during the hottest hours, especially in summer.

Which are the best perfume shops to visit and do you need to book in advance?

Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard offer free, highly informative guided tours of their factories/museums. For a creative workshop, booking is strongly recommended, especially on weekends, holidays, and from May to August. Workshops range from 1 to 2+ hours, depending on your skill level and budget. Arrive 10 minutes early to make the most of your workshop.

Can we see the fields of roses and jasmine near Grasse?

The crops are still cultivated, but the plots are private and scattered. You can see the fragrant plants up close in the MIP Gardens (educational) and at events like ExpoRose (May). The centifolia rose blooms in spring, jasmine in summer. Stay on the marked trails and respect local farms.

What to do in Grasse when it rains?

Opt for indoor visits: the International Perfume Museum (MIP), the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAHP), the Fragonard Museum, and perfume factories (guided tours and workshops are available). Take the opportunity to delve deeper into the history of perfume, try a perfume composition workshop, and then treat yourself to a delicious break in a tea room. The narrow streets remain charming even in the rain, but be sure to wear non-slip shoes.

Where to stay near Grasse to also enjoy nature?

Choose a peaceful retreat on the Route Napoléon, nestled between the sea and the Prealps, just 15 minutes from Grasse. The Relais Impérial in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey offers comfortable rooms, two restaurants, and direct access to panoramic views and hiking trails. For personalized advice and availability, please don't hesitate to contact us .

Key points to remember

• The world capital of perfume, Grasse, can be explored through museums, perfumeries and medieval alleyways.

• In 2 days, combine MIP, olfactory workshop, MIP Gardens and views of the French Riviera.

• 2025: book your workshops early and keep an eye on ExpoRose (May) and the Jasminade (August).

• Superb nature detours: Siagne Canal, Caussols, hilltop villages.

• Enjoy a peaceful stay, 15 minutes from Grasse, on the Route Napoléon, at the Relais Impérial.

• Ready to plan? Discover the house and book directly on the Relais Impérial website .