What to visit near Grasse

What to visit in Grasse: the must-sees and hidden gems to explore around the world capital of perfume.

Looking for things to see near Grasse, whether you have a few hours or several days to explore? Here's a clear and comprehensive guide to enjoying historic perfume factories, hilltop villages, the landscapes of the Prealps of the French Riviera, and Mediterranean getaways. Just 15 minutes from Grasse, Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is an ideal base for easily exploring the region between the sea and the mountains.

In short

• Must-sees in Grasse: old town, cathedral, perfume museums and visits to the major perfume houses.

• Surrounding area: hilltop villages (Gourdon, Tourrettes-sur-Loup), gorges and wild plateaus of the Prealps of the French Riviera.

• Sea and culture in 30–45 min: Cannes, Antibes, Biot, museums and beaches.

• 1-3 day trip idea: one day in Grasse, one day villages/nature, one day French Riviera.

• A convenient and welcoming base near Grasse: Le Relais Impérial , on the Route Napoléon.

Must-sees in Grasse

Old town, cathedral and panoramic views

Wander through the medieval maze, between colorful alleyways, small squares, and arcades. The Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral (13th century) houses works by Rubens and Fragonard. Climb up to Place du 24-Août or the Clock Tower for a panoramic view stretching across the plain to the sea on a clear day. Allow 2 to 3 hours for a walking tour, taking in the artisan shops and outdoor cafes.

Museums and major perfumeries

Grasse is the world capital of perfume. The International Perfume Museum traces the history of fragrances, from ancient civilizations to contemporary perfumery, with a carefully curated educational and olfactory presentation. Information, exhibitions, and opening hours can be found on the Grasse Museums website . The historic perfume houses (Fragonard, Molinard, Galimard) generally offer free guided tours of their workshops and mini-factories, as well as workshops where you can create your own eau de toilette. Book in advance during peak season to avoid waiting.

Gardens, flower fields and fragrant celebrations

In the warmer months, the Grasse region is illuminated by May roses and jasmine, cultivated for the grand houses. Educational gardens and flower estates open their doors periodically. Two highlights in the city are ExpoRose in the spring (May) and the Jasmine Festival (early August), which celebrate Grasse's floral heritage.

Hilltop villages and heritage around Grasse

Gourdon, balcony overlooking the Riviera

Listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Gourdon sits atop a rocky spur, offering 360° views of the French Riviera. Stone alleyways, artisan workshops, a castle, and terraced gardens create a picture-perfect setting. Learn more on the official Most Beautiful Villages – Gourdon page. Combine your visit with the nearby Gorges du Loup.

Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey and the Napoleon Route

Located on the legendary Route Napoléon (N85), Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is an ideal starting point between Grasse and the Prealps. Its village square, hiking trails, caves, and limestone plateaus invite you to take a break. The authentic character and gentle altitude offer a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of the coast.

Tourrettes-sur-Loup, Valbonne, Saint-Paul de Vence

• Tourrettes-sur-Loup, city of the violet, seduces with its medieval belt on a rocky spur and its art workshops.

• Valbonne has preserved a rare grid plan in Provence and a renowned market on Fridays.

• Saint-Paul de Vence combines ramparts, art foundations and galleries (arrive early to avoid the crowds).

Nature and outdoor activities in the Prealps of the French Riviera

Gorges du Loup, waterfalls and swimming

The Gorges du Loup offer turquoise waters, pools, the Saut du Loup waterfall (accessible by car), and canyoning spots for the more adventurous. In hot weather, set off early and respect local regulations (water flow limits, temporary closures, parking). Closed-toe shoes are recommended.

Plateaus, caves and viewpoints

To the north, the Caussols plateau unfolds with alpine meadows, sinkholes, and exceptional starry skies—a paradise for hikers and photographers. The Saint-Cézaire caves (guided tours available) reveal enchanting concretions and underground chambers. In winter, family-friendly resorts like Audibergue offer skiing and sledding, depending on snow conditions.

Prealps of the French Riviera Regional Natural Park

The park's boundaries encompass gentle mountains, forests, and cliffs, boasting remarkable flora and fauna. Find out about marked trails, conservation regulations, and nature news on the official website of the Préalpes d'Azur Regional Natural Park .

Local tip: when the mistral wind is blowing, visibility is exceptional from the viewpoints (Gourdon, Caussols). Bring a light sweater even in summer.

Sea and culture escapes in less than an hour

Cannes and the Esterel

To the west, Cannes blends the Croisette, the Lérins Islands (frequent boat trips) and the old Suquet district. For red landscapes plunging into the sea, head towards the Esterel Massif and the Corniche d'Or: coves, coastal paths and breathtaking views at sunset.

Antibes, Biot and the artisanal Mediterranean

Antibes charms with its ramparts, the Vauban port, and the Picasso Museum. In Biot, the tradition of glassblowing can be discovered in workshops and boutiques; the old town, steep and flower-filled, is well worth a stroll. Depending on the season, alternate mornings with cultural activities and afternoons at the beach to avoid the hottest hours.

Recommended itineraries (1 to 3 days)

Day 1: Perfume Essentials + Balcony by the Sea

• Morning: Old town of Grasse and perfume museum.

• Lunch: bistronomic lunch or wood-fired pizza in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey.

• Afternoon: Gourdon and the Loup gorges (viewpoints and waterfalls).

2 days: Scents, villages and nature

• Day 1: Visit to a perfumery + workshops, stroll in Grasse, sunset on the coast.

• Day 2: Tourrettes-sur-Loup and Valbonne, walk on the Caussols plateau.

3 days: French Riviera and Pre-Alps

• Add Cannes (Lérins Islands) or Antibes (museums), then the caves of Saint-Cézaire or the Monts d'Azur reserve in Thorenc for a wild touch (bison, Przewalski's horses, booking recommended).

Where to settle near Grasse

Just 15 minutes from the old town, Le Relais Impérial is a haven of peace nestled between the sea and the mountains. Cozy rooms, some with terraces and views, and two complementary dining options: a bistro-style restaurant and a wood-fired pizzeria. Parking, a location on the Route Napoléon, and the warm welcome from Marion and Alice make it an ideal base.

• View categories and availability: rooms and suites

• Preparing your stay (restaurants, parking, opening hours): hotel services

• Book your dates directly: secure booking engine

• Planning a private or professional event? Spaces and support

Practical tips for visiting the Pays de Grasse

• Best time: April-June (flowers and mild weather) and September-October (ideal light and temperatures). July-August: early morning and late afternoon are best.

• Getting around: cars make it easy to connect villages and natural sites; carpooling and regional buses exist but are less flexible in the mountains.

• Parking: car parks at the entrance to hilltop villages; allow a few minutes' walk.

• Weather: possible summer thunderstorms in the late afternoon in the Pre-Alps; check the forecasts before hiking.

• Local information (markets, events, shuttles): consult the Pays de Grasse tourist office .

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Grasse and its surroundings?

Spring (April-June) is ideal for roses and jasmine blooms, mild weather, and long days. Autumn (September-October) offers perfect temperatures, golden light, and fewer crowds. In summer, set off early, and prioritize visiting perfumeries in the late morning and exploring natural sites in the early morning or late afternoon. Winter is calm and bright, with the possibility of a snowshoeing trip to the Audibergue area, depending on snow conditions.

Is it possible to visit perfume shops in Grasse for free?

Yes, major perfume houses frequently offer free guided tours of their workshops or mini-factories, with explanations of distillation, enfleurage, and blending. Book in advance during peak season to guarantee a time slot and arrive 10 minutes before departure. Composition workshops (creating your own fragrance) are generally fee-based and require registration. Check the conditions and schedule the day before your visit.

What to do in Grasse when it rains?

Perfume museums are perfect for a cloudy day: exhibitions, historical bottles, and olfactory experiences. Add a visit to a perfume house, followed by a break in a café in the old town. Depending on the intensity of the rain, you can also explore the caves of Saint-Cézaire (guided tours are available indoors). Finally, enjoy a comforting lunch in Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey before continuing your sightseeing in the afternoon.

Which villages around Grasse can be visited in a day without too much driving?

Combine Gourdon (panoramic views and local crafts) with Tourrettes-sur-Loup (old stone town and art studios), then finish with Valbonne (central square, cafes, market if it's on a Friday). This itinerary minimizes transfers and maximizes your time in each location. If you're an art lover, replace Valbonne with Saint-Paul de Vence, which is very popular in summer: arrive early and use the parking lots at the village entrance.

Where to stay to easily explore the area between the sea and the mountains without traffic jams?

In Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey, Le Relais Impérial offers quick access to Grasse, the Prealps of the French Riviera, and the Côte d'Azur, while avoiding the hustle and bustle of city life. Quiet rooms, terraces, two on-site restaurants, and parking make planning easy. Check availability on the Rooms page or contact the team for personalized advice via the Contact page .

Key points to remember

• Grasse: old town, cathedral, museums and perfume houses, the heart of a successful stay.

• Surrounding area: hilltop villages (Gourdon, Tourrettes), Loup gorges and the plateaus of the Prealps of the French Riviera.

• Sea very close: Cannes, Antibes and Lérins Islands in less than an hour.

• Ready-made itineraries for 1 to 3 days to optimize your time.

• Ideal base: Le Relais Impérial , charming, calm and excellent food for exploring the region.

• Ready to take action? Check the dates and prices on the booking engine and start planning your getaway.