The best tips for French Riviera/Côte d'Azur |  Plan your French Riviera/Côte d'Azur trip

Grasse: World Capital of Perfume and Scenic Beauty

Nakafurano, 北海道, 日本, Lavande Wikivoyage page banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Nakafurano, 北海道, 日本, Lavande Wikivoyage page banner, CC BY-SA 3.0
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Grasse? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Grasse.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Grasse, located in the picturesque region of the French Riviera, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town's unique blend of historical charm and artistic flair. Known as the world's perfume capital, Grasse offers a sensory journey through its fragrant streets, where centuries-old traditions and modern creativity coexist. The town's architecture reflects its diverse past, with influences from various periods visible in its buildings and streets.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Grasse Perfumeries: ⭐ Grasse is considered the world's capital of perfume. Visitors can tour perfumeries like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. Distance in km: 0.09
2. Villa Fragonard: Once the home of the famous painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard, this villa is now a museum displaying his works, offering insight into the artistic heritage of Grasse. Distance in km: 0.1
3. Musée International de la Parfumerie: Located in Grasse, this museum is dedicated to the history of perfume, showcasing its importance in the region's cultural heritage. Distance in km: 0.12
4. Grasse Cathedral: A national monument of France, this cathedral houses remarkable works of art, including paintings by Rubens, and is a testament to the city's rich religious and architectural history. Distance in km: 0.28
5. Grasse Old Town: A picturesque and historic area with narrow winding streets, ancient buildings, and vibrant markets, offering a glimpse into the medieval history of Grasse. Distance in km: 0.29
6. Villa et Jardins de la Villa Noailles: An early modernist house in Hyères, known for its architectural significance and beautiful gardens. Distance in km: 1.06
7. Domaine de Manon: A family-run estate offering tours of its beautiful flower fields, including roses, jasmine, and lavender, crucial for the perfume industry, providing a direct experience of Grasse's agricultural landscape. Distance in km: 4.64
8. Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins: This museum in Mougins combines classical, neoclassical, and modern art, including works by Picasso, who spent his last years in the town. Distance in km: 8.7
9. La Croix des Gardes: A natural park in Cannes, offering some of the best views of the city and the bay, especially at sunset. Distance in km: 12.51
10. Notre-Dame de l'Espérance: A beautiful Gothic church in Cannes, offering serene interiors and stunning views over the city from its hilltop location. Distance in km: 13.87
11. Le Suquet: The old quarter of Cannes, offering narrow, winding streets, a historic atmosphere, and panoramic views over the bay. Distance in km: 13.97
12. Cannes Croisette: ⭐ ⭐ The famous waterfront avenue in Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival, luxury shops, and sandy beaches. Distance in km: 14.12
13. Gorges du Loup: A beautiful river canyon in the hinterlands of Nice, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Distance in km: 17.19
14. Fort Carré: A 16th-century fort in Antibes, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. Distance in km: 18.21
15. Massif de l'Esterel: ⭐ A volcanic mountain range with dramatic landscapes, offering hiking, biking, and stunning views of the Mediterranean. Distance in km: 18.24
16. Juan-les-Pins: A popular resort town known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and the annual Jazz à Juan festival. Distance in km: 18.27
17. Cagnes-sur-Mer: Home to the Renoir Museum, this seaside town also boasts a medieval village and castle with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Distance in km: 18.35
18. Antibes Old Town: ⭐ The charming old town of Antibes, with its narrow cobblestone streets, bustling market, and the Picasso Museum. Distance in km: 18.59
19. Picasso Museum, Antibes: Housed in the Château Grimaldi, this museum features a substantial collection of Picasso's works, showcasing his time in Antibes. Distance in km: 18.74
20. Lérins Islands: ⭐ ⭐ A group of four Mediterranean islands off the French Riviera, known for their natural beauty, history, and tranquility. Distance in km: 19.14
21. Île Saint-Honorat: One of the Lérins Islands, known for its Cistercian monastery, ancient ruins, and vineyards. Distance in km: 19.51
22. Garoupe Lighthouse: An iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Cap d'Antibes and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. Distance in km: 19.97
23. Cap d'Antibes: A lush peninsula known for its walking trails, beautiful beaches, and the famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Distance in km: 20.61
24. Phoenix Parc Floral de Nice: A botanical garden and zoo in Nice, featuring a large greenhouse with tropical plants and various animal species. Distance in km: 24.04
25. Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Nice: The largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia, known for its stunning architecture and religious art. Distance in km: 27.29
26. Promenade des Anglais: ⭐ ⭐ A world-famous walkway along the Mediterranean, offering stunning sea views and lined with palm trees. Distance in km: 28.23
27. Place Masséna: The main square in Nice, known for its distinctive checkerboard paving, vibrant atmosphere, and the beautiful Fontaine du Soleil. Distance in km: 28.48
28. Marc Chagall National Museum: ⭐ Located in Nice, this museum is dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, focusing on his religious and spiritual themes. Distance in km: 28.69
29. Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice): ⭐ ⭐ The historic heart of Nice, filled with narrow winding streets, colorful markets, and traditional restaurants. Distance in km: 29.04
30. La Colline du Château: Overlooking Nice, this hill offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Angels, along with a waterfall and remnants of old fortifications. Distance in km: 29.18
31. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC): Located in Nice, MAMAC displays a significant collection of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Distance in km: 29.18
32. Matisse Museum: Located in Nice, this museum houses a large collection of works by Henri Matisse, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Distance in km: 29.36
33. Port of Nice: The picturesque port of Nice is a vibrant area filled with boats, surrounded by colorful buildings, and offers a variety of dining options. Distance in km: 29.61
34. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: ⭐ ⭐ A beautiful villa and garden with stunning views of the Mediterranean, showcasing nine different themed gardens. Distance in km: 33.08
35. Cap Ferrat: One of the most prestigious locations on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious villas, beautiful gardens, and walking paths along the coast. Distance in km: 33.35
36. Villa Kerylos: ⭐ A unique villa in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, built in the style of an ancient Greek palace, with fascinating architecture and sea views. Distance in km: 33.62
37. Paloma Beach: A picturesque and exclusive beach on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, offering clear waters and a tranquil setting. Distance in km: 34.06
38. Eze Village: ⭐ ⭐ A stunning hilltop medieval village with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, known for its beauty and perfume factories. Distance in km: 36.32
39. Corniche Roads: The three Corniche roads offer some of the most spectacular driving routes along the French Riviera, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and coastal towns. Distance in km: 36.86
40. Trophy of Augustus: An ancient Roman monument in La Turbie, built to celebrate Emperor Augustus's victory over the Alpine tribes, offering stunning views of Monaco. Distance in km: 39.89
41. Cathedral of Monaco: ⭐ The resting place of Monaco's princes, this cathedral is known for its Roman-Byzantine style architecture and its historic significance. Distance in km: 41.17
42. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: ⭐ A museum of marine sciences in Monaco-Ville. It's famous for its extensive collection of marine fauna and its aquariums. Distance in km: 41.42
43. Monaco Monte-Carlo: ⭐ ⭐ The glamorous district of Monaco, famous for its casino, luxury shops, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Distance in km: 41.71
44. Menton's Gardens: ⭐ ⭐ Menton is renowned for its gardens, such as the Serre de la Madone and the Jardin Botanique Exotique Val Rahmeh, showcasing exotic plants and stunning landscapes. Distance in km: 49.59

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Grasse, nestled in the hills of the French Riviera, offers a serene escape from the bustling coastal cities. Known for its rich history in perfumery, the town is surrounded by lush landscapes and fragrant gardens. Visitors can expect a tranquil atmosphere with opportunities to explore nature, enjoy leisurely strolls, and immerse themselves in the region's aromatic heritage.

1. Jardin des Plantes de Grasse: A botanical garden showcasing a variety of Mediterranean plants.

The Jardin des Plantes de Grasse is a beautiful botanical garden that offers visitors a chance to explore a wide array of Mediterranean flora. The garden is well-maintained and provides a peaceful environment for a leisurely stroll. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant colors and scents of the plants, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.

Type: garden | Fee: free
2. Parc Naturel Régional des Préalpes d'Azur: A vast natural park offering stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.

The Parc Naturel Régional des Préalpes d'Azur is a protected area that spans over 90,000 hectares, offering breathtaking landscapes that include mountains, forests, and rivers. It is an ideal destination for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the diverse flora and fauna. The park provides numerous trails and paths for all levels of hikers, and it's a perfect spot for those who love outdoor adventures and nature.

Type: green_area | Fee: free
3. Domaine de Manon: A private garden known for its exquisite roses and perfume plants.

Domaine de Manon is a family-owned estate that specializes in growing roses and other aromatic plants used in the perfume industry. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the cultivation of these plants and the process of making perfume. The garden is particularly known for its beautiful rose fields, which are a sight to behold, especially during the blooming season.

Type: garden | Fee: varies depending on the tour
4. Les Jardins du Musée International de la Parfumerie: Gardens that complement the Perfume Museum with aromatic plants.

Located near the International Perfume Museum, these gardens feature a variety of plants used in the fragrance industry. Visitors can explore different sections dedicated to various aromatic plants, offering an educational experience on the origins of perfume ingredients. The gardens are beautifully landscaped, providing a serene setting for visitors to enjoy.

Type: garden | Fee: included with museum ticket

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Office de Tourisme Pays de Grasse (Cours)

Tourist information center

Address: 24 Cr Honoré Cresp, 06130 Grasse, France
2. Tourist Office Country De Grasse

Tourist information center

Address: 18 Pl. aux Aires, 06130 Grasse, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Grasse?

Grasse offers a variety of mobility options to explore its charming streets and surrounding areas. The city's layout makes it accessible for both pedestrians and those using public transportation. Walking is a popular choice for visitors who wish to enjoy the historic center and its attractions at a leisurely pace. Public transportation and ride-sharing services provide additional convenience for reaching destinations beyond the city center.

In Grasse, the historic center is pedestrian-friendly, with many areas designated for walking, allowing visitors to explore its narrow streets and picturesque squares. Local bus services, operated by Sillages, connect Grasse with nearby towns and key points of interest, offering a practical way to travel around the region. While there is no metro system, buses are frequent and reliable. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, providing flexible transportation options. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are accessible, and the town's surroundings offer scenic routes for exploration. Practical tips include checking bus schedules in advance, especially on weekends, and wearing comfortable shoes for walking in the hilly terrain.