11 Best Things To Do In Grasse, France

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Grasse is the world’s renowned perfume center, and perfume is one of France’s most luxurious exports.

Grasse, which is located on the Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, is rich in history and culture, which you can learn more about through their museums, as well as bits of nature and adventure.

Here are some of the top things to do in Grasse, France, to make the most of your visit to this attractive old town.

11 Best Things To Do In Grasse, France

1. Explore the Old Town of Grasse

Grasse’s Old Town is a touch rural in sections, but undeniably seductive, when compared to several French cities in the south.

One of the best things to do in Grasse is to take a stroll around its historic streets. The Old Town’s main attraction is Rue Jean Ossola, from which many stairways and passageways branch off.

A walk down Rue Amiral de Grasse from Aux Aires is also a must-do. You can indulge in some shopping while walking around the artisan shops, boutiques, and antique dealers.

2. Explore Domain de la Royrie

The Domaine de la Royrie is one of the best places to visit in Grasse. This area features a medieval garden and olive groves that visitors can explore.

Founded in the early 15th century by monks from the abbey of Lerins, this place will undoubtedly give you an insight into life during those times.

Apart from the guided tour, the farm shop is a good place to visit if you want to buy olive oil, books, or other locally produced items to take home.

3. See the Notre Dame De Puy

When visiting Grasse, the Notre Dame de Puy is a must-see. It is the town’s 12th-century cathedral, which is located in the historic district. Though the façade appears a touch boring, it has a luxurious interior that has paintings by Fragonard and the great Baroque artist Rubens.

After your visit here, wander to the small plot of grass at Traverse St Martin. From this perspective, you may get a good view of both New and Old Grasse.

4. Learn about perfumery at Musée International de la Parfumerie

Grasse is the cradle of French perfumery, and many of the scents’ basic elements are grown on nearby flower farms. May rose, jasmine, orange blossom, and violet are some of the flowering plants featured in the Musée International de la Parfumerie.

One of the best things to do in Grasse is a visit to this museum. It showcases the art and science that goes into Grasse’s scents, which have been refined over generations.

Here, you will learn about the town’s perfume history and how it is linked to past trade and works such as the Siagne Canal.

5. Tour Parfumerie Fragonard

The Parfumerie Fragonard offers a free tour, where visitors can supplement their knowledge gained at Grasse’s perfume museum. They can also observe how scents are bottled and distilled.

A vast emporium is also located here, where a variety of items can be purchased. Visitors can also sign up for a Fragonard class if they wish to learn more about perfumes in preparation.

6. Admire Jean-honoré Fragnonard Paintings 

Jean-Honoré Fragonard, one of the most romantic Rococo artists, was born in Grasse. His work was notable for its mastery, liveliness, and hedonistic nature. 

The Jean-Honore Fragonard Villa-Museum, which is housed in a lovely 1600s villa near the Fragonard Perfume factory, has about 12 of Fragonard’s paintings on show. His work, the provocative “The Swing.” is a must-see for its stunning details. 

7. Learn How to Make Perfume 

Grasse has workshops that teach the skill of perfume manufacturing. A professional perfumer will guide guests through the creative process of creating their perfume in each class.

Taking a perfume class is easily one of the best things to do in Grasse and those who do leave home with the perfume they created. It is recommended that visitors schedule their classes ahead of time.

The Fragonard Perfume Workshop and Molinard Design Your Own Fragrance are two of the best options for perfume classes.

8. Walk Through the Lavender Fields

 

 

 

 

 

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Grasse is located in Provence’s lavender-growing region, which makes it an ideal place for lavender field tours during summer.

To find out where to go and visit the magnificent lavender fields, visit the Provence website for the road map. You can also visit the lavender museum, and certain distilleries and farms may offer tours.

9. Buy Cheese at  La Nouvelle Cremerie

If you enjoy cheese and all things dairy, La Nouvelle Cremerie in Chateauneuf de Grasse is a great place to visit Grasse. They have a large variety of artisanal dairy products.

Fresh eggs, as well as Italian and French cheeses, yogurts, and even butter, are available at the shop.

The shop is a local favorite that attracts travelers regularly. When you buy from La Nouvelle Cremerie, you’re guaranteed freshness, and you’re also helping farmers and producers in the neighborhood.

10. Have a taste of Provencal cuisine

 

 

 

 

 

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A lunch or dinner in one of the local restaurants is a must-do in Grasse.

The Michelin-starred La Bastide St-Antoine, located in the 5-star La Bastide St-Antoine Hotel, is a great place to go for outstanding Provençal food. To guarantee a table, be sure to make a reservation in advance.

Lougolin Restaurant is another excellent option, with seasonal menus, panoramic views, and regional specialties like warm zucchini flowers packed with ricotta, basil, and tomato tartare.

11. Take a day trip to the village of Gourdon

This is not exactly in Grasse but Gourdon is less than 20 minutes away by bus and it can be done in half day or full day trip.

The village of Gourdon, perched on a magnificent cliff, offers a panoramic view of the coastline. Explore the charming medieval cottages surrounding the feudal castle or get a taste of what it’s like to be inside a genuine castle.

The traces of history can be seen on this preserved structure, which was once owned by the Counts of Provence. Its age is evident in its entrance gate, cobblestone inner courtyard, vaulted hallways, gargoyles, and fireplace.

To learn more about the medicinal plants used in the Middle Ages, visit the Italian and apothecary gardens. There’s also a nearby craft shop for Grasse souvenirs like perfumes, soaps, and craft glassware.

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