Meet the “noses” of Grasse
Let yourself go!
During your vacation in Nice, take time to visit Grasse, the world capital of luxury perfumery. Just 30 km from your hotel, Grasse is world-famous for its perfumes, which have inspired the greatest perfumers such as Ernest Beaux, creator of Chanel No. 5!
A little history...
The great adventure of essences from Grasse began in the 17th century, when Catherine de Médicis launched the fashion for perfumed gloves. The city, which at the time specialized in tanning, embarked on a new industry to meet the high demand from the nobility.
Four centuries later, fields of flowers still border the city, and some 30 factories produce perfumes shipped to every continent.
From your hotel in Nice, plan a day in Grasse for a truly olfactory journey, enchanted by the scents of jasmine, roses, lavender and thyme. The town is only 30 km from Nice. It is also served by bus and train. Getting around is best done on foot.
Discover the art of perfumery
The perfumer, commonly known as the “nose”, is a true artist of scents. He controls the quality of raw materials and develops formulas in a laboratory. You'll meet many of them in Grasse. You'll even have the opportunity to create your own perfume during an initiation session. Come to the Studio des Fragrances to take part and leave with your own precious essence.
Learn all about perfume
All the perfume factories in Grasse organize guided tours (usually free and in all languages) to learn all about extraction, distillation, enfleurage and perfume architecture: La Bastide des arômes, Guy Bouchara, Fragonard, Molinard...
The latter includes a number of old machines and laboratories dating back to the 19th century. Also not to be missed: the Musée International de la Parfumerie.
Mark your calendar
During your vacation in Nice, take advantage of guided tours of flower fields to breathe in a thousand and one scents in a magnificent natural setting, such as La Source Parfumée.
And if you've booked in August, don't miss the Jasmine Festival in the perfume city.
It's sure to spice up your vacation in Nice and on the Côte d'Azur!
Further information on the Grasse tourist office website.
