By Stefanie Michaels
Grasse is located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in southeastern France. It is situated about 20 kilometers/12 miles inland from the Mediterranean Sea and in the French Riviera hills. The closest cities are Cannes and Nice.
Provençal or specifically for the Grasse people, this specific French dialect, Maritim is spoken in the areas around Aix-en-Provence, It is also known as Centrau or Mediterranèu.
This picturesque town is steeped in history. The Old Town of Grasse is filled with cobblestone streets, quaint shops, and historical buildings.
Dubbed the World’s Capital of Parfume, Grasse is also home to several perfumeries, including Fragonard and Galimard, which offer tours and workshops for travelers interested in learning about the history and art of perfumery. Visitors can also take around the International Perfume Museum, which showcases the history of perfumery.
There are two important floral festivals— one in spring and the other at the end of summer. The annual Expo Rose is held each year in May. It’s an international exhibition of roses.
The Fête du Jasmin, also known as La Jasminade, is quite the celebration, complete with decorated floats driven through the town, with young people on board, throwing flowers to the crowd. Jasmine ribbons decorate the center of town. Bring your rain jackets, as their fire department fills a fire truck with jasmine-infused water to spray on revellers.
Some things to do in Grasse include:
- Visit one of the many perfumeries in the city, such as Fragonard or Galimard, to learn about the history of perfumery and see how fragrances are made.
- Explore the Old Town of Grasse, filled with charming streets, quaint shops, and historical buildings.
- Visit the International Perfume Museum, which showcases the history of perfumery and the art of creating scents.
- Take a hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy the beautiful natural landscapes and take in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
- Visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Puy, a 12th-century church that is an excellent example of Romanesque architecture.
- Enjoy the local cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the city, which is known for its fresh seafood and Provencal dishes.
- Take a day trip to the nearby towns of Cannes and Antibes, which are both known for their beautiful beaches, chic boutiques, and lively nightlife.
- Visit the Parfumerie Galimard, the oldest perfumery in Grasse, which offers tours and workshops for visitors interested in learning more about the art of perfumery.
