Grasse is a hill town about 17 km north of Cannes, known as the world capital of perfume. The TER line from Cannes reaches Grasse in about 25 to 30 minutes, and buses also run from the Cannes bus station. The Musée International de la Parfumerie, at 2 Boulevard du Jeu de Ballon, explains the history of perfume making, and perfumeries such as Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard offer free factory tours and workshops. The old town has Place aux Aires, the cathedral Notre-Dame-du-Puy and narrow lanes with fountains. Flowers harvested around Grasse include rose and jasmine, picked in May and from August to October. The Villa-Musée Fragonard displays the works of the painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard.
| Distance | 17 km north of Cannes |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 25-30 minutes by train |
| Getting there | TER Zou trains from Gare de Cannes; bus 600 (Cannes-Grasse) also runs; fares about EUR 3-5 (~$3.50-6) |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Place de la Buanderie, 06130 Grasse, France |
How to get there
- TER train
- Bus from Cannes
- Car (about 30 minutes)
Suggested itinerary
- Arrive by train, visit the perfume museum, tour a perfumery, lunch in the old town, workshop in the afternoon, return to Cannes
Location
Place de la Buanderie, 06130 Grasse, France
43.6580, 6.9230 View on map
Highlights
- Perfumery tours at Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard
- Musée International de la Parfumerie
- Old town and Place aux Aires
- Jasmine and rose harvest seasons
Tips for visiting
- Book a perfume workshop ahead if you want to make a bespoke scent
- Visit in May or autumn for the harvest
- Station is below the old town; use the local bus or a 15-minute uphill walk
When to visit
May for roses; August to October for jasmine.
Accessibility
The old town is hilly with cobbles; main museums have step-free access.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
How far is Grasse from Cannes?
About 17 km, or 25 to 30 minutes by train.
Are the perfumery tours free?
Factory tours are generally free; workshops cost extra.