International Perfume Museum

Founded in 1989 and renovated in 2008, the Musée International de la Parfumerie – the only one of its kind in the world – became firmly established in the symbolic region of Grasse, the birthplace of luxury perfumery.

The International Perfume Museum brings the history of perfume-making to life, exploring it through its many facets: raw materials, manufacturing, industry, innovation, trade, design, marketing, and uses. The world of perfume is also translated through wondrous objects from all five continents, such as works of art, textiles, and archaeological finds.

The museum is a bold architectural creation, the work of Frédéric Jung. It spans 3,500m² and is structured around a 14th-century rampart and the 18th-century Hôtel Pontevès, all graced with gardens and terraces overlooking the exceptional countryside around the city.

The museum follows Western historical chronology – Antiquity, Middle Ages, Modern, and Contemporary periods – and is divided into five sections, each representing an historical period and contemporary issues: elegance and classicism, magic and dynamism, frivolity and hygiene.

This 21st-century museum looks at the past and present, but also explores the future, with a section dedicated to globalization, marketing and communication, and new markets.

Novel ways to visit
Throughout the year, the International Perfume Museum and Gardens host temporary exhibits, themed tours, testing and tasting sessions (both flavor and fragrance workshops), custom-designed school tours, renowned guest speakers and presentations, a document center, and a museum boutique.

Arrange an appointment or tour with the museum staff : activites.musees@paysdegrasse.fr

Guided MIP Tours : Our qualified tour guides offer free guided tours all year long (1½ hours).