Nice in 1 Day for Couples - Guided visit to a traditional perfume house in Grasse (hands‑on insights on perfume creation)
In Collaboration with NICE IMMERSION. Updated on January 30, 2026.
A private full‑day drive through the fragrant hills and medieval hilltop villages inland from Nice. Visit a working perfume factory in Grasse, lunch with a panoramic view in Gourdon, and end the day wandering art galleries and ramparts in Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence — with a special romantic aperitif at the iconic La Colombe d'Or.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with NICE IMMERSION, inspired by the tour Private discovery of the hinterland of the Côte d'Azur. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided visit to a traditional perfume house in Grasse (hands‑on insights on perfume creation)
- Lunch with panoramic views in Gourdon, a perched medieval village
- Late‑afternoon stroll and a romantic aperitif at La Colombe d'Or in Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
Itinerary
Day 1
Full day private tour from Nice visiting Grasse, Gourdon and Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence. Start in Nice with hotel pickup, return to Nice by early evening.
Hotel pickup on the Promenade des Anglais (Nice)
Private driver/guide picks you up at your hotel or a central meeting point on the Promenade des Anglais. Quick briefing of the day while boarding the air‑conditioned vehicle; bottled water provided.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask to be seated on the left side for the best early morning sea views as you depart Nice.
- Confirm the exact hotel entrance or Promenade landmark by phone the evening before — pickups run on schedule.
- Bring a light layer; coastal mornings can be cool even in May, while luggage fits easily in our vehicle.
Drive from Nice to Grasse (scenic inland drive)
Relaxing coastal to countryside drive across the hills toward Grasse — good photo opportunities along the way.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side for the best inland valley views as you climb away from the coast.
- Your guide will point out a quick photo stop if the light is particularly pretty — ideal for couple portraits.
- Use this time to ask your guide about local vineyards or private wineries if you’d like to add a tasting (optional).
Guided visit to Parfumerie Galimard — learn perfume creation
Guided tour of a historic perfume house in Grasse (14 Rue Jean Ossola) to discover raw materials and the steps of perfume creation — includes time to test fragrances and buy a souvenir vial.
Tips from local experts:
- Avoid wearing strong fragrances to fully appreciate the subtle notes during the tasting session.
- Ask for a small sample vial of a scent you love — perfect as a romantic keepsake or a travel gift.
- If you want a private short scent‑blending demo, let the guide know in advance so the factory can accommodate.
Drive from Grasse up to Gourdon (hilltop village)
Scenic drive uphill to the perched medieval village of Gourdon, with views opening toward the coast — short photo stops possible en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the right side for better coastal panorama photos as you climb to Gourdon.
- There are a few narrow winding sections — if you’re prone to motion‑sickness, request a front seat.
- Your driver can stop briefly at a viewpoint for a private couple photo — mention it if you want a sunset‑style shot.
Lunch in Gourdon — panoramic terrace (arranged by guide)
Lunch at a local restaurant or a curated picnic on a terrace with sweeping views of the coast. (Operator arranges best terrace available that day.)
Tips from local experts:
- Ask for a terrace or window table with the coastal vista — perfect for a relaxed romantic meal.
- Try local specialties (ratatouille, socca or Niçoise‑style dishes) and share a dessert for a cozy couple moment.
- If you have dietary needs, tell the guide when booking; local restaurants are used to accommodating requests.
Wander the medieval streets & viewpoint of Gourdon
Short relaxed stroll around Gourdon’s narrow lanes and ramparts with time for photos, local craft stalls and the famous panorama viewpoint (up to ~80 km visibility on a clear day).
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for the cobbled lanes; there are many pretty corners for intimate photos.
- Find a quiet bench on the viewpoint for a few minutes of private time together with the coastal panorama.
- Small artisan stalls sell lavender and local crafts — buy a sachet of lavender as a romantic souvenir.
Drive from Gourdon to Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence
Short scenic transfer down from the hills toward the perched, art‑filled village of Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side for best valley views on this leg; the road has several scenic pull‑outs for photos.
- Ask your guide about local galleries you might want longer time in — Saint‑Paul can be tailored to your tastes.
- If you're celebrating an occasion, mention it now so the guide can suggest upgrades (gallery visits, private tastings).
Stroll Saint‑Paul‑de‑Vence — galleries, ramparts and atmosphere
Leisurely walk through the village’s cobbled streets, browse intimate art galleries, visit historic ramparts and enjoy the atmosphere that inspired many painters.
Tips from local experts:
- Visit a few small galleries rather than the busiest spots — you’ll find original works and a calmer experience for two.
- Head up to the ramparts 20 minutes before golden hour for soft light on the village courtyards — great for couple photos.
- Wear lighter layers — the village is often warmer than the coast and there are plenty of shaded cafés to pause in.
Special moment — aperitif at La Colombe d'Or
A romantic aperitif or coffee at the legendary La Colombe d'Or — famous for its art‑filled dining rooms and courtyard (short reserved stop to toast the day).
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve an outdoor table in the courtyard if you prefer an intimate setting surrounded by original artworks.
- Try a regional rosé or a classic French aperitif and ask for the house recommendation for a light pairing.
- La Colombe d'Or is historic — take a slow walk inside to admire the paintings and memorabilia together.
Return drive to Nice & drop‑off
Comfortable return to Nice with a short debrief and drop‑off at your original pickup point or hotel. Expect to arrive early evening.
Tips from local experts:
- If you enjoyed a particular winery or gallery, ask your guide about options to return independently later in your stay.
- Request a quick photo stop on the way back if the light is especially beautiful — perfect for a final couple portrait.
- Confirm your exact drop‑off spot with the guide (hotel entrance or Promenade) to avoid any delays.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 5 |
| Total Places | 5 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Meal, Attraction, Neighborhood, Break |
