Perfume Workshop in Paris

Perfume has been part of daily life for centuries, from ancient traditions to the elegance of French luxury. Just steps from the Opéra Garnier, Fragonard invites you to discover its history, craftsmanship, and secrets through a guided museum tour and a hands-on perfume workshop. A unique experience in the heart of Paris!
The history of perfume dates back to the Near East around 7000 BC, when the first objects resembling perfume and cosmetics containers appeared. Over time, perfume continued to evolve, reaching a turning point during the Renaissance, a key historical period marked by several discoveries. 
In the 17th century, perfume became more widely used for two main reasons: 
- It helped mask unpleasant body odors, as hygiene practices were still limited. 
- Since the Black Plague, doctors believed that diseases were transmitted through water and that bacteria and microbes could enter the body through the skin’s pores. 
Whether for personal hygiene or a way to prevent illnesses, this period marked a major turning point in the development and widespread use of perfume. 

The Birth of Perfumery in Grasse

 
During the Middle Ages, Grasse was known for its leather tanneries. To counter the strong odor of treated hides, a local tanner named Galimard had the idea of creating scented leather gloves, which quickly became a hit at the royal court. As demand grew, perfumed gloves became a fashion statement, and over time, the perfume industry overtook leather production in Grasse. 
The city’s reputation was further cemented by the French royal court. Impressed by the quality of Grasse’s fragrances, the king granted exclusive rights to the city’s perfumers, helping to establish France as the world’s perfume capital. 

Want to Learn More About the History of Perfumery?

 
Just steps from the Opéra Garnier, in the heart of Paris, Fragonard invites you to discover the fascinating world of perfume through a unique museum experience. As a family-run perfume house, Fragonard is known for its exceptional craftsmanship and commitment to traditional French perfumery. Housed in a beautiful Haussmannian building, the museum transports visitors back to the 19th century, with its elegant stone facades and intricate architectural details. Inside, the decor is inspired by the Rococo style, reminiscent of Marie Antoinette and Catherine de Medici, featuring ornate chandeliers, pastel-colored ceilings, and luxurious furnishings. It’s the perfect place to take stunning Instagram-worthy photos!  
Adress: 9 rue Scribe, 75009 Paris
Transportation: Opéra (lines 3, 7, 8), Madeleine (12, 14), Havre-Caumartin (9) Saint-Lazare (13)
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Make your own perfume in the heart of Paris

 
Fragonard offers a special workshop, available all year round in four languages (English, French, Chinese, and Spanish). It includes: 
1. A hands-on experience where you can create your 12ml personalized Eau de Toilette (around 20 minutes). 
2. A guided tour of the Perfume Museum, where you’ll learn the secrets of perfumery (around 20 minutes). 

 
During the workshop, you’ll get the chance to blend three unique scents from the « Flower of the Year » , which each represents a keynote in the olfactory pyramid: 
- Top note 
- Heart note 
- Base note 

Afterward, a fascinating guided tour will take you through the history and evolution of perfume, from its ancient origins to modern-day production techniques. You’ll also see rare and historic perfume bottles, showcasing centuries of craftsmanship and innovation. And the visit will end by exploring the world of museum’s curators, a family-run perfumery from Grasse since 1926. 

Did You Know? Perfume Concentrations 

Have you ever wondered about the different types of perfume? The strength and longevity of a fragrance depend on its concentration level. Here’s a quick guide: 
- Parfum: 20-40% concentration 
- Eau de Parfum: 12-20% concentration 
- Eau de Toilette: 7-11% concentration 
- Eau de Cologne: 4-6% concentration
Fragonard is one of the last perfumers to oversee the entire perfume-making process, from harvesting flowers to production and retail. It is also one of the few brands that still offers high-quality perfumes at affordable prices. 

Unmissable Paris perfum boutique

 
Before you leave, stop by the Fragonard boutique, where you can find the perfect souvenir for yourself or a loved one! From candles and cosmetics to luxury fragrances, the boutique offers a wide selection, including Fragonard’s signature perfume, bottled in aluminum to protect it from sunlight and humidity. Whether you're looking for a fragrance for women, men, or even children, you’ll find a wide variety of scents to choose from. What better way to capture the elegance and romance of Paris than with a Fragonard perfume? It’s the perfect gift at a great price! 
Enjoy 10% off your purchases by downloading the discount coupon here. 

Practical Information

- Self-guided museum visits are free and do not require a reservation.
- The perfume workshop + guided tour require booking.
- Reserve your spot and select your preferred language by clicking here.
- Choose your date and time, then enter promo code OBONPA23711 to receive 10% off your booking before checkout.
- Please arrive 10 minutes before the workshop starts, as late arrivals will not be admitted once the session has begun.
- Only Group visits (10+ people) require booking. For group reservations, please contact the tourism department at tourisme@fragonard.com. 

Article and photos: O'bon Paris team