This French Riviera town near Italy charms with its mild climate and citrus groves. Visitors enjoy Mediterranean beaches, local museums, and a botanical garden.
Menton, the easternmost town on the French Riviera, sits just steps from the Italian border. This small coastal city blends French and Italian influences in its architecture and cuisine. In Menton, you can admire Jean Cocteau's artwork at the Musée Jean Cocteau, wander through the exotic Jardin Serre de la Madone, or sunbathe on the sandy Plage des Sablettes. The town's compact setting allows you to experience its lemon-scented streets, colorful old town, and Mediterranean beaches with ease.
Exploring Menton's Old Town
The heart of Menton lies in its old town, a maze of narrow streets and pastel-colored buildings climbing up the hillside. As you walk through the Vieille Ville, you'll come across small squares, local shops, and restaurants tucked away in centuries-old buildings. The Rue Longue, an ancient Roman road, cuts through the center of the old town. At the top of the hill stands the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archangel, a 17th-century church with an ornate baroque façade. From the church square, you can see panoramic views of Menton's coastline and the surrounding mountains.
Beaches and Coastal Areas
Menton's coastline stretches for several kilometers, with a variety of beaches for sunbathing and swimming. The main beach, Plage des Sablettes, is a wide sandy stretch located near the old town. You'll find beach clubs, restaurants, and water sports facilities here. For a calmer experience, head to the pebble beaches of Fossan or Buse. The coastal promenade, running along the seafront, is ideal for a leisurely walk or jog with views of the Mediterranean.
Gardens and Parks
Menton's mild microclimate supports several remarkable gardens. The Jardin Serre de la Madone, created in the 1920s by Lawrence Johnston, contains a collection of exotic plants from around the world. The Jardin botanique exotique du Val Rahmeh features tropical and subtropical plants, including a 400-year-old olive tree. For a taste of Menton's famous citrus, visit the Palais Carnolès Garden, which has Europe's largest collection of citrus trees with over 137 varieties.
Lemon Festival and Local Products
Menton's association with lemons goes beyond its groves. Every February, the city hosts the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), a unique event featuring parades with floats made entirely of citrus fruits. Throughout the year, you can find lemon-based products in local shops. Try lemon-infused olive oil, lemon liqueurs, or lemon-flavored pastries. The covered market, Marché des Halles, is a good place to sample and purchase local specialties.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
Art admirers will appreciate Menton's connection to Jean Cocteau, the multidisciplinary artist who spent much time in the city. The Musée Jean Cocteau houses the largest public collection of Cocteau's work, including paintings, drawings, and film clips. Another Cocteau-related site is the Bastion Museum, a small fortress that the artist decorated himself. To learn about Menton's past, visit the Musée de Préhistoire Régionale, which displays artifacts from prehistoric times found in the region.
Local Cuisine
Menton's cuisine reflects its location between France and Italy. You'll find traditional Provençal dishes alongside Italian-influenced fare. Try local specialties like barbajuan (a type of fritter filled with Swiss chard and ricotta) or pissaladière (an onion tart). Seafood is fresh and abundant, with many restaurants offering catches of the day. For a fine dining experience, book a table at Mirazur, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant overlooking the sea.
Day Trips from Menton
Menton's location makes it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area. Monaco, with its famous casino and palace, is just a 20-minute train ride away. The Italian town of Ventimiglia, known for its Friday market, is even closer. For a change of scenery, head to the perched village of Sainte-Agnès, one of the highest coastal villages in Europe, with views of the Mediterranean.
Getting to and Around Menton
The nearest airport is in Nice, about 40 kilometers away. From there, you can reach Menton by train or bus. Trains run regularly along the coast, connecting Menton to other Riviera towns. Within Menton, most attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local buses are available. If you plan to explore the surrounding area, renting a car can be convenient, but be aware that parking in the town center can be difficult during peak season.
