If you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, Menton is one place you shouldn’t overlook. Located on the French-Italian border, it’s one of the most unique towns on the Côte d’Azur thanks to its colorful old town, Italian influences, beaches, gardens, and relaxed vibe.
We’ll show you where Menton is, how to get there from Nice, learn all about its lemons, the best things to see and do, restaurant recommendations, and nearby places worth visiting so you can decide if it’s worth adding to your itinerary.
Where is Menton?
Menton is located on the French Riviera right on the border with Italy on the Mediterranean coast, about 30 kilometres from Nice.
It’s basically the last French town before you cross into Italy. Just next to Monaco.
Because of its location, it has a unique mix of French and Italian influences that set it apart from many other towns on the Côte d’Azur.
Menton is one of the most beautiful towns on the French Riviera and one we keep coming back to whenever we’re in the area. It’s known for its colourful old town, pastel buildings, beachfront restaurants, beautiful Mediterranean views, and famous lemon trees. Thanks to its location on the Italian border, it has a slightly different vibe from many other destinations on the French Riviera. Plus, it’s close to many iconic places like Monaco, Nice and only a 3 and a half hour drive to the furthest town on the French Riviera, Saint Tropez.
A Brief History of Menton France
Menton, often called the “Pearl of France,” dates back to the 11th century and was first built around a castle before coming under the Republic of Genoa’s rule. In 1346, it was taken over by the Grimaldi family and remained linked to Monaco for over 500 years. During this time, lemon farming became a key part of the area’s identity.
In 1860, Menton became part of France, and thanks to its warm weather, it quickly turned into a popular winter destination for European elites, who built Belle Époque villas and grand hotels.
During World War II, it was briefly taken by Italy before being liberated again in 1944.
This matters because Menton has been influenced by Monaco, Italy, and France over the centuries, and that mix gives it its architecture, culture, and overall vibe. It’s one of the reasons it stands out from other towns on the French Riviera.
What To See and Do in Menton
Walk through the Old Town (Vieille Ville)
It’s a small area built on a hill above the sea, with narrow streets, pastel buildings, staircases, and small squares all built close together.
The main tip is timing. Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon because midday can feel quite hot and crowded in summer.
Visit the Basilica of Saint-Michel
At the top of the Old Town you’ll find the Basilica of Saint-Michel, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in Menton you’ll see in most pictures.
Entry is free, although opening hours can vary, so make sure to double check before you go.
The main reason to come here is actually the square outside. You get a clear view of the buildings, the sea, and the coastline. It’s one of the best viewpoints in the city, especially when the light is softer in the late afternoon.
Head to the top by the Cemetery of the Old Château
From the Old Town you can continue up a short but steep walk to the cemetery. It’s one of our favourite viewpoints in Menton.
Our tip? Park at the top of the hill by the cemetery, take in the views, and then walk down to the water through the Old Town. The views on the way down are absolutely stunning. You do have to walk back up to your car, but it’s not too bad, and totally worth it!
From the top, you get a wide view over Menton, the coastline, and on clear days you can even see into Italy.
Promenade du Soleil
Down by the water, the Promenade du Soleil is a lovely, flat walk along the seafront. It runs for a few kilometres and connects beaches, cafés, and beautiful views of the sea.
Early morning or sunset is the best time because it’s cooler and more local people are out walking or jogging which gives it a great vibe.
Plage des Sablettes
This is the main beach area in Menton and one of the best places to actually spend time by the water.
The water here is very clear, and there are showers and cafés close by, so there is a lot more going on compared to more remote beaches.
Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum Area
Near the old port you’ll find the area linked to Jean Cocteau, the French artist who had a strong connection to Menton.
Even if you don’t go inside the museum, the walk around the harbour is still worth it. It’s much more modern compared to the rest of Menton, but if you like that kind of thing we definitely recommend visiting.
Day Trip to Ventimiglia Italy from the French Riviera
One of the easiest day trips to do from Menton, other than within the French Riviera, is to cross the border into Italy. Ventimiglia is just a few minutes away.
By train, it takes around 15 to 20 minutes with direct services running regularly throughout the day and avoids border traffic. By car it’s roughly 10 to 15 minutes depending on border traffic. There are also buses, which are cheap and take around the same time as the train.
Most people go for the Friday market, which is one of the largest in the region, or just walk around the town and eat at an Italian restaurant, which is usually cheaper than in France.
Try Menton’s lemons
Menton is known for its lemons, and you’ll notice this everywhere.
The easiest way to experience it is through lemon desserts and drinks, like limoncello, which you’ll find in bakeries and cafés around the Old Town and seafront.
Here are a few lemon farms, orchards and gardens to visit:
- Le Citronerraie – https://maps.app.goo.gl/jferaGkqZNpDwyi37
- Palais de Carnolès – https://maps.app.goo.gl/7qrd3KfQ8nuYvHGN8
- La Ferme des Citrons (requires reservation) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/XC79YF76mvLimUUj7
Attend the Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron)
If you’re visiting Menton in the last two weeks of February, you’ll get to see the Fête du Citron, or Lemon Festival. It’s one of the town’s biggest events, with giant sculptures and parade floats made from thousands of lemons and oranges. There are daytime and evening parades, including displays in the Biovès Gardens. Tickets for the parades start from around €16, although you can see some of the displays for free. It’s a really fun time to visit, but it’s also the busiest time of the year, so if you’re planning on staying in Menton, book your accommodation well in advance.
If you only have one day in Menton…
If you only have one day in Menton we suggest starting at the cemetery for the best view, then come back down for lunch near the harbour, passing through the Old Town and visiting the Basilica. After that, either walk the promenade or go to the beach, and finish with something lemon-based, like gelato, before leaving.
Here are some great restaurant recommendations to try in Menton:
- Biera d’Aquì (4,7 ⭐) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/WR7BiDcdaHssf1yr8
- Palais des Princes (4,7 ⭐) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/ihuUjAbFs4YJhhka9
- Tony restaurant (4,3 ⭐) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/hEuJPttggHafsBR69
- Restaurante Primo (4,3 ⭐) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/2FDSTotnEzS7qYkT7
- Restaurant Mirazur (4,4 ⭐ Haute Cuisine) – https://maps.app.goo.gl/Uhc8TVcSZh6UvCZr9
How to Get to Menton From Nice France
If you’re visiting from Nice, the easiest option is the TER train from Nice-Ville station to Menton, just a 15-20 min walk to Plage des Sablettes. The journey takes around 40 minutes and trains run regularly throughout the day.
You can also reach Menton by car (55 minute drive), bus 80 from the airport to the casino, or taxi, making it an easy day trip from anywhere along the French Riviera.
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If you’re looking for more ideas on where to go in France, make sure to check out our blog post “8Top French HolidayDestinations” for some seriously beautiful spots. Or, if you’re more of a road trip type of traveler, check out our post TOP 7 EPIC FRENCHROAD TRIPS you can do in under 10 days. And if the south of France is on your list, don’t miss our full French RivieraRoadTrip, packed with dreamy stops and practical tips. Traveling on a budget? We’ve got you covered. Head over to our Top Budget TravelHacks to learn how to plan the trip of your dreams without spending a fortune.
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