Menton is often overlooked in favor of its glamorous neighbors (Nice, Monaco).

But for me, it’s the hidden jewel of the French Riviera.

Even my sister-in-law, who’s French, never even heard of it!!

Menton sits right on the Italian border and mixes French Riviera charm with Italian style.

Thanks to its unique climate, it has some of the most beautiful gardens I’ve seen in France.

Most travelers hurry between Nice and Monaco and skip Menton entirely, or they only stop for an hour and miss what makes this colorful town so special.

It gets worse: Even those who visit usually stay on the main tourist path and miss the best viewpoints, hidden gardens, and the local restaurants where people from Menton actually eat.

They leave thinking they’ve seen Menton, but they’ve only seen a small part of it.

After visiting Menton several times, I’ve found the spots that are truly worth your time : from a photo location even locals don’t know about, to the best seafood in the port, and unique experiences you won’t find anywhere else on the Riviera.

This isn’t just another top-10 list. These are the 15 things that made me fall in love with Menton.

Let’s go.

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1. Wander the Colorful Streets of Menton’s Old Town

Let’s start with the obvious : Menton’s old town (Vieux Menton) is absolutely gorgeous.

The old town climbs steeply from the port up toward the basilica.

You’ll find a maze of steep lanes, faded shutters, laundry lines, and sun-warmed walls in peach and gold. The old town rises right from the sea—dramatic, a bit messy, and beautiful.

The first time I walked up, I stopped every few steps to take photos. That’s one I realised what a hidden gem of the French Riviera this is !

What to do here:

• Get lost in the narrow side streets (seriously, put away Google Maps for an hour)
• Look up and you’ll see balconies filled with geraniums and laundry drying in the sun.
• Notice the arched passageways connecting buildings
• Stop at small squares with fountains where locals actually sit and chat

Photo tip: The small side streets make for better photos than the main pedestrian street. Look for staircases, archways, and corners where buildings meet at interesting angles.

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2. Climb to Basilica Saint-Michel for the Rooftop Views

At the top of the old town is the Basilica Saint-Michel Archange. You’ll spot it before you get there, and the climb is definitely worth it.

This 17th-century baroque beauty has a bell tower that’s visible from almost everywhere in Menton. But the real reason to make the climb is the view from the square in front (Parvis Saint-Michel).

From here, you look out over a sea of terracotta rooftops with the Mediterranean shining in the distance. The square is paved with a pebble mosaic showing the Grimaldi coat of arms.

Step inside if it’s open.

Inside, the church feels surprisingly gentle and full of detail.

The last time I was there, a movie was being filmed right in front of the church! I can’t wait to know what all that was about!

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3. Discover the Wedding Room at the Town Hall (Hidden Gem!)

This is the hidden gem that 90% of tourists completely miss.

Inside Menton’s Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville), there’s a room that Jean Cocteau decorated in 1957-58.

It’s officially the civil wedding room, but it’s open to visitors.

The entire space is covered in Cocteau’s whimsical murals with dreamlike scenes with bold lines, mythological figures, and unexpected details.

You walk in expecting a boring municipal building and find yourself standing inside an artwork.

The outside of the building is beautiful too, really photogenic with its orange facade and the entrance planked with banana trees.

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4. Walk Through the Old Château Cemetery for Unexpected Views

I know, suggesting a cemetery as a must-visit sounds weird.

But the Cimetière du Vieux-Château offers some of the best views in all of Menton.

The cemetery sits on a hill overlooking the bay.

This is one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the entire Riviera.

It’s peaceful up here. Quiet. A good place to catch your breath after climbing through the old town.

Getting there: Continue uphill past the basilica, it’s well-marked and worth the climb.

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5. Stroll Through Rue Saint-Michel (The Main Pedestrian Street)

This is the main artery through the old town, lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Yes, it’s touristy. But it’s also charming and worth walking through.

What you’ll find:

• Souvenir shops (lemon everything : soaps, liqueurs, ceramics)
• Gelato shops (perfect for a mid-afternoon break)
• Local boutiques selling Provençal fabrics and artisan goods
• Cafés with outdoor seating

This is where you’ll do your souvenir shopping, but don’t stop here.

Use it as your starting point, then explore the quieter side streets branching off.

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6. Explore the Port (Vieux Port) and Watch the Boats

The Vieux Port is where Menton feels most Italian.

Colorful fishing boats bob in the water.

Restaurants line the quay with tables spilling onto the sidewalk. The whole scene could be Portofino or Cinque Terre.

The only downside is that from here you can’t see the colored buildings behind you. But you can see Italy! Which is right there on the other hill.

This is one of my favorite spots in Menton to just sit and watch life happen.

What to do here:

• Have lunch or dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants (more on this in the food section)
• Watch the boats come and go
• Walk the small pier for a different angle on the old town
• Come back at sunset when everything turns golden

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7. Find the Best Photo Spot: Quai Impératrice Eugénie (Walk to the End!)

The esplanade along the waterfront, officially called Quai Impératrice Eugénie, offers THE best view of Menton’s old town rising up from the sea.

But you have to walk all the way to the far end.

Most people stop about halfway, snap a photo, and leave. They’re missing the magic.

Keep walking away from the center, toward the sea. The further you go, the better the angle becomes.

Eventually you’ll reach a spot where the entire old town is perfectly framed, olorful buildings stacked up the hillside, the basilica on top, mountains behind.

This is the postcard view. This is the shot you came for.

Best time: Golden hour: early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the buildings and everything glows.

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8. Visit Jean Cocteau Museum (Musée Jean Cocteau)

French artist and writer Jean Cocteau had a deep connection to Menton, and this museum showcases his work: drawings, ceramics, tapestries, and more.

Why visit:

• Even if you don’t know Cocteau’s work, the building itself is architecturally stunning
• The collection shows the incredible breadth of his creativity
• Good rainy-day option or break from the sun
• Views out to the sea from inside

Not super expensive, worth an hour of your time if you appreciate art and design.

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9. Get Lost in Val Rahmeh Botanical Gardens

Thanks to Menton’s unique microclimate (warmest spot on the Côte d’Azur), exotic plants thrive here that wouldn’t survive anywhere else in France.

Val Rahmeh botanical garden takes full advantage of this.

You’ll have to walk a bit further away from the main town.

But here you can see tropical plants, rare species, towering palms, bamboo groves, and incredible variety from all over the world.

It’s not huge, but it’s beautifully maintained and feels like stepping into a different climate entirely.

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10. Relax at Plage des Sablettes or Plage de Fossan (The Best Beach in Menton)

Menton’s beaches are mostly pebble, not sand. They’re narrow. But they’re also beautiful, uncrowded, and framed by mountains on one side and turquoise sea on the other.

Plage des Sablettes is my favorite.

It’s a mix of pebbles and some sand, with a perfect view back toward the old town. The water is that incredible Mediterranean clear blue-green.

What to know:

• Fewer people than the main beaches
• A couple of beach clubs if you want to rent loungers
• Or just bring a towel and find a spot
• Bring water shoes—pebbles can be uncomfortable

Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with a book and occasional dips in the sea.

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11. Go Paragliding from Golf Bleu Beach (Best Unique Experience!)

If you’ve ever wanted to fly over the French Riviera, this is your chance.

Azur Parapante operates from Golf Bleu Beach, offering tandem paragliding flights along the coast.

You launch right from the beach, soar up above the coastline, and get views stretching from Monaco to Italy. The pilot handles everything—you just sit back and enjoy the 20-minute flight.

Practical info:

• Book in advance (especially in summer)
• Wear closed-toe shoes
• Bring your phone/camera—pilots are used to passengers taking photos
• Not cheap, but absolutely worth it

If you only splurge on one experience in Menton, make it this.

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12. Walk the Promenade to the Italian Border

One of the loveliest (and easiest) things to do in Menton is walk the waterfront promenade from the old port all the way to Italy.

It’s about 3 kilometers along the sea, with water on one side and mountains on the other.

What you’ll see along the way:

• Several beaches
• Cafés and restaurants
• Locals jogging, walking dogs, doing their daily seaside stroll
• The border marked by a small stream (Roya River)—you can literally walk from France into Italy

Best time: Early morning when it’s quiet and the light is soft, or at sunset when everything turns golden.

It’s flat, easy, and gives you a real feel for how locals live here.

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13. Shop at Les Halles Market (Saturday Mornings)

If you’re in Menton on a Saturday morning, don’t miss the market at Les Halles.

This is where locals shop. It’s not a tourist market, but a real producers’ market with farmers from the surrounding hills selling their goods.

What you’ll find:

• Fresh produce (including those famous Menton lemons!)
• Local cheeses and charcuterie
• Olives and olive oil
• Fresh flowers
• Provençal specialties

Come early (around 8:30 AM) before it gets too crowded. Bring cash. And definitely sample things as you walk around – vendors are generous with tastes.

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14. Experience the Lemon Festival (If You’re Here in February)

Menton is famous for its lemons—and yes, they really are different. Sweeter and more fragrant than regular lemons.

If you’re visiting in February, you absolutely cannot miss the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival).

The entire town transforms into a citrus wonderland with enormous sculptures made entirely of oranges and lemons.

There are huge, elaborate displays, such as castles, animals, and entire scenes—all constructed from fruit.

There are parades, music, fireworks, and the whole town smells like citrus.

Important to know:

• Takes place for about 2-3 weeks in February
• Book accommodation way in advance—the town fills up
• Parade tickets sell out fast
• Worth planning an entire trip around if you can time it right

It’s one of those uniquely quirky French festivals that reminds you why this country is so special.

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15. Take a Day Trip to Italian Villages (Ventimiglia is 5 Minutes Away!)

Ventimiglia is just 5 minutes away by train, and it’s worth a morning visit, especially on Friday when they have a huge market.

Other nearby Italian spots:

• Bordighera – charming coastal town
• Dolceacqua – medieval hilltop village
• San Remo – larger Italian Riviera town

You can easily do Italy for lunch and be back in France for dinner. How cool is that?

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Where to Eat in Menton: The Best Restaurants & Local Specialties

Now let’s talk about the food. Because honestly, this is one of the best parts of Menton.

Le Petit Port (Best Seafood in the Port)

This is where you want to eat at least once.

Le Petit Port sits right on the water in the old port, and the seafood is as fresh as it gets—fish that was swimming that morning.

Order a seafood platter to share, a carafe of rosé, and just enjoy the view.

Watching the boats and the harbor activity.

The service is friendly, the atmosphere is relaxed, and prices are reasonable for the quality.

What to order: Whatever the daily catch is, seafood platters, grilled fish.

Coco Loco (Good Vibes in the Port)

This is where you go for the atmosphere.

Coco Loco sits right in the port, with colorful tables, music in the background, and that easy Riviera energy.

The food is good. Nothing life-changing, nothing bad either. Solid, simple, does the job.

But the real reason to come is the view.

Boats in front of you, the old town behind, a drink on the table… and suddenly you’re on vacation-vacation.

The staff is genuinely nice, the crowd is relaxed, and it’s perfect for sunset drinks or a casual dinner when you don’t want anything fancy.

What to order: Fried seafood, salads, a cold rosé or cocktails. Come for the vibe, stay for the view.

Local Specialties You Must Try

Don’t leave Menton without tasting:

Tourte de Blettes – A sweet-savory tart made with Swiss chard, raisins, and pine nuts. Sounds weird, tastes amazing. You’ll find it at local bakeries.

Pissaladière – Flatbread topped with caramelized onions, anchovies, and olives. Niçoise in origin but beloved throughout this region.

Pan Bagnat – A sandwich stuffed with tuna, vegetables, olives, and olive oil soaked into the bread. Perfect beach picnic food.

You can find all of these at local bakeries, the market, or small cafés throughout town.

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The Best Tours & Experiences in Menton

Private Walking Tour of Old Menton

If you want to really understand what you’re seeing, book a private walking tour with a local guide.

They’ll take you through the old town’s narrow streets, share stories about Menton’s history and architecture, point out details you’d never notice on your own, and recommend their favorite hidden spots.

Usually 2-3 hours, and worth every euro for the context it provides.

╰┈➤ Book a private Menton walking tour here

Food Tour: Taste Your Way Through Menton

A guided food tour lets you sample local specialties while learning about Menton’s culinary traditions and Italian influences.

You’ll visit the market, taste local products, try regional wines, and eat at spots you’d never find on your own.

Perfect if you’re a foodie or just want someone else to do the planning for an afternoon.

╰┈➤ Book a food tour in Menton here

Day Trip to Italian Riviera Villages

Several companies offer day trips from Nice to Menton and into nearby Italian villages—places like Dolceacqua, Bordighera, or San Remo.

It’s a great way to see the Italian side without worrying about driving or train schedules. Usually includes transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals.

╰┈➤ Book a food tour in Menton here

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Should You Stay in Menton or Just Visit for the Day?

This is a question I get all the time, so let me break it down clearly.

Why You Should Stay in Menton

Better prices than Nice or Monaco. You’ll find more affordable hotels and restaurants while still being right on the coast.

More authentic feel. Menton is a real town where people actually live, not just a tourist destination.

Easy train connections. The station connects you to the entire Riviera—Nice is 30 minutes, Monaco is 10 minutes, Italy is 5 minutes.

Less crowded (in the right season). Being at the eastern end means fewer day-trippers than central Riviera towns.

Perfect for exploring both French and Italian coasts by train or car.

When to Skip Staying in Menton

If you’re visiting November-March. The town completely changes during low season—many restaurants and attractions close, and the energy drains out. It feels sleepy and half-closed.

Exception: February is different if you’re coming for the Lemon Festival. Then definitely stay! Spring in the French Riviera can actually be a great idea !

If you want to be central for western Riviera towns. Menton is at the far eastern edge. You’ll spend more time on trains if you’re planning lots of trips to Cannes, Antibes, or Saint-Tropez.

My Recommendation

For a May-October visit, absolutely base yourself in Menton for 2-3 nights.

You’ll save money compared to Nice or Monaco, enjoy authentic local life, and have easy access to both the French and Italian Riviera.

Use Menton as your home base and take day trips along the coast in both directions.

For more ideas on where to stay on the French Riviera, check out my complete guide to the best French Riviera towns.

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Where to Stay in Menton

Budget-friendly & solo travel

• Gabriel Boutique Hotel – Modern, well located, great value
• Hotel Lemon – Budget-friendly with character (yes, lemon-themed 🍋)
• Hôtel De Londres – Classic French hotel near the train station

Good for couples

• All of the hotels above also work well for couples on a mid-range budget
• For something more special, see the luxury options below

Best for families

• Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles – Larger rooms, good location, and practical amenities for families

Sea view without breaking the bank

• Hôtel Vendôme Menton – Lovely sea views at reasonable prices (for the Riviera)

Luxury & splurge

• Château Eza – Ultimate luxury (technically in Èze, but very close – you’ll need a car or taxis)
• Hôtel Le Roquebrune – Upscale stay with stunning views (not in Menton,but close)

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Practical Info: Everything Else You Need to Know

Getting to Menton

By train:

• From Nice: 30 minutes
• From Monaco: 10 minutes
• From Ventimiglia, Italy: 5 minutes

Regular connections throughout the day. The train station is walkable to the old town (about 10-15 minutes).

By car: Take the A8 autoroute or the scenic coastal roads. Parking can be tricky in summer—look for garages near the port or station. If you’re looking to rent a car, try looking on DiscoverCars.

When to Visit Menton

Best months: May-June or September-October

• Perfect weather
• Fewer crowds
• Everything is open
• Hotels are more affordable

Summer (July-August):

• Beautiful weather but crowded
• More expensive
• Book ahead

February:

• Lemon Festival (book months in advance!)
• Otherwise still low season

November-March:

• Many places closed
• Quiet and sleepy
• Only recommended if you specifically want off-season tranquility

How Much Time in Menton?

One full day is enough to see the main highlights if you’re short on time.

2-3 days lets you really settle in, explore at a relaxed pace, and take a day trip to Italy or nearby French towns.

If you’re spending a week or more on the Riviera, Menton makes an excellent base for day trips in both directions.

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Final Thoughts

Menton is the French Riviera town that doesn’t try too hard.

It’s not Monaco with superyachts. Not Nice with promenade buzz. Not Cannes with film festival glamour.

It’s just… itself.

Pastel buildings tumbling down to the sea. Local markets selling fresh produce. Fishermen unloading the morning catch in the port. Gardens full of exotic plants. And a pace that invites you to slow down and actually be where you are.

For me, that’s what makes it special.

If you’re looking for authentic Riviera charm without inflated prices and massive crowds, Menton is where you want to be.

Pack comfortable walking shoes (those old town streets are steep!), bring your camera, and prepare to fall in love with this colorful corner of France that somehow still flies under the radar.

I’ll see you in the port for that seafood platter and rosé. 🍋

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