Menton Travel Guide – How to Experience the Pearl of the French Riviera

Known as the “Pearl of the French Riviera”, Menton has that reputation due to its nonstop sunshine (over 300 days/year), and it’s incredible location positioned just between the foot of the Alps and the Mediterranean Sea.  It’s one of those picturesque places that you can only dream of seeing – a beautiful, colorful old town.  Cobblestone alleyways that wind around boutique shops, art galleries, and historic churches.  And not to mention its proximity to Italy which allows for an incredible mix of French and Italian culture which can be seen in its food, visitors, and architecture.

I visited Menton for the first time for my bachelorette party and it was everything I could have hoped for and more.  Beach clubs.  Incredible food and wine.  And locals who brought our weekend to life.  Although Menton is one of the quieter places in the French Riviera (especially compared to Nice and St. Tropez), it should not be discounted.  This is your ultimate Menton travel guide – where to eat, where to stay, practical travel tips, and more!

 

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Where is Menton?

Menton is a coastal town on the far eastern edge of the French Riviera, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of France.  It sits right on the Italian border, just east of Monaco and west of Ventimiglia, Italy.  From Nice, it’s roughly 30 minutes by train along the Mediterranean coast.  You can also reach it via car, with Menton as the last French exit before Italy.  The town spreads between the sea and the foot of the Alps, marking the eastern end of the Côte d’Azur.

 

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History of Menton

Menton’s story goes back to prehistoric times, with evidence of early settlements found in the nearby caves of Vallée des Merveilles.  In the Middle Ages, the town came under the control of the Grimaldi family of Monaco in 1346, who ruled it for centuries.  In the 19th century, Menton became famous among European aristocrats and travelers for its mild climate, especially as a winter retreat for the British and Russian elite.  For a short period in the mid-1800s, Menton declared itself a “free city” before officially becoming part of France in 1861 under Napoleon III.  The town’s lemon groves, which thrived thanks to its sunny microclimate, became central to its identity and economy, and today they are celebrated annually at the famous Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron).  Today, Menton’s history as a border town plus its ties to Monaco and Italy, have shaped it into the elegant (yet laid-back) city visitors can come to expect.

 

Best Time to Visit Menton

The best time to visit Menton, France, is during the spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October), when the weather is warm and sunny but not overly hot, making it perfect for strolling the promenade and enjoying the town.  These shoulder seasons also mean fewer tourists compared to the busy summer months.  July and August are peak season, bringing hotter temperatures and larger crowds, especially since Menton sits right on the French Riviera.  Winter (December to February) is much quieter, but thanks to Menton’s mild Mediterranean climate, it stays pleasant; and February is especially lively with the famous Lemon Festival.

I visited Menton in mid-September and experienced beautiful, warm weather with chilly mornings and evenings.  It also felt incredibly quiet from what I would have expected from a coastal town in the French Riviera – so if you crave fewer crowds, “shoulder season” would be a great time to visit.

 

How to Get to Menton

The best way to get to Menton is by flying to Nice and taking a train, taxi, rideshare, or renting a car from Nice.

If you fly into Nice, the cheapest way to get to Menton is by taking the TER train which takes between 30-45 minutes depending on where you board.  If you’re getting on the train at the Nice airport, you need to walk (about 10 minutes) to the Nice Saint-Augustin train stop and go towards “Ventimiglia”.  If you’re already in Nice, you’ll want to get on the train at Nice-Ville and go towards “Ventimiglia”.  The cost should be less than €10 and you can buy your ticket here.

Another option is to take a taxi or rideshare (Bolt or Uber) from Nice.  A rideshare will be a bit cheaper at around €100; and a taxi will cost around €130.  For a private, English-speaking driver waiting for you at the airport, you can book a ride here.

Your final option is to rent a car from Nice (or elsewhere in France) and drive to Menton.  You do not need a car in Menton as the town is small and walkable, however, if you’re planning on exploring more of the French Riviera I would highly recommend having a car.

 

How to Get Around Menton

If you’re only planning on staying in Menton (and not seeing more of the French Riviera), you don’t need a car as town is small and walkable.  In the case that you do want to go to dinner or venture out a little bit further, you can easily get a taxi, Bolt, or Uber from town.  However, if you’re planning on a larger French Riviera road trip – I highly recommend renting a car to get around.

 

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Where to Stay in Menton

When staying in Menton, these are the hotels that I recommend…

• Hotel de Londres
• Best Western Premier Hotel Prince de Galles
• Hotel Gabriel
• Villa Genesis

 

Best Things to See & Do in Menton

Despite its small size, there are tons of incredible things to see and do in (and around) Menton!

 

EAT YOUR WAY THROUGH MENTON

If you want to experience Menton through its food, I recommend joining this small-group Gourmet Food & Wine Tour led by a local expert.  Over about three hours, you’ll wander the Old Town and seafront, sampling artisan cheeses, olives, tapenades, fresh pastries, and Menton’s famous citrus treats, all paired with local wine and limoncello.  It’s a relaxed way to taste authentic dishes, learn about the region’s culinary traditions, and pick up insider tips for where to eat and shop while you’re in town.

 

BOOK YOUR GOURMET FOOD & WINE TOUR HERE!

 

STROLL THROUGH MENTON OLD TOWN

Menton’s Old Town is a maze of pastel-colored streets climbing the hillside toward sweeping sea views.  As you wander, you’ll find hidden squares, flower-draped balconies, and charming little shops.  It’s the perfect way to soak up the town’s slow-paced Riviera vibe.

 

VISIT THE BASILIQUE SAINT-MICHEL ARCHANGE DE MENTON

As one of the main attractions in Menton, this yellow Baroque-style church dominates the Menton skyline with its ornate façade and sweeping staircase.  Entrance is free and once inside you’ll be treated to intricate frescoes and beautiful paintings.  Plus, climbing up to the basilica also rewards you with some of the best views over the rooftops and Mediterranean.

 

JOIN A WINE-TASTING TOUR

For a different type of tour, consider joining this small-group wine tasting tour where you’ll be taken off the beaten path into boutique cellars and vineyards around Menton.  You’ll sample local vintages, learn about terroir and wine production in this unique micro-climate, and hear stories from passionate winemakers.  It’s perfect for wine lovers who want depth, local insight, and an elevated tasting experience beyond the usual wine bar.

 

BOOK YOUR WINE-TASTING TOUR HERE!

 

WALK TO THE CIMETIERE DU VIEUX CHATEAU

Perched above town, this hillside cemetery is peaceful and offers panoramic views of Menton, the sea, and the Italian border.  The walk up is steep but rewarding – especially at sunset when the light hits the pastel buildings below.  It’s a quiet escape with incredible views.

 

LOUNGE AT A BEACH CLUB

Menton’s beaches are calm and inviting, with plenty of private beach clubs offering loungers, umbrellas, and full service right by the water.  Spend an afternoon soaking up the Riviera sun with a glass of rosé and fresh seafood just steps from your chair.  (The beaches in Menton are rocky so make sure to bring water shoes!)

My favorite beach club in Menton is Les Sablettes Beach Club.  I recommend booking ahead and brining your own towel!  (I also love La Môme Riviera, located in Cape Martin a 10 minute drive from Menton).

 

RENT A BOAT FOR A DAY

For a different perspective of the French Riviera, rent a small boat and cruise along Menton’s coast.  You can swim in turquoise coves, spot the Italian border from the water, boat through the giant yachts in Monaco, and enjoy the Mediterranean at your own pace.  It’s a splurge-worthy experience that is worth the splurge.  I booked with Marco through Click & Boat and I would highly recommend him!

 

DINE AT THE #1 RESTAURANT IN THE WORLD (2019)

If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience, Mirazur is hard to beat.  Perched above the sea with sweeping views of the Riviera and Menton’s coastline, this three-Michelin-starred restaurant (named the Best Restaurant in the World in 2019) celebrates seasonal cooking inspired by the restaurant’s own gardens, local seafood, and Menton’s famous citrus.  Chef Mauro Colagreco creates tasting menus that change with the moon cycles, so no two visits feel the same.  It’s a true culinary destination worth splurging on – just be sure to book far in advance.

 

 

Food & Drink in Menton

In Menton, the food and drink scene perfectly captures the sunny, coastal charm of the French Riviera with a noticeable Italian twist; (it is bordering Italy after all).  This little town is famous for its lemons, which show up everywhere from desserts and marmalades to refreshing liqueurs.  Local restaurants lean into Mediterranean food, serving plenty of fresh seafood with a spotlight on Italian influences – handmade pastas, risottos, and gelato all fit seamlessly into the local dining culture.

When it comes to drinks, you’ll notice Provençal rosé and refreshing white wines that pair beautifully with seafood and lighter fare.  Menton also produces its own citrus-based liqueurs, inspired by its famous lemons, and many cocktail menus feature fresh herbs and fruit from the region.

Here are the restaurants not to miss when you visit Menton…

• Restaurant Mirazur – 3-star Michelin restaurant
• La Môme Riviera – Seaside lunch
• Les Sablettes Beach Club – Seaside lunch
• La PecoraNegra Menton – Pizza restaurant
• Mitron Bakery – Takeaway bakery

 

FAQ About Visiting Menton

Q:  “Is Menton Worth Visiting?”

• A:  Absolutely!  Menton is truly the “pearl” of the French Riviera and I hope that you get to explore it!  It’s quiet, charming, but still has great food and beaches to enjoy.

Q:  “How many days do you need in Menton?”

• A:  You only need one day to see the entirety of Menton.  However, if you want to slow down and enjoy, I would suggest two days.  With one day dedicated to exploring town and another day at the beach or having a boat day.

Q:  “Can you visit Menton as a day trip from Nice or Monaco?”

• A:  Yes.  Menton can be visited as a day trip from Nice or Monaco.

Q:  “Is Menton cheaper than Nice?”

• A:  Overall, I would say that yes, Menton is probably cheaper than Nice.  However, I want to stress that you can either have an expensive or affordable trip to Menton as there are a wide variety of hotels to choose from and different activities ranging from free to expensive.

 

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Menton is an incredible place for many reasons.  The sunshine, beaches, history, and seaside charm.  It’s both a perfect spot for a day trip on a greater French Riviera itinerary or the perfect place to base yourself to explore.  I hope that this Menton travel guide has inspired you to visit and helped plan your travels.  If you have any questions about visiting Menton, let me know in a comment below!

 

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