Menton is worth visiting for several reasons:

1. Scenic Beauty

Nestled on the French Riviera, Menton boasts stunning natural beauty. Picturesque mountains surround it and overlook the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. The town is known for its mild climate, lush gardens, and colorful landscapes, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers.

2. Architecture and History

Menton is rich in history and showcases a blend of architectural styles. The Old Town, known as “Vieille Ville,” features narrow streets, charming buildings with pastel-colored facades, and medieval landmarks. Menton’s iconic Basilica of Saint-Michel and the historic Jean Cocteau Museum are notable attractions.

3. Gardens and Parks

Menton is often called the “City of Gardens” due to its beautifully manicured parks and gardens. The most famous is the Jardin Exotique Val Rahmeh, a botanical garden with various exotic plants. The Serre de la Madone, created by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Johnston, is another must-visit garden in Menton.

4. Lemon Festival

One of Menton’s major annual events is the Lemon Festival, which takes place in February. The festival showcases elaborate sculptures made from lemons and oranges, parades, and vibrant street decorations. It is a unique and vibrant celebration that attracts visitors from all over the world.

5. Gastronomy

Menton is renowned for its culinary scene, offering a wide range of delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Fresh seafood, locally grown fruits and vegetables, and flavorful regional dishes are abundant. The town is also famous for its sweet lemons used in various traditional desserts and drinks.

6. Proximity to Other Attractions

Menton is ideally located, allowing easy access to other popular destinations on the French Riviera. You can explore the glamorous city of Monaco, visit the charming village of Eze, or venture further to Nice, Cannes, and Antibes – all within a short distance.

Menton’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and pleasant climate make it an attractive destination for those seeking relaxation, history, and a taste of the French Riviera’s charm.

Milena Pigdanowicz-Fideira, Canva.com

What is unique about Menton?

Menton is a town in southeastern France near the Italian border and part of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region. It is the warmest winter resort on the French Riviera’s Côte d’Azur and a popular summer resort. 

Menton has a rich history and has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era. It is the site of the original “Grimaldi Man” find of early modern humans, as well as remains of Neanderthals and Cro-Magnons. 

Menton has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, with milder winters and warmer nights in summer compared to the rest of the French Mediterranean coastal area, providing Menton with a particular micro-climate. 

This climate is especially favorable to the citrus groves of hardy clementines, mandarin oranges, satsuma oranges, tangerines, oranges, and lemons, hence one of the town’s symbols, the lemon. 

Menton is also famous for its beaches, reputed parks and gardens, and Palissy majolica pottery depicting lemons.

Max Labeille, Canva.com

Can you take a day trip to Menton?

Menton is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially if you’re staying in Nice, Monaco, or Italy. A day is enough to explore the highlights:

• Stroll through the old town and visit Basilique Saint-Michel.
• Walk along the Promenade du Soleil, enjoying sea views and cafes.
• Visit a botanical garden such as Jardin du Val Rahmeh or Fontana Rosa.
• Relax at Menton’s beaches or have a seafood lunch at a seaside restaurant.
  However, staying overnight lets you experience Menton’s quiet charm in the evening when most tourists leave.

kavalenkavadesign, Canva.com

Is Menton different from other French Riviera towns?

Yes, Menton stands out from other towns on the Riviera. Unlike Nice or Monaco, which attract large crowds and a fast-paced lifestyle, Menton has a more relaxed atmosphere. The city has a strong Italian influence, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and local dialect. It’s also known for its lush gardens and lemon groves, which add to its charm.

Menton offers everything for perfect holidays – coastal beauty, historical streets, and cultural richness without feeling overly touristy.

What makes Menton unique?

Menton is famous for its Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron), a vibrant annual event where the entire town transforms into a citrus-themed wonderland. Beyond that, it boasts stunning botanical gardens like Jardin Serre de la Madone and Jardin du Val Rahmeh, which are filled with exotic plants worldwide. The old town, with its pastel-colored buildings and steep alleyways, leads to Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, offering breathtaking coastline views. Menton’s location near the Italian border also adds to its unique character, making it a mix of French elegance and Italian warmth.

When is the best time to visit Menton?

The best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• February to March is the time to experience Menton’s world-famous Lemon Festival. The town comes alive with artistic citrus displays, parades, and festivities.
• Spring (April to June): Ideal for mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and fewer crowds. It’s perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the local markets.
• Summer (July to August): The busiest season with hot weather, beach activities, and vibrant nightlife. While popular, it remains quieter than Nice or Cannes.
• Autumn (September to November): A great time to visit for warm weather without the summer crowds. The Mediterranean waters are still pleasant for swimming.

Are the beaches in Menton good?

Menton has some of the cleanest and most peaceful beaches on the French Riviera. Unlike the more commercialized beaches in Nice, Menton’s coastline has a mix of sandy and pebble beaches with clear turquoise waters.

Some of the best beaches are:

• Plage des Sablettes: A scenic sandy beach near the old town with calm, shallow waters, ideal for swimming.
• Plage du Fossan: A well-maintained pebble beach with great views and amenities.
• Plage Rondelli: Located near the Italian border, this beach is perfect for sunbathing and relaxing.
  Since Menton’s beaches are less crowded, they are ideal for travelers looking for a more tranquil seaside experience.

Is Menton expensive?

Menton is relatively affordable compared to other French Riviera destinations like Monaco, Cannes, or Saint-Tropez. Accommodation, restaurants, and activities cost less, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want a Riviera experience without the high price tag.

• Hotels: You can find charming boutique hotels and budget-friendly stays, with mid-range options averaging €100 – €150 per night.
• Food: Local restaurants serve fresh seafood and Italian-influenced dishes at reasonable prices. A meal at a good restaurant costs around €20 – €30 per person.
• Activities: Menton’s attractions, like the old town and beaches, are free. Entry to botanical gardens and museums is usually under €10.

Menton offers excellent value if you are looking for a relaxing getaway or a budget-friendly alternative to more expensive Riviera towns.