Tucked between the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the mountains that separate France from Italy, Menton is one of the French Riviera’s most beautiful and underrated destinations. Often overshadowed by glamorous neighbours such as Nice, Monaco and Cannes, Menton rewards visitors with colourful streets, elegant gardens, historic architecture and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere that feels distinctly different from the rest of the Côte d’Azur.

Known as the “Pearl of France,” Menton enjoys one of the mildest climates in Europe, allowing exotic plants, citrus trees and subtropical gardens to flourish throughout the year. The town’s famous pastel-coloured Old Town rises dramatically above the waterfront, creating one of the Riviera’s most recognisable skylines, while palm-lined promenades, pebble beaches and lively cafés invite visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery.

Whether you’re spending a day here while travelling along the coast or planning a longer stay, there’s plenty to keep you busy. You can explore medieval streets, relax beside the sea, visit world-class gardens, enjoy museums dedicated to famous artists and admire breathtaking coastal views from high above the town. Food lovers will also appreciate Menton’s excellent restaurants, bustling markets and its long-standing connection with lemons, celebrated every year during the internationally famous Fête du Citron.

This guide brings together the very best things to do in Menton, helping you discover why this charming Riviera town deserves far more than just a brief stop between Monaco and Italy.

Attraction	Time Needed	Admission	Best For
Old Town (Vieille Ville)	1-2 hours	Free to explore	Wandering & photography
Les Sablettes Beach	Half a day	Free (public beach)	Swimming & relaxing
Little Tourist Train	45 minutes	Paid ticket	First-time visitors
Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange	30-45 minutes	Free entry	Panoramic views & architecture
Jean Cocteau Museum	1-1.5 hours	Paid entry	Art lovers
Serre de la Madone Gardens	1-2 hours	Paid entry	Botanical gardens & tranquillity
Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden	1 hour	Paid entry	Exotic & tropical plants
Old Château Cemetery	30-45 minutes	Free entry	The best panoramic views in Menton
Sentier du Littoral to Cap Martin	Around 2 hours (round trip)	Free	Coastal walking & scenery

Wander Through Menton’s Colourful Old Town

If there’s one place that defines Menton, it’s the magnificent Old Town (Vieille Ville). Rising steeply from the seafront, this maze of narrow alleyways, colourful houses and hidden staircases is one of the most picturesque historic centres anywhere on the French Riviera.

Rather than following a fixed route, allow yourself time to wander. Around almost every corner you’ll discover flower-filled balconies, painted shutters, tiny artisan shops and quiet squares where local residents still gather beneath the shade of centuries-old buildings. The streets gradually climb towards the basilica at the summit, rewarding you with increasingly spectacular views across the rooftops and out over the Mediterranean.

Photography enthusiasts will find endless opportunities here. The warm pastel colours of the buildings contrast beautifully with the deep blue sea, particularly during the golden light of early morning or late afternoon. Keep an eye out for hidden archways, decorative fountains and small cafés where you can pause with a coffee while watching everyday life unfold.

Although parts of the Old Town involve steep steps and narrow streets, exploring on foot is undoubtedly the best way to appreciate its character. Every turn reveals another postcard-worthy scene, making this one of the most memorable places to visit anywhere on the Côte d’Azur.

Relax on Les Sablettes Beach

Located immediately below the Old Town, Les Sablettes Beach is Menton’s most popular stretch of coastline and one of the easiest places to enjoy the Mediterranean. Recently redeveloped with attractive promenades, landscaped gardens and modern facilities, it provides a wonderful place to relax while remaining only a few minutes’ walk from the town’s main attractions.

Like many beaches along the French Riviera, Les Sablettes is made up of smooth pebbles rather than sand, resulting in remarkably clear water that’s ideal for swimming and snorkelling. During the summer months the sea is pleasantly warm, while the surrounding mountains provide a spectacular backdrop rarely matched elsewhere along the Mediterranean coast.

The beachfront is lined with restaurants, cafés and ice cream parlours, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon here. Whether you’re enjoying lunch overlooking the sea, taking a refreshing swim or simply watching boats drift across the bay, there’s always something happening along the waterfront.

Because the beach sits beside both the Old Port and the Old Town, it’s also perfectly positioned for combining sightseeing with relaxation. Many visitors begin the morning exploring Menton’s historic streets before cooling off with a swim or enjoying an evening stroll along the promenade as the sun sets behind the surrounding hills.

Discover Menton on the Little Tourist Train

If you’re visiting Menton for the first time, the Little Tourist Train offers one of the easiest and most enjoyable introductions to the town. Lasting approximately 45 minutes, this guided tour allows you to see many of Menton’s highlights without tackling the steep hills of the Old Town on foot.

Departing from the heart of Menton, the train winds through the historic centre before passing Les Sablettes Beach, elegant seafront gardens and some of the town’s most scenic streets. Along the way you’ll enjoy panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea while learning about Menton’s fascinating history, culture and architecture through commentary available in English, French and Italian.

One of the greatest advantages of the tour is that it reaches viewpoints many visitors might otherwise miss. As the route climbs above the town, you’ll enjoy outstanding views across Menton’s colourful rooftops, the harbour and the coastline stretching towards both Monaco and Italy. It’s an excellent way to appreciate the layout of the town before deciding which areas you’d like to explore in more detail afterwards.

Suitable for families, couples, solo travellers and visitors of all ages, the Little Tourist Train operates several departures each day and provides a comfortable sightseeing experience for anyone wanting to discover Menton without spending hours walking in the Riviera sunshine. For many first-time visitors, it’s the perfect way to begin a day exploring one of France’s most charming coastal towns.

Climb to the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange

Standing proudly above the rooftops of the Old Town, the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange is Menton’s most recognisable landmark. With its impressive Baroque façade, elegant bell tower and commanding hilltop position, it dominates the skyline and can be seen from almost every part of the town.

The climb to the basilica is part of the experience. As you make your way through the winding lanes of the Old Town, you’ll pass colourful houses, hidden courtyards and picturesque staircases before emerging into the beautiful Place de la Conception, one of Menton’s most attractive squares. Take your time along the way, as the views become increasingly spectacular with every step.

Inside, the basilica is surprisingly peaceful. The richly decorated interior features ornate altars, fine artwork and impressive architectural details dating back to the seventeenth century. Even if you’re not particularly interested in religious buildings, the craftsmanship and atmosphere make it well worth a visit.

The real reward, however, awaits outside. From the church steps you’ll enjoy some of the best panoramic views in Menton, looking across the pastel-coloured Old Town, the marina, the Mediterranean and, on a clear day, the coastline stretching towards Italy. It’s one of the city’s finest photo locations and an essential stop for anyone exploring Menton.

Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum

Art lovers should make time for the Jean Cocteau Museum, one of Menton’s most distinctive cultural attractions. Dedicated to the celebrated French artist, writer and filmmaker, the museum houses the largest public collection of works by Jean Cocteau, who developed a lifelong affection for Menton and left a lasting artistic legacy throughout the town.

The striking contemporary building contrasts beautifully with the historic surroundings, while inside you’ll discover a fascinating collection of drawings, paintings, ceramics, tapestries and personal items that chart Cocteau’s remarkably diverse career. The exhibitions also help explain his close relationship with Menton and why the town became such an important source of inspiration.

Even visitors with little prior knowledge of Cocteau often find themselves captivated by his imaginative style and extraordinary creativity. Temporary exhibitions are regularly held alongside the permanent displays, meaning there’s often something new to discover on repeat visits.

Located close to the seafront, the museum is easy to combine with a walk around the Old Port, Les Sablettes Beach or the Old Town, making it a worthwhile addition to any sightseeing itinerary.

Explore the Exotic Serre de la Madone Gardens

Hidden away on the hillside above Menton, the Serre de la Madone Gardens are among the most beautiful botanical gardens on the French Riviera. Created by the English horticulturist Lawrence Johnston, the gardens blend rare plants, elegant landscaping and peaceful water features to create a tranquil escape from the busy coastline.

As you wander through the grounds you’ll encounter subtropical plants, towering palms, colourful flowers, ornamental ponds and shaded pathways that reveal something different around every corner. The gardens are carefully designed to take advantage of Menton’s exceptionally mild climate, allowing species from around the world to flourish here.

Unlike some of the Riviera’s busier attractions, Serre de la Madone remains wonderfully peaceful. Visitors can spend an hour or two strolling through the beautifully maintained landscape, listening to birdsong and enjoying magnificent views towards the surrounding mountains.

Spring is an especially rewarding time to visit, when many plants are in full bloom, although the gardens remain attractive throughout the year thanks to the diversity of species growing within them. If you appreciate nature, photography or simply quiet places away from the crowds, this is one of Menton’s hidden gems.

Discover the Beautiful Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden

Another of Menton’s outstanding gardens is the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, a spectacular collection of exotic plants located just a short walk from the seafront. Originally created in the nineteenth century, the garden is now managed by the French National Museum of Natural History and contains one of the finest collections of tropical and subtropical plants in Europe.

Walking through the garden feels like travelling across several continents. You’ll encounter giant bamboo, banana trees, palms, lotus ponds, flowering shrubs and rare species collected from Asia, South America, Africa and Oceania. The combination of lush vegetation, shaded paths and colourful blooms creates an atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling Riviera promenade nearby.

Interpretation panels throughout the garden explain the significance of many of the plants, making the visit both relaxing and educational. The peaceful setting also attracts butterflies and birds, adding to the sense of tranquillity as you explore.

Because both Val Rahmeh and Serre de la Madone offer completely different styles of garden, they’re well worth visiting together if you have time. They showcase another side of Menton that many visitors overlook and help explain why the town has earned an international reputation for its exceptional botanical collections.

Stroll Along the Promenade du Soleil

One of the simplest yet most enjoyable things to do in Menton is to walk the Promenade du Soleil, the elegant seafront promenade that follows the Mediterranean coastline through the heart of the town. Stretching beside the beaches, palm trees and colourful hotels, it’s the perfect place to experience Menton’s wonderfully relaxed Riviera atmosphere.

The promenade is popular from early morning until late evening. You’ll find walkers, cyclists, joggers and families enjoying the sea air, while cafés and restaurants provide countless opportunities to stop for a coffee, a leisurely lunch or a drink overlooking the water.

As you stroll along the waterfront you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views across the Mediterranean Sea, with the mountains rising dramatically behind the town. On clear days it’s easy to understand why Menton has become one of the most sought-after destinations on the French Riviera. The changing light throughout the day constantly transforms the scenery, making every walk feel slightly different.

The promenade also connects many of Menton’s best attractions, including Les Sablettes Beach, the Old Port, the Jean Cocteau Museum and the Old Town, making it an excellent route for exploring without needing transport. Whether you’re beginning your day or finishing it with a spectacular sunset, the Promenade du Soleil is somewhere you’ll almost certainly return to more than once.

Visit Menton’s Covered Market

Food lovers should make time for Marché des Halles, Menton’s attractive covered market and one of the best places to experience everyday life in the town. Housed inside a beautiful nineteenth-century building close to the Old Town, the market has been serving local residents for generations and remains one of Menton’s liveliest meeting places.

Inside you’ll discover stalls overflowing with fresh fruit, Mediterranean vegetables, artisan cheeses, fresh seafood, Italian delicacies, charcuterie, olives, herbs and locally produced specialities. Thanks to Menton’s location only a few kilometres from Italy, the market reflects influences from both countries, creating a fascinating mix of flavours that is unique to this part of the Riviera.

The market is an excellent place to sample regional products, speak with local producers and perhaps put together a picnic before heading to the beach or one of the nearby gardens. Many traders are happy to explain their produce, and you’ll often find seasonal fruit grown in the surrounding hills.

Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, wandering through the market is an experience in itself. The colourful displays, lively conversations and delicious aromas provide an authentic glimpse into local life that many visitors miss.

Discover Menton’s Famous Lemon Heritage

No visit to Menton would be complete without learning about the town’s extraordinary connection with lemons. Thanks to its exceptionally mild climate, Menton has been cultivating citrus fruit for centuries, producing lemons that are renowned for their fragrance, sweetness and high-quality essential oils.

You’ll notice lemons everywhere as you explore the town. They appear in local desserts, artisan jams, liqueurs, chocolates, soaps, perfumes and even decorative souvenirs found throughout the Old Town. Many shops proudly celebrate Menton’s citrus-growing tradition, making it easy to take home a unique local product.

The town’s most famous celebration is the spectacular Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), held each year during February. During the festival, enormous sculptures built from thousands of lemons and oranges fill the streets and gardens, accompanied by parades, music and illuminated evening processions. It has become one of the largest and most distinctive festivals anywhere in France, attracting visitors from around the world.

Even outside festival season, Menton’s citrus heritage remains a defining part of its identity. Sampling locally produced lemon products is one of the easiest ways to experience a tradition that has shaped the town for generations.

Explore Menton’s Historic Old Port

Sheltered beneath the colourful Old Town, Menton’s Old Port (Vieux Port) is one of the prettiest harbours on the French Riviera. Although smaller than the marinas found in nearby Monaco or Nice, it has retained a welcoming, authentic atmosphere where fishing boats sit alongside elegant yachts against a backdrop of pastel-coloured buildings and the Mediterranean Sea.

Walking around the harbour is a wonderfully relaxing experience. Fishing boats gently bob alongside the quays while cafés and restaurants overlook the water, providing excellent places to enjoy fresh seafood as you watch boats come and go. The views back towards the Old Town are particularly impressive, with the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange rising above the colourful rooftops.

The harbour also provides access to several waterfront walks and is a popular starting point for exploring Les Sablettes Beach, the Promenade du Soleil and the narrow streets of the historic centre. Photographers will find countless opportunities here, especially during the early morning or at sunset when the warm Mediterranean light reflects beautifully across the water.

Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely stroll, stopping for lunch or simply watching life unfold around the marina, Menton’s Old Port perfectly captures the relaxed charm that makes this corner of the Côte d’Azur so appealing.

Climb to the Old Château Cemetery for the Best Views in Menton

If you’re prepared for a short uphill walk, the Old Château Cemetery (Cimetière du Vieux Château) rewards you with what are arguably the finest panoramic views in Menton. Located on the hill above the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange, this peaceful historic cemetery occupies the site of Menton’s former medieval castle, which once defended the town from attacks along the Mediterranean coast.

Today, very little remains of the original fortress, but the location is worth visiting for the scenery alone. From the terraces surrounding the cemetery you’ll enjoy breathtaking views across Menton’s colourful Old Town, Les Sablettes Beach, the Old Port, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea and the dramatic mountains rising behind the French Riviera. On a clear day you can even see along the coastline towards Italy and Monaco.

The cemetery itself is quiet, beautifully maintained and filled with ornate nineteenth-century monuments, family mausoleums and historic graves that reflect Menton’s long and fascinating history. The peaceful atmosphere makes it feel far removed from the busy streets below, despite being only a few minutes’ walk from the town centre.

The climb involves a number of steep steps, so comfortable footwear is recommended, especially during the warmer months. Early morning and late afternoon provide the most pleasant temperatures and the most beautiful light for photography. If you’re looking for that perfect postcard view of Menton, this is the place to find it.

Walk the Sentier du Littoral to Cap Martin

One of the most spectacular coastal walks on the French Riviera begins just outside Menton. The Sentier du Littoral, also known as Le Corbusier Walk, follows the rocky coastline towards Cap Martin, offering uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean and some of the most beautiful scenery in southern France.

The route combines boardwalks, rocky coastal paths and sections carved into the cliffs, allowing walkers to experience the Riviera from a completely different perspective. Along the way you’ll pass hidden coves, crystal-clear water, dramatic rock formations and elegant villas tucked among the pine trees, while the constant sound of the waves provides the perfect soundtrack to your walk.

The route to Cap Martin is approximately 3 kilometres each way, with most visitors taking around one hour to reach the peninsula, although you’ll probably want to allow longer to stop for photographs and admire the scenery. The path is generally well maintained but includes uneven surfaces in places, making comfortable walking shoes a sensible choice.

Don’t forget to bring plenty of water, particularly during the summer months, as sections of the walk have very little shade. If you’d prefer a shorter outing, simply walk as far as you like before returning to Menton. Alternatively, you can continue towards Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and return by local bus or train.

For nature lovers and photographers, this is one of the most rewarding walks anywhere on the Côte d’Azur, combining rugged coastal scenery with magnificent views back towards Menton’s colourful skyline.

Sample Traditional Mentonnais Cuisine

Exploring Menton wouldn’t be complete without discovering the flavours that make this part of the French Riviera so distinctive. Sitting just a few kilometres from the Italian border, Menton’s cuisine blends French traditions with Italian influences, creating dishes that are both fresh and full of Mediterranean character.

Seafood naturally features heavily on local menus. Restaurants around the Old Port and Promenade du Soleil serve freshly caught fish, mussels, prawns and other seasonal specialities, often accompanied by locally grown vegetables and olive oil produced in the surrounding hills.

Menton is equally famous for its citrus-inspired dishes. You’ll find lemon tarts, lemon sorbet, artisan ice cream, homemade lemonade, citrus liqueurs and even savoury recipes featuring the town’s celebrated lemons. Many cafés also prepare desserts using Menton lemons, offering a flavour that’s noticeably sweeter and more fragrant than many commercially grown varieties.

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy a leisurely meal on an outdoor terrace overlooking the sea or one of the picturesque squares in the Old Town. Whether you’re sampling fresh seafood, traditional Provençal recipes or locally produced citrus treats, dining in Menton is an experience that perfectly complements the town’s relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle.

Rupert’s Handy Travel Tips

Menton’s steep Old Town and coastal walks reward a little planning, so here are my top tips for making the most of France’s “Pearl of the Riviera.”

Wear comfortable shoes: the Old Town and the Old Château Cemetery both involve steep steps, so trainers or walking shoes will serve you far better than sandals.
Visit gardens in the morning: Serre de la Madone and Val Rahmeh are at their most peaceful early in the day, before the heat and crowds build up.
Time a visit around the Lemon Festival: if you’re travelling in February, book accommodation well ahead, as the Fête du Citron draws visitors from across Europe.
Carry water on the Sentier du Littoral: much of the coastal path to Cap Martin has little shade, so it’s essential in the warmer months.
Hop across the border easily: Ventimiglia in Italy is under 15 minutes away, making Menton a great base for exploring both countries in one trip.

Want to meet the reindeer behind our travel tips? Find out more in our page Who is Rupert?.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best thing to do in Menton?
For many visitors, simply exploring Menton’s colourful Old Town is the highlight of any trip. The narrow medieval streets, pastel-coloured buildings, hidden squares and spectacular sea views perfectly capture the charm of the French Riviera.

Is Menton worth visiting?
Absolutely. Menton is one of the most beautiful towns on the Côte d’Azur, combining Mediterranean beaches, historic architecture, outstanding gardens and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere. It is often quieter than nearby Monaco and Nice, making it an excellent destination for both day trips and longer stays.

How many days do you need in Menton?
A full day is enough to see Menton’s main attractions, but two or three days allows you to explore the gardens, enjoy the beaches, walk the Sentier du Littoral, visit museums and experience the town at a much more relaxed pace.

Can you swim in Menton?
Yes. Menton has several excellent Mediterranean beaches, including Les Sablettes Beach, where the clear water is ideal for swimming during the warmer months.

What is Menton famous for?
Menton is famous for its lemons, colourful Old Town, beautiful subtropical gardens and the internationally renowned Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), which takes place every February.

Is Menton walkable?
Yes. Most of Menton’s attractions are within walking distance of one another. The Old Town is best explored on foot, while the seafront promenade and harbour make for pleasant walks. Be prepared for some steep streets and staircases when exploring the historic centre.

Can you visit Italy from Menton?
Yes. Menton sits just a few kilometres from the Italian border, making it easy to visit towns such as Ventimiglia by train, bus or car in less than 15 minutes.

When is the best time to visit Menton?
Spring and early autumn offer warm weather with fewer crowds, while summer is ideal for beaches and swimming. February is particularly popular thanks to the spectacular Lemon Festival, one of France’s most famous annual events.

Last Updated

August 2026

We regularly review this guide to ensure opening times, attraction information, ticket prices and practical travel advice remain as accurate and up to date as possible. As events, exhibitions and seasonal activities can change, we recommend checking with the relevant attraction before travelling.

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Tagged:Europe - Western France French Riviera & Provence

Rupert

Globetrotter (60+ countries) & Bow-Tie enthusiast. Hotel pillow connoisseur, breakfast buffet enthusiast, and firm believer in the window seat. Loves exploring off the beaten track followed by a decent slice of cake.