Menton Travel Guide French Riviera
Menton Travel Guide: A Sun-Drenched Escape on the French Riviera
Tucked between Monaco and the Italian border, Menton is a radiant coastal village where pastel buildings glow in the golden sun and citrus trees scent the air. Often called the “Pearl of the French Riviera”, Menton is one of southern France’s best-kept secrets, offering a slower, softer rhythm that invites you to savor life’s simplest pleasures.
Whether you’re basking on its serene beaches, wandering cobblestone lanes, or enjoying a glass of rosé at sunset, Menton embodies the joie de vivre that defines this region of the world.
In Menton, the sun lingers a little longer, the lemons grow a little sweeter,
and time slows just enough for you to taste life.
Getting to Menton by Train from Nice
Traveling to Menton is as effortless as it is scenic.
From Nice Ville Station, board a regional TER train heading east toward Ventimiglia (Italy). Trains run frequently, typically every 30 minutes, and the journey takes around 40 minutes—with mesmerizing views of the Mediterranean coastline the entire way.
- Train Cost: Around €5–€8 one-way
- Travel Tip: Sit on the right side of the train for the best sea views!
Once you arrive at Gare de Menton, the town center and seafront are just a short walk away.
Beaches in Menton: Relax in Riviera Style
Menton’s beaches are peaceful, sun-kissed, and far less crowded than those in Nice or Cannes—making them ideal for a relaxing day by the sea. Here are two beaches we visited during our day trip.
- Plage des Sablettes – A beautiful sandy beach near the Old Town with calm, shallow water and a promenade lined with cafés.
- Plage du Fossan – Centrally located and family-friendly, with pebbly shores and clear water.
Bring a book, a towel, and take your time – the sea has its own schedule here!
A Village Steeped in Sunshine and Joy
With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, Menton boasts a climate that nurtures both lemons and laughter. The Italian influence is everywhere—in the food, architecture, and laid-back lifestyle.
As you stroll the narrow alleyways of the Old Town (Vieux Menton), you’ll find charming squares, historic churches, hidden gardens, and breathtaking views over terracotta rooftops.
Here, life unfolds slowly. A morning espresso on a sunlit terrace, an afternoon swim, a sunset apérol – it’s the kind of place that teaches you how to be present.
Things to Do in Menton: Culture, Citrus & Coastal Charm
While Menton invites you to slow down and simply soak in the sunshine, there’s no shortage of meaningful things to explore. From citrus gardens to art museums, this coastal village offers a balance of relaxation, discovery, and beauty.
Explore Old Town (Vieux Menton)
Wander through a maze of narrow pastel alleyways, discover shuttered balconies draped in bougainvillea, and let your steps lead you to Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange, perched above the sea. This baroque church offers panoramic views and a glimpse into Menton’s rich heritage.
Perched high above the pastel rooftops of Menton, the Cemetery of the Old Château is one of the town’s most serene and stunningly situated landmarks. The cemetery offers a peaceful resting place adorned with ornate tombs, sculptural monuments, and intricate ironwork—each a testament to the town’s layered history. From its terraces, visitors are treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Italian border, and the mountains that cradle the Côte d’Azur. It’s a place where architecture, memory, and nature come together in quiet reverence.
Tip: Head here in the early evening when the sun casts golden light across the terracotta rooftops.
Visit the Jardin Serre de la Madone
This hidden botanical oasis in the hills of Menton is a must-see for garden lovers. Originally designed by British botanist Lawrence Johnston, this romantic garden bursts with exotic plants, shaded paths, and citrus groves—perfectly echoing Menton’s legacy as the Lemon Capital of France.
Jean Cocteau Museum (Musée Jean Cocteau)
French artist Jean Cocteau fell in love with Menton, and this museum celebrates his eclectic work with modern architecture, dramatic coastal views, and rotating exhibits. Don’t miss his stunning murals in the nearby Salle des Mariages at Menton’s Town Hall.
Stroll the Promenade du Soleil
Take in the sparkling sea and breezy palm-lined views along this iconic coastal promenade. Whether you walk, cycle, or just sit with a gelato, it’s the perfect way to slow down and savor the Riviera lifestyle.
Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival)
If you visit in February, you’re in for a treat: giant sculptures made entirely of lemons and oranges parade through the streets during Menton’s famous Fête du Citron. This citrus celebration is like no other—colorful, creative, and bursting with local pride.
- Farmer’s Market at Les Halles
- Day trip ideas to Nice, Èze, Monaco, and Ventimiglia, Italy
