Menton is often called the “Pearl of France,” and once you arrive in this pastel-hued town on the Côte d’Azur, you quickly understand why. Nestled against the Italian border and sheltered by the Maritime Alps, Menton enjoys a subtropical microclimate that keeps it warm and sunny for over 300 days a year. Unlike the glitzier neighboring cities of Monaco and Nice, Menton moves at a slower, more authentic pace, inviting travelers to wander its steep staircases, hidden gardens, and quiet squares without the crushing summer crowds.
This charming border town is famous for its lemons, which thrive in the warm winter air and have become the symbol of the city’s vibrant Fête du Citron. But beyond the citrus groves, Menton offers a rich tapestry of art, architecture, and maritime heritage that rivals any destination on the French Riviera. Whether you are visiting for a day trip or settling in for a week, the town’s manageable size makes it easy to explore on foot while discovering layers of Italian and French influence.
Because Menton sits at the crossroads of two cultures, the local cuisine, the baroque architecture, and even the spoken dialect reflect a beautiful blend of French elegance and Italian warmth. The old town’s narrow lanes climb steeply from the sea, rewarding those who venture upward with breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, the seafront promenade offers a flat, palm-lined stroll that feels effortlessly Mediterranean and endlessly photogenic.
For the practical traveler, Menton is well connected by train and bus, making it an ideal base for exploring the wider Riviera without needing a car. The town is compact enough to navigate easily, yet it packs in an impressive number of museums, gardens, and historic sites that can fill several unhurried days. Planning your itinerary around the changing light—mornings for gardens, late afternoons for the beach—will help you experience the town at its most beautiful.
The best way to experience Menton is to embrace its slow rhythm. This is not a destination for rushing from one landmark to the next, but rather a place to linger over a café crème, get lost in a lemon-scented garden, and watch the sun set over the bay. With that in mind, here are the essential experiences and attractions you should not miss when visiting this sun-drenched corner of France.
Here are the best things to do in Menton, from iconic gardens to hidden local favorites that reveal the true character of the town.
Jardin botanique Val Rahmeh-Menton
| Address | Av. Saint-Jacques, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 35 86 72 |
This hidden gem of the city is simply amazing. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by the stunning array of plants throughout the garden. It’s beautifully layered, offering shaded spots to relax even on the hottest days. There’s even a refreshing water fountain to fill up your bottles. The prices are incredibly reasonable! We were even more impressed after learning about the garden’s rich history. A bonus is the short walk from the beach. Just be warned, we found it a bit too late! There’s also a free park nearby if you fancy a picnic 🧺 The friendly and English-speaking staff make the experience even better. For those who prefer not to walk, a nearby bus stop is available but you’ll need to check the schedule beforehand. Overall, it’s absolutely worth the visit!
The villa is quite beautiful the gardens especially, the weather wasnt that scorching but its very hot inside the villa and during the walk, the only refreshments we could find were ofcourse overpriced. All in all its a nice experience but wouldn’t have done it if i would go back in time and would rather find something else to do.
A very beautiful botanical garden, informally arranged, easy to explore along marked and maintained paths. I love gardens and I saw some new plants, which makes me very happy, so I recommend it to others.
Great botanical garden to visit. We wandered around for a hour or 2. Lots to see and everything is kept nice and clean.
Mosquitoes are a thing ( everywhere in this region!! ) but they offer free repellent at the reception.
Absolutely beautiful gardens and well worth the walk over. Stunning
Jardins Biovès
| Address | Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 83 93 70 20 |
Visited Jardin Biovès during the Fête du Citron and it was absolutely stunning! The giant sculptures made entirely of lemons and oranges are incredibly detailed and creative. The colors, the citrus scent in the air, and the festive atmosphere make it such a unique experience.
Very well organized and perfect for families or couples. If you’re in Menton in February, this is a must see! 🍋✨
In 2026 a monumental statue depicting Gaia, the Greek goddess and nurturing mother of Earth, appeared in the annual Lemon Festival (Fête du Citron) in Biovès Gardens at Menton, France. Menton boosts the largest collection of citrus trees in Europe with over 100 varieties. Every year since 1934, a festival has taken place here around Mardi Gras with lemon and orange-studded floats and sculptures. "The Russian Falconer" or "Berkut Hunt" statue in Biovès Gardens was gifted by Tsar Alexander III. This year it rose next to a giraffe sculpture. A gigantic parrot constructed of lemons and oranges also emerged from the gardens.
Jardins Biovès offers a picturesque walkway adorned in delightful Christmas decorations. The serene ambiance invites leisurely strolls, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the festive spirit.
The addition of a toy train for children adds an extra touch of enchantment, making it a family-friendly destination. The well-maintained pathways and vibrant decor create a magical atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed outing amidst the holiday cheer.
Jardins Biovès proves to be a delightful retreat, blending scenic beauty with festive joy for all ages to enjoy
No idea how it looks like without lemon sculptures but with them it’s great and one can enjoy the installations free of charge. Amazing work of art they are, and different every year 🤩
Menton was a city of lemon and oranges!! It was a glorious festival I’ll share with you my favorite ones..
Rampes Saint-Michel
| Address | Rpe Saint-Michel, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
The Rampes Saint-Michel are one of Menton's most magical places. Climbing these elegant Baroque staircases feels like stepping back in time, with every turn revealing beautiful architecture and stunning views of the Mediterranean. The atmosphere is peaceful, timeless, and especially enchanting in the warm evening light. A must-visit for anyone who loves history, photography, and hidden gems on the French Riviera. Highly recommended!
A truly beautiful and picturesque place! I highly recommend walking up the ramps and taking your time to explore the area. The architecture is stunning, the atmosphere is charming, and there are amazing spots for photos. It's definitely one of the must-visit places in Menton. Don't miss it!
We visited Menton with a group. The Rampes Saint Michael were a must see attraction. I think it was worth it. The view was great and the colours straight out of a painting. Definitely worth a visit, but more a fly-by attraction than a proper visit!
Pleasantly surprised. I thought that I could skip over these steps and that they’d feel like a tourist trap. However, they were actually quite charming and had a “snapshot” POV of the ocean. The walk only takes a couple minutes — I suggest going after 7pm when the crowd is a bit more quiet!
Amazing views when you get to the top of the steps, Menton is truly an amazing place and gives you true visualisation of what south of France should be. Definitely going back one day.
Basilique Saint-Michel Archange de Menton
| Address | Place de l'Eglise, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 3:00 – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 3:00 – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 3:00 – 5:00 PM Thursday: 3:00 – 5:00 PM Friday: 3:00 – 5:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 – 5:00 PM Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
A breathtaking Baroque church that is the true heart of Menton's old town. The beautiful façade is impressive, but the richly decorated interior is even more stunning, filled with remarkable artwork and peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a quiet place to reflect, this basilica is a must-visit. A truly beautiful and unforgettable landmark. ⛪✨
The Basilique Saint-Michel Archange is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Menton and a must-visit when exploring the old town. Perched high above the colorful streets, the basilica is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful interior, and incredible views overlooking the Mediterranean. The climb through the charming narrow streets is well worth it, and the peaceful atmosphere inside offers a wonderful contrast to the lively town below. Whether you appreciate history, architecture, or simply beautiful scenery, this historic church is one of the highlights of Menton.
Situated high above the town, overlooking the bay the Basilique dominates its surroundings. It is a true place of worship and deserves to be treated as such. The feeling of sanctity envelopes you the moment you step over the threshold. There are no shops or commercial teasers to corrupt the purity of the building, letting it speak for itself as you gaze in awe at the wonderful art on the ceilings and in the individual chapels around the sides. The stations of the cross are perhaps the best I've seen, telling the story of Jesus' last days in sculptured figurines. It almost demands you sit and reflect on how you live and conduct yourself.
A magnificent historical gem in Menton! The interior of this Baroque basilica is profoundly beautiful, especially the ornate main altar .The detailed sculpture of St. Michael standing tall amidst the grand gilded columns and organ pipes is a sight to behold. It is a very peaceful place to step out of the sun, slow down, and appreciate the incredible craftsmanship. Don't skip this if you're exploring the historic center!
I definitely think it’s a place that must be seen. You can capture incredibly beautiful photos here—they turn out amazing. It’s an experience you should absolutely have.
Serre de la Madone
| Address | 74 Rte du Val de Gorbio, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 28 35 94 |
Beautiful garden with a lot to look at. For us, even with the great variety of trees and plants, the most fascinating aspects were not necessarily the botanical side of it as much as the architecture and how the trees etc are integrated into it. We loved to take a paus under the shade in the beautiful belvedere, which offers a lovely view over the villa (which was not open during our visit) and it's surroundings. Even though the garden is divided in different areas it has a lovely wild charm to it, everything flows into everything else.
We also loved looking at (and listen to) the frogs in the numerous ponds 🙂
There's a small reception with some drinks and gift shop options. The receptionist gave us great info and a free map of the area.
Note: You will do a lot of walking up and down pretty steep steps, which could be good to keep in mind.
Lovely garden with an interesting history. In early spring, the garden is uncrowded and you can experience it as the original owner did, enjoying the views and relaxing on one of the moss-covered benches. Be aware that the property is located on a slope and there are many flights of stone steps throughout the garden. The bus stop is directly at the garden entrance, but the bus schedule is not great, so coming by car makes for easier access.
Truly hidden gem! Beautiful garden with lots of rare plants and unique landscapes. I didn't expect to see the garden designed by Lawrence Jhonston in South France! If you have an interest in garden history this is the place for you.
Yes, it’s a bit wild but the design is good and the plant collection is interesting and beautiful even in winter. We had a lovely time wandering the many paths. There is a small car park - on a Saturday in early February there were empty spaces - but it’s walkable from the town centre. There’s a short stretch just before the garden entrance with no footpath, the rest is footpath all the way.
Exceptional garden with exceptional staff
Le Petit Train Touristique de Menton by FRANCE Voguette
| Address | 1780 Prom. du Soleil, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 42 72 21 70 |
One of the best Petit trains we have taken. Great 45m tour of the sea side, old town, mountain side and city. They provide head sets with a very informative audio in different languages.
We are spending a month in Menton, and did last May as well, so we are fairly acquainted with the area. The audio narrative that accompanied the ride was, however, insightful and revealed details behind sights we had seen. The information regarding Dr. Voronoff's place was amusing and interesting. We pass the City Hall all the time, but never realized what was inside. We had never traversed one of the narrow streets that the train passed through. All-in-all, it is something I would recommend. But, the audio set did not fit properly and I had to keep pressing it against my ears to hear it adequately.
Train is driving to fast( very warm 1 july 26) is not stopping or slowing down at nice locations to get a picture, and the route is not spectactular very bumpy! driver was nice and helpfull
This ride was a welcome sanctuary to explore the town on a scorching summer day! We loved it. Merci
Had a wonderful experience. Hassle free booking great staff and a must do when in Menton!
Vieux Port de Menton
| Address | Quai Napoléon III, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 92 01 07 30 |
Such a beautiful city, so rich and inspiring. We really enjoyed every single min. The narrow streets, the brach and the stairs and many attractive shops made the day trip from nice really a memorable event.
The city is compact so 1 day should be enough… endless beaches
Enjoy,
The Vieux Port de Menton is a beautiful and peaceful harbor that perfectly captures the charm of the French Riviera. Surrounded by colorful buildings, the old town, and views of the Mediterranean, it is a wonderful place to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the scenery. The combination of fishing boats, sailboats, waterfront views, and the backdrop of Menton’s historic streets creates a picturesque atmosphere that feels both authentic and relaxing. It is a lovely spot to slow down, take photos, and appreciate the unique beauty of Menton beyond the beaches.
Menton, France, sits at the east end of the French Riviera within sight of the Italian border. Less pretentious than Monaco, Nice or Cannes, Mention still exudes the fashionable glamour of the Côte d’Azur. The Basilique Saint-Michel (1653) overlooking the port was erected in the Baroque style by a Genoese architect at a time when the area was under the control of the Grimaldi family of Monaco.
There was a fair going on near the port, but once you were through that, it was a beautiful port town. The streets are full of the hustle and bustle of town life, but the views and architecture are undeniably stunning. I wish I could have spent longer exploring. I will definitely be back in this town. There are so many places for you to choose from for coffee, food, and ice cream on a warm day. I'd recommend making a visit here for the day. It's beautiful 😍
Menton is a lovely small city in the south of France that has the best of everything, lovely climate year-round, gardens, excellent French and Italian food, white-sand beaches and the wonderful aquamarine Mediterranean sea.
The old town is colorful and full of history. It's fascinating old town!
Plage des Sablettes
| Address | des Sablettes, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | 04 92 10 50 00 |
A beautiful beach in the town of Menton. Take a dip in the warm crystal clear waters with the old town in the background. When swimming out into the sea, you have a view of Italy on your left, Monaco on your right, and the old town of Menton in the back. Like most beaches in the area, it is rocky, so beach shoes are recommended. There is a yellow round kiosk with free lockers to store your valuables. There is also a free public bathroom in one of the archways, next to the stairs. There are a bunch of restaurants on the promenade but the ones we tried were ok, at best. Read the reviews first.
Amazing setting! Beautiful buildings, mountains, beach, & water! Very clean and not over crowded at least not in May of 2025 🙂 & it’s free! Lots of places to shop, drink, or eat nearby
This beach area is very nice. There are a lot of small shops to eat and amazing views of the water and mountains. This area is very built up with seemingly all new architecture on the boardwalk, by that I mean new benches and walk ways.
This place is amazing! A lot of great benches and seats to relax. You have a nice beach in front of you and some amazing architecture behind you!
Not much shade, managed to find a bush. Lovely water, very clear and no waves. Nice views of city. Beach has small rocks, not much sand.
Vue de Menton
| Address | 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
The city I mostly loved during our visit to French Riviera, totally worth to stay at leat one night
Great food at the port, fantastic view
Beautiful beach with marina on one side. I'm sure it's lovely here in the summer.
Nice place. A quaint town in the South of France known for it's multi coloured houses by the sea.
Lovely town but very crowded
Phare de Menton
| Address | Quai Napoléon III, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Beautiful clear waters where you can see the jelly fish! A lovely place to walk or relax.
Beautiful and romantic views of Menton in the evening. Nice and cool
Get the best view of the city when you walk to this point.
One the places we have visited
Super
Cimetière du Vieux Château
| Address | unu, Mnt du Souvenir, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
After Napoleon banned burials around churches in 1804, the site of a ruined medieval castle on a ridge above Menton, France, was selected to become the municipal cemetery. Over 1,300 19th century burials can be seen here. The towers of the Basilique Saint-Michel (left) and the Chapelle des Pénitents-Blancs (right) are visible from the cemetery.
Excellent cemetery, up on a hill right in the old town. Easy walk up the old stairs, old style path. Well signed. Drinking water (tap) up top, not much else.
Great views of sea, harbor, mountains, on both sides. Even a few benches to enjoy the solitude and the views, along with the permanent guests.
Very interesting monument work, some recent, some as old as 1885 (maybe older), some clean and polished, some falling apart, some obviously expensive, some humble. All tell a short small story of loss, that somebody at some time, cared.
Why I am a tombstone tourist at times? It is architecture, with art stones from different eras, the finely carved sculptures, they were meant to be seen and appreciated. I will always find something interesting about history as well. I am curious about the stories of the people whose lives are represented on the tombs. This peaceful abode's permanent residents include a Russian prince, the tomb of William Webb Ellis, legendary inventor of the sport. Aubrey Vincent Beardsley an English illustrator and author. Plus this lovely Kingdom of eternal rest has one of the most beautiful viewpoints of Menton. Look out over beautiful carved angels to the dazzling blue of the Mediterranean Sea💙.
Good historic cemetery. Easy to get to from the seaside. Go up the Orange staircases and when you get to the church, make a sharp right up more stairs. These stairs take you to the cemetery through very quaint alleys and houses. Very well worth the steps to get to the cemetery.
Menton has been attracting European vacationers and retirees for 150 years and many of them ended their days here. And it would be hard to find a more scenic spot for a last farewell. There are residents here from the USA to Russia and most points in between.
Many of the graves teeter on the brink of a precipice with no safeguarding for grieving relatives or inquisitive visitors but it is wildly beautiful.
The British section is on a lower level accessed by a gate to the right of the main entrance where you will find escapees from Stalybridge and Wimbledon resting in the Mediterranean sunshine. Joining them for a few moments quiet reflection is rewarding.
Jardin Exotique d’Èze
| Address | 20 Rue du Château, 06360 Èze |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 41 10 30 |
What a view!!! Exceptional and the best look-out in the area.
The gardens were experimentally busy and difficult in the heat. Steep steps, narrow streets and limited shade make for a challenging day.
Tickets were necessary.
The village is filled with shops and places to eat.
Only one public toilet (paid) at the bottom of the gardens hill.
For history lovers this is fascinating and worth your while.
It puts the French Riviera in perspective.
I would recommend for children and elderly and I would recommend visiting for a couple hours instead of staying the night.
We had a taxi take us to the village from the train station as walking would have been very difficult.
I recommend this in the morning or perhaps for sunset.
Bring water and a hat!
The gardens are wonderful and views are spectacular. There is a gorgeous area within the garden with a few seats and cascade behind which is a lovely place for a photo. There are interesting plants around. There are lots of stairs, so need to be mobile to be able to visit. The machine for the tickets is on the bottom of the hill, next to the visitor centre. You can spend a very long time waiting in the queue, so it is better to either walk half way up and there is another machine with almost nobody waiting there ( although easy to miss while going through the village). It is also possible to walk all the way up and there is a ticket office there. It takes up to 1h to see the gardens. Just on the bottom of the gardens and next to the hotel entrance there is a path down ( all the way to the train station) although it looks a bit demanding. The village is amazing, with most wonderful and unique art shops. There are interesting jewellery shops, clothes shops and some restaurants. The bus service around 10:00am to Eze village and gardens and back to the Eze train station around 1:00pm were both packed at the end of August with no space to sit down on the bus. The bus driver was driving very fast and it was hard to stay steady on your feet through the whole journey. There are no toilets in the garden. There are paid toilets in two places in the village.
Amazing place, great view, lots of tropic herbs and rich history of this place!
I suggest that you buy tickets on machine down in town for the garden, since if you wait to buy on entrance, like I did, you can wait from 10-20mins depending on the line before you, and if you buy down, you just pass and enter straight. Tickets are 10€ for adults.
Take a tour strainght up to the top, see the good view and then take right and make tour around to visit all sides.
Read tables with explanations about everything there is to know, I took pictures of some things and useful info.
Enjoy your tour like I did!
Here is a review that captures the stunning beauty of the garden while keeping it very real about the social media crowd:
**⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – Breathtaking Views, if You Can See Past the Selfie Sticks**
Let’s start with the positives: the Jardin Exotique d’Èze is undeniably spectacular. Perched ruins of a medieval fortress over 1,400 feet above the Mediterranean, it offers what might be the single best panoramic view of the French Riviera. The collection of cacti, succulents, and exotic plants is beautifully curated, and the "Earth Goddess" sculptures by Jean-Philippe Richard add a lovely, serene touch to the pathways. On a clear day, it feels like you're standing on the edge of the world.
However, your ability to actually enjoy this garden depends heavily on your tolerance for "influencer culture."
Today, the garden functions less like a botanical sanctuary and more like a high-altitude backdrop for Instagram and TikTok. Every single photogenic corner, scenic ledge, and narrow pathway was completely clogged by people doing elaborate photoshoot routines. You will spend a good portion of your visit waiting for someone to finish their fifteenth consecutive pouty pose, dodging selfie sticks, or awkwardly trying not to walk through the frame of someone's transition video. The main viewing platform felt less like a historic ruin and more like an outdoor casting call.
If you want to experience the true, peaceful magic of this place, **go the absolute minute it opens in the morning.** Otherwise, you'll be sharing the panoramic views with an army of content creators trying to convince their followers they have the place all to themselves.
**Tips for visiting:**
* Wear comfortable shoes; the climb up from the village is steep.
* Bring patience.
* Absolutely worth the ticket price for the view alone, just prepare yourself for the crowd!
Absolutely beautiful village with breathtaking views! 🌿✨
Èze Village is truly one of the most charming places on the French Riviera. The narrow stone streets, beautiful little shops, and stunning views of the Mediterranean make it feel like stepping into a fairytale.
Definitely take your time to walk around and explore every little corner. The views from the top are absolutely worth the climb! It can get quite crowded, but it’s still a place I would highly recommend visiting.
A must-see if you’re exploring the French Riviera! 🇫🇷💙
Jean Cocteau Museum - Severin Wunderman Collection
| Address | 2 Quai de Monleon, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | 04 89 81 52 50 |
I loved the layout of this museum. It’s accessible by foot and was an aesthetic collection of Jean Cocteau’s works.
Amazing art in a wonderful city. Entry is free the first Sunday of every month.
The website says there is an exhibition.
I found a closed place.
If the exhibition was moved,
They could leave a message .
Closed. This museum is closed indefinitely due to storm damage
Very interesting exhibition of Dufy upstairs and Cocteau downstairs. Definitely worth going to see.
Jardin d'agrumes du Palais Carnolès
| Address | 3 Av. de la Madone, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 28 35 94 |
Guided tour was excellent, very informative fusion of history, cultural traditions and their links to the local development of agriculture.
Its not too big, but its a cool place to discover. In and out you can do the entire visit in 30 minutes, you will discover a large variety of different citrus trees. Recommended for sure and it does not have a fee 🙂
Wonderful collection of Citrus trees. The scent of the blossom is marvellous ( don't pick the fruit, it's not allowed)
Nice place for contemplation
Pretty garden of citrus, olives and statues
Poor maintenance, the trees and plant are sick and weedy. It was useless to come.
Koaland
| Address | 5 Av. de la Madone, 06500 Menton |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Thursday: Closed Friday: Closed Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | 04 93 98 20 37 |
Not bad at all. Yes it is a bit old and low key but it has everything you need. Perfect from 2 to 8years old. Loads of different attractions for kids. Canoeing, trampolines, small rollercoaster, bikes to drive, merry go round, and so on.
Small annoying thing, you need a variety of credits (tokens, 50cents coins, cash and token card) but once you get the grip of it. It’s pretty great.
The kids have loads of fun, it’s affordable, there is food and alcohol for adults. An easy evening out with little ones.
Bring anti mosquito spray and socks for the playground area (not mandated but suggested). They have toilet facilities with baby changing and dogs are welcome.
Everything is covered by the Koaland tokens but the duck lucky dip and the small cars for the little kids.
Just good place for kids to spend evening energy. Food is also good for this kind of place. Burgers were top!
Lovely entertainment space for kids. Some spaces need more maintenance and care, but very fun place.
Good place for baby really funny. A lot of games for baby and also a little train . You can play also basketball and soccer . Good place
We went on a Friday at 5pm. Spent €30 on 35 Jettons (Tickets) that kept my kids 4 & 7 going about two hours. It’s not too big but they don’t have many staff, each member of staff is manning 2-3 rides. My kids loved it but I think they will grown out of it by the time they are 10. I liked the fact that the bar is next to the soft play. Could have a drink and watch my kids playing at the same time.
Practical Tips for Visiting Menton
To make the most of your time in Menton, it helps to know a few local insights that will save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration. These practical recommendations are based on how the town actually operates throughout the year, from seasonal changes to the quirks of its layout. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your daily itinerary, and you will navigate Menton with the ease of a seasoned visitor rather than a first-time tourist.
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Time your visit for February if you love citrus. The Fête du Citron, held every February, transforms the town with massive citrus sculptures and parades. Book accommodation months in advance, as this is Menton’s busiest and most expensive period.
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Wear comfortable, grippy shoes. The old town is built on steep slopes with many uneven cobblestones and staircases. Stylish Riviera sandals may look good in photos, but you will be far happier in supportive footwear.
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Use the train for day trips. Menton’s train station is centrally located and connects you quickly to Monaco, Nice, and even into Italy. Parking in Menton is limited and expensive, so skip the rental car if you plan to stay within the coastal towns.
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Visit gardens in the morning. Many of Menton’s most beautiful gardens, including the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden and Serre de la Madone, have limited afternoon shade. Morning visits offer cooler temperatures and better light for photography.
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Carry cash for small purchases. While most restaurants and shops accept cards, some smaller bakeries, market stalls, and beach vendors prefer cash. Having €20–30 in small bills will make transactions smoother.
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Learn a few words of French and Italian. Menton has a strong Italian influence, and locals appreciate any effort to greet them in either language. A simple “bonjour” or “buongiorno” before asking a question goes a long way.
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Plan for a midweek visit in summer. Weekends bring an influx of visitors from Monaco and Nice, especially in July and August. If your schedule allows, visit the beaches and main attractions on a Tuesday or Wednesday for a calmer experience.
Menton rewards travelers who arrive with curiosity and leave with a deeper appreciation for the quieter side of the French Riviera. Whether you spend your days climbing through medieval lanes, tasting lemon-infused pastries, or simply watching the light change over the harbor, the town has a way of lingering in your memory long after you leave. Its unique blend of French sophistication and Italian soul creates an atmosphere that feels both elegant and deeply human.
As you plan your journey along the Côte d’Azur, consider giving Menton more than just a fleeting afternoon. Stay long enough to watch the sun rise over the old town, to hear the church bells echo through the narrow streets, and to understand why so many artists and writers chose this spot as their final refuge. In a region known for glamour and excess, Menton remains a place of genuine beauty, quiet charm, and golden light.
