Perched on the Franco-Italian border and bathed in sunshine year-round, Menton is a pastel dream of citrus groves, Belle Époque villas, and sea views so perfect they feel painted. Known as la perle de la France (“the Pearl of France”), this small town offers a slower, more graceful pace than bustling Nice or glitzy Monaco—yet it’s rich in history, art, and beauty.

This complete guide covers what to see, do, eat, and where to stay in Menton, with travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

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What to See & Do in Menton

1. Old Town (Vieux Menton) – Pastel Perfection

Wander through the flower-filled lanes of Menton’s old town, where ochre, pink, yellow, orange and gold facades glow in the Mediterranean light. The architecture is a mix of Italian Ligurian charm—narrow alleyways, trompe-l’œil painted shutters, terracotta roofs—and French Riviera elegance. Climb to Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange for sweeping sea views. Its 17th-century baroque façade and black-and-white pebble mosaic square make it one of the most photographed spots in Menton.

2. Jean Cocteau Museum & Bastion Museum – Art on the Sea

The Jean Cocteau Museum houses an extensive collection of the French artist’s work—drawings, ceramics, film stills, and paintings. The building itself, designed by French architect, Rudy Ricciotti, is a striking contemporary structure of black-and-white curves inspired by waves and shadows. Just along the waterfront, the Bastion Museum, housed in a 17th-century fort, offers an intimate view of Cocteau’s colorful mosaics and marine-inspired art.

3. Jardin Serre de la Madone

A lush botanical garden with exotic plants, reflective pools, and terraced paths. Menton’s unique microclimate supports rare species from around the globe—palms from South America, jasmine from India, and citrus groves that scent the air.

4. Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival)

Every February, Menton celebrates its citrus heritage with enormous sculptures made entirely of lemons and oranges, along with parades and live music. The festival dates back to 1934 and draws visitors from around the world.

5. Marché des Halles

This covered market is a feast for the senses—local cheeses, charcuterie, olives, and Menton’s famed lemons. Arrive early to watch locals shop for the day’s meals and sample regional specialties.

6. Go to the Beach!

Can’t choose between pebbles or sand? Menton beaches offer both! The Sablettes and Rondelli beaches are known for their sandy stretches and are popular with families and younger crowds. Promenade du Soleil features a mix of beaches with pebbles, including Borrigo, Casino de Menton, and Marché de Menton, each offering different amenities and access. 

What to Eat in Menton

Menton’s cuisine is a sunny fusion of French and Italian Riviera flavors, with citrus often taking center stage.

There a few Michelin starred restaurants in town, but one that really stands out is Mirazur, between the mountains and the sea, in a restaurant offering beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. 

Address: 30 avenue Aristide-Briand, Menton, 06500, France

Other local fare you should try include:

Tarte au Citron de Menton – A lemon tart made with the town’s sweet, aromatic lemon.

Socca – A crispy chickpea pancake from nearby Nice, sold at street stalls.

Pissaladière – A caramelized onion tart topped with anchovies and olives, like this one I made at a cooking class in Nice:

Ligurian Pasta & Seafood – Fresh pasta like trofie with pesto or spaghetti alle vongole or moules.

Gelato by the Sea – Artisanal gelaterias dot the promenade; perfect for a sunset stroll.

Where to Stay in Menton

Luxury:

Hôtel Napoléon – Steps from the beach, with a pool, sea-view balconies, and contemporary design.

Charming Mid-Range:

Hôtel Riva Art & Spa – Stylish rooms, a rooftop pool, and a small spa with sea views.

Boutique:

Villa Genesis – this Belle Époque-style villa offers elegant rooms, lush gardens, a swimming pool and a tranquil atmosphere all while being centrally located near the beach and the marché des halles.

How to Get to Menton

By train is very easy – take the TER line from Nice and it is about a 40 minute ride.

By car, the scenic coastal road offers stunning views. (We actually found parking rather easily, even though it was the height of the summer vacation.)

By foot from Italy – From Ventimiglia, you can even walk across the border.

Have you been to Menton?

Drop your favorite cafés, shops, or beaches in the comments below. Or share this guide with a friend dreaming of lemons and sunshine!

What to Wear in Menton, France?

Since you are in the French Riviera, keep it light, cool and chic. Linen is always a great choice! Head to my LTK shop for advice what to wear in Menton, France.

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