Menton is a hidden gem on the French Riviera, often overlooked in favor of Nice, Cannes and Monte Carlo. This small town on the Italian border is absolutely worth a visit and it’s my personal favorite in the area.
The atmosphere in Menton is calmer and more relaxed than in many other Riviera towns, with charming pedestrian streets, a sandy beach and a small marina. It’s especially popular with couples and families, and the nightlife is fairly low key.
Vieux Menton
Vieux Menton sits above the main town and is a maze of narrow alleys lined with tall, faded yellow buildings.
It has a very special feel, almost like a hidden oasis where the air is cooler and you forget about the Mediterranean heat for a while. Many balconies are covered with colorful flowers, creating that picture-perfect Menton look.
This part of town is also home to Basilique Saint-Michel Archange, with the famous Escaliers below. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Menton.
When I was there, this was the only place that really felt crowded with tourists. I had to wait a little before I could take photos.
If you like great views, head to Point de vue du Port. It sits on a hill and offers the best view of the town. It wasn’t easy to find, but I walked from the basilica through Vieux Menton and followed a winding road uphill.
The climb is tough in the heat, so bring water. Once you get there, you can see the whole town and all the way to Italy.
Rue Saint-Michel
Follow Rue Longue out of Vieux Menton and you’ll reach a square where the popular pedestrian street Rue Saint-Michel begins. This is the heart of Menton, lined with small shops selling souvenirs and local products.
One thing you’ll notice quickly is how many lemon-themed items there are. You’ll find everything from keychains and soaps to lemon trees. Of course, there are plenty of gelato stands too, which makes sense with Italy just around the corner. Side streets branching off from Rue Saint-Michel are filled with small cafés and outdoor terraces that are perfect for a relaxed evening.
The Beaches in Menton
There are several beaches along Menton’s coastline, but the most popular by far is Plage des Sablettes, right below Vieux Menton next to the marina. It’s a sandy beach, which is a nice change from the pebbles in Nice. The beach is sheltered by two piers, so the water is calm and the waves are small. If I were visiting the Riviera with kids, I’d choose Menton over Nice for the beaches alone.
There are also beaches along Promenade du Soleil, but these are more pebbly. Not as rocky as Nice, but not sandy either.
The upside is that they are much quieter, so if you don’t mind skipping the sand, this is where you’ll find more space. There are a few hotels right above these beaches too, which makes it convenient if you want to stay close to the water.
Things to Do in Menton
Menton has a good but fairly limited list of attractions and you can see most of them in a single day.
Basilique Saint-Michel Archange and the Escaliers
This is the one spot you really shouldn’t miss. The basilica and its grand staircase are iconic and probably the most beautiful place in town.
When I visited, there were chairs and a stage set up for an event, which ruined the historic feel a little, but I can imagine it’s stunning otherwise.
Jardins Biovès
This garden runs along Avenue Boyer at the start of Promenade du Soleil. It’s quite narrow, so it doesn’t feel like a big park where you can escape the noise, but it’s still pretty and Palais de l’Europe is right next door.
You don’t need to spend much time here, but it’s worth walking through.
Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh
I didn’t make it here myself, but it was on my to-do list. The garden is a bit out of the way, above the port in Menton Garavan, so it’s a long walk from town.
Judging by the photos, though, it looks worth it. Even though I didn’t go, I’d recommend it if you’re planning to visit Menton since it’s a popular attraction.
Day Trip to Sanremo, Italy
If you feel like a change after a few days in Menton, you can take a trip to Italy. There are trains from Menton to Ventimiglia, a town that feels similar to Menton with its pastel-colored houses.
If you want to go further, Sanremo is a great option. It’s a well-known seaside town with sandy beaches, a historic center and, of course, plenty of pizza and gelato.
Lemons and Fête du Citron
Menton is famous for its lemons, known for their sweetness and the intense flavor of their peel. Around town, you’ll find shops selling everything from soaps and keychains to bottles of citronade.
My personal favorite is the edible stuff, like lemon ice cream and lemon tart from the local cafés.
The town’s lemon tradition goes back to the 1300s. Menton grows a bright, zesty variety with a peel rich in essential oils. Each year from late February to early March the Fête du Citron fills the Jardins Biovès with towering citrus sculptures that transform the gardens into a glowing wonderland of color and creativity.
Where to Stay in Menton
Menton has plenty of accommodation options. Next time I visit, I’ll try to rent an apartment above Plage des Sablettes, which is one of the best spots in town.
It’s great being close to the beach, picking up fresh baguettes and croissants for breakfast and having the freedom of your own place. The only downside is the steps, since the houses sit on a hill. If you don’t like climbing, this area might not be for you.
Another good area is between Promenade du Soleil and Rue Saint-Michel. You’ll be close to the pebble beaches, the promenade and the lively café scene. Some of the most popular hotels are here, like Hôtel Vendôme Menton and Hôtel Royal Westminster, which sits right by the beach.
If you’d rather stay somewhere quieter, Best Western Hôtel Méditerranée Menton is a good option further from the main road. I haven’t stayed at these hotels myself, but they looked like the best located ones when I visited. Check reviews before booking to make sure you’re happy.
Getting to Menton from Nice
Nice is the closest airport to Menton, so that’s where you’ll be flying into. Getting from the airport to Menton is easy, just take the train. The only thing to know is that Menton’s train station is a bit outside the town center, so if you’re carrying heavy luggage and staying near Vieux Menton or Plage des Sablettes, it’s worth taking a taxi.
