A colorful coastal town, Menton seems to beckon us to enter its lively alleyways. Perched between sea and mountains on the Côte d'Azur, the town reveals a unique Mediterranean charm. It's a sun-filled holiday in the heart of a city renowned for its mild climate, lush gardens and vibrant architecture. Discover the 17 must-do things to do in Menton during your stay on the Côte d'Azur.
1. Stroll through Menton's historic center
If Menton is one of the 20 must-sees on the Côte d'Azur, it's partly because of the colorful beauty of its town center. It's great to lose yourself in the labyrinth of typical little streets, whose colors bring out a feeling of happiness with every step. Menton's town center leads you through its medieval streets and leafy facades. From the Rue du Vieux Château to the pretty Rue Capodanna, Rue Aquassoma and Rue Mattoni, let yourself be transported back to a legendary era. It's time to enjoy a drink in the Place aux Herbes, the perfect embodiment of the warmth of life in the South of France. Extend your stroll to the Halles market, admiring the historic wonders of the old town center along the way.
2. The Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange, an architectural marvel
Baroque art in all its splendor is evident in the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel, proudly displaying the Grimaldis coat of arms. Built as early as the XVIIᵉ century, it boasts a rich history marked by consecration in 1675, and proclamation as a basilica in 1999, by Pope John Paul II. Over the years, the building has undergone a number of changes, such as the imposing bell tower in 1701, which has become the emblem of Menton.
The Baroque facade, completed in 1819, is distinguished by its harmonious structure. Push open the doors and discover a neo-Byzantine interior, highlighted by an altarpiece by André Manchello depicting Saint-Michel. A pure marvel, one of the most beautiful religious buildings on the Côte d'Azur!
3. Belle Époque palaces in Menton
In the early XXᵉ century, well-to-do people liked to settle in Menton, for the many attractions it had to offer. Sun, beach, art of living: how could anyone resist? This exceptional Belle-Époque hotel heritage has retained all its letters of nobility, offering an incredible discovery trail. Signposts lead you through 17 palaces, including Alexandra Palace, Villa Génésis, Impérial and Majestic, to name but a few. From strict neo-classicism to eclectic style, there's something for everyone! The friezes adorning certain palaces, as well as the superb adjoining gardens, add a poetic touch to these exceptional buildings.
4. The Val Rahmeh botanical garden, a tropical plant paradise
If there's one must-see park in Menton, it's the Val Rahmeh botanical garden, an exotic jewel in the heart of the city! Let the colors and scents charm your senses as you stroll along the colorful paths of this exceptional garden. Listed as a Historic Monument, this superb exotic garden offers an enchanting experience in the heart of the Belle-Époque. Discovered by Sir Percy Radcliffe in 1922, the space was later enriched by the passion of May Campbell, before becoming a botanical garden in 1967.
With more than 1,500 species, this garden juxtaposes a variety of biogeographical territories: tropical fruit trees share the grounds with a Mediterranean olive grove, as well as a water garden, evoking a diadem rich in color. Magical, soothing, the place is a veritable creator of sensations and emotions!
5. Parc du Pian, a green break in Menton
The Parc du Pian, a listed historic monument, is home to an exceptional olive grove with 540 olive trees. One of Menton's major economic legacies, the olive tree remains an integral part of the local identity and traditions. You just can't get enough of them!
The park's ecological management includes eco-pasturing, with flocks of sheep ensuring environmentally-friendly maintenance. This is sure to delight children on a family visit. What's more, you'll find a play area for family picnics, a mini-golf course and games for your little ones. Adjacent to the Val Rahmeh botanical garden, the Parc du Pian can be admired on the same day.
6. The Vieux Château cemetery, an unusual and sublime visit to Menton
Visiting a cemetery? What a strange idea! Yes, but not just any cemetery: one of the most beautiful in France! While the view from up there is breathtaking, the visit itself, with its historical overtones, leaves no one indifferent. Menton's Vieux Château cemetery tells the story of the evolution of burial practices. Initially, the church of Saint-Michel was used as a burial ground, but wars and epidemics gradually imposed the need for a larger space.
In 1807, the municipality acquired the Vieux Château from the Prince of Monaco for use as a cemetery. After a number of transformations and financial challenges, the site took on its current appearance in 1875. Today, the cemetery is a magnificent site overlooking the city, the old port and Garavan Bay, which is yours to discover on a tour that's as discreet as it is respectful.
7. Menton's Halles market, an institution
The Halles de Menton market is not only a great place to shop, it's also nestled in some absolutely superb period halls. Colorful, as is so often the case in this beautiful southern town, they invite both contemplation and local discovery. Dressed all in yellow, the Halles market nestles between the old town and the port, on Quai de Monléon. Open every morning, it welcomes some forty local traders and producers. The famous lemon, of course, takes pride of place here, along with the main food trades. In thewarm atmosphere typical of the South of France, you'll discover local products with an infectious smile.
8. Le jardin serre de la Madone, a bucolic moment in Menton
Immerse yourself once again in botanical magic, at the Jardin Serre de la Madone, created by Lawrence Johnston. This botanical paradise perched on a ridge near the Madonna is Johnston's crowning achievement. With his passion for rare plants, he created a six-hectare estate planted with olive, fig and peach trees, with arbors and ancient statues. Absolutely magical!
From the tropical Himalayan oak to the large Magnolia delavayi, rare plant species are on display for you to marvel at. The ochre bastide, now a listed historic monument, is a reminder of the sumptuous receptions held by the master of the house, sometimes welcoming crowned heads. Combining history with a passion for botany, this is a place that will win you over!
9. Enjoy the beaches of Menton
It would be a shame to spend a vacation in Menton without taking advantage of its beaches. Each one more beautiful than the next, many of them welcome you for special family moments:
- plage des Sablettes and its restaurant , Les Sablettes Beach,
- plage Hawaï,
- plage du Marché,
- rondelli beach,
- casino beach,
- la plage Chiens,
- fossan beach,
- borrigo beach.
Some beaches are dog-friendly, which is great news for those traveling with theirpets!
10. In the footsteps of Jean Cocteau
The famous Jean Cocteau, an unconditional lover of Menton, still finds an echo in his beloved town. The Musée Jean Cocteau, with its dazzling contemporary design, offers over 2,000 exhibits and temporary exhibitions. Nearby, the Fort du Bastion, a former 17thᵉ century military building facing the sea, also houses a museum dedicated to Cocteau. Better still, it was the "prince of poets" himself who designed the layout. On the menu: 150 works, including 120 paintings, sketches, drawings and personal objects. An incredible place to discover or rediscover, as each year the works change according to his wishes. Even if you don't know Cocteau's work inside out, you'll enjoy discovering these exceptional museums.
11. Domaine des Colombières, between garden and architecture
Another garden? Yes, it is! Although open to tourism, the town of Menton has retained its charm, particularly its rich natural environment. The Domaine des Colombières, designed by Ferdinand Bac, is also a listed historic monument.
Overlooking the Bay of Garavan, this Belle Époque masterpiece invites you on a journey through the ancient Mediterranean. Filled with symbolism and Greek mythology, this unusual garden leads you through centuries-old olive, pine and cypress trees. The landscape setting celebrates the region with exceptional poetry! Adjacent to the Jardin des Colombières, an impressive building celebrating the Belle Époque plunges you into a past punctuated with beauty.
12. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, in the Palais de Carnolès
The building housing Menton's Musée des Beaux-Arts is a work of art in itself! And with good reason, since it's the Palais de Carnolès. Formerly the summer residence of the Princes of Monaco, this superb edifice is surrounded by a botanical garden renowned for its exceptional citrus collection. In this beautiful museum, discover a pictorial collection ranging from the XIIIᵉ century to the present day, with temporary exhibitions by contemporary artists. Not much of an art lover? If only to admire the Palace's sumptuous architecture and enchanting gardens, the visit is well worth it!
13. Fontana Rosa, the novelists' garden
It's almost as if the town of Menton wants to organize a competition for the most beautiful garden! It would be hard to choose, however, as they are all so admirable. The most astonishing thing about Jardin Fontana Rosa is its colorful architectural constructions. The rare extravagance that reigns behind the gate adorned with portraits of Balzac, Dickens and Cervantes is unique! Created by Vicente Blasco Ibáñez in 1921, this unusual garden stretches over an imposing property housing a villa and original structures. The semi-circular rotunda, decorated with tiles depicting Don Quixote, is a perfect example. One thing leading to another, you'll discover bronze busts of literary giants, as well as an agora, permeated by the scent of roses and orange blossom. Why not let yourself be carried away by this timeless moment?
14. Boulevard de Garavan, Menton's symbolic road
In Menton, you're just a stone's throw from Italy, and that's exactly what Boulevard de Garavan is all about. Nicknamed the "Babylonian Dream", this symbolic artery stretches for three kilometers between pepper and carob trees, offering a sumptuous spectacle of majestic villas and lush gardens. A beautiful stroll in prospect!
Following this path, which links the French-Italian border to the Old Town, you plunge into a breathtaking view of the Bay of Menton. You'll be charmed at every step, as you pass by such gems as the Parc du Pian and the Val Rahmeh garden.
Good to know: you'll find Casa Fuego, one of the city's finest restaurants, on this boulevard.
15. Visit the Musée de Préhistoire Régionale de Menton
Dive into the distant past at the Musée de Préhistoire Régionale de Menton! Open every day except Tuesdays and public holidays, you can enjoy an enriching experience at an affordable price. Its link with Stanislas Bonfils, the Menton naturalist who founded the first municipal museum in 1878, adds an interesting historical dimension to this original museum. Discover at your own pace the vestiges of daily life in the past, the culture and economic activities of the Alpes-Maritimes in Ventimiglia. From the Iron Age to late Antiquity, this journey through time will make you an ace at local history!
16. The Mediterranean awaits you
Enjoying the Mediterranean also means getting away from the beaches for a while. There's nothing like booking a boat trip to discover the Côte d'Azur from the sea. Motorboat, catamaran, sailboat: there's something for every taste and budget! Your outing can also be an opportunity to admire the seabed, on a snorkelling or scuba-diving trip.
The ideal spot has an unusual name: "La Piscine". With clear, sheltered waters, the site offers an exceptional panorama of the colors of Menton. From here, you explore a coralligenous plateau and descend to 38 meters, crossing a valley of posidonia. A memorable dive awaits you!
17. Don't miss the Menton Lemon Festival!
A veritable institution in Menton, the Lemon Festival is held every year in February-March. Beware, you're in for a treat! For over 15 days, the Golden Fruit Corsos and Night Corsos light up the streets with lively citrus floats and festive bands. Visit the Biovès gardens, which host a creative exhibition of citrus motifs that change every year.
At nightfall, they transform into Jardins de Lumières, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable experience, to the rhythm of this event listed as an intangible cultural heritage in France since 2019.
Where to stay in Menton?
From charming little hotels to Belle Époque palaces, put your bags down in one of Menton's beautiful hotels. Whether close to the beach or in the quiet, far from the hustle and bustle, you'll find the right establishment for your stay.
- The most complete
Enjoy a comfortable room, with access to the spa and solarium- that's what the Hôtel Riva Art & Spa in Menton has to offer! Facing the sea, this beautiful establishment offers all the comforts you need to relax on vacation: go here to book your stay!
- The best value for money
The Hôtel-Club Royal Westminster is reminiscent of the architecture of Belle Époque palaces, offering a full range of services at an affordable price. Comfort blends with a modern ambience, all in a prime location. Last but not least, you'll enjoy a beautiful view from your room and a wide range of activities. The best! Click here to check rates and availability.
- The best location
Just a stone's throw from the sea and the Italian border, Hôtel Pavillon Impérial offers a warm welcome at a low price, and you can book here in just a few clicks. A private parking lot and a pleasant bar are among the highlights of this establishment, which is well worth a visit.
Family activities in Menton
The My Explore Bag adventure game has been designed for families wishing to discover Menton and the surrounding area in a fun way. Don't hesitate to ask for advice from the Menton tourist office, so that you and your family can embark on a wild adventure! Visiting the town's various gardens is another great idea for a family outing. Some of them even feature playgrounds and fun activities, inviting children to take a pleasant break.
On the Promenade de la Mer, we invite you to discover Bricks 4 Kidz, a LEGO paradise. Children and parents are sure to enjoy this unusual visit! In the "let the kids take a breather" category, another place stands out: Koalanda playground full of surprises.
Like most towns, Menton also has its Petit Train Touristique in summer. It's usually a great activity for kids, offering an effortless, fun way to see the town.
What to do in Menton when it rains?
In Menton, even in the rain, art and culture offer fascinating discoveries. The Musée Jean Cocteau is a prime example! Other museums to visit when it's raining include the Musée de Préhistoire Régionale and the Musée du Bastion. The Hôtel de Ville can also be part of the tour, with its contemporary Cocteau frescoes in the Salle des Mariages.
Still raining? Then head for the Basilique Saint-Michel, a Baroque jewel of unmissable architecture. For a gastronomic getaway sheltered from the rain, Menton's Marché des Halles invites you on a culinary journey in a Mediterranean atmosphere. Your delicious escapade continues at the Herbin jam factory, a gourmet's paradise.
Which villages to visit around Menton?
Take advantage of your vacation in Menton to discover the 15 most beautiful villages in the PACA region, offering a complete change of scenery! The hinterland is full of perched villages with Côte d'Azur charm.
Start with Sainte-Agnès, Europe's highest coastal village and one of France's most beautiful villages. Its cobbled streets and breathtaking views over the Mediterranean promise a delightful experience. Must-sees include the Maginot Line fort, the medieval garden and the 16th-century church.
Just 7 km from Menton, the village of Castillon also stands out. Rebuilt after an earthquake, it combines Provencal charm with an artistic ambience. What about a visit to Gorbio, a pretty village between Roquebrune-Cap-Martin and Menton? The menu promises to be delicious: authenticity, château, picturesque streets and historic monuments! Finally, perched 500 meters above sea level, La Turbie offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the mountains. Famous for its Trophée d'Auguste and its Roman ruins, the town guides you through its picturesque streets and historic buildings, inviting you on a captivating tour.
The Côte d'Azur amazes us with its marvellous coastline and surrounding villages. Here, life is punctuated by sunshine and the Mediterranean atmosphere we all love. Always full of charm, Menton stands out from many other tourist towns: it's magic! Why not take advantage of your stay to visit the Italian villages close to the border? Ventimiglia, Bordighera, Dolceacqua and Sanremo stand out in particular. On the French side, Monaco is also a must!
