Cote Dazur, France
France has four major mobile providers: Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. All provide good coverage in Menton. Purchase local SIM cards at phone stores, large supermarkets, or Relay shops. Consider an eSIM for convenience.
French is the official language. Many in tourist businesses speak English, especially younger generations. Knowing basic French phrases is highly appreciated. Effort to speak French often leads to warmer interactions.
La Poste, the French national postal service, has offices in Menton for sending postcards and parcels. Look for the distinctive yellow and blue sign. Stamps ("timbres") are available at tabacs (tobacco shops), common throughout the town.
A simple greeting goes a long way. Practice these before your trip.
Making an effort to speak French, even a few phrases, is always appreciated by locals and can enhance your travel experience.
Familiarize yourself with typical operating hours to plan your days efficiently.
Shops generally open 9 AM/10 AM to 7 PM/7:30 PM (Mon-Sat), some close for lunch. Supermarkets are typically 8:30 AM to 8 PM (Mon-Sat), with shorter Sunday hours.
Pharmacies operate 9 AM to 12:30 PM and 2 PM to 7 PM (Mon-Sat). Banks are usually 9 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 5 PM (Mon-Fri), some Saturday mornings.
Lunch service typically 12 PM to 2:30 PM; Dinner 7 PM to 10:30 PM. Museums usually open 10 AM to 5 PM/6 PM, often closed one day a week (Mon/Tues) and on public holidays.
France observes numerous public holidays throughout the year. During these times, banks, post offices, and many shops and businesses may be closed or operate on reduced hours. Plan your activities accordingly, especially if traveling during these dates.
Some smaller, family-run businesses or seasonal attractions might close during the low season, typically late autumn and winter, outside of the Lemon Festival period. Restaurants may take their annual leave outside of the peak summer months. It is prudent to confirm opening hours for specific establishments in advance.
Always check specific opening times for attractions and restaurants you plan to visit, specifically around public holidays or during the low season.
Navigating local customs enriches your travel experience in Menton.
Always greet shopkeepers, restaurant staff, and others with "Bonjour" (during the day) or "Bonsoir" (in the evening) upon entering. Say "Au revoir" when leaving. Address women as "Madame" and men as "Monsieur." A handshake is common for formal greetings.
Casual clothing is acceptable for most daily activities. When visiting churches or religious sites, shoulders and knees should be covered as a sign of respect. For upscale restaurants, smart casual or semi-formal attire (no shorts, t-shirts, or flip-flops) is suitable. Cover up swimwear when leaving the beach.
Service is included ("service compris") in the bill. A small extra tip (€1-€5 or rounding up) for good service is a gesture of appreciation. Tear bread, do not cut it, and place it on the table next to your plate. Keep your hands above the table when dining. Drinking wine with meals is common; ordering only water is also perfectly fine.
It is generally fine to photograph public spaces and landmarks. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children. Some museums or private properties may prohibit photography. Avoid discussing money, politics, or religion, especially with strangers, as these are sensitive topics. Be mindful of noise levels in public.
When booking accommodation or tours, directly confirm accessibility with the provider, detailing your specific needs.
Travel choices have a positive effect on the local community and environment.
The Mercantour National Park, though not in Menton, sits nearby. When visiting, follow park rules and stay on marked trails to support conservation. The protected Posidonia Oceanica Sea Grass Beds off Menton provide habitat; avoid anchoring in these sensitive areas. Use designated mooring buoys where available.
Menton has clear recycling bins for plastic, paper, and glass. Follow local sorting rules. Minimize single-use plastics. Carry a Reusable water bottle and Shopping bag. The French Riviera can experience water stress; take shorter showers and turn off taps when brushing teeth.
Consider purchasing carbon offsets for your flights. Many airlines and third-party organizations offer programs to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, balancing your air travel's environmental footprint. Research reputable offset providers.
Support local efforts to preserve Menton's unique heritage. Respect historical sites and local traditions, including the Menton Lemon Festival. Seek out locally made products ("Fait en France" or "Produit de Menton") or certified fair trade items. This supports fair wages and good working conditions.
Dine at local restaurants, hire local guides, and avoid international chains.
Conservation SupportAlways ask permission before photographing individuals, and be discreet in religious places.
If donating, choose reputable local charities supporting environment, culture, or social initiatives.
Learn basic French phrases, be polite and patient, and avoid public displays of excessive intoxication or boisterous behavior.
