Cote Dazur, France
Focus on Menton's core charm. Explore the Old Town, Basilica, and Cemetery of the Old Château for panoramic views. Stroll the Promenade du Soleil and visit the Jean Cocteau Museum (Bastion Museum). Enjoy seafront dining.
Immerse yourself in Menton and its surroundings. Visit Menton's famous gardens (Val Rahmeh, Jardin Serre de la Madone). Take a short train ride to Monaco to explore the Prince's Palace, Casino Square, and Oceanographic Museum. Discover the Menton Covered Market and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.
A full week allows thorough exploration. Dedicate days to Menton's Old Town, gardens, and promenade. Enjoy full-day trips to Monaco, perched villages (like Sainte-Agnès), Nice, and Ventimiglia (Italy) for its market.
Tailor your Menton itinerary to your specific passions.
Dive deep into Menton's past. Explore the Old Town, Basilique Saint-Michel Archange, and the Cemetery of the Old Château. Visit both Jean Cocteau Museums and the Palais de Carnolès. Take day trips to Èze Village (medieval charm), La Turbie (Roman Trophy of Augustus), and Monaco (Prince's Palace).
If visiting in February/March, the Menton Lemon Festival is a must for lemon-themed foods. Explore the Marché des Halles daily for local produce and specialties. Seek out Menton's unique dishes like Fougasse mentonnaise and Barba juan. Consider a cooking class or an olive mill visit for tastings. Take a day trip to Nice to try Socca and Salade niçoise.
Lace up for hikes to Sainte-Agnès or Castellar for rewarding views. Enjoy walks along the Cap-Martin coastal path. Engage in water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or jet skiing from Menton's ports in warmer months.
Menton caters to families. Spend time at Plage des Sablettes, Menton's main beach, with its gentle slopes. Explore the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden and the Palais de Carnolès gardens. The smaller Jean Cocteau Museum (Bastion) with its unique decoration can appeal to children. Consider day trips to Monaco for its captivating Oceanographic Museum and Aquarium.
Dedicated time to both the modern Jean Cocteau Museum and the Bastion Museum, appreciating Cocteau's unique artistic vision. Explore Palais de Carnolès for its collection and elegance. Take a self-guided architectural tour to admire Belle Époque villas.
Day trips to Saint-Paul-de-Vence for its art galleries and the Fondation Maeght. In Nice, explore the Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall. Antibes offers the Picasso Museum.
Whether you seek history, culinary delights, outdoor adventures, family fun, or art, Menton and its surroundings have a tailored experience awaiting you.
Menton caters to various budgets, from frugal to luxurious.
For budget-conscious travelers, consider hostels (if available in Menton, or commute from nearby Nice) or budget guesthouses/Airbnbs with shared facilities. Utilize public transport (Zou! Bus and TER train) extensively, and walk as much as possible within Menton to save on costs.
For a comfortable and balanced trip, stay in 2-3 star hotels or comfortable Airbnbs with private bathrooms and basic amenities. Dine at casual restaurants for lunch and mid-range establishments for dinner, mixing in some self-catering or market meals. Public transport is sufficient for most journeys, with occasional taxis for convenience.
Indulge in a premium Menton experience. Stay in 4-5 star hotels with sea views, private beaches, or spa facilities, or consider luxury apartment rentals/villas in the hills. Enjoy fine dining restaurants in Menton and beyond (e.g., Mirazur). Hire private transfers for airport journeys and day trips, and rent a luxury car for independent exploration.
Maximize your budget with smart choices. Travel during the shoulder or low season for lower prices and fewer crowds. Book accommodation in advance for better rates. Utilize multi-day public transport passes for unlimited travel. Enjoy affordable set lunch menus ("formule midi") at restaurants. Menton's natural beauty and historical areas offer much to see without cost.
Menton's charm changes with the seasons, presenting unique experiences year-round.
Enjoy the warm weather, beaches, and nightlife. Attend the Menton Classical Music Festival. Evenings are warm and lively.
Experience mild climates and fewer crowds. The Menton Lemon Festival (Feb/Mar) is a spectacular highlight. Menton also has charming Christmas decorations and markets in December.
Enjoy the town's calmer, more authentic feel. Focus on museums and gardens without the summer rush. Benefit from lower prices for accommodation and travel.
Whether you prefer the buzz of summer festivals or the quiet charm of winter, Menton offers distinct experiences. Book well in advance for peak festival times.
