Things to Do in Menton: Exploring the French Riviera

Renowned for its vibrancy, Menton is full of things to do and attracts visitors from around the world. Strategically located on the French Riviera, it serves as the perfect destination for travelers who have a penchant for the outdoors and food!

In this guide, you’ll find various ways to meticulously plan your visit to Menton. During my visit to Menton, I noticed that it had a slower pace than Nice, making it a much more intimate location to visit. Owing to its proximity to Italy, you almost get the feeling of being there, but with a French flair. Although it might seem unfair to label it that way, the Italian influence is palpable. The weather, which is beautiful most of the year, adds to the charm of Menton. For instance, during our visit in February, we were able to bask in the sunny weather.

Food Tours
Hiking and Other Outdoor Activities
Gardens
Markets
Beaches in Menton
For the History Buff
For The Photographer
Map of Menton with Markers for Everything Listed

Food Tours

Patricia, Owner of Food Tour Riviera holding a plate of desserts.

I am of the mind that food connects you to the culture and the people of a location. Indeed, you can find out so much about a place through its food. Specifically, Menton has an array of specialty foods that you have to be on the lookout for. Consequently, one effective way to do so is to join a food tour!

BOOK HERE: Food Tour Riviera

Strolling through the market in Menton, we savored local delicacies guided by her. Patricia introduced us to Olive tapenade, a specialty crafted from olives grown in the hills of Menton. Our taste adventure continued as we sampled Pissaladiere, a French Riviera specialty akin to Socca. Resembling a pizza, Pissaladiere boasts toppings of caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies. In contrast, Socca, a common find in Nice and the French Riviera region, is a protein-rich snack crafted from chickpea flour, olive oil, and water. The exploration of these unique flavors made our visit to the market a memorable experience.

Firstly, this is a tour that I HIGHLY recommend. Spearheaded by Patricia, Food Tour Riviera operates tours throughout the French Riviera. With her expert guidance, she takes you to some of the most charming and off-the-beaten-path places. Interestingly, these are spots you would probably never stumble upon if you were to explore on your own. The tour isn’t just about food tasting. In addition to the culinary delights, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn a bit of history while on this tour.

Hiking and Other Outdoor Activities

Sometimes your best friend in researching things to do in Menton is the local tourist organization. Menton tourist organization has a great website full of activities that you can do. Check it out here, I get absolutely zero commission off of this, this is just great to have. I have listed hikes that will link back to Komoot, again zero commission off of this as well.

Pointe du Cap Martin loop from Menton: This is an intermediate-level trail that takes approximately 4 hours and 29 minutes to complete. The trail is 17.0 km long and offers beautiful views.
Panorama exceptionnel loop from Menton to Chateau Fort de Sainte Agnès: This intermediate-level trail takes around 4 hours and 23 minutes to complete and is 12.4 km long.
Le Berceau loop from Menton – Garavan: This is an expert-level trail that takes approximately 6 hours and 59 minutes to complete. The trail is 17.4 km long.
Front de Mer loop from Menton: This intermediate-level trail takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to complete and is 9.74 km long.
Altstadt von Menton loop from Menton: This intermediate-level trail takes approximately 4 hours and 57 minutes to complete. The trail is 13.1 km long.

Exploring further, another great option is a sunset hike in Villefranche-sur-Mer along the Sentier du Littoral. To get there, we took the regional train from Menton and walked along the water’s edge. Our journey began from the Plage de la Darse. Interestingly, there is a hiking trail just beyond the waterfront apartment complex. The Sentier du Littoral in Villefranche-sur-Mer presents a moderately challenging trail. Spanning approximately 5.5 km long, the trail has an elevation gain of about 145 meters. On average, it takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to complete. For more detailed information, you can visit the trail’s page on Komoot. However, please note that the duration can vary depending on your pace and the number of stops you make along the way.

Gardens

I would be a terrible person if I didn’t recommend visiting gardens as one of the top things to do in Menton. Menton is renowned for its beautiful gardens. Here are a few you might consider visiting:

Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh: This garden is home to a wide variety of plants from around the world. It offers a real escape between the sea and mountains
Les Jardins Biovès: Located in the city’s main boulevard, these gardens are a must-visit, especially during the Lemon Festival.
Serre de la Madone: This lovely tranquil garden is well worth a visit with ponds full of wildlife, interesting plants, and amazing views.
Villa Maria Serena: Known as the most temperate garden in France, it houses plants from South Africa and Brazil.
Jardin du Palais Carnolès: Home to a wide variety of citrus fruits, this garden is a treat for the senses.
Villa Fontana Rosa: Created by a Spanish republican in exile, this garden is a blend of Spanish opulence and Menton lifestyle.

Each garden offers a unique experience, from exotic plants and fragrant citrus trees to stunning views and tranquil spaces. They truly embody the charm and beauty of Menton.

Markets

Of all the things to do in Menton, visiting markets was one of my favorite things to do. Menton is home to several vibrant markets. The Marché des Halles de Menton, located on Quai Monléon, is open every day from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Here, you can find about thirty producers offering fresh and local products, including vegetables, fruits, meat, and fish. It was one of my favorites while visiting the city. The food stalls were remarkable and full of fresh citrus and vegetables. This felt like the beating heart of the city and I recommend checking it out.

Another notable market is the Carei Market, which offers tasty fruits and vegetables, delicious farmhouse cheeses, eggs, cold meats, fish, condiments, oil, olives, and spices. It’s open every day and is located at 5 Quai de Monleon.

When it comes to food, don’t miss out on trying the local culinary specialties such as lemon tarts, socca, barbajuans, and other types of pies from Menton. We loved eating Socca, it was delicious and a protein-filled snack that will keep you full. These can be found at various stalls in the markets.

Beaches in Menton

While I didn’t get to take advantage of the beaches in Menton and on the Riviera, you certainly can. Here is a list of beaches you can check out that are family-friendly and look beautiful!

Plage de Fossan, Menton: This beach is composed of large pebbles with a few sandy areas. It is equipped with an anti-jellyfish net and a first-aid station that ensures surveillance during the season. Showers and sanitary facilities are available for beachgoers. There are also several restaurants where you can have a waterfront lunch or dinner. An area is open to dogs, making it a pet-friendly beach.
Plage du Casino, Menton: This beach is composed of large pebbles with some sandy areas. It is equipped for people with reduced mobility and is monitored in the summer. An area is open to dogs. You can park along the road near the beach.
Plage Sablettes: Dressed entirely in white—from sunbeds to tables and billowing curtains—this private beach exudes elegance. As you relax on your sun lounger, take in the magnificent view of Menton’s old town, the Italian Riviera, and the azure Mediterranean waters. The restaurant at Les Sablettes Beach offers high-end services, including private soirées, beachside animations, showers, and proximity to water sports.
Beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer: The beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer are known for their clear waters and sandy shores. They are free and open to the public. Some of the beaches have lifeguards on duty during the summer. There are also several restaurants and cafes near the beaches where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.

Remember to check the local regulations and facilities before your visit.

A busker plays his saxophone next to the beach in Menton.

For the History Buff

There are so many places to visit in Menton that will inspire the Historian within. Menton is steeped in history and here are the top three places I think that you should put on your list when visiting Menton:

Jean Cocteau Museum: Jean Cocteau, the multi-talented artist, left his mark on Menton. The Jean Cocteau Museum, established in 2011, houses an extensive collection of his work. This is where you can explore graphic art, films, and photographs that reveal Cocteau’s genius.
Salle des Mariages: Imagine stepping into the Salle des Mariages (Wedding Hall) at the Hôtel de Ville. Jean Cocteau transformed this space into a vibrant canvas. Murals adorned with symbolism—whispers of ancient tales—surround you. It is pretty breathtaking. Cocteau is a mastermind.
Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange: Perched on the hill above Menton in the old town, the Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange dates back to the 17th century. The Basilica is filled with Baroque architecture and frescoes!

For The Photographer

Basilique Saint Michel Archange Staircase: This is one of the most ICONIC spots in Menton. The yellow staircase is stunning! It can be quite busy at times but I found it easy and manageable to get the perfect shot!