Dreaming of a slower-paced French Riviera escape—minus the Monaco crowds and Nice price tags? Menton might be your perfect match.
I spent 5 days here for my birthday and wanted somewhere warmer than Vicenza. It turned into one of my favorite trips.
This charming coastal town is just 4 hours by car, and I couldn’t resist the citrus groves, pastel facades, and laid-back vibe.
In this itinerary, I’ll walk you through exactly what we did and give you everything you need to plan your own trip, especially if you’re a solo traveler, nature lover, or food enthusiast.
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Table of Contents
Where to Stay in Menton
I’ve stayed in Menton twice—once in 2024 and again in 2025—and both times we chose apartments from Booking.com.
1. Le Victoria Apartment (2024 Stay)
- Location: 10-minute walk to the beach and central market
- Type: Studio
- Vibe: Simple but well-located
- Bonus: Quick access to shops, restaurants, and bakeries
2. Appartamento Elegante in Villa Storica sul Mare (2025 Stay)
- Location: Garavan, 20-minute walk to Old Town
- Type: Quiet apartment villa
- Vibe: Harbor and town views, pet-friendly
- Tip: Close to Garavan Train Station (but parking is tricky)
More Recommended Hotels:
Mid-Range: Best Western Plus Hôtel Prince de Galles – Historic charm, sea-view balconies, spacious rooms
Luxury: Hôtel Napoléon – Steps from the sea, palm-lined pool, balconies with Mediterranean views
Book your Menton Stay Here:
Day 1: Arrival + Sunset Aperitivo
We drove from Vicenza through Western Italy—stunning the whole way. We arrived in the evening, checked into our studio apartment, Appartamento Elegante in Villa Storica sul Mare and took a walk around town.
For aperitivo, we grabbed drinks near the Basilica staircase. The bar we went to (Le New Pub) has since closed, but the area is still full of cafes and bars. This part of Menton is especially beautiful at sunset.
Dinner: Vesuvio – Classic Italian pizza and wine. We paid 56 EUR for two.
📝 Tip: Not all restaurants open early in the evening. Check your timing around Italy’s “Riposo” midday break.Stars and Stripes Europe – Riposo in Italy: The Art of a Midday Rest
Day 2: Food Tour with Food Tour Riviera
I was beyond excited for this tour because Menton is a paradise for food lovers, offering a variety of unique regional specialties you won’t want to miss. If you’re visiting, this food tour is a must!
👉 BOOK HERE: Food Tour Riviera
Patricia is a gem and will take care of you!
Led by the amazing Patricia, Food Tour Riviera offers expert-guided culinary experiences across the French Riviera. What makes this tour special is that it takes you beyond the usual tourist spots, introducing you to
that you probably wouldn’t discover on your own. Plus, it’s not just about food—Patricia shares fascinating stories and history along the way, making this an enriching experience for any traveler.
What to Expect on the Menton Food Tour
One of the highlights of our tour was strolling through Menton’s vibrant market, where we got to taste some of the region’s finest delicacies:
- Olive tapenade – A rich, flavorful spread made from olives grown in the hills of Menton.
- Pissaladière – A beloved French Riviera specialty, similar to pizza but topped with caramelized onions, black olives, and anchovies.
- Socca – A protein-packed, gluten-free snack made from chickpea flour, olive oil, and water, commonly found in Nice and across the Riviera.
Every bite told a story, and the flavors of Menton’s local cuisine made this tour an unforgettable experience. If you’re looking for an authentic way to explore Menton’s food scene, I highly recommend booking this tour!
Evening Stroll High Above Menton
My husband and I love staying active when we travel, so we set out to hike to the highest points in Menton for breathtaking views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
I discovered a fantastic hiking route through Menton’s Official Tourism Website, which is a great resource for finding updated trail recommendations. You can check their listings regularly or reach out to the local tourism office for the latest hiking options.
The scenic hike we chose led us to some of the most spectacular viewpoints in Menton, offering panoramic vistas of the coastline and charming old town. If you enjoy outdoor adventures, I highly recommend adding a Menton hiking experience to your itinerary!
Other Menton Hikes to Consider
- 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.
Day 3: Gardens, Food and a Birthday Dinner
We decided to check out the beautiful gardens that Menton is known for after we stopped by Atelier Boulanger, this was close to our apartment. We could literally walk across the street to it. You can check out the apartments here: Le Victoria.
Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh
Nestled in the hills above Menton, the Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh is a hidden gem that transports visitors into a lush, tropical paradise. Whether you’re a plant enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this botanical garden in Menton is a must-visit.
How to Get to Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh
Reaching this botanical haven is easy:
- On foot: Enjoy a leisurely 20-minute walk from Menton’s bustling city center.
- By bus: Take Bus 7 and disembark near the entrance.
Located on Avenue Saint-Jacques, the garden’s entrance is framed by vibrant bougainvillea and lush palm trees, welcoming you into a world of natural beauty.
What to Expect at Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden
Step inside and explore over 1,700 plant species from around the world, including:
- Rare orchids
- Towering banana trees
- Serene ponds with floating Nymphaea water lilies
- Citrus groves and Mediterranean flora
As we wandered the shaded paths, we took in the tranquil sounds of nature, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the stunning views of the azure Mediterranean sky. It was actually quite nice. I highly recommend it. I never thought I would enjoy something so much, but I guess one year older and I suddenly became a botanical garden lover.
Plan Your Visit
- Admission: €7 for adults
- Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat in Menton
Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh is open year-round with seasonal hours:
- April 1 to October 31: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- November 1 to March 31: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Whether you’re exploring Menton’s gardens, looking for unique things to do, or simply craving a moment of serenity, Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh is a must-see attraction!
Les Jardins Biovès
Another alternative to your plan is to check out this garden
Les Jardins Biovès, a stunning stretch of manicured gardens in the heart of Menton, is a visual feast for visitors year-round. Conveniently located just steps from the Menton train station and a short walk from the city’s historic center, these gardens are a symbol of the town’s elegance and connection to nature.
Stroll along its tree-lined pathways, where fountains glisten under the Mediterranean sun and meticulously maintained flowerbeds burst with vibrant colors.
Romantic Birthday Dinner at Le Galion in Menton
That evening, I celebrated my birthday with a special dinner at Le Galion, a cozy and romantic restaurant in Menton. My husband did an amazing job choosing this spot—it was the perfect setting for a memorable night.
The atmosphere at Le Galion is intimate, with warm lighting and a charming ambiance that makes it ideal for date nights and special occasions. The food was excellent, offering a delicious selection of fresh seafood and Mediterranean flavors.
💡 Tip: Be prepared to spend a bit more, as this is a fine dining experience, but it’s well worth it for a special night out in Menton!
Day 4: Train to Nice and then A Visit to Sentier du Littoral
f you’ve read my other blog posts, you’ll know that getting around the French Riviera by train is incredibly easy. Menton’s train station is small and straightforward, making it hassle-free to navigate.
While in Nice, we joined a walking tour with Walkative Nice, and it was an unforgettable experience! Our guide, Marcin, was fantastic—his passion and expertise truly brought the city to life. The tour was originally set for 2.5 hours, but we were having such a great time that it extended to 3 hours.
💡 Tip: If you’re looking for an engaging and informative walking tour in Nice, I highly recommend Walkative Nice for a deep dive into the city’s history and culture!
For an unforgettable evening, consider a sunset hike along the Sentier du Littoral in Villefranche-sur-Mer. This scenic coastal trail offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, making it one of the best hiking experiences on the French Riviera.
To get there, we took the regional train from Nice and arrived in Villefranche-sur-Mer, where we began our walk along the picturesque waterfront. Our hike started at Plage de la Darse, where a hidden trail entrance awaits just beyond the waterfront apartment complex.
The Sentier du Littoral is a moderately challenging hike spanning 5.5 km, with an elevation gain of 145 meters. On average, the route takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes, though your pace and photo stops may affect the total time.
💡 Tip: For detailed route information and navigation, check out the trail on Komoot before setting off!
Day 5: A Visit to Maison Gannac and a Stroll around the Market
Did you know I had the chance to visit one of the biggest citrus nurseries in Menton? If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through the orchards where the famous Menton lemons and other citrus varieties are grown, this is the perfect place to experience it!
OuOur guided tour led by passionate experts who shared the rich history and cultural significance of Menton’s citrus heritage. As I walked through the orchards, I encountered a stunning variety of citrus trees, including Menton lemons, kumquats, yuzus, and caviar lemons. I was fascinated by the detailed explanations of their unique characteristics and the methods used to grow them.
The pépinière (nursery) was one of the highlights, showcasing young citrus plants at different growth stages. I learned all about the meticulous process of nurturing seedlings into fruit-bearing trees, while the family’s commitment to organic farming and environmental sustainability was evident in every step.
Why I Loved This Experience
- I got to explore one of Menton’s top citrus attractions
- I learned from expert growers about lemon cultivation and organic farming
- I strolled through beautiful orchards filled with fragrant citrus trees
If you’re a citrus lover or just looking for a unique experience in Menton, I highly recommend this guided tour—it’s an unforgettable way to dive into the world of citrus farming!
You can find out more information at Lemon Garden Guided Tour
Exploring the Markets of Menton
Of all the things to do in Menton, visiting the local markets was one of my favorite experiences. The city is home to several vibrant markets, each offering a glimpse into its rich culinary heritage.
One of the best spots is the Marché des Halles de Menton, located on Quai Monléon and open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Here, I found around thirty producers selling fresh, local products, including seasonal vegetables, juicy citrus fruits, meats, and freshly caught fish. This market felt like the beating heart of the city, filled with energy and incredible food stalls brimming with Menton’s famous lemons and fresh produce. If you love exploring markets, this is an absolute must-visit!
Another fantastic stop is the Carei Market, located at 5 Quai de Monléon. Open every day, this market offers an incredible selection of farmhouse cheeses, eggs, charcuterie, fish, olives, condiments, and spices. Whether you’re picking up ingredients for a picnic or just browsing, it’s a great way to experience Menton’s local flavors.
Don’t Miss Menton’s Local Specialties!
While exploring the markets, I couldn’t resist trying some of Menton’s signature dishes. Be sure to sample:
🍋 Lemon tarts – A sweet and tangy treat made from Menton’s famous lemons
🔥 Socca – A crispy chickpea pancake, packed with protein and absolutely delicious
🥟 Barbajuans – Savory stuffed pastries, a true local favorite
🥧 Traditional Menton pies – A perfect snack from the market stalls
We especially loved socca—it was flavorful, filling, and the perfect on-the-go snack while wandering through the markets. If you want to experience Menton like a local, visiting these markets is the way to do it!
Add on to your Itinerary
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.
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:
- 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!
Map of Menton with Markers for Everything Listed
Short FAQ about Menton
Check out my other posts about Menton⬇️
