Things To Do
in Menton
Menton, France is a picturesque coastal town located on the French Riviera. Known for its colorful old town, historic architecture, and sunny climate, Menton attracts visitors seeking a relaxing Mediterranean getaway. The town is famous for its annual Lemon Festival, celebrating Menton's history of lemon cultivation.
With its stunning sea views, lush gardens, and charming streets, Menton offers a tranquil retreat on the CĂŽte d'Azur.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $200
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Menton and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café with a view of the Mediterranean.
Stroll through the quaint streets of Old Menton, exploring the colorful buildings and vibrant flowers. Visit the historic Basilica of Saint Michael for some cultural appreciation.
Have dinner at a seaside restaurant, sampling some local seafood. Take a sunset walk along the Promenade du Soleil to bask in the evening light.
Visit the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, home to a variety of exotic plants. Spend some time enjoying the peaceful surroundings and taking photos.
Head to the Serre de la Madone, another beautiful garden that showcases stunning flora. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the gardens.
Dine in the old town at a traditional French bistro. Engage in people-watching as the streets buzz with activity at night.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Menton has a beautiful Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it an attractive destination year-round.
- The town is known for its stunning gardens and botanical parks, including the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden.
- Menton's picturesque old town features charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, and a variety of local shops and cafes.
- The town boasts beautiful beaches along the French Riviera, offering opportunities for sunbathing and water sports.
- Menton is rich in history and culture, with several museums and annual festivals, such as the Lemon Festival, that attract visitors.
- Menton can be quite touristy, especially during peak season, which may lead to crowded streets and beaches.
- The cost of living can be high compared to other towns in France, particularly when it comes to housing and dining.
- Limited public transportation options may require visitors to rely on cars or taxis for longer distances.
- The area can experience occasional flooding, especially during intense rainfall, which can disrupt daily life.
- English is not as widely spoken as in other tourist areas, which might pose a challenge for non-French speaking visitors.
Best Activities in Menton
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy beautiful views and peaceful surroundings while hiking in the Serre de la Madone nature reserve.
Unwind and soak up the sun at the scenic Plage des Sablettes beach, known for its clear waters and picturesque setting.
Stroll through the lovely Jardins BiovĂšs and admire the diverse plant species, including exotic Mediterranean flora.
Cycle along the stunning Promenade du Soleil, a picturesque coastal path offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Tours
Uncover the best of Menton with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Menton
Visit one of these nice places.
Located nearby in Monaco, the gardens offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding area, perfect for photography.
This historic citadel offers panoramic views of the coastline and the town, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Food in Menton
Menton Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Barbajuan is a savory pastry filled with Swiss chard, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese, which is then deep-fried to golden perfection. Try this delightful dish at La Pizza Cresci, a renowned bakery in Menton.
Must-Try!
PissaladiÚre is a delectable onion tart seasoned with anchovies and olives, embodying the essence of Provençal cuisine. Find authentic PissaladiÚre at Le Francois 1er, a charming boulangerie in the heart of the town.
Socca is a savory chickpea pancake, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. For an authentic taste, visit the bustling market on Rue Saint-Michel where you'll find street vendors selling freshly made Socca.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Menton better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Les Halles de Menton is a vibrant indoor food market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and seafood. It's an ideal place to immerse in the local food culture and indulge in some authentic street food such as Pan Bagnat (a traditional sandwich from Nice), and fougasse (a type of French bread).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Menton, it is polite to greet people with a handshake, kiss on both cheeks, or a simple 'Bonjour' depending on the level of familiarity.
When dining in Menton, it is customary to keep your hands on the table at all times, avoid putting elbows on the table, and wait until the host starts eating before you begin.
It is important to be mindful of personal space in Menton, giving people their physical distance, especially during conversations and public interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Menton
Ensure a smooth experience
In Menton, France, tipping is generally included in the service charge or added to the bill. However, it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small additional tip for exceptional service, typically around 5-10% of the total bill.
In Menton, France, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Many places, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major international credit cards. It's always advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and to inquire about card acceptance beforehand.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Menton, with mild temperatures and the famous Lemon Festival taking place in February-March.
Expect warm weather and crowded beaches as tourists flock to the French Riviera for vacation.
Menton is still warm in the early autumn months, but less crowded than in the summer.
Mild temperatures make it a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter atmosphere, but some attractions and activities may be closed.
Menton at Night
Hiking in Menton
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A coastal path that offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and the cliffs along the coast. It is a relatively easy hike with opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
A hike offering panoramic views of Menton and the surrounding coastline. The path is moderate and takes hikers through forested areas and rocky terrains.
This trail around Cap Martin features beautiful sea views and secluded coves. It's a great spot for those looking for a combination of hiking and beach time.
A historic path that follows the ridge overlooking the French Riviera. The hike is moderate and features several viewpoints for photography and relaxation.
Located a bit further from Menton, this national park offers numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, with breathtaking mountain landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Menton by plane.
The largest airport in the CĂŽte d'Azur region, located approximately 30 km from Menton, serving numerous international destinations.
Located in Cagliari, this international airport serves as another option, though further away, located approximately 200 km from Menton.
Situated in Genoa, Italy, about 180 km away from Menton, it offers several international flights.
While not a traditional airport, this heliport provides quick international access to and from Monaco, which is approximately 8 km from Menton.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Menton, representing a significant demographic group with deep historical roots in the region.
Due to its proximity to the Italian border, Menton has a sizeable community of Italian citizens, contributing to the local culture and economy.
A notable presence of British nationals who have settled in Menton, attracted by the climate and lifestyle.
The Dutch community in Menton is growing, with many individuals and families choosing to relocate to the area.
A significant demographic segment in Menton, reflecting the town's appeal as a retirement destination.
An emerging group in the demographic landscape, comprising individuals seeking work opportunities in the tourism and service sectors.
Although not a permanent demographic group, tourists significantly impact the local economy and cultural scene, particularly during peak seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Menton, with numerous local teams and a community that actively participates in the sport.
Tennis is widely played in Menton, with several clubs and courts available for both recreational players and competitive leagues.
Given its coastal location, sailing is a favored activity in Menton, with opportunities for both beginners and experienced sailors to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea.
Cycling is popular in the scenic areas around Menton, appealing to both leisure cyclists and serious enthusiasts with access to beautiful routes.
Swimming is a favored sport in Menton, particularly during the summer, with the beach offering a perfect setting for both leisure and competitive swimming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Menton.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Menton's culinary scene caters well to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering creative plant-based dishes. Le Végétarien du Marché is a wonderful spot for flavorful vegetarian cuisine.
Travelers with gluten intolerance can savor delightful gluten-free delicacies at Tchicky Monky, a cozy cafe serving a range of gluten-free treats and meals.