About Menton
Tucked between Monaco and the Italian border, Menton is one of the French Riviera’s best-kept secrets. Known as the Pearl of France, this seaside town is famous for its colorful pastel houses, charming Old Town, Baroque churches, and, of course, its annual Lemon Festival. With nearly 300 days of sunshine a year, Menton offers a more relaxed, authentic vibe compared to its glitzy neighbors like Nice or Cannes.
When I visited Menton in August, I was immediately struck by the colorful buildings. They don’t just brighten up the streets, they brighten up your mood, too. Walking through the town instantly puts you in a vacation state of mind. That’s why Menton stands out among Riviera towns: it feels cheerful, warm, and effortlessly inviting.
If you only have one day in Menton, here’s exactly how to make the most of it.
Best Time to Visit Menton
Spring (March–May): Flowers in bloom, fewer tourists, great weather.
Summer (June–August): Hot and lively, perfect for beach time and festivals (I visited in August and loved the energy).
Autumn (September–October): Warm days, quieter vibe, great for sightseeing.
Winter (February): The Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) is a one-of-a-kind experience.
👉 The best balance? Late spring or early autumn, when the sun is still strong but the crowds have thinned.
How to Get to Menton
By car from Milan: ~3.5 hours of scenic driving. This was my route, and I loved the flexibility of stopping along the way.
By train: Direct trains connect Menton to Nice, Monaco, and Ventimiglia. From Paris, take the TGV to Nice and then transfer.
By plane: Fly into Nice Côte d’Azur Airport, about 40 minutes from Menton. Add Priority Pass for a smoother journey.
👉 For the best experience, rent a car — it gives you the freedom to explore nearby gems like Èze, Monaco, and Ventimiglia. Compare deals on DiscoverCars . And don’t forget travel insurance through VisitorsCoverage.
One Day in Menton Itinerary
Morning – Old Town & Promenade
Start in the Old Town with its cobbled lanes and pastel houses.
Visit the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange, one of the Riviera’s most beautiful Baroque churches.
Walk along the Promenade du Soleil, where sea meets sunshine.
👉 Book a guided walking tour of Menton through GetYourGuide or Viator to dive deeper into its history.
Lunch – Local Flavors
Mirazur – World-famous 3 Michelin-star restaurant (reserve months ahead).
Le Petit Port – Cozy spot for fresh seafood.
A Boire à Manger – A casual choice with Provençal dishes.
NB: I didn’t take photos of the food during lunch, but the food was really delicious. If I remember well, I had mussels with wine and garlic sauce.
Afternoon – Gardens & Culture
Explore Jardin Serre de la Madone or Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden (tickets here).
Stop by the Jean Cocteau Museum, dedicated to the French artist who adored Menton.
Shop for lemon-themed products, from marmalades to citron liqueur.
Evening – Sunset & Dinner
Swim or relax at Plage des Sablettes, the best beach in Menton.
End your day with dinner at Maison Martin et Fils or La Mandibule, both offering delicious Riviera cuisine.
Where to Stay in Menton (Even for One Night)
Even if you’re only visiting for a day, Menton makes a perfect overnight stop.
Budget: Hôtel Lemon Booking.com
Mid-range: Hôtel Riva Art & Spa Booking.com
Luxury: Hôtel Napoléon Booking.com
How Many Days in Menton?
If you’re short on time, one day in Menton is enough to get a real feel for the town. But ideally, I recommend staying 2–3 days to fully enjoy the beaches, gardens, and nearby Riviera gems.
👉 If you’re looking for more French inspiration, don’t miss my Ultimate Gordes Travel Guide.
What to Pack for Menton
Comfortable walking shoes: The Old Town is hilly with cobblestones.
Light, breathable clothing: Summers are hot!
Swimsuit: For a dip at Plage des Sablettes.
Sunscreen, hat & sunglasses: Menton is famously sunny.
Camera or phone: To capture the bright colors and Riviera views.
Is Menton Good for Solo Travelers, Couples, or Families?
Absolutely, Menton suits every type of traveler:
Solo travelers: It’s safe, walkable, and full of cultural gems.
Couples: Romantic sunsets, seaside dinners, and colorful streets make it a dream escape.
Families: Plenty of gardens, beaches, and outdoor activities for kids.
PS: Are You Booking a Trip Soon? Use My Booking Checklist!
These are my go-to platforms for booking. Using these links supports my travel blog at no extra cost to you:
Hotels: Booking.com, Expedia
Tours & Activities: GetYourGuide, Viator
Car Rentals: DiscoverCars,
Insurance: VisitorsCoverage
Priority Pass: PriorityPass add-ons
👉 Want help planning? Get my travel itinerary template here.
Conclusion – Make the Most of One Day in Menton
Spending one day in Menton is enough to experience its essence: the colorful Old Town, seaside views, lush gardens, and delicious food. I loved how the pastel buildings immediately lifted my mood — they make Menton feel like an endless summer holiday.
Whether you’re solo, a couple, or traveling with family, Menton is a place where time slows down and every corner begs to be photographed. With its blend of French elegance and Italian charm, this little Riviera gem will steal your heart.
So pack your comfortable shoes, book your stay on Booking.com or Expedia, and plan your activities with GetYourGuide or Viator. One thing’s for sure: Menton is the kind of place you’ll always want to return to.
NB: Save these pins for later when you are dreaming of visiting Menton.
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