Top activities
What to do in Menton?
All activities in Menton
Under the golden light of the Riviera, Menton reveals its gentle charm with elegance. Stroll along the sea, explore a citrus garden, dive into the azure waters, or set off to discover the hilltop villages. The museums celebrate Cocteau, the markets awaken the senses, and the scents of the South invite you to indulge. All around, the Riviera and its hinterland offer other equally appealing horizons.
Our 10 top tips in Menton
Menton reveals all its charms: relaxation in green havens, getaways to dream beaches, and captivating cultural discoveries. Discover our ideas for fully enjoying the unique atmosphere of this exceptional destination.
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Citrus garden of the Carnolès Palace
45 minutes to 1 hour
Nearby
137 varieties of citrus fruits, a well-kept park, and the elegance of a former princely palace.
Carnolès district
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Balzi Rossi
1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Nearby
Prehistoric caves, archaeological museum, and turquoise sea on the Italian border.
40 min walk from Menton
Sablettes Esplanade
1 to 2 hours
Nearby
Terraces facing the sea, children's playgrounds, and a relaxed lifestyle between the port and the Old Town.
500 m from the Royal Westminster
Must-see attractions in Menton
Menton, bathed in the light of the French Riviera, is brimming with experiences not to be missed. Between exotic gardens with enchanting scents, intimate museums, vibrant squares, and breathtaking views of the sea and mountains, the city reveals itself at every turn.
Succumb to the charm of the Halles market, the splendor of the Basilica of Saint-Michel perched high above, the poetic world of Cocteau... And to prolong the escape, a trip to Ventimiglia or Monaco invites you to combine Italian dolce vita with Monegasque prestige.
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Hilltop villages in the hinterland
1 hour 30 minutes or more
activity.place.
Sainte-Agnès, Gorbio, Castellar... Stone buildings, flower-filled alleyways, and breathtaking views between sky and sea.
In the Menton hinterland
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Jean Cocteau in Menton
1 to 2 hours
Nearby
The Bastion facing the sea, the wedding hall at City Hall: two iconic locations where you can experience the poetry of a great artist.
Downtown and seaside
Saint-Michel Basilica
30 minutes to 1 hour
Nearby
Its forecourt overlooks the town, its bell tower touches the sky. An open-air stage for the Menton Festival.
Old Town of Menton
Flavors of the South and sunny aromas
In Menton, gastronomy is all about contrasts and traditions. A golden lemon harvested from the terraced orchards, dough kneaded with skill, a drizzle of olive oil on a still-steaming socca... Each dish evokes a terroir, ancestral know-how, and gourmet memories. Between the mountains and the Mediterranean, flavors intertwine, blending Italian influences with the sunny aromas of the South of France.
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The lemon, star of Menton
15 minutes or more
Nearby
Jams, liqueurs, pies, oils... The city's emblem enhances recipes with its tangy flavor.
Throughout the city
Les Halles Market
1 to 2 hours
Nearby
Local products, flavors of the South, IGP lemons, socca... A lively encounter between taste and tradition.
Downtown
Accents of Italy
1 hour or more
Nearby
Pichade, pasta, poutine... In Menton, the table sings in two languages and Italy is a welcome guest on the plate.
Everywhere in town and across the border
Menton has everything to satisfy families!
In Menton, family vacations are synonymous with serenity and authenticity. From the Balmoral Hotel, everything you need for quality time together is within easy reach: beaches suitable for children, enchanting gardens, cultural explorations, and leisure activities for all ages. Between the sea, the mountains, and the scent of lemons, every moment becomes a memory to share.
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The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco
2 hours or more
Nearby
Over 6,000 specimens and activities for children. A fascinating marine world to explore together.
Monaco, 25 minutes from Menton
Sablettes Beach
1 hour or more
Nearby
Calm, shallow water, perfect for splashing around, having a snack, or playing in front of colorful houses
A stone's throw from the Old Town
Koaland
2 hours or more
Nearby
A small park for children with a merry-go-round and games. A hub of good cheer.
Avenue de la Madone
Wonderful nature awaits you
In Menton, nature is everywhere you turn. Between a sun-drenched coastline and forests clinging to the hillsides, the region boasts unspoiled diversity. Whether it's a secret cove, a lavender-scented trail, a viewpoint overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, or a summit to conquer, everything is easy to discover. On foot, by bike, or by sea, the possibilities for escape are endless... and just a stone's throw away.
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Mercantour National Park
Half-day or full day
Nearby
High-altitude lakes, mountain pastures, larch trees... Just 18 miles from the sea, breathtaking unspoiled nature in a national park.
Access: Sospel, La Brigue, Castérino
Bike rides and mountain biking
1 to 3 hours
Nearby
Small balcony roads, forest trails, seaside cliffs... Get on your bike and explore a region with many faces.
Departures: Menton and surrounding area
Water sports
1 hour or more
Nearby
Sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or diving: the Mediterranean is your playground. The water sports center provides equipment and instruction.
Port of Menton