Would you like us to call you back? It's free!
Our 10 top tips in Menton
Precious moments on the Riviera
As you stroll through the sun-drenched alleyways, the sea draws nearer... The air is filled with the scent of citrus fruits and holidays. The sun caresses the colorful facades and casts its changing reflections on the blue water. The city gently reveals itself, with its secret gardens, golden beaches, hilltop villages, and paths that run along the sea or climb up into the mountains. Here is a selection of ways to discover beautiful Menton and its region, offering many different ways to embrace the city and its vast horizon.
The citrus garden at the Palais Carnolès
The sumptuous garden at the Palais Carnolès surrounds the former summer residence of the Princes of Monaco. Covering one hectare of meticulously laid out grounds, it is home to 137 varieties of citrus fruit, recognized as a National Collection by the Conservatoire des Collections Végétales Spécialisées (Conservatory of Specialized Plant Collections). Sweet orange trees, bitter orange trees, kumquats, lemon trees, and grapefruit trees create a fragrant and colorful landscape that can be explored freely or on a guided tour. Strolling in the shade of these century-old giants, visitors will be surprised by subtle scents, vibrant colors, and unfamiliar fruits... A true sensory journey into the kingdom of citrus fruits.
Parc du Pian, under the shade of olive trees
Facing the sea, Parc du Pian unfurls its terraces planted with 540 olive trees, some of which are several hundred years old. Listed as a Historic Monument, this 3-hectare olive grove is a world apart, where gnarled trees continue to symbolize abundance, glory, wisdom, and peace. In spring, herds come to graze among the dry stones, reviving the ancient practice of eco-grazing. People come here to walk, picnic with their families, and dream in the silvery shade of the foliage that has stood the test of time.
The Trophy of Augustus, imperial stone in La Turbie
In La Turbie, high above the coast, a stone silhouette has been defying the sky for over two thousand years. The Trophy of Augustus, a monumental remnant of the Roman Empire, stands 35 meters high. Built to commemorate Rome's victory over the Alpine peoples, it now overlooks the Riviera, offering a breathtaking view of the Bay of Monaco. At the foot of the monument, a small museum tells the story of the Via Julia Augusta and the secrets of the site. A majestic stopover, between ancient memory and Mediterranean panorama.
First, a taste of Italy just a stone's throw away
Close to your hotel in Menton, on the harbor, Primo Atelier Della Pasta perpetuates the spirit of large Italian dinner parties. The chef cultivates the heritage of his native land, combining simple flavors with meticulous technique. Fresh pasta and fine wine... His cuisine elevates excellent ingredients and offers traditional dishes with a touch of imagination.
A drink in the sun, on the Esplanade des Sablettes
500 meters from the hotel, facing the Old Port, the Esplanade des Sablettes traces wide wooden curves between the sea and the old town. Designed as a meeting place open to all, it is very popular with the people of Menton. You can sit on the terrace, raise a glass, watch the children run around and the boats bob up and down. A gentle atmosphere, both lively and rejuvenating.
Les Sablettes Beach
Surrounded by two ports and nestled against the old town, Les Sablettes Beach is a living painting: pastel facades, golden light, mountains in the background. Here, there are no pebbles underfoot—only fine gravel and a gentle slope, ideal for swimming with children. The carefully designed pedestrian promenade runs along the shore, lined with inviting terraces. Under the peaceful gaze of the Alps, Menton offers you its most tender charm.
Balzi Rossi, between caves and turquoise sea
In Italy, but only a 30-minute walk away, the Balzi Rossi archaeological site, one of the most important in the Mediterranean, reveals 25,000 years of human history. Monumental caves, ancient tombs, statues of Venus, flint tools... The museum, commissioned in 1898 by Thomas Hanbury, displays its many treasures. Below, the sea reclaims its rights: crystal-clear waters, pale rocks, private coves and freely accessible beaches. You'll be close by, but already far away...
The Cap Martin Trail
Following in the footsteps of customs officers and Winston Churchill, the Cap Martin coastal path stretches for 4.7 kilometers along the sea and bathed in light. From Carnolès train station or the Menton seafront, you enter a vibrant Mediterranean landscape: pebbles, rough rocks, fragrant pine trees, and cliffs bathed in sea spray. The path, which is almost flat, is ideal for family walks all year round. As you walk along, signs reveal the history of the area and the works of Le Corbusier, such as his cabanon facing the sea.
Meet the lemon growers of Menton
La Ferme des Citrons is the largest lemon farm in Menton IGP. Its orchard stretches between century-old olive trees and giant avocado trees, with the sea below. The visit continues with a country lunch featuring Menton specialties. Further down, at Maison Gannac, Laurent and his son Adrien talk passionately about their citrus fruits, share their expertise, and invite you to taste their creations—jams, limoncello, olive paste, and more. Two places, two tangy atmospheres, one shared love of lemons.
