The Perfect One Day in Menton Itinerary: Discover Hidden Gems
Last Updated on 03/06/2026 by Mayi
Planning a trip to the South of France and considering including Menton? Check out this one day in Menton itinerary for ideas.
Menton is a small town in the Côte d’Azur, renowned as the world capital of lemons. It is located at the far eastern end of southern France, just a few kilometres from the Italian border. Although the town celebrates its Fête du Citron every February, it deserves to be visited all year round.
I spent one day in Menton on a week-long trip exploring Nice and Monaco. I loved visiting Menton and discovering the picturesque old town and the charming “Dolce Vita” atmosphere. In this blog, I’ll give you ideas of things to do and see if, just like me, you had only one day to spend in Menton.
Perfect Menton One Day Itinerary
With only one day to explore Menton, we focused on the town’s must-see attractions and must-do things to do in Menton. From strolling the streets of the old town to stocking up on local products, Menton is a great small city worth exploring. Here’s your one-day itinerary to Menton, the most Italian city in France.
Why visit Menton?
Menton is a delightful town with many points of interest for visitors: a rich heritage, a bright old town with quaint narrow streets, great food, incredible gardens with tropical plants, and the Mediterranean Sea and beaches. The town also benefits from sunny and warmer weather all year round, making it an ideal winter sun destination.
Let’s get started: Here are the best things to do during a day trip to Menton!
The Must-Sees of Menton in One Day
The Old Town of Menton
If you are familiar with my blog, you will know that I love exploring the old town centre. And Menton was no different. I loved how simple yet charming the town was with its narrow streets, facades in various shades of ochre tones, flower-filled balconies and laundry drying on the windows. The locals chatting by their doorsteps adds to the image of Menton, a welcoming town with an Italian flair, after all, Menton is the last French town before the Italian border!
Wandering aimlessly through the maze of alleys and taking your time soaking in the atmosphere is one of Menton’s best things to do. Since the old town centre is built on a hillside, there will be lots of going up and down as you stroll the streets. Do not hesitate to look up and admire the details of the houses and building facades.
Walk the Saint-Michel Ramps
The Rampes Saint-Michel, seen from the promenade, is an impressive baroque staircase leading to the parvis of the Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel. The staircase is one of the most iconic places in Menton, so it is a must during your day trip.
Built with 250,000 pebbles forming the Grimaldi family coat of arms, it’s a picturesque way to ascend to the Old Town. As you stand at the top of the Saint-Michel Ramp, you can’t but admire the contrast of the winding stairs in vivid yellow and orange hues and the azure blue of the sea.
Shop at the Central Market Halls
When looking for things to do in Menton or anywhere in the South of France, visit the Les Halles market. Located in the heart of Menton’s pedestrian shopping area, the beautiful Halles Market is open every morning until 1 p.m.
It’s a great place to stock up on local Provençal products. The covered market welcomes locals and visitors looking for anything from fresh produce, vegetables, fruit and meat.
Marvel at Menton’s Churches
While exploring the town, you will stumble upon key landmarks such as churches. The Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel (Basilique Saint-Michel Archange de Menton) is the most visited church in Menton. It was built in the 15th century but renovated in the 19th century to fit in with the other baroque buildings in the square, such as the Yellow Bell Tower.
Another key landmark to admire is the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception or Chapel of the White Penitents, which has a pinkish baroque facade. Lastly, the Chapel of the Black Penitents or Mercy Chapel ends this ensemble of baroque churches. The Mercy Chapel can be visited on Wednesday afternoons for a €3 guided tour.
Visit the Jean Cocteau Bastion Museum
Jean Cocteau, a renowned artist, writer, and filmmaker, had a significant connection with the French Riviera. His creative influence can be seen from Antibes to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, including the town of Menton. If you want to follow in his footsteps, begin your journey at the Jean Cocteau Museum.
This museum is dedicated to the artist and features the Séverin Wunderman collection, showcasing his works from 1910 to 1950.
Additionally, there is a smaller museum near the old port called the Bastion Museum. Located within a restored fort, this museum was designed by Cocteau himself to exhibit his artworks. It offers a more intimate and dimly lit experience compared to the Jean Cocteau Museum, which is more open and filled with light, emphasising its white décor.
Both museums are open Wednesday through Monday from 10 AM to 6 PM. Admission is €5 (£4) and includes access to the Musée du Bastion during the same hours.
Discover the Old Port of Menton
The Vieux Port de Menton, or Old Port of Menton, is located near the town’s historic bastion. This area offers some of the most breathtaking views of Menton, showcasing a mosaic of pastel-coloured old-town facades and elegant bell towers.
You can stroll along both the Vieux Port and the Port de Garavan. The harbour features well-paved promenades, perfect for leisurely afternoon walks while you admire the boats and yachts anchored in the port. There are also plenty of options for drinks and meals along the promenade.
Additionally, take advantage of Menton’s coastal location by enjoying a boat ride to explore the town’s stunning coastline, as well as nearby Monaco and the Italian Riviera.
Relax at the Plage des Sablettes or other Menton’s Beaches
Even on a day trip to Menton, visiting one of the town’s beaches is a must. After all, being a coastal city, Menton is surrounded by several beaches. So, whether you’re in Menton or along the Riviera, there are a variety of options suitable for everyone.
Plage des Sablettes is the largest beach in Menton. It features fine gravel and sand, making it a great choice for a quick visit. Located next to the historic quarter, it’s a perfect spot for swimming. The Sablettes Esplanade, lined with palm trees, pergolas, cafes, restaurants, and shops, provides everything you need to enjoy your time by the beach.
Other beaches in Menton include Plage de Fossan (non-smoking), Plage du Casino, opposite the Casino, which features large pebbles with sandy patches, and Plage du Marché, known for its small pebbles.
If you’re travelling by car and spending more days in Menton, consider exploring the smaller Le Buse Beach or Cabbé Beach, both located in Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.
Stroll Val Rahmeh Botanical and Exotic Garden
Menton is home to nearly a dozen large gardens, some designated as “Jardins Remarquables” or exceptional gardens or listed as Historic Monuments. The closest to the old town is the Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden, located in the hills of the Garavan neighbourhood.
Originally acquired in 1905 by Sir Percy Radcliffe, this estate became a garden surrounding a villa named Rahmeh after his wife. In 1957, the new owner, Miss May Campbell, transformed the property into an exceptional exotic garden.
The French Natural History Museum acquired it in 1966 and turned it into a full-fledged botanical garden. It now covers over one hectare and hosts over 1,700 exotic plant species, from palm groves to bamboo forests, succulents, and Mediterranean flowers.
Other gardens in Menton include the Serre de la Madone Garden, La Citronneraie, Domaine des Colombières Garden, Fontana Rosa Garden, and Villa Maria Serena Garden.
The garden is open Wednesday through Monday from 10 AM to 5 PM (November to March) or 10 AM to 6 PM (April to October). Admission is €8 (£7).
Enjoy Menton’s delicious food
La Mandibule Restaurant
After a day of exploring the town, nothing feels better than enjoying a well-deserved meal. Located on the Promenade du Soleil, this restaurant is situated right by the beach and offers stunning views.
We ordered moules marinières, gambas with rice (though the rice portion was the smallest I’ve ever seen), and salmon dishes. Everything was delicious, and the service was impeccable.
Pizzeria Pecora Negra
This pizzeria, located near the port, offers beautiful views of the harbour. I really wanted to try the Three Cheese Pizza, but unfortunately, the restaurant couldn’t accommodate us.
Coffee Shop Eunoia
We stopped by this lovely coffee shop to enjoy something sweet. They have a variety of treats, including cakes, cookies, cheesecakes, granola, and more. It’s a great place to find homemade and delicious options.
Practical information
How long will it take to visit Menton?
One day in Menton is enough to explore the main highlights, such as the Old Town and the beach. To explore all of the gardens and leisurely appreciate Menton’s charm, I would suggest 2 to 3 days.
When to visit Menton?
Menton is a year-round destination thanks to its mild and sunny climate. Each season offers unique experiences:
- Winter: Wander through quiet streets (some restaurants and attractions may be closed) and attend the famous Lemon Festival (15th February to 2nd March 2025). Winter is also the season for blooming mimosas.
- Spring: Ideal time to visit since the weather is milder. Hike the Mercantour National Park or visit the Cannes Film Festival or the Monaco Grand Prix if you don’t mind busy places.
- Summer: Enjoy beaches and water sports, but expect crowds and high temperatures during this peak tourist season.
- Autumn: Experience an “Indian summer,” relax on calmer beaches, and explore the old town at your own pace. This is my favourite time to visit the South of France!
How to get to Menton?
Menton, located near the Italian border, is easily accessible by bus, car, train, and plane. A day trip to Menton is convenient from anywhere in the French Riviera, including Nice, Monaco, Antibes, Èze, and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
By Bus
From Nice, two bus lines connect to Menton via Ligne Azur:
- Line 600 & 601: This line, accessible from Nice Square Normandie Niemen stop to Menton Gare Routière stop, offers a scenic coastal route, taking about 1 hour. If you plan to travel during the night, then take Line 601 bus instead. A one-way journey costs 2.50€ and takes about 1 hour 15 minutes.
By Car
From Nice, there are four routes:
- A8 Motorway (“La Provençale”): This route is the fastest and takes about 35 minutes. Take exit 59 (Menton). It’s worth noting that it is often congested in summer.
- Basse Corniche (D6098): A coastal route passing through Villefranche-sur-Mer, Èze, and Monaco. Offers breathtaking views.
- Moyenne Corniche (D6007): This route avoids passing via Monaco and also offers scenic views.
- Grande Corniche (D2564): Offers stunning panoramas before merging with the Basse Corniche near Cap Martin. This route is winding; therefore, you must drive more carefully.
From Italy, options include the A8 (Exit 59 or 58) or the A10/E80 (Exit 20, Ventimiglia).
If you are looking for parking spaces, several paid car parks will be around the town, especially along Avenue Porte de France.
By Train
If you’re planning a day trip from Nice to Menton, taking the train is the most convenient option. Trains leave from several stations in Nice, including Nice Saint-Augustin, Nice Ville, and Nice Riquier. You can arrive at the following stations:
- Menton Station: Central station and serves TGV and TER trains. About a 10-minute walk to the Old Town.
- Menton-Garavan Station: Close to the Italian border, ideal for scenic walks near the harbour.
A direct train from Nice to Menton takes about 35 to 40 minutes. You can purchase tickets at one of the many ticket machines at the train station or online. You can find all the train schedules and buy tickets on this page. A return ticket costs €13, and the train ride offers scenic views of the coastline.
By Plane
From Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport, you can reach Menton via:
- Bus Line 110
- Train from Nice Saint-Augustin Station (a 15-minute walk from Terminal 1) to Menton.
- Rental car. We recommend renting a car in France through DiscoverCars. Find out how to book your rental car here.
IThis concludes our one day in Menton article. had a wonderful day exploring the beautiful town of Menton, which is a charming old town with a picturesque harbour and a delightful atmosphere. Even though I visited in autumn, I found the town to be bright and warm.
There are plenty of things to do in Menton, yet it remains a hidden gem with fewer tourists than some of its nearby neighbours. Menton is worth adding to your itinerary if you are spending time in the Côte d’Azur.
If you enjoyed reading this One Day in Menton post, you may also like these guides to the South of France:
- Exploring the Regions of France – All You Need to Know
- Nice in Winter: Top Things to Do in Nice
- Best Things to Do in Saint-Paul de Vence – The Ultimate Guide
- The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Cassis, France
- The Best Things to Do in Aix-en-Provence, France
- 3 Days in Marseille, France
- Top 18 Things to Do in Marseille, France
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While Menton looks like a great place to visit any time of year, I’d love to be able to synch up a visit with the Fête du Citron.
Such a detailed post! So many things tow experience there. The beach looks super clean.
Thanks. The beach was very clean indeed, just like naywhere in Monaco.