Menton is compact enough to explore in a day, with the old town, markets, gardens and Mediterranean all within easy reach of each other. Start near the seafront, where the view towards the colourful historic centre gives one of the best introductions to the city.

From here, walk into Vieux Menton and towards the steep streets surrounding the Basilique Saint-Michel-Archange. Ochre, yellow and terracotta façades reflect Menton's proximity to Italy, while stairways and narrow passages gradually lead away from the busier waterfront.

Continue towards the centre and spend some time around the local shops and market. Lemons are closely associated with Menton and appear throughout the city in food, drinks, fragrances and decorative products. Eau de Menton, founded in Menton in 1947, is one of the local names connected to this citrus tradition.

Lunch can be kept simple. Pick up bread, fruit and local produce for a picnic by the water, or choose one of the cafés and restaurants around the old town and seafront.

The afternoon is a good time to see another side of Menton. The city is known for its gardens, including the Jardin Serre de la Madone and Jardin Val Rahmeh, where the mild climate has allowed Mediterranean and subtropical plants to flourish.

Before leaving, return to the waterfront for a walk along the beach and harbour. Menton's position between the mountains, the Mediterranean and the Italian border makes it an interesting final stop on the eastern Côte d’Azur, or a destination for a day in its own right.

A simple way to plan the day

Morning · seafront and Vieux Menton
Late morning · old town, market and local shops
Lunch · picnic by the sea or lunch in town
Afternoon · visit one of Menton's gardens
Early evening · walk along the waterfront and harbour

Inspired by Menton’s famous lemons?
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