Ultimate Travel Guide to Menton, France

Introduction to Menton

Menton lies serenely on the eastern French Riviera, a stone’s throw from the Italian Riviera. Often referred to as “the pearl of France”, Menton boasts a unique microclimate ideal for cultivating its renowned lemons. With sunshine for a vast majority of the year—reportedly 316 days—this charming town welcomes visitors to enjoy outdoor cafes even in winter.

While Menton may be perceived as an upscale resort, its essence is decidedly unpretentious. It features modest restaurants, predominantly Italian, while French haute cuisine is few and far between. Moroccan food is, however, quite common and invigorates the local dining scene.

Menton is characterized by lush gardens rather than haute couture shops. The city invites leisurely strolls, with historic figures such as Monet, Maupassant, and Jean Cocteau having appreciated the landscapes that Menton has to offer.

What to See and Do in Menton

Musée Municipal

Located north of the Hôtel de Ville, you will discover Menton’s Municipal Museum, which showcases a diverse collection ranging from modern art to prehistoric exhibits indigenous to the area.

Hôtel de Ville

A highlight of the town hall is the Salle des Mariages, adorned by the artist Jean Cocteau. Commissioned by the mayor, Cocteau dedicated two years, starting in 1957, to create stunning frescoes that now grace this room.

Salle des Mariages
17 rue de la République F
06500 Menton
Phone: 04 92 10 50 20

Jardin Biovès and Jardin Botanique

Menton’s favorable climate supports a variety of magnificent gardens, with the Jardin Biovès being a notable destination. Located at 8 Avenue Boyer, it is adjacent to the Belle Epoque Palais d’Europe, which currently serves as a Cultural Center and Tourist Office.

Market Hall

The Market Hall operates daily from 6 am until noon. Visitors can enjoy an antique market on Fridays and a flea market on Saturdays in the adjacent parking lot. Inside the Market Hall, vendors offer wine, cheese, and bread, enabling you to assemble a delightful picnic or a complete meal.

Finding Jean Cocteau in Menton

Jean Cocteau had a significant presence along the Côte d’Azur. In Menton, aside from the aforementioned Salle des Mariages, visitors can explore additional works of Cocteau at the Bastion and the nearby Jean Cocteau-Severin Wunderman Museum.

Le Bastion, Jean Cocteau Museum

The Bastion, constructed in 1619 by the Prince of Monaco to protect the Bay of Menton, was transformed into a museum under Cocteau’s vision. He executed extensive renovations, incorporating his artistic designs into the museum’s features such as staircases, mosaics, and ceramics.

Open year-round from 10 am to 12 pm and 2 pm to 6 pm, it closes on Tuesdays and public holidays.

Jean Cocteau-Severin Wunderman Museum

The Severin Wunderman collection, birthed from a unique vision by the watch manufacturer for Gucci, boasts an impressive array of works, totaling 1,800, with 990 attributed to Cocteau, including intricate drawings, exquisite ceramics, and mesmerizing photography. This museum, established on November 6, 2011, resides at 2, quai de Monléon in a design created by Rudy Ricciotti.

The museum welcomes guests daily, except Tuesdays and holidays, from 10 am to 6 pm.

Places to Stay in Menton

Menton offers a wide variety of accommodations, allowing you to find reasonably priced hotels, especially during the offseason, when the climate remains mild. Numerous hotels and vacation rentals are available, and the top-rated Hotel Napoleon stands out as an exemplary choice. If you desire a more rural experience along the Côte d’Azur, consider opting for a vacation rental, perhaps a modern condo with stunning views.

Menton: The Bottom Line

Menton is an inviting destination, especially in the offseason. Spring visitors should not overlook the renowned lemons and the annual Lemon Festival. Active travelers may enjoy walks to neighboring Ventimiglia or even Monaco along the scenic coastal path, although trains offer a convenient alternative. For those with vehicles, Menton serves as an excellent base for exploring perched villages in the region.

Moreover, Menton is home to stunning beaches and a charming casino situated right by the shoreline. In conclusion, Menton offers a tranquil retreat, making it an ideal spot to recharge for further explorations of the Provence Alpes Côte d’Azur region.