Menthon Beach
A vibrant jewel on the French Riviera, Menton captivates with its colorful Italianate architecture, fragrant lemon groves, and relaxed seaside charm.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wisteria season blooms
Menthon Beach
Best Time
Wisteria season blooms

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant jewel on the French Riviera, Menton captivates with its colorful Italianate architecture, fragrant lemon groves, and relaxed seaside charm.
"Menton is a beautiful, peaceful beach with stunning views of the lake and the majestic mountains behind you."
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in April to witness the town adorned with blooming wisteria. Truly unforgettable! :sparkles:
🚆 Easy Train Access
Menton is a convenient train stop from Nice, perfect for day trips. :train2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Old Town Charm
Wander through colorful, narrow streets and discover hidden squares. A true gem of the French Riviera.

St. Michel Church Views
Climb to the church square for breathtaking panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea.

Sablettes Beach
Enjoy this picturesque beach with its iconic skyline view of Menton. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.

Confiseries Herbin
Indulge your sweet tooth at this historic confectionery, a local favorite for traditional treats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in April to witness the town adorned with blooming wisteria. Truly unforgettable!
:sparkles:🚆 Easy Train Access
Menton is a convenient train stop from Nice, perfect for day trips.
:train2:🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover Menton's charm is by walking its narrow streets and waterfront. :walking:
🏖️ Beach Bliss
Sablettes Beach offers great views and a relaxed atmosphere. Entry is free after 7 PM.
:beachwithumbrella:Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Wisteria Season Magic
Visit in April to witness the town adorned with blooming wisteria. Truly unforgettable!
:sparkles:🚆 Easy Train Access
Menton is a convenient train stop from Nice, perfect for day trips.
:train2:🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The best way to discover Menton's charm is by walking its narrow streets and waterfront. :walking:
🏖️ Beach Bliss
Sablettes Beach offers great views and a relaxed atmosphere. Entry is free after 7 PM.
:beachwithumbrella:🍬 Sweet Souvenirs
Don't miss Confiseries Herbin for delicious local candies and treats.
:candy:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Menton is praised for its vibrant colors, peaceful atmosphere, and authentic charm, offering a delightful alternative to busier Riviera towns. Visitors appreciate the scenic beauty, the unique lemon heritage, and the ease of access via train. Some find the pebbly beaches less ideal than sandy ones, and parking can be a challenge.
"A beautiful, peaceful beach with stunning views of the lake and the majestic mountains behind you.
-ample parking
- we paid around 9 euro for two adults and a child under three
- clean facilities, bar, restaurant, toilets and changing cabinets
- there is a toddler pool a bit further in from the (pebbly) beach but unfortunately it was closed at the time of our visit (4th July); however there’s another shallow pebbly area where small children can play"
Zsofia Orban
"Nice swimming spot in the Annecy lake. Free parking, payed entry. No supping allowed!!
It’s guarded and there are some playing facilities, which is great!"
Bas van de Ven
"Nice beach, I would give a 4.5. although it was a Saturday when I was there with almost 30 degrees heat, it was not overcrowded or disturbing. Nice folk. And oke snack bar."
evrim akar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Menton is easily reachable by train from Nice. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes and offers scenic coastal views.
Trains run frequently throughout the day.Yes, Menton is well-connected by the regional train network (TER) along the French Riviera, making it easy to visit from neighboring towns like Monaco and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Driving to Menton is possible, but parking can be challenging, especially during peak season. The train is often a more convenient option for visitors.
The closest major airport to Menton is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE). From there, you can take a train or bus to Menton.
Absolutely! Menton is a perfect day trip from Nice or Monaco, offering a charming and less crowded alternative to its more famous neighbors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Some beaches, like Sablettes Beach, have a small entry fee (around 4.50 euro per person) but are free after 7 PM. This often includes parking.
Opening hours vary for specific attractions like museums and shops. It's best to check individual listings, but many shops in the old town are open during typical daytime hours.
For general exploration of the town and beaches, no advance booking is usually required. However, for specific tours or popular restaurants, booking ahead is recommended.
While there isn't a specific 'Menton Pass' like in larger cities, purchasing a regional train ticket allows easy access to Menton and other Riviera towns.
Most shops and restaurants accept credit cards, but it's always good to have some Euros in cash for smaller purchases or market stalls.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the colorful Old Town, the St. Michel Church for its views, Sablettes Beach, and the historic Confiseries Herbin for local sweets.
Menton is generally less crowded than Nice or Cannes, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. Weekdays and the shoulder seasons (spring/fall) are particularly peaceful.
Menton has mostly pebbly beaches, with Sablettes Beach being a popular choice for its views and amenities.
Yes, some beaches have shallow areas suitable for children, and the town offers a pleasant environment for family strolls.
Menton is known for its vibrant colors, Italian influence, and a more laid-back, authentic Riviera charm compared to its bustling neighbors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Menton is famous for its lemons! Look for dishes featuring lemon, such as lemon tarts, lemon chicken, or the local 'Menton lemon' ice cream.
Yes, Menton offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, many serving fresh seafood and Provençal cuisine.
Confiseries Herbin is the place to go for traditional candies and sweets, especially those made with local lemons.
Most restaurants will have vegetarian options, often featuring fresh local produce, salads, and pasta dishes.
Lunch is typically served from around 12 PM to 2 PM, and dinner from 7 PM onwards. Some places may close between lunch and dinner.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful buildings of the Old Town, the view from St. Michel Church, Sablettes Beach, and the vibrant wisteria in April are all incredibly photogenic.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for capturing the town's colors. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant hues still pop.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in France. It's essential to check local rules and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the narrow streets.
Yes, Sablettes Beach offers great photo opportunities, especially with the town's colorful backdrop. Consider capturing the reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Getting to Menton by train is an adventure in itself for kids, and the town's slower pace compared to larger Riviera cities can be more enjoyable for younger travelers. Don't forget to visit Confiseries Herbin for a sweet treat that will surely be a hit!
💰 Budget Travelers
Opting for picnics with local produce from markets or enjoying casual eateries can save money on food. Some beaches, like Sablettes, offer free entry after 7 PM, making evening visits a great way to enjoy the coast without cost. Staying slightly outside the most central areas can also reduce accommodation expenses.
couples
Consider visiting during wisteria season in April for an extra touch of romance, as the blooming flowers add a magical ambiance to the town. The less crowded nature of Menton compared to its neighbors makes it ideal for a more intimate and relaxed getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Menton's Colorful Architecture
This architectural style is not just for show; it's deeply rooted in the town's history and climate. The bright colors were traditionally used to help sailors spot the town from afar. Today, they create a cheerful and inviting atmosphere that has captivated visitors for decades. The wisteria season in April adds another layer of beauty, with cascades of purple flowers adorning balconies and archways, creating a truly magical photographic backdrop.
When exploring, take time to look up and appreciate the details: ornate balconies, charming shutters, and the intricate stonework. The contrast between the vibrant buildings and the deep blue of the Mediterranean Sea is a recurring theme that makes Menton so visually appealing. It’s a town that rewards slow exploration and an appreciation for its unique visual identity.
Menton's Lemon Legacy
This citrus heritage is celebrated throughout the town. You'll find lemon-themed souvenirs, local products like lemon marmalade and limoncello, and of course, a variety of dishes that prominently feature the Menton lemon. Confiseries Herbin, a historic sweet shop, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to sample traditional Menton lemon candies and other confections.
Beyond sweets, the local cuisine often incorporates the zesty fruit. Look for dishes like lemon chicken, lemon-infused fish, or refreshing lemon sorbets. Even if you don't visit during the festival, the scent of lemons often perfumes the air, a constant reminder of Menton's unique agricultural treasure.
Beach Life and Lakeside Relaxation
For those seeking a more tranquil experience or traveling with young children, some reviews mention a shallow pebbly area or a toddler pool, though availability can vary. The beach often has amenities like a bar and restaurant, making it convenient for a full day out. It's worth noting that some beaches, like Sablettes, have a small entry fee during the day but become free to access in the evening, offering a budget-friendly option.
Beyond the immediate coastline, the proximity to the Italian border means you're also close to other unique beach experiences. TikTok creators have highlighted hidden beaches near the border that offer a more simple and authentic feel, reminiscent of the Italian Riviera. This makes Menton a great base for exploring diverse coastal landscapes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit