Menton Old Town - Old Town of Menton Côte d'Azur France (June 2024)
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Menton Old Town

4.6
·491k reviews·Menton, France

A fairytale town on the French Riviera, Menton Old Town enchants with its pastel buildings, lemon heritage, and stunning Mediterranean views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Menton Old Town - Old Town of Menton Côte d'Azur France (June 2024)

Menton Old Town

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A fairytale town on the French Riviera, Menton Old Town enchants with its pastel buildings, lemon heritage, and stunning Mediterranean views.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Menton is a little pearl of paradise, a Wes Anderson style day out on the French Riviera."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and stairs are everywhere in the old town. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Get lost in the alleys :map:

The charm of Menton's old town is in its hidden corners. Don't be afraid to wander off the main paths.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange

Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange

Old Town

Stunning baroque architecture with breathtaking views over the colorful town and Mediterranean Sea.

Vieux Menton (Old Town)

Vieux Menton (Old Town)

Central Menton

Wander through a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets lined with vibrant, pastel-colored buildings.

Les Rampes Saint-Michel

Les Rampes Saint-Michel

Path to Basilica

Iconic yellow stairs offering perfect photo opportunities and a scenic ascent to the basilica.

Jardins Biovès

Jardins Biovès

Near the seafront

Beautiful gardens, especially vibrant during the annual Lemon Festival, showcasing citrus artistry.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Pastel Charm

Menton's Old Town is a visual feast with its pastel-colored buildings. Prepare for charmingly narrow streets and some uphill climbs to reach key viewpoints. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the winding alleys and staircases.

Lemon Capital of the Riviera

Menton is famous for its lemons! Look out for lemon-themed souvenirs, enjoy local lemon specialties, and if you're visiting in February, don't miss the vibrant Lemon Festival.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium
When
February (Lemon Festival)
Why
Unique citrus celebration
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Looking for a serene escape from reality?🌊💌🌷🤞🏼 i got you! Visit the adorable and quaint town of Menton along the French Riviera!🌞 Menton is the perfect place for a reset and relax day. The slow moving town and colorful buildings are truly a fairytale come true!🌷 #southoffrance #frenchriviera #cotedazur #southoffrancesummer #summervibes #travelguide #beachlife #eurosummer #imterrail #backpacking #...
@emwanderstheworld
140.2K likes • 1.4M views

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and stairs are everywhere in the old town. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Get lost in the alleys :map:

The charm of Menton's old town is in its hidden corners. Don't be afraid to wander off the main paths.

A very Wes Anderson style day out in Menton 🍋 situated on the French Rivieria in the south of France, Menton in a little pearl of paradise ☀️ #menton #mentone #mentonfrance #frenchriviera #suddelafrance #southoffrance #francetourisme #visitfrance🇫🇷 #france🇫🇷 #travelblogger #uktravelblogger
@thechaosdiaries
130.6K likes • 787.3K views
How to spend one day in Menton, South of France 🇫🇷 Menton is a small town on the French Riviera with the most beautiful old town and beaches. It is on the cusp of Italy so the food has both a French and Italian influence. You will not be disappointed!! The locals were warm and welcoming and we found such beautiful souvenirs. You can easily reach Menton as a day trip from Nice. I wouldn’t miss ou...
theinspiredbelly
50 likes • 3.3K views

Lemon treats are a must :lemon:

Try the local lemon specialties, from lemonade to pastries. They're famous for a reason!

Capture the pastel hues :camera_with_flash:

The colorful buildings are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for magical shots.

✨ If you’re visiting the French Riviera, Menton is a MUST ! Here are the essentials to experience this charming town : ⬇️ Must-See spots : • Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange : Stunning views & baroque architecture ⛪ • Old Town (Vieux Menton) : Wander through colorful streets 🍋 • Jardins Biovès : Gorgeous gardens, especially during the Lemon Festival 🌸 • Promenade du Soleil : Relax by the sea 🌊...
cotedazurspots
14.2K likes • 180.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfy shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Cobblestone streets and stairs are everywhere in the old town. You'll be doing a lot of walking!

Get lost in the alleys :map:

The charm of Menton's old town is in its hidden corners. Don't be afraid to wander off the main paths.

Lemon treats are a must :lemon:

Try the local lemon specialties, from lemonade to pastries. They're famous for a reason!

Capture the pastel hues :camera_with_flash:

The colorful buildings are incredibly photogenic. Visit during golden hour for magical shots.

Easy day trip from Nice :train:

Menton is only about 35 minutes from Nice by train, making it a perfect day trip destination.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Menton Old Town's picturesque pastel buildings and charming, winding streets, often comparing it to a fairytale. The town's unique lemon heritage and its beautiful setting on the French Riviera are frequently highlighted as major draws. Some find the climbs a bit strenuous, but the stunning views and authentic atmosphere are consistently praised.

What People Like

Charming pastel streets
Fairytale atmosphere
Lemon heritage

What People Dislike

Steep climbs
Crowded during festivals

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach Menton Old Town from Nice is by train. The TER train line runs frequently and the journey takes approximately 35-45 minutes. You can catch the train from Nice-Ville station. Once you arrive at Menton station, the old town is a short walk away. Instagram

While you can drive to Menton, parking in the old town itself can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited spaces. It's often recommended to park in designated car parks outside the immediate old town area and walk in. Reddit

The best way to explore Menton Old Town is on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be navigating cobblestone streets, narrow alleys, and staircases. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! Menton Old Town is a very popular and easily accessible day trip destination, especially from Nice and other nearby French Riviera towns. Instagram

Yes, Menton is situated right on the French-Italian border, making it a unique destination with influences from both cultures. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees to explore the streets and public areas of Menton Old Town. You can wander freely through its charming alleys and squares. TikTok

Menton Old Town is always open as it's a public area. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions within the old town will have their own operating hours. It's best to check specific venues if you have particular places in mind.

While the old town itself is free to explore, attractions like the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange are generally free to enter, though donations are appreciated. Some museums or gardens might have admission fees. Instagram

Yes, there is a tourist information office located near the old town that can provide maps, brochures, and assistance with your visit.

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) or on weekdays. Early mornings are also generally quieter than midday. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spots include the colorful streets of Vieux Menton, the yellow staircase 'Les Rampes Saint-Michel', and panoramic views from the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange. TikTokInstagram

The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the pastel colors of the buildings. Midday can be harsh, but still offers vibrant scenes. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in France, especially in populated areas. It's advisable to check local drone laws and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone over Menton Old Town.

Menton Old Town is renowned for its unique pastel-colored facades, narrow winding streets, and its picturesque setting overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

While not as common as in larger cities, you might find local guides offering photography walks. It's worth checking with the local tourist office for recommendations.

🍽️ 🍋 Food & Drink

Menton is famous for its lemons! Don't miss trying local lemon-infused dishes, pastries, and especially fresh lemonade. You'll also find a blend of French and Italian influences in the cuisine. Instagram+1

The old town has many charming restaurants and cafes tucked away in its alleys. Look for places offering local Provençal and Niçoise dishes, often with a Mediterranean flair.

Yes, Menton hosts an annual Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) in February, which is a major event celebrating the town's prized lemons with elaborate floats and citrus-themed displays. Instagram+1

You can find more affordable options by looking for bakeries (boulangeries) for sandwiches and pastries, or casual cafes offering daily specials. Socca (a chickpea pancake) is also a delicious and budget-friendly snack. Instagram

Besides local wines and aperitifs, be sure to try the refreshing Menton lemonade and other lemon-based beverages. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Menton Old Town offers a fairytale-like experience for families. The colorful buildings and winding streets are like a storybook come to life. TikTok Encourage kids to explore and discover hidden alleys, and make sure to try some of the delicious lemon-themed treats – the lemonade is usually a big hit! Instagram The climb up to the Basilica can be a fun adventure, and the views from the top are rewarding for everyone. Pack comfortable shoes for little feet, as the cobblestones can be uneven.

📸 Photographers

Menton Old Town is a dream destination for photographers. The pastel-colored facades and narrow, winding streets provide endless opportunities for capturing unique shots. TikTokInstagram Don't miss the iconic yellow stairs (Les Rampes Saint-Michel) leading to the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange for dramatic perspectives and vibrant colors. Instagram Visit during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) for the most flattering light that enhances the town's charm. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Menton Old Town is a safe and charming destination for solo travelers looking for a relaxed Riviera experience. The compact nature of the old town makes it easy to navigate and explore at your own pace. TikTok Embrace getting lost in the alleys to discover local life and picturesque corners. Enjoy a leisurely coffee or a lemon-infused treat at a local cafe and soak in the atmosphere. The train access from Nice also makes it a convenient and stress-free solo day trip.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Allure of Menton's Old Town

Menton's Vieux Menton is a captivating maze of narrow, winding streets that cascade down towards the sea. The defining characteristic is its pastel-colored facades, a visual symphony that earned Menton the nickname 'Pearl of France'. Unlike some more manicured Riviera towns, Menton's old town retains an authentic, lived-in feel, with laundry hanging from balconies and local life unfolding in the squares. TikTokInstagram

Exploring this area involves a bit of a climb, particularly if you're heading towards the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange. The iconic Les Rampes Saint-Michel, a series of vibrant yellow stairs, leads you upwards, offering increasingly stunning vistas. This ascent is not just a path but an experience, with hidden courtyards and charming nooks to discover along the way. Instagram

The town's proximity to Italy is palpable, influencing its architecture, cuisine, and overall atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly get lost and stumble upon delightful surprises at every turn, making it a photographer's and wanderer's paradise. Instagram+1

Menton's Famous Lemons

Menton's identity is intrinsically linked to its prized lemons, known for their intense aroma and rich flavor. This unique citrus variety thrives in Menton's microclimate, leading to the town's annual Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival), a spectacular event held in February. During the festival, the town is adorned with elaborate sculptures and floats made entirely of lemons and other citrus fruits, drawing thousands of visitors. Instagram+1

Beyond the festival, the influence of lemons is evident throughout Menton. You'll find lemon-themed souvenirs, local products like lemon-infused olive oil, and of course, delicious culinary creations. Trying a glass of fresh Menton lemonade or a lemon tart is a quintessential experience for any visitor. Instagram

The Jardins Biovès are particularly significant in relation to the lemons, often serving as a venue for the festival's displays. These gardens, along with others like the Serre de la Madone, showcase the region's horticultural richness, with citrus trees being a prominent feature. Instagram

Getting Around and Best Views

Menton Old Town is best explored on foot, and comfortable footwear is essential due to the cobblestone streets and numerous staircases. The town's layout encourages leisurely wandering, allowing you to discover its hidden charms. TikTok

For the most rewarding views, make your way up to the Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange. The climb via Les Rampes Saint-Michel (the yellow stairs) is well worth the effort, offering panoramic vistas of the colorful old town tumbling down to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Instagram+1

Consider visiting during the late afternoon for the golden hour, when the pastel buildings are bathed in a warm, soft light, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for photography. Instagram

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