Menton is the easternmost town of the Côte d'Azur (French Riviera), tucked against the Italian border between Monaco and Ventimiglia. Sheltered from the Mistral wind, it enjoys one of France's mildest, almost subtropical microclimates, which lets lemons, citrus and exotic plants thrive — earning it the nicknames 'city of lemons' and 'a garden by the sea.' Its Belle Époque and Italianate old town, botanical gardens, and the world-famous Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) are the main draws; the 92nd edition runs 14 February–1 March 2026 on the theme 'Wonders of the Living.' It makes a relaxed base for strolling pastel lanes, touring gardens, and day-tripping across the border into Italy.
The colourful old town cascading down to the sea and the Baroque Basilica of Saint-Michel-Archange, whose forecourt is paved with a pebble mosaic bearing the Grimaldi coat of arms
The Fête du Citron and its monumental citrus sculptures in the Biovès Gardens, plus the Sunday 'Golden Fruit' corso parades
Menton's renowned gardens — Val Rahmeh, Serre de la Madone, Fontana Rosa and more — the heart of its 'garden city' identity
Le Bastion, the little seafront fort that Jean Cocteau redesigned as his own museum
The IGP-protected Menton lemon and its specialities (tarte au citron and more), and the covered Les Halles market running since 1898
Good to know
SafetyWatch for pickpockets in crowded spots such as the Nice–Ventimiglia coastal train and the Friday market in Ventimiglia. Thieves target the door crush when boarding and alighting, so carry your bag in front and keep valuables close.
SafetyThe seafront promenade and rocky stretches toward Cap-Martin can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. In storms, big waves wash over the promenade and breakwaters (the coast flooded in 2018 and 2020), so stay away from the water's edge in bad weather.
SeasonThe February Lemon Festival is peak season: grandstand and garden-display tickets sell out early and lodging fills up months ahead, so book well in advance. February is cool (roughly 10–15°C) with possible rain, so pack layers and a rain jacket.
SeasonSummer (July–August) is hot, crowded and expensive for accommodation. Most beaches are pebbly, so water shoes help, and the midday sun is strong — stay hydrated and use sun protection.
RulesAlthough the France–Italy border is in the Schengen area, temporary border checks have recently been reintroduced, so carry your passport or ID when crossing into Italy (Ventimiglia). Churches such as the Basilica require modest dress covering shoulders and knees.
MannersThe gardens (Serre de la Madone, Val Rahmeh and others) have limited opening days and hours and often require guided or timed-entry visits, so reserve ahead. Greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour' first, and note that many places close over lunch.
CautionBeware of counterfeit goods, pushy vendors and people offering unsolicited 'help' around Ventimiglia's market and station, and always use official car parks.
Practical info
Menton is about 40 minutes from Nice and 15 minutes from Ventimiglia (Italy) on the coastal TER train; the centre is walkable, though parking near the old town is limited. Most gardens and Le Bastion are best booked in advance, and the main Jean Cocteau collection (Séverin Wunderman) museum remains closed for restoration after 2018 storm-surge flooding (no confirmed reopening date), so check before visiting. Confirm fares, opening hours, closing days and any border checks on the official websites for the latest details.
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