Menton

Menton is such a charming little town on the French Riviera, known for its stunning gardens, beautiful beaches, and delightful cuisine. Here’s a fun and relaxed 2-day itinerary that will let you soak in the best of what Menton has to offer!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Menton

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a buttery croissant or a pain au chocolat paired with a café au lait. The Café des Arts is a lovely spot with a great atmosphere.
• Visit the Jean Cocteau Museum: After breakfast, head to the Jean Cocteau Museum. This modern museum showcases the works of the famous artist and filmmaker, and the building itself is a piece of art! Don’t forget to check out the stunning views of the sea from the museum.

Midday:

• Stroll through the Old Town: Take a leisurely walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town (Vieux Menton). Admire the colorful buildings, charming shops, and the beautiful Saint-Michel Basilica. The architecture is simply delightful!
• Lunch at a Local Bistro: For lunch, grab a bite at a local bistro. Try some local specialties like “Socca” (a chickpea pancake) or “Pissaladière” (a savory tart topped with onions, olives, and anchovies).

Afternoon:

• Visit the Gardens of Menton: Spend your afternoon exploring the stunning gardens. The Val Rahmeh Botanical Garden and the Serre de la Madone are both beautiful spots to wander around. The exotic plants and flowers are a feast for the eyes!
• Relax at the Beach: After all that walking, head to the beach! The Plage des Sablettes is a great spot to relax, swim, or just soak up the sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Evening:

• Dinner with a View: For dinner, consider dining at a restaurant with a view of the Mediterranean. Le Mirazur is a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a fantastic dining experience, but be sure to make a reservation in advance!
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. The sunset over the sea is simply magical, and it’s a perfect way to end your first day in Menton.

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Day 2: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Start your day with a visit to a local bakery. Grab a fresh baguette or a sweet pastry and enjoy it at a nearby park or on the beach.
• Visit the Basilica of Saint-Michel: After breakfast, visit the Basilica of Saint-Michel. The baroque architecture is stunning, and the views from the top are worth the climb!

Midday:

• Explore the Local Market: Head to the Marché Couvert (covered market) to experience the local flavors. You can find fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies. It’s a great place to pick up some snacks for later!
• Lunch at the Market: Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the market stalls or nearby cafés. Try some fresh seafood or a refreshing salad.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Lemon Festival (if in season): If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss the famous Menton Lemon Festival! It’s a vibrant celebration with parades and incredible citrus sculptures. If not, consider visiting the Cemetery of the Old Castle for its beautiful views and serene atmosphere.
• Relax at the Beach or a Spa: Spend your afternoon either lounging on the beach or treating yourself to a spa session. The Hôtel Napoleon has a lovely spa if you’re in the mood for some pampering.

Evening:

• Dinner in the Old Town: For your last dinner in Menton, head back to the Old Town and find a cozy restaurant. Enjoy some local seafood dishes or a classic ratatouille.
• Gelato for Dessert: No trip to Menton is complete without gelato! Stop by one of the local gelaterias for a sweet treat to end your day.

And there you have it! A delightful 2-day itinerary in Menton that balances culture, relaxation, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌞🍋🏖️