Menton (Mentone in Italian) is the first town in France after the border: an old town of ochre façades stepping down towards the sea, exotic gardens and one of the mildest climates on the French Riviera. It is very close to Bordighera: half an hour by car or a few minutes by train from Ventimiglia.
History
In 1346 Menton was bought by the Grimaldis of Monaco and remained under the Monegasque princes for five centuries. In 1848, after the prince imposed a tax on lemons, the town declared itself free together with Roquebrune. Following the agreements between France and the Kingdom of Sardinia and the plebiscite of 1860, it became French in 1861.
What to see
The old town
Narrow alleys, flights of steps and shady little squares among tall, warm-coloured houses: the old town is best explored on foot, climbing up from the seafront.
The basilica of Saint-Michel
Built in Baroque style in the second half of the 17th century, it towers over the old town and the harbour.
Jean Cocteau in Menton
The Jean Cocteau Museum opened in 1966 in the Bastion of 1636, by the harbour; since 2011 a nearby building has housed the Séverin Wunderman collection. Cocteau also decorated the Salle des Mariages (wedding hall) of the town hall, frescoed between 1957 and 1958.
The gardens
Menton is a town of gardens: the Val Rahmeh botanical garden, the Serre de la Madone, Fontana Rosa and Maria Serena are among the best known.
The covered market
The Marché des Halles, near the old town, is the place to go for local produce.
The Fête du Citron
In February the lemon festival fills the town with floats and sculptures made of citrus fruit, with the big displays in the Biovès gardens. The 2027 edition is scheduled from 13 to 28 February. The Menton lemon has Protected Geographical Indication status.
Tips for your visit
- How long you need: half a day; a full day with museums and gardens.
- Getting there: by train from Bordighera, changing at Ventimiglia, to Menton station, or by car (about 15 km, half an hour).
- Documents: Menton is in France: bring a valid identity document with you.
- Combine it with: along the way are the Balzi Rossi and the Hanbury Gardens; carrying on along the coast you reach the Principality of Monaco.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Menton from Bordighera?
About 15 km: half an hour by car, or by train changing at Ventimiglia.
When is the Fête du Citron?
In February; in 2027 from 13 to 28 February.
What can you see in Menton in a day?
The old town with the basilica of Saint-Michel, the seafront, the Jean Cocteau Museum and one of the gardens, such as Val Rahmeh.
