A Bit of History: From Border Town to Riviera Gem
Once under Genoese and then Monegasque influence, Menton has a rich and eventful history before becoming part of France in 1861. This town, located on the border with Italy, quickly captivated European aristocrats in the 19th century—especially the British—who built sumptuous villas surrounded by exotic gardens. Thanks to its unique and particularly mild microclimate, Menton became a popular destination for winter retreats. Today, it enchants visitors with its elegant and soothing atmosphere, its rich architectural heritage, and its iconic Lemon Festival—a world-renowned event featuring massive sculptures made from lemons and oranges, attracting thousands of visitors every year.
A famous anecdote earned Menton the nickname “Pearl of France,” in reference to its ideal location between the sea and the mountains and its exceptional sunshine, which exceeds 300 days per year.
Menton’s Gastronomy: A Sun-Kissed Cuisine Between France and Italy
Menton’s gastronomy perfectly reflects its identity at the crossroads of French and Italian cultures. The city offers a generous and colorful cuisine, full of tradition and freshness. Among its local specialties is the pichade, a rustic tart made from bread dough topped with tomato sauce, onions, anchovies, and aromatic herbs. Another must-try is the fougasse mentonnaise, a sweet version of flatbread often filled with dried fruits or candied citrus, highlighting the importance of local products in regional cooking. But the true culinary star of the city remains the Menton lemon, renowned worldwide for its intense aroma and remarkable flavor. It is used in a wide variety of sweet and savory recipes, as well as in processed products such as jams, liqueurs, and flavored oils.
Menton’s Best Culinary Addresses
To discover the flavors of Menton, several establishments stand out for their excellence. The most famous is undoubtedly Mirazur, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant led by Chef Mauro Colagreco. Located on the hills overlooking the town, it offers an inventive cuisine inspired by the surrounding nature and products from its own garden. A short walk from the historic center, Maison Herbin is a local institution for those with a sweet tooth, known for its artisan jams made with Menton lemons. In a more traditional style, A Braijade Meridiounale invites diners to enjoy typical dishes in a warm, authentic atmosphere. Finally, by the sea, Le Petit Port offers a friendly setting and delicious seafood-based cuisine—perfect for enjoying a dinner with a view of the old port.
Must-See Attractions in Menton
Menton offers a wide range of attractions where history, nature, and culture intertwine. The historic heart of the city, with its narrow alleyways, colorful facades, and stone staircases, immerses visitors in a typical Mediterranean ambiance. From the heights of the old town, the view over the Mediterranean Sea is simply breathtaking. Not far away, the Basilica of Saint-Michel Archange, a true gem of Baroque art, towers over the city and regularly hosts concerts and festivals.
Menton’s botanical richness is also on display in its many gardens. Serre de la Madone, Val Rahmeh, and the Carnolès Palace Garden offer peaceful walks among rare and exotic plant species from all over the world.
The city’s cultural side is equally vibrant, notably with the Jean Cocteau Museum, dedicated to the artist who fell in love with Menton. Located by the sea in a contemporary building, it houses an outstanding collection of his graphic and poetic works.
Finally, to soak up the local lifestyle, nothing beats a visit to the covered market at Les Halles. Here, you’ll find a warm atmosphere, stalls brimming with regional products, and, of course, the famous Menton lemons proudly displayed by local producers.
Menton, an Unforgettable Destination
A refined and peaceful border town, Menton is much more than just a seaside resort. Its fascinating history, delicious cuisine, exceptional climate, and serene atmosphere make it a unique destination on the French Riviera. It appeals to travelers seeking authenticity, culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and gourmet food fans alike. Whether you’re coming for a romantic weekend, a cultural getaway, or planning to settle long-term, Menton offers a truly rich and unforgettable experience.
So, why not make Menton your next escape between sea and mountains?
Your Future Home in Menton: 2 Exceptional Properties
Whether you’re looking for a pied-à-terre with sea views or a villa nestled in greenery, Menton offers a selection of exceptional properties for every lifestyle. Here are four listings that perfectly illustrate the charm and diversity of the local real estate market:
Each of these properties offers top-tier amenities in highly sought-after areas, combining peaceful residential living with proximity to all conveniences.
Why Choose Menton to Live or Invest?
Menton appeals not only to visitors but also to those looking to settle down or invest. Its peaceful lifestyle, exceptional sunshine, immediate proximity to Monaco, Italy, and Nice, along with its rich cultural heritage, make it an ideal place to call home. Less crowded than the larger neighboring cities, Menton enjoys a dynamic real estate market with high-quality properties whose value continues to rise. It’s a perfect location for a rental investment, a second home, or a primary residence—offering a rare balance between accessibility, natural beauty, and quality of life.
