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Menton: Lemon Fest, Jean Cocteau Museum, Botanical Gardens

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✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Menton? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Menton.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to French Riviera/Côte d'Azur here.
Attraction
Park / Garden

Culture and history, explore and discover

Menton, nestled in the French Riviera, offers a rich tapestry of cultural and historical experiences. Visitors can expect to find a blend of Italian and French influences in its architecture and lifestyle, reflecting its unique position near the border. The town is known for its vibrant gardens, charming old town, and a mild climate that has attracted artists and writers over the years.

All sights sorted by distance from center
1. Les Jardins Biovès: Especially during the Lemon Festival, these gardens transform into a spectacular display of citrus-themed sculptures and designs, showcasing the creativity and agricultural heritage of Menton. Distance in km: 0.15
2. Salle des Mariages: Decorated by Jean Cocteau, the Wedding Room in the Town Hall is an exceptional work of art, turning a civil ceremony room into a significant cultural attraction. Distance in km: 0.45
3. The Old Chateau Cemetery: Offering panoramic views of the city and sea, this cemetery is not only a place of rest but also a site of historical and cultural significance, featuring the graves of notable figures. Distance in km: 0.77
4. Basilique Saint-Michel Archange: An architectural masterpiece, this baroque basilica stands out with its bell tower and richly decorated interior, offering a glimpse into the religious heritage of Menton. Distance in km: 0.82
5. Jean Cocteau Museum: Dedicated to the works of Jean Cocteau, this museum showcases a vast collection of his art, providing insight into the multifaceted talent of this French artist, poet, and filmmaker. Distance in km: 0.88
6. Menton Old Town: With its colorful buildings, narrow streets, and vibrant markets, the Old Town is a delightful area to explore, offering a taste of traditional Mediterranean life. Distance in km: 0.97
7. Menton's Gardens: ⭐ ⭐ Menton is renowned for its gardens, such as the Serre de la Madone and the Jardin Botanique Exotique Val Rahmeh, showcasing exotic plants and stunning landscapes. Distance in km: 1.66
8. Jardin Serre de la Madone: This garden is a peaceful haven of rare plants and exquisite landscape design, reflecting the rich botanical heritage of Menton. Distance in km: 1.76
9. Monaco Monte-Carlo: ⭐ ⭐ The glamorous district of Monaco, famous for its casino, luxury shops, and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Distance in km: 6.87
10. Oceanographic Museum of Monaco: ⭐ A museum of marine sciences in Monaco-Ville. It's famous for its extensive collection of marine fauna and its aquariums. Distance in km: 7.56
11. Cathedral of Monaco: ⭐ The resting place of Monaco's princes, this cathedral is known for its Roman-Byzantine style architecture and its historic significance. Distance in km: 7.78
12. Trophy of Augustus: An ancient Roman monument in La Turbie, built to celebrate Emperor Augustus's victory over the Alpine tribes, offering stunning views of Monaco. Distance in km: 8.38
13. Corniche Roads: The three Corniche roads offer some of the most spectacular driving routes along the French Riviera, with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and coastal towns. Distance in km: 11.37
14. Eze Village: ⭐ ⭐ A stunning hilltop medieval village with breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea, known for its beauty and perfume factories. Distance in km: 12.09
15. Villa Kerylos: ⭐ A unique villa in Beaulieu-sur-Mer, built in the style of an ancient Greek palace, with fascinating architecture and sea views. Distance in km: 15.37
16. Paloma Beach: A picturesque and exclusive beach on Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, offering clear waters and a tranquil setting. Distance in km: 15.9
17. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild: ⭐ ⭐ A beautiful villa and garden with stunning views of the Mediterranean, showcasing nine different themed gardens. Distance in km: 16.12
18. Cap Ferrat: One of the most prestigious locations on the French Riviera, known for its luxurious villas, beautiful gardens, and walking paths along the coast. Distance in km: 16.27
19. Matisse Museum: Located in Nice, this museum houses a large collection of works by Henri Matisse, including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Distance in km: 18.86
20. Port of Nice: The picturesque port of Nice is a vibrant area filled with boats, surrounded by colorful buildings, and offers a variety of dining options. Distance in km: 19.22
21. Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MAMAC): Located in Nice, MAMAC displays a significant collection of modern and contemporary art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Distance in km: 19.41
22. La Colline du Château: Overlooking Nice, this hill offers panoramic views of the city and the Bay of Angels, along with a waterfall and remnants of old fortifications. Distance in km: 19.58
23. Marc Chagall National Museum: ⭐ Located in Nice, this museum is dedicated to the works of Marc Chagall, focusing on his religious and spiritual themes. Distance in km: 19.67
24. Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice): ⭐ ⭐ The historic heart of Nice, filled with narrow winding streets, colorful markets, and traditional restaurants. Distance in km: 19.67
25. Place Masséna: The main square in Nice, known for its distinctive checkerboard paving, vibrant atmosphere, and the beautiful Fontaine du Soleil. Distance in km: 20.18
26. Promenade des Anglais: ⭐ ⭐ A world-famous walkway along the Mediterranean, offering stunning sea views and lined with palm trees. Distance in km: 20.49
27. Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Nice: The largest Russian Orthodox cathedral outside Russia, known for its stunning architecture and religious art. Distance in km: 21.11
28. Phoenix Parc Floral de Nice: A botanical garden and zoo in Nice, featuring a large greenhouse with tropical plants and various animal species. Distance in km: 25.3
29. Cagnes-sur-Mer: Home to the Renoir Museum, this seaside town also boasts a medieval village and castle with panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Distance in km: 30.64
30. Gorges du Loup: A beautiful river canyon in the hinterlands of Nice, offering scenic drives, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Distance in km: 32.31
31. Fort Carré: A 16th-century fort in Antibes, offering panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area. Distance in km: 36.18
32. Antibes Old Town: ⭐ The charming old town of Antibes, with its narrow cobblestone streets, bustling market, and the Picasso Museum. Distance in km: 36.65
33. Picasso Museum, Antibes: Housed in the Château Grimaldi, this museum features a substantial collection of Picasso's works, showcasing his time in Antibes. Distance in km: 36.73
34. Garoupe Lighthouse: An iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of the Cap d'Antibes and the surrounding Mediterranean Sea. Distance in km: 37.51
35. Juan-les-Pins: A popular resort town known for its vibrant nightlife, sandy beaches, and the annual Jazz à Juan festival. Distance in km: 38.52
36. Cap d'Antibes: A lush peninsula known for its walking trails, beautiful beaches, and the famous Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. Distance in km: 39.79
37. Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins: This museum in Mougins combines classical, neoclassical, and modern art, including works by Picasso, who spent his last years in the town. Distance in km: 44.81
38. Cannes Croisette: ⭐ ⭐ The famous waterfront avenue in Cannes, known for its prestigious film festival, luxury shops, and sandy beaches. Distance in km: 45.96
39. Lérins Islands: ⭐ ⭐ A group of four Mediterranean islands off the French Riviera, known for their natural beauty, history, and tranquility. Distance in km: 46.09
40. Le Suquet: The old quarter of Cannes, offering narrow, winding streets, a historic atmosphere, and panoramic views over the bay. Distance in km: 46.42
41. Notre-Dame de l'Espérance: A beautiful Gothic church in Cannes, offering serene interiors and stunning views over the city from its hilltop location. Distance in km: 46.48
42. Île Saint-Honorat: One of the Lérins Islands, known for its Cistercian monastery, ancient ruins, and vineyards. Distance in km: 46.94
43. La Croix des Gardes: A natural park in Cannes, offering some of the best views of the city and the bay, especially at sunset. Distance in km: 47.7
44. Musée International de la Parfumerie: Located in Grasse, this museum is dedicated to the history of perfume, showcasing its importance in the region's cultural heritage. Distance in km: 48.08
45. Grasse Perfumeries: ⭐ Grasse is considered the world's capital of perfume. Visitors can tour perfumeries like Fragonard, Molinard, and Galimard. Distance in km: 48.09
46. Villa et Jardins de la Villa Noailles: An early modernist house in Hyères, known for its architectural significance and beautiful gardens. Distance in km: 49.16

Parks, Gardens & Green Areas in the city, relax and enjoy

Menton, located on the French Riviera, is a serene destination known for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can expect a blend of Mediterranean charm and peaceful surroundings, making it an ideal spot for relaxation. The town offers a mix of lush gardens, scenic beaches, and wellness retreats, providing numerous opportunities to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

1. Jardin Serre de la Madone: A historic garden with a diverse collection of exotic plants.

Jardin Serre de la Madone is a beautiful garden created by the famous landscape designer Lawrence Johnston. It features a wide variety of exotic plants from around the world, set in a serene and picturesque landscape. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, admire the unique plant species, and explore the terraced gardens that offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

Type: garden | Fee: 10 euros
2. Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh: A botanical garden with a rich collection of tropical and subtropical plants.

Jardin Botanique Val Rahmeh is a botanical garden managed by the French National Museum of Natural History. It boasts a rich collection of tropical and subtropical plants, including rare and endangered species. The garden is a haven for plant enthusiasts and offers a tranquil environment for visitors to explore the diverse flora, enjoy guided tours, and participate in educational activities.

Type: garden | Fee: 7 euros
3. Les Jardins Biovès: A central park known for its vibrant lemon-themed sculptures during the Lemon Festival.

Les Jardins Biovès is a central park in Menton, famous for hosting the annual Lemon Festival, where it is transformed with large, vibrant sculptures made from citrus fruits. Outside of the festival, the park offers a pleasant environment for leisurely walks, with beautifully manicured gardens, fountains, and benches for relaxation. It is a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy the outdoors.

Type: park | Fee: free
4. Parc du Pian: A tranquil park with olive groves and panoramic views of the sea.

Parc du Pian is a peaceful park located on a hillside, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The park is known for its ancient olive groves, which provide a shaded and serene environment for visitors. It is an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and enjoying the natural beauty of Menton. The park's elevated position also makes it a great place to watch the sunset.

Type: park | Fee: free
5. Jardin du Palais Carnolès: A garden surrounding a historic palace with a large citrus collection.

Jardin du Palais Carnolès is a charming garden that surrounds the historic Palais Carnolès, once the summer residence of the Princes of Monaco. The garden is renowned for its extensive collection of citrus trees, with over 100 varieties. Visitors can wander through the garden paths, enjoy the fragrant blooms, and admire the sculptures and fountains that enhance the garden's beauty. The palace itself occasionally hosts art exhibitions and cultural events.

Type: garden | Fee: free

Tourist Information Offices

Here you can find the main tourist information offices where you can get maps, brochures, and assistance with planning your visit.

1. Menton Tourist Office

Tourist information center

Address: 8 Av. Boyer, 06500 Menton, France

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Menton?

Menton, located in the French Riviera, offers a variety of mobility options for both residents and visitors. The town's compact size makes it easily navigable on foot, allowing you to explore its charming streets and coastal views with ease. Public transportation, including buses, provides connections within the town and to nearby areas, making it convenient to travel without a car. Cycling is also a popular choice, thanks to the town's bike-friendly infrastructure.

In Menton, the pedestrian-friendly zones in the town center make walking a pleasant experience, especially around the Promenade du Soleil and the Old Town. For public transportation, Zestbus operates local bus services that connect various parts of the town and extend to nearby cities like Monaco and Nice. There is no metro system, but the efficient bus network compensates for this. Ride-sharing services like Uber are available, though they might be less frequent than in larger cities. For cycling enthusiasts, bike rentals are available at several locations, offering a convenient way to explore the scenic coastal routes. It's advisable to check local rental shops for availability and rates. Additionally, the town's relatively mild climate makes cycling and walking enjoyable year-round.