Tucked between the Alps and the Mediterranean, Menton is the last stop in France before you reach Italy. It’s a town full of charm, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, lush hillsides, and colorful old buildings. The mild weather makes it one of the best places to visit in Europe, and it’s often a few degrees warmer than the rest of the French Riviera. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax or a place full of history and culture, Menton is a perfect spot to drop anchor on your yacht charter.

One of the things that makes Menton so unique is its deep connection to citrus. Thanks to the warm weather year-round, lemon and orange trees grow everywhere here. You can actually smell them in the air during the winter. Legend has it that Eve, after leaving Eden, planted the very first lemon tree here—giving Menton a mythical link to paradise. Each February, the town celebrates this citrus heritage with the Fête du Citron, a bright and playful festival filled with huge sculptures, parades, and displays made entirely from lemons and oranges. Stalls sell everything from lemon soaps to homemade limoncello, and the whole town buzzes with a festive energy that’s both playful and proud.

For those who enjoy exploring on land, Menton’s steep old town is one of the prettiest along the Riviera. Narrow alleyways climb past colorful houses, tiny cafes, and open squares to reach landmarks like the Basilique Saint-Michel with its 18th-century bell tower. It’s a place where time feels like it’s slowed down. Nearby, the Jean Cocteau Museum showcases the artist’s eclectic works in a modern space right by the sea. And just a short walk away, the Val Rahmeh Exotic Garden offers a peaceful retreat filled with rare plants from across the globe—giant bamboo, tropical flowers, and towering palms that thrive in Menton’s warm, protected climate.

Food lovers won’t be disappointed either. With Italy just minutes away, Menton’s culinary scene blends French flair with Italian heart. The world-renowned Mirazur restaurant, perched above the town with sea views, has earned multiple Michelin stars and a spot on the World’s 50 Best list. But even simpler bistros serve up excellent Provençal and Ligurian-inspired dishes. While nightlife here is low-key, there are a few stylish cocktail bars and live music spots that keep things lively after sunset.

For those cruising along the Côte d'Azur, Menton is a must-see. It’s easy to hop between anchorages, dine with sea views, and spend a day simply strolling among lemon trees and old villas. If you’re looking to explore the French Riviera at a slower, more meaningful pace, this town delivers in spades. View our South of France yacht charters to start planning your Menton escape.