Menton: Day Trips and Tours from Nice

Located close to the Italian border of the French Riviera, Menton is a melting pot of both European cultures that shouldn’t be missed if you’re in the south of France. Featuring the iconic bright hues of the Italian Riviera’s architecture and the rich cuisine of France, Menton is a unique and enchanting town.

Day trips to Menton from Nice enable visitors to discover the “Pearl of France” at their own pace, soak up its beauty and even explore its abundance of lemon groves.

Here's all you need to know about Menton, one of the most exciting day trips from Nice.

How to get to Menton from Nice?

Menton is located along the strip of the French Riviera, close to the country’s border with Italy. It is approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Nice.

From Nice to Menton by car

The journey to Menton by car takes just over 30 minutes and follows the A8, after leaving Nice in a northerly direction.

From Nice to Menton by public transport

Another way to make the jaunt to Menton is by public transport. You can take a direct train from the Nice-Riquier station, which departs several times an hour and takes around 30 minutes.

Guided tour to Menton from Nice

Alternatively, opt for a guided excursion to Menton from Nice. You’ll benefit from round-trip transportation, organized by your guide, and with day trips typically beginning around 8 AM. These usually last between 5 and 8 hours, returning to Nice in the afternoon.

What is the typical itinerary?

All day tours to Menton have their own unique itinerary. However, they usually begin with a convenient hotel pickup from your accommodation in Nice and make the short drive across the border to one of the market towns of the Italian Riviera.

These stops fluctuate depending on which day you book your excursion on, as the markets move from town to town throughout the week. Regardless, you’ll have time to enjoy shopping, sightseeing and eating before moving on to Menton.

This town is well-known across the region for its lemon trees, as well as its luxury shopping outlets. Enjoy free time getting lost between its pastel buildings and dipping your toes in the Mediterranean Sea before continuing on.

From here, you may return to Nice. Alternatively, some Menton day trips travel to other destinations, such as La Turbie or Monaco before traveling back to Nice.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Menton?

There are several Menton day trips available to choose from, depending on which other destinations along the coast you’re itching to see.

Guided tour to Menton plus Turbie from Nice

One way to see the picturesque region is on a group day tour to Menton from Nice. You’ll journey as far as San Remo to visit its famous market, which runs twice a week and sells designer items, fresh produce and everything in between.

From there, you’ll drive the short distance to Menton to explore its sandy beaches and be charmed by the row of colorful buildings that line its shores. Lastly, you’ll stop at La Turbie for unbeatable panoramic views that stretch over Monaco and into Italy.

Private tour to Menton plus Monaco from Nice

On this private Menton day trip, you’ll travel to the bustling market town of either San Remo or Ventimiglia to shop for leather goods, clothing and souvenirs. Spend time trawling the stalls before feasting on a local meal of your choosing.

Continue on to explore the designer boutiques and Andalusian gardens of Menton before being dazzled by the glamor of Monaco. Here, you’ll view the city’s main highlights, such as the Prince’s Palace, before returning to Nice.

How much does a day trip to Menton from Nice cost?

A group day trip to Menton is the most budget-friendly way to see the town. These cost approximately €110 to €120 per person and include a driver-guide.

Private day tours to Menton and Monaco cost around €800 per group of up to 8 participants. Broken down, the cost per head is just under €100.

What will you see and do?

Menton has a far-reaching history with evidence that it was inhabited since the Paleolithic era. However, the current settlement you can see has existed here since the 11th century and has undergone many changes since.

While the best thing to do here is wandering aimlessly through Menton’s quaint streets and along its sweeping beaches, the town is also home to several historic attractions.

These include the 17th-century Saint-Michel-Archange Basilica and the Andalusian-inspired Campanin Garden. You can also visit the Cemetery of the Old Chateau, which features beautifully-sculpted crypts and offers remarkable views out to sea.

There is an abundance of markets that set up stalls throughout the week, including a produce market, craft market and night market.

When is the best time to visit Menton?

The best months to plan a day trip to Menton are June and September when the streets are quieter than in the peak summer season. During these months, you can expect temperatures to hover around 24 degrees Celsius.

Different markets line the streets of Menton throughout the week so plan your tour to coincide with the one you want to see.

What other day trips can you do from Nice?

• Day trips to Eze from Nice
• French Riveria day tours from Nice
• Day tours from Nice to Cannes

Travel tips

• Menton gets especially busy during the European school’s summer break in July and August. Avoid visiting during these times if you wish to gain an authentic view of the town.
• The French Riviera experiences a warm climate throughout most of the year. For this reason, you should embark on your Menton day tour armed with a sunhat, sunscreen and plenty of water.
• Take cash with you on your excursion so that you can easily make purchases at the market stalls of Sanremo or Ventimiglia.