Menton, often called the pearl of the French Riviera, isn’t just about pretty streets and lemon festivals. Its unique blend of French and Italian influences makes it a prime destination for engaging and authentic tours. Whether you’re craving a foodie adventure or a chance to capture stunning photos, Menton offers experiences that go beyond typical sightseeing. Among the many options, we particularly love the Exclusive Food Tour for its delicious sampling and intimate atmosphere, and the Photo Shoot with a Local Photographer for unforgettable keepsakes of your trip.
What makes Menton special for tours? Its compact historic center, vibrant markets, and beautiful coastal views mean you can enjoy immersive experiences without long distances or heavy walking. Plus, the local cuisine, influenced by Provence and Italy, shines in small-group settings and guided walks. We’ve rounded up the best options to help you choose what’s right for your interests and schedule.
Quick Overview
Our list includes culinary tours like the Exclusive Food Tour in Menton, which offers a tasty journey through local specialties, as well as photo sessions such as the Menton Photo Shoot with a Local Photographer, perfect for capturing memories with a professional. For those who love to explore by bike, there’s an E-Bike Tour from Ventimiglia, combining scenery, culture, and active fun. If you prefer a relaxed walk, the Walking Tour in the Old Town showcases historic streets and panoramic views. For a luxurious experience, there’s a Boat Rental with Skipper, sailing along the coast for private relaxation. Each offers a different way to enjoy Menton’s charm.
1. Exclusive Food Tour in Menton – 3 hours – small groups
This 3-hour culinary adventure is perfect for anyone eager to savor Menton’s diverse flavors. The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring plenty of time to chat with your guide and explore local hotspots. Starting at the Carrousel de Menton, you’ll enjoy a glass of Provence-infused wine, crafted from regional citrus, setting the tone for the tour. Then, the group strolls down Rue Pelisson to taste Socca, a chickpea pancake served warm with pepper—simple but addictive.
Next, you’ll explore the Marché des Halles, where local producers sell fresh produce and artisanal products. A stop at Giuseppe’s shop features tapenade, capturing the essence of Menton’s culinary identity. The final stop gathers you around a shaded market hall table, indulging in a selection of local delicacies, from cheeses to lemon tarts, with a refreshing Limoncello to cap things off. The guide, Patricia, is praised for her knowledge and friendly manner, making the experience both educational and fun.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for food lovers wanting an intimate, hands-on experience with authentic Menton flavors, at a very reasonable price of around $58 per person. It offers a great mix of tasting, culture, and local stories—highly recommended.
2. Exclusive Food Tour in Menton – 3 hours – small group
This slightly more upscale option focuses on gourmet food and wine, making it perfect for travelers seeking a more refined culinary experience. Starting at 11:00, you’ll visit Menton’s vibrant food market, tasting local cheeses, regional snacks, and regional wines. The tour includes eight guests maximum, ensuring an intimate, personalized experience. Over three hours, you’ll sample Menton regional specialties, enjoy wine tastings, and learn about Provençal and Italian culinary influences.
The route is a short pedestrian stroll, less than 1 km, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility. All food and drinks are included, which means no surprise costs. The guide, knowledgeable about local gastronomy, provides insights into the history and traditions behind each flavor. This tour is excellent for culinary connoisseurs or anyone wanting a comprehensive tasting tour that combines markets, cheeses, wines, and sweets.
Value for money is high, at about $119 per person, especially considering the extensive tastings. It’s a fantastic choice for a relaxed, immersive food day in Menton.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an in-depth, gourmet experience with a focus on quality, this tour delivers in both taste and storytelling.
3. Menton Photo shoot with a Local Award Winning Photographer
Few experiences come close to capturing your trip in a professional photo shoot—and in Menton, it’s extraordinary. This one-hour session with an award-winning local photographer promises high-quality images set against the town’s most colorful backdrops. You’ll visit iconic spots like the lemon festival areas, lively streets, and scenic viewpoints, all while posing naturally for stunning photos.
The photographer, Laurie, is praised for her professionalism and eye for detail. The sessions are tailored to your preferences, whether for couples, families, or solo travelers. After the shoot, you’ll receive a set of beautifully edited high-resolution photos, perfect for sharing or printing. This experience is ideal if you want a lasting souvenir or want to celebrate a special occasion with a unique photo session.
At $200 for about an hour, it’s a bit of an indulgence but well worth it for memorable images of your trip. Reviews mention that the photos are “so beautiful,” making this a worthwhile splurge for photo enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: If capturing your visit in style matters, this is a top pick—especially for romantic getaways or special celebrations.
4. Walking Tour in the Old Town of Menton France
This 3.5-hour walking tour offers a deeper dive into Menton’s historic and architectural highlights. Starting from the lively markets at the Town Hall, your guide takes you through the colorful streets and past the Belle Epoque palaces, revealing stories behind the buildings and the city’s evolution.
Highlights include the medieval Old Town, with its narrow alleys and Baroque church of Saint-Michel, plus panoramic views from hilltop cemeteries. The tour emphasizes the fantasy and exoticism of Menton’s architecture and urban layout, making it a visual feast. Visitors appreciate the guide’s ability to share local anecdotes and point out lesser-known sights, making the stroll both educational and entertaining.
While it’s a free entry tour, you should budget for possible entrance fees if you choose to visit specific sites like the botanical park. The reviews note the knowledgeable guide and the wonderful views, making it especially appealing for history and architecture lovers.
Bottom Line: This tour makes a great choice if you want a leisurely, informative look at Menton’s hidden corners and spectacular vistas.
5. Menton: Guided Walking Tour
For a quick but comprehensive overview, this 2-hour guided walk packs in the highlights of Menton. Led by a passionate guide, you’ll explore the charming streets, learn fascinating stories about the town, and take plenty of photos. Although only one review is available, it’s glowing, praising the guide’s storytelling and the picturesque scenery.
This tour is perfect if you’re short on time but want to get a feel for Menton’s personality. It covers major sights like the Old Town and the coastline, providing a solid foundation for further exploration. The price is $707 per group (up to 10 people), making it an economical way to experience the town with friends or family.
Ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a guided introduction, it’s a flexible option that gives you a taste of Menton’s charm in just two hours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those short on time but eager for a guided intro with local insights.
$707 per group up to 10
6. E-Bike Tour from Ventimiglia: Dolceacqua & Rocchetta Rivers
Crossing into Italy, this 8-hour e-bike tour combines scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and active exploration. Starting in Ventimiglia, you’ll enjoy a guided ride through the Nervia Valley, passing by medieval castles and artful villages like Dolceacqua. The route includes seaside bike paths and riverside trails, offering a mix of coastal and mountain vistas.
The tour includes stops at local markets and tastings of wine, olive oil, and honey, making it a true culinary and culture. The highlight is the visit to the Doria Castle and exploring craft shops in Dolceacqua. The ride is suitable for moderate fitness levels, with the electric bikes easing uphill challenges.
Guests praise the beautiful scenery and the chance to experience Italy’s charm without the hassle of planning. The full-day itinerary, with lunch and pastries included, offers excellent value for a full-day adventure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want to combine culture, countryside, and cuisine in one day.
$151 per person
7. Menton: Boat rental with skipper
For a luxurious and private experience, renting a boat with a skipper lets you explore Menton’s coast at your own pace. This flexible day trip allows you to sail away from the crowds, discover hidden coves, and enjoy breathtaking sea views. The boat accommodates up to five people, making it ideal for families or small groups.
The tour includes snorkeling, leisurely stops at scenic spots, and personalized itineraries arranged with the skipper. The starting points are flexible, with options like La Pergola, and the duration can extend from 2 to 8 hours, depending on your preference. The experience is praised for the professionalism of the skipper and the comfort of the private boat.
While more costly at around $527 for a group, it’s a memorable way to see Menton from a different perspective. Reviews highlight the fantastic views and the peaceful escape from busy tourist spots.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking luxury, privacy, and the chance to customize their coastal experience.
$527 per group up to 5
How to Choose the Right Tour in Menton
When selecting your ideal experience, consider your budget, preferred pace, and interests. If you’re a food lover, the Exclusive Food Tour offers a comprehensive tasting journey. For photographers or romantics, the Photo Shoot provides lasting memories. Active travelers might enjoy the E-Bike Tour, combining scenery and culture, while those seeking relaxation or a personalized experience should consider the Boat Rental.
Timing is also important. The culinary tours work well during the day when markets and cafes are lively, while sunset or early morning sessions are best for photo shoots and scenic walks. Book early, especially in high season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Menton offers a rich variety of tours tailored to different interests and energy levels. Foodies will love the small-group culinary tours, while couples and families seeking memorable keepsakes should consider the professional photo sessions. Active travelers can explore the coast and countryside via e-bike or boat, discovering hidden corners and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
No matter which tour you pick, Menton’s charm is sure to shine through. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these fantastic experiences. Whether you’re after a taste of local cuisine, stunning photos, or a relaxing sail, Menton’s tours promise unforgettable moments on your trip.