Menton

 Located just east of Monaco, this charming and glitzy town is known for its beautiful gardens and beaches, and exquisite views of the Mediterranean coastline. 

Stroll through the narrow streets of Menton’s Old Town, filled with charming pastel buildings and authentically French cafés and snap some pictures on Les Rampes Saint-Michel, a lemon-coloured stairway leading up to Menton’s Basilica. Walk along the stairway to Plage des Sablettes, a beautiful sandy beach just a short walk from the town centre. 

With a picturesque background of the colourful town behind you, a swim here is idyllic - especially at sunset when the beach is calmer and the water turns a magical shade in the reflection of the sun. 

Another must-do is the Gardens of Menton, six exceptional gardens dating back to the 18th century that are filled with exotic plants and flowers. 

For the best viewpoints of Menton: Point de vue du Port (view over the uneven tiled rooftops contrasted against the azure blue sea) and Vue Panoramique de Menton (the spot for the iconic waterfront views and climb the breakwater for a direct views - as the sun sets behind the town so the best time for this spot is in the morning, or at sunset/early evening to capture the evening lights).