A Hidden Orange Sea Town on the French-Italian Border｜Menton Heals You So Much You Don’t Want to Leave

Just a 20-minute train ride from Nice, this small town on the French-Italian border directly touched my heart! No Cannes hustle, no Monaco luxury, just orange trees, blue sea, and romance slow to the bone～ As soon as I got off the train, I was surprised by the city full of orange trees! Along the streets and in the corners of the squares, orange trees laden with golden fruit fill the air with a sweet fragrance. Every photo feels like a French film with a built-in filter📸 Walking up the cobblestone streets of the old town, colorful little houses are built on the hillside, with bougainvillea climbing over the doors and windows. Occasionally, you meet an old man sitting at the door soaking up the sun, smiling and saying “Bonjour” in French, instantly healing. The must-visit Place Saint-Michel offers an incredible view! Standing on the viewing platform, you can overlook the entire Menton Bay. The blue-green sea looks like spilled jewels, and the Italian coastline is faintly visible in the distance. The sunlight around three or four in the afternoon is just right, with a gentle sea breeze, making even daydreaming romantic. Nearby, the understated yet exquisite Saint-Michel Church lets colorful stained glass light spots in, paired with quiet prayers, making you naturally slow your pace. Menton’s beach is a unique pebble beach; it’s a bit hard on bare feet, but sitting and sunbathing is super comfortable～ Buy a local orange ice cream, eat it while watching the waves crash against the rocks, and see yachts lazily sailing in the distance. This is what a vacation should feel like! At dusk, be sure to visit a restaurant near the pier, order a fresh seafood platter and white wine, and watch the sunset dye the sea orange, instantly elevating the atmosphere🌅 Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Picasso Museum, hidden in a villa in the old town. It houses works Picasso created in his later years in Menton. The orange trees and sculptures in the courtyard complement each other beautifully, making for great photos. Don’t forget to stroll through the market! Fresh figs, olive oil, handmade soaps, and locally made orange jam are perfect souvenirs to bring home. Tips: Menton is very small, and you can walk to all the main attractions; there’s a direct train from Nice with cheap tickets, and it’s recommended to stay 1-2 days to fully enjoy it; the December Orange Festival is super lively, with the whole town decorated with oranges, but unfortunately, I missed it this time～ This small town surrounded by oranges and the blue sea has no crowded influencer spots, only pure beauty. It’s perfect for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a slow life. Once you come, you won’t want to leave!