The weekend of Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026 is a perfect opportunity to discover Menton, the famous lemon city on the French Riviera, with a rich calendar of events dedicated to culture, historical heritage, gastronomy and activities for all ages.

During these two days, visitors can take part in guided tours of the city’s iconic landmarks, discover historic gardens, enjoy experiences linked to the famous Menton IGP lemon, stroll through markets and summer events, or spend an evening enjoying entertainment, tastings and attractions along the seafront.

Main events in Menton during the weekend of July 11-12, 2026

Night guided tours of the Villa Maria Serena garden

Date: Saturday July 11, 2026
Time: Evening hours (time varies depending on booking availability)
Location: Villa Maria Serena, Menton
Category: Culture

During the summer season, the garden of Villa Maria Serena opens its doors for fascinating night guided tours.

The experience allows visitors to discover one of Menton’s most elegant gardens in a unique atmosphere, surrounded by exotic plants, historic architecture and Mediterranean views. A perfect event for those who wish to explore the city’s botanical heritage in an original and relaxing way.

Fragonard guided tour and perfume workshop

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: According to availability and reservation schedule
Location: Menton
Category: Culture

An experience dedicated to the art of perfume making and the traditions of the French Riviera.

The guided tour introduces visitors to fragrance production techniques and includes a creative workshop inspired by the world of perfumes. It is a suitable activity for adults and families who want to discover an important part of French culture.

Menton’s surprise guided tours

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: According to the official schedule
Location: Historic centre of Menton
Category: Culture

An original way to explore Menton through unexpected routes and fascinating stories.

The “surprise tours” invite visitors to discover hidden corners of the city, historical anecdotes and lesser-known aspects of the local heritage. A great experience for first-time visitors who want to go beyond the most famous attractions.

Library on the beach

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: During the daytime
Location: Menton beaches
Category: Culture

Culture reaches the seaside with Menton’s summer beach library.

The initiative offers books and reading moments by the Mediterranean, creating a relaxing space dedicated to literature and discovery during the summer holidays.

Domaine Gannac visit: lemons, agriculture and local traditions

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: According to reservation schedule
Location: Domaine Gannac, Menton
Category: Culture and nature

The Domaine Gannac offers visits dedicated to citrus cultivation and the history of the famous Menton lemon.

Visitors can discover production methods, learn about local citrus varieties and experience the aromas of the Riviera’s lemon groves.

Guided tours are also available in English.

Guided tour of the Bastion – Jean Cocteau Museum

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: According to opening hours
Location: The Bastion, Menton
Category: Culture

The Musée Jean Cocteau Collection Séverin Wunderman offers visitors the opportunity to explore the artistic world of Jean Cocteau, an artist deeply connected to Menton.

The visit reveals artworks, drawings and documents related to the artist inside one of the city’s most distinctive cultural landmarks.

Exhibition “Cocteau’s Enchanted Gardens”

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: During museum opening hours
Location: Menton
Category: Culture

This exhibition dedicated to the gardens imagined and reinterpreted through Jean Cocteau’s creative universe is one of Menton’s cultural highlights during summer 2026.

A recommended event for art, design and contemporary heritage enthusiasts.

Menton markets: local flavours and summer shopping

Les Halles Market

Date: Saturday July 11, 2026
Time: Morning
Location: Les Halles de Menton
Category: Commercial event

Menton’s covered market is one of the best places to discover local products, regional specialities, fresh fruit, vegetables and Provençal flavours.

Outdoor market and Careï Market

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: Morning
Location: Menton
Category: Commercial event

The city markets offer visitors the chance to buy local products, crafts, clothing and unique items while enjoying the authentic atmosphere of Menton.

Summer Night Market and Village d’été

Date: Saturday July 11, 2026
Time: Evening hours
Location: Menton
Category: Commercial event

During summer, Menton comes alive in the evening with markets, stalls and activities dedicated to visitors.

The Village d’été is one of the most popular summer events for families and tourists looking for an enjoyable evening walk after a day at the beach.

Summer Party and summer entertainment

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: Afternoon and evening
Location: Menton
Category: Leisure and entertainment

Summer 2026 brings music, entertainment and activities for residents and visitors in Menton.

The Summer Party and youth activities enrich the seasonal programme with moments of fun for all ages.

Menton Ferris wheel

Date: Saturday July 11 and Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: Afternoon and evening
Location: Menton seafront area
Category: Leisure and entertainment

The Ferris wheel returns as one of the highlights of Menton’s summer season.

It offers visitors the chance to enjoy spectacular views over the city, the old town and the Mediterranean coast, especially at sunset.

Fête Champêtre of the Maison des Pieds Noirs, des Harkis et de leurs Amis

Date: Sunday July 12, 2026
Time: According to the organisation’s programme
Location: Menton
Category: Festival and entertainment

On Sunday, Menton hosts the Fête Champêtre of the Maison des Pieds Noirs, des Harkis et de leurs Amis, a friendly event dedicated to sharing, remembrance and traditions.

The celebration offers moments of gathering and social interaction in a festive atmosphere.

What to do in Menton during the weekend of July 11-12, 2026

The second weekend of July is the perfect time to combine:

• a walk through Vieux Menton with its colourful streets and artisan shops;
• a cultural visit dedicated to Jean Cocteau;
• a gastronomic experience featuring the Menton lemon;
• an evening by the seafront with night markets and attractions;
• relaxing moments on the beaches of the French Riviera.

With its rich summer programme, Menton in July 2026 confirms its position as an ideal destination for a weekend combining culture, sea, nature and local traditions.