Mediterranean Blues and Alpine Views: Exploring France From Menton to Paris

Start at Marché des Halles de Menton, a charming covered market open daily inside a colorful 19th-century hall. Wander the stalls for fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, cheese, and flowers, along with local specialties like Menton’s famous lemon tarts—perfect for assembling an easy picnic. Mitron Bakery is Menton's premier bakery, known for its lemon tart and citrus specialties.

Then stroll down to the Vieux Port de Menton, where pastel buildings frame the harbor and small fishing boats bob in the water. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, photos, or a sunset aperitif along the waterfront.

If you have time, continue wandering into the old town’s narrow lanes, where you’ll find tucked-away cafés, boutiques, and sweeping views of the Mediterranean.

Since you’re so close to Italy, take the opportunity to indulge in authentic pizza at Ristorante Pizzeria 430gradi.

Spend a day swimming at Plage de la Mala, pairing it with a light coastal hike.

The easiest way to get there is by train from Menton. Pack a picnic, as there are no nearby shops—just two beachfront restaurants, which tend to be pricey. There’s no parking, and accessing the beach requires a short hike with quite a few steps, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

The effort pays off: you’ll be rewarded with calm, safe swimming and stunning scenery in a crescent-shaped bay.

Seek out the hidden gem of Calanque de Maupas, a secluded cove that feels worlds away from the Riviera crowds.

You’ll need to pull over along the highway and follow a short, slightly rugged path down—more of a light hike than a stroll—so wear good shoes and come prepared. The effort is well worth it: crystal-clear water, dramatic cliffs, and a quiet, tucked-away setting make it an ideal spot to swim and unwind.

Settle in, soak up the scenery, and keep an eye out for the passing snack boat—perfect timing for a well-earned popsicle.

Tucked into the cliffs of Provence, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a charming village known for its winding streets, artisan boutiques, and renowned faïence pottery.

Strolling through the village offers endless opportunities to browse handcrafted ceramics and local goods, making it a perfect spot for leisurely shopping.

Afterward, settle in for a relaxed meal at Restaurant Chez Dan, where you can enjoy classic Provençal flavors in a cozy, welcoming setting.

Explore the breathtaking Gorge du Verdon, often called France’s “Grand Canyon” and the largest canyon in Europe. Towering limestone cliffs and impossibly turquoise water make this one of the region’s most dramatic landscapes.

Rent a paddleboat from Base de l’Etoile and glide through the narrowest part of the gorge for an up-close perspective—it’s one of the best ways to experience its scale and beauty.

Plan to go early in the day to avoid crowds, and consider pairing it with a scenic drive along the rim for unforgettable viewpoints.

Nestled at the foot of the Alps, Grenoble is a vibrant city where outdoor adventure and rich history come together.

One of its most iconic experiences is riding the Grenoble-Bastille cable car—the famous “bubbles”—which glides up to panoramic views over the city and surrounding mountains.

Just beyond Grenoble lies the Chartreuse Mountains, home to the legendary Chartreuse liqueur, crafted by monks since the 18th century using a closely guarded recipe of over 100 herbs.

After exploring, indulge in a hearty regional specialty like gratin dauphinois from La Ferme à Dédé.

A visit to Annecy feels like stepping into a postcard, with pastel buildings lining canals and mountains rising dramatically in the background.

One of the best ways to experience it is getting out on the water at Lake Annecy, where the alpine lake is famously clear and framed by snow-dusted peaks. Rent a paddle boat and drift at an easy pace, swim in the turquoise water, and take in the scenery from the middle of the lake. It’s a simple, unhurried moment that really captures the magic of the French Alps.

Start in Le Vieux Lyon, where cobblestone streets, hidden passageways, and Renaissance façades set the tone, then make your way toward the nearby Saint Vincent Footbridge for views over the Saône.

Spend time browsing independent shops like Le Bal des Ardents, then lean into Lyon’s legendary food culture—often said to have more restaurants per capita than NYC.

Experience a classic Lyonnaise bouchon at Le Bouchon des Filles.

A visit to Paris offers endless things to see and do, from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to charming neighborhoods made for wandering.

With so much to experience, the city is just as memorable for its food as its sights. A standout stop is Le Restaurant de l’Entrecôte, known for its indulgent all-you-can-eat steak-frites served with its famously secret sauce, making it a must for classic French comfort food. For a more modern contrast, Kubri offers vibrant, contemporary flavors that showcase the city’s diverse and evolving culinary scene.