Hi, we'll be traveling to southern France and northern Spain for three weeks in April 2026. We plan to spend 4 nights/3 days in Nice, including a day trip (first leg by bus, remainder by train) as far east as Ventimiglia. We're most interested in unique architecture, historical sights, and just wandering around. We're thinking of half day in Eze, half day in Monaco, and dinner in Ventimiglia. This means skipping 2 generally recommended towns: Villefranche-sur-Mer and Menton. But it seems that our proposed itinerary better suits our interests. Any thoughts? Are we overlooking compelling reasons to visit the other 2 towns?
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Idaho, USA
9479 posts
Definitely do what interests you vs. what you’re hearing as recommendations. For me, I enjoyed Menton a lot for a few hours because I like twisty lanes to photograph & the striking colors in Menton’s east side combined to make such a fun time of wandering & taking lots of photos. I finally told myself to put the camera away & just savor the atmosphere. In fact, one of my 8 enlarged photos on canvas in my office is from that location. But that may not appeal to you. You can check photos ahead of time on-line or videos to see each of the places you’re considering and decide for yourself.
Another place I enjoyed immensely was the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild - both for the gardens & the villa. I took the early bus from Nice to arrive as it opened and headed directly for the gardens for amazing photos with no people in them. The villa is gorgeous, too.
I wanted to go to St. Paul de Vence, also, but the Ironman Championship was using that route, so I couldn’t go there.
Again, look at options but don’t feel compelled to go see everything. Less is more! : )