Nice to San Remo day trip suggestions

Ventimiglia is most probably not worth your time if you have Sanremo planned: Sanremo is much, much nicer. And Mention deserves most of a day anyway. If you have spare time there, I'd prioritize Roquebrune over Ventimiglia.

Basically, the whole center (roughly from the Casino) all the way to Villa Ormond is worth exploring, and make sure to also explore a bit up on the hill, towards the cathedral and further up still towards the Regina Elena garden.
I haven't visited in many years so can't give lunch recs, but the town left good memories.

Balso, thank you so much for taking the time to write such a helpful reply. In fact, I think we will take both your suggestions: Menton and San Remo, full days, both.

I also recommend nearby Bordhigera, which is between Menton/Ventimiglia and Sanremo. It is a beautiful stop, with a good seafront with restaurants/beach clubs and upper old town. If you have a car, inland and up the alley from Ventimiglia is Dolceacqua and Apricale.

My family and I took a day trip to San Remo from Nice about six years ago and I can't say I was impressed much with the town. It was quite dirty and run down. I don't recall where we had lunch but it was pretty unremarkable.

Personally I don't think it's a good use of your time whilst in France.

Thanks, JC. Appreciate your candor.

Gooster, thank you. While it will be train only, I appreciate your suggestions for our short trip.

It’s been some years ago, but I spent a week in San Remo for a work conference and quite liked it. There’s an old town on a hill with lots of winding passages, some interesting and somewhat odd sites such as a Russian church and Alfred Nobel’s villa. It’s touristed but genuinely Italian. Nice town.