Menton, Cote d’Azur, France

© Flavio Foglietta/Getty Image

Menton, France

Located at the eastern end of the French Riviera near the Italian border is Menton, the so-called Pearl of France. It’s known for its beauty and incredible weather, with an average of 316 days of sunshine a year, which helps Menton to grow the amazing lemon crops that are celebrated at the annual Fête du Citron, or Menton Lemon Festival. This 17-day extravaganza in February features sculptures created out of lemons and oranges. More than 200,000 visitors marvel at the nearly 150 tonnes of fruit used in the festival.

Due to its strategic location, Menton and its surrounding locale have been coveted by various powers for centuries. The princes of Monaco, Napoleon III, German Nazi forces and the King of Sardinia among others have all held power over this jewel of the Côte d'Azur. These days, Menton has something for everyone – gorgeous gardens, pastel-painted architecture, beaches, cafes, nightlife and, of course, lemons.