The collection contains over 100 different types of citrus, making it one of the largest in the country.
The garden is situated on the grounds of a palace originally built in 1717 for Antoine I of Monaco.
The climate of Menton allows for the successful cultivation of citrus varieties that are difficult to sustain elsewhere in France.
The garden serves as a living conservatory, helping to preserve rare and endangered citrus species.
The site includes a 'citrus conservatory' specifically dedicated to the study and protection of these species.
The Jardin d'agrumes du Palais Carnolès is a botanical garden in Menton featuring one of the most significant collections of citrus trees in France. Located at the former summer residence of the Princes of Monaco, the site preserves over 100 varieties of citrus, including rare species like the combava and finger lime. The grounds house a structured garden layout centered around the 18th-century Palais Carnolès, which serves as a fine arts museum. Visitors can walk through rows of orange, lemon, grapefruit, and mandarin trees that reflect Menton’s historical identity as a major citrus production hub. The garden is managed by the city and serves as a conservatory for genetic diversity within the Rutaceae family. It is recognized as a 'Jardin Remarquable' by the French Ministry of Culture for its horticultural quality and heritage value.
The main alleyway leading toward the Palais, framed by the structured citrus trees.
Check the citrus bloom calendar before visiting to time your trip with the fragrant flowering season.
Spend time walking through the rows specifically to read the variety labels, as the collection is highly educational.
Combine your garden visit with the Fine Arts Museum located inside the Palais.
Do not mistake this for a sprawling forest park; it is a compact, curated botanical collection best suited for horticulture enthusiasts.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays.
Stay on marked paths to avoid damaging the citrus root systems; picking fruit or flowers is strictly prohibited.
