So if we wanted to peak into Italy by car or train from the French Riviera what would that entail and what is right over the border?

Hello islandmom, if you leave France by car from Menton (which is a great place) you simply drive into Italy. If I remember correctly, you will end up in Ventimiglia and then eventually in San Remo. There is quite a difference between France and Italy in that region. The French side is lovely and the Italian side, in my opinion and I love Italy) is not quite as attractive until you get down towards Santa Margherita Ligure. If you are in the area and have time and really want to take a look, then do it. Otherwise, I would just spend more time in Menton.

Have a great trip!

My husband thought I was too kind to say "not quite as attractive". He remembers it being very unattractive as you drove into Italy. San Remo wasn't bad but still different from what you will see on the French side. Maybe others can offer more info for you.

Whether you get a train or drive to Ventimiglia (either of which entail pointing yourself in the right direction and little else), it suddenly changes from France to Italy.

Scenery apart, almost the instant you cross the border, buildings get shabbier, daily life gets slightly less organised and you're in the Medland early 20th century British and American writers batted on about so endlessly: markets with shouting fishwives and all that ethnic colour. By comparison, the French side feels much more Eurobland.

By train, you usually have to change at Ventimiglia, the first station in Italy. There are a few trains that go through from Nice to Genova and beyond. Ventimiglia station used to have passport and customs controls, but they have been abolished and the station is a fairly dreary place. Sanremo is an attractive resort and is probably the best place to go if you just want a peek at Italy.

Well that's disappointing. I was hoping for endless beauty and pasta.

No, no, no. Don't believe that there is no beauty just over the border in Italy. Ventimiglia has a very beautiful beach area where the river empties into the sea. There are very pretty mountains just beyond the sea also. Every Friday there is a gigantic indoor and outdoor market in Ventimiglia. You can buy absolutely anything. Great produce and seafood bargains especially. Most people never take the time to get beyond the train station but the town is very charming and the beach area very very nice. Trust me. I rent an apartment in Beaulieu sur Mer but go often to Ventimiglia.

Have a great time.

Larry J