Planning a getaway to Corsica, France? This stunning Mediterranean island offers a wealth of experiences, from its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters to its rugged mountains and charming villages. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, you’ll find countless best things to do in Corsica. Discover the vibrant history in cities like Ajaccio and Bastia, embark on hiking trails in the picturesque Corsican countryside, or unwind on beautiful beaches like Palombaggia and Santa Giulia. Our comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Corsica will ensure you make the most of your visit to this enchanting island paradise. Dive into the natural beauty, rich culture, and thrilling activities that make Corsica one of France’s holiday destinations.
10 Best Places to Visit in Corsica
Corsica is enchanting Mediterranean island offers a unique blend of rugged mountains, pristine beaches, historic towns, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or beach enthusiast. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit in Corsica, France.
- Birthplace of Napoleon: Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is known for its vibrant culture and historical significance.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Maison Bonaparte (Napoleon’s birthplace), Ajaccio Cathedral, and the Fesch Museum.
- Activities: Stroll along the Cours Napoléon, enjoy local cuisine at waterfront restaurants, and visit the bustling markets.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer crowds.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry from mainland France, flights to Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, and regular bus services from other Corsican towns.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the Îles Sanguinaires and their stunning sunset views.
- Clifftop City: Bonifacio is renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and medieval architecture.
- Top Attractions: Discover the historic Citadel of Bonifacio, the King Aragon’s Staircase, and the Marine Cemetery.
- Activities: Take a boat tour to explore sea caves and the Lavezzi Islands, and enjoy panoramic views from the cliffs.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best beach and sightseeing conditions.
- How to Get There: Reachable by ferry from Sardinia and flights to Figari-Sud Corse Airport.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the Lavezzi Islands and Rondinara Beach.
- Historic and Scenic: Calvi boasts a stunning mix of historical sites and beautiful beaches.
- Top Attractions: Explore the impressive Calvi Citadel, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, and Calvi Marina.
- Activities: Relax on Calvi Beach, hike the Revellata Peninsula, and attend the annual Calvi on the Rocks Festival.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for vibrant festivals and beach days; spring and autumn for hiking.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry, flights to Calvi-Sainte-Catherine Airport, and train services from Bastia and L’Île-Rousse.
- Nearby Attractions: The picturesque village of Sant’Antonino and Scandola Nature Reserve.
- Stylish Coastal Town: Known for its vibrant nightlife and gorgeous beaches.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Old Town, Porto-Vecchio Marina, and the Church of Saint John the Baptist.
- Activities: Enjoy water sports at Palombaggia Beach and Santa Giulia Beach, and explore the nearby Ospedale Forest.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for optimal beach weather and outdoor activities.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry and flights to Figari-Sud Corse Airport.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore Bonifacio and its dramatic cliffs.
- Cultural and Natural Hub: Located in the heart of the island, Corte is rich in history and surrounded by stunning nature.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Corte Citadel, Museum of Corsica, and the Gorges de la Restonica.
- Activities: Hike to Lac de Melo and Lac de Capitello, and enjoy the local markets and traditional Corsican cuisine.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for hiking and exploring the area’s natural beauty.
- How to Get There: Accessible by train from Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi, or by car.
- Nearby Attractions: The scenic Restonica Valley and Tavignano Gorge.
- Historic Port City: Bastia is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling port.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Vieux Port, visit the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and stroll through Terra Nova and Terra Vecchia.
- Activities: Relax at Arinella Beach, tour the local markets, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather and fewer tourists.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry from mainland France and Italy, and flights to Bastia-Poretta Airport.
- Nearby Attractions: The picturesque village of Erbalunga and Cap Corse.
- Charming Seaside Town: Derived from the red rocks in its bay, L’Île-Rousse offers sandy beaches and a laid-back atmosphere.
- Top Attractions: Visit the Île-Rousse Lighthouse, Place Paoli, and Morne Rouge Beach.
- Activities: Swim in the clear waters, explore local shops and cafes, and take a ride on the historic train to Calvi.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for beach activities; spring and autumn for a quieter experience.
- How to Get There: Accessible by ferry and regular train services from Calvi and Bastia.
- Nearby Attractions: The stunning beaches of Algajola and Ostriconi.
- Most Corsican Town of Corsica: Known for its medieval architecture and deep-rooted traditions.
- Top Attractions: Explore the Old Town, Church of Sainte Marie, and the Torra di Roccapina.
- Activities: Wander through narrow streets, visit local markets, and partake in the traditional Catenacciu Procession during Easter.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for cultural experiences and festivals.
- How to Get There: Accessible by car from Ajaccio and Bonifacio.
- Nearby Attractions: The prehistoric site of Filitosa and the village of Propriano.
- Prehistoric Site: Filitosa is one of the most important prehistoric sites in the Mediterranean.
- Top Attractions: The ancient menhirs, carved stone statues dating back over 6,000 years.
- Activities: Explore the archaeological site and visit the on-site museum.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather.
- How to Get There: Accessible by car from Ajaccio and Sartène.
- Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with a trip to Sartène or Propriano.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: This protected marine and terrestrial area is known for its unique rock formations and biodiversity.
- Top Attractions: The striking red cliffs, unique rock formations, and diverse marine life.
- Activities: Boat tours, snorkeling, and birdwatching.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best weather conditions.
- How to Get There: Accessible by boat from Porto and Calvi.
- Nearby Attractions: Calanques de Piana and the village of Porto-Ota.
10 Best Things to Do in Corsica
This Mediterranean island, known for its stunning landscapes, offers a wealth of thrilling adventure activities. From hiking its rugged mountains and exploring underwater worlds, to scaling cliffs and gliding above sparkling bays, Corsica is a paradise for adventure seekers. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Corsica, France.
- World-renowned Hike: The GR20 is one of Europe’s most challenging and spectacular long-distance hiking trails.
- Location: Spans from Calenzana in the north to Conca in the south.
- Activities: Multi-day hiking, camping, and nature photography.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best weather conditions.
- Travel Tip: Prepare adequately; the trail is demanding. Local guides are available for less experienced hikers.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the charming coastal towns of Calvi and Porto-Vecchio after completing your hike.
- Underwater Wonderland: The Lavezzi Islands, part of a marine nature reserve, offer some of the best diving spots in Corsica.
- Location: Off the coast of Bonifacio.
- Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and underwater photography.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best underwater visibility and sea conditions.
- Travel Tip: Dive centers in Bonifacio offer equipment rental and guided dives.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the historic town of Bonifacio and its dramatic cliffs.
- Thrilling Water Adventure: Canyoning in the Bavella Gorge lets you navigate through narrow canyons, jump into clear pools, and rappel down waterfalls.
- Location: Bavella Massif, near Zonza.
- Activities: Canyoning, swimming, and abseiling.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for optimal water levels.
- Travel Tip: Several local operators offer guided tours, providing all necessary gear.
- Nearby Attractions: Hike in the Bavella Needles and visit the village of Zonza.
- Climbing Challenges: The Restonica Valley offers excellent rock climbing opportunities with granite cliffs and scenic routes.
- Location: Near Corte.
- Activities: Rock climbing, bouldering, and abseiling.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best climbing conditions.
- Travel Tip: Climbing guides are available, and gear can be rented locally.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the historical town of Corte and hike to Lac de Melo.
- Spectacular Coastal Adventure: Paddle through the stunning coastline of Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Location: West coast of Corsica, near Porto.
- Activities: Sea kayaking, birdwatching, and exploring hidden coves.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for calm sea conditions.
- Travel Tip: Guided tours are available for different skill levels, and kayaks can be rented in Porto.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the village of Evisa and the Calanques de Piana.
- Aerial Adventure: Experience the beauty of Corsica from the sky with paragliding over the stunning Balagne region.
- Location: Around Calvi and L’Île-Rousse.
- Activities: Tandem paragliding, solo flights for experienced paragliders.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best flying conditions.
- Travel Tip: Tandem flights with certified instructors are available for beginners.
- Nearby Attractions: Relax on the beaches of Calvi and visit the village of Sant’Antonino.
- Thrilling Rides: Explore the rugged trails and breathtaking scenery of the Asco Valley on mountain bikes.
- Location: Near Asco.
- Activities: Mountain biking, trail riding, and nature photography.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for ideal trail conditions.
- Travel Tip: Bikes can be rented locally, and guided tours are available.
- Nearby Attractions: Hike to Monte Cinto, Corsica’s highest peak.
- Extreme Water Sports: The windy conditions around Bonifacio make it a top destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing.
- Location: Piantarella Beach and Kite Beach near Bonifacio.
- Activities: Windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best wind conditions.
- Travel Tip: Equipment rental and lessons are available at local schools.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the picturesque town of Bonifacio and visit the Lavezzi Islands.
- Off-Road Adventure: Discover the rugged and remote landscapes of the Agriates Desert on a thrilling jeep safari.
- Location: Desert des Agriates, near Saint-Florent.
- Activities: Off-road driving, exploring secluded beaches, and wildlife spotting.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to autumn for manageable temperatures and road conditions.
- Travel Tip: Book guided tours for a safe and informative experience.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the beach of Saleccia and the village of Saint-Florent.
- Cave Exploration: Explore the fascinating underground world of Corsica with a caving adventure at Grotta del Diavolo.
- Location: Near Ajaccio.
- Activities: Spelunking and cave exploration.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, though summer offers more accessible conditions.
- Travel Tip: Guided tours are recommended for safety and the best experience.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon, and explore its museums and historical sites.
10 Most Beautiful Beaches in Corsica
Corsica is Known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine white sands, and breathtaking scenery, Corsica offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. Whether you’re seeking secluded coves or lively coastal spots, this is guide to most beautiful beaches in Corsica, France
- White Sands and Clear Waters: Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica, Palombaggia boasts fine white sand and turquoise waters.
- Location: Near Porto-Vecchio.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, and beach volleyball.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the warmest waters and best beach conditions.
- Facilities: Beach bars, restaurants, sunbeds, and water sports rentals.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the town of Porto-Vecchio and visit Santa Giulia Beach.
- Idyllic Lagoon: Known for its shallow lagoon with crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for families.
- Location: South of Porto-Vecchio.
- Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and beach games.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the warmest water temperatures; spring and autumn for fewer crowds.
- Facilities: Restaurants, beach bars, sun lounger rentals, and water sports facilities.
- Nearby Attractions: Palombaggia Beach and the stunning Bonifacio Cliffs.
- Secluded Cove: Rondinara Beach, with its horseshoe-shaped bay and shallow waters, offers a peaceful retreat.
- Location: Between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing in the sun.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best beach experience.
- Facilities: Restrooms, a beach restaurant, and parking.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit the medieval town of Bonifacio and the Lavezzi Islands for a day trip.
- Untouched Beauty: Saleccia Beach is famous for its pristine white sand and remote location, offering a sense of tranquility.
- Location: In the Desert des Agriates.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the natural surroundings.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for warm water, but spring and autumn offer fewer visitors.
- Facilities: Limited facilities; bring your own supplies. Accessible by boat or off-road vehicle.
- Nearby Attractions: Lotu Beach and the nearby town of Saint-Florent.
- Family-Friendly Spot: This beach is ideal for families with its clear, shallow waters and soft sand.
- Location: Near Lumio, north of Calvi.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for warm waters and pleasant weather.
- Facilities: Snack bars, sun loungers, and umbrellas available for rent.
- Nearby Attractions: The vibrant town of Calvi and its historic citadel.
- Secluded Paradise: Lotu Beach offers calm, clear waters and a scenic landscape, perfect for a relaxing beach day.
- Location: In the Desert des Agriates, near Saint-Florent.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for warm temperatures; access is easier via boat or off-road in good weather.
- Facilities: Limited facilities; plan to bring your own food and water.
- Nearby Attractions: Saleccia Beach and the coastal town of Saint-Florent.
- Historic and Scenic: Known for its clear waters and historic Genovese tower, Santa Maria Beach offers both beauty and a bit of history.
- Location: On the Lavezzi Islands, accessible from Bonifacio.
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the surrounding islands.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the warmest water, though spring and autumn provide a quieter experience.
- Facilities: No facilities; the beach is remote, requiring a boat trip from Bonifacio.
- Nearby Attractions: Lavezzi Islands and the vibrant town of Bonifacio.
- Natural Beauty: A lesser-known gem, Cupabia Beach offers stunning clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers.
- Location: On the west coast, south of Propriano.
- Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the clear, azure waters.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the warmest water and best weather conditions.
- Facilities: Limited amenities but often has a seasonal eatery.
- Nearby Attractions: Explore the town of Propriano and the beautiful Valinco Gulf.
- Golden Sands: Known as one of the best beaches near Ajaccio, Mare E Sole offers fine golden sands and crystal-clear waters.
- Location: In the Gulf of Ajaccio.
- Activities: Swimming, beach volleyball, and snorkeling.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for the peak beach experience, though spring and autumn are quieter.
- Facilities: Restaurants, beach bars, and sun lounger rentals available.
- Nearby Attractions: Visit Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon, and explore its museums and historical landmarks.
- Tranquil Haven: This stunning beach is known for its pine tree-surrounded shores and turquoise waters.
- Location: Near Sainte-Lucie-de-Porto-Vecchio.
- Activities: Swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn for the best beach conditions.
- Facilities: Beachside eateries, sun loungers, and water sports rentals.
- Nearby Attractions: See the charming village of Sainte-Lucie-de-Porto-Vecchio and enjoy hiking trails nearby.
Travel Information for Corsica
Planning a visit to the enchanting island of Corsica? Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Corsica is a must-visit destination in the Mediterranean. Here’s your comprehensive travel guide for Corsica, packed with essential travel information for Corsica, France.
By Air: Corsica is served by four main airports: Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, Bastia-Poretta Airport, Calvi-Sainte-Catherine Airport, and Figari-Sud Corse Airport.
- Direct Flights: Major European cities offer direct flights to Corsica, especially during the tourist season.
- From Paris: Multiple daily flights from both Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) to all Corsican airports.
By Ferry: Ferries connect Corsica to mainland France (Marseille, Nice, Toulon) and Italy (Livorno, Genoa, Savona). Major ferry ports include Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and Porto-Vecchio.
- Companies: SNCM, Corsica Ferries, and Moby Lines offer frequent services.
- Travel Time: Ferry trips range from 4-8 hours depending on the route and type of service.
By Train and Plane: Combine train travel with flights for a seamless trip from major cities like Paris, Marseille, and Nice.
Public Transit: Corsica has a network of buses and trains that connect major towns and cities.
- Trains: The narrow-gauge railway, Chemins de Fer de Corse, offers scenic routes between Ajaccio, Corte, and Bastia.
- Buses: Regional buses connect larger towns but can be infrequent and slow.
Car Rentals: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Corsica’s diverse landscapes and remote areas.
- Rental Agencies: Available at airports and major towns; for a smoother experience, book in advance.
- Driving: Roads can be narrow and winding, especially in mountainous regions. Drive carefully.
Biking: Corsica is bike-friendly with scenic cycling routes.
- Bike Rentals: Available in larger towns; guided bike tours are also popular.
Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis are available in urban areas, but rideshare services like Uber are limited.
- Luxury Hotels: Experience top-tier luxury at places like Hotel La Villa in Calvi and Sofitel Golfe d’Ajaccio Thalassa Sea & Spa.
- Boutique Hotels: For unique stays, consider Casa Del Mar in Porto-Vecchio and Hotel Dolce Vita in Ajaccio.
- Budget-Friendly Options: Affordable choices include Ibis Hotels, budget lodgings, and hostels like Hotel Fesch in Ajaccio.
- Vacation Rentals: Use platforms like Airbnb and Gîtes de France to find charming villas and apartments.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying mild weather with blooming landscapes.
- Summer (June to August): Warm weather, perfect for beach activities and festivals, but expect more tourists.
- Autumn (September to November): Beautiful fall foliage, pleasant weather, and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December to February): Quieter with fewer tourists, though some attractions may have limited hours or be closed.
- Ajaccio: Explore the birthplace of Napoleon, visit the Maison Bonaparte, and relax on Mare e Sole Beach.
- Bonifacio: Discover the spectacular clifftop town, visit the Citadel, and take a boat tour to the Lavezzi Islands.
- Calvi: Wander through the historic Calvi Citadel, enjoy the beaches, and hike in the Revellata Peninsula.
- Porto-Vecchio: Explore the charming old town, relax on Palombaggia Beach, and visit the Ospedale Forest.
- Corte: Visit the Corte Citadel and the Museum of Corsica, and hike through the Restonica Valley.
- Scandola Nature Reserve: Take a boat tour to see stunning red cliffs, unique rock formations, and diverse marine life.
- Corsican Cuisine: Savor local dishes such as figatellu (Corsican sausage), wild boar stew, brocciu cheese, and chestnut-based dishes.
- Seafood: Enjoy fresh seafood specialties such as spiny lobster, red mullet, and scampi.
- Wine: Corsica is known for its exceptional wines. Sample local varieties such as Vermentino, Sciaccarellu, and Niellucciu.
- Markets and Local Produce: Visit local markets like Marché d’Ajaccio and Marché de Bastia to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and artisan products.
- Dining: Enjoy traditional meals in auberges (inns) and dine at waterfront restaurants in towns like Porto-Vecchio and Calvi.
- Local Markets: Shop for fresh produce, artisanal goods, and souvenirs at vibrant markets in Ajaccio, Bastia, and Corte.
- Boutique Shops: Discover unique gifts, local crafts, and fashion in charming boutiques in towns like Bonifacio and Calvi.
- Wines and Spirits: Visit local vineyards and wine shops to buy renowned Corsican wines and spirits.
- Handicrafts: Explore shops offering handmade pottery, textiles, and woodwork, particularly in villages like Sartène and Piana.
- Language: French is the official language. While many locals speak some English, learning basic French phrases is appreciated.
- Currency: The currency is the Euro (€). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but having some cash is handy for smaller purchases and markets.
- Safety: Corsica is generally very safe. Exercise standard precautions, secure valuables, and be vigilant in crowded areas.
- Weather: The climate varies from coastal Mediterranean to mountain. Always carry a light jacket, especially when hiking or visiting higher altitudes.
- Greetings: A polite “Bonjour” (hello) and “Merci” (thank you) are customary. In formal settings, a handshake or light kiss on the cheek (La bise) is practiced.
- Dining Etiquette: Wait until everyone is served before starting your meal. Tipping is usually included (service compris), but leaving a small extra tip for excellent service is appreciated.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly for church visits and stylishly for dining out. While casual wear is suitable for sightseeing, Corsicans appreciate a well-put-together appearance.
- Hiking: Explore scenic trails, including the famous GR20, which spans the island from north to south.
- Water Sports: Enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the island’s pristine beaches and clear waters.
- Rock Climbing: Discover excellent climbing spots in regions like the Restonica Valley.
- Horseback Riding: Explore Corsica’s diverse landscapes on guided horseback rides available in several locations.
