Looking for a Corsica Travel Guide to plan your next vacation? Look no further, here are the most beautiful places to visit alongside everything you need to know to plan the trip of your dream!
Did you know that Corsica is also referred to as the “Island of Beauty”? This nickname alone is a good reason to plan a vacation there and visit its many wonders and diverse landscapes. But organizing a trip can be time-consuming when you don’t know anything about the destination…
Don’t worry, that’s what I’m here for! After reading my Corsica Travel Guide, the French island won’t have any more secrets for you… So, are you ready to learn what Corsica is famous for and plan the vacation of your dreams?
This post showcases my ultimate Corsica travel guide! Let’s turn your dream vacation into reality!
ABOUT THE ISLAND OF BEAUTY…
Did you know that Corsica has not always been French? Throughout history, Corsica has been under Genoese control. Despite Corsican revolts against their rulers, it remained this way until the latter part of the 18th century. Genoa then ceded Corsica to France, and Corsicans tried to gain their independence. In vain… the island officially became a French department in 1790.
This turbulent past explains why the culture and heritage there are different from those on the mainland. In fact, most Corsicans don’t consider themselves properly French, but fully Corsican.
But you might wonder, if they are French citizens, what makes their culture so different? Well, firstly, they speak their own language, which shares some similarities with Italian. Don’t get me wrong, everyone can speak French there, but Corsican is still used daily, even by the youngest.
Secondly, having been part of various Italian empires and states for most of their history, Corsicans tend to identify more with Italian culture and heritage than with French.
That more or less everything I can tell you about Corsican history and heritage… After all, I am not a historian, just a travel and photography lover!
HOW TO GET THERE?
As you are planning to travel to an island, you might wonder: How to get to Corsica? You’ll be happy to know that you have two options!
You can either get there by ferry, which is a great option for people afraid or anxious about flying, or by plane! Booking a flight will be quicker and probably less expensive… But let me dive into that, so you can compare and choose the option that suits you best to travel to Corsica.
FERRY
When traveling to an island, most people first think about flying there. However, there is one reason, and I believe it’s a good one, that may convince you to pick the ferry over the plane… You can bring your car with you on the ferry! And for traveling around Corsica, having a car is a huge advantage! But I’ll talk about this later…
FERRY TO CORSICA FROM FRANCE
You can find all the information you need and book your ferry ticket right here, but I’ll quickly sum it up for you!
You have a variety of choices to pick from for your port of departure: Nice, Sète, Toulon, and even Marseille. But if you want to leave from Marseille, you’ll have to travel with a different company. It all depends on your preference; there is no ideal route!
The same goes for where you want to arrive in Corsica. There you will have four different options: Bastia, Ajaccio, Ile Rousse, and Porto-Vecchio. Once again, it is totally up to you and your itinerary!
Depending on the route you choose and the dates you need to travel, prices vary between €70 and €150 per person (this is an approximate price…). The duration of the journey will also vary depending on your departure and arrival ports, but keep it mind that the shortest route take more than 7 hours!
Don’t hesitate to compare prices before booking. You could save a lot of money!
IF YOU ARE SPENDING A FEW DAYS IN THE SOUTH OF FRANCE BEFORE OR AFTER YOUR VACATION IN CORSICA, take a look at all the places you should visit in this area!
FERRY TO CORSICA FROM ITALY
Good news! You can also reach Corsica from Italy, which can be really convenient if you are already there and don’t want a layover in France.
You can book your tickets and access all the information you need right here (it is the same company as the one traveling from France), but here is a quick summary!
The ports of arrival remain the same whether you are traveling from France or from Italy. But here are the ports of departure you can choose from: Livorno, Piombino, Savona, and you can also travel directly from Sardinia. There are two available ports: G. Aranci and Porto Torres.
The duration and prices of the journey per person are more or less the same as they are when traveling from France. So once again, pick the tickets that work best with your itinerary and needs!
PLANE
The major advantage of flying to Corsica is how quick it is from France or Italy in comparison with taking the ferry. Prices can also be really low if you are traveling outside peak season.
As an example, I traveled there last year from France in October for €60 roundtrip with Volotea Airlines.
There are four airports in Corsica, but the two mains airports are in Bastia and Ajaccio.
Bastia’s airport is located in the northern part of Corsica, while Ajaccio’s airport is in the southern part. Check out the places you want to visit there to see which airport is more convenient for you.
Also, keep in mind that Corsica is a tiny island… So if you are planning on renting a car there, you can easily and quickly travel from one side of the island to the other!
Corsica travel guide
To do and see in corsica
Now, for the moment you’ve been waiting for… Here goes your Corsica travel guide! So, take notes and plan your perfect Corsica itinerary!
MOST POPULAR PLACES IN CORSICA
BASTIA
Located on the northeast coast of Corsica, Bastia is one of the most important cities on the island, and for good reasons! Firstly, its port is one of the busiest. If you’re traveling to Corsica by ferry, Bastia could be a great arrival destination, allowing you to explore the city right after disembarking.
Here are the most popular things to do in Bastia:
- Stroll around the Old Port: Filled with colorful houses, paved streets, and charming cafés and restaurants, the Old Port area is perfect for a sunny but not too hot day.
- Visit the Citadel: Offering panoramic views of the city and the sea, the Citadel is a must-visit attraction in Bastia. If you are a history enthusiast, you will love learning about Corsica’s past there.
- Attend a festival or cultural event: Bastia is known to be a cultural hub in Corsica. With museums, theaters, concerts, and festivals, there’s always something happening. Take a look at the cultural calendar while you’re there and enjoy the Corsican culture!
saint-FLORENT
Located forty minutes’ drive from Bastia, on the west coast of the island, Saint-Florent is a charming town that you should definitely add to your Corsica itinerary.
Here are the best things to do in Saint-Florent:
- Enjoy the Old Town: Take a stroll around the narrow cobbled streets and enjoy a late afternoon drink or meal along the waterfront. The atmosphere is lovely, which makes it the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploration.
- Visit the Genoese Citadel: Similar to the Citadel of Bastia, the Genoese Citadel in Saint-Florent offers panoramic views over the city and the sea. Enjoy the views and learn more about the history!
- Agriates Desert: Just 30 minutes away from the charming town of Saint-Florent lies the Agriates Desert. With sandy dunes and wild landscapes, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers looking for calm and tranquility.
- Festivals in Saint-Florent: The most popular festivals there are the Wine Fair and Summer Festival. Don’t miss out and check if something is happening while you are there!
AJACCIO
Ajaccio, also situated on the western coast of the island, is capital city of Corsica. Here’s a fun fact for you: it’s also the birthplace of Napoléon. If you are in Ajaccio during August, be sure to partake in the Napoleon Bonaparte Days. Parades, concerts, and tons of events throughout the city. But don’t worry, regardless of the time of your visit, there’s plenty to keep you busy.
The port of Ajaccio is also one of the biggest of the island, so if you are taking a ferry to Corsica, it might be a good option to consider!
Here are the best things to do in Ajaccio:
- Explore the Old Town: Much like other major cities in Corsica, Ajaccio’s Old Town is charming and perfect for a leisurely day. Take your time to wander through its streets, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in its ambiance.
- Outdoor Adventures: Ajaccio’s unique landscape offers a ton of outdoor activities to try. Whether you’re into hiking, mountain biking, or watersports, you will find something you like!
- Cultural Scene: Being a capital city, Ajaccio has a rich cultural scene with plenty of museums, theaters, and events to explore. Be sure to take a look at the city’s cultural calendar to find something that you might be interested in.
PORTO-VECCHIO
The specificity of Porto-Vecchio is its location… Between mountains and beach. Which makes it beautiful and quite particular in comparision with other Corsican cities of interest.
Here are the best things to do in Porto-Vecchio:
- Old Town and the Marina: Once again, while exploring this Corsican city, take your time to enjoy the charming old town. Shops, restaurants, cafes—there’s plenty to discover. And if you are bored of old towns, head to the marina and observe the comings and goings of boats and yachts while enjoying a coffee. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet moment before your next adventure!
- Outdoor Adventures: Due to its location, between mountains and sea, Porto-Vecchio offers a lot of outdoor activities, from mountain excursions to watersports. One of the most famous spots for a hike or scenic exploration is the Aiguilles de Bavella.
- Nightlife: Porto-Vecchio is well known across the island for its vibrant nightlife. Whether you seek a calm evening sipping cocktails or a lively night of clubbing, you’ll find happiness here!
bonifaccio
30 minutes south of Porto-Vecchio you will find the stunning and pitoresque town of Bonifaccio. Maybe my favorite place in this Corsica travel guide. Built on the top of the cliff, it is for sure one of the most beautiful place to visit in Corsica. With a ton of things to do and explore, you are goingto have a blast!
Here are the best things to do in Bonifaccio:
- Visit the medieval town: The medieval town of Bonifaccio is lovely and walking around the narrow streets feels like stepping back in time!
- Walk by the cliffs: If you’re looking for breathtaking views, look no further! Follow the footpath and take in the scenery. Don’t worry, the path is mostly flat, and anyone can enjoy it
- Staircase of the King Aragon: If you are familiar with this part of history, here is a quick information for you… Legend has it that the 187-step staircase was carved into the cliff in just one night by King Aragon’s troops. Do you believe it?
- Festivals: Bonifacio hosts two major festivals, the Sea Festival and the Music Festival. If you’re in the area, be sure not to miss out on them!
ILE-ROUSSE
If there’s one thing you must do in Île-Rousse, it’s watching the sunset! I assure you, the golden hour light casting over the rocks is simply magical! But if you can’t make it there for sunset, don’t worry; you’ll still be able to enjoy the place!
Here are the best things to do in Ile-Rousse:
- Historic Sites: While walking around the old town, don’t overlook the historic sites. Here are the most important ones to see: the Pascal Paoli statue, the Église de l’Immaculée Conception, and the old Genoese tower. Maybe you’ll learn something new along the way!
- Outdoor Activities: Île-Rousse is just an hour away from the famous Monte Cinto. If you’re a mountain lover, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit and enjoy a hike!
calvi
Last but not least of your Corsica travel guide, the lovely town of Calvi! Between mountains and sea, the views you will get from there are just beautiful. And I believe Calvi is the perfect place to spend a day in Corsica.
Here are the best things to do in Calvi:
- Visit the Citadel: The historic fortress perched atop the cliff offers the best views of the city and the sea. It’s another incredible scenery to take in during your trip to Corsica!
- Old Town: Yes, I know… Exploring the old town again? But I promise it’s worth it! It’s such a charming place to spend a few hours and truly enjoy your vacation!
- Outdoor Activities: Thanks to its location between the mountains and the sea, Calvi has a lot of outdoor activities to offer. Just choose the one you want most and immerse yourself in your Corsican experience!
- Festivals and Events: Calvi is renowned for hosting two music festivals that attract people from all over the world: the Jazz Festival and the Rock Music Festival. If you’re a fan of either genre, be sure to add it to your itinerary!
MOST POPULAR ACTIVITIES IN CORSICA
To wrap up my Corsica travel guide, let me summarize the most popular activities on the island. This way, you’ll have all the information you need to plan the perfect vacation to the Island of Beauty!
CORSICAN BEACHES
That’s no surprise at all! After all, Corsica is an island, and no visit would be complete without spending time at the beach.
Here are some of the most popular beaches in Corsica, along with the closest city to each of them:
- Beaches near Saint-Florent: Fiume Santu and Fiume Bughju Beach, Roia Beach, and Salecia Beach.
- Beaches near Ajaccio: Porticcio Beach, Ajaccio Beach, Capo di Fino and Saint-Francois Beach.
- Beaches near Porto-Vecchio: Palombaggia Beach and Santa Giulia Beach.
- Beaches near Bonifaccio: Sutta Rocca Beach and Paraguan Beach.
- Beaches near Calvi: Oscelluccia Beach and Sainte Restitude Beach.
- Beaches near Ile-Rousse: Rindara Beach, Lozari Beach and Bodri Beach.
EXPLORING SMALL VILLAGES
While driving through the Corsican moutains or alongside the coast, don’t hesitate to stop and explore the small villages. Some of them are charming and locals will be more than happy to show you their home!
Here are the 5 best villages in Corsica along with their travel guide:
- Nonza: Complete travel guide to Nonza.
- Sant’Antonino: Complete travel guide to Sant’Antonio.
- Sartene: Complete travel guide to Sartene.
- Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano: Complete travel guide to Sainte-Lucie-de-Tallano.
- Cervione: Complete travel guide to Cervione.
WINE ROUTE
Who wouldn’t want to learn about and taste the most popular French beverage? After all, a glass of wine is the perfect complement to any vacation.
Wine enthusiasts will be happy to know that Corsica has its own Wine Route, where you can taste and learn about the winemaking process. While I’m not suggesting you stop at every vineyard along the route (unless you want to, of course), some of them are located in charming countryside areas worth exploring.
Here is the complete route for you to plan your Corsican itinerary! I personally visited a vineyard in the region of Patrimonio and loved every second of this excursion!
LOCAL FOOD TASTING
Have you heard of Corsican culinary specialties before? If you haven’t, it’s time to check them out! Believe me, each one is more delicious than the last. Your belly will thank you later!
Here are the best food to try in Corsica:
- Charcuterie: Even on the French mainland, Corsican charcuterie is considered among the best. Most of it is made from Nustrale pig, a special breed of pig. If you’re not particularly fond of charcuterie, there are some Corsican sausages that might just change your mind! Give them a try!
- Cheese: What pairs better with Corsican wine than some Corsican cheese? You’ll find mostly goat cheese here. From the youngest to the most refined cheese, there’s something for everyone. Personally, I LOVE THEM ALL!
- Canistrelli: If you have a sweet tooth, you must try Canistrelli! Often flavored with almonds or lemon, they are perfect for pairing with a cup of coffee!
Of course, Corsican cuisine offers much more than these, but they are the ones you absolutely can’t miss out on!
HIKING AND DISCOVERING THE MOUNTAINS
If you’re into hiking, you’ll be in heaven in Corsica! And if you’re feeling adventurous, and well-prepared obviously, why not tackle the famous GR-20? Honestly, it’s one of my hiking goals, and I can’t wait to accomplish it one day! 200 km in the mountains, crossing the entire island from north to south!
As I haven’t done it yet, I can’t give you much advice… But from what I’ve heard around me, it’s fantastic! Just be aware that there is a huge problem of bed fleas in the Corsican mountain refuges… So take a look into this matter, and maybe it would be better to bring your own tent and just get your meals from the refuges!
If you’re not feeling like walking 200 km, which I can understand… Take a look at the different stages and just pick the ones that you feel like doing!
Now, if you like being in the mountains but don’t enjoy hiking… If you’ve rented a car, simply find a good viewpoint on Google Maps, drive there, and enjoy the sunset! I’ve done it before, and… WOW! It will forever be one of my favorite sunsets!
HOW TO GET AROUND EASILY
Unfortunately, public transportation in Corsica is not well-developed. So, my biggest advice for you if you’re planning on moving around is to rent a car. I rented mine from Europcar, and the experience was perfect. I know it’s a budget concern, so if you’re trying to save money but still want to rent a car, try to rent it for a shorter period of time and plan your itinerary well.
If you’re just looking for a relaxing beach vacation in Corsica, don’t worry about it! Just find an area on the island to stay where you have shops and beaches within walking distance and sit back!