Best Places to Visit in Corsica | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Corsica Travel Guide
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Welcome to Corsica, a stunning island located in the Mediterranean Sea and belonging to France. Known for its rugged mountains, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and charming coastal towns, Corsica offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. As the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, this island is rich in history and culture, with ancient ruins, medieval citadels, and traditional Corsican cuisine waiting to be explored. Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors, relaxation on pristine beaches, or a taste of authentic Mediterranean life, Corsica has it all. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on a journey to this hidden gem of France.
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Best Places To Visit in Corsica
1. Ajaccio: Located on the western coast of Corsica, Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty. Explore the historic old town with its narrow streets and charming buildings, visit the Maison Bonaparte where Napoleon was born, and relax on the beautiful beaches that surround the city.
2. Bonifacio: Perched on the southern tip of Corsica, Bonifacio is a stunning fortified town that sits atop towering limestone cliffs. The medieval citadel is a must-visit, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and the neighboring island of Sardinia. Take a boat trip to explore the caves and grottos along the coast, or simply wander through the narrow streets of the old town and soak in the unique atmosphere.
3. Calvi: Nestled on the northwest coast of Corsica, Calvi is a picturesque town known for its beautiful sandy beaches and impressive citadel. Spend your days lounging on the white sands and swimming in the crystal-clear waters, then explore the historic center with its charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don't miss the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, a stunning example of Baroque architecture.
4. Corte: Located in the heart of Corsica, Corte is a mountain town that offers a glimpse into the island's rich history and culture. The Citadel dominates the town and provides panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Explore the Museum of Corsica to learn about the island's unique traditions and heritage, and hike through the nearby Restonica Valley for breathtaking natural scenery.
5. Porto-Vecchio: Situated on the southeastern coast of Corsica, Porto-Vecchio is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. Spend your days sunbathing on the white sands of Palombaggia Beach or Santa Giulia Beach, then head to the old town in the evening for a lively atmosphere filled with bars, restaurants, and shops. Don't miss the Porto-Vecchio Marina, where you can admire luxurious yachts and enjoy waterfront dining.
6. Bastia: Located in the northeast of Corsica, Bastia is a bustling port town with a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the Old Port area with its colorful buildings and lively cafes, visit the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste with its stunning baroque interior, and wander through the Old Town to discover hidden squares and charming streets. Don't forget to try the local cuisine, which is known for its delicious seafood dishes.
7. Propriano: Situated on the southwestern coast of Corsica, Propriano is a charming seaside town that offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the sandy beaches and clear waters for swimming and water sports, or take a boat trip to explore the nearby Sanguinaires Islands. In the evening, stroll along the marina and dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants offering fresh seafood.
8. Sartene: Known as the "most Corsican of Corsican towns," Sartene is a picturesque hilltop village that showcases the island's traditional way of life. Explore the narrow streets lined with ancient stone houses, visit the Church of Sainte-Marie with its stunning views over the valley, and immerse yourself in the local culture by attending one of the town's festivals or traditional events.
9. Porto: Situated on the western coast of Corsica, Porto is a small fishing village that offers breathtaking natural beauty. Visit the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic red granite cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Take a boat trip to explore the Scandola Nature Reserve, home to diverse marine life and stunning rock formations, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
10. Saint-Florent: Located on the northern coast of Corsica, Saint-Florent is a charming town known for its picturesque harbor and beautiful beaches. Explore the Citadel and wander through the old town, filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the nearby vineyards and taste the region's renowned wines, or take a boat trip to the Desert des Agriates, a stunning nature reserve with pristine beaches and rugged landscapes.
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Tours And Activities In Corsica
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Food & Drinks To Try In Corsica
1. Charcuterie: Corsica is famous for its delicious cured meats, such as lonzu (pork loin), coppa (pork neck), and figatellu (pork liver sausage). These meats are often enjoyed as part of a charcuterie platter, accompanied by local cheeses and bread.
2. Brocciu: Brocciu is a traditional Corsican cheese made from sheep or goat milk. It has a creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor. It is often used in various Corsican dishes, such as the famous Fiadone, a sweet cheesecake-like dessert.
3. Chestnuts: Corsica is known as the "Island of Chestnuts" due to its abundance of chestnut trees. Chestnuts are used in a variety of dishes, including soups, stews, and desserts. One popular chestnut-based dish is the pulenda, a type of polenta made with chestnut flour.
4. Seafood: Being an island, Corsica offers a wide variety of fresh seafood. From grilled fish to seafood pasta dishes, you can indulge in the flavors of the Mediterranean. Don't miss out on trying the local specialty, "araignee de mer" (spider crab), which is often served with a garlic and parsley sauce.
5. Corsican Wine: Corsica has a long history of winemaking, and the island produces a range of excellent wines. Look out for the local grape varieties such as Niellucciu and Vermentinu. Whether you prefer red, white, or rose, there is a Corsican wine to suit every palate.
6. Canistrelli: Canistrelli are traditional Corsican biscuits that come in various flavors, such as anise, lemon, or almond. These crunchy biscuits are perfect for dipping in coffee or enjoying as a sweet treat on their own.
7. Fiadone: Fiadone is a popular Corsican dessert made with brocciu cheese, eggs, sugar, and lemon zest. It has a creamy and slightly tangy flavor, similar to a cheesecake. It is often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a sweet ending to a meal.
8. Corsican Honey: Corsica is known for its high-quality honey, produced by bees that feed on the island's diverse flora. The honey comes in different varieties, including chestnut, maquis (wild shrubland), and citrus. It is a delicious addition to breakfast or can be used in various recipes.
9. Corsican Beer: If you're a beer lover, don't miss the opportunity to try Corsican craft beers. The island has a growing craft beer scene, with breweries producing a range of unique and flavorful beers using local ingredients.
10. Herbal Liqueurs: Corsica is also known for its herbal liqueurs, such as myrtle liqueur and chestnut liqueur. These liqueurs are often enjoyed as digestifs after a meal and have a distinct herbal and aromatic flavor.
Overall, Corsica offers a diverse range of food and drinks to try, showcasing the island's rich culinary traditions and unique flavors. From charcuterie and seafood to local cheeses, wines, and desserts, there is something to satisfy every food lover's palate.
Best Time To Visit Corsica
The best time to visit Corsica, France is during the summer months of June, July, and August. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. Additionally, tourist attractions and restaurants are usually open and operating at full capacity during the summer season. However, it is important to note that Corsica can get crowded during this time, so it is advisable to book accommodations and activities in advance. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall are also good times to visit Corsica. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy hiking, cycling, and sightseeing without the summer crowds. However, some tourist services and attractions may have reduced hours or be closed during the shoulder seasons, so it is important to check in advance. Overall, the best time to visit Corsica depends on your personal preferences and desired activities, but summer and the shoulder seasons are generally the most popular times to explore this beautiful island.
Flight Calendar For Corsica
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Transportation To Corsica
There are several transportation options to Corsica, France:
1. By Air: You can fly to Corsica from various cities in France, as well as from other European countries. The island has four airports: Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, Bastia-Poretta Airport, Calvi-Sainte-Catherine Airport, and Figari Sud-Corse Airport.
2. By Ferry: Corsica is well-connected by ferry services from mainland France and Italy. You can take a ferry from Marseille, Nice, Toulon, or Genoa to reach Corsica. The major ferry ports on the island are Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and Porto-Vecchio.
3. By Train: If you are already in France, you can take a train to reach one of the ferry ports and then continue your journey to Corsica by ferry. The train stations closest to the ferry ports are Marseille Saint-Charles, Nice Ville, and Toulon.
4. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can take a car ferry from mainland France or Italy to Corsica. The ferry ports in Marseille, Nice, Toulon, and Genoa have car ferry services.
5. By Bus: There are also bus services available from various cities in France to Corsica. You can check with the local bus companies for schedules and routes.
Once you are in Corsica, you can use public transportation, such as buses and trains, or rent a car to explore the island.