Ajaccio

Discover Ajaccio's Wonders

Birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte and home to some awe-inspiring natural landscapes, Southern Corsica (or Corse-du-Sud) entices with outdoor pursuits, remnants of prehistoric settlements and stunningly diverse scenery. From the dramatic white cliffs of Bonifacio to the whimsical rock formations of Piana to the uninhabited Lavezzi Islands and white-sand beaches, Southern Corsica has plenty to capture your imagination.

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Description

Southern Corsica's visitor hot spots are Propriano and Porto-Vecchio (known for its lively nightlife), along with the capital of Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, whose family home, Maison Bonaparte, has now been transformed into a public museum. The western coast of Corsica boasts numerous sandy beaches that stretch down to the southernmost point of the island. The region's highlights include the impressive Citadel of Bonifacio, situated atop steep white cliffs, and the pristine, uninhabited Lavezzi Islands located just off the coast. Sartène, although situated away from the frequented coastal areas, is a quintessential Corsican town with a rather grim past–it had notoriously struggled with gang crime–that has preserved a good amount of its medieval charm. It is primarily known for its annual Good Friday procession, an event that aims to recreate Jesus' journey to the Calvary. The 35-kilo cross and 17-kilo chain used in the procession are on display year-round at the Sartène church of St Mary.

Useful information

Population:

351,255 (2023)

Currency:

1 euro = 100 cents

Emergency Info:

Medical: 15
Police: 17
Fire: 18
Mobile emergency number: 112

Opening Hours:

Although business hours vary, there is often a lunch break at most shops and small businesses, making the customary working hours from 8:30/9am to 1/1:30pm and from 2/2:30pm to 6/7pm. Most businesses close on Sundays.

Do & See

Aiguilles de Bavella

To see some of the island's most striking natural landscapes, follow the Col de Bavella, a mountain pass that boasts spectacular views of the Aiguilles de Bavella (the Bavella "needles", called that for its spiry peaks). A part of the G20 trail runs from the Notre Dame des Neiges statue all the way up to the massif.

Ajaccio

The capital of Corsica and the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, Ajaccio is an attractive seaside settlement with an animated yet slow-paced street life. Some of its primary attractions include the Maison Bonaparte (the Bonaparte family's ancestral home) and the fine arts museum Musée Fesch, containing works of great masters such as Titian and Botticelli.

Bonifacio

Perched atop a towering rock platform in Bonifacio, just 12 kilometres from Sardinia, Italy, is the island's oldest citadel. This must-visit attraction exudes a relaxed and uncomplicated vibe that feels more like southern Italy than France. Its dramatic location adds to its charm and makes it a unique experience.

Calanques de Piana Cliffs

One of the island's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the wondrous cliffs of Piana are best seen in the evening when the natural reds of the earth light up in the rays of the setting sun. Another way to see the cliffs is from the water, on a boat cruise in the Gulf of Porto.

Canyoning

Corsica's diverse landscape is home to many natural canyons that are ideal for families and beginners to explore. Organised tours take groups to canyons such as the Richiusa at Bocognano, as well as lesser-known canyons throughout the island. These canyons offer an exciting and unique way to experience Corsica's natural beauty. One company offering guided excursions is Canyon Corse.

Catenacciu Procession

Once known for its notorious banditry and rival gangs, the scenic town of Sartène has long left the grim of its past behind. However, it still maintains the historic tradition of reenacting Jesus' journey to Calvary on Good Friday each year. The town's church of St Mary displays the 35-kilogram cross and 17-kilogram chain used in the reenactment, preserving this important aspect of its history.

Filitosa

The megalithic archaeological site of Filitosa is known for its curious menhirs, with detail of facial features and body outlines carved into them. The earliest artefacts dug up here date back to 3300 BC (the menhirs are estimated to have been erected around 1500 BC). There are a small museum and a thousand-year-old olive tree on site.

Lavezzi Islands

The uninhabited Lavezzi islands off the coast of Corsica are one of its must-visit natural gems, accessible by a quick boat ride from Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio. These islands boast pristine nature and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for snorkelling. Remember to bring your own sun umbrella and plenty of water, as facilities are limited.

Dining

A Nepita (Ajaccio)

In a town often overrun by visitors, A Nepita is one establishment that keeps delivering authentic, high-quality Corsican meals. Fixed menus vary by day and come with a choice of two dishes for each course. Reservations in advance are highly recommended.

Auberge San Ghjuvani (Propriano)

Set in the rolling hills over Propriano, this family-run restaurant affords spectacular views over the Corsican landscape. Choose from an extensive menu of home-style Corsican specialities. Produce is locally sourced, and the running family readily welcomes patrons in person.

L'An Faim (Bonifacio)

Set at the foot of Bonifacio's dramatic Citadel is L'An Faim, an upscale restaurant whose pride lies in its locally-sourced, quality ingredients. Meats such as veal, fish of the day, lobster, and prime fresh vegetables all constitute the bulk of L'An Faim's seasonally changing menu.

La Bodega (Bonifacio)

Despite its very central location, Bonifacio's La Bodega is far from a tourist trap. Dishes served here are honest Corsican classics, with grilled meats flavoured with island herbs and the Bonifacio-style aubergine enjoying particular popularity.

Le 20123 (Ajaccio)

Le 20123 provides a unique dining experience that feels like walking through an ethnography museum exhibition hall. The restaurant's owner has stylized the space to recreate a village square, complete with a water pump and life-size dolls dressed in traditional costumes. The menu features classic Corsican cuisine, sharing plates, and a selection of local wines.

Le Bilboq Chez Jean-Jean (Ajaccio)

Le Bilboq holds somewhat of a legendary status: the restaurant specialises in one thing only — lobster — which comes in extremely generous servings, as part of its signature "spaghettis à la langouste" dish. Payment is in cash only, and reservations are strongly recommended.

Le Piano Chez Toinou (Porticcio)

From the appetizer to the digestif, through the main course and the dessert, everything at Le Piano Chez Toinou is simply divine. The dining experience, although a bit pricey, is definitely worth it as the food is exquisite, homemade, and hearty. Not to mention, the warm and friendly atmosphere with beautiful Corsican music playing in the background.

Le Santana (Sagone)

Located on the west coast of Corsica, Le Santana is a perfect blend of exceptional cuisine and breathtaking views. Situated directly on the beach, it offers patrons a front-row seat to witness the island's spectacular sunsets while enjoying a wide selection of superb fish and seafood dishes.

Cafes

Cafe de La Marine (Porto-Vecchio)

This eatery in Porto-Vecchio offers a range of snacks and meals, with sushi, burgers, and pizza being the standout menu items. The menu also includes a variety of local and international cuisine options, along with delectable desserts. Patrons can enjoy their meal on the outdoor terrace, which provides a stunning view of the marina.

Glacier Pierre Geronimi (Sagone)

Glacier Pierre Geronimi, a renowned Corsican artisanal ice cream maker, is located in a village close to the island's capital. In addition to traditional flavours, the menu offers unique varieties such as anchovy, fresh herbs, and mustard, among others.

L'Eternisula (Zonza)

An unexpected find in the heart of the Corsican highlands, the hip L'Eternisula serves up snacks and desserts worthy of an upcoming neighbourhood in any mainland metropolis. Pizzas, sandwiches, salads, delightful desserts, and ice cream are all options to count upon.

La Minute Moule (Bonifacio)

The attractive, simple concept of La Minute Moule entails a choice of your preferred serving size of mussels (S, M, or XL) and a selection of a sauce–the white wine and cheese "Bonifacienne" comes highly recommended. The (very moderate) price includes a non-alcoholic drink and a serving of french fries.

Le Café de la Plage

This breezy café, restaurant, and beach bar is a great spot any time of day, one that serves everything from breakfasts and cheese/charcuterie platters to full, multi-course dinners. Facilities include beach beds and shaded gazebos, along with a seafront dining area.

Le Grand Café Napoléon (Ajaccio)

Despite being located on one of the capital's main thoroughfares, Le Grand Café Napoléon is a genuine cafe serving up excellent home-cooked meals in its imperious interior. For cake and dessert or an evening cocktail, take a seat outside and indulge in some people-watching.

Bars & Nightlife

B'52 (Bonifacio)

B'52 is the hot spot on Bonifacio's nightlife scene. It hosts resident and international DJs, providing a diverse and exciting musical experience for its patrons. During the day, the bar's comfortable terrace on the port is the perfect place to unwind while sipping on a glass of wine and indulging in homemade tapas. As night falls, the B'52 terrace comes alive, transforming into a festive location renowned for its themed evenings.

La Taverne du Roi (Porto-Vecchio)

Upholding the island's cultural tradition by playing host to frequent performances of traditional Corsican polyphonic music, La Taverne du Roi is the place to go and familiarise oneself with music that originates from the area, and enjoy a pleasant evening in Porto-Vecchio.

Le Cellier de la Caravelle (Bonifacio)

With a unique ambience forged by its setting inside a 13th-century chapel, Le Cellier is an exquisite wine and whiskey bar of the elite variety. The adjacent La Caravelle restaurant serves excellent seafood its catches of the day, and fresh pasta on its elegant outdoor terrace.

Le Glacier de la Place (Porto-Vecchio)

The promise of artisanal ice cream in the heart of Porto-Vecchio draws many to this place during the daytime, while its evening allure lies in the remarkable selection of international beers, cocktails, and spirits on offer and a delightful outdoor terrace to enjoy them on.

Le Point de Vue (Porto-Vecchio)

With a direct view of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio, Hôtel Alcyon's 6th-floor bar is, perhaps, one of the island's most scenic evening drink locations. A professional sommelier is in charge of the wine selection, and Corsican charcuterie plates are a readily available side.

Shopping

Art'Isula (Ajaccio)

The compact boutique stocks a wide variety of unique items made by local artisans, from exquisitely crafted knives to jewellery, figurines, clothing, and various edibles and drinkables–from jams and honey to liquors.

Casa Napoléon (Ajaccio)

Not to be confused with Napoléon's ancestral home, Casa Napoleon is a gourmet grocery store that stocks a wide array of Corsican specialities, from jars of organic jams to olive oils, charcuterie (meats and sausages), tapenade, confectionery, and local organic wines.

Farmers' Market (Ajaccio)

The Ajaccio Farmers' Market takes place daily during the summer, bringing together the best of local producers selling deli foods Corsica is famous for: charcuterie, cheeses, olives and olive oil, tapenade, home-made jams as well as fresh fruit and vegetables.

La Cave Sartenaise (Sartène)

La Cave Sartenaise is a must-visit spot for local delicacies in Sartène. The store offers a wide array of regional products, such as the renowned Corsican charcuterie, different types of cheeses from local farms, tapenade and olive oil, marmalade, jams, and canistrelli biscuits.

La Marge (Ajaccio)

For a jaunt into literary Corsica, check out the La Marge bookshop located in downtown Ajaccio. The shop stocks local and international literature, music, periodicals and various paraphernalia, and occasionally hosts literary readings and events.

La Taillerie du Corail (Porto-Vecchio)

La Taillerie du Corail is a workshop, showroom, and store that features an exquisite collection of coral jewellery, which is a testament to the Masson family's unwavering commitment over the years.

U Cintu (Porticcio)

The number one address for local goodies in Porticcio, U Cintu is a genuine deli run by a welcoming staff. The store carries a variety of Corsican delicacies, including artisanal charcuterie, cheeses, olives, and dried fruits, as well as Italian specialities and wines.

U Stazzu (Ajaccio)

To pick up some of that celebrated Corsican charcuterie, try and make your way to this shop run by the island's best charcutier — once also named best in all of France. There are multiple varieties of meats to choose from, as well as other deli items sourced from small independent producers from across Corsica.

Tourist Information

Best Time to Visit

Peak tourist season in Corsica falls in the months of July and August when the weather is hottest. Late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October) are much more pleasant in terms of weather, and better fit for hiking and active outdoor pursuits.

Passport/Visa

France can be visited visa-free for up to 90 days by citizens of Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia, Israel, UAE and most countries in America. If you are unsure whether or not you need to apply for a visa, we recommend contacting the embassy or consulate in your country. International (non-Schengen) travellers need a passport that is valid for at least 3 months after the end of their intended trip in order to enter the Schengen zone. Citizens of Schengen countries can travel without a passport but must have a valid ID with them during their stay.

Airports

Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA), previously known as Campo dell'Oro Airport, serves as the main air transportation hub for the island, situated just 5 kilometres from Corsica's capital city of Ajaccio. This airport is serviced by numerous airlines, offering connections to various destinations on mainland France and seasonal routes to cities all across Europe. Travellers can use a shuttle bus to travel between Ajaccio Airport and the city centre. Line 8 travels from Ajaccio Airport to the Railway Station located in the city centre, with a total travel time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Note that schedules differ during the summer and winter seasons. During the summer, buses operate every 30 minutes from 5:20am to 11:20pm. In contrast, during the winter, buses run from 6:30am to 11:30pm, approximately every hour. Another bus, number 12, departs from the P+R Campo dell’Oro bus stop (a 15-minute walk from the airport) and is the absolute cheapest option. Official taxis are readily available at the airport. Located 3 kilometres northwest of Figari and 25 kilometres southwest of Porto-Vecchio, the Figari–Sud Corse Airport (FSC) serves the far south of the island. Most flight connections are seasonal. Taxis are available upon arrival, but a pre-arranged shuttle is the most reasonable means of transport. There is a bus service from the airport to Porto-Vecchio, timetables change depending on the season.

Public Transport

It is notoriously difficult to keep track of Corsican public bus schedules, as these may change without notice or not always be reliable. There is, however, a frequently updated website containing all available information on island transport. There are also three railroad routes on Corsica, one of which connects the capital of Ajaccio to inland Corte.

Taxi

There are multiple companies that operate all across the island. Here are a few: Taxi Yellow Cab Corsica (Ajaccio) +33 6 74 62 63 68 Taxi Porto Vecchio +33 6 86 73 97 80 Ajaccio Radio Taxis +33 4 95 10 19 01

Electricity

230 Volts, 50 Hertz

Ferry

Ferries run from Nice, Marseille, and Toulon to Ajaccio, Propriano and Porto-Vecchio (along with several destinations in the island's north). There's also a ferry service from nearby Sardinia (Italy) to Bonifacio.

Pharmacy

There are multiple pharmacies in larger settlements. Most pharmacies are open from 8:30 am until around 7 pm, with a lunch break around noon. Find a "pharmacie de garde" (on-duty pharmacy) if you need to get your prescription filled outside these hours.

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