Looking for the best day trips from Ajaccio? Corsica’s capital is an excellent base for exploring the island beyond the city, with beautiful beaches, dramatic coastal scenery, mountain trails and fascinating historic sites all within reach.
In this guide, I list 11 day trips from Ajaccio worth adding to your itinerary, with practical tips on how to get there, how much time you’ll need and what to expect. You’ll find options for different interests and travel preferences that will suit first-time visitors, families with children, beach lovers and hikers, including ideas for excursions you can take without a car.
> For more inspiration, read my dedicated guide to Ajaccio. You may also enjoy the article about Ajaccio’s best beaches.
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BEST DAY TRIPS FROM AJACCIO AT A GLANCE
| DAY TRIP | BEST FOR | BOOK TOURS & TICKETS |
| Sanguinaires Islands | Boat trip & swimming | Iles Sanguinaires cruise |
| Calanches de Piana & Scandola | Iconic coastal scenery | Calanches & Scandola tour |
| La Rive Sud beaches | Beach day | Cupabia Beach boat trip |
| A Cupulatta Turtle Sanctuary | Wildlife | Skip-the-line tickets |
| Bonifacio & Lavezzi Islands | Boat trip & sightseeing | Bonifacio & Lavezzi boat trip |
| Cascades des Anglais | Easy hike & river pools | – |
| Tolla Lake | Paddling & nature | – |
| Manganello Valley | Hiking & river pools | – |
| Filitosa Prehistoric Site | History & culture | – |
| Richiusa Canyon | Canyoning & adventure | Richiusa Canyon tour |
| Capo di Muro Trail | Coastal hiking | – |
WHICH DAY TRIP FROM AJACCIO IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
- For your first trip to Corsica – Calanques de Piana & Scandola Nature Reserve
- For a beach day – La Rive Sud Coast
- For a boat trip – Sanguinaires Islands
- For a full-day excursion – Bonifacio & Lavezzi Islands boat trip
- For families with children – A Cupulatta Turtle Sanctuary or Cascades des Anglais
- For hiking – Manganello Valley or Capo di Muro Trail
- For adventure – Richiusa Canyon
- For history – Filitosa Prehistoric Site
- For a romantic cruise – Sanguinaires Islands cruise
- For peace and nature – Manganello Valley, Tolla Lake or Capo di Muro Trail
- For a trip without a car – Sanguinaires Islands cruise, Calanches de Piana & Scandola boat tour or Bonifacio & Lavezzi boat trip
PLANNING A TRIP TO CORSICA? CHECK OUT THESE RESOURCES!
11 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM AJACCIO
1. TAKE A BOAT TRIP TO SANGUINAIRES ISLANDS
Best for: Couples, families and anyone visiting Ajaccio for the first time Time needed: Half day or evening Getting there: Boat tour
A boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires is one of the best local attractions easily accessible from the Ajaccio marina. This rugged red granite archipelago guards the entrance to the Gulf of Ajaccio, embodying the raw beauty of Corsica’s unspoilt Mediterranean scenery.
Perfect for families, daytime cruises provide opportunities to snorkel in turquoise waters, spot dolphins and explore wildlife, with more than 150 species of native flora and fauna. On Mezzo Mare, the largest islet, you can also discover a 16th-century Genoese tower, the Sanguinaires Lighthouse and a semaphore station.
For a more romantic experience, choose an evening cruise. As the sun sets, the islands dazzle in shades of gold and red, creating a striking backdrop of rugged rocks against the fiery horizon. Tours typically last between two and four hours, with time for a swim and an aperitif featuring local wine, cheese and charcuterie.
> Read my detailed guide to visiting Sanguinaires Islands
BEST BOAT TRIPS TO ILES SANGUINAIRES
- Sunset boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with wine tasting and live music
- Sunset boat tour to Iles Sanguinaires with a stop on the island and an aperitif
- Sunset boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with a stopover on the island and an appetiser
- Day or afternoon boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with a stop on the island
2. EXPLORE CALANCHES DE PIANA AND SCANDOLA NATURE RESERVE
Best for: First-time visitors and anyone who wants to see Corsica’s most spectacular coastline Time needed: Full day Getting there: Car/boat tour
A boat trip to Calanches de Piana and Scandola Nature Reserve is a must for first-time visitors to Corsica staying in the Ajaccio region. Located in the Gulf of Porto, this UNESCO-listed coastline is famed for its immense red porphyry cliffs, sculpted rock formations and pure, deep-blue Mediterranean waters.
You can explore the Calanches by car, following a winding coastal road through the cliffs high above the sea. It is one of Corsica’s most scenic drives with breathtaking views around every bend. For a different perspective, join a boat excursion from Ajaccio and admire the crimson rocks and hidden coves from the water.
Further north, the Scandola Nature Reserve protects around 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of sea, a fragile ecosystem that shelters rare flora and fauna species. Weathered rock faces, exceptionally clear sea and abundant marine and terrestrial life make it one of Corsica’s most remarkable natural sites. On the edge of the reserve is Girolata, an isolated fishing village accessible only by sea or on foot.
BEST BOAT TRIPS TO CALANCHES DE PIANA AND SCANDOLA FROM AJACCIO
- Capo Rosso, Scandola Reserve, and Girolata boat tour with an appetiser. A full-day tour to Capo Rosso and Scandola with a stopover in Girolata. Includes a swimming break and a light snack of local produce and wine.
- Scandola and Calanches de Piana day trip. A comprehensive 8-hour sea excursion to the UNESCO-listed sites with a stop in Girolata and a swim at Capo Rosso. Departures from Ajaccio or Porticcio.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata cruise. A full-day tour to the Scandola Reserve with a 2-hour stopover in Girolata aboard a comfortable, larger vessel.
3. SPEND A DAY ON THE BEACHES OF RIVE SUD
Best for: Beach lovers and families Time needed: Full day Getting there: Car, sea shuttle from the Ajaccio port, seasonal beach bus serving Rive Sud, boat tour
Ajaccio has numerous beautiful beaches, but its coastal paradise continues beyond the town. Along the scenic Rive Sud, the southern shore of the Gulf of Ajaccio, you will find some of the finest stretches of sand on the island. Plage de Poriccio, backed by a vibrant, family-friendly seaside resort, is an ideal place to enjoy watersports with plenty of space to spread out your towel. Nearby restaurants serve tasty meals, cocktails and ice-cream. Further south, the pretty coves around the Isolella peninsula and Plage de Ruppione offer a quieter setting for those seeking a little more seclusion.
Plage de Mare E Sole, also known as Plage de Verghia, is the region’s highlight. Its powder-soft, silver sand and shallow turquoise waters provide a dreamy backdrop to laid-back beach relaxation. The southernmost Plage de Portigliolo is another lovely spot to unwind away from the busier areas.
GETTING THERE
Getting there by car will allow you to explore the coast at your own pace. Alternatively, you can take a sea shuttle from Ajaccio port to Porticcio, a journey of around 20 minutes (https://porticc.io/transports/bouger/navette-porticcio-ajaccio/), and use the seasonal beach bus serving the bay’s south shore (https://porticc.io/transports/bouger/bus-rive-sud/).
BOOK A COASTAL SPEEDBOAT TOUR
For the most memorable way to explore Rive Sud, book a speedboat trip to Cupabia Beach from Porticcio. This popular excursion takes you to some of the shore’s best beaches and hidden corners, with final stops at Plage de Cupabia, one of my three favourite beaches in Corsica, and Cala d’Orzu. Expect turquoise waters, unspoilt coastal scenery and plenty of opportunities to swim along the way. Appetisers with wine are included.
4. VISIT THE A CUPULTTA TURTLE SANCTUARY
Best for: Families and animal lovers Time needed: Half day Getting there: Car/train (Carbuccia station- a stop on demand)/taxi
Located only 30 minutes from Ajaccio, A Cupulatta is a unique turtle and tortoise sanctuary dedicated to breeding, studying and protecting these fascinating animals. Home to around 2000 specimens representing 130 species, including giant tortoises from the Galapagos and Seychelles, the park is a favourite among children and adults alike.
Spread across two hectares, it provides natural habitats, a veterinary clinic and a nursery where young turtles are cared for. There is also a snack bar with shaded tables and a gift shop. The visit takes around two hours, and tickets can be booked online.
GETTING THERE
The easiest way to reach A Cupulatta is by car, as public transport options are limited. You can also take a train from Ajaccio and get off at Carbuccia station (stop available on request). From there, the park is around a 20-minute walk. Taxis are another option, although fares are expensive in Corsica.
USEFUL TIP – Near Pont de Carbuccia is a pleasant river swimming spot with flat sandy banks. However, check for the presence of an information notice near the bridge before swimming, as local authorities indicate when water conditions are unsuitable. You will find more natural swimming pools in my Corsica river guide.
5. DISCOVER BONIFACIO AND LAVEZZI ISLANDS BY BOAT
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, families and beach lovers Time needed: Full day Getting there: Boat trip
If you would rather avoid the long drive to the island’s southern tip or you are visiting Ajaccio without a car, consider a full-day boat excursion to Bonifacio and Lavezzi Islands. It’s a convenient way to discover two of southern Corsica’s most celebrated destinations in a single trip.
Perched atop towering limestone cliffs, the medieval town of Bonifacio is one of the island’s iconic sights. Apart from its dramatic setting, this historic citadel offers winding alleyways, fascinating landmarks and a lively Mediterranean vibe. Sweeping views across the Strait of Bonifacio towards Sardinia are truly arresting, but seeing the town from the sea leaves the most unforgettable memories.
Just offshore, the protected Iles Lavezzi form a beautiful archipelago of wild, boulder-strewn islets surrounded by crystal-clear aquamarine waters. Their idyllic beaches are perfect for swimming and snorkelling, while scenic footpaths wind through unspoilt Mediterranean vegetation. Find more details and book tickets for this boat trip here.
Another popular option suited to those who appreciate culture and sightseeing is a day cruise to Bonifacio with four hours of free time to explore the famous clifftop town at your own pace.
>Find other attractions in my Bonifacio guide and the article about Iles Lavezzi
6. WALK TO CASCADES DES ANGLAIS AT VIZZAVONA
Best for: Nature lovers, families and hikers Time needed: Half day Getting there: Car/train (Vizzavona station)
For a taste of Corsica’s majestic mountain scenery, head inland to Vizzavona Pass, where an easy, family-friendly walk, starting at an altitude of 1163 meters, leads to Cascades des Anglais. These beautiful waterfalls spill down the rocks into emerald pools at the foot of Monte d’Oro, surrounded by old forests. It’s a great, refreshing escape on hot summer days when the coastal heat becomes too much to bear.
The trailhead is easily accessible from the T20 road linking Ajaccio and Bastia, opposite Auberge Muntagnera. The round-trip walk is around 3 kilometres long, with an elevation gain of approximately 100 metres, making it suitable for most visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.
Bring water, snacks and comfortable shoes (and ideally river footwear) with good grip to aid you on wet and rocky terrain. You can cool off in the river pools and enjoy a picnic by the water, in the shade of pine trees.
ADVENTURE PARK FOR KIDS
Families with children can make a full day of this mountain outing by combining the Cascades des Anglais hike with a visit to Parc Aventure Vizzavona, an adventure park located near the trailhead. With forest walks, waterfalls and outdoor activities, it’s a fun way to discover a different side of Corsica.
GETTING TO VIZZAVONA BY TRAIN
If you’re travelling from Ajaccio by train, get off at the Vizzavona station and follow the scenic trail alongside the river, tracing a section of the famous GR20 route. The walk to the waterfalls is around 3.2 kilometres long.
MY ADVICE – Don’t miss out on exploring Vizzavona trails if you are visiting Corsica in September or October. With autumn colours at their most vivid and mild temperatures ideal for walking, it’s one of the best times to experience the beauty of the island’s forests.
7. PADDLE ON TOLLA LAKE
Best for: Active travellers, families and nature lovers Time needed: Full day Getting there: Car
Lac de Tolla is a haven for nature lovers, with still, emerald-green waters, lush vegetation and a dramatic mountain backdrop. This fjord-like man-made reservoir created by a dam has a peaceful setting ideal for a relaxing day outdoors. You can enjoy kayaking or paddling across the lake, surrounded by beautiful, wild scenery. A small nautical centre set on the lakeshore (https://www.centre-nautique-de-tolla.fr) rents equipment from June to September, while a simple seasonal snack hut offers refreshments and light meals.
Located only 30 kilometres from Ajaccio, the lake takes almost an hour to reach by car. The journey is part of the experience, following the stunning Prunelli Gorge through a winding mountain road.
SCENIC DRIVE
You can easily spend a full day enjoying Tolla, or continue your adventure with a scenic drive towards the Val d’Ese ski station, a great place for mountain walks and taking in the sweeping views. Another option is to follow the D27 from Bastelica through Col de Scalella to Bocognano, before returning to Ajaccio.
USEFUL TIP – If you are visiting in spring, make time for Cascade de la Mariée (on D27), an impressive waterfall that resembles a bridal veil as it tumbles down the rock face. Water levels drop considerably in summer and autumn, though.
8. HIKE IN THE MANGANELLO VALLEY
Best for: Hikers, nature lovers and those who seek tranquility Time needed: Full day Getting there: Car/train (Tattone station- a stop on demand)
I’ve included Manganello Valley in my list of Corsica’s 15 hidden gems for a reason. Usually overlooked by visitors, it’s an enchanting place where you’ll experience the island wonderfully intact.
Located near Vivario, north of Vizzavona, this peaceful valley is crossed by a crystalline river winding through pine and chestnut forests, beneath the elegant summit of Monte d’Oro. A trail follows the torrent upstream, passing pretty natural pools where you can stop for a swim or simply picnic by the water. Eventually, you’ll reach the Meli waterfall and the picturesque wooden footbridge, Passerelle de Tolla, where the trail joins the GR20.
The trail begins at the car park before the village of Canaglia, with a return distance of around 10 km. You can also arrive by train from Ajaccio, getting off at the Tattone station, but this adds another 6 kilometres to the walk, making it a better option for more experienced hikers.
PRACTICAL TIP – The hike is fairly easy, but the terrain becomes very stony at times, as is often the case on the Corsican trails. Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip to keep your footing secure.
9. VISIT THE FILITOSA PREHISTORIC SITE
Best for: Families, couples and culture enthusiasts Time needed: Half day Getting there: Car
Corsica is dotted with fascinating prehistoric sites, the most famous being the UNESCO World Heritage List-inscribed Filitosa. Just over an hour’s drive from Ajaccio, it makes for an interesting day trip, combining ancient history with a beautiful rural setting.
Dating back thousands of years, this remarkable megalithic complex is best known for its mysterious stone statues carved in human form. Discovered in 1946, the remains of an ancient settlement and its striking anthropomorphic sculptures provide a glimpse into Corsica’s most distant past. There’s also a museum on site displaying a collection of prehistoric artefacts.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN THE AREA
The surrounding countryside adds to the appeal, with old olive trees, rolling pastures and the quiet charm of the Gulf of Valinco. Allow around 1-2 hours to explore Filitosa, then continue to the nearby Porto Pollo, a laid-back seaside village with a lovely sandy beach and a few restaurants and ice cream parlours. If you fancy a swim in a more unspoilt setting, head to Cupabia Beach, where turquoise water and a beautiful natural backdrop make it one of the region’s finest spots for a relaxing afternoon.
10. GO CANYONING IN THE RICHIUSA CANYON
Best for: Active travellers and nature lovers Time needed: Half day Getting there: Car
For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Richiusa Canyon is a fantastic place to experience Corsica’s wild side. Located around 45 minutes from Ajaccio, it offers a thrilling descent down the river gorge dotted with emerald pools, hidden caves, cascading waterfalls and dramatic rocks.
Canyoning is an exciting multi-disciplinary activity that involves slides, jumps and abseiling in the midst of untamed scenery. The Richiusa tour is suitable for beginners who can swim, making it a great introduction to the sport, but children need to be at least 9 years old.
The water descent lasts two hours, but with the approach walk and preparation, you will need half a day to enjoy this fun adventure. Certified guides lead the way, explain the techniques and provide the necessary equipment, including wetsuits, helmets, harnesses and ropes. You can make a reservation online, but be sure to diligently read all the requirements.
11. HIKE THE CAPO DI MURO TRAIL
Best for: Hikers, nature lovers and those anyone looking for a quiet coastal walk Time needed: Half day Getting there: Car
To escape Ajaccio’s crowds, explore the Capo di Muro trail, which winds along a rugged peninsula on the southern side of the Gulf of Ajaccio. Here, you will have wild Mediterranean scenery, rocky coves and lovely sea views, virtually to yourself.
The 9-kilometre loop has around 180 metres of elevation gain and several highlights along the way. Near the start, you’ll pass a historic 16th-century Genoese watchtower before the trail descends towards a rocky cove, where a statue of the Madonna and a small chapel overlook the sea. From here, the path follows the scenic headland before looping back to the starting point.
Allow around 3-4 hours to complete the hike. Although the elevation gain is modest and the trail is manageable for most reasonably fit walkers, the uneven terrain and the final uphill section can make it more demanding than expected. Bring food, water, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes. Finish your day with a swim at one of the nearby beaches.
>Read my detailed guide to the Capo di Muro hike
WHICH DAY TRIPS FROM AJACCIO CAN YOU DO WITHOUT A CAR?
EASY WITHOUT A CAR
POSSIBLE WITHOUT A CAR BUT LESS CONVENIENT
- Some Rive Sud beaches
- A Cupulatta Turtle Sanctuary
- Cascades des Anglais walk
- Manganello Valley hike
WHAT IS THE BEST DAY TRIP FROM AJACCIO?
The best day trip from Ajaccio for first-time visitors is the Calanques de Piana and Scandola Nature Reserve tour, either by car or on a scenic cruise. The Sanguinaires Islands are ideal for a shorter boat trip. For beaches, head to La Rive Sud, whereas Bonifacio and the Lavezzi Islands sea tour make an ideal full-day excursion for seeing the best of south Corsica. Nature lovers can venture into the mountains around the Vizzavona pass, where hiking trails to Cascades des Anglais and Manganello Valley offer easy access to unspoilt scenery and emerald river pools. A Cupulatta is a must-visit for kids.
TRAVELLER’S COMPANION FOR A TRIP TO CORSICA – GRAB YOUR EBOOK!
33 Natural Pools and Waterfalls in Corsica
Descriptions – Directions – Coordinates
WHERE TO STAY IN AJACCIO
- Hotel Les Mouettes (€€€)
- Cala di Sole Ajaccio (€€)
- Hotel San Carlu Citadelle (€)
- Hotel Pozzo di Borgo (€€)
- Ibis Styles Ajaccio Napoleon (€)
- Best Western Plus Ajaccio Amirauté (€)
- Hotel La Pinede (€)
>Read more in a dedicated post: Best hotels in Ajaccio – where to stay in Corsica’s capital
AJACCIO HOTELS MAP SEARCH
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PLANNING A TRIP TO CORSICA? CHECK OUT THESE RESOURCES!
Liability Disclaimer
All outdoor activities are carried out at your own risk. Always plan ahead and be cautious when preparing for your hikes. The author of this blog cannot be held responsible in the event of an accident, death, loss, personal injury, or any other inconvenience or damage that may be sustained by anyone as a result of the use of any information contained on this website.
