Ajaccio, Corsica’s vibrant capital city is a popular travel destination among day visitors and cruise passengers from ships docking in the port for a Mediterranean stopover.
Welcoming, colorful, steeped in history and tradition, this famous Napoleonic town brims with exciting activities and attractions that ensure an unforgettable holiday experience.
Despite being one of the island’s top locations for a longer visit, Ajaccio and its vicinity may also be explored in just one day. Rich in a variety of interesting recreation opportunities, it offers world-renowned cultural and religious sights, awe-inspiring natural landmarks, unique gastronomy, and thrilling outdoor pursuits.
In this article, I present some of the most interesting things to do and see in Cité Impériale that will grant you an immersive, fun-filled day and lasting vacation memories. Continue reading to get inspired and plan your perfect itinerary in Corsica’s captivating capital.
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BEST THINGS TO DO IN AJACCIO IN ONE DAY – IN SHORT
- Tour of historic monuments and cultural sights
- Sampling the local cuisine
- Shopping for unique Corsican souvenirs
- Boat trips to iconic natural landmarks
- Beach leisure and water activities
- Sports and outdoor pursuits in Mediterranean nature
- Excursions to mountain rivers inland from Ajaccio
- Family-friendly day trips near the capital city
Keep reading for detailed propositions of Ajaccio’s top things to see and do.
AJACCIO – ESSENTIAL FACTS
- Ajaccio is the capital city of Corsica and the largest town on the island.
- This bustling Mediterranean port is famous for being the birthplace of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1769.
- Its history encompasses a long period of Genoese rule and Corsican patriots-led Wars of Independence, followed by the Treaty of Versailles in 1764 when France finally acquired the island.
- Located on Corsica’s west shores, the Napoleonic town enjoys a magical setting in a scenic bay guarded by a rocky Punta della Parata and Iles Sanguinaires. Ajaccio’s coastline is dotted with fabulous turquoise-water beaches surrounded with maquis, heavily-scented endemic scrubland.
- Rich in the turbulent historic legacy, Ajaccio is home to fascinating museums, cultural monuments, and religious sights whereas Bonaparte’s regnant presence infuses elegant squares and alleyways with his proud statues gracing the town’s central spots.
- Despite being a buzzing Mediterranean resort and an important port town, Corsica’s capital city has managed to escape the trappings of mass tourism and preserve its unique, authentic charm.
- Known for its warm hospitality, generosity, and lively atmosphere, Ajaccio embodies the Corsican spirit and a laid-back Mediterranean way of life.
BEST TIME TO VISIT AJACCIO
Corsica’s thriving capital city may be explored throughout the year, although the best period to visit Ajaccio is the shoulder season of spring and autumn.
SPRING
From late April to June, temperatures remain balmy but not too hot ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Sea water is still cool and refreshing but swimming is definitely possible. In May, the endemic maquis erupts in a colorful kaleidoscope of blooming flowers infusing the island with their scented aromas. Most importantly, lighter crowds and long days will allow you to make the most of your precious time in Corsica.
AUTUMN
Similarly, September is one of the best months to explore the city. Plane trees lining the boulevards start to change colour gleaming with golden reflexes while streets become more peaceful inviting to stroll around Ajaccio’s enchanting corners. Water is at its warmest granting comfortable bathing in sublime beaches of the region. On the other hand, October sees some rainy days and lower temperatures but is a great month for hiking and outdoor activities.
SUMMER
July and August are peak season months in Corsica when prices soar and tourists flock in to enjoy the island’s numerous attractions. Although day temperatures may exceed 30°C, the ever-present breeze cooling the coastal areas helps to bear the heat. Ajaccio’s welcoming restaurants and bars fill up late into the night transforming the town into a vibrating summer resort.
WINTER
The Napoleonic city may also be viewed in winter when travelers desert its shores leaving the locals to go about their everyday matters. The Christmas time is very special in Corsica’s capital, with the season’s bright decorations contrasting intensely blue skies and transparent waters of the Mediterranean. The downside is that some of Ajaccio’s services shut down for winter limiting tour and excursion opportunities.
GETTING AROUND AJACCIO
IS AJACCIO WALKABLE ?
Exploring Ajaccio on foot is easy as the town is walkable with short distances between its main attractions. The port is located centrally on Quai L’Herminier, less than 500 meters from Place Foch, the city’s main square. Within a few minutes, you can also reach the Old Town, the Citadel, and Ajaccio’s beautiful town beach Plage de Saint-François.
BUSES
You may see Ajaccio from an open-top bus on a guided tour of the Imperial Town with a stop at Pointe de la Parata for incredible views of Iles Sanguinaires. Here you can find more details and book your tickets.
Public city buses operate within the Ajaccio agglomeration offering transfers to various city destinations. A clear and intuitive website https://mobilite.muvitarra.fr/plans-lignes/ provides comprehensive information on itineraries, tariffs, and timetables.
To get to the Ajaccio airport located 6 km east of the city port take bus nr 8 running hourly from the town’s train station (Gare CFC) or bus nr 12 departing from the stop P+R Campo dell’Oro.
Long-distance buses serving the Corsican towns depart from Gare Routière at 17 Boulevard Sampiero next to the ferry port. To learn more consult the official site www.corsicabus.org/busAjaccio.
FREE ELECTRIC MINIBUS
Electric mobility services offered by Aiaccina and Citadina operate in two city circuits – Citadina connects the Jardins de l’Empereur district to the CFC station via Pietrina and Place Abatucci while Aiaccina follows two routes focused on the main sectors of the historic center of Ajaccio. Electric mini buses depart every 15-20 minutes, find more information regarding timetables online https://www.ca-ajaccien.corsica/aiaccina/.
LE PETIT TRAIN
Hopping on the Ajaccio Little Train offers a comfortable and easy way to visit the city. You have a choice of two circuits with commentary available in 8 languages. The city tour takes 45 minutes passing through the main points of interest in town with a 15-minute stop at the Napoleon Cave where the Emperor liked to meditate. The Islands Sanguinaires tour lasts 1 h 45 min and incorporates two stops, at the Napoleon Cave and Punat della Parata for amazing views of the magical Iles Sanguinaire Archipelago. The train departs from Place Foch, tickets cost from €4-€12 and may be purchased online https://www.petit-train-ajaccio.com/.
TRAIN
Daily train connections serve Bastia via Corte, Calvi, and Mezzana. Gare d’Ajaccio, the town’s railway station is located 500 m north of the ferry terminal on Boulevard Sampiero. Information on tariffs and departure times is available online at cf-corse.corsica.
TAXIS
For comfort, speed, and flexibility in exploring distant corners of Ajaccio and its region, you may hire a taxi. Fares in Corsica are high going up to €50 for a 20 km journey. It is advisable to confirm the tariff when booking your vehicle to avoid an unpleasant surprise. Some of the popular taxi companies in Ajaccio include Allo Taxi Ajaccio https://www.allo-taxis-ajaccio.com/, Ajaccio Happy Taxi 0769802981, or Ajaccio Radio Taxis https://www.taxis-ajaccio.fr/. Other operators may be found online when searching the term ‘taxi Ajaccio’.
CAR HIRE
Day visitors and cruise ship passengers who wish to visit Ajaccio and the surrounding regions according to their own timetable can hire a driver or even an English-speaking tour guide with pickup at the hotel or in the city port. Private tours take up to 8 hours and may be booked here.
If you decide to rent a car from one of the operators servicing Corsica you should make your reservation in advance due to the skyrocketing demand in the peak season. The cost depends on the dates, the type of car, the pick-up location, and the age of the driver but you may expect to pay between €60-€150 per day in low season and €90-€250 in July and August.
Car rentals closest to the port are Avis, E. Leclerc Location, and Paulucciu for scooters.
PARKING
Ajaccio’s busy streets incorporate a one-way traffic system where parking is not just tricky to find but it is also expensive. To leave your vehicle head to public car parks along Quai L’Herminier, Boulevard Sampiero, or to an underground Q-Park on Place du Général De Gaulle. Free parking spaces may be available further west along the Route des Iles Sanguinaires where a public bus conveniently provides a lift back to the city center.
IS AJACCIO SAFE ?
With its welcoming community and a low crime rate, Ajaccio is a safe destination for travelers. In fact, according to an annual ranking of the safest French municipalities presented in Le Parisien-Aujourd’hui in 2024, Corsica’s capital comes up in third position. The research is based on data from the Ministry of the Interior from the Ministerial Statistical Service for Internal Security (SSMSI).
While it is always advisable to look out for your personal belongings when strolling the city’s busy streets, you will appreciate Ajaccio’s friendly atmosphere and the freedom to comfortably explore its charming alleys even at night.
HIRE A DRIVER TO VISIT THE AJACCIO REGION
- Cruise ship passengers and other visitors looking to enjoy their custom day itinerary around Ajaccio and the surrounding regions may hire a driver or even upgrade to include a private tour guide. Guests are welcome to choose their preferred time and place of departure. Private tours last for up to 8 hours and are also offered in English. Click here to learn more and make an early reservation.
16 BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN AJACCIO IN ONE DAY
1. STROLL IN THE OLD TOWN
Indulge in the authentic charm of Ajaccio’s Old Town nestled behind the town’s prominent Citadel. Pastel-coloured buildings, shaded squares, and narrow alleyways enclosed by beautiful facades offer a rare glimpse into the capital’s turbulent history. You can start your stroll at Place Foch and continue via Rue Bonaparte towards the Cathedrale. Stop at number 17 where you may admire Palazzu Pozzo di Borgo, a 4-star hotel with an outstanding marble portal. It is a former mansion of the family of Charles André Pozzo di Borgo, Napoleon’s fierce enemy.
2. STOP AT PLACE FOCH
The palm-lined promenade descending towards the seafront is Ajaccio’s central point and one of the town’s most representative spots. Dominated by an imposing white-marble statue of Napoleon it is also home to La Madonuccia, Ajaccio’s patron saint, and Salon Napoléonien housing Napoleon’s memorabilia in the city Town Hall. Bustling restaurants and cafés spill out into the street inviting visitors for a relaxing break.
3. VISIT MAISON BONAPARTE
The Ochre-hued building situated at Rue Saint-Charles is the birthplace of the famous Emperor who on 15th August 1769 came to this world as the second son of Carlo Maria Buonaparte and Maria Letizia Ramolino. Today, his family home serves as a museum where you may learn fascinating facts about Napoleon’s life, explore interesting memorabilia, and walk through the rooms of his ancestral residence. A fascinating journey back in time to the end of the 18th century.
Throughout summer the museum is open every day, it shuts on Mondays outside of the season. Located in the old town, it is only a short walk away from the port. If you travel on Muvistrada bus service, take lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7 with the nearest stop – Cathedral.
4. EXPLORE HISTORY AT MUSEE FESCH
Musée Fesch housed within the 19th century Palais on a pedestrian street Rue Cardinal-Fesch exhibits an extraordinary exposition of fine arts. Named after Napoleon’s step-uncle the gallery is famous for one of France’s most exquisite collections of Italian masters including Botticelli, Cosmé Tura, and Giovanni Bellini. Over 350 paintings decorate walls on four levels. The adjacent Bibliothèque Municipale boasts an impressive selection of rare antique books. To view the enchanting works of art, allow 1h30min for your visit.
5. DISCOVER CHAPELLE IMPÉRIALE
Built under the Second Empire between 1857 and 1859 from Saint Florent limestone, the chapel houses the tombs of Cardinal Fesch, Charles and Laetitia Bonaparte, Napoleon’s parents, and other members of the imperial family. As part of Palais Fesch, it is classified as a historic monument, blessed on 9 September 1860.
6. ADMIRE THE CATHEDRAL OF AJACCIO
Ajaccio’s main place of worship, the Baroque Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta located at Rue Forcioli-Conti near Maison Bonaparte was built in 1582. Today it is the seat of the city’s bishop who also serves as Cardinal named by Pope Francis. The church is famous for being the Emperor’s place of baptism in 1771. The polychrome marble high altar was donated by his sister in 1809.
7. SHOP AT THE AJACCIO MARKET
Marché Central on Place Foch is the place to be if you wish to soak up Ajaccio’s sparkling ambiance while discovering some of the best gastronomic products on the island. Next to Corsica’s famous cheeses and cold meats, you will find mouth-watering pastries, local honey, and jams. On the weekends, the Ajaccians flock in to buy fresh fruit and vegetables to prepare Sunday meals.
The market is open between 7 am – 1 pm from Tuesday to Sunday with Mondays also available during summer. The covered fish and seafood hall offers local specialties caught in the morning by the fishermen.
8. ENJOY LUNCH ON THE PORT SEAFRONT
Lunch on the Ajaccio waterfront is an unforgettable al fresco dining experience in a picture-perfect setting. A charming Mediterranean marina, brightly-coloured elegant buildings, glowing light reflected in the transparent sea waters, but most of all, a joyful and radiant atmosphere reigning among the Ajaccians make a simple meal a memorable holiday feast. The town’s restaurants serve not only traditional Corsican dishes but also typical seaside specialties with fresh fish and seafood present on the menu. If you prefer a more intimate culinary adventure you may venture into narrow old town alleys where restaurant tables cling to towering facades of historic buildings.
Further on you will find a list of some of the best restaurants and brasseries in the city.
9. TASTE THE BEST ICE CREAM IN THE CITY
The artisanal ice cream maker Glacier Neri is considered the best parlor in Ajaccio. Faithful local customers, as well as visiting tourists, appreciate rich, balanced flavours and a smooth texture. Neri chocolate and lemon sorbets are among the firm favourites but you will not go wrong with any of the offered choices. The glacier is located at 19-17 Bd Madame Mère, a 20-minute walk from the port.
10. GO ON AN OPEN-BUS CITY TOUR
View Ajaccio from an open-top bus on a guided tour of the Imperial Town with a stop at Pointe de la Parata where you can admire Iles Sanguinaires. The activity lasts 1.5h with a commentary available in 5 languages. Ticket prices start at €12 and may be booked here.
11. TRY LOCAL WINE
Taste mouth-watering AOC wines from the granitic Ajaccio region stretching across western Corsica. The majority of local production comprises red and rose wines made from the principal grape variety of the region- Sciaccarellu. The light-coloured reds are well-structured yet subtle, revealing aromas of red fruit and spice while Vermentino is used to produce a refreshing white. The Ajaccio roses are a summer drink par excellence- fresh, aromatic with a crisp, bright taste, a perfect aperitif.
Domaine Comte Peraldi, Clos Alzeto, Clos Ornasca, or Domaine a Paraccia produce exquisite premium wines for a reasonable price. Domaine U Stiliccionu, Domaine de Vaccelli, and Domaine Comte Abbatucci are costly but excel in quality winemaking.
12. HIKE ALONG CHEMIN DES CRETES
Enjoy a 3-4-hour-long scenic walk along Chemin des Cretes from Bois des Anglais to the Sanguinaires. Winding through fragrant maquis above the city the trail offers sublime views of Ajaccio and the bay. In summer carry plenty of water (2 liters) and avoid the midday sun. This hike is rated as easy but make sure you wear comfortable shoes as the path is uneven and stony. To come back you may return via the same route, follow the coastal road along the beach (7.5 km), or take the bus.
13. ENJOY AN E-BIKE EXCURSION
Explore Napoleonic sites and natural attractions of Ajaccio on the Electric Bike to fully immerse yourself in the local culture. A self-guided e-bike tour is available for children and adults above the height of 1m55cm. Closed-toe shoes are required. A map with the points of interest is included in the price of the bicycle. You may book your activity in advance here.
14. VISIT ILES SANGUINAIRES
Discover Iles Sanguinaires, a red granite archipelago situated at the entrance of the Ajaccio Gulf opposite Punta della Parata. The beautiful islands provide a natural habitat for indigenous species of plants, wildlife, or rare birds and are best appreciated at sunset on a boat tour departing from Ajaccio. Foodies can indulge in a wine-tasting and food-sampling experience accompanied by live music. Here you may find more information and book your adventure.
Day boat trips to Iles Sanguinaires incorporate a relaxing stopover on the largest island where visitors may explore its fascinating attractions or snorkel in the azure sea waters. The excursions last from 2 to 3 hours. Find more details here.
Hikers may take bus nr 5 to La Parata to enjoy scenic walks along the coast with unforgettable views and truly magnificent scenery.
15. JOIN A FOOD TOUR
Sample delicious Corsican specialties on an exciting culinary tour of the Imperial City. A local guide will introduce you to fresh, artisanal products and authentic Corsican dishes typical to the region. Tastings last for up to 3 hours and vegetarians are welcome. Click here to find out more and make a reservation.
16. GO TO THE BEACH
Ajaccio’s coastline is dotted with paradisiacal sandy beaches, secluded rocky coves, and idyllic inlets where you may swim, snorkel, jet-ski, dive, or sail. Even in the center of the city, you can find your corner of paradise.
Plage de Saint Francois lies at the foot of the Citadel in Ajaccio’s historic quarter bordered by the palm-lined promenade Boulevard Lantivy. Further west along the shores along the Iles Sanguinaires route is a 350m-long Plage de Trottel, the stunning white-sand turquoise-water Plage de Barbicaja and perfect for families succession of Plages de Santa Lima. The Terre Sacreé beach with views of Punta della Parata is known not just for its amazing panoramas but also for the monument that contains an urn with ashes of soldiers killed in World War I.
On the other side of the town near the airport, a 3-kilometer-long Ricanto beach offers comprehensive facilities including a lifeguard in peak season.
BOAT TOURS DEPARTING FROM AJACCIO
BEST BOAT TRIPS FROM AJACCIO TO SCANDOLA AND CALANCHES DE PIANA
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata boat trip. An 8-hour-long adventure to the coastal scenic site of Scandola. A swimming break at Capu Rossu and a stopover in Girolata are included in the tour.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola and Girolata cruise. A full-day tour to the Scandola Reserve with a 2h stopover in the village of Girolata aboard a comfortable vessel. Other scenic attractions include Capo Rosso and the Calanches.
- Capo Rosso, Scandola Reserve, and Girolata boat tour with an appetizer. A full-day tour to Capo Rosso and Scandola with a stopover in Girolata. During your trip, you will also enjoy a swimming break and a light snack of local produce and wine.
BEST BOAT TRIPS FROM AJACCIO TO BONIFACIO AND ILES LAVEZZI
- Boat trip to Iles Lavezzi and Bonifacio from Ajaccio. Discover the Lavezzi Islands and the nearby clifftop town of Bonifacio on a full-day guided boat trip. Marvel at lagoons, coral reefs, and the caves of the Bouches de Bonifacio reserve. At Plage de Tivella you can enjoy a swimming break before heading back to Ajaccio.
- Boat tour to Bonifacio with a swimming stop at Iles Lavezzi from Ajaccio. Visit Bonifacio, swim in the pristine waters of Iles Lavezzi, sample local wines and meats, and admire magnificent views of southern Corsica. During this full-day trip, you will also stop at the exquisite cove of Roccapina.
BEST BOAT TRIPS FROM AJACCIO TO ILES SANGUINAIRES
- Sunset boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with wine tasting and live music. Enjoy a 3-4-hour long sea adventure to Iles Sanguinaires from Ajaccio at sunset. Indulge in local wines and Corsican gastronomic specialties.
- Sunset boat tour to Iles Sanguinaires with a stop on the island and aperitif. Witness the sunset over the Sanguinaires Islands on this 2.5-hour-long boat trip and savor a delicious Corsican aperitif on board. Discover the island of Mezu Mare during a 1-hour break or go for a dip in the transparent sea waters. Savour a glass of local wine. Departures from Ajaccio or Porticcio.
- Sunset boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with a stopover on the island and wine tasting. Take in the glorious sunset while sampling fantastic Corsican wine and charcuterie. Let the captain entertain you with local stories and legends on your way to the beautiful archipelago. The tour lasts 3 hours and departs from Ajaccio or Porticcio.
- Boat trip to Iles Sanguinaires with a stop on the island. Discover the natural beauty of the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Sanguinaires archipelago on a comfortable 3-hour boat tour departing from Ajaccio or Porticcio. Enjoy a stopover on Mezumare, the main island in the archipelago. Snorkel in the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean.
IMP TIP : small speedboats are not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions. In case of any of the above, choose a larger craft when booking your sea excursion.
10 BEST THINGS TO DO NEAR AJACCIO IN ONE DAY
1. DISCOVER TURTLES FROM AROUND THE WORLD AT A CUPULATTA
Visit Europe’s preeminent center for tortoise and turtle research, breeding, and conservation. A Cupulatta stretches over 2.5 hectares of perfectly adapted natural environment showcasing over 170 species and 3000 specimens from around the world. In the sanctuary, you will find tiny newborns, terrapins, cherry turtles, and even giant Galapagos and Seychelles tortoises. The park grants outstanding conditions for these delightful animals ensuring their welfare. A Cupulatta is one of Corsica’s top attractions for families.
Located 17 km southeast of Ajaccio on the T20 road, the park may be reached by car, in a taxi, on the bus running to Bastia, or by train (get out at Carbuccia, and from there it’s a 20 min walk to A Cupulatta). Tickets cost €9-€12 (admission for children under 5 is free). You may purchase skip-the-line tickets here.
Find more family-friendly activities in Corsica.
2. INDULGE IN BEACH FUN IN PORTICCIO
Instead of staying on the Ajaccio town beach go to the ultimate sea and sand paradise of Porticcio located across the bay on its southern shores. This vibrant summer resort is popular among the Ajaccians and beach-loving visitors who appreciate a wide choice of water sports, outdoor activities, bars, and restaurants. The furthest end of Rive Sud is quieter with beaches such as the stunning Plage Verghia or Cala d’Orzu offering truly enchanted hideaways with turquoise water, soft white sand, and wild vegetation surrounding the coves.
You may easily get there by car or taxi or alternatively, take a 20-minute-long sea shuttle departing from the port in Ajaccio, you will find details on the official site https://www.ca-ajaccien.corsica/muvimare/.
3. PRACTICE KAYAKING ON LAC DE TOLLA
Beautifully set in the wild Prunelli Valley 32 km east of Ajaccio, the sapphire-coloured Lac de Tolla unveils a serene natural oasis contrasting the hustle and bustle of Ajaccio. This fiord-like mountain lake is a celebrated spot for various water activities with equipment such as kayaks, pedalos, canoes, stand-up paddles, or even small fishing boats available for hire at the local nautical base (open from June to September) https://www.centre-nautique-de-tolla.fr/. On site, you may enjoy a simple meal from one of the straw huts situated on the lake’s bank.
4. JOIN A GUIDED MOUNTAIN TRIP TO GORGES DE PRUNELLI AND TOLLA
Take part in a small group mountain day trip accompanied by an English-speaking guide. During the tour, you will visit an imposing waterfall, enjoy a Corsican lunch near a mountain river, and stop for swimming or kayaking at Lake Tolla. The meeting point is generally in the parking lot near the port but you may request pick-up at your preferred location. Here you may check the details of the trip and book your tickets.
5. HIKE TO SUBLIME WATERFALLS AT VIZZAVONA
Enjoy an easy walk to Cascades des Anglais (1092m), glorious mountain waterfalls at the foot of Monte d’Oro in the old Vizzavona forest. Easily accessible from the T20 road linking Ajaccio with Bastia, the trail starts opposite Auberge Muntagnera 800 m north of the Vizzavona mountain pass and its car park. The round trip is 3 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 100 m. Comfortable water shoes with good traction will be useful to make the most of the river’s emerald swimming pools, rocky slides, and natural Jacuzzis. Bring your snacks and water as there are no services available in the untamed scenery of the torrent.
6. ENJOY A BOAT TOUR OF BONIFACIO AND LAVEZZI ISLANDS
The medieval town of Bonifacio crowning tall limestone cliffs on the southern tip of Corsica is the island’s most-visited destination. The fortress is not only famous for its dramatic setting but also for the wealth of historic landmarks, beautiful beaches, scenic walks, and typically Mediterranean ambiance permeating its lively alleyways.
A few kilometers off the coast at the gateway to Sardinia the protected Iles Lavezzi form an exotic natural heaven of boulder-strewn wild islets surrounded by transparent aquamarine waters. Idyllic beaches of the archipelago guarantee first-class snorkeling conditions whereas the maze of scenic footpaths allows you to explore pristine Mediterranean vegetation. With virtually no services on-site, you will need to bring food and drink with you.
Find more details about this delightful excursion and book tickets here.
7. EXPLORE CALANCHES DE PIANA AND SCANDOLA NATURE RESERVE
The dramatic scenery of Calanches de Piana and Scandola Nature Reserve on the island’s rugged north-west coast near Porto is one of Corsica’s highlights. The rocky chaos of towering cliffs plunging into deep-blue waters of the Mediterranean is the benchmark for marine and terrestrial biodiversity inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Driving through the Calanches is an exciting experience and one of Corsica’s most revered scenic drives. But you may also hop on a boat in Ajaccio to see these nature’s wanders from the sea.
The crimson-coloured rocky Scandola Reserve encompasses 900 hectares of land and 1000 hectares of the sea including the Girolata peninsula with its isolated village on the other side of Porto Bay. Reached only from the sea, it remains untouched by human intervention providing habitats for unique flora and fauna species.
Click here to read more about the magical boat tour and book tickets.
8. UNCOVER ANCIENT HISTORY AT FILITOSA
Visit Filitosa, Europe’s most revered megalithic site dating back 8000 years. In this extensive UNESCO World Heritage List inscribed historic complex you can discover mysterious anthropomorphic sculptures unearthed in 1946 and remains of an ancient settlement. The integrated archeological museum presents an extraordinary collection of prehistoric artifacts unveiling the origins of human activity in the Mediterranean basin.
Beautifully set in the serene Gulf of Valinco 20 km north of Propriano, Filitosa is surrounded by ancient olive trees and green hills of the fertile river valley. Allow one hour for your visit which will cost you €9 (children under 6 are free of charge).
9. WALK TO WATERLILY-COVERED CRENO LAKE
Located at the altitude of 1310 meters 70 km northeast of Ajaccio, Creno Lake charms visitors with its colorful waterlily cover and enchanting surroundings of Laricio pine-carpeted mountains. It is a picture-perfect, tranquil spot in the midst of pristine nature away from the relentless heat of the coast. The hike is fairly easy and the 6.5 km round trip takes 2h30min-3h30min. The Creno hike is one of Corsica’s best attractions for children. At the car park located at the trailhead, you may hire a donkey to carry your little ones or just to accompany you on this enjoyable trip. Bring your provisions and sun protection.
10. ASCENT OF THE ICONIC CAPU ROSSU PINNACLE
The crimson summit of Capu Rossu pierces the sky of the southern part of Porto Bay. 331 m high this pyramid-like promontory is crowned with a Genoese watchtower encompassing an amazing 360° panorama of west Corsica. The 4 km-long trail starting halfway between Piana and the glorious beach of Arone is void of technical difficulties except for its last steep stretch where some rock scrambling may be involved. As the path is exposed to intense Mediterranean sun make sure that you carry water and cover your head. Allow 3-4 hours for the round trip.
WHERE TO EAT IN AJACCIO
- Bistro Canaille – located near the Cathedral, it serves delicious food in a friendly ambiance at reasonable prices.
- U Papacionu – offers mouth-watering Corsican-style pizzas but you may need to book in advance as in peak season the venue fills up quickly.
- Le Cabanon – best-quality locally sourced ingredients and excellent wines served near the port.
- Le Poseidon – sample fresh Corsican seafood on a boat in the harbour. A unique place with lovely views of the port.
- Le Trou dans le Mur – hearty traditional dishes served in a friendly brasserie near the Ajaccio market.
- A Nepita – a small chic restaurant with top-rate seasonal food and personalized service.
- Le Grandval Bar – an emblematic place among the Ajaccians that has been serving coffee and afternoon aperitifs for over 100 years.
- Galeani – sixth-generation bakers who make some of the best Canistrelli in Ajaccio. Also try Fritella au brocciu.
- Yayourt – a must-visit place for children and adults to try the best in town frozen yogurt with various toppings.
BOOK A GASTRONOMIC / CULTURAL EXPERIENCE IN AJACCIO
- Enjoy a Corsican meal while learning fascinating facts about the life of Napoleon Bonaparte at the Napoleon Cave. This comprehensive cultural experience may be booked in advance.
WHAT TO BUY IN AJACCIO – TAKE-HOME GIFTS
- CHEESE – strong-flavored ewes or goat’s cheese produced according to time-tested ancestral traditions in rural Corsica.
- CHARCUTERIE – delicious cured meats certified with an AOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label to guarantee the highest quality produce made of free-roaming porcu nustrale, the native black pig. Choose Coppa, Lonzu, Prisuttu or Figatellu.
- CANISTRELLI – traditional shortbread biscuits, often made with white wine and chestnut flour. Maison Filidori excels in baked goods.
- WINE – outstanding Corsican wines from the AOP Ajaccio region perfectly transmit the unique qualities of the local terroir. The main grape varieties for reds are the smooth and fruity Scciacarellu or more opulent Niellucciu while Vermentinu is used in whites. If you like sweet wines be sure to get the extraordinary Corsican Muscat du Cap Corse. Le Chemin des Vignobles shop has a good selection of some of the best Corsican wines.
- JAM – the Corsican jams are made of the local sun-soaked fruits harvested at perfect ripeness. Flavors include chestnut, fig, lemon, or clementine.
- HONEY – Corsica is known for its premium honey recognized by the AOC (Appellation d’Origine Controlée) label. Each region boasts distinct flavour and aroma characteristics.
- OLIVE OIL – recognized worldwide for its superb quality, Corsican olive oil is an integral part of the island’s gastronomic tradition.
- HERB-SCENTED TOILETRIES – maquis-perfumed natural soaps and beauty products bring back memories of sunny Mediterranean adventures.
- OLIVE WOOD ACCESSORIES – olive wood chopping boards, bowls, kitchen utensils, and decorations bear witness to Corsica’s long-standing carving traditions.
- CORAL JEWELRY – Mediterranean red coral has a special place in Ajaccio’s cultural legacy. Visit Casa Ghjuvelli for outstanding artisanal work devoted to this noble material.
BOOK A CULINARY TOUR OF AJACCIO
- Taste mouthwatering Corsican specialties during an exciting culinary tour of the town. A local guide will introduce you to artisanal products and dishes away from the tourist traps. Tastings last for up to 3 hours and vegetarians are welcome. Learn more and book your tour here.
PLANNING YOUR AJACCIO ITINERARY
If you only have one day to visit Ajaccio think strategically and choose your attractions according to your specific timeframe and personal preferences. Assess how much you are able to do without overloading your itinerary and only concentrating on activities that will truly bring joy and relaxation. As the general rule of thumb, in Corsica, things take longer than previously planned, be they driving or hiking.
WHAT NOT TO MISS
- If you decide to limit your stay strictly to city attractions and activities, find time to enjoy the highlights– a stroll in the old town, a visit to Maison Bonaparte and Musee Fesch, and an al fresco lunch with the Corsican specialties on the menu. To conclude the day you can plan an adventure such as an excursion to Iles Sanguinaires, an e-bike tour, or a scenic hike above the town.
- If you wish to venture further away from the Imperial city you may choose from a diverse selection of exciting activities, however, it is Corsica’s celebrated natural sites of Calanches de Piana and Scandola that most impress travelers.
- Families with children should not forgo the sampling of delicious Glacier Neri ice cream, a visit to the A Cupulatta turtle sanctuary, or a boat trip to Porticcio for watersports or to Iles Sanguinaires to snorkel and watch the dolphins.
- Hikers and nature lovers are spoiled for choice with the mesmerizing outdoors available at every corner. Lake Tolla and Gorges de Prunelli are only a stone’s throw away from the city but you may choose to go a little further to Vizzavona and its sublime Cascades des Anglais. North of Ajaccio you will find Lake Creno, Capu Rossu, and Corsica’s emblematic rocky coast around Porto.
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Wear comfortable, breathable shoes when exploring Ajaccio. In hot weather, your feet may swell making sightseeing tiresome.
- Protect yourself from the strong Mediterranean sun with headwear, sunglasses, and an SPF cream.
- Driving will take more time than you expect, especially in summer. Traffic jams are not a rare occurrence in Ajaccio with peak time oscillating around 5 o’clock. Read more about driving in Corsica here.
- Many services shut between 12h-14h. If you plan a visit at the post office or in the bank the morning hours are by far the calmest.
- Some venues and museums are shut on Mondays.
- Tipping in the Corsican restaurants is the norm but if you are not in a position to leave extra coins on the table it will not be seen as faux pas.
- It is worth carrying some cash with you when exploring Corsica. Some of the small, family-run businesses located in rural areas don’t accept cards. This rarely is the case in the cities.
HELPFUL TRAVEL RESOURCES
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