Bonifacio: what to do in Bonifacio?
Located at the southernmost tip of Corsica, Bonifacio is fascinating! A picturesque architecture and heritage where nature has shaped its contours century after century. A magnificent Corsican citadel where numerous possibilities for discovery, relaxation and leisure await you. We'll guide you and reveal the city of cliffs in three ways: on foot, you'll reach the must-see spots; by sea, you won't believe your eyes; from the air, you'll be blown away!
How to visit Bonifacio Start by visiting the Citadel!
Bonifacio, the "City of Cliffs" on foot
Join the town of Bonifacio and its historic monuments by taking the little train departing from La Marine. If the climb under the sun doesn't tempt you, you'll love the driver's anecdotes. The thousand-year-old fortress welcomes you and offers exceptional views. Stop off at the marine cemetery, one of the most beautiful in the Mediterranean, whose white tombs look out over the sea in peaceful contemplation. If you have closed shoes, you can descend the 189 steps of the King of Aragon's Staircase, dug out according to legend in one night by the King's soldiers in 1420: wonder guaranteed! Visit the Bastion de l'étendard, whose underground chambers recount 1,000 years of history. Discover the citadel's important religious heritage and the traditions that punctuate Bonifacian life. If you're looking for a unique experience, reserve your Thursday evening for a concert of Corsican polyphony in the church of Saint Dominique. Take a stroll through the town and lose yourself in the narrow streets to discover an art gallery, craftsmen making coral knives and jewelry, and an intimate restaurant with its secret recipe for Bonifacienne-style eggplants. Last but not least, the farmers' market every Friday morning will reveal all its flavors. When you reach the marina, you'll love the view of the port and the contrast between the green of the sea and the white of the cliffs. Your stroll around Bonifacio ends with a stroll around the marina, with its gleaming luxury yachts and charming fishing boats, and a look at the restaurant menus for dinner with a chestnut or raspberry ice cream in hand. The day's program includes shopping, strolling, sightseeing, dining out.....At night, you'll have no trouble finding a trendy bar - the music will show you the way!
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Continue with a trip around Bonifacio
The choice is yours: a leisurely stroll or an active hike? From the Pertusato lighthouse, Fanale di Pertusatu, 4 km from the town, you'll have a magnificent view of the limestone cliffs and the Lavezzi islands, and with a bit of luck, you may even encounter the Hermann tortoise (do not disturb it, it is forbidden to collect it). On the other side, towards Figari, reach the Ermitage de la Trinité, a former monastery, and climb the granite rocks to immortalize the moment with your camera! The view of the Mouths of Bonifacio and Sardinia is breathtaking! It's also the starting point for the Fenu trail, which offers a number of hiking possibilities, and where you might come across a few goats trampling on the erodium, or Corsica's endemic geranium. Finally, whether you're a beginner or not, let yourself be tempted by a horseback ride through the maquis and along the Bonifacian coast, another experience to be enjoyed during your vacation. For golf enthusiasts, 18 holes on 75 hectares of controlled greenery in the midst of wild nature await you, including the famous hole 16, recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world, where the player must drive over the sea.
Bonifacio by sea
If you're tempted by the sea, water sports, boat hire or lazing on the beach, we're your guide.
Whether for an hour or the whole day, a sea trip is a must to soak up the history and beauty of Bonifacio. The"caves and cliffs" outing will take you to an impressive sight, including the Sdragonato or Dragon Cave, accessible only by boat: one of the island's most famous natural sights. If you'd like to spend the day on the island of U Lavezzu, take the shuttle bus every hour from 09:00 to 16:30. A day cruise would be perfect to take full advantage of this little jewel of Corsica while enjoying a fisherman's meal on board! For lovers of privacy, we recommend a catamaran excursion, ideal for cruising through the Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve, swimming in the turquoise waters full of fish during stopovers and taking advantage of the paddles at your disposal. And if you've got a boating license, you'll be in heaven - you'll be able to touch the fish!
Bonifacio is home to an international marine park, the Bouches de Bonifacio nature reserve, so take advantage of it and treat yourself to a first dive in its seabed! All kinds of water sports are available: pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, catamaran cruises, towed buoys, jetskiing and more. The presence of a favorable wind makes Bonifacio a kingdom for sailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing at Piantarella, for example.
Finally, for the enjoyment of young and old alike, farniente is in the spotlight: sunbathing, reading, swimming or playing on Bonifacio's beaches can be one of your main activities. We're particularly fond of the Rondinara beach !
Bonifacio from the Corsican sky
A helicopter tour will take you to Bonifacio and its cliffs like you've never seen them before! There are many tours to choose from: opt for an outward flight to Porto-Vecchio and a return flight via Figari airport!
Camping, Hotel, Restaurant, Beaches, Boat rental, Market, Parking, Diving - you'll find it all in Bonifacio!
It was on a mild winter's day in 1793 thatEmma Poggioli, a beautiful Bonifacian, charmed Napoleon. In love with her, he gave her a superb red coral necklace to show his affection. To keep her lover close, Emma prepared a confection made with almonds and citron, which he loved. The recipe has remained, and Napoleon has left for his destiny, so enjoy!
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How to visit Bonifacio in 1 day?
For day-trippers, start by entering the upper town through the historic Genoa Gate, which immediately immerses you in the unique atmosphere of this thousand-year-old city. Take your time to stroll at your own pace through the narrow streets, and don't miss a visit to a 13th-century religious building, from which you can admire a breathtaking view of nearby Sardinia. This church, often associated with the history of the Franciscan monks, adds a spiritual dimension to your exploration. Afterwards, treat yourself to a sea walk to contemplate the famous Grain de Sable, an iconic rock formation, and the majestic white limestone cliffs that line the coast. These excursions offer unique perspectives on Bonifacio and its surroundings, revealing the island's rugged natural beauty. To round off your day, there's nothing quite like a sunset from the citadel, a magical moment when the sky is decked out in flamboyant colors over the Mediterranean Sea. Round off your experience with dinner in a local restaurant, where you can savor eggplants à la bonifacienne, a typical dish that will delight your taste buds.
What's the most beautiful place in southern Corsica?
The Calanques de Piana are often considered one of the most beautiful spots in southern Corsica. With their spectacular rock formations and turquoise waters, they offer breathtaking scenery. Bonifacio, with its impressive white cliffs and charming port, is also a must-see for any visitor to the region.
What's the best beach in Bonifacio?
Among the splendid shores Bonifacio has to offer, Petit Sperone and Plage de Saint-Antoine stand out for their exceptional beauty. Le Petit Sperone, often praised for its fine sand and crystal-clear waters, is a true paradise for lovers of postcard-perfect scenery. Just a short walk away, this beach offers an idyllic setting for a relaxing day in the sun, while Plage de Saint-Antoine is a well-kept secret, offering a beautiful escape from the crowds, where nature shows itself in all its splendour. Its peaceful ambience and breathtaking views over the turquoise waters create a haven of peace for those seeking to recharge their batteries.