Top 10 most-visited Corsican towns and sites
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The summer season is drawing to a close, and Indian summer is slowly setting in. You'd rather take advantage of the off-season, or maybe you just want to continue your dream... Are you planning a tour of Corsica this year to discover the natural, cultural and historical sites that have all contributed to the identity of today's Corsica? Take a look at our list of the most visited towns and sites.
Where to go for the first time in Corsica?
With its breathtaking seaside scenery, vast expanses of forest and snow-capped mountains, Corsica lives up to its nickname "Island of Beauty". Along the coast you'll find attractive port towns and, as you climb higher, picturesque mountain villages that will take you on a journey of discovery of authentic Corsica.
Corsica has no shortage of things to do. It's a paradise for beach lovers, hikers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. The island boasts some of Europe's most rugged landscapes and a 1,000-kilometer-long coastline with translucent waters perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving or, for the connoisseur, free-diving.
Although Corsica has been part of France since 1769, the island has its own culture. The territory boasts strong archaeological potential, a fascinating history, exceptional nature, unique songs and music. It also offers a gastronomic identity, with specialties such as cheeses, chestnut polenta and tasty charcuterie.
Follow us as we invite you to discover the best places to visit in Corsica.
Top 10 most-visited towns and sites in Corsica
Corsica is so rich in discoveries that it's very difficult to make a selection, but if you've never been to the island before, here are a few Corsican towns and tourist sites you won't want to miss on your next vacation.
1. Ajaccio, a must-see
Corsica's most famous son, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born in this lively capital, pleasantly situated on the west coast in the Gulf of Ajaccio. Sensational sea views can be admired from various parts of the town. In the center of Ajaccio is Place de Gaulle, a large square with an equestrian statue of Napoleon (created in 1865 by Viollet le-Duc).
The Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon's birthplace, houses portraits, memorabilia and family documents.At the Palais Fesch (Musée des Beaux-Arts), a fine collection of works of art awaits you, as well as a gallery dedicated to Napoleon. You'll see a collection of medallions and coins depicting Napoleon, as well as sculptures and paintings,
Ajaccio's old town is also well worth exploring to discover the historic charm of its maze of narrow, winding streets. The 16th-century Ajaccio Cathedral, where Napoleon was baptized in 1771. The cathedral's most remarkable work is Eugène Delacroix's painting La Vierge au Sacré Coeur. Do you know its history?
2. Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve, a must-see
The Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a protected marine environment spread over five communes: Bonifacio, Figari, Monaccia d'Aullène, Pianottoli-Caldarello and Porto-Vecchio.
Covering 80,000 hectares, the reserve also includes marshes, lagoons and other coastal areas. Many rare and protected species of birds and fish thrive in this ecosystem: the site is home to 37% of the Mediterranean's remarkable species. Perhaps you'll catch a glimpse of a crested cormorant or a grey shearwater?
One of the highlights of the Bouches de Bonifacio is the Lavezzi Islands marine reserve, a top destination for divers. Beneath the translucent turquoise waters, an abundance of underwater life awaits deep-sea enthusiasts. Sightings include colorful fish such as the girelle and the crenilabre peacock.
Many companies organize snorkeling and scuba diving expeditions. Boat trips and dinner cruises (departing from Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio) are available for those who simply prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery.
3. Belgodère
In the Balagne region, the fortified medieval village of Belgodère sits on the slopes of a hill close to the coast. The rocky hillside is crowned by the ruins of a 13th-century castle overlooking the landscape. Exceptional panoramic views of the sea and the Reginu valley can also be found in other parts of the village.
Visitors can enjoy strolling through Belgodère's winding streets, relaxing on a café terrace and discovering the village's historic monuments, including charming little chapels. The Baroque-style Église Saint-Thomas features a remarkable 16th-century painting of the Virgin and Child. A wonderful visit!
4. The Scandola Nature Reserve, one of the most beautiful places on earth
In the Gulf of Porto, this UNESCO World Heritage nature reserve is a surreal coastal landscape. Only accessible by boat, the Scandola nature reserve encompasses an isolated mountain peninsula and offshore islands formed from an ancient volcano. Crystal-clear turquoise waters rub shoulders with cliffs and hidden coves.
The Scandola nature reserve is home to some of the best diving in Corsica. Marine life here includes dolphins, moray eels, swordfish and coral reefs. Shuttles frequently leave from Calvi, Porto or Galéria. Many local companies also offer organized tours to help you discoverthis fascinating coastline.
5. The Castagniccia region, in the heart of nature
South of Bastia, around 50 km (about an hour's drive), lies the mountainous region of Castagniccia, named after the chestnut trees that grow here in abundance. The traditional stone-roofed houses all have drying rooms for the chestnuts, which must be dried before they can be shelled and meticulously sorted into delicious flour. This peaceful wooded countryside is dotted with ancient hilltop villages, small hamlets and magnificent churches. Here you'll find numerous churches, such as the richly decorated Saint-Pierre et Saint-Paul church in Piedicroce and the 18th-century Notre-Dame-du-Mont-Carmel church in Stoppia Nova, both listed as historic monuments.
The serene Alesani Convent in Piazzali, set in a sublime natural setting, is another historic monument worth visiting. On the convent's property is a 31-kilometer nature trail through a verdant landscape.
Adventurous hikers can climb to the summit of Monte San-Petrone (1,767 m a.s.l.) from the starting point in Piedicroce or from the Col de Prato; in either case, the six-kilometer ascent takes around five or six hours. The trail crosses rocky ridges, above chestnut forests, valleys and small hamlets. From the summit, incredible panoramic views stretch across the Mediterranean Sea to the Italian coastline.
6. Our most beautiful villages and the Calanques de Piana
From its spectacular hilltop vantage point, Piana overlooks the fascinating blue waters of the Gulf of Porto. Stroll around the village (one of the most beautiful in France), with its picturesque, narrow streets and pleasant, shady squares. Piana boasts many pastel-colored houses and an exquisite Italian Baroque church, the Eglise Sainte-Marie.
You'll find more impressive views in the hamlet of Vistale, home to an ancient chapel, the Chapelle Sainte-Lucie (open in July and August), decorated with Byzantine-style frescoes by 20th-century Russian artists.
Between the village of Piana and the seaside resort of Porto lies a picturesque (and challenging) coastal route on windy roads through the calanques of Piana. This natural site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is breathtaking, with the cove surrounded by pink granite cliffs and rock formations that stand out against the deep-blue Mediterranean Sea. Some of the granite pinnacles rise 300 meters above the sea.
The region boasts a number of hiking trails with vantage points for admiring the incredible panoramas.
7. The beaches of the seaside resort of Porto-Vecchio
Corsica's most beautiful beaches are to be found around Porto-Vecchio, which has become a lively summer resort. The most famous beach in the Porto-Vecchio region is Palombaggia, renowned for its wide, sandy shoreline and calm, turquoise waters. Another famous sandy beach is Santa Giulia. Both beaches are set in lagoons, offering a protected environment ideal for swimming.
A little further away and less frequented is Rondinara beach, an absolutely magnificent sandy beach in the bay of the same name. The crystal-clear waters of this beach have an almost tropical quality.
The old port town of Porto-Vecchio is also well worth a visit to discover its impressive citadel. In the 16th century, the Genoese built this impregnable citadel with sturdy fortifications that have survived intact. Within its walls are numerous narrow streets, covered passageways and quiet squares. Numerous restaurants and stores can be found around the Place de la République.
8. Sartène
"The most Corsican of Corsican towns", Sartène is a typical medieval hilltop town classified as a "Ville d'Art et d'Histoire" for its exceptional heritage. Not-to-be-missedsights include the church of Santa Maria Assunta, with its simple facade typical of Corsican churches; the former Genoese Governors' Palace, now the town hall; L'Echauguette (tower), which offers a breathtaking view over the Rizzanese valley; the prehistory museum; and the Place du Maghju, a hub of artisan stores.
Approximately 15 km from Sartène is the Domaine Rosa de Caldane spa, a natural interlude where you can relax and recharge your batteries!
Every spring, the town celebrates the Carnaval de Sartène. This fun-filled carnival includes parades, musical entertainment and masked balls. Every year, Sartène also organizes the "Catenacciu" religious procession, which retraces the events of Christ's Passion. An anonymous "penitent" carries a heavy cross and chain in a somber procession, which begins at the church of Sainte-Marie and continues through the steep streets of Sartène, stopping inside the chapel of Saint-Sébastien and ending at the altar of the church of Sainte-Marie. The oldest religious tradition in southern Corsica, this event attracts pilgrims from near and far.
9. Sant'Antonino
Perched like an eagle's nest on a granite hill almost 500 meters above sea level, the ancient fortified town of Sant'Antonino offers superb views of the surrounding countryside and the sea.
In the lush Balagne region, Sant'Antonino isone of Corsica's oldest villages, with a Moorish heritage dating back to the 9th century. Thanks to its old-world charm, Sant'Antonino is now listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. Visitors will be delighted by the village's medieval tangle of winding cobbled streets, alleyways and covered passageways.
Around seven kilometers from Sant'Antonino, between the snow-capped mountains and the sea, the convent of Saint-Dominique de Corbara is a haven of peace nestled on a lush hillside with breathtaking views. The convent is open to visitors for spiritual retreats. It's an experience you'll never forget.
10. Bonifacio and its cliffs
Bonifacio, our favorite, is a well-preserved fortified town perched on a steep limestone cliff. With its old-world atmosphere, the town is a maze of medieval alleyways and its heart is the 12th-13th century church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, a Romanesque church with early Gothic elements. Also worth a visit is the 13th-century Church of Saint Dominic, with its austere façade and simple interior. It isthe only Gothic building in Corsica.
Bonifacio lies in Corsica's largest nature reserve, the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve, which encompasses limestone cliffs, seaside caves and the Lavezzi Islands. Nearby are a number of dream beaches. Strolling along the marina, dotted with small restaurants and boutiques, is a real pleasure during a trip to Corsica .
Another destination close to Bonifacio is the port of Santa Teresa di Gallura in Sardinia, only an hour away by ferry.
This list is by no means exhaustive, since many other Corsican towns and regions are equally worth a visit, including Calvi, Bastia, the GR20, the Agriate Desert, the Col de Bavella and the beautiful Valdo Niello forest, for unforgettable hikes in the heart of Corsica.
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What to do in Corsica
In Corsica, a land with the air of the end of the world, the activities on offer are as diverse as they are captivating, catering for both mountain and sea lovers. For those in good physical condition, a hike to Corsica's high peaks offers an unforgettable experience, allowing you to explore the majesty of the island of beauty from a unique angle. The pointe de Revellata, with its breathtaking coastal scenery, and the trou de la Bombe, a geological curiosity nestled in the heart of the mountains, are popular spots for rewarding hiking adventures, while days by the sea offer a completely different kind of relaxation and discovery. Here, in the company of ospreys, emblematic of Corsican fauna, you can indulge in contemplation or water sports, enjoying the tranquility of the island's crystal-clear waters. Whether in the high mountains or on the water's edge, Corsica reveals its treasures to those who know how to venture.