Our inspirations in Calvi & surroundings
Here, we immerse you in the fascinating world of Calvi, a destination that never ceases to amaze and inspire. Nestled in an immense bay, the town is crowned by a majestic citadel whose walls proudly reach out to sea, offering an architectural spectacle beyond compare. The picture is completed by a line of majestic mountains, often snow-covered until May, giving the place a striking beauty and an unforgettable character.
We reveal Calvi's secrets to you, from the dizzying heights of the town to the breathtaking sunsets at the sanctuary of Notre-Dame de la Serra. This privileged vantage point, where tranquillity reigns, offers a unique perspective on the town and its surroundings, enveloped in the golden light of twilight.
Follow us on this journey through "Secrets and Inspirations in Calvi", where every line is an invitation to explore, dream and let yourself be seduced by this exceptional Corsican destination.
Breakfast downtown and dining on the beach
In Calvi, the promise of a memorable vacation awaits you, where the vibrant city center and heavenly beaches meet to offer the best of both worlds. In Calvi, you'll have it all - the town and the beach.
Your day can start in the friendly atmosphere of Calvi's town center. Here, between the lively alleyways, fishermen, boulistes and grocers share their daily lives, inviting you to discover the town from an authentic angle, with passion and generosity. In the afternoon, let yourself be seduced by the Plage de la Pinède, nestled at the end of the Gulf of Calvi and backed by a pine forest. This white-sand beach, facing crystal-blue waters, is the ideal setting for absolute relaxation. Here, the Bay of Calvi is revealed in all its splendor, with welcoming paillotes where you can enjoy lunch with your feet in the water, while contemplating the sea. Deckchair hire completes a lazy day, just a few steps from the citadel. For those in search of even more privacy, the 1.5 km walk to Plage de l'Alga offers a haven of peace, where the turquoise sea and crystal-clear waters are home to a wealth of fish and underwater vegetation. Tranquillity here has to be earned, but it's well worth the effort.
The next day, the adventure continues with hikes to the natural pools of the Fango and Asco, natural gems in the vicinity of Calvi. For an enriching experience, take the little train from Calvi station to Île Rousse. This picturesque journey will take you to a vibrant market where you can discover and taste fresh local produce, a delicious way to round off your stay in Calvi.
Between town and beach, relaxing activities and nature adventures, Calvi is a destination where every moment is an invitation to discovery and pleasure.
What to see: for culture lovers
Calvi, with its rich Italian past as the jewel in the crown of the Republic of Genoa, is a treasure trove for culture lovers. The citadel of Calvi, perched majestically on a rocky promontory, offers a journey back in time with its imposing fortifications, centuries-old churches and a convent steeped in history. In Calvi, you'll discover the remains of an abandoned village and towers that tell the story of this fortified city's centuries of struggle and resilience. The Calvi Tourist Office organizes treasure hunts that your children will love, so don't miss out. Calvi's citadel is not just a historic site; it's also the vibrant heart of the town, hosting the annual Calvi Music Festival. This event transforms the ancient fortifications into an effervescent stage, where modern melodies meet monumental heritage, creating a unique atmosphere where culture is celebrated in all its forms.
To explore Calvi is to plunge into a world where history and modernity blend harmoniously, offering visitors a rich and diverse cultural experience. Whether through the majesty of its architectural heritage or the energy of its cultural events, Calvi promises culture lovers unforgettable moments, imbued with the spirit and soul of the Mediterranean.
Our local experts tell you all about our trips to Corsica!
Where to park to visit Calvi?
Visiting Calvi in summer is an unforgettable experience, but finding parking can be a challenge, especially during the peak season when the town welcomes many visitors. Fortunately, Calvi offers several parking options for easy access to the city's wonders.
Parking du Port : Located close to Calvi's port, this parking lot is ideal for those wishing to stroll along the quay and explore the many restaurants and stores. Although it can get quite busy in high season, it's an excellent starting point for touring the town.
Citadelle parking: For a visit to the citadel and its historic surroundings, consider parking in the designated areas around this iconic attraction. These areas offer easy access to the citadel, although spaces may be limited during peak periods.
Peripheral parking lots: Calvi also has parking lots on the outskirts of town, often with more availability than those in the city center. These options can be a good choice for avoiding the crowds in the more touristy areas, and are usually connected to the center by shuttle buses or pleasant footpaths.
On-street parking: Although on-street parking options are available, they can be limited and are often regulated by parking discs or parking meters. It is advisable to read signs carefully to avoid fines.
For a hassle-free visit to Calvi during the summer, consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon when parking spaces are easier to find. Also, check with your accommodation to see if they offer parking solutions or advice for your stay.
What to do in Calvi, Corsica
In Calvi, there's no shortage of adventures for those in search of unique and memorable experiences. Among the activities we've carefully selected for you, here are some getaways that promise to leave their mark on your stay:
4x4 excursion with guide: Immerse yourself in the very essence of Corsica with a 4x4 excursion accompanied by a guide. This adventure will take you to the heart of the Corsican mountains, to discover breathtaking landscapes and authentic villages, where time seems to stand still.
Boat trip to the Calanques de Piana : Let yourself be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the Calanques de Piana during a day at sea. These spectacular rock formations, plunging into deep blue waters, are a natural spectacle not to be missed, offering opportunities for swimming and relaxing in an idyllic setting.
Discover the Agriate Desert and Saleccia Beach by Boat: Broaden your horizons with a boat trip that takes you through the Agriate Desert to the sublime Saleccia Beach. This stretch of white sand bordered by a crystal-clear sea and framed by a wild landscape is a veritable paradise on earth, accessible only by sea or via hidden paths.
Ride an electric scooter through the vineyards or along the seafront paths: Add a touch of originality to your holiday with an electric scooter excursion. Whether in the heart of Corsican vineyards or along the coast, this activity offers a fun and ecological way to explore the island's breathtaking landscapes.
Donkey rides: For a truly unique experience, opt for a donkey ride. This activity allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of Corsican nature, discovering landscapes at a peaceful pace, guided by these gentle, reliable companions.
What to do around Calvi
During your stay in Calvi, get ready for an adventure where natural beauty and Balinese authenticity take center stage. Start with an unforgettable boat trip to the Scandola nature reserve, a breathtaking experience that will take you through some of the most spectacular seascapes in the Mediterranean. This UNESCO-recognized reserve is a jewel of biodiversity where nature expresses itself in all its splendor. Continue your exploration with a visit to Moltifao, an exceptional place where you can meet turtles in their natural environment. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in Balagne's authenticity by visiting one of the region's emblematic villages, such as Sant'Antonino. Perched high up in the hills, this village, listed as one of the most beautiful in France, invites you to take a trip back in time, with its narrow streets and stone houses offering panoramic views of the surrounding region. Your stay in Calvi would not be complete without a trip to the Fango Valley, classified as a natural biosphere reserve by UNESCO. This exceptional site is ideal for hiking through wild, unspoilt landscapes, and for cooling off in the crystal-clear natural pools that line the valley.
Restaurants: where to eat in Calvi?
Looking for the best places to enjoy local gastronomy in Calvi? This charming Corsican town, renowned for its picturesque scenery and vibrant atmosphere, is home to a multitude of restaurants capable of satisfying even the most demanding palates. If you stroll along Calvi harbor, you'll discover a varied selection of establishments promising a memorable culinary experience. Among them, Restaurant Le Comme Chez Soi and Restaurant Casa Vinu stand out for their privileged location and refined cuisine, offering a breathtaking view of the sea while tasting succulent dishes. For those who prefer the unique atmosphere of Calvi's lively citadel, U Fornu is an address not to be missed. This restaurant, nestled in the heart of the citadel, is renowned for its warm ambience and authentic dishes that celebrate the richness of Corsican cuisine. Our favorite, however, goes to the gourmet restaurant La Signoria. Located a little way from the hustle and bustle of the city center, La Signoria offers an exceptional culinary experience in an elegant and refined setting. This gastronomic gem offers an innovative menu featuring local seasonal produce, orchestrated by a talented chef who knows how to awaken the senses with dishes that are both creative and delicious.