Free Corsica Travel Guide & Mobile App

Explore Corsica with free travel guides. Discover regional history, expert tips, proposed trips, and audio guides on web or mobile app.

Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play Download the Free PDF guide
Corsica
Corsica photo 2
Corsica photo 3
All photos

Corsica combines French Mediterranean beaches, mountain trails, Genoese towns, distinctive cuisine and island culture across a dramatic landscape.

Corsica is a French Mediterranean island with a geography more varied than its compact size suggests. Rugged mountains rise almost directly from the sea, dividing the island into distinct coastal and inland landscapes. The western shore is marked by deeply indented bays and dramatic headlands, while the east opens towards broad beaches and lagoons. In the north, the mountainous Cap Corse peninsula extends into the Mediterranean, and the far south is known for pale limestone cliffs, sheltered coves and the historic citadel of Bonifacio.
Read more about Corsica
Ajaccio, on the western coast, is Corsica's capital and the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its museums, palm-lined waterfront and sheltered gulf provide an urban introduction to the island, while Bastia in the north-east retains a strong Genoese character around the Old Port and Terra Vecchia. Calvi and L'Île-Rousse offer access to the Balagne, a region of hill villages, olive groves and beaches, whereas Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio form the principal bases for exploring the south. Inland, Corte occupies a dramatic mountain setting and remains closely associated with Corsican political and cultural history.
The island's landscapes are central to its identity. The regional natural park covers much of the mountainous interior, where the famous GR20 crosses high passes, forests and rocky valleys. Other walkers may prefer shorter routes through the Restonica Valley near Corte, the chestnut country around Castagniccia or the coastal paths of Cap Corse. Scandola Nature Reserve, reached by boat from parts of the west coast, protects a striking volcanic shoreline and marine environment; access and landing arrangements are regulated to protect the area.
Corsican culture reflects layers of prehistoric settlement, Roman and medieval history, Genoese rule, and incorporation into France in the eighteenth century. The Corsican language remains visible in place names, music and cultural life, while village churches, hilltop ruins and Genoese towers provide a physical reminder of the island's past. Local food draws on chestnuts, wild herbs, cured meats, brocciu whey cheese, olive oil and seafood, with strong differences between mountain and coastal cooking.
Distances can be deceptive: winding mountain roads make some journeys considerably longer than the map suggests. A well-planned itinerary usually combines one or two coastal bases with time inland rather than attempting to circle the island rapidly. Summer brings warm, busy conditions and intense demand for accommodation and ferries; spring and early autumn offer particularly favourable conditions for walking, sightseeing and exploring villages, although mountain weather can change quickly at any time of year.

When is the best time to visit Corsica?

Best: May–June, September · 23–28°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January1371
February1465
March1656
April1962
May (best)2351
June (best)2840
July3135
August3139
September (best)2746
October2261
November1768
December1473

Getting to and around Corsica

How to get there

Corsica is reached mainly by air or ferry from mainland France and nearby Mediterranean ports. The island has airports at Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi and Figari, serving different coastal areas; routes vary seasonally and should be checked before booking. Ferries operate from mainland ports such as Marseille, Toulon and Nice, as well as from some Italian ports, with arrivals including Bastia, Ajaccio, L'Île-Rousse and Porto-Vecchio depending on the service. There is no fixed road or rail connection to mainland France, so visitors travelling by car generally use a vehicle ferry.

Transportation

A hire car is useful for reaching mountain villages, beaches, trailheads and dispersed archaeological sites, although driving times are lengthened by winding roads and high-season traffic. Corsica's rail network links Bastia, Corte, Ajaccio and L'Île-Rousse through scenic inland routes, but it does not serve every coastal resort. Buses connect some towns and tourist areas, though rural coverage and seasonal frequency can be limited. Taxis and organised excursions are practical for selected journeys, while walking is the natural way to explore historic centres and marked mountain paths. Check road and trail conditions before setting out.

Best attractions in Corsica

Corsica's attractions range from prehistoric archaeology and Genoese fortifications to dramatic protected coastlines and high mountain valleys. At Filitosa in the south-west, carved menhirs and prehistoric remains provide an insight into the island's distant past, while Aléria on the eastern plain presents Corsica's Greek and Roman heritage. Bastia, Calvi, Bonifacio and Ajaccio each offer historic citadels, old quarters and waterfront culture, but their architectural character differs according to location and history. Inland, Corte is the principal base for exploring the Restonica Valley and the mountainous landscapes of the regional natural park. Walkers can tackle sections of the GR20 or choose gentler routes through chestnut forests and village country. Boat excursions reveal the red-rock coastline and marine environment of the Scandola Nature Reserve, while the Lavezzi archipelago near Bonifacio offers rocky islets and clear surrounding waters. Beaches are especially prominent around Balagne, the south and parts of the east coast, but quieter experiences are often found by travelling beyond the busiest summer resorts. Museums, village churches, craft workshops and food producers add cultural depth beyond the coast.

Show more attractions

Best landmarks in Corsica

Bonifacio's citadel occupies a dramatic limestone promontory above the Strait of Bonifacio, with houses and defensive walls perched above the sea; its famous stairway cut into the cliff is a separate paid attraction whose access may vary. Bastia's citadel and old quarter reflect the city's long Genoese history, while the Old Port remains one of the island's most recognisable urban settings. In Ajaccio, the Maison Bonaparte marks the birthplace of Napoleon and provides a direct link to the city's eighteenth-century past. Corte's citadel, set above the meeting of mountain valleys, symbolises the inland political history associated with Pasquale Paoli. The Genoese watchtowers scattered along the coastline, including those around Cap Corse and the west, form a distinctive defensive landscape built to monitor maritime movement and raids. Near Filitosa, prehistoric carved standing stones preserve an older and more enigmatic landmark tradition. The granitic peaks and valleys of the interior, together with the red volcanic cliffs of the Scandola coastline, are geographical landmarks as much as scenic ones, revealing the sharp contrast between Corsica's mountains and its Mediterranean shores.

Show more landmarks

Explore Corsica on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top cities, national parks and sights are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Corsica

Corsican food combines mountain pastoral traditions with Mediterranean produce. Brocciu, a fresh whey cheese made from sheep's or goat's milk, appears in savoury dishes and desserts, while chestnuts are used in flour, cakes, biscuits and other specialities, particularly in the island's forested interior. Menus may include cured meats such as prisuttu and coppa, wild boar preparations, beans, lentils, herbs, aubergines, local honey and fish from coastal communities. Restaurants in Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, Bonifacio and other larger towns offer contemporary interpretations alongside traditional cooking, while village auberges and rural inns often focus on hearty regional dishes. Coastal restaurants commonly serve Mediterranean seafood, although local sourcing varies. Corsican wines come from several appellations and include distinctive island varieties, with vineyards around Patrimonio, the eastern plain, Ajaccio and other areas. Markets and specialist food shops are useful for buying cheese, charcuterie, preserves, olive oil, chestnut products and seasonal fruit.

Show more restaurants

Best bars in Corsica

Corsican nightlife is concentrated in the larger coastal towns and holiday resorts rather than spread evenly across the island. Bastia and Ajaccio provide the broadest choice of wine bars, cafés, restaurants, live music and late evening venues, while Calvi, Porto-Vecchio, Bonifacio and parts of the Balagne develop a more seasonal social scene during the summer. Historic squares and waterfronts often fill with café tables early in the evening, and some beach and marina areas host music-led venues without resembling a large mainland club district. Inland towns such as Corte tend to centre their evenings on cafés, bars and student life rather than extensive late-night entertainment. Local wines, beers and spirits can be sampled in moderation, but alcohol is not necessary to participate in Corsican evening culture. Opening patterns and entertainment programmes change considerably between the high and low seasons, so visitors should check locally rather than rely on out-of-date listings.

Show more bars

Best nightclubs in Corsica

Corsican nightlife is concentrated in the larger coastal towns and holiday resorts rather than spread evenly across the island. Bastia and Ajaccio provide the broadest choice of wine bars, cafés, restaurants, live music and late evening venues, while Calvi, Porto-Vecchio, Bonifacio and parts of the Balagne develop a more seasonal social scene during the summer. Historic squares and waterfronts often fill with café tables early in the evening, and some beach and marina areas host music-led venues without resembling a large mainland club district. Inland towns such as Corte tend to centre their evenings on cafés, bars and student life rather than extensive late-night entertainment. Local wines, beers and spirits can be sampled in moderation, but alcohol is not necessary to participate in Corsican evening culture. Opening patterns and entertainment programmes change considerably between the high and low seasons, so visitors should check locally rather than rely on out-of-date listings.

Show more nightclubs

Best shops in Corsica

Shopping in Corsica is strongest in the old quarters and market streets of Bastia, Ajaccio, Calvi, Bonifacio, L'Île-Rousse and other established towns, where independent food shops, fashion outlets, bookshops and craft sellers serve both residents and visitors. Markets are useful for seasonal fruit, vegetables, cheese, honey, olive oil, preserves and cured meats, although opening days and size vary by town and season. Regional products make more meaningful souvenirs than generic beach merchandise: look for chestnut flour and biscuits, Corsican wines, myrtle products, soaps, ceramics, leather goods, knives, textiles and locally made jewellery. Village workshops and farm shops provide opportunities to buy directly from producers, particularly in the interior and mountain districts. Coastal resorts offer more holiday-oriented retail and galleries, while Bastia and Ajaccio have the broadest everyday choice. Check labelling and transport rules before buying food products, especially fresh cheese or meat, for a journey beyond France.

Show more shops

Get your free copy of our complete guide to Corsica, delivered straight to you.

Everything on this page, from attractions and restaurants to essentials and local phrases, in one PDF you can read offline, print or share.

Already have an account? Sign in

By clicking Create account, you accept the Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Corsica essentials

Currency and Payment
Corsica uses the euro, with the currency code EUR, as part of France. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in hotels, supermarkets, petrol stations, restaurants and larger shops, particularly in the main towns. Carry some cash for village bakeries, small markets, beach kiosks, rural suppliers and occasional smaller establishments, where card facilities may be limited or unreliable. Notify your bank before travelling if required, and choose to pay in euros rather than accepting an unfamiliar dynamic currency conversion at a card terminal or cash machine.
Safety
Corsica is generally suitable for visitors who take ordinary precautions, but its terrain creates risks that are less significant in urban France. Mountain paths can be rocky, exposed and poorly sheltered from heat, while weather can change quickly at altitude. Follow local advice about swimming, currents, fires and access to protected areas, and do not leave valuables visible in a parked car. Drive patiently on narrow roads, especially near villages and on coastal bends. In summer, heed wildfire warnings and restrictions, as dry vegetation and strong winds can make fires spread rapidly.
Emergency Situations
The national emergency number 112 connects visitors to emergency services in France and is particularly useful when language or location is difficult to explain. You can also call 15 for medical emergencies, 17 for police and 18 for fire and rescue. For incidents at sea, seek help through 196, the French maritime emergency number, or 112. Mountain walkers should carry a charged phone, share their route and consider a location device for remote sections. Give rescuers clear details of the nearest trail, road, cove or landmark.
Do's and Don'ts
Greet shopkeepers and hosts courteously, respect queues and ask permission before photographing people or private property. Dress appropriately when entering churches, and follow signs protecting archaeological sites, wildlife reserves and coastal habitats. Do not remove stones, plants or historical objects, light fires where prohibited, or drive onto beaches and unmarked tracks. In restaurants, service customs follow France, so tipping is discretionary rather than compulsory; rounding up or leaving a modest amount is appropriate for good service. Learning a few words of French, and recognising Corsican place names, is appreciated.
Local Tips
Plan around the island's geography: Bastia and Cap Corse, Balagne, the western coast, the Ajaccio area, the interior and the far south each merit separate travel time. Early starts are valuable in summer for beaches, boat excursions and popular walking routes, while inland villages can be cooler in the evening. Local markets are useful places to find brocciu when in season, chestnut products, honey, olive oil, wine and cured meats. For the GR20 and other serious walks, check water availability and transport logistics rather than assuming supplies will be available along the route.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloBonghjornu[bohn-jor-noo]
GoodbyeA revè[ah reh-veh]
YesIè[ee-eh]
NoÙn[oon]
Please/You’re welcomePer piacè[pehr pyah-cheh]
Thank youGrazie[grah-tsee-eh]
Excuse me/SorryMi scusi[mee skoo-zee]
How are you?Cumu stai?[koo-moo stai]
Fine. And you?Bene. È tù?[beh-neh eh too]
Do you speak English?Parli inglese?[par-lee een-gleh-zeh]
I don't understandNon capiscu[nohn kah-pees-koo]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseVogliu vede u menù, per piacè[voh-lyoo veh-deh oo meh-noo pehr pyah-cheh]
I don't eat meatNon manghju carne[nohn mahn-joo kar-neh]
Cheers!Salute![sah-loo-teh]
I would like to pay, pleaseVogliu pagà, per piacè[voh-lyoo pah-gah pehr pyah-cheh]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Aiutu![ah-yoo-too]
Go away!Andate via![ahn-dah-teh vee-ah]
Call the Police!Chjama a pulizia![kyah-mah ah poo-lee-tsee-ah]
Call a doctor!Chjama un duttore![kyah-mah oon doo-tor-eh]
I'm lostSò persu[soh pehr-soo]
I'm illSò malatu[soh mah-lah-too]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Vogliu cumprà...[voh-lyoo koom-prah]
I'm just lookingSò solu à guardà[soh soh-loo ah gwahr-dah]
How much is it?Quant'hè?[kwahn-teh]
That's too expensiveHè troppu caru[eh troh-poo kah-roo]
Can you lower the price?Pò abbassà u prezzu?[poh ah-bah-sah oo preh-tsoo]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Chì ora hè?[kee oh-rah eh]
It's one o'clockHè l'una[eh loo-nah]
Half past (10)Mez'ora (10)[mehz-oh-rah]
MorningMatina[mah-tee-nah]
AfternoonDopu meziornu[doh-poo meh-zee-oh-noo]
EveningSera[seh-rah]
YesterdayIeri[yeh-ree]
TodayOghje[oh-jay]
TomorrowDumane[doo-mah-neh]
1Unu[oo-noo]
2Dui[doo-ee]
3Tre[treh]
4Quattru[kwah-troo]
5Cinci[chin-chee]
6Sei[say]
7Sette[seh-tay]
8Ottu[oh-too]
9Nove[noh-veh]
10Dieci[dee-eh-chee]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Ind'è un/una...?[een-deh oon oo-nah]
What's the address?Chì hè l'indirizzu?[kee eh leen-dee-ree-tsoo]
Can you show me (on the map)?Pò mostrà mi (sul mappa)?[poh mohs-trah mee sool mah-pah]
When's the next (bus)?Quandu hè u prossimu (bus)?[kwahn-doo eh oo proh-see-moo]
A ticket (to ....)Un bigliettu (per ....)[oon bee-lyet-too pehr]

History of Corsica

Prehistoric Corsica and the Megalithic Tradition

Corsica was settled in prehistoric periods by communities that farmed, herded and traded across the western Mediterranean. The island contains numerous menhirs, dolmens and fortified prehistoric settlements, including the important archaeological site of Filitosa in the south-west. Its carved standing stones are among the most recognisable evidence of prehistoric Corsican culture, although their precise meanings remain debated. Bronze Age communities also built fortified villages and maintained maritime contacts with neighbouring islands and mainland coastlines. These remains establish a long history of local settlement before the island became incorporated into the political systems of Rome, Genoa or France.

Greek, Roman and Early Medieval Influences

Ancient Corsica was connected to the wider Mediterranean through trade and successive periods of influence. Greek settlers established Alalia, generally identified with modern Aléria, on the eastern coast, and the site later became important under Roman rule. Roman Corsica developed agricultural estates, roads and settlements, while Christianity gradually spread across the island. After the decline of Roman authority, Corsica experienced the political instability common to the western Mediterranean, with influence from successive regional powers and seaborne raiders. The archaeological site and museum at Aléria help explain this early history, although much of the island remained rural and difficult to control from any single centre.

Pisan and Genoese Rule

From the Middle Ages, Corsica became closely tied to maritime powers based in Italy. Pisa influenced the island's churches and administration before Genoa secured predominant control. Genoese authority lasted for centuries, though it was uneven and frequently challenged by local communities and rival powers. Genoa founded or strengthened coastal settlements, including Bastia, Calvi, Bonifacio and Ajaccio, and constructed watchtowers and defensive citadels to protect shipping and settlements from attack. The island's Romanesque churches, fortified towns and coastal towers reflect this period, while the difficult relationship between central authority and local communities continued to shape Corsican politics.

Pasquale Paoli and the Corsican Republic

In the eighteenth century, resistance to Genoese rule developed into a major political movement led by Pasquale Paoli. Paoli became the leading figure of an independent Corsican government from 1755, establishing institutions associated with the short-lived Corsican Republic and making Corte its political centre. The movement is remembered for its attempt to create representative government and for promoting Corsican identity. Genoa, unable to restore effective control, transferred its claims to France, which intervened militarily. French forces defeated Paoli's supporters at the Battle of Ponte Novu in 1769, bringing the republic's independence to an end.

Corsica under France and the Birth of Napoleon

Following the French conquest, Corsica was incorporated into the French state, although resistance and political tension continued. Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio in 1769, the same year as the decisive French victory over Paoli's forces. His family belonged to the island's lesser provincial nobility, and his birthplace is now preserved as the Maison Bonaparte. Napoleon's later career made Corsica internationally prominent, but the island's history cannot be reduced to his biography. Ajaccio's museums and civic spaces present both the imperial connection and the broader social and political setting of eighteenth-century Corsica.

Corsica in the Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Centuries

Modern French administration brought new roads, schools and administrative structures, but Corsica remained relatively poor and geographically isolated compared with much of mainland France. Mountain agriculture, chestnut cultivation, pastoralism, olive growing and maritime activity remained important, while many islanders emigrated to mainland France or abroad. Coastal towns expanded gradually, and the island's strategic position gave it military significance. The First and Second World Wars affected Corsican communities through mobilisation, occupation and resistance. Bastia and other ports also retained commercial links across the Tyrrhenian Sea, reinforcing Corsica's connections with Italy and the wider Mediterranean.

Tourism, Regional Identity and Contemporary Corsica

From the later twentieth century, improved ferry links, airports, roads and holiday infrastructure transformed Corsica's economy. Tourism brought substantial development to coastal areas, especially around Porto-Vecchio, Calvi, the Balagne and the Ajaccio region, while many inland villages remained more lightly visited. At the same time, campaigns for greater cultural recognition and political autonomy strengthened the public presence of the Corsican language and historical memory. Contemporary Corsica is therefore both a French region and a strongly expressed island society, balancing mass summer tourism with protected landscapes, agricultural traditions, heritage conservation and efforts to manage pressure on coasts and mountain environments.

Corsica in Photos

Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.

0 / 0

Neighbouring regions of Corsica

The closest regions to Corsica, if you have time for more than one.

Explore more

France
More of the region

Explore more of France

Explore France: A land of romance, history, and unparalleled beauty, from the iconic streets of Paris to the serene landscapes of Provence and the luxury of the French Riviera.

Explore France
The Evendo app on two phones

Evendo - Your Ultimate Travel Companion to Corsica

Discover Corsica like never before with Evendo - a 100% free app-based travel guide covering attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and much more.

  • Detailed guides on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities
  • Rich set of information including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences
Download on the App Store Get it on Google Play
More about the Evendo app

Planning a trip to Corsica? Evendo is the ultimate travel guide app that helps you explore the island’s best attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more. Download for free today!

  • Comprehensive history of Corsica
  • Travel essentials for visiting Corsica
  • Curated local advice to get the most out of your visit
  • User-friendly navigation through the app and the destination
  • "Near me" feature to discover nearby points of interest
  • 100% free with no in-app purchases or additional costs

Are you ready to explore the breathtaking island of Corsica, France? With Evendo, your travel experience will be nothing short of extraordinary. This 100% free app-based travel guide provides detailed information on all the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, experiences, and activities in Corsica.

Imagine visiting the iconic Calanques de Piana, strolling through the ancient streets of Bonifacio, or soaking up the sun on Saleccia Beach. Evendo not only guides you to these renowned landmarks but also offers rich information, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details to make planning your trip effortless.

Hungry for authentic Corsican cuisine? Discover top-rated restaurants like La Table de Bastien in Ajaccio or the rustic U Palazzu in Sartène. With Evendo, you can easily find and book dining experiences, ensuring you savor every moment of your culinary journey.

Why waste time figuring out logistics when you can book hotels, tours, tickets, and experiences directly through the app? Evendo consolidates everything you need in one place, making it easier than ever to navigate Corsica and maximize your adventure.

In addition to Corsica, Evendo covers 7,000+ destinations worldwide. Once you have downloaded the app, you have the world in your pocket, ready to guide you on your next adventure.

Get the latest from Evendo

Hand-picked travel deals, new destination guides and trip ideas, straight to your inbox.