Corsica, France Travel Guide

Discover Corsica: A Mediterranean paradise blending French charm and Italian zest, offering stunning landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine.

Corsica, an island in the Mediterranean Sea, offers an enchanting blend of French and Italian cultures. Known for its rugged landscape, pristine beaches, and charming villages, Corsica is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The island's diverse terrain ranges from mountainous regions perfect for hiking to serene coastal areas ideal for relaxation. Ajaccio, the capital city, is famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Here, you can visit his childhood home, now a museum, and explore the vibrant local markets. The ancient town of Bonifacio, perched precariously on limestone cliffs, provides breathtaking views and historical intrigue with its medieval architecture. For outdoor enthusiasts, the GR20 hiking trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience, winding through some of the island's most dramatic scenery. The Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another must-visit, featuring unique rock formations and a rich marine life ideal for snorkeling and diving. Corsica's rich culinary traditions will delight food lovers. Savor the local specialties such as figatellu (a type of sausage), brocciu cheese, and chestnut-based dishes. The island's vineyards produce some exceptional wines that perfectly complement the local cuisine.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Corsica.

Visit in the shoulder seasons (April-June and September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.
Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the island's diverse landscapes and remote areas.
Pack comfortable hiking shoes if you plan to explore Corsica's famous trails like the GR20.
Try to learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it can enhance your travel experience.
Book accommodations and popular activities in advance, especially during the peak summer months.

Explore Corsica: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Corsica

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Lonca Canyoning

Discover the exhilarating landscapes of Lonca Canyoning in Corsica for an unforgettable adventure amid nature's splendor.

4.6

Calanques de Piana

Discover the Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Corsica, where red granite cliffs meet turquoise waters, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.

4.9

Scandola Natural Reserve

Discover Scandola Natural Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Corsica, where dramatic volcanic landscapes meet vibrant marine life in a protected coastal paradise.

4.8

Le cœur de la Corse

Discover the romantic heart of Corsica within the stunning Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering breathtaking views, hiking, and boat tours along the rugged coastline.

4.8

Best landmarks in Corsica

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Parc naturel régional de Corse

Experience the unspoiled beauty of Corsica's national park, where majestic mountains meet the azure sea in a breathtaking natural landscape.

4.7

Calanques de Piana

Discover the breathtaking Calanques de Piana in Corsica: a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning red rock formations and turquoise waters.

4.9

Scandola Natural Reserve

Explore Corsica's Scandola Nature Reserve: A UNESCO-listed paradise of volcanic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and pristine Mediterranean beauty.

4.8

Citadelle de Bonifacio

Explore the historic Citadelle de Bonifacio, a Genoese fortress with stunning views of the Mediterranean and Corsican coast.

4.8

Best restaurants in Corsica

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The Sheepfold of Acciola

Discover authentic French and Mediterranean cuisine at The Sheepfold of Acciola in Sartène—a true taste of Corsican tradition.

4.9

A Chabraka

Discover the flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at A Chabraka in Porto-Vecchio – where every dish tells a story.

4.7

Le Santana

Experience exquisite French cuisine at Le Santana in Coggia—where every meal comes with breathtaking sea views.

4.7

Restaurant Furana Porto Vecchio

Experience the essence of Mediterranean cuisine at Restaurant Furana in Porto Vecchio – where every meal is a celebration of flavor and family.

4.5

Best bars in Corsica

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Licciola

Explore Licciola, a charming bar and cafe in Palasca, where local flavors and stunning views create an unforgettable experience.

4.8

Le Lodge

Experience the vibrant culinary and cultural scene at Le Lodge in Ajaccio. Indulge in tapas, fine wines, and live music for an unforgettable evening.

4.3

Sea lounge

Experience culinary excellence at Sea Lounge, Porto-Vecchio’s premier bar and Mediterranean restaurant on the idyllic Palombaggia beach.

4.2

Café Les Platanes

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Café Les Platanes in L'Île-Rousse, the perfect spot for relaxation and enjoyment.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Corsica

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Clint

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Clint in Porto-Vecchio, where music, dance, and unforgettable experiences await every night.

2.1

Disco Sun

Experience unforgettable nights at Disco Sun, a premier night club in Grosseto-Prugna, where music and dance come alive.

2.5

Le vintage club - Bastia

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bastia at Le Vintage Club, a must-visit disco destination filled with energy and excitement.

4.6

Discothèque la Place - Ajaccio

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Ajaccio at Discothèque la Place, a vibrant night club where music and dance come alive until dawn.

3.1

Best shops in Corsica

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L’Atrium

Discover L’Atrium, Corsica's premier shopping destination, offering a blend of fashion, dining, and cultural experiences for every visitor.

4.2

La Galerie - La Rocade Furiani

Discover an exceptional shopping experience at La Galerie - a vibrant mall with boutiques, dining, and entertainment options in Furiani.

4.1

La Rocade Mezzavia

Discover a vibrant shopping experience at La Rocade Mezzavia in Ajaccio, featuring boutiques, hypermarkets, and delicious restaurants to explore.

4.0

Grand Ajaccio Baléone - Centre Commercial

Explore the vibrant shopping scene at Grand Ajaccio Baléone, a must-visit mall in Sarrola-Carcopino, combining retail therapy with exquisite dining and entertainment.

4.5

Explore Corsica on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Corsica, mapped for you.

Corsica Essentials

Corsica is accessible by air and sea. The island has four airports: Ajaccio Napoléon Bonaparte Airport (AJA), Bastia Poretta Airport (BIA), Calvi – Sainte-Catherine Airport (CLY), and Figari Sud-Corse Airport (FSC). These airports have regular flights to and from mainland France and other European destinations. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Marseille, Nice, or Toulon in France, or from Italian ports such as Livorno and Genoa. Ferries dock at major Corsican ports including Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and Porto-Vecchio.
Corsica offers various transportation options, including rental cars, buses, and trains. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. Public buses connect major towns and cities, though service can be infrequent, especially in rural areas. The Corsican Railway (Chemins de Fer de la Corse) offers a scenic way to travel between Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi. Taxis are available but can be expensive for long distances.
The official currency in Corsica is the Euro (EUR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns and cities, but may be scarce in more remote locations, so plan accordingly.
Corsica is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any tourist destination, it is important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious in areas such as Bastia's old port and Ajaccio's city center, especially at night. Avoid isolated areas after dark and keep your belongings secure.
In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in major towns such as Ajaccio, Bastia, and Calvi. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are readily available for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress smart-casual, especially when dining out or visiting more upscale areas. Avoid wearing beachwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local religious customs; dress modestly and cover shoulders when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do validate your bus or train ticket upon boarding. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir' depending on the time of day. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and wines, and always accept invitations to join meals. Don't rush through meals; dining is a leisurely experience in Corsica.
To experience Corsica like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns such as Ajaccio and Bastia where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and proud to share their culture and history. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike the GR20, one of Europe’s most challenging and beautiful long-distance trails. Enjoy the local music and traditional polyphonic singing, often performed at festivals and village events.

When is the best time to visit Corsica?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Corsica

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Corsica. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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]
- 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

Corsica has been inhabited since the Mesolithic era. The island's strategic location in the Mediterranean attracted various ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and the Etruscans. The ancient site of Filitosa, with its mysterious megalithic menhirs, provides a glimpse into Corsica's prehistoric past.
In 238 BC, Corsica was annexed by the Roman Republic, along with its neighboring island Sardinia. Roman rule brought stability, infrastructure, and integration into the wider Roman economy. The remains of Roman structures, such as the Aléria archaeological site, highlight the Roman influence on the island.
During the medieval period, Corsica experienced a series of invasions and power struggles. The island was controlled by various feudal lords and external powers, including the Republic of Pisa and the Republic of Genoa. The Genoese towers scattered along the coastline are lasting symbols of this era.
Pasquale Paoli, born in 1725, is a celebrated Corsican patriot and leader. He led the Corsican Republic and established a democratic constitution in 1755. Paoli's efforts to secure Corsican independence are commemorated in numerous monuments and places named after him across the island.
In 1768, Corsica was sold to France by the Republic of Genoa. The island formally became a French territory in 1769, following the defeat of Pasquale Paoli's forces. This period marked significant cultural and administrative changes for the Corsican people.
One of Corsica's most famous sons, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born in Ajaccio in 1769. His childhood home, Maison Bonaparte, is now a museum dedicated to his legacy. Napoleon's rise to power and imperial ambitions had a lasting impact on both Corsica and the wider world.
During World War II, Corsica was occupied by Axis powers but also became a center of strong resistance movements. The island was liberated by Allied and Free French forces in 1943. The bravery of Corsican resistance fighters is remembered in various memorials and commemorations.
In recent decades, Corsica has seen movements advocating for greater autonomy. The island has a distinct culture, language, and identity, which are celebrated through festivals, traditional music, and cuisine. Efforts to preserve the Corsican language and heritage continue to shape the island's modern identity.