Travelling in Corsica: ideal destinations to relax and explore

Looking for accommodation in Corsica? In this guide we will give you tips on where to sleep and what to do in Corsica. Corsica is one of the most fascinating destinations in the Mediterranean because of its intense and beautiful nature.


Your holiday in Corsica will not lack sea, mountains, culture, good food nor good wine. It will be a complete holiday!


Corsica is a holiday that can satisfy any traveler. Many, however, think that this is an expensive destination, but this is actually not always the case: fantastic accommodation alternatives can be found even in high season.

You just have to make your choice between hotels, residences, campsites (this is an option to consider if you are young and/or adventurous), holiday villages or B&Bs. What kind of holiday do you want to take? This is the question you must ask yourself and, based on the answer, plan your trip. 



Let us now see in the next paragraph where to stay in Corsica.


Where to stay in Corsica?


We have selected for you 5 accommodations in Corsica that might suit you



None of these solutions suit you? View the Bluepillow - accommodation in Corsica page and find the one that suits you.


Finding an accommodation solution in Corsica implies, first of all, a choice on the type of accommodation you want to book, such as:


  • Hotel: common accommodation choice, especially on the beach. Usually this option is slightly more expensive because it includes multiple services;
  • Residence: option for longer stays, more recommended for families;
  • Campsites: a solution for nature lovers, sports enthusiasts and younger people;
  • Rentals and tourist houses: for a more authentic experience. This option is for those who want to immerse themselves more in the local culture;
  • Guest rooms: alternative to large hotels, slightly cheaper and more affordable for those without a big budget;
  • Holiday villages: for comprehensive services. An option for parents with one or more children who wish to have everything at their fingertips;
  • Holiday centres: an option offering activities and entertainment;
  • Staged accommodation: ideal for itineraries that involve visiting several places;
  • Mountain huts: for hikers and mountain lovers.


There is no doubt that Corsica is a destination full of attractions, so it is important to have a clear plan of which areas to visit.


Let us explore this in the next section.


What are the best areas to visit?



Among the many destinations we would recommend you visit in Corsica are the following:


Saint-Florent

Saint-Florent is a charming fishing village located on the north-western coast of Corsica. Renowned for its picturesque harbour, this charming place offers a splendid view of the Gulf of Saint-Florent. Strolling through its cobbled streets, one can find restaurants serving delicious fresh fish dishes and shops selling local handicrafts. An attraction not to be missed is the Genovese citadel, which offers breathtaking views of the sea and surrounding countryside.


Course Leader

Cap Corse, often described as the 'finger of Corsica', is a peninsula stretching along the north of the island. Ideal for a day trip, this region boasts spectacular views, sheer cliffs and picturesque villages such as Nonza and Centuri. Hiking enthusiasts can take the trails through wild, unspoilt landscapes, while history lovers can explore the ancient Genoese watchtowers along the coast.


Citadel of Porto Vecchio 

The Citadel of Porto Vecchio, built in the 16th century by the Genoese, is one of Corsica's most fascinating tourist attractions. Situated atop a hill, the citadel offers panoramic views of the city and harbour. Inside the walls, narrow cobbled streets host craft shops, outdoor cafés and restaurants serving Corsican specialities. It is the ideal place to immerse yourself in the island's history and culture.


Agriates Desert

The Agriates Desert, located near Calvi, is an almost uninhabited wilderness area offering rugged and unspoilt landscapes. Despite its name, it is not a real desert, but a region characterised by Mediterranean scrub, isolated beaches and scenic trails. Perfect for nature lovers and hikers, the Agriates Desert boasts spectacular beaches such as Plage de Saleccia and Plage de Loto, accessible only on foot or by boat.


Calvi 

Calvi is one of Corsica's most charming towns, known for its historic citadel, fine sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located on the north-western coast of the island, Calvi offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to cosy bed & breakfasts. The Genovese citadel, with its imposing walls and narrow streets, is a must-see for visitors. In addition, Calvi is an excellent starting point for exploring the nearby Agriates Desert or for hiking in the surrounding mountains.


Ajaccio 

Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is a vibrant city steeped in history, best known for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Located on the west coast of the island, Ajaccio offers numerous tourist attractions, including the Maison Bonaparte, now a museum dedicated to the emperor's life, and the Ajaccio Cathedral. The city's lively daily market is the ideal place to buy local products such as cheese, salami and Corsican wines. Ajaccio's beaches, such as Plage Saint-François and Plage de Capo di Feno, are perfect for relaxing in the sun.


Porto Vecchio 

Porto Vecchio is an important port in Corsica and one of the island's most popular tourist destinations. Located on the south-eastern coast, the town is famous for its spectacular beaches, including the renowned Palombaggia and Santa Giulia beaches, characterised by white sand and turquoise waters. Besides the beaches, Porto Vecchio boasts a picturesque old town with cobbled streets, shady squares and a lively nightlife. The port of Porto Vecchio is a main arrival point for ferries from France and Italy, making it an ideal base for exploring the island.


What are the recommended beaches in Corsica



Corsica is famous for its enchanting beaches, fine sand, clear waters and breathtaking panoramas. Here are five beaches that we recommend you visit during your stay on the island.


Plage de Palombaggia

Palombaggia, located near Porto Vecchio, is one of Corsica's most popular beaches. With its white sand and turquoise waters, it is the perfect place to relax and swim. The beach is surrounded by a pine forest that offers shady areas, ideal for finding some relief during the hottest hours.

 

Plage de Santa Giulia

Santa Giulia, near Porto Vecchio, is also a spectacular beach with white sand and calm, shallow waters, ideal for those travelling with children. This picturesque bay is perfect for swimming and snorkelling thanks to its excellent underwater visibility. The beach is well equipped with bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local delicacies.


Saleccia Beach

In the Agriates Desert lies Saleccia beach, one of the most unspoilt in Corsica. Accessible only on foot, by boat or 4x4 vehicles, Saleccia offers extraordinary natural beauty with its fine sand and turquoise waters. It is the ideal place for those seeking tranquillity and authentic contact with nature.


Plage de Rondinara

Rondinara, located between Porto Vecchio and Bonifacio, is famous for its horseshoe shape that creates a sheltered bay with calm, crystal-clear waters. This beach is perfect for families, thanks to its shallow waters and the services available, such as bars and restaurants. The surrounding vegetation offers numerous shaded areas.


Sagone Beach

Sagone, located on Corsica's west coast, is ideal for swimming in clear waters and engaging in water sports. With its long stretch of golden sand, it is perfect for activities such as windsurfing, kayaking and paddleboarding. Sagone is also a family-friendly beach, thanks to its safe and shallow waters.

These five beaches represent just a part of the coastal wonders that Corsica has to offer. Whether you are looking for relaxation in the sun, water adventures or a safe place for your children, Corsica has the perfect beach for every need.


Of these five recommended beaches, Plage de Santa Giulia, spiaggia de Rondinara and that of Sagone are ideal for families travelling with children.


Would you also like to consider other travel options in France for seaside destinations? Visit the Bluepillow - France page and find the perfect destination for you!


What water sports to try in Corsica


Corsica, with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking coastline, is the ideal place to explore a wide range of water sports. The opportunities for sea lovers are endless, from the most relaxing to the most adventurous activities.


Snorkelling 

Corsica's transparent waters are perfect for snorkelling. The calm bays and sandy and rocky seabed allow you to explore an underwater world rich in marine life. Among the best places for snorkelling are the beaches of Palombaggia and Santa Giulia, where you can admire colourful fish, starfish and other fascinating creatures.


Swimming

Swimming is an activity that can be practised almost anywhere along the island's coastline. The beaches of Rondinara and Saleccia offer calm, shallow waters that are ideal for safe swimming. The transparent waters allow you to fully enjoy the experience, swimming in a spectacular natural environment.


Kayaking and Paddleboarding

For those who like to explore the coast actively, kayaking and paddleboarding are perfect activities. Corsica's protected bays and inlets offer breathtaking routes for these activities. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards at many beaches, such as Sagone, and set off on an adventure to discover hidden coves and impressive cliffs.


Windsurfing and Kitesurfing

Thanks to its constant winds, Corsica is a paradise for windsurfers and kitesurfers. The beaches of Calvi and Porto Pollo are among the best for practising these sports. With windsurfing and kitesurfing schools available in many locations, even beginners can experience the thrill of riding the waves blown by the wind. 


Scuba Diving

Scuba diving is another popular activity in Corsica, thanks to the richness of its seabed. Dive sites near Porto Vecchio and the Scandola Nature Reserve offer unique experiences with underwater caves, wrecks and amazing biodiversity. Local diving schools offer courses and guided dives for all levels of experience.

Corsica, with its beautiful waters and breathtaking landscapes, is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for adventure or a relaxing activity, you are sure to find the perfect experience for you on the island.


Do you want to book your water sports time? On Getyouguide, you will find plenty of alternatives of excursions to do in Corsica, tourist and/or sporting, ideal for you.



Frequently asked questions about travelling to Corsica:


What are the main attractions?


Corsica offers numerous attractions, including the citadel of Bonifacio, a mediaeval fortress dominating spectacular limestone cliffs; the Agriates Desert, an unspoilt wilderness area with isolated beaches; and the Scandola Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site with unique land and seascapes. In addition, the cities of Ajaccio and Calvi offer rich cultural and historical experiences, with museums, markets and historical monuments.


What to do in Porto Vecchio?


In Porto Vecchio, you can explore its charming historic centre with cobbled streets and picturesque squares, visit the Genoese citadel for a panoramic view of the city and harbour, and relax on the beautiful nearby beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia. In addition, Porto Vecchio is an excellent starting point for excursions into the surrounding mountains and offers a lively nightlife with numerous bars and restaurants.


Macinaggio: where to sleep in Cap Corse


Here are a couple of alternatives for you: Hotel URICORDU and SPA - U Libecciu.



17.05.2024

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