Corsica Travel is a relatively unknown destination, but it has a lot to offer outdoor enthusiasts.
Lonely beaches and beautiful nature are the two most important things that you are sure to find when visiting Corsica.
Corsica can without a doubt be described as a paradise for hikers and those who love it Spend time in nature. Many also know Corsica and the Cital Ajaccio as that Birthplace of Noleon Bonarte (Emperor of the French from 1804-1815).
Corsica can look back on a history that goes back to the Mesolithic. Over the centuries the island was occupied by the Greeks, the Roman Empire, the Saracens, the Franks and the Genoese. The year 1729 is considered to be the beginning of the Corsican Revolution of Independence. In 1755, after 26 years, the independent Corsican Republic was established and remained sovereign until 1769, when it was conquered by France.
Corsica isn’t the most popular place to visit, but you can find artifacts or bungalows at normal prices if you do your research. There are also plenty of campsites to choose from.
Corsica travel guide
Our Corsica travel guide has everything you need to know.
What language is spoken in Corsica?
The French and Italians are known as „language-shy” people. It is therefore highly recommended that you learn at least some French or Italian sentences. Or be ready to use show of hands. Many people also speak Corsican (Corsu), which is quite similar to Italian.
How to get to Corsica
Corsica is located in the Mediterranean Sea, southeast of mainland France and north of Sardinia. The island has good (2 or more daily) ferry connections to Italy (Livorno, Genoa, Savona …) and to the French south coast (Nice, Toulon, …). There are also ferry crossings to Sardinia (Italy).
You can find the ferry prices by purchasing them in advance. Prices can be lowered if your dates are flexible. In this way you can make good use of the special prices for late crossings or the special prices for „Joker”.
There are also many options for Flights from major European cities, for those who want to fly to Corsica. The only major international airport is in Ajaccio.
How to get around in Corsica
Public transport in Corsica is very poor, so the best option is to get around by car. Either you rent one, have your own, or hitchhike. The railways provide stunning views for road travelers, but the trains are slower and limited to the three lines that connect Ajaccio to Corte, Bastia and Calvi. Getting around Corsica by bus can become a nightmare. Avoid buses whenever possible.
Main bus routes
- Bastia to Corte (1 hour 30 minutes) and Ajaccio (3 hours);
- Bastia to Ill Rousse (1 hour 40 minutes) and Calvi (2 hours 20 minutes);
- Calvi to Porto (2 hours 30 minutes);
- Ajaccio to Propriano (2 hours) and Porto Vecchio (3 hours 30 minutes);
- Porto Vecchio to Bastia;
Activities in Corsica
Hiking in Corsia
The island is a hiker’s paradise. It offers many well-marked hiking trails. The best known is probably the 200 km long GR20, which attracts thousands of hikers every year. The best hiking spots are in central Corsica (it’s listed as one of the best spots for hiking and camping in Europe).
Some places worth seeing for hikers are the valleys of Restonica and Tavignano in the center of Corsica.
The island also offers other long and short hiking trails such as: Mare a Mare (north, center, south), Sentier l’Ile Rousse – Corte, Monte Stello on C Corse.
Sports / beaches in Corsica
From skiing in the winter months to water sports in other seasons. Corsica has it all. Many sandy beaches all over the island will also convince single, couple and family travelers.
The more touristic well-known beaches in the north (around Calvi, Llle Rousse and Algajola) are very crowded in the summer months (July, August) and should therefore be avoided. There are beautiful beaches all over the island. So everyone can find a beach for themselves.
Other things to do in Corsica
Climbing, river fishing, kayaking, canoeing, rafting, horse trekking (as well as dog trekking), paragliding, cycling, diving
Sightseeing in Corsica
Because of the range and long history, there are many places to see. Galleries and museums are mainly located in big cities like Ajaccio, Bastia, Boniffaccio, Corte and Porto Vecchio. Especially the citadel and the castle in Boniffacio and Corte should not be missing. Genoese watchtowers can be seen all over the island.
Other places to see are:
- Villages of Balagne – Speloncato, San Antonino, Belgodere and many more. See the walk around Balagne from Lumio to Algajola;
- Sartene called „the most Corsican of all Corsican cities” in the south;
- Filitosa, not far from Sartene, with Neolithic megaliths and menhirs between 1000 year old olive trees.
Night life in Corsica
The nightlife and club scene are located in tourist centers and major cities.
Overnight in Corsica
The island offers many good places to stay at moderate prices. It is recommended to book in advance. The summer months are sometimes reserved 1 year in advance.
For those who enjoy camping and being one with nature, there are many camps to choose from. Reservations in camps are usually not possible, so you should be at the camp as soon as possible in the morning. The camping prices for 2 people, car, tent and electricity are around 32 € / day. Those who travel with pets will find that many camps allow pets.
With the exception of camping or mountain huts, always book your accommodation in advance, especially if you are going to Corsica during the high season.
Find accommodation below:
Insider Corsica travel tips
- Avoid going to Corsica during the crowded tourist summer months (July, August). In July and August, many Italians and French people spend their summer holidays in Corsica. The streets are often flooded with cars. The best months to visit are May, June, September and October.
- Book the flight / ferry ticket in advance.
- Book the accommodation in advance.
- Try some local specialties
- Chestnut-based products
- Sheep cheese
- Wild boar sausage
- Seafood specialties
- Drive the scenic coastal roads in western Corsica.
- Hike the GR20 (it usually takes 10-14 days).
Corsica is a beautiful island with lots to see and try. My next visit will take me to the GR20 hiking trail.
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