corsica road trip

How to Plan a Unique Corsica Road Trip: 7-day Itinerary

Are you dreaming of holidays in Corsica? Follow my 7-day Corsica road trip itinerary. Discover the “Ile de Beauté”, with its dreamy beaches, crystal clear water, jagged mountains, and charming towns. This Corsica itinerary will make you fall in love with one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful islands.

Hiking in the Dolomites or a road trip to Corsica? That was my dilemma when I had to choose the destination and the travel style for my birthday trip. I never get tired of the mountains, and I like traveling by public transportation. Indeed, I gave up having a car years ago. However, I was keen to make a road trip again,  as I did in Northern Ireland along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route . It felt good being free to stop wherever I felt like and to stay at a place as long as I wished.

Don’t get me wrong. I still love mingling with locals on the bus, the train, or the boat, especially in faraway countries with different cultures. However, the truth is that in some places getting around by public transportation means seeing very little, and hiring a car is almost paramount

Corsica is one of those places. Because only by car (or motorbike or, if you’re not scared by steep climbs, by bike) one can discover the contrasts of the Ile de Beauté as the island is often called in French.

Visiting Corsica… Once again

So I decided. I would go back to Corsica, France, on a solo road trip.

I visited Corsica several times previously, but I hadn’t been back for a few years. Being one of my favorite spots in the Mediterranean, I was keen to spend one week in Corsica and explore hidden corners of the island I hadn’t visited before.

If you wonder why Corsica holidays are always a good idea, no matter how many times you have visited, let me tell you that it’s hard not to fall in love with Corsica. The island has it all (or almost). Breathtaking beaches with crystal-clear water, jaw-dropping mountain sceneries, delightful small villages where time seems to have stopped, beautiful forests and rivers, all in an area of about 8,800 sqm.

How to plan your Corsica road trip itinerary

Once bought my flight to Ajaccio, I started studying the map to draw my Corsica road trip itinerary. I was willing to include some Corsica must see places, as well as spending time in the Corsica mountains. I had to make choices, though, as a week in Corsica is not enough to explore the entire island unless you want to spend all the time behind the wheel. Over the years, I grew more and more fond of slow travel, willing to see less but experience and taste more.

I eventually decided to focus on Corsica’s western coast and cross inland almost in the middle of the island. I would drive along the coast and to the mountains, visit charming villages, and enjoy the beautiful beaches. And I also craved a couple of short hikes.

I like freedom when I travel, and I try to limit planning as much as possible so that I can change my mind along the way. However, Corsica in Summer gets busy. So I built up a 7-day itinerary to visit some of the most beautiful places in Corsica.

Corsica road trip: Know before you go

How to get to Corsica

By air : Corsica has four airports: Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and the smaller Figari in the south. International flights are limited to Europe. Therefore, if you’re coming from overseas, your most likely ports of call are Paris,  London, Frankfurt, and Zurich. Many flights to Corsica from France and other European cities are only seasonal, so it’s better to  check and book  as soon as possible.

By ferry: Bastia, Ajaccio, and Calvi are connected by ferry from Italy (Savona, Genova, Livorno) and France (Marseille, Toulon). If you plan to travel to Corsica with your car in high season (July-August), I recommend booking in advance for better fares.

Best time to visit Corsica

Although I’d be curious to see Corsica in Winter, the best time to visit Corsica is from April to late September, mid-October . If possible, avoid July and August, which are the busiest months and also very hot for hiking. Additionally, should you plan holidays in Corsica in July and August, choose your accommodation and book well in advance.

Driving in Corsica

Allow plenty of time, as most roads are winding, often narrow, and sometimes in poor conditions. Driving in Corsica can also be challenging due to animals crossing the streets (wild boars, goats, etc.). Drive slowly and with caution, and buy full-coverage car insurance.

Car rental in Corsica

Corsica airports have booths of several car rental companies. If you’re envisaging a Corsica road trip in the high season, I recommend booking a car well in advance. Check the prices and book your car .

Accommodation in Corsica

Corsica accommodations range from simple guesthouses to luxury hotels and apartments. Camping in Corsica is also very popular, as well as basic lodging for hikers. Read further and find out where to stay in Corsica on this 7-day itinerary.

A week in Corsica by car: itinerary

Day 1 – ajaccio to sartène.

From Ajaccio airport, I went directly to the car rental booth, where everything went smoothly. In a matter of minutes, I picked up my car and started my Corsica road trip heading south and inland to Sartène .

Perched atop a rock, with its medieval structure, narrow alleys, and granite houses, Sartène somehow epitomizes the essence of Corsica: secluded, closed, sometimes even a little rough, although also capable of great warmth.

As I often do, I explored Sartène wandering around aimlessly,  getting lost in the tiny streets, and admiring the tall granite buildings which date back to the 16th century. Camera in hand, I couldn’t choose which corner I should take a picture of. They were all so pretty. The town is small, so even walking slowly and stopping every few steps, I didn’t need much time to discover the nicest spots. I took a break sitting on the terrace of a cute cafè, people-watching and just taking in the sense of peace surrounding me.

Day 2 – Sartène, Zonza, Bavella

Crossing the pretty village of Zonza , the winding road toward the mountains rewarded me with stunning views. Here and there, I spotted wild pigs walking alongside the road, sometimes even lying unconcerned on the pavement and slowly moving away as I approached.

Suddenly, the Aiguilles de Bavella (the ‘Bavella Needles’) appeared on the horizon, with beautiful rocks and peaks dominating the landscape. I had been anticipating a beautiful hike at one of the most scenic mountain areas of Corsica, but when I arrived, there were so many people that I gave up. The scenery is indeed breathtaking, but it was far too crowded for my taste. It’s worth going back in Spring or Autumn, though.

Day 3 – Corte

With its narrow streets leading up to the citadel and the old houses looking a little unkempt, Corte is charming. As you stroll this in the lovely alleys, you’ll hardly think that Corte was the former capital of Corsica during the short period in which the island achieved independence in the mid-18th Century.

The Corsican Republic was short-lived, but the old town maintained its pride and scrupulously kept its traditions, starting from the language.

Seen from below, the houses perched on the hill make for a lovely composition, while from atop, the citadel overlooks the surrounding mountains and forests of the Regional Natural Park of Corsica . Corte is one of the most beautiful towns in Corsica and a must-see.

Day 4 – Hiking the Restonica Valley

The nearby Restonica Valley , which I had never visited before, is well known for its beautiful hikes. I couldn’t miss it this time, and after breakfast, I started the drive along the narrow and somewhat bumpy road.

I picked up randomly one of the many trails crisscrossing the Restonica Valley and started the ascent, surrounded by breathtaking wild scenery. Rocks sculpted by erosion, green pine trees bent by the strong winds, and clouds running fast in a cobalt blue sky. Surprisingly, I met only a handful of people along the trail, which made my hike all the most enjoyable. Hiking in Corsica is extremely popular , and the island boasts the GR-20 , one of the best long-distance treks in Europe.

The Restonica Valley ended up being one of the highlights of my Corsica road trip and a place I wouldn’t have been able to reach without a car.

Day 5 – Corte to Ota

More winding roads through the mountains, and then, the blue sea appeared on the horizon. Time for a change of scenery, from the rocks to water. I could hear my stomach grumbling, reclaiming attention. Shortly after, I approached Algajola, a lovely fortified small town along the coast, almost halfway between Ile Rousse and Calvi, and a lovely spot for a lunch break.

I treated myself to a dish of delicious fresh fish and a glass of cold local white wine. The sandy beach was too tempting, so I went for a long walk and a short bath before entering the car once again. I continued my journey heading back inland to the enchanting village of Ota .

From the Gulf of Porto, the sole UNESCO World Heritage Site in Corsica , the road climbs up to Ota, a delightful hamlet leaning against the mountain. It’s an oasis of peace, popular with hikers coming here for daily excursions or stopping along the Mare e Monti hiking trail .

Day 6 – Ota and the Gorges de Spelunca

Small and secluded, Ota was the perfect place to relax. Afterward, I went for a scenic drive and a day hike to the beautiful Gorges de Spelunca.

Back from my walk, I chilled out on a terrace overlooking the mountains and the village. Sipping a drink, I watched the colors of the houses getting warmer hues as the sun started setting down.

Ota invites you to stop for a couple of days to enjoy the silence, the beautiful scenery, and the life of the locals along the streets or at the bar. A corner of authentic Corsica I thoroughly liked.

Day 7 – Ota to Ajaccio

The last leg of my Corsica road trip was also the most scenic. I left Ota shortly after sunrise and reached the Calanques of Piana . The sun was still low.  And the rocks, shaded in pink, made a beautiful contrast with the deep blue of the water beneath.

I stopped at a couple of viewpoints, striving to catch as much as possible of this awe-inspiring beauty. I was willing to fix into my eyes and memory the sight of one of the most beautiful sceneries in the Mediterranean. The Calanques de Piana are one of the unmissable attractions in Corsica and should be included in any Corsica itinerary.

Sadly, my Corsica holidays had come to an end, and I retook the road down to Ajaccio. As I drove back to the airport, I couldn’t help feeling a bit melancholy. A week in Corsica passed in a heartbeat. At the same time, I was pleased because, after more than ten years, Corsica was as beautiful as I remembered it. It was only a goodbye. I know I’ll be back.

Where to stay in Corsica

Corsica is not a cheap destination, especially if you are a solo traveler. If you’re looking for budget accommodations in Corsica, your best bet is staying at the Gites d’étape. These are hostels popular with hikers, mostly in small villages, offering accommodation in dormitories, usually with half-board.

Although somewhat pricey, Corsica boasts many beautiful accommodations, often with stunning views. Here’s a selection of hotels in some of the most beautiful towns and areas of the island:

Accommodation in Sartène and nearby

The colorful Rossi Hotel is only 1,2 km from Sartène. It features a terrace with panoramic views of Sartène and the countryside and an outdoor swimming pool, which is a good option if you’re visiting Corsica with kids.

Maredda 2 is a charming apartment tastefully decorated. Located less than 1 km from Sartène center, it features several amenities, including air conditioning.

Best Western Plus San Damianu :  The hotel features modern and bright rooms with a balcony, an outdoor swimming pool, and a large terrace with superb views of Sartène and the surrounding landscape.

Propriano (14 km / 9 mi from Sartène, 15-20 min drive)

Miramar Boutique Hotel :  Modern and stylish, it overlooks the Gulf of Valinco and its beautiful beaches. Amenities include a heated outdoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a spa. Perfect for a romantic getaway and a relaxing holiday.

Résidence & Hôtel Aria Marina : Overlooking the Gulf of Valinco, Aria Marina Hotel and Residence features tastefully decorated self-catered apartments with a balcony and a terrace with superb views.

Olmeto (21 km / 13 mi from Sartène, 30 min drive)

L’Hostellerie du Moulin des Oliviers   is a beautiful boutique hotel surrounded by a charming Mediterranean garden. The Hotel features all kinds of amenities, including a swimming pool, private beach, spa, and fine dining.

Accommodation in Piana and the Calanques

Hôtel Capo Rosso boasts a wide terrace with superb views of the Calanques de Piana and the Gulf of Scandola, one of the most scenic areas of Corsica.

Hotel Scandola features modern and tasteful décor and spacious rooms with a balcony. The charming terrace offers sweeping sea views.

Where to stay in Corte

Dominique Colonna Hotel :  A stylish hotel with a wide terrace overlooking the river. Dominique Colonna features an outdoor swimming pool with a sundeck and a spa.

If you’d rather stay in nature, check out Hôtel de la Restonica . Rustic but tasteful, the hotel features a summer outdoor swimming pool and views of the mountains. It’s a perfect choice if you want to do some hiking in Corsica since there are some trails nearby.

Corsica Road Trip Map

  Note:

This post contains affiliate links to carefully selected products and services, some of which I tested myself. If you make a purchase, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Travel addict and passionate about photography, Simon Falvo started Wild About Travel back in 2009. Leveraging her strong PR background, she developed an extensive knowledge of Digital Communications and Content Creation. Besides travel writing Simon holds workshops and trainings, she collaborated with tourism boards for digital marketing campaigns and participated as a speaker at several events.

15 thoughts on “How to Plan a Unique Corsica Road Trip: 7-day Itinerary”

• Pingback: 15 Amazing Road Trips in France - Migrating Miss

I am so happy to discover your blog tonight. Thanks for sharing your Corsica road trip. I enjoyed read your post very much,

I love hiking and have hiked world wide. We are going to be in Corsica and Sardinia next month.

I was wondering how many days it took you for this Corisca Road trip?

Hi Rachel, I’m so glad you enjoyed reading the article. My road trip in Corsica lasted 1 week, but there’s so much to do and see on this beautiful island that you can easily spend a month there. I’m sure you’ll enjoy Corsica and Sardinia. The islands are quite different, even if close to one another. Just beware, if you plan to hike, that Sardinia is much drier and that you’ll have much less shade than in Corsica.

• Pingback: The Spectacular Restonica Valley in Photos
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Corsica looks stunning! I’m hoping to do a similar road trip next month. I’m really looking forward to it after reading this post.

Hope you’ll get to go to Corsica, Andrea. Wonderful island, perfect for road tripping!

Stunning photos and useful tips, Simon. I’d love to visit Corsica someday. It looks a bit like Sicily with French accents.

Your photos make us want to plan a trip to Corsica this year! Look at that village of Ota – so charming!

I’ve always wanted to visit Corsica – and what a fabulous set of images you’ve got that make me want to go.

Corsica sounds great! Beautiful views….thanks for a wonderful narrative!

Lovely photography of a very beautiful island. It’s one of my favourite places in the world but I haven’t seen much of the interior. I’d love to travel by train from Ajaccio to Corte and then down to L’Ile Rousse. I heard it’s a superb journey. As for driving in Corsica – I tried it once – not a good experience. It’s as flat as a pancake where I live. Give me a roaring motorway over hairpin bends and plunging drops with no barriers anytime.

You must definitely go back, Kathryn, and visit the interior, otherwise you would have seen only one half of the moon 🙂

I made part of the journey with the little train years ago and loved it.

We just did a road trip through Corsica in August. Gorgeous! I couldn’t believe the diversity of the country. I can’t wait to go back. Gorgeous shots!

Thank you, Corinne. However, it’s not hard to get nice shots of an island which is so beautiful. You’re right, the diversity is what makes Corsica so special, an unexpected.

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Road trip Corsica: 3 itineraries for the ultimate Corsica tour!

In this Corsica itinerary blog you will read all about a possible road trip in Corsica include the top destinations and highlights of this island. We tell you a little more about Corsica itself and name the 12 destinations & highlights of Corsica. Then you will find three different itineraries for a tour of Corsica.

A Corsica itinerary of 2 weeks , an itinerary of 3 weeks and finally a combination itinerary Corsica with neighboring island Sardinia. In addition, in this blog you will find useful tips, we tell you how long you need per destination and we have selected hotels. Have fun planning your Corsica itinerary!

Road trip Corsica: tour across this island full of diversity!

Corsica is a beautiful green island and is nicknamed Île de beauté . This French island is known for its mountainous landscape, spectacular rock formations and impressive coastline. Typical local products are the wines, many sheep and goat cheeses, chestnuts, citrus fruits and olive oil.

Corsica was originally Genoese and later became French territory . You can see these Genoese influences very clearly in the architectural styles, old traditions and customs and in the tasteful Corsican cuisine. This gives Corsica its unique identity .

Vacations to Corsica attract different types of travelers. The island is perfect for hiking, cycling, snorkeling, diving, skiing, sunbathing, canyoning, sailing but also visiting beautiful historic cities. And then we haven’t even mentioned the good food, many good restaurants and the hospitable Corsicans. In short, a visit to Corsica has something to offer for everyone. And it is the ultimate location for a cool road trip!

Visit Corsica: How to travel here?

Another option is to visit Corsica by ferry , like we did. We took the ferry from Nice to Bastia . You can also catch the ferry to Corsica from Marseille, Toulon, Genoa, Livorno and Savona . There are three major companies that provide the boat services. You can find departure times and prices on this site .

A big advantage of taking the ferry is that you can take a car (with luggage) with you. The latter is very nice if you plan to go camping at one of the many campsites in Corsica. Another advantage of the ferry is the option of a sleeping cabin. This way you arrive rested on this French island. We get seasick pretty quickly, but found the ferry to be more then doable.

12 Highlights and destinations for your Corsica tour!

What are the top destinations in Corsica? Corsica has many hotspots and places of interest that are worth visiting. Below, you can see a map of Corsica with the geographical location of the highlights of Corsica . Following the map, we describe (clockwise, starting from Bastia) all the different sights and destinations in Corsica. This way you can see which places appeal to you and how you want to put together your travel itinerary for the ultimate Corsica road trip.

Our 3 favorite Corsica highlights:

• Visiting the city  Bonifacio
• The hike to the Calanques de Piana !
• The beautiful beaches in Corsica. A boat trip to Iles Lavezzi  will take you to one of these beautiful beaches!

1. Port city of Bastia: the start of your Corsica tour!

We arrived at Bastia by ferry and proceeded directly south. Bastia is one of the larger towns on the island and, next to Ajaccio, the gateway to Corsica.

2. City of Porto-Vecchio: the Corsican St-Tropez

Porto-Vecchio is a popular coastal town. The village has a cute village center with many nice restaurants and all kinds of (expensive) shops. But this place is small and very touristy. Porto-Vecchio is also called the Corsican Saint-Tropez . Half a day or an evening is enough to discover Porto-Vecchio, but to be honest: if you don’t have much time, skip Porto-Vecchio. 

3.  Beautiful beaches in Corsica

Looking for sun, sand and sea? Then a visit to Corsica is all you need. Corsica has pearly white beaches with turquoise water. Most beaches in Corsica are easy to reach by car and therefore suitable for families with children. A blog about the best beaches in Corsica will follow soon!

Near Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio you will find several beautiful beaches such as:

• Plage de Palombaggia:  long wide beach with various beach bars
• Plage de Santa Giulia: Popular beach on a peninsula. Note:  the parking space is often full.
• Beach Rondinara: our favorite beach, quiet, on a beautiful bay!
• Plage de Saint-Antoine: Narrow beach, but great hike to get there! Note: not accessible by car.

4. Bonifacio: The city on the cliffs & the pearl of Corsica!

If you ask us, Bonifacio is really the most beautiful city in all of Corsica. It sits atop white limestone cliffs and has a cozy old town. Also impressive is the cemetery that overlooks the harbor.

In the area of Bonifacio you can go hiking. For example, there is a coastal path of more than 5 kilometers from the center of Bonifacio, all the way to the beach of Saint-Antoine. You walk over the white rocks, where you have different viewpoints. You can also see the high limestone formations by boat. Click here to book a boat tour, where we have the tip to combine this with the next highlight: a visit by boat to Lavezzi (see also destination 5) . This is really a must when you are in Bonifacio!

Which hotel to pick in Bonifacio?

Hereby three nice hotels in or just outside Bonifacio.

Petra-Bianca €€

Petra-Bianca is located in Bonifacio, 1 km from Bonifacio Port & 4 km from the beach. This beautiful B&B has beautiful bedrooms and a lovely swimming pool. From €99 euros per night .

Charme a cheda €€

Surrounded by a large garden, this lodge is located at the entrance of Bonifacio. Each room has its own atmosphere. The hotel’s chef also gives a cooking workshop here. From €110 per night .

Hotel Spa Genovese €€€

Hotel Spa Genovese is located in the town of Bonifacio, on top of a cliff with panoramic views of the harbor. There is an outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace and sun loungers. From €170 per night.

5. Boat trip to the Lavezzi Islands: snorkeling, swimming and sunbathing

From Bonifacio, visit the Lavezzi Islands and on the way back enjoy a phenomenal view of the high cliffs on which Bonifacio is built.

Most of the Lavezzi Islands are private islands but there is one island that is available to the public. Many boats go here from Ajaccio & Bonifacio. On this Lavezzi island there are beautiful sandy beaches where you can snorkel well in the clear water!

6. Ajaccio: the capital of Corsica

Ajaccio is the island’s capital city and the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Many buildings and places refer to the former French emperor.

Highlights of Ajaccio are the childhood home of Napolean , the Ajaccio Cathedral, the citadel and the pleasant shopping street Rua Bonaparte. If you like walking, consider the Sentiers des Crêtes walking trail and take in beautiful views of the city.

7. Les Calanches de Piana: impressive red limestone cliffs 

Certainly one of the most beautiful places in Corsica in our opinion is the UNESCO region of Calanches of Piana (Les Calanques de Piana). This place just shows how diverse Corsica is! When you are making a road trip, make sure to add this location to your Corsica itinerary! 

You drive through this area by car, and the road itself is spectacular. But this place is really worth to stay longer. This way you can take a hike and see much more of these beautiful rock formations. Also worth doing here is the tough but beautiful hike to Capo Rosso , a stretch of rocky land that extends far into the sea. At the highest point is a lookout tower and during the hike you have beautiful views from which you can look meters into the depths of the clear sea.

8. Scandola Nature Reserve

The Scandola nature reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its large rock formations. Here you will find red and jagged rocks in all kinds of shapes and figures. A boat trip is the only way to admire this natural wonder.

9. The inlands of Corsica: hiking through the mountains.

Corsica is perfect for hikes because of the many hilly hiking trails  with beautiful viewpoints (Mare è Monti and the GR20, a hiking trail of 200 km). The highest mountain is Monte Cinto (2706 meters) followed by Monte Rotondo (2622 meters). Not only can you hike along the mountains of Corsica, there are also many cycling routes that go along the peaks of Corsica. For example, the challenging climb to the Col de Bavella and the bike ride to the Col de Verde.

10. Corte: The student city of Corsica

Corte is located in the inlands of Corsica and is surrounded by granite mountains and hills. In Corte you will find the only university of Corsica. Corte is a real student city which you immediately recognize when seeing the nice bars, restaurants and cafes. We thought it was a really nice place, bustling and full of life.

11. Calvi: Nice town in northwest Corsica.

12. the desert of corsica: desert des agriates.

Les desert des Agriates is located on the north coast of Corsica. Traveling through this inhospitable area can only be done by jeep or on foot. If you cross this green uninhabited area, you will arrive at paradisiacal beaches .

The most beautiful beaches of Desert Des Agriates are: Lotu beach and the sandy beach of Saleccia . Would you like to discover the unique desert landscape by 4×4? You can book this activity here . We had to skip this place due to time constraints, but the stories about it are great!

Three itineraries for Corsica!

Now that you know the 12 highlights of Corsica, it’s time to put together your Corsica itinerary. To help you put together this road trip itinerary, we give you three different itineraries for a tour of Corsica.

Due to the mountainous landscape of Corsica, traveling between different destinations can sometimes take longer than you would expect. Keep this in mind, especially in high season. Especially because in the summer the roads are busy with French tourists and there are regular traffic jams.

Tip: do not visit Corsica in high season (July-August). Then it is very busy here!

We recommend a ( rental) car for a Corsica road trip. There are trains and buses in Corsica so traveling by public transport is also possible, but then you are not nearly as flexible and you cannot get everywhere.

1. Itinerary 2 weeks in Corsica: the honeymoon trip!

This was the Corsica itinerary on our honeymoon. After our wedding in France , we immediately went on a honeymoon. From the Champagne region to Nice (with a stopover in Aix-en-Provence ) where we then took the ferry to Bastia.

Our Corsica 2 week itinerary was as follows:

Bastia – Porto-Vecchio – Bonifacio – Propriano – Calanques de Piana – Evisa – Corte – St Florent – Bastia

We traveled at a leisurely pace during our honeymoon. From Bastia we drove directly to Porto-Vecchio . Even though we didn’t think this city was that great, we had a lovely hotel and visited fine beaches from here. We stayed here for 2 days. Tip: go directly to Bonifacio and stay there for 5 days instead of Porto-Vecchio .

Then we continued to Bonifacio , which we think is the most beautiful city in Corsica. We also stayed here for 3 days  and visited the islands of Lavezzi . The next stop for us was Propriano (2 days), where few tourists come, but there are many beaches to relax.

After a few days we drove on to the small picturesque village of Piana , to visit, among other things, Les Calanques de Piana . The Scandola Nature Reserve is also not far from here. In 2 days you have seen the most beautiful things here.

After all that sea it was time to go inland and we took a detour to the cute mountain village of Evisa (1 day). After several hikes we traveled on to Corte, the student city of Corsica. The road there is an attraction in itself: numerous beautiful viewpoints over the rocky mountain landscape of the interior of Corsica. We recommend that you stay here for 2 days.

2. Itinerary 3 weeks in Corsica: the Grand Tour

Would you like to discover the French island at your own pace? Then consider the 3-week itinerary below, the grand tour through Corsica. You can start this Corsica road trip from Ajaccio or Bastia.

Itinerary Corsica 3 weeks:

Ajaccio – Propriano– Sartene – Bonifacio – Porto-Vecchio – Corte – Saint Florent – ​​Calvi – Porto or Piana – Ajaccio

This Corsica itinerary begins in Ajaccio where you will be introduced to the city of Napoleon. After this cultural experience, you will travel to the beaches of Propriano .

After a few days at the beach, the next destination is Sartene . Sartene is a picturesque village located in the mountains. Here you will spend the night. You then drive through the forested region of Alta Rocca to the village of Cauria , where you can see archaeological finds such as menhirs and megaliths.

Off to the east of Corsica!

Your next destination is Bonifacio , the city built on high limestone cliffs and you take a boat trip to Iles Lavezzi . A trip to Porto-Vecchio is possible, but don’t spend too much time on it.

Are you ready for a nice mountain walk with a view of the Aiguilles de Bavella (the characteristic rocky peaks of red granite)? Then consider making a trip or stopover to Zonza before traveling on to the historic city of Corte.

After Corte you visit Saint Florent , a beautiful small village on the coast and a good base for discovering Cap Corse and visiting Corsica’s only desert by 4×4: Desert de Agriates . Then you can make a stop in Ile Rousse for lunch before visiting Calvi. Spend a few days in Calvi .

Here you can also take the boat to the Natural Park of Scandola . Your next stop is Piana . From here you can enjoy the Plage d’Arone beach , walk to Capo Rosso and visit  Les Calangues de Piano .

Itinerary Corsica & Sardinia: the best of 2 islands

A visit to  Corsica (France) can also be easily combined with a visit to the Italian island of Sardinia . For example, you fly to Bastia and return from Cagliari .

The crossing between the two islands is made by boat. From Bonifacio you take the ferry to the town of Santa Teresa di Gallura . The distance between these islands is only 16 km. In high season the boat goes 4 times a day.

You do need a rental car for this island road trip. The highlights of this Corsica & Sardinia itinerary are:

Corsica’s most special hotels

There are many good and hotels available in Corsica. But below you will find a number of hotels that are very special and immediately stand out!

These are all unique accommodations to stay and are all located in quiet places with a particularly beautiful view. Be quick to book in high season, because these unique hotels in Corsica are fully booked quickly. Also check out our Corsica hotel guide , which gives agood overview of budget, midrange and luxury hotels per region! 

Acqua Linda €

This beautiful apartment complex with swimming pool is located a 30-minute drive from Ajaccio . The rooms are very modern and spotlessly clean. the beach is 350 meters away. From  €84 per night .

La Dimora €€

La Dimora is located in northern Corsica , 40-minutes from Bastia. We enjoyed this luxury hotel very much! Rooms are lovely, the restaurant is very good and the pool so nice. From €189 euros a night .

Bergerie du Prunelli €€€

Bergerie du Prunelli is located in Cauro, 19 km from Ajaccio . The B&B has a spa and wellness center with a hot tub, hammam and pools. The property is 15 km from the beach. From €200 per night .

Are you looking for nice hotels and special lodges in the mountains (inland of Corsica)?

Below we give a few hotel options in the inlands of Corsica for inspiration. Here you can enjoy the beautiful mountain landscape and the tranquility that comes with it. These lodges are conveniently located for hiking.

Dominique Collona €€€

Dominique Colonna is located in Corte . Stylish elegant design hotel in the middle of the mountain. An ideal base for making hikes in the area. From €239 per night .

Cas Anna Lidia Hotel €€

This boutique hotel is located in the Corsican village of Feliceto , a 25 minutes drive from Calvi. There are good restaurants and wine tastings nearby. From €129 per night .

Casa Santa Lucia €€

Casa Santa Lucia is located in Bocognano , 40 km from Ajaccio and 44 km from Corte. View of the valley and small villages is great. The hosts make sure you really feel at home. From €140 per night.

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Special hotels in corsica: our favorite hotels by destination in corsica, the best beaches of corsica: 11x the most beautiful beaches and coves, les calanches de piana and capo rosso in corsica: hikes in northwest corisca, what to do in bonifacio, corsica the best sights + tips.

I had no clue there was so much to see in Corsica! So saving this post for a future trip :)

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The Ultimate Corsica Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a road trip in Corsica? Then you are in for a fantastic time!

Often called ‘the Island of Beauty’, it is blessed with an incredible landscape, where soaring ochre cliffs plunge into shimmering turquoise waters that dazzle in the sun.

Also featuring breathtaking gorges replete with chestnut trees, the island has 1000 km of scintillating coastline which accommodates more sandy beaches, jagged peninsulas and hidden coves than you could ever hope to visit.

Throw in historic stone villages that cling precariously to cliff faces, centuries of history and tradition – it is after all the birthplace of Napoleon – and some fantastic local foods and wines, and you have a destination that is a must-visit.

Best explored on walks through its cities, and scenic drives in Corsica, there are plenty of places you can see on the island to really ‘discover’ it.

In this guide, we will help you plan your ultimate Corsica Road Trip, by outlining for you some of the island’s most notable destinations.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no extra cost for you!

Table of Contents

Planning a road trip in Corsica

When planning your Corsica road trip itinerary, you will need to know when the best time to go is. How to get to Corsica. And also where to go once you arrive on the island.

In the sections below we will attempt to answer these questions for you, so you can start to put a proper driving tour of Corsica itinerary together.

When is the best time to do a road trip in Corsica?

While the island offers something all year round for tourists, the general consensus is that the months from May to September are the best for visiting Corsica.

During this period the weather is sunny and the water is usually quite warm for a swim.

All of the island’s most popular attractions are open as well. While you can also enjoy plenty of hikes and boat trips on and around its spectacular landscape. 

How to get to Corsica

Overall, there are two main ways to get to Corsica.

You can either fly there from various cities in France, and other parts of Europe, or you can get the ferry over.

Should you decide to take the ferry, the quickest route is the one that runs from Nice to Ile Rousse, which takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete. 

Ferries to Corsica also run regularly from Toulon, Savona and Piombino, which is in Livorno in Italy.

Once on the island, driving in Corsica is fairly straightforward, and public transport is fairly reliable too.

The Perfect Itinerary for a road trip in Corsica

Planning a Corsica road trip? Well here are some fantastic places to head to during your time there.

Stop 1: Ajaccio

The capital of the island, the port city of Ajaccio is where many Corsica road trip visitors first arrive.

And what a place to do so! 

Nestled on the island’s craggy western coast, you’ll instantly be charmed by its unique mix of history, culture and modernity.

As the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte, it boasts plenty of noteworthy attractions honouring him and his family. Including The National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence – his childhood home – which now displays a fabulous selection of family heirlooms and priceless artworks.

With a plethora of fabulous bars and restaurants, a wide range of accommodation offerings, lively market and a terrific beach, this is a place you will want to stay for a few days.

• Visit The National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence: The iconic French Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born in Ajaccio on August 15, 1769. So you will find lots of monuments and references to him there. 

One of the most impressive is his birth house, which has now been turned into a fascinating museum that showcases how he and his family lived. It is well worth visiting if you are into French history.

• The Fesch Palace: A must for all art lovers, Ajaccio’s fine art museum features original masterpieces by such revered painters as Botticelli, Titian and Poussin. There is also a whole area which features portraits of the Bonaparte family.
• Hit the beach! There are some beautiful beaches in Ajaccio and if you have some time available it is worth visiting more than just one of them. Saint-François beach is the one most visitors head to, as it is within walking distance of the city centre and is also close to the citadel, and the port. 

However, if you get the chance you should also try and visit The beach of Terre Sacrée, which has lots of sandy coves to explore and huge rocks by the water.

As well as the beaches at Barbicaja and Marinella. Both of which are great places to sunbathe and also have some nice restaurants in which to dine at.

• Check out the Ajaccio Market: If you love good food then you simply have to get yourself over to the Ajaccio market. Situated in Foch Square it runs every morning (except on Mondays between November and March), and is a great place to discover all the best locally produced cheeses, deli meats, jams and wines.
• A Cupulatta turtle sanctuary: Not quite in Ajaccio, rather 20 km from it, this fabulous 2.5 hectare park is Europe’s largest that is dedicated solely to turtles. It features over 170 species from all around the world, including all continents where they exist, and is a great place to see and learn all about them.

Stop 2: Bonifacio

When driving in Corsica, the city of Bonifacio is a fabulous place to visit.

Situated on the island’s southern tip, it is probably best known for its bustling marina.

As well as its impressive, historic, medieval citadel that sits on a clifftop and features structures like The Chapel of St. Roch, which was built back in 1528.

There is plenty to see of interest for those who visit this part of the island.

Much of which is contained within a warren of narrow cobblestone lanes that are so charming, you could easily wander around them in a happy daze of contentment for hours upon end.

If you plan to stay here there is plenty of accommodation near the port, city centre and citadel. You’ll also find some great beaches to relax on too when you have had your fill of sightseeing.

• Explore the citadel: Perched on a 70 metre high cliff that overlooks the sea, the medieval buildings, landmarks and walls contained within Bonifacio’s old town are a must-see. Be sure to check out The King of Aragon’s Staircase, 187 incredible steps that have been expertly carved into the cliff face.
• Check out the port: Nestled at the foothill of the old town, this buzzy neighbourhood has several very good restaurants and bars to enjoy.
• Walk on the Campu Rumanilu path: Starting from the Saint-Roch Pass you will get to enjoy spectacular views, as well as visit the Cap de Pertusatu and the stunning Trois Pointes beach.
• Take to the water – Whether you want to stand up paddle on the sparkling waters of Piantarella lagoon, windsurf, kayak or kite-surf at Piantarella beach, or jet ski around the port itself, there are plenty of opportunities for you to do that here.

Stop 3: Porto Vecchio

Translating to ‘Old Port’, which is thought by some to be a reference to a Roman port whose remnants can still be seen in the area, Porto-Vecchio is Corsica’s third largest town.

Once occupied by Sempiero Corso in 1564, it is now home to about 12,000 residents.

Though, as it is a very popular tourist spot, the number of people at Porto Vecchio can exceed 40,000 on any given day in the summer.

The town is sometimes referred to as ‘the city of salt’, on account of it being built on salt-water marshes, which were subsequently drained to facilitate development.

Plenty of plush yachts fill the marina, while its main square, Place de la République, is packed with an eclectic mix of shops, boutique stores and cafes.

The pine tree-lined Palombaggia beach is a popular spot to head to for those visiting Corsica.

• Marvel at the views from The Bastion de France: Want some Insta-worthy photos? Then head on over to the fantastic terrace here which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Porto-Vecchio.
• Take the small tourist train: Between the port and the citadel, the road is quite a steep incline. So you might want to take the small tourist train that runs between the lower and upper town of Porto Vecchio. The views are pretty spectacular.
• Go Canyoning: Beginners should head to the Pulishellu canyon, while more seasoned enthusiasts should head to Vacca or Purcaraccia.
• Enjoy quality beach time at Rondinara: Spectacular fine sandy beaches that house stoic, crystal clear waters.

Stop 4: Corte

Corte has a rich history. Under the leadership of Pasquale Paoli, it served as the Corsican independent state capital.

It was also the birthplace of Joseph Bonaparte in 1768 (Napoleon’s eldest brother), as well as Theophilus of Corte in 1676, a prominent Roman Catholic priest and member of the Order of Friars Minor. 

It even housed German prisoners POW in its citadel during World War I. So it offers plenty to excite historophiles.

Now better known as a university town (Pasquale Paoli University is based here) Corte has a youthful and energetic vibe.

Its citadel, which was built in the 15th century, is also the only one located in the centre of the island. Thus giving the town a unique point of difference.

• Follow the ‘heritage trail’: This series of signposts will lead you to the city’s main and major historical buildings.
• Check out The Musée de la Corse: Known as the Regional Museum of Anthropology, this captivating museum showcases three different exhibits that highlight Corte’s past.
• Take in the views from The Belvedere: A promontory that looks out to the city and directly faces the citadel, the panoramic 360° views of the Tavignano and Restonica valleys are sensational.
• Peruse The Cours Paoli: Take a stroll through the main shopping street in Corte, where you will find plenty of shops, boutique stores, bakeries, cafes, bars and restaurants. A great place to mingle with locals.
• Treat your taste buds at The Casanova bakery: Famous for its incredible vegetable and chestnut fondant pies, which are a must-try! You’ll probably want more than one so bring your fat pants!

Stop 5: Bastia

Bastia is the second biggest city in Corsica. It is also a port city and serves as the capital of the département of Haute-Corse.

A well-known manufacturer of preserves, cigars, and cigarettes, it is also famous as an exporter of highly acclaimed Cape Corse wines. Like Ajaccio, it is home to a professional football team too.

When embarking on a road trip in Corsica be sure to add Bastia to your itinerary, as there is plenty to see and do here.

Lively cafes, restaurants and bars flank the Old Port, while the dual-towered Church of St. Jean-Baptiste is also a major drawcard.

Its citadel, Terra Nova, features ramparts that were built by Genoese rulers and the Bastia Museum, which is situated within The Governor’s Palace, exhibits the history of the city.

Close to it, the Cathedral of Ste. Marie also boasts outstanding marble statues and paintings.

• Pay your respects at The Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste: Renown for being the largest church in Corsica, this stunning church was built in a baroque style. It is notable for its twin bell towers and also features an interior that is lavishly decorated with sensational art, like a marble statue of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and the silver tabernacle of the high altar.
• Take in the sights from Romieu Garden: Just to the south of the Old Port, this leafy park features the iconic Romieu Stairs. Which will take you on a challenging journey up to a viewpoint that conveys magnificent views of the surrounding city.
• Browse through The History Museum of Bastia: Located in The Governor’s Palace, this museum is a living monument to Corsica’s history and heritage.
• Shop at the flea market: A very large market. It takes place every Sunday at St. Nicolas Square.

Stop 6: Nonza

Positioned on the side of a cliff, southwest of the peninsula, Nonza is the last village of interest you will pass as you make your way around Cap Corse.

You might not want to stick around here for too long.

However, it is one of the best scenic drives in Corsica, showcasing some lovely views.

It also has a quaint church that dates back to the 16th century, a ruined castle and a historic tower as well.

You’ll also find good shopping and food here, as well as some lovely wines. There is also a very interesting grey beach, which, although is not the best for swimming, is a nice spot for a wander.

• Visit the Church of Sainte-Julie: Built around the 16th century, this sacred building was dedicated to a saint who was martyred during the Roman period.
• Check out The Tour Paoline: Set within a ruined castle that sits atop the cliff along the fringes of the village, this tower was built under the order of Pascal Paoli in 1760.
• Nonza Beach: Take a walk along the grey sand of this striking beach.
• Peruse the local shops: Nonza has a lovely collection of boutique stores and shops to check out.

Stop 7: St Florent

Known for being the gateway to the Agriates desert, Saint-Florent is the place to come if you want to visit some of the best beaches on the island.

Once operating as a fishing port in the gulf, which it was named after, today you are more likely to see yachts and pleasure boats in the marina. And plenty of them!

With a capacity to hold almost 1,000 boats, the marina is the second biggest on the island. Along with the old town, it is also one of the more livelier parts of the city to visit too.

• Explore the Citadel: Built by the Genoese in the 15th century, you can go inside it in the summer as it hosts regular art displays.
• Visit the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral: Dedicated to the Assumption of Mary, this stunning 12th century church is a historical monument. Just 700 metres away from the old town, it features a 15th century fresco of the 12 apostles which were found in Rome some time in the 18th century and brought back to Corsica.
• Adventure through the Agriates Desert: Despite its name, the Agriates Desert is quite a vast and pristine mountainous region. It does however feature two excellent beaches, Saleccia and Lotu which are well worth visiting for their stunning turquoise waters and fine sand.
• Go Diving: The Gulf of Saint-Florent is a noted spot for diving as the area is teaming with spectacular marine wildlife. Several centres operate in the city. Most of which are situated in the marina.

Stop 8: L’Ile Rousse

Tucked away on the Northwestern coast of the island, l’Île-Rousse is a charming seaside town that boasts a good beach and an intoxicating laid-back vibe.

Protected by the hilly terrain of La Balagne, people have lived in this area since between 5000-3000 BC. Indeed it was even called Agilla in 1000 BC.

But after several names and ownership changes, Pasquale Paoli eventually founded l’Île-Rousse as a port that would remain firmly out of the control of the Genoese.

Named after the tiny Pietra Island, which features a natural phenomenon whereby its rocks turn red at sunset, the town is a lovely place to explore.

• Marvel at the Church of the Immaculate Conception: Flanked by palm trees, this stunning church was first inaugurated in 1893, though had to be rebuilt after fire damaged it in 1914. It features spectacular paintings and stained glass windows that date back to the 17th century.
• Take a walk along Promenade de Marinella: This lovely walkway runs along the sea close to Paoli Square. It showcases stunning views in both directions.
• Visit the Ile Rousse Lighthouse: Built in the 19th century, this white-washed lighthouse is also called the Phare de la Pietra. It is a very Insta-worthy landmark that also offers terrific views of the mountains and the town.
• Relax at Ile Rousse beach: Enjoy the stunning white sand and crystal clear waters of this gorgeous beach.

Stop 9: Calvi

Folklore dictates that Calvi was the birthplace of Christopher Columbus (it was under the rule of the Genoese Empire at the time).

While this may be up for debate, what is not, is how dazzling its half-moon shaped bay and gorgeous beaches are.

Located on the northwest coast of the island, Calvi accommodates an imperious medieval citadel that overlooks the marina, at the western end of the bay.

Home to the impressive Baroque St-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral, as well as the chapel of Notre-Dame de la Serra, which is nestled on a hill and showcases fabulous views of the surroundings, the town also has a fabulous warren of cobbled streets to explore.

When you are hungry, you can also choose to eat at any of the great selection of restaurants that line the harbour’s esplanade.

• Stop by the Saint-John the Baptist Cathedral: A historical monument that boasts a stunning wooden triptych and two fabulous statutes honouring Our Lady of the Rosary, and the Christ of Miracles respectively.
• Explore the old town of Calvi: Nestled at the bottom of the citadel, the quaint paved streets of the old town feature lots of interesting craft and souvenir shops.
• Take a boat trip to the Scandola Nature Reserve: This fabulous UNESCO World Heritage Site is both a marine and terrestrial Nature Reserve that is well worth exploring. You can book a 4-hour cruise from Calvi that also includes a stop to enjoy snorkelling.
• Hike in the Bonifatu Forest: Located a 30 minute drive from Calvi, this 3000-hectare forest is a must for those who love to hike in beautiful nature!
• Calvi Beach: 4.5 miles of gorgeous sandy beach to sunbathe, walk or play on.

Stop 10: Scandola Nature Reserve

As mentioned previously, The Scandola Nature Reserve is a popular destination to visit from Calvi, and should be on any Corsica road trip itinerary.

Established in 1975 on the west coast of the island, this reserve lies within the Corsica Regional Park.

It has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status on account of its magnificent landscape, maquis shrubland and rich biodiversity, and is especially noted for its ochre cliffs, fine sandy beaches, and imposing headlands.

There are two sectors within the reserve – the peninsula of Scandola and the Elpa Nera inlet.

Both of which are equally compelling. Its soaring, rugged cliffs also possess many fascinating grottos which are framed by several stacks and other coves and islets that are virtually inaccessible.

• Go diving: While you are not permitted to dive in the protected area, nothing is stopping you from diving around the edges of it. If you do, you will get to see a spectacular seabed, as well as the likes of spiny lobsters, groupers and moray eels.
• Swim near the Reserve: If you don’t fancy diving, you can always opt to swim near the protected area and take in the magnificent scenery while you do.

Stop 11: Ota

Flanked by two chains of mountains, Ota is a small, yet picturesque village, that resides on a hillside under the Mont Capu d’Ota.

Not far from Porto, it lies among terraces of olive trees, features quaint narrow streets and offers incredible views of the surrounding cliffs and valley.

Once the centre of the ‘pieve du Sia’, the village is both the starting and finishing point of the mule track that traverses the Spelunca gorges that will take you up to Evisa. 

It is a lovely, laidback place to explore on a driving tour of Corsica and is well worth a visit if only to experience a slightly different way of island life.

• Observe: The wonderful views of the Spelunca Gorge.
• Walk the Mule Trail: It will take you three hours to walk one way to Evisa.
• Check out the pink church: There is a beautiful pink church in town that has a stunning tall square bell tower
• Enjoy local fare: Eat and drink at one of the local bars and restaurants.

Stop 12: Calanques de Piana

Forming part of the Gulf of Porto UNESCO World Heritage Site, Les Calanques de Piana comprises some incredible geological formations.

Translating as ‘place of the coves’, it is situated in Piana, in between Ajaccio and Calvi and has a slightly eerie feel to it.

Taking the form of soaring cliffs, jagged columns of red granite and stunning sea caves and arches, this natural phenomenon is a notable attraction that can be explored on foot.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. During the drive to Porto, through the mountainous region from Ajaccio, you’ll see plenty of fabulous views, as well as falcons and eagles.

Those who get close to it by boat may be able to see nesting ospreys, cormorants, and even dolphins.

• Go Hiking: Several trails, both short and long will help you explore the nature reserve of the Calanques.
• Relax on the beach: Plage d’Arone is a beautiful beach which is perfect to relax on after you’ve finished hiking.

Stop 13: Cargèse

Cargèse is a lovely village on the west coast of the island that very much has its roots in Greece.

It was established towards the end of the 18th century by descendants of immigrants from the Mani Peninsula of the Greek Peloponnese.

Whose ancestors had settled in Corsica over 100 years previously.

Noted for its twin churches that were built in the 19th century – one by Corsicans and the other by Greek immigrants, the town spills from the top of a hill down to a small harbour.

Aside from being a tourist hotspot with beautiful architecture and a sense of history, it is best known for being the home of the Cargèse Institute for Physics.

• Visit the twin churches: Take in a service at the Greek Orthodox church or the Roman Catholic church. Both of which are active and share a priest who has special dispensation.
• Check out the three towers: Three Genoese towers are situated within the village – Tour de Cargèse, Tour d’Omigna and Tour d’Orchinu, which are well worth checking out.
• Hit the Beach!: There are several fabulous beaches to visit near the village including Chiuni, Peru, Menasina, Capizollu and Stagnoli.
• Tour the Cargèse Institute for Physics: Take a tour of this fascinating centre of physics.

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The ultimate 14-day corsica road trip.

Breathtaking mountain landscapes, azure blue bays, picturesque villages, and an abundance of culinary delights. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a captivating 14-day road trip through the beautiful island of Corsica .

This breathtaking French island in the Mediterranean is often overlooked compared to other popular holiday destinations. But make no mistake, behind its modest appearance lies a true paradise, hence the nickname ‘Île de Beauté’ (Island of Beauty). This was exactly what appealed to us. Alongside Jan, I explored the island by car over two weeks, curious about the hidden treasures Corsica has to offer.

So, get ready for a journey of discoveries, where every turn in the road reveals a new adventure, and every stop provides an opportunity to experience the authentic charm of Corsica.

Disclaimer: This blog post contains interesting affiliate links. This means that if you purchase something through my recommendations, I receive a small reward. The best part? It doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps my blog continue to grow. A win-win situation, so thank you!

Île de Beauté

An important question that is likely on everyone’s mind is, why is Corsica called the ‘Île de Beauté’ (Island of Beauty)? Well, this nickname reflects the breathtaking diversity of the island, ranging from the most enchanting Mediterranean beaches and dramatic coastal landscapes to majestic mountains, green valleys, and picturesque villages.

Thus, the coastline of Corsica contains idyllic beaches featuring azure blue water, surrounded by granite rock formations and cliffs. The island’s interior provides an impressive contrast with its mountainous terrain, where the Corsican mountain range with its sharp peaks and lush forests captures attention.

Much like its landscape, Corsica reflects a rich history dating back to times long past. Scattered across the entire island, traces can be found of various dominions and historical events. Think of notable landmarks such as the historic Corte, the Genoese towers along the coast, and the medieval charm of Bonifacio. Even remote locations breathe history and authenticity, especially in the small, charming villages where age-old traditions and culture have been preserved.

Whether you prefer lounging on sun-drenched beaches, embarking on explorations of adventurous places, or delving into the rich cultural heritage of picturesque villages and historical sites, Corsica caters to every taste. The island’s versatility makes it a unique destination where nature, adventure, and culture harmoniously come together, offering an unforgettable experience.

Best time to travel for a road trip through Corsica

During low season.

The best time to embark on a 14-day road trip through Corsica is undoubtedly the shoulder seasons, namely spring (April, May, and June) and fall (September and October). During these periods, temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the island’s natural beauty. Traveling during the shoulder seasons allows you to take advantage of lower prices for flights , car rentals , accommodations , and even some attractions. Additionally, roads are less congested, and there is more available parking at places you’d like to visit. These parking areas often incur charges only during the peak season. We visited at the end of May and enjoyed beautiful sunny days with occasional local thunderstorms.

During high season

Certainly, you can plan this Corsica road trip during the summer months as well. During this time, you have a higher chance of experiencing warm and sunny weather, but given the erratic and unpredictable weather conditions in the mountains , this is by no means a certainty. Keep in mind that July and August fall right in the middle of the tourist high season. This means that prices for flights , car rentals and accommodations are significantly higher. Additionally, there is more traffic on the island, making travel less smooth in busier areas. Moreover, there is less parking available at iconic landmarks or popular beaches, requiring you to arrive very early to secure a spot, and often, you will need to pay for it as well.

How to travel to Corisca?

Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Traveling to an island in the Mediterranean may sound a bit challenging, but it certainly isn’t! Corsica is easily accessible through various means, so accessibility should not be an excuse not to visit this beautiful island.

The easiest and, of course, most time-saving way to reach Corsica is by plane. Did you know that this small island boasts no less than 4 airports?

• Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA)
• Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA)
• Calvi-Sainte-Catherine Airport (CLY)
• Figari Sud-Corse Airport (FSC)

From Brussels South Airport, you can fly to these destinations with Air Corsica . Upon arrival at the airport, you can pick up your rental car to start your road trip around Corsica.

Tip: Book a rental car before you embark on your journey. I always opt for Sunny Cars . The significant advantage of renting a car with Sunny Cars is that all insurances are already included in the price. This way, you won’t be faced with unpleasant surprises in the form of extra costs when picking up your car.

Prefer to embark on your Corsica road trip with your own car? This is certainly possible. You can take the ferry from various ports in France (Marseille, Nice, Toulon) and Italy (Livorno, Savona) to Corsica. There are several ferry companies available, including Corsica Ferries, La Méridionale , and Moby Lines , which sail to the main ferry ports on Corsica (Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and L’Île-Rousse). The duration of the ferry journey depends on the departure port and can range from a few hours to multi-day trips.

Want to learn more about driving in Corsica, finding accommodations, currency matters on the island, and other crucial details for planning your vacation? You’ll find all my tips in my blog post ‘ 10 Corsica travel tips you need to know before you go’

Based on my personal experiences, I have put together an itinerary that can assist you in planning your road trip through Corsica. You can follow this route entirely, but, of course, you have the freedom to make adjustments based on your own preferences.

For this extensive road trip, I recommend allocating a minimum of 14 days. This way, you will have sufficient time to explore all the places on this itinerary.

Discover the peninsula Cape Corse

The first region you will explore on this Corsica road trip is Cape Corse . This is a beautiful peninsula that extends like an outstretched finger into the Mediterranean Sea, located in the northern part of Corsica.

Known for its impressive cliffs, charming villages, and untouched nature, Cape Corse is a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the authentic charm of Corsica.

This region is characterized by a dramatic landscape, with steep cliffs rising from the azure blue sea and picturesque coves hidden among the rocks. The winding coastal roads lead you through picturesque villages where time seems to have stood still.

Cape Corse is not only a feast for the eyes due to its natural beauty but also houses historical landmarks such as ancient Genoese towers standing along the coastline as silent witnesses to a rich past.

Opt for accommodation with a convenient location so that you can effortlessly explore the nearby surroundings. I can already recommend Hôtel Pineto in Biguglia, Hôtel Casa Mea in Bastia, Hôtel La Dimora & Spa in Saint Florent, and Aethos Corsica , located between Saint Florent and Bastia.

Day 1: Bastia and wine route in Patrimonio

Explore the historic port city of bastia.

Start your first day in Corsica with a visit to the historic port city of Bastia, the second-largest city on the island and the main gateway for ferries from France and Italy.

Explore the historic center with narrow streets, old buildings, and churches dating back to the 14th-century Genoese rule. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral is a baroque masterpiece with beautiful frescoes and offers a panoramic view of the city and the harbor.

Stroll along the Vieux Port, the old port which is the beating heart of the city. Enjoy picturesque promenades along the water, surrounded by colorful houses and numerous restaurants and cafes. The lively Place Saint-Nicolas, a vibrant square, is a meeting point for both locals and tourists.

Have lunch at one of the many charming dining establishments and savor the local cuisine that blends Mediterranean influences with unique Corsican flavors.

The wine route of Patrimonio

Love drinking wine? Then the wine route of Patrimonio is a great afternoon activity. This route spans rolling hills, lush vineyards, and historic villages, providing you with a unique opportunity to explore Corsica’s rich wine culture.

During this route, you have the opportunity to visit various wineries and cellars, where you can not only enjoy delightful wines but also learn about the production process and the history of winemaking in this area. The hospitable wine producers are eager to share their passion for wine and their knowledge of the unique terroir of Patrimonio. Some renowned domains you can visit include Domaine Leccia , Domaine Orenga de Gaffroy and Domaine Arena

As you travel along the wine route, you can relish breathtaking landscapes with vineyards extending to the Mediterranean Sea. Col de Teghime offers the most impressive view. Along the way, discover the charming village of Patrimonio with its idyllic streets and stone houses. Don’t forget to make a stop at the delightful Libertalia Bistro Tropical , a cozy outdoor restaurant.

Day 2: Road trip around Cape Corse

The best way to explore the Cape Corse peninsula is through the Route du Cap. This scenic drive encircles the entire peninsula, allowing you to experience the unique character of both the east and west sides of Cape Corsica.

The west coast of Cape Corse will impress you with its wild, rugged beauty and authentic fishing culture, while the east coast will enchant you with its gentler landscape, picturesque villages, and winemaking traditions.

Must-see attractions on this day trip include

Erbalunga, once the main port of Corsica, is now a charming fishing village. The old harbor with the Genoese tower, Torra d’Erbalunga, is definitely the eye-catcher.

The cobblestone streets invite you to stroll along charming cafes and boutiques, making the historic center the ideal place to experience the local culture. Erbalunga is also known for excellent restaurants serving delicious Corsican dishes, including fresh fish, local cheeses, and charcuterie.

Finocchiarola Islands

The Finocchiarola Islands are a remarkable attraction, even though together they are only 3 hectares in size. The trio, consisting of Terra, Mezzana, and the most prominent Finocchiarola with an ancient Genoese tower. These islands serve as a bird reserve, with the rare Audouin’s Gull nesting there between March and August. The Finocchiarola Islands are accessible on foot from Tamarone Beach via the beautiful trail sentier des douaniers. After a 20-30 minute walk with breathtaking coastal views, you will reach the beach of this natural reserve.

Moulin Mattei  

At the very tip of Cap Corse in Ersa stands the iconic white windmill Moulin Mattei. Although it is currently not accessible to visitors, the 10-15 minute climb to the windmill offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan islands and the Italian coast. From here, the enchanting fishing village of Centuri captures attention, with its lively harbor where fresh fish, lobster, and langoustines are brought in daily for delicious local dishes.

The hidden palaces of Pino

Along the route, you will also come across the picturesque mountain village of Pino. This charming town, surrounded by lush oak forests, has a rich medieval history. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the majority of its residents emigrated to America, a setback from which Pino never fully recovered. Nevertheless, this sense of abandonment adds to its allure. In the oak forests, you will still find abandoned houses and impressive villas, called palazzi, funded by American emigrants and now sadly vacant. Pino also houses the abandoned Couvent Saint François convent and the impressive Genoese Tower Scalo at the small port.

Nonza and its black beach

Nonza is known for its breathtaking perch atop a rock, with traces dating back to prehistory. Thanks to this strategic position, the village could spot pirates from afar. At Nonza, you’ll find a remarkably dark gray-black beach. The beach owes its unusual color to waste rock from a 1950s asbestos factory nearby. Although it may not be the coziest beach for sunbathing, it is stunning to behold. You can reach the beach only on foot via a steep staircase.

After this impressive day trip, you can relax on one of the delightful terraces in the harbor of Saint-Florent.

More tips on what to do in Cap Corse can be found in my blog post ‘The most beautiful sights in Cape Corse’

Admire the most beautiful villages in Balagne

After Cap Corse, continue your road trip to the northwest of Corsica. There lies the beautiful green region of Balagne , nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and mountains. Stretching between Calvi and L’Île Rousse, it forms a semi-circle around the base of the Monte Cinto massif. Balagne, also known as the garden of Corsica, is renowned for its fertile soil, olive and vineyards, and historic towns. In recent times, the region has attracted artists, craftsmen, and ecological farmers who continue Corsican traditions here. In the villages located in the green hills of Balagne, you can still witness the production of local specialties using age-old methods.

Highly recommended accommodations in this region include Campo Di Fiori in Calvi, Casa Legna near Pigna, Hôtel Restaurant Villa Joséphine in L’Île-Rousse, and Hotel A Piattatella in Monticello.

Day 3: From Cap Corse to Balagne

On this day, you’ll travel from Cap Corse to Balagne. It’s not very far, as you can reach L’île Rousse from Bastia in just an hour and a half by car. Along this route, you have the opportunity to make some stops at the most beautiful beaches. So, make sure to have your swimwear ready in the car.

Plage de Saleccia and Plage de Lotu

On the route from Cap Corse to Balagne, you will pass through the nature reserve of Désert des Agriates. Contrary to what the name suggests, it is not a traditional desert with sand dunes but rather an extensive, rugged plain covered with maquis, low shrubs, and rocky formations. This area is a true paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, featuring two of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches , Plage de Saleccia and Plage de Lotu. These beaches are known for their fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise water. They are only accessible via hiking trails, by boat, or with a jeep, which ads to the pristine charm of the area.

Along the main road, there are facilities that offer jeep tours to these beaches, but you can also choose to do this excursion later. Head directly to Calvi and book one of the various tours to these tropical beaches through GetYourGuide from there.

Plage de l’Ostriconi

Not in the mood for a jeep excursion? Opt for a day of water fun at the beautiful Plage de l’Ostriconi. This golden sandy beach, surrounded by clear water and lush vegetation, is known for its unspoiled character. The beach is accessible by car, but from the parking lot, it’s about a 15-minute walk through the greenery, which is an experience in itself.

Once you arrive at the expansive beach, it’s easy to find a peaceful spot. Because the beach is less known, there are fewer tourists, mainly local visitors. Keep in mind that there are no facilities such as a bar, restaurant, or toilets, so be sure to bring plenty of drinks, snacks, and sun protection.

After a day of water fun, depending on where you are staying, you can head to the center of L’Île Rousse or Calvi to indulge in the local culinary delights.

Day 4: Explore the most beautiful villages of Balagne via the Craftsmen Route

In Balagne, there are numerous craftsmen, including artists and farmers, who open their workshops to the public. Through the Craftsmen Route or Strada di l’Artigiani you’ll pass by workshops located in some of the most beautiful villages in Balagne. Since you can’t visit all the villages in one day, here are some of my personal favorites. For the complete route and more information, it’s best to check out my blog on the most beautiful villages in Balagne .

The first place on my list is a bit of an exception. Calvi is not exactly a small village but rather a vibrant coastal town. The highlight is the impressive historic citadel where you can wander through a maze of narrow alleyways. Additionally, you have a breathtaking view of the sea and the harbor. Furthermore, there are numerous cozy eateries where you can taste the local cuisine and artisanal boutiques where you can pick up some charming souvenirs. This is a fantastic starting point for a route through the inland of Balagne.  

The next village is the picturesque Lumio, located along the coastal road from Calvi to L’Île Rousse. Lumio offers a perfect blend of hillside tranquility and coastal splendor. The charming village, with narrow cobbled streets and old stone houses, provides breathtaking views of the Gulf of Calvi.

From the central square, you can take a stroll to the abandoned village of Occi, with ruins where you can enjoy a magnificent view. For beach relaxation, follow the route to Plage de l’Arinella, one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches , with shallow water and a stunning view of the green hills of Balagne.

The next charming mountain village in line is Pigna. Pigna is especially known for its artists and craftsmen, as the village is home to various craft workshops that you can visit.

The well-preserved, old center of Pigna consists of winding cobbled streets, old stone houses, and brightly blue-painted shutters, creating an enchanting atmosphere. In addition to its rustic charm, you’ll find beautiful panoramas of olive groves.

Pigna’s cultural heritage resonates in the Centru Culturale di u Pighjolu, a renowned center for Corsican polyphonic singing, hosting live concerts and musical events during the summer.

Sant’Antonino 

Next is Sant’Antonino! This village is situated on a hilltop at an impressive altitude of 500 meters. Sant’Antonino’s history dates back to the 9th century, making it one of the oldest villages in Corsica. Additionally, it is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Despite its somewhat weathered appearance, the old town exudes a charming atmosphere. The panoramic viewpoint, known as the eagle’s nest of Balagne, provides a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea, Monte Grosso, Monte Padru, and the Regino Valley. From the village square, you can take a stroll to the Monastery of Saint Dominic in Corbara.

Speloncato 

Another eagle’s nest in Balagne, next to Sant’Antonino, is Speloncato. This village is perched on a rock at an altitude of about 600 meters. The history of Speloncato dates back thousands of years.

The highlight here is undoubtedly the panoramic view from the Cima district, accessible via winding alleys. From the highest point where a feudal castle once stood, you can enjoy a breathtaking view over the Reginu Valley to the sea, overlooking Petra Tafunata in the west.

Montemaggiore 

Another gem surrounded by the green hills of Balagne is Montemaggiore. This beautiful village is located a bit more to the west. Montemaggiore is especially known for its olive production. You can still visit the old olive mill U Fragnu, where olive oil is still produced. In July, the annual olive fair ‘Fiera di l’Alivu’ takes place here, which is truly a unique experience.

Here too, you have several spectacular views of the surrounding landscape dotted with olive groves and surrounded by impressive peaks.

Do you want to discover more beautiful spots in this region? Be sure to read my blog post about the most beautiful villages in Balagne .

Marvel at the beautiful landscapes in the Gulf of Porto

After Balagne, you travel to the west of the island, taking a few days to explore the enchanted Gulf of Porto . This region is located within the Regional Natural Park of Corsica and offers spectacular sights such as the protected Scandola Nature Reserve and the impressive Calanques de Piana with red cliffs towering up to 900 meters.

Furthermore, the Gulf of Porto is characterized by beautiful coastlines, rugged cliffs, and green hills, making it ideal for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. You will also discover some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches surrounded by authentic coastal and mountain towns.

Prepare for magical sunsets, where you can enjoy a true spectacle as the sun bathes the granite rocks in golden-orange hues!

Looking for an exceptional stay in the area? Definitely check out L’Aiglon in Serriera, Hôtel Capo Rosso near Piana, and VILLA FLAKA Boutique Hôtel in Cargèse.

DAY 5: From Balagne to the Gulf of Porto

On this day, you will travel to the Gulf of Porto. The travel time from Calvi to Piana is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, but in reality it may take much longer. Prepare for a few hours of winding along narrow roads and impressive cliffs! Take your time to enjoy the spectacular views, and don’t drive too fast, as you may encounter many animals along the way.

The Calanques of Piana

The final stretch of the route between Porto and Piana runs right through the Calanques de Piana. These are a spectacular series of red granite rock formations that extend over an area of about 2 kilometers. They have been formed by the erosion of the rocks over millions of years. Wind, water, and other natural forces have carved the red granite cliffs into unique and bizarre shapes. This is very impressive to see, and that’s why they are also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For me, this was one of the most beautiful drives I have ever taken. So, be prepared for many WOW-moments. Of course, along the road, there are designated areas where you can briefly park to explore the most beautiful spots up close or take stunning photos.

For the adventurous souls, there is an immediate hiking opportunity here. Starting from the main road, there are various hiking trails, including one to Château Fort. The starting point for this hike is at Tête du Chien, a rock formation where you can also park your car. Follow the yellow trail, which takes only twenty minutes, and be rewarded with breathtaking views over the Gulf of Porto. An alternative route starts at Chalet des Roches Bleues, near the statue of Mary. A steep path uphill takes you to the old mule track between Piana and Ota, where impressive views will leave you amazed.

Take a break in the picturesque town of Piana. Get lost in the narrow streets of the village, admire the traditional houses with their red roofs, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people and their pets. Yes, you heard it right! In Piana, the pets of the residents roam freely, so don’t be surprised if you are suddenly greeted by a friendly dog or cat during your stroll.

Here, you can find many restaurants where you can enjoy delicious meals. One of my favorites was Le Joséphine , an open-air restaurant with a stunning view over the Gulf of Porto. This restaurant is pretty popular, so make sure to book in advance if you plan to dine here during sunset.

Plage Ficaghjola 

In Piana, you’ll discover one of Corsica’s hidden gems: Plage Ficaghjola, a beautiful beach surrounded by impressive red granite rocks of the Calanques de Piana. The beach is not easily accessible, but you can drive by car along a winding road to a parking area and then take a short walk to this enchanting bay with crystal-clear turquoise water. An idyllic spot to relax after your drive from Balagne.

Day 6: Explore the Scandola Nature Reserve and the fishing village of Girolata

The scandola nature reserve.

The Scandola Nature Reserve is a breathtaking piece of unspoiled nature, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This reserve encompasses a stunning coastline along the Gulf of Porto, featuring imposing red cliffs rising from the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The area harbors diverse flora and fauna, including rare plant species and various bird species such as the osprey and the rare monk seal. If you’re lucky, you may spot them there.

In this nature reserve, efforts are made to harmonize environmental conservation and tourism. As a result, the park is protected, and you can only admire it from the sea. You can choose from various boat tours via GetYourGuide, departing daily from the port of Porto. There are numerous options, such as combining your trip to the Scandola Nature Reserve with a visit to Girolata or a detour along the Calanques de Piana.

The fishing village of Girolata

During your Corsican journey, a visit to the authentic fishing village of Girolata is a must. Situated in the heart of the Scandola Nature Reserve, the only access is by boat or on foot through the hiking trail Sentier de Facteur. This approximately 10-kilometer route, starting at Col de Croix, follows the path of former mail carriers to Girolata. It offers beautiful views, secluded beaches, and a good workout, with some challenging climbs. Choose appropriate footwear and bring an ample supply of water.

Once in Girolata, you can relax on the beach, where local cows keep you company, or indulge in a local lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing your hike. Although Plage de Girolata may not be the most beautiful beach in Corsica , it exudes an authentic charm.

Day 7: Hike along the Gorges de Spelunca

Gorges de spelunca .

A few kilometers inland from the coastal town of Porto are the enchanted mountain villages of Ota and Evisa. Between these two mountain villages lies the renowned Spelunca Gorge, offering a beautiful hiking experience.

If you park your car beyond Ota at the bridge over the D124, you can immediately experience the most beautiful part of the Gorges de Spelunca. It’s a 40-minute walk to Pont de Zaglia. This well-marked route offers stunning views and swimming opportunities along the Porto River. The path winds through forests and along steep rock walls, with some elevation changes, but it is certainly manageable for children. From Pont de Zaglia, you can choose to return or continue your hike through the scrubland forest to Evisa. If you’d like to walk the entire old mule track between Ota and Evisa, it will take you about 3 hours one way.

Relaxing on the beach at Plage de Porto or Plage d’Arone

If you want to relax on the beach after the hike, you have two options:

Plage de Porto 

The nearest beach is Plage de Porto, an expansive pebble beach that provides the perfect setting for an afternoon of water fun. Here, you can enjoy a stunning view of the majestic red granite cliffs in the surroundings.

Another highlight is the robust Genoese tower proudly standing atop the rocks and overlooking the beach. This square tower, constructed in the 16th century, has recently been renovated and is now open to visitors. Climb the tower for a splendid panoramic view of the Gulf of Porto.

With ample parking and various facilities for food and drinks, Plage de Porto is an ideal place to relax.

Plage d’Arone 

An alternative option is the more southern Plage d’Arone, an enchanting sandy beach accessible via an adventurous mountain road with breathtaking views of the Gulf of Porto and Capo Rosso.

Plage d’Arone is known for its crystal-clear water and pristine scenery, surrounded by lush hills and untamed nature. Therefore, it is an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and nature enthusiasts.

Near the beach, you’ll find various facilities, including restaurants and bars. Moreover, you can enjoy various water activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, windsurfing, and snorkeling. Parking is available for a fee at the restaurants and bars, but be aware that during the peak season, it can be crowded, and finding a parking spot may be challenging.

Want to discover more of this region? Be sure to read my blog post about the best things to do along the Gulf of Porto.

From beautiful beaches to impressive mountain peaks in Southern Corsica

After a stay at the beautiful Gulf of Porto, you venture further south on the island. There, you’ll find prominent cities like Ajaccio, Bonifacio, and Porto-Vecchio, as well as the impressive Bavella massif and the most breathtaking beaches on the island.

Southern Corsica guarantees an engaging exploration with a great diversity of landscapes. Lush green hills meet rugged mountains, while enchanting bays and pristine beaches adorn the coastline. This varied environment, combined with beautiful cities and charming villages, makes Southern Corsica a special and unforgettable destination.

Also, keep in mind that the East and West coasts of Southern Corsica are quite a distance apart. Due to the mountainous inland terrain, you need to either drive around the coastline or navigate through the impressive rocks. To minimize travel time, it is advisable to opt for two separate stays in both parts. Choose a 2-night stay on the Southwest coast, perhaps at A’mare Corsica . Additionally, I recommend booking 4 nights around Porto-Vecchio, where you should definitely consider Domaine de Casanghjulina for an unforgettable experience.

If you prefer a single 6-night stay, I would suggest a centrally located accommodation around Bonifacio. Options include Hôtel Version Maquis Santa Manza or Hôtel & Spa Version Maquis Citadelle .

Day 8: Explore the capital Ajaccio

From the Gulf of Porto to Ajaccio, it’s approximately a one-and-a-half-hour drive. Along the way, you’ll pass by Cargèse, a picturesque town with whitewashed houses and breathtaking vistas. Feel free to make a brief stop here if you need a break.

Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, enchants with its beautiful location on the Gulf of Ajaccio. Enjoy spectacular views of the azure blue sea and explore various points of interest.

The city is divided into two parts. The historical center includes a citadel, a lively harbor, and charming alleys, while the more recent part is characterized by chic boulevards with Parisian allure and beautiful 19th-century houses.

Ajaccio is especially known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, a fact that is evident everywhere. From statues in squares to souvenirs in shops, the city breathes imperial references. You can also visit the ancestral home of Napoleon, Maison Bonaparte .

Are you an art enthusiast? Then, pay a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts in Palais Fesch. There, you will find an impressive collection of Italian masters from the 14th-18th centuries, surpassed only by the Louvre.

Explore the narrow streets of the historic center, visit the Citadel for a strategic view, and admire the impressive cathedral with a blend of Baroque and neoclassical architecture, where Napoleon was baptized.

DAY 9: Travel back in time and discover traces of history in Filitosa and Sarène

Travel back to prehistory in South Corsica, where various archaeological sites reveal traces of bygone times. Filitosa is considered the most beautiful, and I can definitely confirm this.

The site, located on an expansive hilly domain amid granite rocks and wild olive trees, offers a dreamy landscape. The highlight is the prehistoric stone statues and menhirs from the Neolithic and Bronze Age. These statues range from human figures to animals and are scattered across the estate. As you follow the walking route, you’ll see them all

According to research, a megalithic people once lived here, creating statues of defeated enemies for the decoration of hero graves. The Torréens, who drove them away, are said to have used these statues as revenge, repurposing them as building material. While the story is not entirely certain, one thing is for sure: a visit to Filitosa is truly worthwhile!

Plage de Cupabia

Take a break between your visits to Filitosa and Sartène at one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches , Plage de Cupabia.

This secluded yet spacious sandy beach, surrounded by mountains and dense vegetation, offers tranquility and privacy. The crystal-clear water invites you to cool off and is perfect for snorkeling or diving. Besides, the surroundings are also excellent for beautiful walks.

The beach is easily accessible by car, and there is parking available. On weekends and during the peak season when it is busier, parking may become more challenging. Last but not least, there is also a beach bar for refreshing drinks and snacks.

If you want to experience the real Corsica, a visit to Sartène is a must on your Corsica road trip. This town is known as “the most Corsican of all Corsican cities” and boasts a strong cultural identity reflected in its festivals, music, and traditional crafts.

Sartène’s historic city center, with narrow alleyways, old churches, and houses with carved granite facades, transports you back in time. The central square, Place de la Liberation, is the bustling heart of the city and also the location of the annual “Catenacciu” ritual, a deeply rooted religious procession symbolizing the crucifixion of Jesus.

Nearby, you’ll find prehistoric sites in Cauria and Palaggiu, featuring dolmens, menhirs, and stone statues. Sartène also hosts a Prehistoric Museum showcasing artifacts excavated in the area, providing insight into the lives of early inhabitants.

Moreover, Sartène is renowned for its local wine production, especially the characteristic red wine of the region. If you’re a wine enthusiast, be sure to visit some nearby vineyards to experience the unique flavors of the area.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the impressive mountains of Alta Rocca and nearby beaches, Sartène offers a perfect blend of culture and nature.

Day 10: Explore the most iconic city of Corsica, Bonifacio

Discover bonifacio.

Today we say goodbye to the stunning West Coast of Corsica and head towards the East Coast. On this route, we certainly cannot miss the most iconic landmark of Corsica, namely Bonifacio. This city is famous because it’s built on cliffs of white limestone. Bonifacio is also referred to as the Gibraltar of Corsica because it is the southernmost point of the island.

It goes without saying that Bonifacio attracts many visitors, so my main tip is to arrive here as early as possible (before 10 am) to easily find a parking space.

In Bonifacio, the city unfolds in two parts: the lively lower town by the port and the old upper town in the citadel, accessible via a steep climb. The view from the upper town, with narrow medieval streets, boutiques, and restaurants, is the reward for the effort.

A must-see is the impressive “Escalier du Roi d’Aragon,” a beautifully carved stairway to the sea dating back to the 13th century and surrounded by legends and stories about its origin.

Ohter h ighlights include the phenomenal view over the city and the Strait of Bonifacio from Mount Saint Roch, where, in good weather, you can see the island of Sardinia.

What to do near Bonifacio?

Can’t get enough of these phenomenal views? Then you can combine a visit to Bonifacio with the 8 km long cliff walk to Capu Pertusato, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas.

Need some relaxation after your visit to Bonifacio? Head to the beach! Some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches in the area include Plage de la Tonnara and Petit Sperone.

Day 11: Stroll through Porto-Vecchio and seek refreshment in the natural springs of Vallée du Cavu

Take a morning stroll through porto-vecchio.

Meanwhile, you have arrived on the East Coast of Corsica. You can immediately notice, with the well-maintained roads, the buildings, and the various supermarkets along the way, that this part of Corsica is more adapted to tourists than the other regions on the island. But that doesn’t mean that it is less pleasant to stay here.

Start your day with a morning stroll through Porto-Vecchio, which literally means “old port.” With a history dating back to Roman times, the historic center offers breathtaking panoramas of the sea and the harbor. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets past local boutiques, bars, and restaurants, enjoy the lively atmosphere in charming squares, and admire charming pastel-colored houses. Discover historical landmarks such as the 16th-century Genoese citadel. Furthermore, If you want to learn more about this charming town, consider opting for a guided walking tour .

The marina, dotted with colorful boats, contributes to the Mediterranean allure of the city. Along the coastline, restaurants, boutiques, and cafes invite you to sample local dishes and artisanal products.

Seek refreshment at the natural springs in Vallée du Cavu

Looking for an adventurous yet refreshing outing for both young and old? Then the natural springs in Vallée du Cavu   are the place to be. Various hiking trails, ranging in difficulty, lead to natural springs where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and even canyoning.

The starting point at A Tyroliana Park offers paid parking facilities. From here, the most popular spot at the Les 3 Piscines restaurant is accessible via an unpaved path. During the high season, there is a free shuttle service for those who need it.

If you enjoy some climbing and scrambling, you can opt for a slightly more adventurous hiking trail along the rocks along the river. This way, you can discover the most beautiful and secluded spots to take a break and go for a swim. Approximately in the middle of the hiking trail, you reach Pont de Marion, which spans the valley and the river with its three arches. Here, you cross over and return on the other side of the bank through the woods. This looped hiking route along the springs is about 2.9 km.

Day 12: Explore the impressive peaks at Col de Bavella

Discover the mountainous interior of South Corsica today at Col de Bavella, a breathtaking mountain pass at an altitude of approximately 1,218 meters. Enjoy spectacular views of sharp granite peaks, including the famous Aiguilles de Bavella, which dramatically pierce the sky. This destination is beloved by adventurous travelers and nature enthusiasts for its numerous hiking trails, including the renowned GR20.

Parking can be found for a fee at the Col de Bavella parking lot, the starting point for most hiking trails. Be prepared for unpredictable weather and bring a rain jacket, sweater, plenty of water, and snacks. Good hiking boots are essential. For beginners, you can opt for the shorter hiking route to the Trou de la Bombe (6.3 kilometers), an impressive hole of 8 meters in a rock ridge.

For adventure seekers, there is a  challenging 11-kilometer long hiking trail  through the high mountains. The first part involves a steep ascent, followed by a descent using chains. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views. The return journey takes the GR20, a slightly easier path along waterfalls and lush greenery. Despite unfavorable weather with heavy rainstorms, making the hike more challenging than expected, it was undeniably one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever experienced.

DAG 13: beach day 

After a day of hiking in the mountains, you’ve certainly earned some relaxation. And what better way to unwind than with a day of blissful relaxation at the beach. If you’re still near Porto-Vecchio, you’re in luck! This area is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Corsica , so you have plenty of choices. To spare you from decision fatigue, let me narrow it down to my top 3 favorite beaches.

Plage Sant Giulia

Plage Santa Giulia, recognized by UNESCO, ranks among the best beaches in Corsica. With its clear turquoise waters, fine white sand, and rocks along the coast, it resembles the Seychelles.

Along the beach, you’ll find numerous trendy beach bars and clubs with photogenic cabanas, comfortable sunbeds, and cocktail service. Make sure to arrive early, as these spots are popular.

Are you a fan of water sports? Then I have good news. Here, you can enjoy one of the best sailing and windsurfing schools, with lessons available in English and German, as well as water skiing and diving lessons. You can also rent a boat to explore the other bays nearby.

The beach is accessible by car, with ample parking available. On busy days, additional parking spaces are available for 5 euros for the entire day.

Plage de Palombaggia  

Plage de Palombaggia, known as the most beautiful beach in Corsica, enchants with golden sand, azure blue water, red rocks, and majestic pine trees. Enjoy the cooling breeze on warm days in this stunning setting with a view of the magnificent Îles Cerbicale.

Plage de Palombaggia is easily accessible by car, and there is ample free parking available on the north side of the beach. However, during the high season, finding a parking space in the middle of the day can be impossible. So, try to arrive as early as possible. To alleviate this issue, you can also use the bus to reach this beach during the summer.

In addition, Plage de Palombaggia offers numerous facilities such as cafes, restaurants, sports clubs, and hotels.

Plage Pinarellu  

Surrounded by tall mountains, picturesque villages, and dense forests, you can find the beautiful sandy beach of Plage Pinarellu in a extensive bay.

The beach features both lively and tranquil areas, allowing you to enjoy privacy and silence. You can relax in an untouched environment by heading further south, while heading north provides access to numerous facilities. Here, you get the best of both worlds.

The beach is accessible by car. You can park for free along the road and reach the most pristine part of Plage Pinarellu via a short walk through the forest.

Want to explore more of Southern Corsica? Be sure to read my blog post about the best things to do in Southern Corsica .

From the south, you head back towards the north, but not without a visit to Corte. Despite Corsica’s fame for its breathtaking coastline, a rugged yet spectacular mountain landscape dominates most of the island. For those eager to explore these impressive mountains, centrally located Corte is the ideal base.

Beautiful accommodation options in Corte include Hôtel de la Restonica , Dominique Colonna , Maison San Giovanni and kyrn flor .

Day 14: Visit the Citadel of Corte

End your journey with a visit to Corte, the former capital of Corsica. The city is renowned for its imposing citadel, towering high above the town, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

When you’re here, a visit to the Citadel is a must. The citadel has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and played a significant role in the military strategies of the region. Moreover, the citadel offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, making it not only a crucial military stronghold but also an impressive architectural masterpiece. Today, you can still wander through the ancient corridors and uncover the history of Corsica. It also houses museums and exhibitions that provide a deeper insight into the rich culture and history of this beautiful island.

The charming old town center hosts quaint squares, restaurants, and artisanal shops, making Corte an indispensable destination if you want to experience the authentic charm of Corsica.

The surrounding mountains and valleys also make Corte a popular base for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with the impressive Gorges de la Restonica nearby. So, you can spend much more than just one day here.

This 14-day road trip of the enchanting island of Corsica was a fantastic experience. The wide variety of stunning landscapes that this small island offers, combined with its rich culture and authentic charm, is simply fantastic. One thing we can all agree on is that Corsica has something for everyone! Hopefully, my Corsica itinerary and tips can convince you to explore this wonderful island and help you plan an unforgettable journey.

Would a road trip through Corsica be something for you? Let me know in the comments below.

Want to read more about Corsica?

• 10 Corsica travel tips you need to go before you go
• 19 stunning boutique hotels in Corsica
• The 18 most beautiful beaches in Corsica
• The best things to do in the Gulf of Porto
• 11 stunning villages in Balagne
• The best things to do in Cap Corse
• The best things to do in South Corsica

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Sarah de gheselle, 2 thoughts on “ the ultimate 14-day corsica road trip ”.

I have reviewed you tour and we are very keen to follow 14 day Itinerary. Can you provide the number of nights in the locations you stayed and the hotels you used. With two separate stays in both parts 2 night stay south west coasts and east coast. We are a party of 4 would you recommend car hire or scooter we are travelling in the beginning of October.

kind regards

All the info about how many nights per region, the accommodations and where to rent a car is in the blog post. Have a great trip!

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Corsica Road Trip Guide: Sights and Itinerary

• March 28, 2024

It is no secret that Corsica (also known as Corse ) is known for its paradise-like feel and truly magnificent beaches. There are areas on Corsica that cause you to stop and question if you’re even still in Europe! From the turquoise shores of southern Corsica to the “off-grid” Cap Corse peninsula , the island has many different corners to discover. The best and most deserving way to travel Corse is by car. Although it may sound daunting at first to anyone less than a seasoned traveler, road tripping throughout Corsica is rather uncomplicated and immensely rewarding .

This is a complete guide to planning a Corsica road trip. We’ve included essential information , suggested itineraries and the best places to see along the way.

• When to Do a Road Trip
• Is It Easy to Drive in Corsica?
• How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Corsica?
• Getting to Corsica
• Renting a Car in Corsica
• Corsica Road Trip Map : Things to See
• Haute-Corse and East Coast
• West Coast and The Gulf of Porto
• South Corsica
• Enjoy Beautiful Beaches

Visit Villages and Towns

Drive through the corsican mountains, 1 week in corsica itinerary, one week in corsica road trip route, 2 weeks in corsica itinerary, 2 weeks in corsica road trip route, corsica road trip: final checklist, corsica road trip travel resources.

Practical Information for Planning a Corsica Road Trip

The first place to start when planning a road trip is to understand a few basics . Perhaps you’re still trying to decide if a Corsica road trip is right or doable for you and you want to have all the facts. Or, your mind is set on touring Corsica by car and you’re ready to plan the details. Either way, there are some fundamental pieces of information to keep in mind when planning a trip to Corsica, especially a road trip. These are the top things to know before you go!

1. When to Road Trip in Corsica

Luckily, Corsica’s climate is mild most of the year which means a road trip is doable any time, with the exception of winter. You’ll want to avoid planning a road trip in the months of December – February as it’s not uncommon for Corsica to receive snow. If snowfall is heavy enough, certain roads will be closed which isn’t an ideal situation when doing a road trip.

The best time for a Corsica road trip is in the spring or fall when crowds have faded. This allows for less traffic on the road and big savings if you are renting a car. May is warm enough for outdoor activities but visiting in October means the sea will still be at a sufficient temperature for swimming.

→ 🚘 Book a rental car on Corsica for spring or fall ←

2. Is It Easy to Drive in Corsica?

The answer to this question will depend on how experienced of a driver you consider yourself to be. If you are a confident driver and have some experience with driving in Europe , driving in Corsica will be a breeze. There are much more trickier places in Europe to drive as a foreigner but we wouldn’t consider Corsica to be one of them.

As one of the top things to be aware of when driving in Corsica, be prepared for narrow and curvy roads . Animals in the middle of the road are also something to be careful of! As long as you are not driving too fast or recklessly, it is not an impossible feat to navigate the roads on Corsica. The roads can particularly get questionable in the mountains so if you’re unsure of your own driving skills, just avoid these areas. As long as the weather is calm, driving in Corsica along the coast and main roads is very effortless.

Another tip to keep in mind about driving in Corsica is the lack of major highways and motorways. Most of your traveling from point A to point B will be on local roads which are not wide and tend to be indirect to accommodate the island’s landscape. Do not expect to complete a short distance in record time and set realistic expectations if you’re working with a tight timeline.

→ 🚙 Select a compact rental car to easily master Corsica’s roads ←

3. How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Corsica?

Corsica is just over 180 km long from Bonifacio to Cap Corse, the northernmost tip of the island. With the entirety of its coastline being around 1,000 km, it’s not a huge island when compared to Sardinia or Sicily . To enjoy a proper tour of Corse, we recommend a minimum of one week in Corsica. If you are able to set aside two weeks in Corsica for a road trip, this is ideal and will allow you to see many of the sights without rushing.

A direct journey by car from Bonifacio to Cap Corse will take around 4 hours. Getting across the island from Ajaccio to Bastia or Porto-Vecchio will take 3 hours. The distances are not long but Corsica’s roads are not the most efficient. This limits the amount of direct travel throughout the island and your drive will always take a bit longer than expected.

We’ve put together two itinerary examples further down in this post for those planning to stay one week and those staying two weeks in Corsica.

→ ⛺️ Read More: Complete Guide to Camping on Corsica ←

4. How to Get to Corsica

Traveling to Corsica means you have two options on how to get there – by ferry or plane . Ferry travel is incredibly popular for both passengers traveling on foot and those with vehicles. The available ferry routes to Corsica range from multiple departure points in France as well as Italy . Based on where you are coming from, you can choose the most convenient departure port near you. Ferry rides can take as little as 3 hours and up to 15 hours depending on your starting and ending point.

If you are planning on using your own car for a Corse road trip, taking the ferry to Corsica is your only option. A majority of ferries to Corsica from France or Italy accommodate cars in addition to motorcycles and camper vans. Many ferry routes to Corsica also operate year round which means you do not have to visit when crowds are at their fullest in the summer.

Exploring Corsica by car is still completely doable if you are flying to the island. Upon arrival, you’ll find rental car agencies available at all four international airports on Corsica. From multiple ferry routes to flight paths, our complete guide on how to get to Corsica can be found here !

→ 🚢 Find routes and book ferry tickets to Corsica ←

5. Renting a Car in Corsica

You do not need to travel to Corsica with your own car (or existing rental car) but you will absolutely need a car when you’re there to explore the island. Touring Corsica by car is the finest way for Corse to reveal itself to you. The many hidden corners, various regions and natural wonders it has to offer simply cannot be experienced by public transportation.

When renting a car in Corsica, keep in mind its size and capability . Choosing the type of car will come down to your travel style and what you’re looking to gain from your time on Corsica. If you’re solely relying on the car to get you from one stay to the next as you make your way around the island, a compact car will suffice. Smaller cars are also advantageous on Corsica as some roads are very narrow, including mountain roads, rural towns and busy port cities. If visiting off-grid destinations is a top priority for your road trip, you should rent a car with AWD/4WD capabilities or at least a car with enough ground clearance.

→ 🚗 Book a cheap yet capable rental car for your Corsica road trip ←

Corsica Road Trip Map: Things to See

Orange Pins: Towns and villages Blue Pins: Natural wonders Green Pins: Beaches

Corsica Travel Guide: The Top Things to See

The perfect Corsica road trip itinerary will ultimately depend on you as a traveler and what you want to prioritize during your time on Corsica. Corsica has many different types of things to see and do , but that doesn’t mean they’re a one-size-fits-all solution. This is one of the greatest things about a road trip—it’s completely curated around what you care about seeing and doing the most. Below you’ll find recommendations on some of the top things to do in Corsica, which will help you put together your ideal road trip itinerary.

Discover the Different Regions

1. cap corse.

This is the northernmost peninsula of the island, often known as the “finger” of Corsica. It is not the smoothest area to travel around but possibly the most intriguing .

2. Haute-Corse and East Coast

Haute-Corse is essentially the northern half of Corsica and this is also where the major town of Bastia is located. Everything running from Porto-Vecchio to Bastia can be considered the east coast. Most of Corsica’s great mountain peaks are also situated in the Haute-Corse region.

3. La Balagne

The northwest corner of the island is called Balagne which is compromised of two major towns – Calvi and L’Île-Rousse. It stretches from the northern coastline down to Monte Cinto.

4. West Coast and The Gulf of Porto

The Gulf of Porto is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Corsica’s most unique landscape. Ajaccio and Propriano are the major towns along the west coast of Corse.

5. South Corsica

Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio are the most notable areas of southern Corsica. This region is dense in beautiful beaches and the gateway to Sardinia.

→ ⛵️ Book an incredible boat tour of Corsica ←

Enjoy Many Beautiful Beaches

By this point in your trip planning, you’re probably aware that Corsica has some of the best (and sandy) crystal clear water in all of Europe. Most of the beaches are not easily accessible by walking from a town and can be reached by car instead, perfect for a road trip! In fact, curating a road trip itinerary based on all the Corsica beaches you want to visit makes a lot of sense. Corse beaches are the top reason for the island’s many annual visitors and likely what you’ll most be interested in doing during your summer trip. Some of the top beaches to keep in mind when putting together your road trip itinerary include:

→ 🤿 Read More: Best Beaches on Corsica ←

• Plage de Ghjunchitu
• Plage de Losari
• Plage de Palombaggia
• Plage De La Folaca
• Plage de Rondinara
• Plage de Santa Giulia
• Plage Cala Genovese
• Plage de Saleccia
• Plage de l’Isolella

→ 🐠 Take a boat tour of Corsica’s best beaches ←

The island of Corse has a few large towns, all in various areas of the island. This means each major town has a slightly different feel and things to offer its visitors. Each of these towns also serve as ports. This results in them being well equipped to handle travellers and their needs such as finding SIM cards, car rentals or stocking up on groceries. Below are the larger main towns in Corsica worth visiting.

• L’Île-Rousse
• Port-Vecchio

Life on Corsica also thrives in smaller towns and villages sprinkled throughout the island. You’ll find small towns nestled alongside the mountainous terrains and coastal shores. We personally enjoy visiting smaller villages as it’s easier to appreciate a sense of every day life and culture compared to bigger towns. You’ll also be surprised by how much better a pastry tastes from a smaller community once you eliminate a swarm of tourists. Here are just a few notable small towns to wander through during your Corsica road trip.

• Saint-Florent

With so much attention on its beaches, it’s really easy to forget how mountainous Corsica is. The island is also thoroughly green with forests making up nearly 20% of its landscape. Overall, beaches are just a very small geographical aspect of the island. Although often overlooked, the real hidden gems of Corsica are the mountains!

The continuous mountain range, which has a number of peaks exceeding 2,000 meters , runs along the center of the island. Outdoor enthusiasts will be appreciate the number of destination points along the mountains including the highest peak of Monte Cinto and hiking trails throughout the Corsica Natural Regional Park . If you do decide to road trip in the winter time and have a capable vehicle, visiting one of the handful of ski resorts by car is a feasible activity.

Other than hiking or mountain biking to these high altitude destinations, many panoramic viewpoints are accessible by car but you’ll need off-road capabilities to reach them. Still, there are plenty of places to visit in the mountainous regions of Corsica with any type of car! Some natural wonders and mountain areas to visit on your road trip itinerary without heavy hiking are below.

• Piscine Naturali – natural pool
• Village Abandonné d’Occi – abandoned village with panoramic view
• Muna – abandonded village
• Belvédère Mare à Mare Nord – viewpoint
• Cascate d’Aitone – forest swimming area
• Vasques baignades Asco – river swimming area
• Pont Génois d’Asco – historic bridge
• Piscine Naturelle in Aullène – natural pool
• Point de vue du col de Teghime – viewpoint

One of the most popular attractions and beautiful drives on Corsica is the Calanques de Piana . It is a scenic route along the west coast of the island featuring impressive rock formations made out of red ochre, a natural earth clay material. The drive begins in the town of Porto and through the town of Piana. After reaching Piana, we recommend continuing on to reach Plage d’arone . This entire spectacular area is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and undoubtedly worth a visit.

→ 🚤 Book a boat tour of Calanques de Piana ←

Road Trip Route to See Calanques de Piana

Corsica Road Trip Itinerary Options

To tour Corsica by car takes more time than it would elsewhere on mainland France or Europe. Due to its curvy and narrow roads built alongside the hilly and rocky terrain, it is not a road trip destination for driving quickly. The old and quaint towns sitting en route of the major “motorways” on the island are another reason to not speed your way through a road trip. Corse merits a minimum of one week to travel throughout its numerous regions. An ideal two weeks in Corsica will allow ample time to appreciate wondrous sights to see and places to visit on your road trip itinerary. Based on how much time you have, we’ve put together a couple of ideas on Corsica road trip itineraries below.

Day 1: Ajaccio to Galeria (130 km)

The first day will begin in Ajaccio where you’ll get onto the D81 road. The D81 is likely the most scenic route on the island and will take you to see Calanques de Piana in addition to many other panoramic views along the way. The D81 runs close to the coastline before gaining altitude which means it’s a good opportunity to stop at the beaches of Plage de Péru or Plage de Menasina before reaching Piana. For lunch, stop in Cargèse, a coastal town with many restaurants and a convenient parking lot. From Cargèse, you’ll get back on the D81 towards the town of Piana. If you have time, make a detour to Plage d’arone , an absolutely stunning and less frequented beach. Once passing through Calanques de Piana, you’ll continue on the breathtaking D81 route until you reach Galeria for the evening.

Day 2 – 3: Galeria to L’Île-Rousse (50 km)

The drive from Galeria to L’Île-Rousse only takes on hour but there are many places to visit in this area. It’s recommended to spend two days here and enjoy the variety of beaches and towns. Calvi is the biggest coastal town with a big crescent bay of fine sand and a shallow beach. Other beaches near Calvi worth visiting include Plage de Sainte Restitude and Plage de l’Arinella . From Calvi, take a small detour towards the Village Abandonné d’Occi which is located by the town of Lumio. This site is really special and has a phenomenal view. Before reaching L’Île-Rousse, you’ll find a number of gorgeous beaches to stop at including Plage de Bodri and Plage d’Aregno .

→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in L’Île-Rousse ←

Day 4: L’Île-Rousse to Ghisoni (136 km)

From L’Île-Rousse, you’ll depart the coastline and head inland. The T30 road is one of the straightest roads on the island and you’ll get a brief break from the twist and turns. Before hitting Ponte Leccia, turn right onto D47 and eventually the D147 which runs along the river. This is an excellent area for camping in addition to hiking throughout the gorge , Gorge de l’Asco. After stopping in the small yet lovely town of Asco for lunch, continue to the river swimming area at Vasques baignades Asco for a brief dip. From Asco, you’ll need to slightly backtrack to get back on the main T20 road which leads south. After passing through the town of Vivario, stop at the beautiful Belvédère de Pasciola viewpoint before your end point of Ghisoni. Ghisoni is a favoured ski resort in the winter and is a refreshing change of setting to the beaches.

Day 5 – 6: Ghisoni to Porto-Vecchio (85 km)

As you venture down the mountain from Ghisoni, you’ll join the main road of T10 which will begin to run along the coast. Before getting to Porto Vecchio, stop at the must see yet underrated beaches of Plage de Tarco and Plage de Saint Cyprien . Once you get situated in Port-Vecchio as your end destination, we recommend staying there for two days to experience the handful of exquisite beaches in the area.

→ 🛌 Find places to stay in Porto-Vecchio ←

Day 7: Porto-Vecchio to Propriano (73 km)

The last leg of your journey will only take a little over an hour. This allows you to take your time in order to relish in your last full day on Corsica. Some significant beaches to view along this route include Plage de Roccapina and Plage de Tizzano . Other than beaches, there are some lovely towns to check out such as Sartène for a bite to eat and peaceful stroll. If you’re traveling with kids , make a visit to the animal farm at Le Parc Naturel d’Olva .

Day 1: Bastia to Macinaggio (37 km)

After a morning coffee in Bastia, you’ll head north to explore Cap Corse with Macinaggio as your destination. Along this route, you’ll pass through many coastal towns and beaches. Some favoured beaches include Plage de Pietracorbara and Plage de Meria . From Macinaggio, you can access a few hiking trails which will lead you to secluded beaches on the peninsula.

Day 2 – 3: Macinaggio to Saint-Florent (71 km)

The roads in Cap Corse are particularly narrow with many unpredictable turns. It’s best to take your time during this part of the trip. Next, you’ll cross Cap Corse and begin heading south. Getting from Macinaggio to Morsiglia in order to get on the D80 is the next goal. The D80 swiftly runs along the west side of Cap Corse. You can stay near the coastline or head up into some of the hillside villages such as Bracolaccia . You’ll soon reach the quaint and picturesque town of Saint-Florent which is wonderful for a short stay.

Day 4 – 6: Saint-Florent to Calvi (69 km)

Balagne is one of the best regions on Corsica for impeccable beaches and pretty hilltop towns. It’s recommended to stay a couple days here and travel among the area in order to visit the many places to see. Must visit stops include the view from Notre Dame de la Serra and abandoned village of Occi . The city of L’Île-Rousse is a perfect place to find fabulous restaurants, bars and beautiful hotels. The Fanale di Petra attraction is a short yet rewarding hike with a view.

→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Calvi ←

Day 7 – 8: Calvi to Ajaccio (155 km)

The journey from Calvi to Ajaccio is a bit long and should be broken out into a couple of days in order to not feel rushed. The D81 route is spectacular and will take you to Calanques de Piana. Aside from this popular attraction, you can stop in a couple of charming towns along the way such as Osani and Porto. You’ll find many other mesmerising viewpoints in this area around Réserve Naturelle de Scandola (or Scandola Nature Reserve) which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and fantastic for bird watching! Between Piana and Ajaccio, you’ll be surrounded by an endless number of beach options as long as you stay on the D81.

Day 9: Ajaccio to Propriano (70 km)

Driving from Ajaccio to Propriano will not take you long. Use this extra time to explore some smaller coastal towns along the journey. Porticcio , Isolella and Porto Pollo are all exquisite and should be stops on your Corsica itinerary.

Day 10: Propriano to Bonifacio (65 km)

The coastline between Propriano and Bonifacio is equally as impressive as the one near Port-Vecchio. As most of the beaches sit in between coves and bays , the water is calmer here and ideal for an afternoon spent relaxing. Bonifacio is a romantic little town perched on the cliffside and is a wonderful place to grab lunch or dinner with a stunninng view. On the edge of the the village, you’ll also find Escalier du Roy d’Aragon , a steep staircase carved into the cliff which leads directly to the sea.

→ 🛌 Find a place to stay in Bonifacio ←

Day 11 – 12: Bonifacio to Port-Vecchio (28 km)

Porto-Vecchio and its bounty of beaches to choose from is only 30 minutes from the port town of Bonifacio. Thus, freeing up some extra time to spend at either end. Other than beaches, there isn’t much else to see during the route. Still, trust that you’ll want to keep your itinerary loose in order to visit multiple southern Corsica beaches. Some lesser known alternatives to the popular Santa Giulia Beach are Plage de Cala Longa , Plages de Sant’Amanza and Plage de Benedettu which are all accessible by car .

Day 13 – 14: Porto-Vecchio to Bastia (188 km)

Your last route from Porto-Vecchio to Bastia begins on the T10 which turns into the T11. This road is fairly straight forward and connnects Corse-du-Sud (south) to Haute-Corse (north). The journey takes you along the coast where you’ll find Chez Costa , a well rated seashore restaurant with a great view. Corsica’s east coast is practically one long stretch of beach and you may find a lovely place for a pit stop such as Plage de Serra di Fium’orbu . Exploring the seafront town of Bastia is worthy of an entire day before your road trip concludes.

Hopefully, you now have a better idea of what to expect from a Corsica road trip. The next step is to double check if you are fully prepared and equipped to tour Corsica by car. Here are a few critical details to be mindful of when planning your Corsica road trip.

Since Corsica is technically France, you’ll still be located in the European Union. If you’re coming from another EU country or have purchased a travel SIM card which works anywhere in the EU, you will have full internet access on your phone. This will make it a lot easier to get around on the island when using GPS. Before arriving in Corsica and when you have wifi access, always make sure to download an area on Google Maps so it’s accessible even when you’re offline. Data connection can be spotty on Corsica, particularly when driving in less populated areas.

If your Corsica road trip is scheduled in the summer time, it’s recommended to book your accommodation in advance. Road trips taking place in the spring or fall have the luxury of some spontaneity if you’re travelling with a loose itinerary. Finding a last minute hotel, Airbnb or apartment in Corsica is certainly doable but you may not want to risk it during peak season. Book a place to stay (last minute or plenty in advance) with Booking.com for the best prices.

Your packing list for a Corsica road trip should have emphasis on making sure you’re able to encounter any unforeseen situation on the road. If you were to break down during your road trip, there are luckily many towns and villages located close to each other so you’ll find a haven if absolutely necessary. Still, it’s best to be prepared with these additional items in your car. – Drinking water – Non perishable snacks – Good shoes for walking – Car phone charger – Warm clothes and extra blanket(s) Aside from emergency scenarios, these are some items to pack to ensure a delightful road trip: – Photography equipment including GoPro or other action camera – Snorkeling gear – Beach or picnic blanket – Plenty of sunscreen

Corsica is French after all which means they’ll expect you to know as much French as possible. This is kind of a joke but also kind of the reality. 🙂 Corsica also has their own local language and if you take some time to learn a few phrases, you’ll be sure to impress one or two people!

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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BLOG , CORSICA , Destinations , Europe , France , Road Trips , Travel Guides · August 13, 2023

The Very Best Corsica Itinerary – A 7 Day Road Trip

If you’re looking for the ultimate road trip itinerary around Corsica then you’ve come to the right place. This incredible island in the Mediterranean Sea is perfect for a self-drive holiday and I am a 100% sure you’ll have the best time exploring this drop dead gorgeous island.

Corsica is one of the most diverse islands in Europe when it comes to nature . Wether you want to visit l’Ile de Beauté for its pristine beaches, its historic and charming towns or its spectacular mountainous region. The island of Corsica has something to offer for everyone .

This 7 day Corsica itinerary is perfect for the efficient traveler who loves to visit as many places as possible during their holiday.

I visited Corsica at the start of April and while the weather was pretty okay at times I don’t recommend doing the same. A lot of hotels and restaurants were still closed and some roads higher up in the mountains were still covered in snow. Keep on reading to find out what is the ideal time to visit Corsica.

In this Corsica holiday guide you’ll find a ton of tips for visiting the island, my personal itinerary, the best places to eat and where to stay in Corsica .

I hope you’ll enjoy this Corsica itinerary and if you have any questions feel free to drop a comment below.

Do you want to explore the stunning landscapes and crystalline waters of Corsica ? An island steeped in history with a unique culture waiting to be discovered?

With its rolling hills, majestic mountains, rugged coastline, and picturesque villages, you won’t want to miss the chance to witness this spectacular Mediterranean island.

This introductory article will provide an insider’s guide to the very best of Corsica , featuring a comprehensive 7-day road trip itinerary that will lead you through the diverse and breathtaking destination.

From discovering hidden coves to exploring ancient archaeological sites, you’ll find something that suits you in this carefully curated itinerary. So, start planning your journey today and prepare to experience the wonders of Corsica !

How to reach Corsica

Reaching Corsica can be achieved in a multitude of ways. The most convenient way is to fly into one of the region’s four international airports, located in Bastia, Figari, Calvi and Ajaccio . Air Corsica, Air France, and Volotea offer daily flights throughout the year from French destinations including Marseille, Nice, Paris Orly, and Lyon. Other airlines provide seasonal and charter direct flights to and from Corsica’s four airports.

The flights vary in price depending on the season, but there are also ferry services available from France and Italy that can be a more cost-effective option .

Additionally, there are a number of cruises that make a stop in Corsica for a taste of the region’s beauty and culture. These cruises are most popular during the summer months when the Mediterranean climate is perfect for soaking up the sun. Popular cruise stops in Corsica are Porto Vecchio, Calvi, Bonifacio and Bastia.

For my road trip I chose to fly in and out of Figari near Bonifacio and pick up my rental car at the airport.

The best time to visit Corsica

The best months to visit Corsica are  May, June and September . During these months the weather is already nice and warm but  France  and Italy’s summer-holiday crowds are absent. You’ll be able to enjoy all of the activities the island has to offer and hotel prices won’t skyrocket through the roof yet. Especially  if you love to go hiking these are the ideal months .

If it’s not possible for you to travel off season then  July and August  are beautiful months to visit Corsica as well. Just know that temperatures will a lot hotter and you’ll have to deal with the big crowds. If this is the case it’s best to  book your accommodation well in advance  to avoid steep price increases and the best hotels getting sold out.

I visited in April and while I still had an amazing time it’s really not ideal. The season hasn’t started yet so a lot of hotels and restaurants are still closed. The weather can also be very unpredictable and you’ll have to deal with a lot of rain on certain days. I even drove through a snowstorm so I wouldn’t advice you to go in April for the best experience.

How to get around Corsica

The best way to get around Corsica is to simply  rent a car .

🚘 I always use  SunnyCars  when booking a rental car cause their company policy makes me feel the most at ease.

There’s  never any hidden costs  with them and free  cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start . Their price is transparent and everything is included. So no worries about any extra costs when you pick up your rental.  You won’t need any extra insurance cause its all covered in the original price.

Is Corsica worth visiting?

Corsica has a captivating combination of stunning wild landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and ancient historical sites. From the highest mountains in the Mediterranean to the beautiful bays that line the coast, there’s something for everyone .

Whether you’re looking to explore hiking trails, relax in the sun, or take in the historical sites, Corsica has it all.

With its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and unique cuisine, it’s well worth visiting. With so much to offer, it’s no wonder why Corsica is one of the top vacation spots in Europe .

The perfect Corsica Road Trip Itinerary

DAY 1 – Arrive in Figari and visit Bonifacio

There are 4 international airports in Corsica. I opted for Figari Sud-Corse Airport due its direct flight from Brussels Charleroi Airport.

The airport is very small so disembarkation went very fast.

The rental car booth is located right outside of the airport and after picking up my rental car from SunnyCars it was time to drive to Bonifacio.

Bonifacio is the most Southern town in entire Corsica and if there’s one coastal town you absolutely can’t miss it’s this one!

Bonifacio is the perfect starting point of your trip if you land in the airport of Figari, from there it’s only 30 minutes driving to this wonderful village . The roads inside the city itself are pretty narrow but there are plenty of parking lots. Two of them are located near the marine, the other two are closer to the old city.

The Old City of Bonifacio is  located in a 9th century citadel  and consists of a maze of small cobblestoned streets.

💡  TIP  – Hike to the Phare de Pertusatu to get the best views over Bonifacio. It’s an easy hike which will take you alongside the cliffs.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – Have lunch at  Café Des Vestiges  and try their Aubergines à la Bonifacienne, a lovely and typical vegetarian dish.

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  –  Hotel Sp a Genovese  for an unforgettable stay, a clifftop location and panoramic views.

DAY 2 – Explore the Aiguilles de Bavella

If you love hiking in a spectacular area or you just want to drive across a stunning landscape then you will love this part of Corsica! The Aiguilles de Bavella are only 1,5 hour driving from Bonifacio and consist of rocky spikes of red granite hat dominate the hill of the same name in Corse-du-Sud. The site is characterized by jagged peaks, large rock walls and pine trees twisted by the wind.

Following the route of the Col de Bavella between Sartene and across Corsica towards the east (north-west of Porto-Vecchio), you pass through the  Alta rocca mountains . The Col de Bavella itself reaches an altitude of 1218 metres with the peaks of the ‘needles’ reaching more than 1800 metres. 

The road up to the Col de Bavella offers some spectacular coastal views and it’s definitely a good idea to stop the car now and then to take them all in!

If you want to adventure a little more I can highly recommend going on one of the following hikes:

• Cascades de Purcaraccia Hiking Trail  – a 4.8km out & back trail that will lead you to some beautiful waterfall cascades.
• Tour des Aiguilles de Bavella  – A more demanding 11km loop trail that will take you through the stunning Aiguilles de Bavella.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – Have lunch at  A uberge du Col de Bavella  and indulge in one of the typical Corsican dishes such as Civet de sanglier (Wild boar casserole) or Veau aux olives (Veal with olives).

DAY 3 – Calanques de Piana

The Calanques de Piana is my personal favorite place in Corsica to explore . There are  a ton of beautiful hikes  here to explore the area but even if hiking is not really your cup of tea you’ll find plenty of things to do here!

One of the best things to do is simply drive through the stunning natural site. The Calanques de Piana is a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  featuring stunningly shaped red rock cliffs plunging into translucent water. From the water it resembles Scandola Nature Reserve but the biggest difference here is that you can also explore on foot or by car.

If you want to  visit the Calanques de Piana by car,  you have to take the  D81 road, connecting Porto to Piana . It’s the only road in the Calanques and its an absolute stunner! There are several small patches next to the road as well if you want to stop for a photo. Another option is to leave your car in Piana and explore on foot from there.

• The Capo Rosso hiking trail – The 6.9km hike passes by the  Genoese tower of Turghiu , one of the tallest towers on the Corsican coast, whose summit offers stunning views of the Gulf of Porto, the Gulf of Sagone and the Scandola Reserve.
• Source des Roches Bleues and Calanchi di Piana hiking trail – The 4.3km route  crosses the Dardo stream and offers a magnificent view of the Calanques de Piana .

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – You’ll probably stay here for a couple of days so I would recommend having dinner at  Le Moulin  and take their home made burger which comes with an incredible Corsican cheese sauce. Another day you should go eat at  Le Maquis  and order the Escaloppe Milanese! Both finger licking delicious!

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  – Stay at  Hôtel Bella Vista . There aren’t any luxury hotels in the area but this one comes with incredible panoramic views, a modern bathroom and clean rooms.

DAY 4 – Scandola Nature Reserve and Girolata

Scandola Nature Reserve is a stunning marine and terrestrial nature reserve in the East of Corsica that’s under  strict regulated access .

You can’t reach Scandola Nature Reserve on foot or by car,  the only way to visit is by boat . Luckily there are a ton of tour operators that offer excursions from the marine of Porto.

You can choose between different lengths but the best one to choose is where you’ll visit Scandola Nature Reserve, Girolata and the Calanques de Piana.

Girolata is a  former fishing village  that only has about a 20 inhabitants and which can not be reached by car.

There are  two ways to reach this hidden gem  in East Corsica:  on foot or by boat . If you want to go by boat you can book one of the many excursions that leave from Porto and where you’ll also visit the Scandola Nature Reserve .

The hike 9.7km to Girolata is called the  Sentier du Facteur  and it’s one of  the most beautiful hikes in Corsica !

The Sentier du Facteur is called this way because  the local mailman used to hike this trail every single day to deliver the mail to the people living in the small town of Girolata .

The hike starts at the Col du Croix where you can park your car and the first part simply goes down through a forest until you reach the  Plage de Tuara , a beautiful beach where you won’t find many other people.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – After reaching Girolata on foot you should have lunch at  R estaurant Le Bon Espoir  and try some of the best Corsican food you’ll have during your holiday!

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  – Stay at  Le Bella Vista  for a 2 bedroom apartment that offers incredible panoramic views.

DAY 5 – Explore the Balagne region

The Balagne region in Corsica offers a wealth of history, culture, and beauty, making it an ideal destination for those looking to explore the area. Verdant valleys, cobalt blue seas, and pale yellow sand beaches run the length of its coastline, providing beautiful vistas for travelers.

Its winding streets and delicious cuisine also make it an attractive place to explore as well .

A short hike up Monte Cintu offers breathtaking views from the peak, while the neighboring villages are stuffed with history and tradition, perfect for the inquisitive traveler.

With so much to see and experience, the Balagne region of Corsica is sure to be a memorable destination for any traveler looking to experience its culture and beauty.

The most charming villages to visit in the Balagne region

• Montemaggiore – The view of Montemaggiore as you approach the village is one of the highlights – it appears very small compared to the dramatic scenery around the village, which includes the  Monte Grosso mountain , and is perched on a ledge overlooking the valleys to the west.
• Lunghignano – The perfect stop after you visit Montemaggiore since it’s only a couple of minutes away.
• Aregno – Aregno is another one of these beautiful mountain villages in the Balagne region
• Sant’Antonino – Because of its dramatic situation clinging around the top of a hill the village is sometimes referred to as the ‘ Eagles Nest ‘.
• Speloncato – The best town to visit during sunset.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – L’Altezza Restaurant is your best bet in the area and offers delicious food! Or go to  I Scalini  for a Moroccan feel roof terrace with panoramic views over the city. Visit U Sechju  for a delicious lunch in a historical setting.

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  – Stay at  Cas’Anna Lidia – Hôtel De Charme , a boutique hotel with an outdoor heated pool and a hot tub overlooking the surrounding mountains. Or stay at Hotel A Piattatella , which is set in gardens, overlooking the Reginu Valley.

DAY 6 – Cap Corse

Cap Corse, which is often called mini Corsica, is the most northern peninsula of Corsica.

The eastern coast slopes rather gently to the sea and is home to many bays suitable for swimming , the most beautiful of which are at Pietracorbara , north of Macinaggio and near Barcaggio. 

To the west, the coast is much more rugged and the road sometimes passes well above sea level. The most beautiful village in Cap Corse is probably Centuri, famous for its lobster fishing . Its pastel-coloured houses with slate roofs crowd around the small port.

The ideal is to circumnavigate the Cap in an anti-clockwise direction  , from Bastia , in the direction of Saint-Florent . You will thus benefit from better light for your photos, while enjoying spectacular views since you will be driving on the sea side.

For a first discovery of the Cape, one day is more than enough, but the peninsula is extremely diversified and you can also spend several days there without any problem.

Best places to visit during a day trip around Cap Corse

• Bastia – Bastia is both the capital of the department of Haute-Corse and the most important port of the island in terms of maritime traffic.
• Erbalunga – It was  once the most important harbor on the Cap Corse , a fact supported by the magnificent houses that still stud the peninsula to this day.
• Porticiollo – A small coastal town on the East side of Cap Corse.
• Pietracorbara Beach – Perfect to lounge and relax during the middle of. theday and catch some waves.
• Moulin Mattei – A short walk will give you beautiful, breezy views from both sides of the Cape. In good weather you can see the Tuscan islands and the Italian coast.
• Centuri – Centuri is a beautiful coastal town that reaches all the way up into the mountains. Centuri port is the perfect place to indulge in some seafood cause the many restaurants will serve their catch of the day.
• Nonza – Its colorful buildings make it stand out from all of the other picturesque towns and form a wonderful contrast to its black beach all the way down below.
• Barrettali – A small town on the Cap Corse peninsula but definitely worth the stop while you’re driving down the D80.
• Saint-Florent – It is a friendly town, and though similar in style, less pretentious and more intimate than St Tropez.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  – Dine at  Le P irate  for the most perfect setting and a  Michelin star  experience or indulge in some of the finest lobster on Cap Corse at  Le Langoustier .

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  – Stay at the most stunning  Misincu , a 5 star hotel that forms the perfect base for exploring the area of Cap Corse

DAY 7 – Corte

Although Corsica is known for its beautiful coastline, most of the island consists of a rugged but spectacular mountain landscape . If you want to explore these mountains, the centrally located Corte is the ideal base.

Corte is a historic town in the heart of Corsica as it was the capital of Corsica from 1755 until 1769 during the “government of the Corsican nation” of Pascal Paoli. And during World War I, German prisoners were held in the citadel on top of the hill.

These days Corte is a university town which houses a ton of students. The old city is perched on top of a hill but is also easy accessible. Don’t even bother trying to park your car on the side of the road, instead simply park it at the  underground parking lot  and you’ll arrive in the heart of the Old City.

🥘  WHERE TO EAT  –  Restaurant La rivière des Vins  for delicious meats cooked in a wood fire oven, accompanied by homemade french fries.

🏨  WHERE TO STAY  – Stay at  Dominique Colonna  for a luxurious stay on the river’s edge.

This 7-day Corsica itinerary is an unforgettable experience . From the beautiful town of Bonifacio to the incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Gulf of Porto, you’ll get to enjoy the best of Corsica’s landscape and get a real feel for culture and history of the island.

Whether you’re a beach lover or a mountain enthusiast, Corsica offers something unique and special to its visitors. Take in the views, explore the charming towns or simply relax on the beaches. There’s nothing like a Corsica road trip.

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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Road Trip In Corsica | Best ITINERARIES for 2, 3, 5 and 7 Days Vacations

Travel author

My name is Karen Bradshaw, I’m a travel writer and fiction author with a passion for literature. In my spare time, I’m a big foodie and enjoy trying different cuisines as well as spending time with my three children

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Planning a road trip in Corsica doesn’t need to be overwhelming or headache inducing.

Road trips are an exciting part of life, allowing you to explore and do new things.

The right itinerary for Corsican trip will ensure that you are set up to enjoy your vacation without stressing about how you will spend your days.

Table of Contents

Why Road trip in Corsica?

Corsica is the fourth-largest French island in the Mediterranean Sea.

It is known for its easy vibe that is perfect for both European weekend break as well as an ideal honeymoon destination.

There are many reasons you should visit Corsica.

Here are the top reasons Corsica should be on the top of your travel list:

• Corsica’s capital city, Ajaccio, is the birthplace of Napoleon. The Bonaparte House, which was Napoleon’s family home, is now a national museum.
• Corsican cuisine benefits from the influence of both France and Italy.
• Corsica is an island in the Mediterranean Sea and so the water is warm and great to enjoy in many different ways. Sailing, sea kayaking, surfing, diving, water skiing, and jet skiing are great ways to spend a day.
• Bonifacio is a city that is unique and beautiful. The city of Bonifacio is divided into two parts. Vielle Ville is where most people live and is located on the harbor side. Haute Ville is set within a clifftop citadel from the 9th century, with narrow streets and shady squares.
• There are many beach options on the island of Corsica, guaranteeing everyone can find one they love.
• The Regional National Park of Corsica covers Two-thirds of the Island of Corsica. Some footpaths will take you from coast to coast. Part of the park is made up of the Scandola Nature Reserve , which has been designated a World Heritage Site.
• Locally produced wines are a great choice to accompany authentic Corsica meals.
• The original capital of Corsica was the city of Bastia. While it is no longer the capital, it is an upbeat place with many Baroque-style churches. Bastia is often chosen as a starting point for a holiday in Corsica as it is ideal for those traveling by ferry.
• 8 Things To Do In Porto Corsica
• Best Places To Stay In Corsica

Getting to Corsica

There are two different ways to access the island of Corsica.

The first is by air, and the second is by ferry:

• Air – There are four airports on the island of Corsica. The two largest airports are Ajaccio, located at the islands southwestern coast, and Bastia, which is located on the northeastern coast. There are no direct flights from the US to Corsica, so many Americans choose to fly to Paris before catching a connecting flight to Corsica. Air France and Air Corsica offer flights from most major French cities year-round. During the summer months, budget airlines offer additional flights from numerous European cities.
• Ferry – If you would rather travel to the island by ferry, several lines offer year-round service from Marseille, Nice, and Toulon. There are also summer routes that are provided from several Italian ports.

Two-Day Itinerary

If you are going to be in Corsica for a weekend, it is ideal to stay close to your arrival city to make the most of your time.

There are different itinerary options based on which city you are going to arrive into.

Two days in Bastia

Day one: On your first day, plan to visit:

• St. Nicholas Square, the city’s main square
• Napoleon Street, and its oratories
• The market to buy local products
• The Church of St. John the Baptist, and its two bell towers
• The Old Port
• One of Bastia’s many beaches

Day two: On your second day, you should explore the city’s surroundings by taking a road trip in the Cap Course, North of Bastia.

Two days in Ajaccio

Day One : One your first day, plan to visit:

• The Imperial Chapel
• The National Museum of the Bonaparte House
• The Ajaccio Cathedral
• One of Ajaccio’s beaches
• At sunset, book a boat trip to the Sanguinaires islands

Day Two : On day two, book a boat trip to visit the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Two Days in Calvi

Day One : One your first day, plan to attend:

• The old town and its many shops
• The Citadel with beautiful views of the city
• The port, for lunch on the terrace
• Calvi beach which is a long white sand beach with fantastic turquoise waters.

Day Two: One day two, plan a road trip to discover the perched villages of Balagne.

Find out more

• Is Calvi Beach Corsica worth visiting?

Two Days in Porto Vecchio

Day One: One your first day, plan to visit the Citadel or upper city. While you are here, visit the Fortress of the Standard and discover the King of Aragon’s Staircase.

Day Two: On day two, visit the Lavezzi Islands to see heavenly coves and turquoise waters.

Three-Day Itinerary

A three-day trip to Corsica offers a little more flexibility in your itinerary then a two-day trip.

However, it is still recommended that you choose a city and visit its surroundings.

Three Days in Bastia

Day One: On your first day in Bastia, take time to explore the city.

Day Two: On your second day in Bastia, drive to Saint-Florent and take the shuttle to the Agriates Desert. The Agriates desert is home to two beaches, the Saleccia and Lotu.

Day Three : On the third day of your trip, take a road trip to Cap Course to explore the city’s surroundings.

Three Days in Ajaccio

Day One : On your first day in Ajaccio, take a morning walk around the city to explore the local culture. In the afternoon, take a twenty-five-minute drive to Parata Peninsula to see the islands’ most magnificent views.

Day Two : On your second day, take a boat trip to the Scandola Nature Reserve, the Calanques de Piana, and Girolata. While exploring their World Heritage Sites, you will discover magnificent natural landscapes.

Day Three : On your third day, admire the city and cliffs of Bonifacio from the sea. The boat cruise to Bonifacio also includes four hours to walk around the city and explore.

Three Days in Porto-Vecchio

Day One: Take day one to discover some of the most beautiful beaches in Rondinara, Santa Giulia, or Palombaggia. While driving to these beaches, you will be able to explore some of the surrounding landscapes.

Day Two : On day two, drive to the Cavu valley. The Cavu valley will allow you to swim in natural swimming pools , walk through the forest, and climb in an adventure park.

Day Three: On your third day, take a boat trip from the Marina of Porto-Vecchio to the Lavezzi Islands.

Three Days in Calvi

Day One: One your first day in Calvi, spend the day discovering the city on foot. For the evening, book a cruise to the Relellata Peninsula for the most fantastic sunset view.

Day Two: One your second day, drive to the perched villages of Blanagne and then to the Forest of Bonifatu. This will give you a great day of hiking, followed by a refreshing swim in a river.

Day Three: On your third day, walk to the Revellata Peninsula. While on the peninsula, you can swim at Alga beach or in one of the many small coves. In the afternoon, hike up to the Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra to see the most fantastic view over Calvi bay.

Five-Day Itinerary

When you decide to spend five days on the island of Corsica, you can see a lot more than the two and three-day trips.

When you plan a five-day trip, you will want to start in either Bastia or Ajaccio.

Five Days Starting in Bastia

Day one: On your first day, take time to stroll through the city of Bastia. Explore the Terra Vecchia and Terra Nova districts and discover the local treasures. End your first day at one of the nearby beaches.

Days two and three: Spend two days in Cap Course. On the first day in Cap Course hike, the East Coast on the customs officers’ path from Macinaggio to Barcaggio. On your second day, drive along the West Coast and discover the beautiful scenery. End your day with a night spent in Saint-Florent.

Day Four: From Saint-Florent, take a boat to the Agriatese Desert. While you are here, you can spend a relaxing day swimming and sunbathing on the beaches of Saleccia and Lotu.

Day Five: Spend your fifth day discovering Corte. Here you can find the Citadel, the Musee de la Corse, and the Cours Paoli.

Five Days starting in Ajaccio

If you choose to keep Ajaccio as your home base, you can use this itinerary.

Day One: Take your first day to walk around Ajaccio and explore the old town. Spend the afternoon discovering the Sanguinaires Islands.

Day Two: Spend your second day taking a boat trip to the Scandola Nature Reserve.

Day Three: Spend the day relaxing at one of the many beaches near Portoccio. You can also enjoy a wide range of water activities such as kayaking.

Day Four: Take a mini cruise to Bonifacio and spend the day visiting the Citadel.

Day Five: On your last day, you can spend the day at the beach relaxing. If you are a thrill-seeker, give canyoning a try.

Seven Day Itinerary

A seven-day trip to Corsica is the best way to get the most out of your journey.

There are three different ways you can spend your seven days in Corsica.

The three options are to stay in the Northern Part of the island, the Southern part of the island, or see the whole island.

Northern Stay

For this one-week trip around Northern Corsica, it is best to arrive in Bastia.

Day one: Start your trip to Corsica with a hike in Cap Course. Drive from Bastia to Macinaggio. Walk the coastal path from Macinaggio to Barcaggio. Once you arrive in Barcaggio, you can take a shuttle boat back to Macinaggio, where you will spend the night.

Day two: Spend your second day driving down the west coast of Cap Corse to the city of Saint-Florent. Some of the stops to make on this drive include:

• The Mattei Mill Viewpoint
• The Port of Centuri
• The Village of Morsigilia
• The small town of Pino
• The Village of Nonza

Once you arrive in Saint-Florent, spend the afternoon and evening walking through the narrow streets and at Roya Beach. Spend the night in Saint-Florent.

Day three: On your third day, take the shuttle boat from the Port of Saint-Florent to the Agriates Desert. Spend most of your day here and then take the boat back to Saint-Florent, where you will drive to the city of Calvi. Spend the night in Calvi.

Day four: Spend the morning of your fourth day walking up to the Citadel of Calvi. After you see the Citadel, walk to Calvi’s lower town, and explore the local shops and restaurants. After lunch, drive thirty minutes from Calvi to enjoy a hike in the forest of Bonifatu. Spend a second night in Calvi.

Day five: On the morning of day five, drive two hours to the Village of Porto. Once you arrive, take a cruise through the Scandola Nature Preserve and the Calanques de Piana. Spend the night in Porto.

Day six: From Porto, you are going to drive to Corte. On the way to Corte, enjoy these things to do:

• A hike in the forest of Aitone
• A walk to discover Nino Lake
• A swim at the Radule Waterfalls

Once you arrive in Corte, spend the rest of the day exploring the city on foot and spend the night in Corte.

Day seven: Spend the morning driving back to Bastia from Corte. Once you arrive in Bastia, you can discover the local attractions before you depart for home.

Southern Stay

For this one-week trip around southern Corsica, it is highly advised to arrive in Ajaccio.

You can either rent a car and get across on the ferry or arrive by plane and rent a car on the island.

Day one: Spend the first half of your first day walking around Ajaccio’s city center and discover the points of interest. You can drive twenty-five minutes to the Parata Peninsula and discover the Sanguinaires Islands archipelago for the afternoon. Spend your first night in Ajaccio.

Day two: Take the coastal road and drive from Ajaccio to Bonifacio.

On this drive, take the following rest stops:

• Porticcio – Here are three beautiful beaches you can stop in and enjoy a swim before getting back on the road.
• Propriano – In Propriano, there are many seaside restaurants and bars, making it an excellent stop for a lunch break. After lunch, explore Campomoro Bay, where you can take a hike around the Cape.
• Village of Sartene – The Village of Sartene is a great place to walk along the paved alleys and check out the stone houses.
• Casa di Roccapina Viewpoint – Shortly before arriving in Bonifacio, the Casa di Roccapina Viewpoint allows you to admire a large rock shaped like a lion overlooking the beach of Roccapina.
• Finally, spend the night in Bonifacio.

Day three: Spend the third day exploring the city of Bonifacio. You can also follow the coastal path that will take you to Trois Pointes Beach, or Petit Sperone Beach. If you are willing to walk a little further, you can also discover Grand Sperone Beach. Spend the second night in Bonifacio.

Day four: On your fourth day in Corsica, take a boat to the Lavezzi Islands. While you are on the islands, you can walk around the entire island and explore the panoramic views. After your day on the Lavezzi Islands, you will enjoy a guided cruise with commentary on your way back to Bonifacio. Spend a final night in Bonifacio.

Day five: Start your fifth day with a short drive to Porto-Vecchio and spend the day on one of the beautiful beaches in the area. Finish your day with a walk in the narrow streets of Porto-Vecchio. Top it off with a meal in the old town or on the Marina. Spend the night in Porto-Vecchio.

Day six: Spend your sixth day exploring the Ospedale and the Bavella Pass. Leave Porto-Vecchio and drive towards Zonza. On the drive, you will experience amazing views and a lot of opportunities for hikes. You can hike to Corsica’s largest waterfall, the Piscia Di Gallu, a two-hour round-trip hike. You can also hike to the Trou de la Bombe, which is a two-and-a-half-hour hike. Spend the night in the Village of Zonza.

Day seven: Start your morning doing the Bellava Pass Hike, about ten minutes from Zonza. Once you are finished, start your drive back to Ajaccio, stopping wherever you want.

• Most Popular Restaurants in Bonifacio

Whole Island Visit

If you would prefer to spend your seven days exploring the entire island, this is the recommended route to take.

You can spend each day exploring the local attractions around each city and town.

Day one : Bastia, Erbalunga, Pietracorbara, and Macinaggio

Day two : Pino, Desert of Agriates, Saleccia beach, and Calvi

Day three : Porto, Scandola Reserve, Calanques de Piana, and Ajaccio

Day four : Sanguinaires Islands

Day five : Propriano, Roccapina Beach, Bonifacio, and Lavezzi Islands

Day six : Rondinara Bay, Palonbaggia Beach, Porto-Vecchio, and Zonza

Day seven: Aiguilles de Bavella, Purcaraccia Hike, and Back to Bastia

• Corsica vs Sardinia Travel Guide

As you can see, there are many different ways you can explore the Island of Corsica on a road trip.

There is no right or wrong way to see the island.

The main consideration should always be how long you have to visit, and what kind of trip you want to take and select the itinerary that best suits your wants and desired activity levels.

Whatever you decide, enjoy your Road Trip in Corsica!

Recommended reading: 7 Best Hikes in Corsica: Hiking in Corsica – a planning guide

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Road Trip in South Corsica : 1 week Itinerary

Road Trip in South Corsica : 1 week itinerary  

For our road trip in Corsica , we focused on Southern Corsica for 7 days . If you have the same time, we strongly recommend that you travel to only one part of the island. Indeed, the island of beauty is still quite vast and the winding roads make it sometimes long to arrive from point A to point B. The landscapes of Corsica have reminded us a lot of those of the Reunion Island (with much more beautiful beaches). Moreover, to discover our two-week itinerary in Reunion, click here . ?

In short: you will not be able to visit everything in a week in Corsica , so take the time to quietly discover the stages that we are going to offer you and to enjoy them.

Practical information for your road trip in Corsica

How to get to corsica.

Two options are available to you for traveling to Corsica :

• ✈️  Plane : the fastest way. There are three main airports in Corsica: Bastia, Ajaccio and Figari. To visit Southern Corsica, we advise you to land in Ajaccio or Figari. Find the best airline ticket prices here .
• ? Ferry : Corsica Ferries are available from Nice and Toulon. By booking in advance, you may find tickets at a good price. Depending on the fare, the ferry may be more economical than the plane as it does not require renting a car in Corsica if you are crossing with your own vehicle. Reservation here

Rent a car for your road trip in Corsica

We booked our car rental through the Skyscanner comparator . He found us an offer with the car rental company Sixt at Ajaccio airport. Everything went very well.

Rent a boat to visit Corsica in a different way:

Discover the magic of Corsica in an exceptional way by renting a boat with Click and Boat . Soak up the wild beauty of the island, giving you total freedom to explore almost inaccessible sites.

What budget for a week of road trip in Corsica?

Corsica is quite expensive. Prices are on average 20% higher than on the mainland. Here is the budget detail for our trip to Corsica :

• Flights Lyon – Ajaccio : 75€ per person
• Car Rental : 200€ for the week
• Gasoline fees : 100€ for around 700 km traveled
• Hotels : 100€ per night on average in high season
• Restaurants : 50€ per day per person for 2 meals

Total = 1 850€ for a 7-night stay =  925€ per person , excluding activities.

Note: this budget can obviously vary according to the price of car rentals and planes, but also according to the standard of the hotels / restaurants you choose. We are only talking about our experience here.

When to go to Corsica?

As with many European destinations, the best time to travel to Corsica is from May to June , then September to October . During these 4 months, the temperatures are mild and you avoid school holidays. This has two advantages: lower prices and fewer tourists.

? However, Corsica is beautiful all year round! In winter you can even ski with a sea view.

Road Trip in South Corsica: one week itinerary

Days 1 to 2: propriano.

For the start of your road trip in Corsica , we recommend that you book your first two nights in Propriano . This base is ideal for exploring the surroundings.

Where to sleep in Propriano?

At  Casa Mare E Vista , a guest house with elegantly decorated sea view rooms and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool. Very good value for money for Corsica!

What to do in Propriano and its surroundings?

We have spread this program over 2 days so that you can enjoy each place with confidence, without rushing.

Roccapina Beach

Unmissable during your weekly trip in Corsica , Roccapina beach is one of our favorites in southern Corsica. The sand is white and the water is translucent. We recommend that you take the short hike that leads to the Genoese tower of Roccapina . You will see that the landscape is even more beautiful when you gain height. ? The more courageous will continue the path to the famous Lion of Roccapina rock , for an even more panoramic view.

⏱   Duration: allow about 40 minutes round trip to the Genoese tower or 2 hours round trip to the lion rock

? How to get to  Roccapina Beach 

To access it, you don’t even have to walk! Lots of people park in the parking lot near the main road and walk 7 km round trip. However, two large car parks are free at Roccapina beach . The path to get there is bumpy but still passable. Don’t be afraid and go (slow).

Once you get to the end, you will have an intersection with two possibilities: keep to the right to be as close as possible to the start of the short hike!

Lunch at the Acciola sheepfold

The hike to Roccapina will probably have made you hungry. That’s good, because we’ve found a great place to eat nearby.

Meet at Acciola’s sheepfold to taste Corsican specialties and with a magnificent view, please! We tasted the burger and the aubergines Bonifacienne: to die for ? The products are local, fresh and cooked with passion.

? Our advice: call ahead to book a table.

Visit of the Village of Sartène

Sartène is a typical Corsican village , highly recommended by tourist guides. Well, without wanting to offend anyone, we found him a bit on the side. Yes, the few stone streets have their charm, but the tourist shops are not typical.

You can still take a walk for an hour in Sartène to digest, on the way back to Propriano, in order to form your own opinion.

? You can also opt for an even more enjoyable ride by renting an electric bike.

Aperitif and dinner at Charlot

A sunset with a view of Propriano bay , accompanied by traditional Corsican cuisine ? If that makes you want as much as we do, go to the restaurant Chez Charlot in Viggianello!

? Reservation strongly recommended to have the best table on the terrace.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Chez Charlot (@chez_charlot) le 12 Juil. 2019 à 4 :50 PDT

Swimming in the Baraci river

With these rocks in red / orange tones, it feels like another country! For a quiet swim in (a little) cool water, it’s here. The access is quite steep but without great difficulty. See GPS coordinates

Kayaking excursion in Campomoro Bay

Campomoro Bay is 15 km from Propriano . During this sea kayaking trip , the guide will explain all about the marine fauna! You can also swim in a wild cove on the edge of an island. A little bonus that is pleasant: the effort will be rewarded with a tasting of Corsican sweets ?.

? This activity is accessible to young and old. For info and to book: click here!

Surf Lesson

Surfing in Corsica? Yes! When we tell you that we can do anything on the Island of Beauty, we are not lying to you!

If you want to take a surf lesson in Corsica for the first time or even for experienced beginners, you can contact the WaterPlay organization. The team is super nice! It also takes place in the bay of Campomoro.

? Small precision: this activity is only possible on days when there are waves of course ?.

Dinner « Chez Antoine »

To recover from this second sporting day of road trip in Corsica , nothing better than a good dinner! Chez Antoine , you will find a nice decoration, a superb view and very good dishes. The restaurant is best known for its fish and shellfish dishes. Apparently the cocktails at the downstairs bar are delicious! ? They also serve tapas, for those who wish.

Days 3 to 5 : Bonifacio, let’s continue the road trip in Corsica

Bonifacio was our favorite stop on this road trip in Southern Corsica . This little town has a lot of charm, but its surroundings have so much more! The beaches in Bonifacio, wilder than elsewhere , are not to be missed.

Where to sleep in Bonifacio ?

We stayed in a villa at Residence Terra Marina . The accommodations are very well equipped and comfortable, with a real barbecue for the evening meal! The swimming pool at Residence Terra Marina offers an incredible view of the sea, the cliffs and the beautiful town of Bonifacio. Having breakfast with this view is the best way to start a day of road trip in Corsica … ?

Here are 2 other recommendations if you have a smaller budget :

• Right in the center of Bonifacio, on the port, the Best Western Hotel du Roy d’Aragon is top notch.
• More out of the way but with an incredible view of the mountains, A Santa Trinita offers comfortable accommodation at good prices.

What to do in Bonifacio?

The beach and the trou saint-antoine.

Located in Cap de Pertusatu , Saint-Antoine beach enjoys a privileged location, in the heart of the Bonifacian cliffs . About a hundred meters away is the Trou Saint-Antoine , which houses a small cove accessible by the sea. If you have the motivation, you can swim there from the beach.

? Our advice: go in the late morning so that the sun is straight and there is no shade in the hole! Do not forget your bottle of water, there is no trade on site. Access : 15 minutes by foot from the car park (free). Simply put “plage Saint-Antoine” in your GPS app.

?  Our Secret Spot

We have found a dream location for you, at the foot of the cliffs, not far from Saint-Antoine beach . Here, no sand, but magnificent blue water. You can swim without any problem, the descent into the sea is via the rocks, where it is very easy to climb back up .

? Access : allow 10 minutes to descend from this parking spot . The path is on the bend, there is only one path to the sea. Don’t forget your masks and snorkels!

Petit Sperone & Grand Sperone Beaches

Very well known in Bonifacio , the beaches of Petit and Grand Sperone have the allure of the Caribbean . The water is crystal clear for tens of meters. ?

We went to  Petit Sperone Beach , very easily accessible in a 15-hour walk from the parking lot (free). Our feeling: we did not like this beach, which is too crowded with a lot of families with children. Outside of school holidays, we might have liked it more!

? We have been told that the Grand Sperone beach is less crowded with people because it is still a little further away.

Paddle in Piantarella Beach

Paddle boarding is an activity accessible to the greatest number! It allows you to explore places differently and to discover secret spots. ? Meet in the lagoon of Piantarella for a heavenly paddle session.

The beaches of Paraguan and Fazio

Another small disappointment for us who couldn’t wait to discover Paraguan beach . Once there, a large layer of Posidonia (marine plants which attest to the quality of the water) spread over the entire surface of the sand. Note: Please don’t misinterpret our words – it’s great that these plants are there and the water quality is excellent.

So we decided to walk 20 minutes to Fazio beach , but people on the way told us that it was full of people. U-turn then…

? You can still try to see Paraguan Beach because access is easily done by car. A gust of wind may have driven the plants away! The water is crystal clear, as you can see:

Take an excursion to the Lavezzi islands

The archipel of the Lavezzi Islands , classified as a nature reserve, is unique in the world. Not only will you be able to bathe in crystal clear waters bordered by huge granite rocks, but the return boat trip will also allow you to admire Bonifacio and its cliffs from the sea!

?  How to visit Lavezzi Islands?

To get to the Lavezzi Islands , you have the choice between two options :

• Take a shuttle from the port of Bonifacio. The boat will drop you off in 30 minutes on Lavezzu Island (the main one). The return trip lasts 1 hour to enjoy the landscapes. This solution is more economical but it will only allow you to stop. You can of course stay on site as long as you want. Just don’t miss the last boat! Here are the prices: Adult: € 37, Student: € 32.50, 13 to 17 years old: 28.50 €, 4 to 12 years old: 18.50 €. No reservation necessary: ​​departures and returns every hour. To park, the boat company has 2 free parking spaces for their customers, ask their port office.
• Book a day trip . The cruise includes 2 stops: a stop in a cove on Lavezzu Island and a swim in the lagoon of Sperone. This option is more expensive than the previous one, because it includes: a breakfast, a lunch with lobster pasta, and drinks. On the return trip, the captain will also take you to observe the beautiful landscapes of Bonifacio. Price: € 95 per adult with the service provider L’Autre Croisière.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Best of Corsica (@bestofcorsica) le 5 Juin 2020 à 1 :27 PDT

Visit Downtown Bonifacio

Bonifacio , nicknamed “ the City of the Cliffs ”, is a place full of charm. The city is in two parts: on the one hand, the marina with its restaurants, shops and bars; on the other hand, the upper town, which is full of local addresses, small alleys and pretty viewpoints.

What to do in the center of Bonifacio?

• Take the King of Aragon stairs: for the modest sum of € 3.50, we invite you to discover the famous King of Aragon stairs, carved by man in the cliff. The landscapes are breathtaking (the same goes for the 187 steps ?).
• Getting lost in the alleys: this is the best way to discover the upper town! Take the opportunity to taste delicious ice cream from Rocca Serra.
• Go up to the Saint-Roch Chapel: on the way, you can admire beautiful panoramas of the cliffs, the sea and in particular Sardinia. We warn you: it climbs a little! ? You can access it by car if necessary, but it is difficult to park.
• Take a hike: for the more motivated, the hiking trails of Campu Rumanilu and Pertusato allow you to reach the center of Bonifacio. Ideal place for a running or a walk on the cliffs (in complete safety)!

? One last tip: the difference in height and the heat do not mix well in Bonifacio. Get up early to enjoy the city without dying of heat and especially to be more peaceful.

Sunset with a view : Bonifacio and its cliffs

Ahhh that makes you want, eh? Well Named! As you can see in the following photos, we have found the perfect place to watch the sun set behind the cliffs and landforms of Bonifacio. Here are the GPS coordinates.

⚠️ Be careful when you approach the cliffs, we don’t want an accident.

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par Yann ♡ Aurélie – Blog Voyage (@amoureuxdumonde) le 16 Juil. 2020 à 3 :43 PDT

Dinner on the port of Bonifacio at Del Ferro Restaurant  ?

After admiring the sunset, head to the port of Bonifacio for dinner. There are several reasons to eat at Del Ferro :

• The food is absolutely delicious, with local products
• Everything is fresh and homemade
• The price / quality ratio is excellent with good quantities
• The restaurant is quiet, on the port of Bonifacio
• The address is brand new, with a bohemian decoration

And our best argument for the end: Restaurant Del Ferro was created by a lovely couple. You will therefore be very well received. We wish them the success they deserve!

?Address : 3 quai Banda del Ferro, Bonifacio.

Days 6 à 7 : Porto Vecchio, last stop of the road trip in Corsica

Porto Vecchio  was the last stop on our 1 week Corsica road trip . Time has passed at breakneck speed! We leave this island with the promise of coming back soon … In our opinion, you will do the same! ?

Where to sleep in Porto Vecchio?

We stayed at the Santa Giulia Palace residence. Apart from the beauty of the place, the geographical location is ideal: 7 minutes on foot from Santa Giulia beach !

If your budget allows it, let yourself be tempted by a premium apartment . You can enjoy your own jacuzzi in a small tree-lined garden and a Balinese-style outdoor shower ? Otherwise, they also offer cheaper accommodation . Within the residence, there are also 3 outdoor swimming pools, including a swimming lane overlooking the bay of Santa Giulia. Rates & reservation

Other recommendations for accommodation in Porto Vecchio :

• The Alcyon hotel residence , located 200m from the center of Porto Vecchio. Good value for money.
• The  B&B Auberge Belle Terre , located in Lecci 10 km north of Porto Vecchio. Good for small budgets.

What to do in Porto Vecchio ?

Purcaraccia waterfalls.

The Purcaraccia waterfalls are undoubtedly our favorite spot on this itinerary in southern Corsica . They are located a little over 50 km from Porto Vecchio, or 1h10 by road. This place will amaze you, in addition to refreshing you! If you want to fully enjoy it like we did, it is best to get there for 9am maximum. Around 10 a.m., the spot begins to fill up and loses its charm. Also, don’t forget to take water with you to last for several hours. You can go tobogganing and bathe in super clear water ? However, it does not exceed 15 ° C.

⏱  Access to Purcaraccia Waterfalls : Paradise has to be earned. Allow around 1 hour of walking to reach the pools (if you are not on the wrong path ?). Indeed, the trail is not very well marked and contains several intersections. We’ll help orient you to try to get to the top in 35 minutes like us ?.

How to get to Purcaraccia Waterfalls?

? Here is the exact location where you can park easily. To be at the waterfalls at 9 a.m., you must be parked at 8 a.m.

We warn you: if you decide to go there in the late morning or during the day, cars will be parked in single file for hundreds of meters (in high season, of course). So not only will you not be alone up there, but in addition you will add to the walk by trying as best you can to park somewhere.

Hike to the waterfalls of Purcaraccia:

The first part is quite simple: you will walk for ten minutes on a false rising flat, well signposted Take the opportunity to take pictures of the magnificent needles of Bavella, it is at the beginning that they can be admired at best.

⚠️ Then, in order not to get lost, you must stay as high as possible and never go down to the bed of the river . After about 30 minutes of walking, you will have no choice but to cross the stream. Don’t panic, there are plenty of rocks to cross. But if you can come up with sneakers that can take on water, better. At this point, there is a first small swimming spot to cool off a bit before the final stage: much steeper!

Once you’ve crossed the river, the golden rule remains the same: climb as high as possible ! It’s frustrating because it climbs sharply and you move away from the sound of the waterfalls, but that’s how you’ll get there the fastest.

Is it dangerous?

Although there is a bit of elevation at the end, the hike does not present any major difficulty , but it is not accessible to very fragile or elderly people either. We have seen families with children (5/6 years old) go up without a problem. There is no climbing to do on this hike contrary to what you can read on the internet. What people call “rock climbing” is just that you have to step over a few large rocks or logs at a few moments.

Once you get to the waterfalls, be careful, it’s slippery!

Canyoning in Corsica

If you want to explore the Purcaraccia waterfalls in a different way, a canyoning trip may be a good idea! It’s a safe way to toboggan and enjoy the canyons. Personally, we wish we did because it sounded super fun. To book, click here!

There are many canyons in Corsica . For those who just want to learn about canyoning, the Pulischellu Canyon is ideal and more suitable for families . Info & booking

Other swimming spots near Porto Vecchio

• Very close to the waterfalls of Purcaraccia, the waterfalls of Pulischellu are sublime but less impressive. They are accessible in 10 minutes on foot, therefore more frequented.
• Natural pools of Cavu : just 40 minutes from Porto Vecchio, they are even more crowded than Purcaraccia. As always, we recommend that you get there very early. They are reachable in 10 minutes by foot.

Porto Vecchio and its beaches

The major interest of Porto Vecchio is the beauty of the surrounding beaches. Indeed, the city itself did not convince us. It’s nice to go for a walk in the harbor, have an ice cream or have a drink with a view of the boats… but it is clearly not worth the surroundings. Porto Vecchio is the stage we least enjoyed during this road trip in Corsica . Why ? Because in high season, the beaches are taken by storm !

Let’s start with the most beautiful of all to our liking:

? Santa-Giulia Beach

We couldn’t wait to see her and were not disappointed. The water is crystal clear for tens of meters and its rocks reminded us of a famous Seychelles beach. On the other hand, it is very popular! If you don’t like being glued to your neighbors – especially during this Covid time – we recommend going early in the morning, or in the evening .

For lovers of sport and sensations, the beach has a nautical center with many activities.

? Palombaggia Beach

Palombaggia beach is also heavenly. Like its neighbor, the water is translucent and you have a foot for several meters. Many umbrella pines line the beach and give it a lot of charm.

? Palombaggia free parking : Be careful, the beach is very popular and the parking complicated (or expensive)! We advise you to park here for free as soon as possible. Around 11 am we found it without problem.

? Tamaricciu Beach

Right next to Palombaggia beach, this a little wilder and equally beautiful cove. We didn’t have time to go but it is very photogenic with its beautiful rocks and large pine tree by the sea. Free parking is located on the main road which runs along the beach. Otherwise, there is a paid parking lot with easy access to the west of the beach.

? Sea Kayaking in Pinarello Bay

To discover one of the most beautiful bays of Porto Vecchio in an original way, nothing better than a kayaking trip ! This activity is accessible to all and lasts half a day. You will discover landscapes worthy of a postcard and you will be able to swim. At the end, a tasting of Corsican specialties is offered to reward the effort. ?

Information & booking ?

? Rondinara Beach

Rondinara beach is located in a bay with calm and beautiful water. Again, this beach is very busy … so much so that we turned around when we saw the people and the crowded parking lot around 4pm. Official beach parking will cost you € 7.

? Free parking Rondinara : go here .

? Pinarello Beach

Even near Porto-Vecchio it is possible to find quiet and unspoiled places. To do this, all you have to do is go to Pinarello and explore its bay, which belongs to the coastal conservatory. It takes about 20 minutes from the center of Porto-Vecchio and the activity can be found here .

? Where to eat in Porto Vecchio?

Here are some good restaurant addresses in and around Porto Vecchio:

• The U Santa Marina, A Festa and Le Fort restaurants, located near Santa Giulia beach, enjoy a magnificent setting with a sea view. We tested the last two, they are good value for money.
• Overlooking Palombaggia beach, the Italian restaurant Costa Marina is an institution. The view is amazing!
• On the port of Porto Vecchio, Casa Corsa offers delicious dishes based on Corsican specialties.
• If you want to eat on Palombaggia beach, the Da Mare by Sea Lounge hut serves very good food and its decoration is stunning. Be careful, the prices go with the beauty of the setting.

BONUS : Visit the Corsican countryside (Zonza)

What we liked the most during our road trip in Corsica was the diversity of the landscapes! A few minutes from the beaches, you can find yourself in the heart of the mountains with freshness.

On the return trip to Ajaccio airport from Porto-Vecchio, we decided to go inland. The roads are winding and the landscapes evolve from turn to turn. We take full eyes! Here are the few stops we made on the way:

Ospedale lake

We accidentally discovered this pretty lake just below Zonza. This place is really peaceful and you can smell the fresh mountain air.

Piscia di Ghjaddu Waterfall

A nice walk to do in 1h30 round trip to see the waterfall of Piscia di Ghjaddu. The end of the route is a bit steep, but the walk is relatively easy. A hot spring with a small waterfall is 10 minutes from the start. See the route on VisoRando

  Voir cette publication sur Instagram   Une publication partagée par ??????? ???????? ? (@songes.bohemes) le 14 Juil. 2020 à 9 :15 PDT

This pretty village, perched in the middle of the mountains, is located an hour’s drive from Porto-Vecchio. We strongly recommend that you stop for lunch at the Eternisula restaurant . This is one of the best restaurants we have tried. The setting is cute, the service at the top, the menu is well prepared with delicious fresh products. Different small dishes are available, take several to share. The value for money is very good, it changes the huts on the beaches of Porto-Vecchio. ?

To digest, take a stroll in Zonza!

Col de Bavella

10 minutes by car from Zonza is the Col de Bavella (1218m). The spot is ideal for having a beautiful view of the needles of the same name and the neighboring massifs. It is also the starting point for many walks and hikes for young and old.

? Where to sleep in Zonza ?

For those who wish to stay a night in Zonza to enjoy the Corsican mountains, you can sleep in this accommodation which has a swimming pool and jacuzzi with views of the mountains. Excellent value!

We hope to have helped you with this weeklong itinerary in Corsica ! Please feel free to comment on your questions and share the article if you enjoyed it. ?

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Location d'un fourgon aménagé ou d'une moto à Porto Vecchio : la meilleure façon de découvrir l’Île de Beauté !

Notre agence, Corsica Road Trip, propose la location de fourgons aménagés (#ADRIA) sur Porto-Vecchio , mais aussi de motos BMW & BENELLI. Pourquoi partir à l’autre bout du monde lorsque l’on a tout ce qu’il faut à proximité ? Plages paradisiaques, eaux turquoises, sable fin et galets multicolores, réserves naturelles, cascades enchanteresses, montagnes sauvages aux reliefs si particuliers, villages pittoresques, falaises abruptes de calcaire blanc…, et tant d’autres panoramas feront de votre voyage en Corse une expérience unique !

Vous prévoyez un voyage en Corse en famille ou entre amis ? Vous ne trouverez pas meilleur compromis ! Corsica Road Trip fait plus que de la location de fourgons tout confort en mettant à votre disposition les équipements d’un mini camping-car. Nous vous proposons de voyager de la façon la plus nomade possible en profitant de prestations haut de gamme.

Consultez les avis sur nos fourgons tout confort !

La Corse à bord d’une BMW GS 1200 ou GS 1250 Adventure : un appel à la liberté

Vous rêvez d’un road trip moto en Corse ? Quoi de mieux qu’une BMW GS pour le réaliser ! Cette grosse cylindrée au standing incomparable caracole en tête des ventes partout dans le monde. L’ergonomie du passager est aussi soignée que celle du pilote et la selle est d’un tel confort qu’elle permet de longues heures de route sans fatigue .

L’esprit Corsica Road Trip

Qui n’a jamais rêvé de prendre la route en toute autonomie , sans itinéraire précis, à bord d’un véhicule suffisamment confortable pour que l’on n’ait plus envie de changer de mode de vie ? Laissez-nous vous guider. La Corse en elle-même est un site remarquable. Parce que notre île est belle et surprenante toute l’année, notre service est accessible aux locaux comme aux vacanciers, été comme hiver, avec tout le confort nécessaire. Nous serons heureux de partager avec vous la douceur de l’été, les couleurs uniques de l’automne, la quiétude de l’hiver et les beaux jours du printemps.

Nous vous proposons de réaliser un road trip en Corse sur mesure en alliant autonomie, confort et sécurité au volant d'un fourgon aménagé de dernière génération ou grâce à la location d'une moto de standing . Si vous n’êtes jamais venu en Corse, Corsica Road Trip vous propose la meilleure façon de la découvrir ; si vous êtes un habitué de l’Île de Beauté, il est temps de la laisser se dévoiler !

Vivez une expérience inoubliable à bord de nos fourgons aménagés Adria sans mettre votre confort de côté

Vous prévoyez un voyage en Corse en famille ou entre amis ? Vous ne trouverez pas meilleur compromis ! Corsica Road Trip fait plus que de la location de fourgons tout confort en mettant à votre disposition les équipements d’un mini camping-car. Nous vous proposons de voyager de la façon la plus nomade possible en profitant de prestations haut de gamme. Consultez les avis sur nos fourgons tout confort !

La Corse à bord d’une BMW GS 1250 ou une BENELLI 502 A2 : un appel à la liberté

Vous rêvez d’un road trip moto en Corse ? Quoi de mieux qu’une BMW GS pour le réaliser ! Cette grosse cylindrée au standing incomparable caracole en tête des ventes partout dans le monde. L’ergonomie du passager est aussi soignée que celle du pilote et la selle est d’untel confort qu’elle permet de longues heures de route sans fatigue

  Louez votre moto directement en ligne

Vivez une expérience inoubliable à bord de nos vans aménagés !

Pour un voyage en Corse en famille ou entre amis, vous ne trouverez pas meilleur compromis. Basée à Zonza, l'agence Corsica Road Trip fait plus que de la location de vans aménagés en mettant à votre disposition tout le confort d’un mini camping-car

Un road trip sur mesure

Réveillez-vous à l’Est en même temps que le soleil ; déjeunez nichés en haut d’un sommet pour profiter de la fraîcheur de la montagne et passez sur la côte Ouest pour un apéritif les pieds dans le sable, face au coucher du soleil avant un dîner à la belle étoile…

Contactez notre agence près de Porto-Vecchio pour de plus amples informations et pour effectuer la réservation d'un fourgon aménagé ou la location d'une moto . 

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Corsica Lovers

To awaken your senses in Corsica - Claire et Manu’s Blog

2 weeks in Corsica: our ideal itinerary (with photos)

by Claire ROBINSON , Region Lovers | 29 April 2023 | no intrusive ads, no sponsored content, just some affiliate links - if you use them, we get a small commission (read more)

With 2 weeks in Corsica , you have time to discover splendid landscapes in different corners of the island: charming villages, dreamy beaches, impressive mountains, breathtaking cliffs and historical citadels. Here is our ideal itinerary with the best of Corsica in 14 days in the north and south. Our tour allows you to plan everything with map, photos , places to see, where to sleep…

This guide is completely independent , based on our experiences. We visited the area anonymously, making our own choices and paying all our bills in full.

2 weeks in Corsica: general advice

Is it possible to visit corsica in 14 days.

With 14 days, you have time to explore a large part of Corsica, with a bit of each region: the southern beaches, the mountains, the unique sites of Piana and Bonifacio, the villages of the Balagne, the cities of Bastia and Ajaccio.

But of course, you have to do it in road trip mode, because the island is quite big. This article is for those who want to see as much as possible during their trip.

• How to get to Corsica

The itinerary below starts in Bastia . But it’s a loop. You can therefore start it at any city of arrival on the island.

Corsica is accessible by ferry from several cities in France and Italy. But be careful, ferry crossings are quite long, and for a trip of only 10 days, the interest of the ferry depends on your point of departure.

See available ferry schedules and book.

Otherwise, there are 4 airports where you can arrive in Corsica: Bastia, Calvi, Ajaccio, Figari. You can locate them all on the map below. Compare the destinations and flights available from your departure city .

How to get around

It is possible to explore certain regions without a car: There are guided tours that can take you to the most famous places: villages, desert, islands… But this limits you enormously. There is a lot to see! We really think that renting/renting a car is the best way to discover the island. See our tips for driving in Corsica .

Beware, in the middle of summer, the parking lots fill up completely, so it’s better to start your day early to enjoy it more.

OUR TIPS FOR RENTING A CAR IN Corsica

• Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
• Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
• Think of the complete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
• There is a lot of demand, book it early .

Driving time:

• Day 1 = 3h30
• Day 3 = 1h30
• Day 4 = 1h30
• Day 5 = 30min to 1h
• Day 7 = 1h30
• Day 8 = 2 hours
• Day 11 = 1 hour
• Day 12 = 3h
• Day 13 = 1 to 2 hours

Or create your own itinerary with our eBook.

USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A DREAM TRIP TO Corsica

All the information you need for your trip:

• 7 maps that make planning easier
• 130+ pre-selected locations
• Practical advice
• + 220 photos to help you choose

Day 1 – Tour of Cap Corse

Driving time = 3h30

The main excursion is of course the tour of the Cap Corsea wild region with only a few villages and impressive mountains plunging into the sea.

With only one day, you must limit your visits. But we recommend that you stop at all the viewpoints along the way.

Erbalunga , Port Centuri and Nonza are worth a visit. And it is the only place to find black beaches in Corsica. However, the color is not due to volcanic ash (as in other countries) but to an old abandoned asbestos mine on the coast. It is a wild jewel not to be missed!

Spend a night in the North of the Cap Corse. We recommend you:

• Le Tomino – see prices, pictures and availability
• or see the available accommodations

Spend the night in Saint-Florent by the sea, or in Patrimonio next door in the vineyards (Night 1/2). We recommend you:

• Hotel in downtown – good value for money The Flor Hotel is centrally located, but be aware that it does not have a large enough parking lot for all guests! see pictures and availability
• Hotel Tetolla Ideal to see the sunsets see pictures and availability
• In the vineyards At the Lustincone Inn in Patrimonio we loved the charm of the rooms, the delicious breakfast and the fantastic views from the terrace and pool! see photos and availability
• Store, in the mountains Hotel Dimora is located in the mountains above St. Florent, for peace, tranquility and beautiful views. See photos and availability

See the best hotel and rental offers

Day 2 – Saint-Florent and the Agriates desert

Travel time = 0

Today enjoy the bay of Saint-Florent to the west. Start by taking the boat to the Lotu beach and the Agriates desert. Either you enjoy the beach with the beautiful views of the mountains of Cap Corseor you can walk to discover the beach of Saleccia (1h walk in one direction). The place is magical and the views from the boat are superb. The Agriates desert is one of our favorite places in Corsica .

And on your return, explore the town of Saint-Florent with its citadel, its ice merchants and its marina. Admire the views of the bay with the mountains of Cap Corse.

Spend the night in Saint-Florent by the sea, or in Patrimonio next door in the vineyards. Night 2/2.

Day 3 – L’Île-Rousse

Driving time = 1h30

Today you drive south. Take the road to the Balagne. Enjoy a stop at the Ostriconi beach, one of our favorite sights in Corsica (and one of our favorite beaches , for that matter).

Make a stop at the park of Saleccia, to discover the wonderful garden and plants of Corsica.

Finish the day in L’Île-Rousse. It was founded by the most famous leader of the Corsican people Pasquale Paoli in 1758 (although the place has been inhabited since antiquity). He wanted a port that was not controlled by the Genoese. The main thing to do in Ile-Rousse is to enjoy the island walk to the top of the lighthouse. See our guide to visit Ile-Rousse .

Overnight in L’Île-Rousse – don’t miss the sunset!

We recommend:

• Quietly located in the heart of the city, the Rocabella Hotel is ideal for relaxation. see prices, pictures and availability
• Just steps away from the beach, Hotel Liberata & Spa offers a colorful and fun, yet cozy experience. see prices, pictures and availability
• For a good value, the Casa Rossa hotel, a little further from the center, is an excellent option. see prices, pictures and availability

Where to see the best rated accommodations in L’Île-Rousse

Day 4 – The villages of Balagne

Go up into the hills of the Balagne, to discover several typical villages of the region.

For example, we recommend:

• Pigna and its blue shutters (35min drive from Calvi)
• Sant’Antonino , one of the oldest villages in Corsica (30min drive from Calvi)
• Speloncato , less touristic, with its houses surrounded by rocks (50min drive from Calvi)

And finish the day in Calvi (Night 1/2). We recommend:

• Around the port Casa Bianca hotel with its modern decor and beautiful views – see pictures and availability
• Along the beach Hotel Onda where you will sleep almost with your feet in the water… See prices, pictures and availability
• On the heights a dreamy and luxurious stay in the hotel La Villa Calvi. See prices, pictures and availability

Or see all the best rated accommodations in Calvi .

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Day 5 – Bay of Calvi

Driving time = 30min to 1h

Today, discover the coast of Balagne and the citadel of Calvi. At the beach level, we recommend:

• the beach of Bodri with its very fine white sand
• Punta di Spanu , one of our favorite places in the region, with its rocks, its Genoese tower and its view on the bay of Calvi

Then in Calvi, start by admiring the citadel from the beach! Then go explore it.

Inside, you will discover a labyrinth of alleys, stairs, fortifications, and beautiful views in all directions. Among the monuments note:

• the church of St. John the Baptist
• the oratory of Saint-Antoine.
• MUDACC – the art museum of the citadel of Calvi with works of the Contemporary Art Fund

See our article dedicated to the citadel or our complete guide to Calvi .

Night in Calvi (2/2)

Day 6 – calanques de Piana and Scandola Reserve

Driving time = 2h

Today, continue your descent along the West Coast. We are going to one of the most famous places in Corsica!

With the calanques de Piana the Scandola nature reserve is a Unesco World Heritage Site. It is protected and access is limited. The cliffs and their geological formations are unique. The boat tours allow you to get up close and personal. The cliffs and colored rock formations are exceptional. Attention, reserve your place on the boat!

Night in Piana. We recommend 2 options:

Sleep in the village of Piana, in the heart of the Calanques on a higher ground. Many hotels have incredible views of the Gulf. For example the Scandola hotel – see prices, pictures and availability

Sleep in Porto Ota, the village located in the center of the gulf. It is convenient for boat tours. For example, at the Residence Hoteliere Capu Seninu with its breathtaking views. – see prices, pictures and availability

Day 7 – Ajaccio

Driving time= 1h30

Take time to explore the old town, walk around the fort, see the market and visit the churches. In terms of visits, we recommend

• The Palais Fesch with the fine arts museum inside. The collection of paintings is impressive with great Italian artists. One of the most beautiful in France – schedules and rates on the official website
• The National Museum of Bonaparte House – where Napoleon was born in 1769, and where he spent part of his childhood – schedules and prices on the official website
• But if you prefer nature, take the boat to the îles sanguinaires! See options and availability

Night in Ajaccio – our suggestions:

• Luxury – Hotel Le Week-End, by the sea See photos and availability
• Hotel central – Hotel San Carlu Citadelle Ajaccio, well located See photos and availability
• Out of town – Hotel Les Mouettes with its pool on the waterfront See photos and availability

or See the best hotel and rental offers

Day 8 – Ajaccio to Propriano by the coast

From the airport or the port, head south along the coast. There are many beautiful places. Our favorite stops are:

• The peninsula of Isolella with its beautiful beaches. You can stretch your legs a bit by exploring
• The beaches of Mare E Sole and Verghia, with a touch of the Seychelles
• Visit the site of Filitosa – a fascinating prehistoric site with many statue-menhirs!

Night in Propriano – we recommend:

• Luxury Villas At Residence Terra Thea, you can enjoy a resort with several villas overlooking Propriano. see pictures and availability
• Apartment-hotel At Residence & Hotel Aria Marina, you can enjoy convenient apartments not far from the beach see pictures and availability
• Unique Micalona Genoese Tower where you can stay in one of the historical defense towers, not far from Propriano! see pictures and availability
• Seaside in the south of the city U Liventi offers beautiful cabins, under the trees and near the beach. see pictures and availability

Day 9 – Propriano to Bonifacio, via Sartene

Continue your journey to the south. Our favorite stops are:

• The old center of the city of Sartene, the most Corsican of Corsican cities with its church and its museum of prehistory. It is a nice place to relax and have lunch
• The view on the beach of Roccapina and the lion of rocks – possibility of hiking
• Saint-Jean beach and its beautiful grey rocks
• The beach of La Tonnara with its pink sand and colored rocks

Night in Bonifacio (1/2) – we recommend:

• Above the rest At the Santateresa Hotel, you can enjoy a superb view of the citadel and the cliffs from above! See photos and availability
• Near the marina The Centre Nautique hotel is located on the waterfront and the marina. See photos and availability
• Old town Another option inside the old town is the Hotel Genovese with a cliff top location and lots of charm. See photos and availability
• Luxury For a 5-star stay not far from the marina, check out the spacious and beautiful design of the Version Maquis Citadelle hotel. See photos and availability

Do not make THE SAME MISTAKE WE MADE

On one of our last trips to Europe, a hacker stole our credit card details while we were using a hotel WiFi. So our trip began with a “card blocked” call … Not funny at all! Learn from our mistake, make a small VPN investment to surf without worry .

Day 10 – Bonifacio and Cape Pertusato

Today take the time to discover all the facets of one of the most beautiful cities of Corsica: Bonifacio. The citadel was built on a small peninsula with cliffs over 70m high. Among our favorite activities:

• Admire the views from all the ramparts
• Descend the staircase of the King of Aragon dug in the cliff
• Visit the marine cemetery
• Have a drink (or an ice cream!) at the marina
• Take a boat trip to admire the cliffs and caves from the sea
• See our article on all the things to do in Bonifacio .

And if you are feeling a bit sporty, you can walk to Cape Pertusato to have exceptional views of the city. And for a unique beach, once at the lighthouse, you can go down to the beach of Saint-Antoine, completely different from all the Corsican beaches, with its giant cave. See our article .

Night in Bonifacio (2/2)

Day 11 – Beaches of Santa Giulia, Palombaggia…

Driving time = less than 1 hour.

In South Corsica, you will find several of the most famous beaches of Corsica. They are between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. Let us quote:

• Palombaggia with its red rocks
• Tamaricciu and its postcard bay
• The bay of Rondinara with its perfect shape (often listed as one of the most beautiful bays in Europe)
• The beach of Santa Giulia and its long strip of sand

Night in Porto-Vecchio – we recommend:

• Luxury Grand Hotel de la Cala Rossa & Spa Nucca, right on the beach see pictures and availability
• 4 stars on the sea Hotel-Restaurant Casa Santini x Roc Seven, right on the water see pictures and availability
• Residence with all services At the Residence U Pirellu, we enjoy spacious villas, beautiful views of the maquis and the sea. There is a heated swimming pool and all activities. It is only 10min from Palombaggia and 10min from Porto-Vecchio. see pictures and availability

Day 12 – Bavella, Salenzara, Aleria to Corte

Driving time = 3h

To complete your Corsican experience, after a citadel and beaches, we advise you to take altitude in the mountains. Take the road through the forest of Ospedale and stop at the lake. Continue towards Zonza and the Aiguilles de Bavella. Here you can go for a short hike or continue your journey through the mountains. It is absolutely beautiful and a radical change from the beaches.

Then go back down to the coast, through the gorge of Solenzara. Here, enjoy the views of the river and mountains or find a spot to swim in one of the natural pools.

Continue to the heart of Corsica and the city of Corte. If you like Roman ruins, you can stop in Aleria with its museum and its archaeological site. Otherwise, continue towards the city.

Day 13 – Corte, Restonica Valley

Driving time = 1h or 2h

Explore the city of Corte, the heart of Corsica

• Stroll in Corte
• Climb to the Belvedere and enjoy the view
• Visit the museum of Corsica and learn more about its history
• Drive in the beautiful Restonica valley (but be careful the road is narrow and winding). To know more about it.

Then go back down to Bastia. On the way, you can include a small detour to:

• The archaeological site of Mariana and its museum
• or the fascinating village of Vescovato

In Bastia, we recommend:

• Good value for money Hotel Continental – 3 star hotel in the heart of the city See photos and availability
• Central Hôtel Des Gouverneurs, above the water see pictures and availability
• Hotel de la Corniche, less central but with beautiful views and calm see pictures and availability
• Mister Miot Concept Hotel – Bastia center, with a very pleasant atmosphere see pictures and availability
• Apartment by the sea The Cada del Mare offers splendid views of the sea see pictures and availability

Day 14 – Bastia

After the nature, discover Bastia, the second biggest city of Corsica. One day is enough. We advise you to :

• walk around the citadel,
• stroll in the old port,
• visit the Governor’s Palace and its garden
• discover the many richly decorated churches

14/15 days in Corsica – Alternative activities

You can also replace some half-days with outdoor activities. Corsica is an ideal destination for this.

Activities in the South of Corsica

Here is our selection of activities in the South of Corsica:

• Canyoning initiation in Pulischellu – see pictures, details and availability
• Complete canyoning experience in Pulischellu – see details and availability
• Or sport canyoning in Purcaraccia – see details and availability
• Via Ferrata near Porto_Vecchio – see photos, details and availability
• Sea kayaking near Propriano (west coast) – see pictures, details and availability
• Sea kayaking under the cliffs of Bonifacio – see pictures, details and availability

Activities in the North of Corsica

And here is our selection of activities in the North of Corsica:

• Diving and snorkeling – learn to dive in Calvi and discover the sea bed! – see program and availability
• Quad between sea and mountain – see program and availability
• Canyoning in beautiful valleys, including the Fango valley – see programs and availability
• Via Ferrata to cling to the mountain walls with breathtaking views. There are different courses depending on your level (including juniors) – see programs and availability
• Rafting with 2 levels of intensity depending on your adrenaline search (family or X-tra) – see programs and availability

Alternative hikes

You can also do only part of the program and add hikes (or check out our 7-day and 10-day itineraries and include hike days).

The most famous path is the GR20 which allows you to cross the island. It is considered the most difficult long-distance train in Europe. You can only walk part or all of the trail. We walked the small portion near the Cascade des Anglais and found things well marked.

You can alternate between coastal and mountain trails. We will be working on bringing you articles on hiking.

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica

Inspiration destinations

• Best things to do in Corsica
• Ajaccio or Bastia?
• North or South Corsica?
• Planning a road trip in Corsica
• Itineraries: 3 days – 4 or 5 days – 1 week – 10 days – 2 weeks

• The most beautiful beaches of Corsica
• The most beautiful villages of Corsica
• The most beautiful cities of Corsica
• The most beautiful destinations in Corsica
• The museums of Corsica
• Hidden gems in Corsica
• The most beautiful natural pools
• What to do in North Corsica
• Best things to do in South Corsica
• Canyoning in Corsica

Where to stay

• Where to sleep in Corsica
• The most beautiful hotels in Corsica
• Best luxury hotels in Corsica
• Best seaside hotels

• Which ferry to Corsica
• Renting a car in Corsica
• Driving in Corsica

2 weeks in Corsica in a fixed base – where to go?

If you are not looking for a road trip for your 2 weeks in Corsica, but you are wondering where to go, check out our article on the most beautiful destinations in Corsica . For 2 weeks, we particularly recommend

Calvi and the Balagne

Porto-Vecchio and the South

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My hike on the hardest trail in Europe – Corsica’s GR20

Even an ‘easy’ part of this 125-mile walking trail on the French island presents challenges for mind and body, but the rewards for persistence are infinite

I ’m on the easiest bit of one of the easiest legs of the GR20 – the self-styled hardest trek in Europe – so naturally here I am alone, lost in a cloud, with hands so cold I am seriously considering peeing on them.

In the guidebook, this was billed as a shortish, flattish day, a mere 10.2 miles (16.5km) with 670 metres of ascent. I had it circled as one to enjoy. Perhaps if it were warm, I would have a dip in Lac de Ninu, douse the fires in my calves. But when hail came, adding spikes to a slapping wind, and thunder began beating a drum behind the blank grey horizon, I thought: “Better put more layers on than take off.” I struggle with the zips, but just about find enough digital strength without resorting to anything unsanitary.

The mist on the high plain of Bocca a Reta is total, snuffing any flickers, muffling any sound, shrinking the world to an alien dome. A black salamander shivers in a divot. Bells clang softly from the necks of unknown beasts. I stop, just as shadows muster at the edge of my visible limit, and soon a man floats into range. He hurriedly relays directions, scratching a map in a sandy hollow. Finding the next refuge, Manganu, seems to depend on being able to see the lake. A bedraggled teenager trundles towards us and meets us with a wince. I wish them bon courage and march on.

Soon the mist lifts enough for me to spot a flag of Corsica , suggesting somehow I have made shelter, despite seeing not a drop of a lake. I poke my head inside the shack to see an old man with a cloth cap covering half his face, and a beard covering the rest. He is sipping a morning pastis and staring into a fire that fills the damp air with woodsmoke. I stamp my feet and shake off some rain, but still he doesn’t turn around. This doesn’t feel right. I look into my guidebook and realise this is not Manganu, but just over a mile north at the Vaccaghja Bergerie . This is, in fact, the stone living room of a shepherd called Noel. He’s seen too much for strays to faze him. Every summer, since that beard was adolescent stubble, he’s been practising transhumance, bringing goats up to graze the mountain grass.

When finally I reach Manganu, I open the door to the refuge and feel the warmth of the gas stove. Wet things are dripping and steaming from every hook. All around me are those I have been walking with for the last few days, clutching mugs or slicing saucisson. Miriam and Valentin catch my eye and shuffle along a bench to make room. I had met them on the first night, up on the eyrie of Ortu di u Piobbiu refuge . While I was busy watching the sun slide away from the valley, the fierce wind was busy lifting my tent from its mooring. I noticed, just as the canvas began cartwheeling down the hill, and in a mad dash grabbed it before it neared a precipice. When I returned to my camp spot, Miriam and Valentin were waiting. They had seen the pantomime and, taking pity, taught me how to pitch when pegs don’t get much purchase by using rocks to slip into the loops where the pegs would normally go. Here they are again, offering a smile, a coffee, a biscuit. We look at the shaking windows and can’t help but laugh: this was supposed to be the easy day.

The GR20 is long – a nearly 125-mile wiggle down the spine of Corsica between Calenzana and Conca – but it’s the height that hurts: 12,700 metres up and down mountains that do not provide welcome. It’s less a walk, more a 10 to 15-day challenge of body mobility. During the first half in particular, one must crawl, clamber, slide and slither over rocks of all types: half-melted bowls, huge flat boulders, rods and ingots of grey and pink. Tiny holds are sole protection from endless falls. Everyone calls it the hardest trek in Europe; they have a point.

So, why bother? Beauty is part of it, of course, at least when the weather behaves. These are places accessible only by foot and hand, with all the spectacle and savagery that implies. Jagged peaks cut soft yellow skies. Waterfalls leap from cliffs. Cols tumble into cauldrons of stone so deep and steep-sided they could hide bandits for decades. However, these are known treasures, equalled or bettered elsewhere. So, again, why?

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On the morning of the final day I figure it out. I look up from the rocky plateau of Paliri Refuge to the morning star, hanging above the pines in a virgin sky. The sea, not seen since day two, sleeps under a grey quilt. Soon the sun peeks over the horizon and paints colour across the clouds: purple, peach, a turquoise that belongs in dreams. I take my phone out for a photo, but the scanner doesn’t recognise my worn thumbs. I look to my scarred knee, shivering in the cold, and my grimy fingernails, and then to those all around. Everyone is dirty and hobbling as they gather tents for the final descent. When we catch each other’s eye, we smile. It’s been hard, and we’re tired, but, it’s clear now, the difficulty was the point – because now we know we can do hard things.

That even when waking up in a hill station with freezing wind whipping the tent, back aching from a night on rock, tendons stiff from yesterday, stomach in pieces from a sketchy stew, with rain coming to slick the rocks, and scree subtracting a fifth from every step – that eight hours walking up and down a mountain is possible. That every day’s challenges are soluble. All those mornings when the task seemed too much, we packed up, put our feet on the floor, completed one step, then another, and somehow made the summit. It made the difficulties of normal life seem manageable.

The essence of story is journey and return. A protagonist enters the woods and, in overcoming a trial, gains some wisdom to bring home. Stories are told to excite and entertain, but also to explore sides of human nature that normal life rarely reveals. Hard holidays work the same way. One leaves home, with its trinkets that comfort and coddle and, in devoting every energy to a challenge, none is left to ponder regrets, or sustain petty grievances. In their place, vital truths surface. That one can utter the phrase, “Oh, thank God, they have toilet paper,” and absolutely mean it. That the most banal bromide can hold the most beautiful truth. That happiness is not about new stuff, better clothes, a bigger house; nature and connection are worth far more. That we’re strong and we can do impossible things. Like walking up mountains. Or just being happy. And we pack all that knowledge in our bags and take it down the mountain.

• Corsica holidays
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Road trip in Corsica: I migliori itinerari per 3, 5, 7, 10 e 15 giorni

I 5 migliori itinerari in road trip per visitare la corsica in auto.

State pensando di fare un giro della Corsica in auto?

Ottima idea!

Visitare la Corsica in auto è l’unico modo per raggiungere le migliori spiagge e scoprire tutte le più imperdibili attrazioni dell’isola.

Diversamente da quanto accade per altri paesi nei quali è possibile utilizzare con facilità i mezzi pubblici, qui in Corsica è davvero impossibile fare ciò. Un viaggio on the road è quindi l’unica soluzione per scoprire la Corsica!

Per aiutarvi a pianificare il vostro soggiorno , ho preparato per voi questa guida di viaggio con i 5 migliori itinerari in road trip della Corsica a seconda della durata del vostro soggiorno (2,3,4 5, 7, 10 e 15 giorni).

Per ciascuna di queste durate, vi fornirò un riepilogo dell’itinerario e il link per leggere l’articolo dettagliato sull’itinerario in questione.

E alla fine di questa guida, troverete anche la mia lista dei migliori alloggi dove dormire in Corsica a seconda del vostro budget, nonché i miei migliori consigli per godervi il ​​viaggio perfetto.

Pianifichiamo subito il nostro viaggio!

Qual è l’aeroporto migliore per iniziare un tour della Corsica in auto?

Qual è il miglior porto per iniziare un giro della corsica in auto, noleggiare un’auto per un viaggio in corsica, tour della corsica in auto: 2, 3, 4 o 5 giorni, road trip di una settimana nel sud della corsica, tour della corsica settentrionale di 7 giorni in auto, 1) ajaccio (1 giorno).

• 2) Bonifacio (3 giorni)

3) Porto Vecchio (1 giorno)

4) ospedale / passo della bavella (1 giorno), 5) corte (1 giorno).

• 6) Corte / Porto (1 giorno)

7) Riserva naturale di Scandola / Calanchi di Piana (1 giorno)

1) corsica settentrionale (6 giorni), 2) corsica meridionale (7 giorni), 3) montagne della corsica (2 giorni), dove dormire in corsica durante il vostro road trip, qual è il periodo migliore per fare tour della corsica in auto.

Se desiderate fare un giro della Corsica in macchina, potrete arrivarci in aereo. Ci sono 4 aeroporti sull’isola:

• Bastia , a nord-est
• Ajaccio , a sud-ovest
• Figari, a sud dell’isola, tra Bonifacio e Porto Vecchio
• Calvi , a ovest

La maggior parte dei miei itinerari della Corsica hanno inizio da Bastia e da Ajaccio. Muoversi in auto in Corsica è più facile se atterrerete in una di queste 2 città.

Potrete anche prendere il traghetto per andare in Corsica . È l’unico modo per arrivarci direttamente con la vostra macchina!

Ci sono molte navi che partono da Nizza , Marsiglia, Tolone, Italia e Sardegna.

I porti principali della Corsica sono:

• Porto Vecchio
• Île-Rousse (vicino a Calvi)
• Bonifacio (solo se arrivate dalla Sardegna)

Per quanto riguarda gli aeroporti, dovreste arrivare a Bastia o ad Ajaccio , poiché queste 2 città hanno maggiori collegamenti in traghetto con la terraferma.

Ovviamente, avrete bisogno di un’auto per il vostro viaggio in Corsica in macchina, poiché ci sono pochissimi trasporti pubblici sull’isola.

Se avete intenzione di arrivare in Corsica in traghetto direttamente con il vostro mezzo, potete direttamente saltare al paragrafo successivo di questo articolo.

Altrimenti, sia che arriviate in ​​aereo che in nave, troverete molte compagnie di autonoleggio sull’isola. Ma dovreste prenotare la vostra auto in anticipo online per ottenere i prezzi migliori!

Come saprete, se avete già letto qualche altro mio articolo, prenoto sempre le mie auto su Rentalcars.com, sia vada in Grecia , in Sardegna o addirittura in Thailandia !

Su questo sito potrete facilmente confrontare i prezzi tra tutte le società di noleggio in Corsica. Scoprirete le agenzie più economiche e quelle con le migliori recensioni dei clienti.

Rentalcars offre anche una “ Assicurazione di Protezione Completa “, che vi rimborserà completamente in caso di incidente o furto. È senza dubbio l’opzione migliore se non avete un’assicurazione con la vostra carta di credito. Testata e approvata, mi hanno già rimborsato più di 1300 € 😎!

E se trovate un autonoleggio più economico altrove, vi rimborseranno la differenza.

Ultimo ma non meno importante, potrete modificare o cancellare la vostra prenotazione gratuitamente, fino a 24 ore prima della partenza. Ecco perché dovreste prenotare la vostra auto il prima possibile!

Fate clic sul pulsante in basso per confrontare i prezzi della auto a noleggio in Corsica:

Se state andando in Corsica per un breve soggiorno, dovreste rimanere nella stessa città e scoprire i suoi dintorni durante le gite di una giornata.

Per un breve viaggio on the road in Corsica, il vostro porto o aeroporto di arrivo definirà i luoghi che potrete visitare.

Ho quindi preparato degli itinerari per sfruttare al meglio il vostro giro della Corsica in macchina di 2 a 5 giorni, a seconda della vostra città di arrivo (Bastia, Ajaccio, Bonifacio, Porto Vecchio, Calvi)

Per ogni città, scoprirete sia i migliori luoghi da visitare ogni giorno che la mia selezione delle migliori sistemazioni dove dormire in Corsica a seconda del vostro budget.

Troverete tutto ciò di cui averte bisogno nel mio articolo: I migliori itinerari per un breve soggiorno in Corsica.

Ecco l’itinerario migliore se state facendo un viaggio di una settimana da Ajaccio, per visitare la Corsica del Sud in macchina.

Durante il vostro tour, scoprirete:

• Ajaccio (1 giorno)
• Bonifacio (3 giorni)
• Porto Vecchio (1 giorno)
• Il Passo della Bavella (1 giorno)

1° giorno – Girate per la città più grande della Corsica e visitate:

• Il Museo Fesch
• La Cappella Imperiale
• Piazza Foch e il mercato di Ajaccio
• Il Museo Nazionale della Residenza Bonaparte
• La Cattedrale di Ajaccio
• Place d’Austerlitz
• Le Isole Sanguinarie

Ho preparato un itinerario per visitare Ajaccio in 1 giorno nel mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Ajaccio.

2° giorno – Guidate tra Ajaccio e Bonifacio lungo la strada costiera per scoprire:

• La Spiaggia di Agosta
• La Spiaggia di Ruppione
• La Spiaggia di Mare e Sole
• La Spiaggia di Propriano
• La Spiaggia di San Giovianni
• La Spiaggia di Paragan
• La Spiaggia di Fazzio
• La Spiaggia di Tunara
• La Spiaggia di Stagnolu

3° giorno di questo giro di una settimana della Corsica in macchina – Visitate Bonifacio e i suoi dintorni:

• La Cittadella
• La Fortezza dello Stendardo
• La Scala del Re d’Aragona
• Il cimitero marino
• Il Gouvernail (Il timone)
• Il sentiero di Campu Romanilu
• Cap de Pertusatu e il suo faro
• La spiaggia di Saint-Antoine

Per il 4° giorno, prendete la navetta per le Isole di Lavezzi . È una delle cose migliori da fare durante il vostro viaggio on the road di 1 settimana nel sud della Corsica!

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni sulle più imperdibili attrazioni di Bonifacio nel mio articolo: Le 20 cose da vedere a Bonifacio.

E se desiderate visitare le Isole di Lavezzi, date un’occhiata alla mia guida dettagliata: Come visitare le Isole di Lavezzi?

Il 5° giorno, trascorrerete una giornata rilassante nuotando e prendendo il sole in spiaggia, vicino a Porto Vecchio. La regione è rinomata per le sue magnifiche spiagge, spesso classificate tra le più belle della Corsica! Potrete scegliere tra:

• La Spiaggia di Rondinara
• La Spiaggia di Santa Giulia
• La Spiaggia di Palombaggia
• La Spiaggia di Tamaricciu

Volete saperne di più sui migliori posti da visitare a Porto Vecchio e dintorni? Date un’occhiata al mio articolo: Visitare Porto Vecchio: la guida definitiva.

6° giorno – Escursione sulle montagne della Corsica. Se non avete voglia di fare quelle 2 escursioni in un giorno, scegliete quella più adatta a voi!

• L’escursione della Piscia di Gallu nella foresta dell’Ospedale, per raggiungere la cascata più alta della Corsica
• L’escursione Trou de la Bombe, con partenza dal Passo della Bavella.

7° giorno – Il vostro viaggio di una settimana in Corsica è già terminato! Tornate ad Ajaccio per il volo o il traghetto di ritorno.

Se desiderate fare un viaggio nella Corsica del Sud di una settimana, dovreste leggere il mio articolo dettagliato: Il miglior itinerario per visitare la Corsica del Sud in una settimana.

Scoprirete un elenco dei migliori posti da visitare e la mia selezione dei migliori hotel dove dormire ad Ajaccio, Bonifacio e Porto Vecchio. È il modo migliore per pianificare il vostro viaggio in Corsica!

Se avete in mente di visitare la Corsica Settentrionale in 7 giorni, dovreste leggere il mio articolo: Il miglior itinerario della Corsica Settentrionale di 7 giorni.

Arriverete a Bastia e scoprirete tutti i migliori posti da visitare nel nord dell’isola: Capo Corso , Saint-Florent , il deserto delle Agriate , Calvi, Porto, i Calanchi di Piana e Corte .

Ecco un breve riassunto di questo viaggio per aiutarvi a pianificare i vostri 7 giorni di vacanze in Corsica:

• 2 giorni a Capo Corso, a nord di Bastia. Il primo giorno, percorrerete il sentiero dei doganieri da Macinaggio a Barcaggio. Il giorno successivo, guiderete lungo la costa occidentale di Capo Corso per raggiungere Saint-Florent.
• 1 giorno nel deserto delle Agriate per godervi le spiagge di sabbia bianca di Saleccia e Lotu.
• 1 giorno a Calvi: visitate la città al mattino e trascorrete il pomeriggio sulla spiaggia di Calvi o sulla penisola della Revellata.
• 1 giorno a Porto, per fare una gita in barca. È senza dubbio una delle cose migliori da fare durante il vostro viaggio di 7 giorni in Corsica! Scoprirete la Riserva Naturale di Scandola e i Calanchi di Piana .
• 1 giorno sulle montagne della Corsica, vicino Corte. Qui, potrete fare il bagno o fare escursioni nella foresta di Aitone, nel Lago Nino, nel fiume Golo o nelle cascate di Radule. Durante il vostro viaggio, guiderete anche attraverso la scenografica Scala di Santa Regina. Terminate la giornata con una breve passeggiata nella città di Corte.

Per maggiori dettagli e per una guida ai migliori posti in cui dormire durante questo viaggio di 7-8 giorni in Corsica, date un’occhiata al mio itinerario dettagliato (cliccate qui)!

Oltre a questo itinerario dettagliato, potrete leggere i miei articoli su ogni città che scoprirete durante le vostre vacanze nella Corsica Settentrionale:

• Saint-Florent
• Il Deserto delle Agriate
• Riserva Naturale di Scandola

Tour della Corsica di 10 giorni in auto

Se desiderate visitare la Corsica in 10 giorni in macchina, ecco il miglior itinerario per scoprire sia il sud dell’isola che le montagne e le foreste.

Questo road trip di 10 giorni parte da Ajaccio, la città più grande della Corsica. Durante il vostro tour rimarrete estasiati dalle spiagge sublimi dell’isola, dalle bellissime escursioni e dai paesaggi naturali mozzafiato!

Durante questo road trip di 10 giorni in Corsica, visiterete:

• Il Passo della Bavella
• La Riserva Naturale di Scandola
• I Calanchi di Piana

Qui sotto, troverete un breve riassunto di questo itinerario, ma dovreste anche dare un’occhiata al mio articolo per maggiori dettagli: Il miglior itinerario di 10 giorni in Corsica.

Cominciamo questo tour di 10 giorni in Corsica in macchina da Ajaccio. Essendo una città piuttosto piccola, non avrete bisogno di più di un giorno per scoprire i suoi migliori luoghi di interesse!

1° giorno – I migliori posti da visitare ad Ajaccio sono:

• Il quartiere degli stranieri

Trascorrete la notte ad Ajaccio.

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni sulle più imperdibili attrazioni di Ajaccio nel mio articolo: Le 20 cose da vedere ad Ajaccio.

2) Bonifacio (3 giorni )

Per il 2° giorno , continuate il vostro viaggio di 10 giorni in Corsica in macchina guidando verso sud, per raggiungere Bonifacio.

Trascorrerete un’intera giornata sulla bellissima strada costiera che collega Ajaccio e Bonifacio. Durante il vostro viaggio, scoprirete graziosi villaggi e splendide spiagge, perfette per un tuffo rinfrescante! I posti migliori da vedere sono:

• La Spiaggia di San Giovianni Spiaggia

Trascorrete una prima notte a Bonifacio.

Per il 3° giorno , visiterete la città di Bonifacio . Fate una passeggiata nella Cittadella, e dopo un’escursione sul sentiero di Campu Rumanilu. È il posto migliore per godere di viste mozzafiato sulla cittadella, arroccata sul bordo delle bianche scogliere calcaree a più di 70 metri di altezza!

Passate un’altra notte a Bonifacio.

4° giorno – Prendete la navetta per visitare le Isole di Lavezzi, rinomate soprattutto per le loro bellissime spiagge e calette con acque turchesi. È uno dei migliori luoghi in cui nuotare durante il vostro itinerario della Corsica di 10 giorni!

Se desiderate maggiori dettagli sulle Isole di Lavezzi, dovreste leggere il mio articolo: Come visitare le Isole di Lavezzi?

Trascorrete un’ultima notte a Bonifacio.

Desiderate maggiori informazioni sui migliori posti da visitare a Bonifacio? Date un’occhiata al mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Bonifacio.

Il 5° giorno scoprirete le magnifiche spiagge nei dintorni di Porto Vecchio:

• La Spiaggia di Tamariccui

Tutte queste spiagge paradisiache sono caratterizzate da sabbia bianca e acque turchesi!

Trascorrete la notte a Porto Vecchio.

Potrete trovare maggiori dettagli sui migliori posti da visitare a Porto Vecchio nel mio articolo: Visitare Porto Vecchio: la guida definitiva.

Per il 6° giorno del vostro viaggio in Corsica on the road, è arrivato il momento di fare qualche escursione sulle montagne della Corsica!

Guidate verso nord da Porto Vecchio, verso la foresta dell’Ospedale. Qui, potrete fare un’escursione alla Piscia di Gallu, la cascata più grande della Corsica.

Potrete anche visitare il Trou de la Bombe (“Buco della bomba”), una famosa escursione che parte dal passo Bavella.

Il 7° giorno rimarrete sulle montagne della Corsica e potrete scegliere tra diverse escursioni.

Ad esempio, potrete fare un’escursione alle Cascade des Anglais (cascate inglesi), situate nella foresta di Vizzavona. Qui scoprirete diverse piccole cascate e bellissime piscine naturali in cui fare un tuffo!

L’ escursione più popolare nei pressi di Corte è la gola della Restonica. Seguite il sentiero segnalato per raggiungere i laghi di Melo e Capitello, a quasi 2.000 metri di altitudine!

Dopo la vostra escursione, avrete un po’ di tempo per scoprire Corte.

Durante la vostra passeggiata, dovreste visitare la Cittadella , il Musée de la Corse, il Belvedere, Piazza Gaffory e il Cours Paoli.

Trascorrete la notte a Corte.

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni sulle più imperdibili attrazioni di Corte e sulle escursioni più belle nel mio articolo: Le 20 cose da vedere a Corte.

6) Corte / Porto (1 giorno )

8° giorno – Partirete da Corte e attraverserete la splendida Scala di Santa Regina , uno dei paesaggi più suggestivi dell’isola!

Sulla strada tra Corte e Porto, avrete tutto il tempo per fermarvi per fare una nuotata rinfrescante o per fare una bella escursione. Potrete scegliere tra:

• Il Lago di Calacuccia
• Un tuffo rinfrescante nel fiume Golo , vicino al villaggio di Albertacce
• Una breve escursione alla scoperta delle cascate di Radule
• Un’escursione un po’ più lunga al Lago Nino , il secondo lago più grande della Corsica!
• Un pomeriggio di relax nella foresta di Aitone, dove potrete fare il bagno in alcune grandi piscine naturali.
• Una breve escursione per fare il bagno al ponte genovese di Zaglia, nella gola della Spelunca.

Trascorrete la notte a Porto.

Per il 9° giorno del vostro viaggio di 10 giorni in Corsica in auto, farete una gita in barca alla scoperta della Riserva naturale di Scandola e ai Calanchi di Piana.

Questi 2 splendidi siti naturali sono elencati come siti patrimonio mondiale dell’UNESCO. Poiché Scandola è inaccessibile a piedi o in auto, questa crociera è l’unico modo per arrivarci!

Queste gite in barca sono l’attrazione più imperdibile delle vostre vacanze a Porto e devono essere prenotate il prima possibile.

Potrete trovare maggiori dettagli su cosa vedere a Scandola nel mio articolo dedicato: Come visitare la Riserva Naturale di Scandola?

Dopo la crociera, tornate alla vostra macchina e guidate verso Ajaccio.

Ci sono diverse belle spiagge dove potrete fermarmi per un ultimo bagno:

• La spiaggia di Arone
• La spiaggia di Chiumi
• La spiaggia di Peru
• Le spiagge di Menazina e Capizollu
• La spiaggia di Liamone

Per il 10° e ultimo giorno delle vostre vacanze in Corsica di 10 giorni, non vi resta che tornare ad Ajaccio per prendere l’aereo o il traghetto per tornare a casa.

Se desiderate maggiori dettagli su questo road trip in Corsica di 10 giorni , date un’occhiata al mio articolo dettagliato: Il miglior itinerario per visitare la Corsica in 10 giorni.

Troverete anche una selezione dei migliori posti dove dormire per ogni città. Sarà semplicissimo pianificare il vostro viaggio di 9-10 giorni in Corsica!

2 settimane in Corsica in auto

State pianificando un viaggio di 15 giorni in Corsica? Siete fortunati, perché avrete abbastanza tempo per scoprire l’intera isola!

Questo viaggio su strada di 2 settimane in Corsica parte da Bastia , a nord dell’isola.

Troverete tutte le informazioni necessarie per organizzare il vostro viaggio in Corsica nel mio articolo: Il miglior itinerario della Corsica di 2 settimane.

Ecco un breve riassunto di questo itinerario:

Per la prima tappa di questo viaggio di 2 settimane in Corsica, trascorrerete 6 giorni nel nord dell’isola.

1° giorno – Passeggiate per Bastia a piedi per scoprire: Piazza San Nicola, Via Napoleone, la chiesa di San Giovanni Battista e la Cittadella.

Avrete abbastanza tempo per godervi le più imperdibili attrazioni di Bastia che ho descritto in dettaglio nel mio articolo: Le 17 cose da vedere a Bastia.

2° e 3° giorno – Capo Corso

Percorrete il sentiero dei doganieri e godetevi le bellissime calette e i villaggi tipici. È uno dei posti migliori da visitare durante le vostre vacanze in Corsica!

Se state cercando maggiori dettagli su cosa vedere a Capo Corso, date un’occhiata al mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Capo Corso.

Per il quarto giorno del vostro viaggio on the road di 15 giorni in Corsica, visiterete il deserto delle Agriate. Prendete il battello navetta dal villaggio di Saint-Florent per scoprire le splendide spiagge di Saleccia e Lotu. Trascorrerete una giornata di relax, prendendo il sole e nuotando in acque cristalline!

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni nei miei articoli dettagliati: Le 12 cose da vedere a Saint-Florent e Come visitare il deserto delle Agriate ?

5° giorno – Fate una breve passeggiata a Calvi al mattino e trascorrete il pomeriggio in spiaggia, a Calvi o nella penisola della Revellata. Se preferite fare escursionismo, dovreste andare nella foresta di Bonifatu, a 30 minuti di auto da Calvi.

Troverete tutto spiegato nella mia guida su Calvi.

6° giorno – Guidate da Calvi a Porto, poi fate una gita in barca di 4 ore per scoprire la Riserva Naturale di Scandola , Girolata e i Calanchi di Piana.

Fate clic sul pulsante qui sotto per prenotare la vostra crociera:

È senza dubbio una delle cose migliori da fare durante il vostro tour della Corsica di 15 giorni in auto!

Continuiamo questo tour della Corsica di 15 giorni in auto, nel sud dell’isola.

7° giorno – Guidate da Porto ad Ajaccio lungo la strada costiera . Potrete fare escursioni ai Calanchi di Piana o fermarvi sulle spiagge del Peru, Menazina o Liamone per una nuotata rinfrescante!

8° giorno – Visitate il centro storico di Ajaccio al mattino, quindi fate una crociera alle isole Sanguinarie .

Fate clic sul pulsante in basso per prenotare la vostra gita in barca:

E se state cercando una crociera romantica alle Isole Sanguinarie al tramonto, eccola qui:

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni sulle più imperdibili attrazioni di Ajaccio nel mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Ajaccio.

Il 9° giorno andrete da Ajaccio a Bonifacio. Ci sono molti bellissimi posti da scoprire durante il vostro viaggio, come i villaggi tipici e le spiagge sublimi!

10° giorno – Visitate una della città più iconiche della Corsica: Bonifacio.

Girate per la città alta a piedi per scoprite la Fortezza dello Stendardo e la scalinata del Re d’Aragona (tra molti altri fantastici luoghi da visitare). Quindi, percorrete il sentiero di Campu Rumanilu per scoprire viste mozzafiato sulle scogliere di Bonifacio.

Desiderate maggiori dettagli sui migliori posti da visitare a Bonifacio? Date un’occhiata al mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Bonifacio.

11° giorno – Farete una crociera alle Isole di Lavezzi , a soli 30 minuti di barca dal porto di Bonifacio.

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni nel mio articolo: Come visitare le Isole di Lavezzi?

12° giorno – Prendetevi del tempo per rilassarvi sulla spiaggia vicino a Porto Vecchio.

Potrete scegliere tra Palombaggia, Tamaricciu, Rondinara e Santa Giulia. Tutte queste spiagge sono classificate tra le più belle della Corsica!

Se state cercando maggiori dettagli su Porto Vecchio e le sue spiagge, dovreste leggere il mio articolo: Le 15 cose da vedere a Porto Vecchio.

Per il 13° giorno di questo tour della Corsica in auto di due settimane, scoprirete le bellissime montagne dell’isola.

Da Porto Vecchio , dirigetevi a nord verso Zonza e l’Ospedale . Qui potrete fare un’escursione alla Piscia di Gallu. Potrete anche optare per l’escursione al Trou de la Bombe (“Buco della bomba”) che parte dal Passo della Bavella. Se siete escursionisti esperti, potrete fare entrambe le cose in 1 solo giorno!

14° giorno – Durante questa giornata, potrete anche scegliere tra 2 bellissime escursioni: la Cascade des Anglais (cascata inglese), nella foresta di Vizzavona, e la Gola della Restonica, vicino a Corte.

Quindi, tornate alla vostra auto e guidate fino a Corte, dove trascorrerete la notte.

Potrete trovare maggiori informazioni su cosa vedere a Corte nel mio articolo: La guida definitiva per visitare Corte.

Quindicesimo e ultimo giorno di questo giro di 2 settimane della Corsica in macchina: tornate a Bastia per concludere le vostre vacanze!

Come ho detto prima, potrete trovare una versione dettagliata di questo viaggio di 2 settimane in Corsica nel mio articolo: Il miglior itinerario per visitare la Corsica in 15 giorni.

Scoprirete tutti i migliori posti da visitare e una selezione dei migliori alloggi dove dormire in Corsica per ogni città, a seconda del vostro budget.

Adesso che avete scoperto i migliori posti da visitare durante il vostro viaggio in Corsica, probabilmente vorrete anche sapere dove dormire per ogni fase del vostro viaggio.

Troverete qui un elenco di tutti i migliori posti dove dormire in Corsica, a seconda del vostro budget, per ogni città che visiterete durante il vostro tour.

Date un’occhiata ai miei itinerari dettagliati per scoprire tutti i posti migliori in cui soggiornare in Corsica!

Potrete anche cliccare direttamente qui per trovare i migliori hotel dell’isola:

• Ajaccio: dove dormire nella città più grande della Corsica?
• Bastia: i 5 migliori hotel
• Bonifacio: dove dormire in città?
• Calvi: i 5 migliori alloggi
• Capo Corso: i migliori hotel a Macinaggio
• Corte: i migliori alloggi in città
• Porto-Ota: dove dormire per visitare Scandola e Piana?
• Porto Vecchio: i 5 migliori hotel
• Saint-Florent: i 3 posti migliori in cui soggiornare

I mesi migliori per road trip in Corsica sono maggio – giugno – luglio – agosto – settembre.

Durante questi mesi, potrete godervi tutte le attrazioni più imperdibili dell’isola: spiagge, splendidi paesaggi naturali, escursioni, gite in barca e brevi passeggiate nelle città e nei villaggi.

Dovreste anche sapere che il mare è ancora un po’ freddo a maggio e ad inizio giugno, e che luglio e agosto sono i mesi più turistici.

Le spiagge e le strade sono spesso molto affollate durante questi 2 mesi! È inoltre necessario prenotare in anticipo tutte le attività e le gite in barca in questo periodo dell’anno.

Secondo me Settembre è il mese migliore per visitare la Corsica in macchina. Godrete di un bel tempo, il mare sarà ancora caldo e troverete meno folla che in estate.

È anche bello intraprendere un road trip in Corsica ad ottobre , anche se il mare potrebbe essere un po’ più freddo.

Non dovreste andare in vacanza in Corsica durante l’inverno, perché non c’è molto da fare. Non potrete rilassarvi in spiaggia e le escursioni potrebbero essere pericolose, soprattutto quando nevica. In Corsica inoltre, gli inverni sono anche piuttosto ventosi.

E voi cosa avete voglia di visitare durante il vostro tour della Corsica in auto

State per visitare la Corsica? Questi articoli possono aiutarvi!

Esplora tutti i miei articoli sulla Corsica : Tutti gli articoli che possono aiutarvi durante il vostro viaggio in Corsica si trovano qui.

• Cosa vedere in Corsica? Le 30 migliori posti da visitare
• Itinerario: 2, 3, 4 o 5 giorni in Corsica – L’itinerario perfetto per un breve soggiorno in Corsica
• Itinerario: 1 settimana in Corsica – Il miglior itinerario per visitare la Corsica del Sud
• Itinerario: 6, 7 o 8 giorni in Corsica – La guida definitiva per visitare la Corsica del Nord in 1 settimana
• Itinerario: 10 giorni in Corsica – Il miglior itinerario di 10 giorni in Corsica
• Itinerario: 2 settimane in Corsica – Come visitare la Corsica in 14, 15 o 16 giorni.
• Ajaccio: le migliori 20 cose da fare e vedere
• Bastia: 17 posti da non perdere
• Bonifacio: le migliori 20 cose da fare
• Cap Corse: le migliori 15 cose da vedere
• Corte: le migliori 20 cose da vedere
• Porto (Corsica): le migliori 12 cose da fare
• Porto-Vecchio: 17 posti da non perdere
• Saint-Florent: le migliori 12 cose da fare e vedere
• Deserto delle Agriates – La guida definitiva
• Calanchi di Piana – Come visitare le Calanchi di Piana in barca, in auto e a piedi
• Isole di Lavezzi – Organizza il tuo viaggio sull’isola Lavezzi facilmente!
• Riserva Naturale di Scandola – Tutti i miei migliori consigli per visitare Scandola
• Le 23 più belle spiagge della Corsica

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Creatore del blog Voyage Tips, amante dei viaggi e della fotografia.

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