Corsica in a week: Ultimate guide to exploring the Isle of Beauty

La Corse en une semaine : Guide ultime pour explorer l'Île de Beauté

Discover Corsica, jewel of the Mediterranean, in just one week. This picturesque island, known for its unique natural and cultural heritage, offers an abundance of adventures for those who come to explore it. With a well-planned itinerary, a week in Corsica can be an unforgettable experience.

Day 1 and 2: Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica

Your trip to Corsica begins in Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Discover its historic center, its market with local products and its lively port. A visit to Maison Bonaparte is a must for any history buff. Do not miss Capo di Feno beach to relax and enjoy the stunning sea views.

Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is an essential stopover during your stay on the Island of Beauty. Offering a relaxing Mediterranean atmosphere, it is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Corsican culture. The Fesch Museum, located in the center of town, houses one of the largest collections of Italian art in France. Discover the charm of the old town, with its narrow streets and colorful houses. Stroll through the local market to sample Corsican delicacies, such as sheep’s cheese and local wine. Ajaccio Cathedral is a must-see monument, as is Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s birthplace. To end the day, have a drink on the marina while enjoying the sunset. Ajaccio is undoubtedly the ideal place to start your journey through Corsica.

Day 3: The Calanques of Piana

Head north along the west coast of Corsica and prepare to be dazzled by the Calanques de Piana. These spectacular rock formations offer breathtaking views. A boat ride offers a unique perspective on these natural wonders.

Among the natural jewels of Corsica, the creeks of Piana occupy a place of choice. A boat ride will give you an impressive perspective on these pink granite cliffs which plunge steeply into the deep blue sea. You will navigate through a natural labyrinth of rocks sculpted by erosion. Each rock formation has its own personality, impressive figures that have inspired many local legends. Some boat trips also offer the chance to dive into the crystal clear waters for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. A visit to the creeks of Piana by boat is a must for your week in Corsica, offering a grandiose and memorable natural spectacle.

Day 4: Corte, the historic heart of Corsica

Discover Corte, the Paoline city in the heart of Corsica. Its Museum of Corsica and its medieval citadel make it a place of historical immersion. Hikers can explore the Restonica Valley, a true natural setting, where waterfalls and natural pools await the most adventurous.

Nestled in the heart of the Corsican mountains, the town of Corte is a real gem. Former capital of the island under Pasquale Paoli, Corte is a place steeped in history and symbolism for the Corsicans. Take the narrow cobbled streets to reach the majestic Citadel, perched on a rocky peak. From there, the panorama over the surrounding valleys is simply breathtaking.

Be sure to visit the Museum of Corsica, located in the Citadel, for a dive into the history and culture of the island. In the surroundings, the valleys of Restonica and Tavignano will offer you great opportunities for hiking in landscapes of wild beauty. Finally, for a refreshing break, the natural pools of Restonica are a must.

Day 5 and 6: Bastia and Cap Corse

Bastia, the city that combines tradition and modernity, is the next stop. Visit its old port, its churches and its lively market. Then, explore Cap Corse, this wild peninsula in the north of the island, where picturesque villages like Centuri or Nonza await you.

The town of Bastia, gateway to Cap Corse, is a mosaic of picturesque alleys, lively squares and charming old ports. Discover the majesty of the Citadel, dominating the city with its imposing silhouette. Do not miss to visit the Old Port, an emblematic place with colorful facades, and lose yourself in the maze of the old town Terra Vecchia, a true concentrate of the Corsican soul.

Further north, Cap Corse offers breathtaking panoramas. With its picturesque villages perched on the ridges and its wild beaches lined with maquis, this “finger” of Corsica is a paradise for lovers of nature and authenticity. The panoramic route will take you to discover remarkable sites such as the port of Centuri, the Giraglia lighthouse or the convent of Saint Francis in Oletta. A visit to Bastia and Cap Corse is essential for a week of rich and varied discoveries in Corsica.

Day 7: Bonifacio, the pearl of southern Corsica

End your week in Corsica in Bonifacio. Its port, its vertiginous cliffs and its historic citadel make it one of the most beautiful places in Corsica. Set sail for the Lavezzi Islands for a day of scuba diving or lazing on dream beaches.

Bonifacio, this medieval city perched on white limestone cliffs, is a real spectacle for the eyes. With its rich history and unique landscape, Bonifacio is a must on your trip to Corsica. Strolling through the narrow streets of the upper town, you will be seduced by the historic atmosphere and the charming old houses.

Do not forget to visit the famous Staircase of the King of Aragon, which will lead you, through 187 steps carved into the cliff, to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Bouches de Bonifacio and Sardinia in the distance. For a unique experience, embark on a boat trip to explore the sea caves and cliffs that Bonifacio is famous for.

A week in Corsica is an opportunity to discover an island with a thousand facets, where wild beauty blends with centuries of history. So, what are you waiting for to fly to the island of beauty ?