Porto-Vecchio, nicknamed the “City of Salt“, is a popular destination in southern Corsica. With its heavenly beaches, historic center and breathtaking scenery, the town attracts thousands of visitors every year.

To get there, several transportation options are available. Each mode of travel offers its own advantages, and is adapted to the specific needs of travelers. This article will help you better understand the different alternatives, so you can plan your trip in the best possible conditions.

Getting to Porto-Vecchio by plane

Air travel is one of the fastest ways to reach Porto-Vecchio, especially if you’re coming from the mainland. Corsica has several airports, making it easy to reach different parts of the island.

Nearest airports

Despite the fact that Porto-Vecchio has no airport on its territory, two important infrastructures are nearby:

1. Figari-Sud-Corse airport: Located just 30 minutes from Porto-Vecchio, this is the nearest airport. This airport offers direct flights from several French and European cities, especially in high season.
2. Ajaccio Napoléon Bonaparte airport: This is about 2? hours’ drive from Porto-Vecchio. Although a little further away, it is also an option for those visiting other regions before reaching the south of the island.

Think carefully about which airport to choose so that you select the one that best suits your needs, such as car rental or shuttle services to major tourist destinations.

Practical tips for flights

For a stress-free journey, remember to :

• book your tickets in advance, especially in high season;
• check transportation options from the airport to your accommodation, such as cabs or buses.

Air travel is a fast and convenient solution, particularly suited to those who want to optimize their travel time.

Discover Porto-Vecchio by ferry

For lovers of sea travel or those with a car, the ferry is an ideal alternative. Corsica is well connected to the mainland thanks to regular connections from several ports.

Arrival ports in Corsica

Ferries do not serve Porto-Vecchio directly, but nearby ports provide easy access:

1. Port of Bastia: Located in the northeast, this is one of Corsica’s busiest ports. Although far from Porto-Vecchio (approx. 3 hours’ drive), it offers a wide range of departures and arrivals.
2. Port de Propriano: Closer geographically, this port is about 1h40 by car from Porto-Vecchio and offers more intimate crossings.

Shipping companies

The main companies operating ferry services to Corsica include Corsica Ferries and La Méridionale. These companies offer several daily crossings from ports in the south of France (Marseille, Toulon) or Italy (Livorno).

Travelling by ferry is often recommended for those who wish to explore the island at their own pace with their own vehicle, or who enjoy crossings in peaceful surroundings.

Driving to Porto-Vecchio

If you want to enjoy the flexibility of a personal vehicle, a car can be an ideal option. You can either bring your own car by ferry or rent one on arrival.

Main roads to Porto-Vecchio

Once in Corsica, the road network is easy to access, although you should be aware that some roads are mountainous and require a little caution. To reach Porto-Vecchio :

• From Figari, take the T10 road, which is particularly direct and fast;
• From Ajaccio, take the T40 via Sartène through some superb scenery.

These well-maintained roads offer an excellent opportunity to admire the different facets of the island, from its majestic mountains to its dream beaches.

Car rental in Corsica

If you don’t have a car, renting one is a flexible and affordable solution. Several agencies are available in Corsica’s airports, ports and major towns. Before booking, check :

• Rental conditions, including insurance and deductibles;
• if the vehicle is equipped for the island’s sometimes winding roads.

Travelling by car is a popular option for those wishing to explore the area around Porto-Vecchio, such as Bonifacio or the beaches of Palombaggia.

Other means of transport

In addition to air, ferry and car, Porto-Vecchio can also be reached by other means of transport.

Buses

Regional buses are an economical and practical way of getting around the island. Companies like Corsica Bus offer regular connections between several towns, including Figari, Ajaccio and Porto-Vecchio. However, please note that :

• frequencies may be limited in low season;
• stops do not always cover the most remote locations.

Buses are more suitable for travellers with a fixed itinerary and planned stopovers.

Cabs and shuttles

For short trips or if you’re in a hurry, cabs and private shuttles are flexible options. These services are particularly useful for connecting airports or ports to Porto-Vecchio.

However, they can be expensive, especially in high season. These means of transport, despite their punctuality, are to be preferred for specific needs or quick trips.

In short, there are several ways to reach Porto-Vecchio, each with its own particularities and advantages. The plane is ideal for fast journeys, while the ferry offers comfort and practicality for transporting a vehicle.

Once in Corsica, the car remains the preferred choice for exploring the surrounding wonders, although buses and cabs can prove useful depending on your needs. Whichever option you choose, a trip to Porto-Vecchio is the assurance of discovering an extraordinarily rich region, with idyllic beaches, mountains and a unique cultural heritage. So plan your itinerary and let yourself be seduced by the magic of Corsica!