The highlights of Ajaccio

Ajaccio, the imperial city of Corsica

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Ajaccio is the administrative capital of Corsica and its largest city. Nicknamed the “Imperial City”, it is world famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, on August 15, 1769. Nestled at the bottom of a magnificent gulf, surrounded by mountains, the city benefits from an exceptional natural setting that makes it an essential stop during a stay in Corsica.

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To organize your stay on site, the Pays d'Ajaccio Intercommunal Tourist Office is located 3 Boulevard du Roi Jérôme in the city center. In particular, it offers the Ajaccio City Pass, which gives access to several emblematic sites (Maison Bonaparte, Palais Fesch, guided tours, small train) for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours.

The essentials to see in Ajaccio

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The Bonaparte House and the Fesch Palace

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The birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, on Saint-Charles Street, is now a national museum that traces the history of the Bonaparte family. Nearby, the Palais Fesch houses one of the largest collections of Italian paintings outside Italy — a visit of at least two hours is a must. The Imperial Chapel completes this exceptional historical journey.

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The old town, the market and the Old Port

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The living heart of Ajaccio can be discovered on foot. Every morning, the covered market in Marcatu d'Aiacciu offers Corsican charcuteries (lonzu, coppa, figatellu), artisan cheeses, honeys from the Maquis and wines from the island. The Old Port and its colorful terraces are the ideal place for a morning coffee.

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The Sanguinary Islands

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At the end of the Route des Sanguinars, the Pointe de la Parata offers a breathtaking panorama of the archipelago and its volcanic rocks at sunset. Sea walks starting from the Old Port allow you to explore the Sanguinars and approach the doors of the Scandola Nature Reserve, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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Activities and excursions around Ajaccio

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Hiking, canyoning and water sports

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The Sentier des Crêtes (11 km) offers spectacular panoramic views of the Gulf. Canyoning in the Richjusa Canyon in Bocognano will delight thrill seekers. Sailing, diving and jet ski clubs are present in the gulf. THE Tourism Office allows you to book all these activities online.

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The Calanques de Piana and the Gulf of Valinco

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1h30 to the north, the Calanques de Piana — listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site — are among the most beautiful landscapes in the Mediterranean. To the south, the Gulf of Valinco and Propriano (1 hour drive) give access to the archaeological site of Filitosa, one of the most important in Corsican prehistory.

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Getting around and staying in Ajaccio

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To explore the region at your own pace, car rental is recommended — there are agencies at the airport and in town. For accommodation, consult Booking.com Ajaccio to compare availability.

Reach Ajaccio from the port of Bastia by train or car:

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Disembark in Bastia with Cors'Express is an excellent option for crossing the island and reaching the imperial city. Here is how to easily reach Ajaccio from the port of Haute-Corse:

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1. Exit the port and head south: As soon as you leave your ferry, follow the direction “Ajaccio” via the RT11. If you rent a vehicle, you will quickly leave the city of Bastia to start crossing Corsica from the inside.
2. Crossing the Vizzavona Pass: The main route takes the RT20. This trip of approximately 2:30 is an experience in itself: you will cross spectacular mountain landscapes, including Corte and the famous Vizzavona Pass, before heading back down to the Gulf of Ajaccio
3. ‍The panoramic train option (U Trinicellu): If you are a pedestrian, go to Bastia train station (a 10-minute walk from the port). The Corsican train offers one of the most beautiful routes in Europe. In about 3:30, you will cross the heart of the island to arrive directly at the center of Ajaccio, facing the sea.
4. Arrival in the city center: Whether by road or rail, you arrive in the heart of Ajaccio. The train station and the entrance to the city are located a stone's throw from the Cours Napoléon and the Tino Rossi port, allowing you to immediately enjoy the old town and the beaches.

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