Ajaccio is an ideal base from which to explore the island of Beauty in all its diversity. Sea, mountains, wild coves and hilltop villages: we had a hard time choosing, so many and varied are the possibilities for excursions. This selection of the best excursions from Ajaccio will guide you to the best day trips from the capital.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Our 3 favorite excursions from Ajaccio
Ajaccio enjoys a privileged position on the west coast of Corsica, in the immediate vicinity of exceptional natural sites. For those who want to make the most of their time, here are our top three picks before our detailed reviews:
- Îles Sanguinaires: sail at sunset around this blood-red volcanic archipelago, one of Corsica’s iconic images – see prices, availability and book
- Scandola and the Calanques de Piana by sea: cruise along one of the most spectacular UNESCO sites in the Mediterranean – see prices, availability and bookings
- Canyoning: plunge into the gorges and rivers of Corsica for a day of pure adrenalin in the heart of nature – see prices, availability and bookings
1. The Îles Sanguinaires
Why do we recommend this tour?
Located a handful of kilometers northwest of Ajaccio, the Îles Sanguinaires form a volcanic archipelago of striking beauty. Their name comes from the glowing hues their rocks take on at sunset, a sight we found absolutely unique.
These granite islets, of which the main one is Grande Sanguinaire, are home to a rich marine fauna and offer panoramic views of the Gulf of Ajaccio that can’t be found anywhere else. We particularly recommend a boat trip, to get up close to the cliffs and appreciate the nuances of rock color in the evening light.
What you will see
- The volcanic archipelago and its red and ochre rocks, particularly striking at sunset.
- The surrounding marine fauna, including colonies of gulls and sometimes dolphins in the waters of the Gulf.
- Panoramic views over the Gulf of Ajaccio and the city skyline seen from the sea
- The Genoese Tower of La Grande Sanguinaire, a vestige of the island’s medieval history
- See our article
How much time should I allow?
Allow 2 to 3 hours for a boat trip around the Îles Sanguinaires from Ajaccio. Late afternoon outings are particularly recommended to enjoy the sunset lights on the rocks.
Want to discover the Îles Sanguinaires by sea?
Check prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
WHERE TO STAY IN Ajaccio
In the city center:
Hotel San Carlu and its panoramic view – see photos and availability
On the western seafront:
Hôtel Les Mouettes and its very pleasant terrace – see photos and availability
Marina side:
Best Western Amirauté Hotel, very practical – see photos and availability
In Porticcio:
Suite Home Hotel near the beach – see photos and availability
See our list of the 12 best hotels in Ajaccio, with our reviews
2. Scandola and the Calanques de Piana by sea
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Scandola Nature Reserve and the Calanques de Piana are among the most impressive landscapes in the Mediterranean. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these red porphyry cliffs plunging into an intense blue sea can only be fully admired from the water. We were deeply impressed by the sheer scale of the site: vertical walls, sea caves, inaccessible coves. It’s an excursion that leaves a lasting impression, all the more so as the nature reserve protects a remarkable biodiversity, both underwater and on the surface.
What you will see
- The UNESCO-listed red porphyry cliffs of Scandola, accessible only by boat
- The Calanques de Piana and their rock formations sculpted by erosion
- Crystal-clear coves for swimming and snorkelling, depending on the outing
- The marine fauna of the nature reserve: groupers, crested cormorants and sometimes dolphins
- See our articles on Piana and Scandola
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day for this excursion from Ajaccio. The round trip by boat is already substantial, and the site is worth taking the time to sail slowly to appreciate it all.
- Scandola and Piana boat trip from Ajaccio: See prices, photos and availability and book now!
3. Bonifacio by sea
Why do we recommend this tour?
Although Bonifacio is around 130km from Ajaccio by road, getting there by sea is an experience in itself. The town perched on its white limestone cliffs is one of Corsica’s strongest images, and seeing it rise from the boat remains a highlight of any trip to the island.
We recommend this excursion for those wishing to combine coastal cruising with the discovery of an exceptional historic city.
What you will see
- The white limestone cliffs of Bonifacio seen from the sea, one of Corsica’s most breathtaking panoramas.
- The natural harbour of Bonifacio, carved out of the rock, a true natural architectural jewel.
- Sea caves and the King of Aragon’s Staircase, carved into the cliffs
- More about Bonifacio
How much time should I allow?
Allow a full day for this excursion. The journey from Ajaccio is long, whether you choose to travel by road or by sea. On site, the city deserves at least 2 to 3 hours of sightseeing. We recommend an early morning departure.
- Cruise and boat trip to Bonifacio from Ajaccio: See prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
4. Canyoning in Corsican gorges
Why do we recommend this tour?
Corsica’s mountainous terrain is criss-crossed by numerous rivers, making it one of the most popular areas for canyoning in Europe. From Ajaccio, several gorges are accessible in less than an hour’s drive, offering routes suitable for all levels. We particularly appreciate these excursions for their ability to combine physical exertion, fresh-water swimming and total immersion in unspoilt wilderness. It’s an activity that allows you to see Corsica from a radically different angle to sea excursions.
What you will see
- The rocky gorges and corridors of Corsica’s interior, sculpted by rivers
- Crystal-clear basins and waterfalls for swimming and jumping
- Dense Corsican maquis vegetation surrounding rivers
- A wild natural landscape, far from the crowds of coastal sites
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day to a full day, depending on the route you choose. Guided outings generally include transport from Ajaccio, equipment and supervision by a qualified instructor. We recommend booking in advance, especially in high season.
- Canyoning from Ajaccio: See prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
5. Pointe de la Parata
Why do we recommend this tour?
Pointe de la Parata, some ten kilometers from Ajaccio, is one of the region’s most beautiful natural belvederes. This rocky cape juts out into the sea opposite the Îles Sanguinaires, offering an exceptional view of the archipelago and gulf.
We really enjoyed the countryside, far from the city but easily accessible.
What you will see
- Pointe de la Parata and its Genoese Tower, with a direct view of the Îles Sanguinaires
- The coastal road linking Ajaccio to La Parata, dotted with beaches and coves
- Panoramic views of the Îles Sanguinaires
How much time should I allow?
Allow half a day. You can get there by car in less than 20 minutes from the city center.
For travelers without a car, the open-top bus along the coast is a practical and pleasant option. We love this option for the freedom of enjoying the panorama without having to drive, while taking in the beautiful coastal roads between Ajaccio and La Parata.
- Ajaccio open-top bus tour, including Pointe de la Parata: See prices, photos and availability and make a reservation
It’s time to book!
Compare everything: companies, prices, schedules and availability.
6. Explore the mountains: Bastelica, Prunelli, Voile de la Mariée waterfall and hikes
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Ajaccio hinterland is often overlooked in favor of sea excursions, and wrongly so. Corsica’s mountains are home to landscapes of raw beauty, shaped by laricio pine forests, crystal-clear streams and high-altitude villages. Bastelica is one of these typical villages, perched at an altitude of over 800m, and famous for its charcuterie and cheese. The Cascade du Voile de la Mariée is one of Corsica’s most beautiful waterfalls, easily accessible by car from Ajaccio. We’re particularly fond of this less-frequented part of the island, with its remarkable authenticity. Other hikes, such as the Cascade des Anglais, offer the chance to get away from the coast for a day.
What you will see
- The village of Bastelica, with its granite houses and local gastronomic specialities
- La Cascade du Voile de la Mariée, one of Corsica’s highest and most beautiful waterfalls
- The Prunelli gorge with its pools
- Cascade des Anglais, accessible from the GR20, surrounded by Laricio pine forests
- Panoramic views of Corsican peaks and inland valleys
How much time should I allow?
This is a full-day excursion by car. Bastelica is about 45 minutes from Ajaccio, and the Voile de la Mariée waterfall about 1 hour. We recommend combining the two sites into a single outing, with lunch in Bastelica to sample the local produce.
For the Cascade des Anglais, allow 1 hour’s drive from Ajaccio and 1.5 hours for the return hike from the Vizzavona parking lot.
7. Isolella: beaches, kayaking and relaxation
Why do we recommend this tour?
The Presqu’île d’Isolella, south of Ajaccio, is one of these little-known addresses for tourists passing through. This small rocky promontory is home to fine sandy beaches and particularly calm, clear waters. We love this place for its relaxed atmosphere, ideal for an unhurried day.
Sea kayaking is particularly recommended here, to follow the coastline and discover nooks and crannies inaccessible on foot. It’s also a perfect destination for families who want to alternate between swimming and water sports.
What you will see
- The sandy beaches and turquoise waters of the Isolella peninsula
- Kayak-accessible coves lined with Mediterranean vegetation
- Rock formations
- Crystal-clear seabed, perfect for snorkelling
How much time should I allow?
Isolella is about 30 minutes south of Ajaccio by car. Half a day is enough to enjoy the beach and kayaking, but a full day allows you to cover a lot of ground along the coast. We recommend you leave early to find a parking space easily in season.
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).
- Remember to take outcomprehensive insurance (some roads are winding and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
8. Sartène, the most Corsican of Corsican towns
Why do we recommend this tour?
Sartène was described by Prosper Mérimée as “the most Corsican of Corsican towns”, and this reputation remains richly deserved. Built of dark granite on a rocky spur overlooking the Rizzanese valley, the town exudes a dense atmosphere that is both austere and fascinating.
We loved the coherence of its medieval architecture, its narrow alleys and tightly-packed houses. Sartène is also a town of traditions: every Good Friday it hosts one of Corsica’s most impressive religious processions.
What you will see
- The old town of Sartène, with its medieval streets and dark granite houses
- Place de la Libération, the lively heart of the town, surrounded by arcades and terraces.
- The Museum of Corsican Prehistory, whose collection retraces 6,000 years of the island’s history.
- Panoramic views of the Rizzanese valley and surrounding hills
- Read more
You can also round off your visit to Sartène with a stop en route at the prehistoric site of Filitosa. You’ll also be able to learn about a very different and often little-known aspect of Corsica: Torréenne culture.
How much time should I allow?
Sartène is about 1h15 from Ajaccio by road. Allow 2 to 3 hours to stroll through the old town, visit the museum and have lunch on site. A full day is ideal if you also want to explore the surrounding area, including the Filitosa Prehistoric Site, some 30 km away.
THINGS TO DO AROUND ajaccio
Discover all our articles on the region:
- Best things to do in Ajaccio
- Where to stay in Ajaccio
- Luxury hotels in Ajaccio
- Seaside Hotels
- Best restaurants in Ajaccio
- Visit the Palais Fesch
- Visit the Maison Bonaparte
- Best excursions
- Ajaccio’s most beautiful beaches
- Discover the Îles Sanguinaires
- Rent a car at Ajaccio airport
- Itineraries: 1 day – 2 days – 1 week
Frequently asked questions about excursions from Ajaccio
Do I need a car for excursions from Ajaccio?
For many of the excursions on this list, a car is strongly recommended. Corsican public transport is limited outside the main roads. On the other hand, boat excursions (Scandola, Îles Sanguinaires, Bonifacio) leave directly from the port or include an organized transfer from Ajaccio: no personal vehicle is required. The open-top bus is also a good alternative for exploring the coast without driving.
What’s the best season for excursions from Ajaccio?
High season runs from June to September, when all water sports activities and boat tours are available. Spring (April-May) and autumn (October) are also excellent for mountain hikes and village visits: temperatures are pleasant, nature is beautiful and there’s less traffic. Outside this period, some boat trips are suspended.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica
Inspiration destinations
Best of
- 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
