Easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches of Corsica, and to the most beautiful mountain peaks… Porto-Vecchio is an ideal destination in Corsica for your vacations.
Here is our complete guide to plan your visit to Porto-Vecchio with:
- Map and tips on how to get there
- Best things to do in Porto-Vecchio
- Where to sleep, where to eat
- …
Best things to do in and around Porto-Vecchio – Summary
Why visit Porto-Vecchio in Corsica
Porto-Vecchio is the city of glamour by the sea.
It is a historical city with a citadel, but it has evolved enormously and has become a tourist center because it is surrounded by beautiful beaches such as the famous Palombaggia.
It is not the most beautiful city in Corsica, but it is rich in restaurants and cafes, and provides easy access to heavenly beaches and the mountains of the South.
What to do in Porto-Vecchio, the city – Top 3
- Visit the Citadel
- Sit on a terrace to enjoy the Corsican way of life
- See the trompe-l’oeil in the church of St. John the Baptist.
What to do around Porto-Vecchio, in South Corsica – Top 5
It’s very difficult to choose but here are our top 5 with a little bit of beach, a little bit of architecture/history and a little bit of mountain:
- Beach of Palombaggia
- Visit Bonifacio
- Beach of Tamaricciu
- Road to the needles of Bavella
- Bay of Rondinara
All these places (and more) are in photos after the practical advice.
Visit Porto-Vecchio in Corsica – tips and Map
How to get to Porto-Vecchio – Map
- Main city of the south of Corsica
- The region is directly accessible by plane, arriving at the small airport of Figari
- Otherwise, you can take the plane to the big airports of Ajaccio or Bastia and go to the south
- Or you can arrive by ferry – see options
- Ajaccio to Porto-Vecchio = 3h drive
- Bastia to Porto-Vecchio = 3h drive
- Figari to Porto-Vecchio = 25 min drive
- Here is a map to help you find your way
- and see all our tips for planning a dream trip to Corsica here
Need to rent a car in Corsica?
Our advice:
- 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 thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
How to explore the Porto-Vecchio area
- We highly recommend renting a car to explore the area (unless you choose a hotel 5min walk from the beach and plan to stay only on this beach all the time)
- From the center of Porto-Vecchio, in the middle of summer, there is a bus to Palombaggia and to Bonifacio, but the options are limited.
- Keep in mind that most of the roads are winding and therefore driving times are longer than expected.
- Porto-Vecchio to Palombaggia beach = 20min
- Porto-Vecchio to Bonifacio = 40min
- Porto-Vecchio to Sartene = 1h15
- Porto-Vecchio to Aiguilles de Bavella = 1h30
- And in the city, a free shuttle bus allows you to move around the city. It is called A Citadina – read more
Parking in Porto-Vecchio
The most practical thing is not to drive into the city.
Park in the large parking lot by the marina and explore on foot.
When to visit Porto-Vecchio – best period
Porto-Vecchio is a very popular destination in Corsica.
It is very popular in summer. If you are visiting at this time, book well in advance.
The water temperature is best from late June to early October.
In the middle of summer, you can have a heat wave.
Early June and early October are our favorite times.
How much time to allow
To visit the old town, half a day is enough.
To explore the region, from 1 week (for the must-sees) to 3 weeks (for a complete experience… and even more!)
Where to sleep in Porto-Vecchio
You have a very large choice of accommodations in the city, around or in the direction of the magnificent beaches of South Corsica such as Palombaggia.
Here are some of our suggestions:
- The hotel Restaurant le Goéland with its feet in the water
– see prices, pictures and availability - The hotel Residence U Pirellu between Porto-Vecchio and the famous beaches of the South
– see prices, pictures and availability - The Mistral hotel in the center but a cocoon effect
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Porto-Vecchio
Alternatively, you may consider:
- Luxury near the beach – Les Bergeries de Palombaggia
Probably the most famous luxury accommodation in Corsica. It is within walking distance of the beach and offers fantastic views and heated pool.
– See photos and availability - Luxury near the city – Hotel Don Cesar
It is very close to Porto-Vecchio with fantastic views and large pools
– See photos and availability - Original –
If you are looking for something different, consider staying on a sailboat with a small kitchen and near Porto-Vecchio
– See photos and availability - Camping Bungalows – for those who are looking to get the camping atmosphere but with a little more comfort, consider the Asphodele Bungalows
– See photos and availability - Villas – Vasca d’Oro is another residence with fully furnished villas
– See photos and availability
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1. Visit the Citadel of Porto-Vecchio and its church Saint-Jean Baptiste
Porto-Vecchio Corsica is one of the largest cities on the island and a medium-sized port on the east coast.
The region is beautiful but the city of Porto-Vecchio is not the most fascinating of Corsican cities(see our favorites).
Porto-Vecchio has an old part with the citadel on the hill and a more modern part especially around the port
From the port:
- go up the hill,
- pass in front of the Genoese gate – the historical entrance to the city
- Visit the Bastion with its beautiful views of the gulf
- explore the narrow streets of the Citadel
The citadel is of Genoese style, built in the 16th century. There are plenty of cafes, stores and restaurants.
Don’t miss to visit the church of St. John the Baptist which was completed in the 18th century, at the level of the bell tower.
It is named after the patron saint of the city.
It is known for its trompe l’oeil paintings and stained glass windows.
2. Relax along the Marina
Porto-Vecchio is especially appreciated for its restaurants, bars, cafes, ice cream parlors… for its Corsican way of life by the sea.
So take the time to rest and enjoy the sea, the mountains and the Corsican gastronomy.
3. Beach of Palombaggia
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 20min
Palombaggia is the most famous of all the beaches in Corsica as it has often been ranked as one of the best beaches in the world(see our list of the most beautiful in Corsica).
The beach has several coves with long stretches of white sand lined with umbrella pines.
Moreover, there are fantastic red rocks to explore in between: fun on land and ideal for snorkeling.
See tips and photos
Planning a dream trip to Corsica?
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- 130+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
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4. Beach of Tamaricciu
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 20min
Like Palombaggia, the beach of Tamaricciu is a long stretch of white sand, turquoise water and pine trees.
When you park along the road, you have a beautiful view on the bay from the top.
And one of the most photographed places in South Corsica is the small cove between Tamaricciu and Palombaggia.
It has giant white and gray boulders, shallow clear water and a beautiful stone pine tree.
5. Beach of Santa Giulia
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 15min
Beautiful protected bay with clear, shallow waters and all the facilities you could need. This beach is quite large with fine white sand. One of the most popular beaches of South Corsica.
6. Bay of Rondinara
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 30min
Rondinara is known as one of the most beautiful bays in Europe and we agree.
The beach itself was not our favorite (although it is very beautiful with shallow turquoise water and protected coves) but we fell in love with the rocks on the right side (facing the sea). 5min walk to very very colorful rocks.
Read more about it.
How to get to Corsica
Option 1: by ferry
Departure from France and Italy – see all options in our article
or directly compare schedules, prices and availability
Advantage: you can take your car
Option 2: by plane
Airports in Bastia, to visit the North, Figari to visit the South, or Ajaccio convenient for all Corsica.
Compare prices and availability ofairline tickets
And then rent a car: see our favorite comparator
If you are traveling in the summer, remember to book early to get the best prices and choices!
Need more help choosing?
See our advice on how to go to Corsica
7. Visit Bonifacio
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 30min
Bonifacio is clearly a must-see in Southern Corsica.
We love it because it combines nature with history and architecture.
In this area, the waterfront is made up of white limestone cliffs eroded by the elements. On a long promontory, the medieval city of Bonifacio and its fortifications are still standing. What to do:
- Explore the city on foot with its narrow streets and old houses.
- Descend the impressive staircase inside the cliff – 189 fascinating steps and a funny legend around it
- Take a boat ride to see it from the sea, which is fascinating
- Walk to Cape Pertusato for enchanting landscapes.
Plan your visit with our guide to Bonifacio.
8. Boat to Lavezzi Islands
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 0 – departure from the marina
The most famous rocks of South Corsica are located on the Lavezzi islands.
The whole island is covered with them! Pink, gray, black… they come in different sizes and shapes but they are everywhere. See more pictures.
You can reach the island by boat directly from Porto-Vecchio. The boat trip is a little longer than from Bonifacio, but the views over Corsica are magnificent.
Read more
See options from Porto-Vecchio
9. To refresh in the Forest of the Ospedale
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 35min to the lake
A little lower and closer to Porto-Vecchio is the forest of Ospedale and its lake. It is a beautiful area with lots of shade. A very nice place to relax when it is really hot.
10. Admire the needles of Bavella
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 1h to the parking
The other advantage of traveling in Corsica is that you are never far from the mountains.
South Corsica is no exception. And the roads are actually less difficult than in other regions(see our driving guide).
One of the most famous mountain peaks of the island is the Aiguilles de Bavella. They are only 1h to 1h30 drive from Porto-Vecchio.
These are fascinating rock walls with jagged peaks. The highest reaches 1855m (6086ft).
The road to get there is splendid. A change of atmosphere from the paradise beaches!
11. Feel the Corsican spirit in Sartene
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 1h10
Another city to visit in South Corsica is Sartene, one of the most beautiful cities in Corsica. It is halfway between Porto-Vecchio and Ajaccio.
It is not as impressive as Bonifacio but it is really typical of Corsica (whereas Bonifacio seems more Italian).
Sartene is currently considered as “the most Corsican of the Corsican cities”.
It has tall buildings packed together. Its atmosphere is unique.
We recommend spending at least a few hours to explore it.
Plan your trip to Corsica!
→ Inspiration destinations
Planning a road trip in Corsica
Itinerary: 3 days – 4 or 5 days
→ 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
→ Practice
12. Bathing in a river in the valley of Solenzara
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 50min to 1h10
One of the most visited gorges is the valley of Solenzara. It has several sections where it is easy to access the water and enjoy a refreshing swim.
The water is emerald in color, a contrast to the sparkling white rocks of the riverbed.
And the river Solenzara is surrounded by dense vegetation and mountains in all directions.
13 à 15. Other beautiful beaches around Porto-Vecchio
13. Bay of Pinarellu
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 25min
The long bay has 2 km of white sandy beaches with shallow waters in a protected environment.
You can choose to settle either at the wild end of the south side of the bay, or near the colorful rocks, on fine sand near the village to enjoy its many restaurants.
From everywhere, you have a view of the bay island and its 500 year old tower.
14. Bay of San Ciprianu
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 20min
Not as picturesque as the other bays, but easy to access and there are all the facilities on this long stretch of white sand with shallow waters. It has the shape of a beautiful shell.
Water sports are offered with equipment rental.
15. Fautea Beach
Driving time from Porto-Vecchio = 25min
Fautea has 3 beautiful white sand beaches, one in the village and 2 that can be reached by short walks.
The most fascinating is the beach of the Tower in the middle: a beautiful little cove surrounded by lush nature (with juniper trees). The northern point has an accessible Genoese tower in good condition.
More ideas in our article on the most beautiful beaches around Porto-Vecchio.
16 à 20. Activities in and around Porto-Vecchio
16. Snorkeling
Most of the beaches of South Corsica have rocks and posidonia meadows. These are great environments to snorkel, see fish and admire the underwater scenery.
Palombaggia is a good option for snorkeling.
The water is really transparent in the area.
17. Explore archaeological sites
Evidence indicates that groups of humans settled in Southern Corsica around 8500 BC. They exploited the natural resources of their environment (fishing, gathering, collecting).
Around 6000 BC another group of humans arrived in Corsica. This time they were farmers and breeders and they started to organize themselves in villages.
Later, in the Bronze Age, fortified villages were built around the Alta Rocca. This is for example the case of Cucuruzzu, our favorite prehistoric site in Corsica.
The 2-hour loop hike is a real treat with a forest that looks magical, giant rocks that were used as shelters and complexes built long ago.
A fascinating experience.
But there are many other places you can explore if you like prehistoric sites. For example, closer to the sea, you can also find remains of ancient villages with menhirs and dolmens.
17. Diving in the Cerbicale Islands
Many places are famous in Corsica for scuba diving.
For example, on the side of Porto-Vecchio, the Cerbicale islands are a superb playground.
You can take your first dive or go on a water walk.
18. Explore by kayak or paddle board
Several beaches around Porto-Vecchio offer kayaking tours.
This is one of the best ways to explore the coast, quietly, discovering the rocks.
Some also rent paddle boards, for those who want to work on their abdominal muscles!
Some beaches also have jet-skis but between the air and noise pollution, we do not recommend them.
19. Hiking near Porto-Vecchio
You can also find many hikes around Porto-Vecchio for all levels.
Some of the most beautiful are:
- The southern part of the GR20
- The tour of the needles of Bavella
- The customs path in Bonifacio
- The Waterfall of Piscia Di Gallu
- The paths of Bruzzi
- …
20. Parks and experiences
And from Porto-Vecchio, if you have a car, you can drive a bit to discover new sensations:
- Introduction to canyoning in Pulischellu – read more and see availability
- Complete canyoning experience in Pulischellu – read more and see availability
- Or sport canyoning in Purcaraccia – read more and see availability
- Sea kayaking near Propriano (west coast) – read more and see availability
- Mountain bike rental
- The adventure park of Porto-Vecchio with tree climbing
- The Corsica Park, an amusement park
- The Xtrem Sud Park at 30min from Porto-Vecchio with tree climbing
- …
21. Savor
After all these explorations, you will surely want to stop and discover the local gastronomy.
The restaurants and grocery stores offer; cold cuts, cheeses, cookies…
Among the most famous in Corsica, and in southern Corsica:
- Cold cuts with dry and salted hams, such as risette
- Denti, a very well known fish in the Mediterranean. It is cooked in many different ways
- Corsican cheeses, also very salty
- and to finish with sweetness, the canistrelli, small dry cookies which exist plain or with many different flavors.
In Porto-Vecchio, we recommend, among others
- The Don Cesar restaurant (gastronomic)
In a 5 star hotel, Corsican specialties and Italian inspiration. All the flavors of the Mediterranean in your plate. - Le Belvédère (Gastronomic)
A romantic decor, feet in the water; a kitchen with seasonal products and aromatic plants of the soil. - Casadelmar brunch (brunch)
for a fresh produce brunch with beautiful views of the bay - Santa Marina (gastronomic)
a gastronomic restaurant with feet in the water with colorful and fresh dishes.
22. Nights club
And to finish your evenings, and to let off a little steam if you have any energy left, Porto-Vecchio is the most active city at night.
Via Notte is the most famous nightclub in the city. It is an open-air disco. The club was destroyed in 2020.
See the website to follow the reopening and programming.
Need to rent a car in Corsica?
Our advice:
- 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 thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
1, 2, 3 days in Porto-Vecchio… or a week
1 or 2 days in Porto-Vecchio
If you only have one day in Porto-Vecchio, I guess you have other days in road trip around.
According to your points of interest:
- Beach hopping with mainly Palombaggia, Tamaricciu and Rondinara
- or the Citadel, the church and one of the beaches (Palombaggia surely)
3 days in Porto-Vecchio
If you are here only for a long weekend to discover Porto-Vecchio and South Corsica, we think of:
- Day 1 = Beach hopping with mainly Palombaggia, Tamaricciu and Rondinara
- Day 2 = Bonifacio
- Day 3 = the mountains towards the Ospedale and the needles of Bavella
This way you have an introduction to the sea, mountains and architecture.
5 days, a week or more…
The options are vast!
Among your time, we think it takes:
- At least one day with Palombaggia, Tamaricciu and Rondinara
- At least one day with Bonifacio
- A boat trip to the Lavezzi Islands
And for the rest, pick from the list in this article! Or see our eBook with all our favorite places:
Planning a dream trip to Corsica?
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- 130+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 220 photos to help you choose
What to do in Porto-Vecchio when it rains
Go out anyway, as long as it’s not stormy, you can still swim.
Also go to the site of Cucuruezzu, because the forest becomes enchanted under the rain!
Market in Porto-Vecchio
The markets in Porto-Vecchio take place every Wednesday and Sunday morning.
Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio?
If you are still wondering where to go between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio, read our detailed comparison, with photos.
