Between mountain and sea, Corsican cities are often built around ancient citadels. They combine culture, history and nature, as they are often close to beautiful beaches or mountains.
Here is our selection of the most beautiful towns and cities in Corsica, to consider visiting during your trip, as well as a map to help you orient yourself and plan.
We have selected them after our own visits.
The best towns of Corsica – map and selection
Here is our selection of the most beautiful towns in Corsica.
With the exception of Sartene and Corte, they are all coastal towns. They are in the heart of the most beautiful destinations where to go in Corsica.
It is difficult to compare them because they are very different. But if we absolutely had to choose (for a vacation), our top 3 is:
- Bonifacio
- Calvi
- Sartene
We present them all to you in pictures, later in the article.
This article focuses on cities. If you want to see the Corsican villages, read this article.
Here is a map to help you orient yourself and locate them:
This list considers the beauty of the cities. But if you are looking for a place to stay, check out our article on where to stay in Corsica.
1. Bonifacio
Why visit? Our review
Bonifacio is definitely the most fascinating city in Corsica. Established on white cliffs, it is suspended above the water.
Its port is well protected, and the whole city offers a lot to do and see.
Its most famous feature is the King Aragon Staircase, made up of 189 steps cut into the cliff to reach a freshwater spring.
Boat trips allow you to admire it from the sea.
It’s a great mix of history, culture, architecture and nature.
We loved it, especially at sunset when the rays hit the cliffs.
What to see and do in Bonifacio?
- Explore the alleys of the citadel on foot and see the different viewpoints
- Take a boat tour to admire the structure of the peninsula, the sea caves and the houses that seem to float on the cliffs
- Hike to the Cape of Pertusato for exceptional views
- Go down the Escalier d’Aragon, carved at 45° in the rock, to find yourself at the foot of the cliffs
- Learn more in our article to visit Bonifacio
Practical advice
- City of South Corsica
- Allow at least 1 day to explore the city with all its monuments, views and the staircase, but we also recommend spending a night to really soak up this spectacular place and enjoy the sunset over the cliffs.
- Do not miss to see it from a boat, it is very impressive.
- Several parking lots inside the old town (paying).
- From the marina to the old town, you have to go up. The access is steep but not too long.
Lodging
Bonifacio has a wide choice of accommodations of all styles.
We recommend..:
The Cala Di Greco hotel – we loved the decor integrated into the maquis and the exceptional view of the citadel.
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Solemare Hotel, at the foot of the citadel. His pool has a great view!
– see prices, pictures and availability
The hotel Version Maquis Citadelle – a little more out of town, luxury in the heart of the Corsican maquis.
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Bonifacio
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Bonifacio
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- L’A Cheda (gastronomic)
Whether by the pool or in the beautiful dining room, enjoy the rich menu concocted by Chef Lionel Lebrun. You can taste carefully selected Corsican products, from the Mediterranean caught sar, to the Corsican organic veal accompanied by an artichoke with the scent of Clementine… The Mediterranean is in your mouth! - Da Pasano (light catering)
This time we are on the port of Bonifacio, with a restaurant that has taken on the mission of inscribing traditional Corsican cuisine in the codes of the moment. You can enjoy tapas and small dishes that revisit the best of Corsican products, from the Zecca soup (spider crab) to the Milk Shake of Bouillabaisse, without forgetting the terrine of rivia (offal of goat and lamb)! Always surprised, never disappointed. - Lan’k (market cuisine)
In the high streets of the city, 2 steps from the church of Sainte Marie Majeure, an authentic and simple cuisine. The fish is available in risotto (gambas and scallops) or grilled with sesame (tuna). Remember to make a reservation to get one of the wonderful tables under the arcades.
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).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
2. Calvi
Why visit? Our review
Calvi is the main town in the Balagne region and offers picturesque views from all angles.
You can see either the beach and the high mountains, or the sea and the citadel, or the peninsula of La Revellata…
The citadel is located on a peninsula.
Rumor has it that Calvi is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.
What to see and do in Calvi?
- Admire the citadel of Calvi
- Walk along the beach between the citadel and the mountains
- Visit the Citadel and enjoy the view of the mountainous coast from the fortifications
- Take the train to L’Ile-Rousse to discover the beautiful coast
- Fun on the rocks of Punta di Spanu
- Explore the villages of the Corsican Balagne, perched in the hills.
- Learn more in our guide to Calvi
Practical advice
- City in the region La Balagne
- North of Corsica, west coast
- Easy to explore on foot but there are uneven cobblestones inside the citadel.
- Park outside the citadel (fee required).
- Plan at least one day to enjoy the city and the beach.
- But we recommend you to spend at least one night to enjoy the sunset on the citadel.
Lodging
Calvi has a wide choice of accommodation of all styles.
We recommend..:
The Onda hotel and its decor in accordance with the place
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Hotel Kasano with its unbeatable location and works of art
– see prices, pictures and availability
La Villa Calvi hotel for a little luxury with sumptuous views and a relaxing atmosphere.
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Calvi
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Calvi
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- Restaurant La Signoria (starred)
The table at the paradisiacal Relais et Chateaux La Signoria is worthy of the place, facing the forest of Bonifato. The chef, Romain Masset, who has worked in the best Provençal restaurants, works with respect for the beautiful products of the Corsican soil. The balance of flavors and cooking magnifies its exceptional dishes (porcini, pike, chuck…) for our greatest pleasure. - Restaurant Ile de Beauté (brasserie)
Whether you choose the terrace facing the port or the carefully decorated dining room, you will enjoy a convivial bistro cuisine, from pan-fried calamari with parsley to braised lamb mice. - Restaurant Via Marine (market cuisine)
In a very pleasant setting, with the soft sound of the halyards of the pleasure boats moored nearby, you will be able to taste a creative cuisine as we like them. The prawns will be cooked with soy and citrus caramel, sprinkled with peanut chips, while the pork loin will be topped with a honey spice juice…
3. Sartene
Why visit? Our review
It is a town with a village spirit.
It is considered as the most Corsican of the Corsican cities, because it is very representative of the Corsican rustic spirit.
Its history dates back to medieval times, and part of the city was built in the early 16th century.
There are several views of the mountain and the city, charming streets and a photogenic church.
What to see and do in Sartene?
- Walk through the streets of the city
- Admire the typical Corsican stone houses
- Visit the church of Saint Mary
- Relax on one of the terraces
- Collecting views of the city and the sea
- Find out more in our article on Sartène
Practical advice
- In South Corsica
- Near Propriano, halfway between Bonifacio and Ajaccio
- Few parking lots and parking spaces along the streets.
- Stairs and steep streets.
- Many restaurants and stores.
- Very popular at lunch time. It is better to get there early enough
Lodging
On the side of Sartene, we recommend:
Hotel Rossi, calm in the heart of the city
– See prices, pictures and availability
The Best Western Plus San Damianu hotel with its exceptional views
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Bartaccia, Propriano, on the coast, with sea view.
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Sartene
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Sartène and Propriano
Restaurants
coming soon
HOW TO GET TO Corsica
Option 1: by ferry
Departure from France and Italy
- See all ferry options in our article
- Compare schedules, prices and availability directly
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 flights!
4. Bastia
Why visit? Our review
Main city of the North of Corsica, it goes back to the Roman time when it was called Cardo.
Its historic center overlooks the old port with a fortified citadel.
It is very pleasant to walk through the old streets and around the marina.
The atmosphere is lively.
Do not miss the fortifications of the citadel.
What to see and do in Bastia?
- Discover the citadel district with the surrounding walls on a promontory
- Enter the religious buildings: Oratory of Saint Roch from the 17th century, church of Saint John the Baptist
- Visit the Museum of Bastia in the Governor’s Palace – dedicated to the history and heritage of Corsica
- Go on a tour of the Cap Corse
- Explore Patrimonio and its vineyards
- See our article on the best things to do in Bastia
Practical advice
- North of Corsica
- East Coast
- Cobblestone streets, wear comfortable shoes.
- Allow half a day to a day to enjoy the city and its citadel, 1 day to also visit the palace. But it is a city with a lot of atmosphere and it is worth spending a night there.
- Many restaurants and stores.
Lodging
In Bastia, we recommend:
Des Gouverneurs Hotel with its sea views
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Monsieur Miot hotel with its unique decor.
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Alivi with views, sea, pool and private beach, 10-minute drive from the center.
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Bastia
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Bastia
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- Restaurant A Scaletti (market cuisine)
On a beautiful terrace overlooking the old port, A Scaletti offers a short and neat menu as we like them. Whether you succumb to the filet of beef in a hazelnut and herb crust or to the wild boar stew, the gustatory pleasure will be there. We recommend the chestnut and vanilla ice cream profiteroles to finish your meal in style! - Restaurant Merenda Ghjulia (world cuisine)
An institution in Bastia, which mixes Corsican and Greek family cooking. You will have to make a difficult choice between lemon veal à la crétoise and veal sauté simmered in tomato sauce, prisuttu and maquis herbs… Or have a good appetite! - Restaurant Col tempo (market cuisine)
A beautiful terrace on the old port, for a short menu full of flavors. You can taste Corsican and seasonal products, magnificently highlighted through an inventive and resolutely contemporary cuisine. The monkfish medallion will be roasted with garlic and served with a brandade and a reduced soup juice, while the pissaladière will be covered with tomato confit!
5. L’Île-Rousse
Why visit? Our review
Ile Rousse is a seaside resort with beautiful white sand beaches nearby.
The main attraction is the walk of the islands of Pietra, hence its name, because it is formed of red granite.
The island is connected to the city by a narrow strip of land where the ferry dock is located.
And in the city center, you can discover an old market and interesting buildings.
It is a city with a relaxed atmosphere.
What to see and do?
- Walk to the island and climb to the Pietra lighthouse
- Enjoy the charm and atmosphere of the downtown area and its market
- Visit the villages on the hills around in the Balagne
- Enjoy the white sands of Bodri beach
- Take the coastal train to the Citadel of Calvi
- See our article on Ile-Rousse
Practical advice
- North of Corsica
- West Coast
- Easy to explore on foot
- Allow half a day for the island and downtown, longer if you want to enjoy the beach.
- Numerous restaurants
- Beautiful at sunset
Lodging
Hotel Rocabella in the heart of the city, with a soothing natural setting.
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Casa Rossa Hotel. It is not just in the center, but not far.
It has a lot of charm. Once inside, we really enjoyed the atmosphere.
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Liberata, facing the sea
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Casa Paradisu, for a touch of luxury in a magnificent garden.
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Ile-Rousse
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in L’Île-Rousse
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- U Bistrotellu d’a Quadrera
In one of the alleys of the city, a restaurant which handles humor and very good Corsican family recipes. You can opt for the soup of the chef’s ex-wife or tackle the entrecote steak topped with its Corsican cheese sauce. Only happiness and conviviality! - The Restaurant Le Rendez-Vous
A must in Ile Rousse, the restaurant of the hotel L’escale Côté sud which offers not one, but two terraces with a breathtaking view on the bay. The menu is wide, enough to satisfy all tastes and appetites. We advise you to combine tapas and a generous salad with good Corsican products. - Acula Marina Restaurant
A restaurant with its feet in the water, overlooking the beach of Caruchettu. What a pleasure to taste swordfish a la plancha or paccheri Sicilian style in such a setting!
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
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6. Saint-Florent
Why visit? Our review
Saint-Florent is a popular destination and one of our favorites: a charming little port with an old fort in a natural bay with the mountains in the background.
We like the variety of landscapes around: beaches, mountains, desert, vineyards…
Its Genoese citadel dates from the 15th century and its small cathedral of the Nebbio from the 12th century.
Its main beach is the Roya Beach but the most famous ones are accessible only by 4WD or by boat in the nearby Agriates desert.
What to see and do in Saint-Florent?
- Stroll along the water
- Walk to the Citadel
- Eat an ice cream!
- Walk to the beach of the Roya and relax
- Sit and admire the view of the gulf
- To go around the Cap Corse
- Take the boat to explore the Agriates desert
- more about Saint-Florent
Practical advice
- North of Corsica
- West Coast
- Allow at least half a day to stroll through the old town and enjoy the views of the gulf.
- But it is a great destination for a whole vacation, thanks to the variety of landscapes around
- Pedestrian city
- Many restaurants, and famous ice creams!
Lodging
The hotel La Roya, almost feet in the water, ideal for romantic sunsets.
– see prices, pictures and availability
The hotel Auberge la Lustincorne, in the village of Patrimonio just next door, in the heart of the vineyards.
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel La Dimora in a nearby village, a superb charming residence
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Saint-Florent
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Saint-Florent
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- Restaurant La Gaffe
When a Breton gets lost on the quays of a beautiful Corsican port, it gives La gaffe. The lobster from the Gulf of Saint-Florent is served alongside the Norman oyster from Isigny and the Corsican suckling pig is confit with Patrimonio wine. A true polyphony of taste to be consumed without moderation! - Restaurant L’Auberge du Pêcheur
As its name indicates, here we eat raw fish directly from the fish market and the boat Saint Christophe! You can enjoy it raw in sushi or sashimi or cooked with vegetables and flowers from the garden. A favorite is the Provençal-style bass, caramelized fennel and parsley tuile… - Restaurant Delfino
On the beautiful beach of the Ospedale, a magnificent terrace overlooking the sea. You can enjoy simple, healthy and good food. We like to nibble a truffled focaccia with the sea as our only horizon.
7. Corte
Why visit? Our review
Corte is the historical capital of Corsica, located in the mountains and in the heart of the island.
It offers a spectacular setting, with a 15th century citadel and 360° views of the mountains.
It is an excellent starting point to explore the mountains of Corsica.
What to see and do in Corte?
- Walk through the streets of the old town
- At the top is the Citadel with the Museum dedicated to Corsica and its history. Each room is dedicated to a different part of the Corsican culture. It does not overload you with information. We enjoyed the visit of the museum
- Admire the splendid 360° view from the Belvedere
- Go hiking in the beautiful mountains that surround it.
Practical advice
- Center of the island, in the mountains
- Possibility to park near the Citadel and avoid walking up (paying parking)
- If you don’t feel like walking up, there is a tourist train that takes you to the museum
- Allow half a day for the city and the museum.
- Steep cobblestone streets – not so easy to walk on. Wear good shoes.
- Many bars and restaurants
Lodging
The accommodations around Corte have less charm, but they are often very beautiful views.
The Dominique Colonna Hotel surrounded by Nature with a decor in accordance
– see prices, pictures and availability
The hotel B&B A Chjusellina for those who seek peace and quiet.
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Duke of Padua Hotel in the heart of the city
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Corte
Restaurants
coming soon
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8. Ajaccio
Why visit? Our review
Ajaccio is the main city of Corsica.
It was probably developed during the 2nd century BC and its Genoese citadel dates from 1492.
The city of Ajaccio is mainly made of buildings surrounded by mountains on 3 sides and the sea on the other.
It is not the most charming to explore, in my opinion, but it has several buildings and monuments that are worth a visit.
If you ask yourself: Ajaccio or Bastia? Read our comparison
What to see and do in Ajaccio?
- Walk around the city to see: the citadel, the Notre Dame de l’Assomption cathedral, the Saint Roch church, the 19th century Lantivy palace
- Visit the National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence – a small museum where the emperor spent part of his childhood
- Visit the Fine Arts Museum in the Fesch Palace – a great mix of art and architecture, including the imperial chapel
- Take a boat to explore the Sanguinaires Islands
- See our article on the best things to do in Ajaccio
Practical advice
- South of the West Coast
- Allow 1 day to explore the city
- It is easy to walk around the old center and the marina.
- However, be aware that many accommodations are located higher up above the center.
Lodging
In Ajaccio, beware some rentals are on the heights and the slopes are steep!
We recommend..:
Hotel Palazzu Pozzo di Borgo in the center
– see prices, pictures and availability
Les Mouettes Hotel – Les Collectionneurs by the sea, out of the center
– see prices, pictures and availability
The San Carlu Citadelle Ajaccio hotel, modern and with beautiful views
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Ajaccio
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Ajaccio
Restaurants
We recommend..:
- Restaurant A Nepita (gastronomic)
An authentic Anglo-Saxon in the kitchen, Chef Simon Andrews, who works with seasonal Corsican products, speaks to us. The menu changes according to the market, with particular attention to the cooking to make the most of the freshness of the products. From the organic veal quasi with an iodized taste cooked at low temperature to the lobster risotto and panzetta, your taste buds will be delighted! - Restaurant l’Écrin
A little away from the very lively historical center of Ajaccio, not far from the Place d’Austerlitz, this restaurant with a warm setting carries the culinary creativity very high. The beef pincacha will be accompanied by sweet potato and wild pear juice, while the millefeuille will be with pistachio and fleur de sel, and topped with blueberry. Not even afraid! - Restaurant A Merendela Citadina
In the kitchen, Yannick Lambert, who is passionate about Corsica, still goes to the market every morning to select the best local products. In the plate, fritters with fresh cheese from the Alata cheese factory, a chuck confit at low temperature with pietra (Corsican beer) accompanied by coquillettes with juice… We love it!
9. Porto-Vecchio
Why visit? Our review
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.
What to see and do?
- Visit the citadel
- Walk along the port
- Relaxing on a café terrace
- Visit the Jean-Baptiste Church
- Explore the beautiful beaches in the area
- Climbing in the forest of Ospedale to escape the heat
- See our article on what to do in Porto-Vecchio
Practical advice
- Good place to base yourself and explore southern Corsica
- Slopes and cobbled streets as you explore the old town
- Many restaurants, bars and cafes
Lodging
Le Mariosa, a waterfront hotel with beach, restaurant, swimming pool…
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Casa Santini in the center of town, with its feet in the water
– see prices, pictures and availability
The Grand Hotel de la Cala Rossa if you’re looking for luxury with your feet in the sand
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Porto-Vecchio
See our reviews and photos of the best hotels in Porto-Vecchio
Restaurants
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.
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica
Inspiration destinations
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10. Cargese
Why visit? Our review
Cargèse is a charming little port town in the north of the Gulf of Sagone.
It is known for its 2 churches that face each other: one called Greek and the other called Latin.
It is well located near beautiful beaches and not far from the calanques de Piana.
What to see and do?
- Discover the 2 churches facing each other
- Relaxing along the Little Port
- Visit the famous calanques de Piana only 30 minutes away
- Explore the surrounding beaches including Stagnoli and Arone.
- Boat trips to the Calanques and Scandola
Practical advice
- On the West Coast
- North of Ajaccio
- The city is in height compared to the small port
- Nice restaurants around the port
Lodging
Many apartments around Cargèse
The Hotel Les Lentisques for a quiet stay near the sea
– see prices, pictures and availability
The apartments Casa Marina Cargèse with a beautiful decoration and a sea view
– see prices, pictures and availability
Hotel Residenza l’Alivetu – apartment-hotel with infinity pool
– see prices, pictures and availability
See the best rated accommodations in Cargèse
Restaurants
coming soon
Other Corsican cities
The choice of all these villages depends on your visit and your preferences.
This is our personal selection. But you can also consider:
Propriano
Propriano is a city with its feet in the water, with a marina and access to beautiful beaches.
Borgo
Located on the east coast of Corsica, the city of Borgo is perched on a hill between sea and land. It offers beautiful views on the horizon of the island of Elba and the Tuscan archipelago.
The most beautiful villages of Corsica
We saw all the most beautiful villages of Corsica.
If you want to complete the list, here are our top 10 most beautiful towns and cities:
- Pigna
- Speloncato
- Evisa
- Nonza
- Vescovato
- Sant’Antonino
- Piana
- Erbalunga
- Patrimonio
- Piedicroce
- Port Centuri
- Ota
Learn more in our article dedicated to Corsican villages.
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).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Frequently asked questions
Ajaccio or Bastia ?
Both cities have a long history and a lot of charm. You can’t go wrong staying in one of them.
If you want to stay in one city, our preference is Bastia for its vibe and easy access to many places we love.
Find out more in our article Ajaccio vs Bastia.
Calvi or Ile-Rousse: where to stay?
The 2 seaside towns of the Balagne are excellent options for your vacation.
To stay more in the city, with more bars and more beaches, choose Calvi.
For a town with more charm and a quieter atmosphere, choose L’Île-Rousse.
See our complete comparison: Calvi or Ile-Rousse.
Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio – which cities in South Corsica
Personally, we fell in love with Bonifacio.
If you like history, culture and cliffs, choose Bonifacio.
If you prefer easy access to beaches, bars and outdoor and water activities, choose Porto-Vecchio.
See our complete comparison.
