The historic capital of Corsica, Ajaccio boasts a rich imperial heritage and remarkable museums. The town center, steeped in the history of Napoleon Bonaparte, invites you to explore its ancient mansions and lively squares. Beyond its historic heart, the town boasts all the charms of the Mediterranean, with its fine sandy beaches and unspoilt natural areas. We enjoyed the contrast between culture and nature that makes Ajaccio so attractive.
In this article, we suggest several itinerary options for visiting Ajaccio in a weekend! You’ll also find practical tips and photos to help you make up your own mind about the destination.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Practical tips for a 2-day visit to Ajaccio
Getting around Ajaccio
Ajaccio’s compact historic center is easily reached on foot, linking the main tourist attractions such as Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Cathedral and the covered market. For more remote destinations, such as the beaches of the Route des Sanguinaires, take the car or the local Muvistrava bus network. Find out more here. A maritime shuttle also links the imperial city to Porticcio, offering a beautiful view of the Gulf of Ajaccio. Find out more here.
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.
Map of Ajaccio’s main tourist attractions
This map shows key locations, such as Ajaccio town center and Îles Sanguinaires, to help you find your way around the region:
Where to sleep in Ajaccio?
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
Our ideal itinerary: 2 days in Ajaccio
Are you ready to embark on a 2-day tour of Ajaccio? Fasten your seatbelts, here we go! Discover the imperial city’s must-see activities in this itinerary!
(Day 1) 9h-10h: stroll through the old town and harbour
Start your day exploring the narrow streets and colorful squares in the heart of Ajaccio. We were charmed by the ochre and pink facades lining the picturesque streets. On your way, stop off at Place Foch to see the town hall and a famous statue of Napoleon as a Roman consul! The stroll will naturally take you to the bustling harbor, where you’ll discover boats docked. You’ll also appreciate the Plage Saint-François, right in the center of town, with its breathtaking views over the Gulf of Ajaccio.
(Day 1) 10am-11am: Shopping at the Ajaccio Market
Located close to the Tino Rossi marina and Place Foch, the Marché d’Ajaccio is the ideal place to discover the region’s culinary specialties. We were won over by the colorful stalls brimming with local produce. You’ll find charcuterie, cheeses including brocciu, local wines, myrtle liqueurs, chestnut pastries and, of course, the famous olive oil!
(Day 1) 11am-1pm: visit the Musée Fesch and the Chapelle Impériale
The Palais Fesch, also known as the Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Ajaccio, is one of the city’s leading cultural and artistic centers. It houses 3 major collections: Italian painting from the 14th to 18th centuries, the Napoleonic Empire and Corsican painters. Contemplate the works of such virtuosos as Botticelli, Titian, Poussin and Veronese. We were won over by the way the paintings were hung, in the style of Italian palaces. A real feast for the eyes!
Located in the north wing of the Palais Fesch, the municipal library boasts a remarkable collection of antiquarian works in its heritage room. On the opposite side of the building is the magnificent Imperial Chapel! The walls are adorned with stucco imitating marble. You’ll also discover the crypt, which houses the tombs of Charles and Letizia Bonaparte, the emperor’s 2 parents!
(Day 1) 1pm-2.30pm: lunch in the historic center
A good morning’s sightseeing is a must! To whet your appetite, here are 3 of our favorite restaurants in the historic center:
- Le Petit Restaurant for fine, tasty dishes made with local produce
- Restaurant A Nepita for its pleasant terrace on Calle San Lazaro and its fresh, simple seasonal cuisine.
- Restaurant Le Don Quichotte for its timeless setting and homemade specialities
More inspiration in our article on Ajaccio’s best culinary establishments!
(Day 1) 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm: discover the Maison Bonaparte
We highly recommend a visit to the Maison Bonaparte. Napoleon was born here on August 15, 1769, and lived here with his family. We plunged into the heart of the 18th century to discover this authentic residence, with its period furniture and objects. The collection traces Napoleon’s extraordinary life, from his childhood and military beginnings to his coronation as emperor. It’s one of Corsica’s most visited monuments!
(Day 1) 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm: a little gourmet break
Snack time is the perfect time to discover some Corsican specialties. We recommend stopping off at a patisserie in the town center to sample the delicious canistrelli, the fragrant cookies typical of the island, or the fiadone, a soft brocciu cake. Accompany these sweets with a coffee or a cool drink on the terrace to enjoy the Ajaccio atmosphere. If you prefer savoury dishes, opt for a board of Corsican charcuterie accompanied by a glass of local wine!
(Day 1) 5:30-7pm: Stroll through the Foreigners’ Quarter
Head for Place de Gaulle, the starting point for the walk, whose itinerary is available here. The Quartier des Étrangers, built in the 19th century to welcome the first tourists, boasts fine period buildings and numerous references to Napoleon. Throughout your walk, you’ll never cease to marvel at Ajaccio’s architecture, so keep your eyes peeled! The tour ends at Place d’Austerlitz, opposite the Monument à la gloire de Napoléon, which impressed us.
(Day 1) 7-9:30pm: dinner by the sea
Take advantage of your stay in Ajaccio to dine overlooking the Mediterranean Sea! Discover our selection of fine restaurants in exceptional settings:
- Restaurant A Terrazza (Hôtel Les Mouettes) for its breathtaking view over the Bay of Ajaccio and its Corsican dishes.
- Restaurant Dolce Vita (Hotel Dolce Vita) for its grandiose terrace that reveals the Îles Sanguinaires
- Restaurant Le Week-End (Hôtel le Week-End) for its seafood cuisine and incredible scenery
More options available in our selection of the best tables in Ajaccio!
(Day 1) 9:30 p.m.-2:00 p.m.: enjoy the services of your hotel
We advise you not to return too late from your day’s sightseeing, so that you can take full advantage of your accommodation. The restaurants mentioned above all belong to 4-star hotels, which are among our favorite establishments in Ajaccio. Why do we love them?
- Hotel Les Mouettes for breathtaking sea views and elegant surroundings – see photos, photos and availability.
- Hotel La Dolce Vita for its relaxing atmosphere and outdoor swimming pool – see photos, photos and availability.
- Hotel Le Week End for its location on Terre Sacrée Beach and its spa area – see photos, prices and availability.
(Day 2) 9:30am-1pm: exploring the Îles Sanguinaires
Sail to the Îles Sanguinaires! This archipelago, just a few boatloads from Ajaccio, is made up of 4 magnificent rocky islands, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. We were charmed by this wild landscape surrounded by the sea. Here, you can discover beautiful hiking trails, take a refreshing swim or admire the sunsets and the view of the Pointe de la Parata.
>> Book your boat trip in advance <<
(Day 2) 1pm-2.30pm: lunch in a traditional Corsican restaurant
If you’re looking for a typically Corsican place to eat in a friendly atmosphere, here are our 2 recommendations:
- Restaurant A Cantina Di Ghjulia for its generous family-style cuisine, with flavors from the island of beauty.
- Restaurant A Merendella Citadina for its dishes featuring regional products and its warm setting
More options available in our selection of the best tables in Ajaccio!
(Day 2) 2:30 pm – 6:30 pm: enjoy Ajaccio’s magnificent beaches
While the beaches in the town center are ideal for a refreshing break, we recommend you go further afield to enjoy Ajaccio’s most beautiful shores. On the Route des Îles Sanguinaires, you’ll discover a magnificent string of beaches bathed in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. Allow several hours, or even a full afternoon, if you’d like to try out some water sports. Among our favorite beaches, accessible by bus or car:
- Capo di Feno beach
- Barbicaja Beach
- Sacred Earth Beach
If you get the chance, enjoy a nightcap overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio to round off your weekend in style! Here are 2 good places to enjoy a cocktail with your feet (almost) in the water:
- Restaurant Neptune (Plage Marinella) for its idyllic setting, bohemian chic decor and fresh dishes
- Restaurant La Paillote Le Week-End (Plage de la Terre Sacrée) for its breathtaking view of Îles Sanguinaires and its home-cooked cuisine.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Corsica
All the information you need for your trip:
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- 130+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 220 photos to help you choose
Alternative 1 – outdoor activities in Ajaccio
Ajaccio offers a wide choice of outdoor activities, from sea excursions to water sports and hiking. Depending on your schedule, plan one or more of the following activities to make up your weekend.
Walk to the pointe de la Parata
The Parata peninsula, awarded the Grand Site de France label in 2017, amazed us with its natural landscapes shaped by wind and sea. The site can be reached in a number of ways: by car, by bus, by small train, or even by boat for a different perspective. Download the hiking trail from the official Ajaccio tourist office website here. The vegetation is lush, and the view of Îles Sanguinaires is breathtaking. For those who love walking, we climbed up to the Genoese tower of La Parata.
>> Discover the Pointe de la Parata by boat <<
Try a water sports activity: diving, jet-skiing, flyboarding
Water sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Ajaccio, where several service providers offer a wide variety of activities at sea. There are plenty of options to suit all levels and tastes: jet-skiing for speed, towed buoys for thrills, or flyboarding for the more intrepid! You’ll have the opportunity to discover the Ajaccio coast from a different angle, while enjoying the pleasures of the Mediterranean Sea:
Discover Capo di Feno: a wild natural area
Capo di Feno is a vast natural area on the outskirts of the Ajaccio conurbation. Comprising a cape and a beach, the site has been Natura 2000 protected since 2011. We loved discovering this wild place! It’s a 2h30 round-trip walk from the Grand Site de la Parata parking lot along the Sentier des Douaniers.
Embark on a sea excursion
The Tino Rossi marina offers a wide range of sea excursions. You can take the sea shuttle that links Ajaccio to Porticcio (find out more here), or set sail for more distant horizons! We particularly recommend cruises to the Scandola Reserve and the Calanques de Piana, or excursions to Bonifacio. You’ll discover the richness of Corsica’s landscapes from the sea, and have access to exceptional bathing spots inaccessible by land.
>> Book your tickets so you don’t miss out on the excursion of your dreams! <<
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Alternative 2 – activities with children
Not sure what to do with your children in Ajaccio? Don’t worry, here’s our small, made-to-measure selection:
Discover the Naporama Museum
Although very small, the Naporama Museum is well worth a visit. We were captivated by the 23 miniature scenes depicting the key moments in Napoleon I’s life. Over 800 personalized, hand-painted Playmobil figures bring these historical reconstructions to life, based on period lithographs. It’s a fun and educational activity to discover with your kids!
Take the little train from Ajaccio
For those of you who would like to visit the town without walking too much, we recommend the little Ajaccio train. It’s a fun way to discover the city without getting too tired. There are 2 different itineraries: the Imperial City tour and the Îles Sanguinaires tour. For more information, visit the official website here.
Embark on a bus tour of Ajaccio
There’s another option for getting around walking: the Ajaccio Vision bus tour. If you love heights, you’ll love this experience! The 2-storey bus features a sunroof for a 360° view of the imperial city. It’s a fun way to discover Ajaccio with your kids! There are 2 tours lasting 55min or 1h30. Find out more here.
Visit the city of turtles: A Cupulatta
Why not take a family turtle-watching trip? A Cupulatta, also known as the City of Turtles, is a 2.5-hectare natural site home to 170 species and over 3,000 animals. The park aims to protect and safeguard the turtles, offering them optimal conditions for reproduction and a peaceful life. We loved exploring the reserve and discovering the unique specimens!
>> Book your queue-jumping ticket to avoid queuing <<
THINGS TO DO AROUND ajaccio
Discover all our articles on the region:
Alternative 3 – In the footsteps of Napoleon Bonaparte
Beyond the Maison Bonaparte and the Palais Fesch, Ajaccio is brimming with sites and monuments in honor of Napoleon. From the cathedral where he was baptized to the statues erected in his honor, follow in the emperor’s footsteps through the streets of his birthplace!
Reflecting at Ajaccio Cathedral
Ajaccio Cathedral marks a turning point in Napoleonic history. Listed as a historic monument since 1906, it witnessed a major event: the baptism of Napoleon Bonaparte on June 21, 1771. It’s also a remarkable example of Baroque architecture. A pink marble plaque honors the emperor’s memory on the first pillar as you enter the cathedral on the left.
Taste Corsican specialities at Grotte Napoléon
For an original lunch break in a historic setting, visit La Grotte Napoléon. This atypical restaurant, housed in a former vaulted stone cellar, subtly blends Ajaccio’s history with local gastronomy. As you savor Corsican specialties, you’ll also be able to discover bits of Napoleonic history on screens. Its ideal downtown location, close to the Maison Bonaparte, makes it a must-see on your tour in the footsteps of the emperor!
>> Book your ticket for the Grotte Napoléon <<
Search the city for statues of Napoleon
At the top of Place Foch, a white marble statue of Napoleon faces the sea. At its feet, you’ll see a fountain with 4 granite lions guarding the surrounding area. A second statue of the emperor, this time on horseback, sits proudly in the center of Place de Gaulle. Finally, a monument to Napoleon dominates the Place d’Austerlitz in all its splendor. The town of Ajaccio invariably brings back memories of him!
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.
Alternative 4 – original activities
Want to explore other facets of Ajaccio? Here are 3 suggestions for original activities:
Discover the Citadelle Miollis
Take a detour to the Citadelle Miollis! This emblematic fortress majestically overlooks the Gulf of Ajaccio. We were won over by its transformation into a cultural and artistic venue, with its guinguette and artisan boutiques giving it a new lease of life. The atmosphere is particularly convivial. It’s a great place to take a break and pick up some great local souvenirs! The site also offers cultural activities and events.
Going to a soccer match
For soccer fans, what could be better than attending an ACA match? AC Ajaccio frequently plays at the Stade François Coty outside Ajaccio city center. Don’t miss the chance to witness a unique sporting event in Corsica! Visit their official website here to plan your visit and watch a match live.
Visit a cutlery factory
During your stay in Ajaccio, we recommend a visit to a cutlery factory. Knives are part of the know-how of Corsican craftsmen and enjoy a solid reputation. L’Atelier du Couteau is located near Place Foch and offers unique knives with a lifetime guarantee, as well as other handcrafted items.
USE OUR GUIDE TO PLAN A
DREAM TRIP TO Corsica
All the information you need for your trip:
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- 130+ pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 220 photos to help you choose
What you need to know for your weekend in Ajaccio
To make the most of your weekend in Ajaccio, here’s the essential information you need to know:
The weather in Ajaccio
Ajaccio enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, sunny summers, with high temperatures in July and August. Winters are relatively mild. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. These 2 seasons are ideal for outdoor activities. The resort enjoys plenty of sunshine all year round, making it a popular destination whatever the season.
Summer tourist numbers
Ajaccio attracts a growing number of visitors, particularly during the summer months. We note that this influx can cause traffic jams, as the city retains a modest size despite its popularity. You’ll have to contend with the many ferries that dock regularly, contributing to the sometimes excessive hustle and bustle of the port and city center during the high season.
Adapt your itinerary when it rains
In case of rain, don’t panic! The town offers a wide range of sheltered activities. The Palais Fesch and its Musée des Beaux-Arts will easily keep you busy for several hours with their rich collections of Italian and Corsican art. The Maison Bonaparte, the historic residence of the imperial family, plunges you into French history through its rooms and exhibitions. Ajaccio Cathedral, with its remarkable architecture, is also well worth a visit. These are just some of the options available.
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