Where to stay in Corsica to make the most of the island?
There are options for everyone with seaside resorts, cities, charming villages or off the beaten track places…
Here is our guide with the best places to stay in Corsica, including:
- the best towns and destinations to go to,
- map for orientation,
- the best hotels, and other accommodations where to sleep in Corsica,
- alternative accommodations…
We hope to help you find the pearl for your dream vacation!
We create this guide completely independently, based on our research and experience. None of the hotels paid to be included. We visit anonymously and pay in full, for a real experience.
Where to stay in Corsica – summary + map
If you don’t want to read the whole article describing all the best places to stay in Corsica, here are our simple answers.
Where to stay in Corsica – Map
To help you find your way, here is a map that will help you locate all the cities selected in our list below.
Note that the numbers do not indicate a preference, they are just numbered to better navigate this article.
We think that the whole island is worth visiting and that a big road trip around the island is a fantastic adventure.
However, not everyone wants to drive during their vacations… Here are some tips to help you choose where to go:
Where to stay in Corsica for a beach vacation
Propriano (South West) – see paragraph 10 of this article
Easy access to many beautiful beaches.
see the best rated accommodations
L’Île-Rousse (North-West) – see paragraph 4
Beach in the city and wilder options around
see the best rated accommodations
Santa Giulia (South) – see paragraph 9
One of the largest sandy beaches
see the best rated accommodations
Porticcio area (South of Ajaccio) – see paragraph 11
Lots of small and long sandy beaches with rock formations.
see the best rated accommodations
Where to stay in Corsica for couples
Corsica is beautiful. You can find great places to stay as a couple, romantic areas all around Corsica.
However, we think that the most romantic places are :
Bonifacio – see paragraph 5
With its impressive cliffs, its citadel and its unforgettable sunsets.
see the best rated accommodations
L’Île-Rousse – see paragraph 4
The charm of the city, the sweetness of life, the beach…
see the best rated accommodations
Where to sleep in Corsica for hiking
Corte – see paragraph 14
In the heart of the island, surrounded by the highest peaks.
see hotel and rental offers
Saint-Florent – see paragraph 7
With an easy access to the desert of Agraites, the Cap Corse and the mountains north of Corte.
see the best rated accommodations
Where to stay in Corsica without a car
If you are staying for more than a few days, we really recommend renting a car. However, if you still want a car-free vacation, our recommendations are:
Porticcio – see paragraph 11
Very close to Ajaccio you have access to the beach and many activities are proposed from Porticcio (boat tour, canyoning …)
see the best rated accommodations
Santa Giulia – see paragraph 9
Only if you want to stay at the beach all the time – In southern Corsica, you can fly to Figari, take a cab to your accommodation right next to the beach and just enjoy the crystal clear water and beach activities.
see the best rated accommodations
Calvi – see paragraph 3
You can take a flight to Calvi airport (some flights from French cities and some European cities) or the ferry to Ile-Rousse then the train. You can enjoy the beach in the middle of the city. In addition, there are good boat trips to Scandola and the train along the coast that stops at many beaches to L’Ile-Rousse.
see the best rated accommodations
But frankly, to get the most out of Corsica, we recommend renting a car. See all our tips.
Where to stay in Corsica with your family
You can find excellent places to stay with your family all around Corsica. However, for an easygoing style of vacation full of activities for all ages, our favorites are:
Saint-Florent – see paragraph 7
Easy access to city, beaches, villages, 4WD, boat…
see the best rated accommodations
Porto-Vecchio – see paragraph 6
With beaches, theme parks and quick access to the mountains;
see the best rated accommodations
Where to go in Corsica for short stays (3 or 4 days)
If you have to see only a small part of Corsica, you might as well see the most spectacular part. The following 2 places have the most amazing landscapes you can find on the island, in our opinion:
Piana – see paragraph 8
With its pink cliffs, its rock formations and the Scandola reserve.
See the best rated accommodations
Bonifacio – see paragraph 5
With its impressive cliffs, its citadel and its unforgettable sunsets.
see the best rated accommodations
And see our examples of itineraries 3 days in Corsica and 4 or 5 days in Corsica.
Where to stay in Corsica as a base for exploration
You can’t find a base to explore the whole island, it’s too big. No way.
To explore the 3 most beautiful parts of Corsica, we recommend
Calvi – see paragraph 3
To explore the west coast: a lot of things to see around + beach + big enough city
see the best rated accommodations
Porto-Vecchio – see paragraph 6
To explore the south: with beaches, villages, theme parks and quick access to the mountains.
see the best rated accommodations
Saint-Florent – see paragraph 7
To explore the North: easy access to Bastia, to the Corsican Cape, to the Balagne, to the Agriates desert…
see the best rated accommodations
Tips for hotels and accommodation in Corsica
Before you start looking for a place to stay, here are some tips to keep in mind when selecting a place to stay:
- Early – Book early for the summer – It is a very popular destination, many French people go there.
- Beach – Accommodations near the beach are rarely on the beach. There are only a few and they are not the best. The best accommodations are often within 5 minutes walk of the beach. See my section below
- Bungalows – Save money by staying in camping bungalows (but watch out for cleaning costs) – Outside the summer months, you can stay in these bungalows even for just one night (but this may not be possible in summer).
- Pools – The pools are not always heated, depending on the hotel.
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.
Where to sleep in Corsica in 2023 : hotels, resorts…
You can also choose where to stay in Corsica, depending on your hotel preferences.
Our top 5 – the best luxury hotels and resorts in Corsica
- Casa Paradisu
In L’Ile-Rousse, a 5 star hotel with a dream pool.
See photos and availability - Hotel & Spa Version Maquis Citadelle
In Bonifacio, with a peaceful atmosphere
See photos and availability - Grand Hotel of Cala Rossa & Spa Nucca
Just on the beach of Porto-Vecchio.
see pictures and availability - Hotel La Villa Calvi
With beautiful views of the citadel
See photos and availability - Hotel Les Bergeries de Palombaggia
Located near the most famous beach of the island, it offers splendid views, a beautiful pool and a lot of charm.
See photos and availability
See our article on the best luxury hotels in Corsica.
Best beach hotels in Corsica – suggestions
Below is a selection of beach hotels and accommodations in Corsica to consider:
- Complete offer
One of our favorite hotels is the Hotel Mariosa in Porto-Vecchio, with its private square, beautiful pool and charming design.
See photos and availability - Luxury Apartment
Residence Santa Giulia Palace offers splendid views of Santa Giulia beach and 3 pools – plenty of choice if you like to soak in the water.
See photos and availability - Hotel
Hotel le Pinarello – Right next to the beach in the bay of Piranellu
See photos and availability - Camping
In Calvi, you can stay in campsites that are only 3 minutes walk from the beach and shaded in the pine forest. From there, you can walk to Calvi and its Citadel along the beach.
Discover the Camping la Pinède - Sheds
We love the cabin options for being close to nature – in Portigliolo there are the Uliventi cabins near the beach with a restaurant offering a perfect view! The campsite is environmentally friendly and the cabins are very large.
See photos and availability
Our top 5 – best charming hotels in Corsica
- Hotel Cala di Greco
In Bonifacio, luxury atmosphere and small store
See photos and availability - Hotel La Dimora
Between Bastia and Saint-Florent
See photos and availability - Hotel Casa Paradisu
A calm, relaxing garden in L’Île-Rousse
See photos and availability - Hotel U Palazzu Serenu
In the mountains above Saint-Florent, for peace, quiet and great views.
See photos and availability - Hotel A Cheda
In Bonifacio with beautiful stones and an exceptional restaurant
See photos and availability
See our article on Corsica’s most beautiful hotels.
Our top 5 – unique accommodations in Corsica
- Micalona Tower
All around Corsica, there are defense towers. Most of them are protected, they are historical monuments.
But you can stay in this one, not far from Propriano!
See photos and availability - Sottu E Stelle
Geodesic dome with mountain view, in the mountains near Ajaccio
See photos and availability - Fianca of Osso Camponoro
Sleep under the stars!
See photos and availability - Cocoon village
In Porto-Vecchio, stand between the rocks and the endless views
See photos and availability - Spend the night on a boat, it is possible in several ports around Corsica. See options
New hotels in Corsica – open in 2022 / 2023
- Santa Maria Residence
In L’Ile-Rousse, opened in July 2022 – with family rooms
See photos and availability - Casa Paradisu
In L’Ile-Rousse, open in June 2022 – 5 star hotel with dream pool
See photos and availability - Continental Hotel
In Bastia, open in June 2022 – 3 star hotel in the heart of the city
See photos and availability - Hotel Residence a torra
In Vescovato (South of Bastia), opened in February 2022 – for a cool vacation
See photos and availability - And also, Boutique Hotel & Spa Son De Mar (June 2022), Hotel Kasano (April 2022)…
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!
Location 1 – Where to stay in Ajaccio
Why stay in Ajaccio
To be honest, Ajaccio is really not our favorite city. Tall buildings everywhere…
But the old center has charm, and it is the main city of Corsica with some famous museums.
It is worth a stay of a few nights, if you have the time.
Nearby attractions
- The museums
- The market
- The Parata Tower
- Excursion by boat to the Sanguinaires islands.
- See our article on what to do in Ajaccio
Where to sleep in Ajaccio – accommodation suggestions
We recommend staying in the old town if you can, so you can walk everywhere.
Otherwise, many rentals are located on the hillside or along the sea. They offer great views, but to return after a long day of walking, you will have to take a cab.
- Hotel San Carlu city side
At the Hotel San Carlu, the rooms are small but full of character, putting you right in the heart of the city, right next to the citadel. And when you go up to the bar, you discover an exceptional panoramic view of Ajaccio Bay and the surrounding mountains!
– see pictures and availability - Hôtel Les Mouettes near the beach, close to town
This hotel really is the ideal mix: it’s on the seafront, with access to a small beach, it has an excellent restaurant and (unlike other seaside hotels) you can easily walk to the center of Ajaccio.
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Dolce Vita beach side
A little further west of the center of Ajaccio, we were charmed by the ambience of the Dolce Vita hotel and its swimming pool with a magnificent view over the bay of Ajaccio.
– see pictures and availability - Suite Home Hotel, Porticcio side
If you want to stay close to Ajaccio but still have easy access to a large sandy beach, go to Porticcio (with its boat shuttle to Ajaccio).
– see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Ajaccio
Location 2 – Where to stay in Bastia
Why stay in Bastia
Bastia is the second largest city in Corsica.
It is at the foot of the Cap Corseand therefore ideal to explore it.
And the center around the port has a lot of character and charm.
Nearby attractions
- The old center
- The Citadel and Governors’ Palace
- The Cap Corse with the mountains that plunge into the sea
- Saint-Florent is not far, with the access to the desert of Agriates
- The vineyards of Patrimonio
- …
- See our article on what to do in Bastia
Where to sleep in Bastia – accommodation suggestions
- Hotel Des Gouverneurs
With our suite at the corner of the hotel, our stay at the Hôtel des Gouverneurs was unforgettable. Located in the citadel, we had an unobstructed view of Bastia’s marina.
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Alivi
There’s no direct beach access to Bastia, but a little to the north, less than a 10-minute drive from the center, you’ll find the Hotel Alivi. The rooms and pool offer beautiful sea views and you can walk straight down to a beach.
– see pictures and availability - Hotel Monsieur Miot
If you like original decor and boutique hotels on a human scale in the heart of downtown, this is the right option for you!
– see pictures and availability - Apartment rental in Citadel – A Casa Divina with a large terrace
– see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Bastia
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
Location 3 – Where to stay in Calvi
Why stay in Calvi
Calvi is an ideal place to stay.
It has a large beach, many restaurants on the waterfront, a citadel to visit and so many other things to do…
It is also well located for visiting the Central West Coast.
Nearby attractions
- All the region of Balagne with the villages and the beaches
- The Citadel
- L’Île-Rousse
- The cliffs of Piana and the Scandola reserve (2 hours away)
- See more ideas
Best places to stay in Calvi – accommodation suggestions
- Hotel Onda
Onda On the beach side, we found the decoration of the Onda hotel very successful. It’s warm, modern and soothing. A great experience!
see pictures and availability - Kasano Hotel
Right next to the citadel, this host and his artwork offered us an elegant and inspiring experience, and we think you’ll love it too.
see pictures and availability - Luxury
Hotel La Villa Calvi with beautiful perspective effects
see prices, pictures and availability - Camping
Camping La Pinède is just a few minutes walk from the beach.
They have small, clean and affordable bungalows.
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Calvi
Location 4 – Where to stay in Ile-Rousse
Why stay in Ile-Rousse
Île-Rousse is famous for its island with colored rocks that become orange-red at sunset. But it also has many advantages:
- It is a charming city with all the infrastructures
- It is easy to walk around
- There is a beach in the city
- There are many places to visit in less than 2 hours
Nearby attractions
- The islands and downtown
- Calvi and its Citadel
- The old villages of Balagne
- Saint-Florent is not far, with the access to the desert of Agriates
- The cliffs of Piana and the Scandola reserve (2h30 away)
- For more information, see our guide to visit Ile-Rousse
Where to sleep in Ile-Rousse – accommodation suggestions
- Downtown: Hotel Rocabella
Close to the historic heart of the town, we had an excellent stay at the Hotel Rocabella, especially when we took advantage of the jacuzzi in our sea-view suite… It felt great after a day exploring the villages of Balagne!
see pictures and availability - Beach side: Hôtel Liberata
It’s hard not to fall in love with this charming hotel: the colors, the decor and, what’s more, the sea views from the balcony.
And to cool off, we could choose between the pool or the beach, just 2 steps from the hotel!
see pictures and availability - Luxury
Casa Paradisu – 5 star hotel with dream pool
See photos and availability - Good value for money
The Casa Rossa hotel has a lot of charm. It is not in the center, but not far. The rooms are spacious with a dining area with kitchenette.
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in L’Île-Rousse
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Location 5 – Where to stay in Bonifacio
Why stay in Bonifacio
Bonifacio is one of the most beautiful places I have had the chance to see during my travels.
The whole region is in the process of being classified as a Unesco heritage site.
Imagine: the old medieval town is perched on white limestone cliffs over 70m high!
Nearby attractions:
- Take the famous one-hour boat tour to see the cliffs and how the city is suspended above the water.
- Go down the King of Aragon’s staircase that crosses the cliffs (be careful, it is 189 steep steps)
- Walk on the cliffs for great views – there is a beautiful walk from the old town along the cliffs to Capo Pertusato
- Explore the citadel and the marine cemetery
- Explore the surrounding coastline, including the beautiful beaches.
- Learn more in our guide to visit Bonifacio.
Where to sleep in Bonifacio – accommodation suggestions
- With a breathtaking view
Hotel Cala di Greco is one of our favorite hotels in Corsica, with a design that blends in with nature and exceptional views over Bonifacio.
See photos and availability - Above the rest
At Hotel Santateresa, you are at the end of the peninsula with free parking included, modern rooms and a fantastic staff! A superb view from above on the citadel and the cliffs!
See photos and availability - Near the marina
The Solemare hotel with its swimming pool facing the citadel wall.
see prices, pictures and availability - Old town
Another option inside the old town is the Hotel Genovese with a cliff top location and lots of charm.
see pictures and availability - Luxury
For a 5-star stay not far from the marina, check out the spacious and beautiful design of the Version Maquis Citadelle hotel.
see pictures and availability - Camping
the nearest camping is L’Araguina – they also rent small lodges
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Bonifacio
Location 6 – Where to stay in Porto-Vecchio
Why stay in Porto-Vecchio
The main city of South Corsica is Porto-Vecchio.
It’s a great town with everything you could need and a short drive to the most beautiful beaches of Corsica: Palombaggia, Tamaricciu…
Nearby attractions
- Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the cafes/restaurants along the marina.
- Climb the hill, pass the Genoese gate and explore the narrow streets of the Citadel with its unique stores and the charming St. John the Baptist church. You can visit the Bastion and, from there, have a breathtaking view of the gulf.
- By car – in less than 2 hours, you can discover villages, gorges, mountains, prehistoric sites…
- Learn more in our guide to visit Porto-Vecchio
Where to sleep in Porto-Vecchio – accommodation suggestions
- Hotel Restaurant Casa Santini, right on the water
see pictures and availability - Luxury in the North Bay
A little far from its center, the Grand Hotel de la Cala Rossa & Spa Nucca, right on the beach
see pictures and availability - Hotel Mariosa
The most complete with place, pool and restaurant.
see photos and availability - Residence with all services
At the Residence U Pirellu, we enjoy spacious villas, beautiful views of the maquis and the sea. There is a heated swimming pool and all activities. It is only 10min from Palombaggia and 10min from Porto-Vecchio.
see pictures and availability - Camping bungalows
For those who are looking for the camping atmosphere but with a little more comfort, consider the Asphodele bungalows.
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Porto-Vecchio
PLAN YOUR TRIP TO Corsica
Inspiration destinations
Best of
Practice
Location 7 – Where to stay in Saint-Florent / Patrimonio
Why stay in Saint-Florent
It has become a popular seaside resort but has kept all the charm of the old town, which is a great combination!
It is protected by a 15th century citadel and surrounded by the sea and the mountains.
Moreover, you have vineyards nearby, in Patrimonio. What more do you want?
Nearby attractions
- Explore the citadel
- To go around the Cap Corse
- Go hiking in the Agriates Desert
- Enjoy the vineyards of Patrimonio
- Learn more in our article on Saint-Florent
Where to sleep in Saint-Florent and Patrimonio – accommodation suggestions
In Saint-Florent, you can be close to the beach while staying in Patrimonio allows you to enjoy a more tranquil experience in the vineyards.
- Hotel La Roya
Around Saint-Florent town center, this is the hotel with the most beautiful architecture, plus it has a large outdoor area and access to the sandy beach of La Roya. We loved the views over the historic heart of Saint-Florent and the Cap Corse mountains behind.
see pictures and availability - Hotel Tetolla
Most hotels are located along the beach to the north of the town center. There are quite a few 3-star hotels. We prefer the Hotel Tettola, with its unobstructed views, beachside pool and excellent breakfast with homemade cakes.
see pictures and availability - Hotel La Dimora, in the mountains
But our biggest favorites are the hotels in the mountains above Saint-Florent. The village of Oletta is just a 15-minute drive away (fairly easy road). Here, for example, you’ll find the Hotel La Dimora, one of the most charming we’ve tested in Corsica. We loved the natural setting with its stones and trees, and the serenity of the place.
see pictures and availability - In the vineyards
At the Lustincone Inn in Patrimonio we loved the charm of the rooms, the delicious breakfast and the fantastic views from the terrace and pool!
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Saint-Florent
Location 8 – Where to stay in Piana / Porto Ota
Why stay in Piana
The Gulf of Porto-Ota and Piana are one of the most famous regions of Corsica.
This is due to the impressive pink cliffs that fall into the sea. They are called calanques de Piana.
It is a truly magical place that deserves at least a one night stay.
Nearby attractions
- Take a boat trip to see the calanques de Piana
- Hiking in the calanques de Piana
- Take a boat trip to see the nature reserve of Scandola
- Go inland to the gorges and mountains
- Learn more in our article on the region
Where to sleep in Piana and Porto-Ota – accommodation suggestions
Piana is the largest village. It is located above sea level and offers incredible views.
Porto-Ota is the small hamlet at sea level from where the boat excursions leave.
- Hotel with view in Piana
Hotel Capo Rosso with a pool and views you will never forget
see pictures and availability - Hotel Scandola
Similarly, Hotel Scandola is nestled in the hills in the heart of the calanques de Piana.
From the room, we had a perfect view of the gulf and the Scandola reserve. And from the bar and breakfast terrace, we enjoyed the views over the village of Piana and the calanques.
See photos and availability - Waterfront in Porto Ota
The Capu Seninu apartments and their balconies with view (and private parking)
See photos and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers // or see our article on the best hotels in Piana
Do not make
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So our trip began with a “card blocked” call… Not funny at all!
Learn from our mistake, make a small VPN investment to surf without worry.
Location 9 – Where to stay in Santa Giulia
Why stay in Santa Giulia
Many of the famous beaches of South Corsica are not developed. They do not have accommodation near the beach.
In Santa Giulia you can stay close to the beach and the lagoon. Perfect to relax and enjoy the Corsican landscapes.
Nearby attractions
- The beach
- The lagoon
- Water sports
- The other famous beaches of the region: Palombaggia, Rondinara, Tamaricciu…
Where to sleep in Santa Giulia – accommodation suggestions
- 4 star resort
The Santa Giulia Palace offers beautiful views of Santa Giulia beach and 3 pools – plenty of choices if you like to soak in the water.
see pictures and availability - 4 star hotel
Hotel Alivi di Santa Giulia is smaller and offers an excellent breakfast.
see pictures and availability - Apartments in the beach house
Costa Nera Beach house is very close to the water with a modern design
see pictures and availability - Villa
For a whole house, see Vallia Les Hameaux Di Santa Giulia
see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers
Location 10 – Where to stay in Propriano
Why stay in Propriano and its surroundings
If you are looking for a relaxed beach vacation, the Propriano area is an excellent choice.
It is not far from the airport of Ajaccio.
The beaches are beautiful, but less known than those of South Corsica, so the atmosphere is less frenetic.
Nearby attractions
- Beaches
- Village of Sartene
- Historical towers
- Walking tour
Where to sleep in Propriano and its surroundings – accommodation suggestions
- Luxury: Hotel Marinca
The view from this hotel is one of the finest on the south coast, with the sparkling sea in front of you and the mountains behind. And we love being able to enjoy it from the room, the restaurant, the pools and the beach!
see pictures and availability - Apartment-hotel
At Residence & Hotel Aria Marina, you can enjoy convenient apartments not far from the beach
see pictures and availability - Hotel Bartaccia
A little up in the hills, Hotel Bartaccia offered us beautiful sea views from our room, as well as 2 pools to cool off in.
Plus, you’ll find one of Propriano’s best restaurants.
see pictures and availability - Unique
Micalona Genoese Tower where you can stay in one of the historical defense towers, not far from Propriano!
see pictures and availability - Seaside in Portoglio
U Liventi offers beautiful cabins, under the trees and near the beach. The site has a restaurant offering a perfect view of the wild beach
The campground is environmentally conscious, and the cabins are actually quite large. It’s really nice!
see pictures and availability
See the best deals on hotels and rentals // or see our article on the best hotels in Propriano
Places 10 to 15 – Other places to stay in Corsica
Location 11 – Where to stay in Porticcio
- Location
Just south of Ajaccio
Accessible by boat from Ajaccio - Why stay there
Many beautiful beaches in this region, very close to the big city of Ajaccio.
Very practical. - Lodging
For example, by the sea, Les Suites d’Agosta – see photos and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers
Location 12 – Where to stay in Macinaggio
- Location
At the northern end of the Cap Corse
From Bastia to Macinaggio = 1h drive - Why stay there
Away from it all, Macinaggio offers good restaurants, easy parking and access to the Sentier de Douaniers promenade. So you can settle in your room and go for a walk. - Activities to do
Enjoy the beach
Walk on the Customs Officers’ Paths
Explore the Cap Corse - Lodging
For example, in the hills behind Macinaggio for superb views of the bay, the Hotel Le Tomino – See photos and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers
Location 13 – Where to stay in Cargese
- Location
West coast, north of Ajaccio
On the road to Piana
Ajaccio to Cargèse = 1h10 drive - Why stay there – things to do
It’s one of those places where you can just relax, eat good food and enjoy the Corsican way of life.
From there you can visit Piana, go to the mountains and simply relax by the sea. - Hosting
You can find a lot of nice rentals (apartments and villas) like Casa Marina Cargèse – see pictures and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers
Location 14 – Where to stay in Corte
- Location
Corte is a big city with a lot of character. I love the view from the Belvedere, it’s one of the best on the island. - Why stay there – things to do
For the mountains and the more typical atmosphere of Corsica.
Don’t miss the climb to the Belvedere.
Ideal for hiking and to enjoy the most beautiful walks as the Restonica valley. - Hosting
For example, the superb Hotel Dominique Colonna – see photos and availability.
See the best hotel and rental offers
Location 15 – Where to stay in Sartene
- Location
South Corsica
Near Propriano, halfway between Bonifacio and Ajaccio - Why stay there – things to do
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.
You will find several views of the mountain and the city, charming streets and a photogenic church.
Find out more in our article on Sartène - Hosting
For example, the Best Western Plus San Damianu Hotel with its views of the valley – see photos and availability
See the best hotel and rental offers
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.
Where to go in Corsica – best destinations / regions
If you need more help deciding, here are some destination tips. Discover all our favorites in detail in our guide on where to go in Corsica.
1 – Where to stay in Cap Corse
The Cap Corse shelters high mountains which fall in the sea.
It is not very developed and more moody than the rest of the island.
- Before and after your tour of Cap Corseyou can stay either in Bastia on the east coast for a stay in town,
- or to Saint-Florent / Patrimonio on the west coast for a wine tour.
- To visit the Cap Corse(see our guide), we recommend to take 2 days and to spend the night in the north in Macinaggio.
2 – Where to stay in Balagne
Balagne is a famous region in the northwest of Corsica.
It offers a beautiful mix of beaches, historic towns and charming villages.
There are 2 main poles to stay in Balagne:
- Calvi – it is the biggest city of the region – it has a beach, a citadel and many activities.
- L’Île-Rousse is a small resort town with a beach and a large promenade to the island.
- Otherwise, if you want peace, quiet and history, you can stay in one of the many villages.
See our article on the best hotels in Balagne.
3 – Where to stay in the Corsican mountains
- Corte is the main town in the Corsican mountains and an excellent focal point for avid hikers.
- Otherwise, on the way to Ajaccio, you can stay near the famous Cascade des Anglais, which is part of the GR20 and is probably the most famous hike in Corsica.
4 – Where to stay in South West Corsica
For a peaceful vacation at the beach
- Propriano is the main town along the coast. There are excellent accommodation options
- If you want to experience the “real” Corsica, you can stay in Sartene which is considered the most Corsican of the Corsican cities.
5 – Where to stay in South Corsica
South Corsica is the most famous part of the island.
You will find the impressive cliffs of Bonifacio and the smooth beaches of Palombaggia, Tamaricciu, Santa Giulia and many others.
You will find a very large offer of accommodation:
- In Porto-Vecchio if you want an urban atmosphere and access to many restaurants
- In Bonifacio if you want to appreciate the history
- Near Palombaggia or Santa Giulia if you want a beach vacation
- Everywhere in nature. There are some great options!
See our article on where to stay in South Corsica.
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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
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.
Calvi or Porto-Vecchio
These are two totally different experiences. One in the North and the other in the South.
They are not easy to compare.
See our article Calvi vs Porto-Vecchio or our article North or South Corsica.
Are North Corsica and South Corsica better?
For beach vacations, South Corsica is often considered the best. But it can be very busy.
The North offers a good balance between beaches, culture and a quieter atmosphere.
Which part of Corsica has the best beaches?
The southern end of Corsica has the largest concentration of famous beaches: Tamaricciu, Palombaggia, Santa-Giulia, Rondinara…
See our article with the most beautiful beaches in Corsica.
How many days do you need in Corsica
For a road trip covering the whole island, you need at least 3 weeks.
To see all the highlights of the South and West, consider 10 days to 2 weeks.
However, you can easily book a week in one of the regions and focus on the best things to do around your location. You will not be disappointed.
Which is better, Sardinia or Corsica?
Again, it depends on the type of vacation you are looking for.
For a variety of landscapes, and raw nature, head to Corsica.
For well-developed seaside towns and more architectural/historical gems, go to Sardinia.
Is Corsica expensive to visit?
Corsica is part of France. It is flooded with French holidaymakers in July and August, and therefore becomes very expensive.
Outside of these months, you can find good deals, but prices remain at Western European levels.
