Corsica, France
Explore Ajaccio's rich history and prominent sites, from Napoleon's birthplace to ancient fortresses and squares.
These landmarks offer a direct connection to the city's past and spectacular views of its surroundings.
Place Foch is excellent for people-watching, often hosts markets, and is a starting point for tours.
Smaller art galleries in the Old Town feature works by local Corsican artists, displaying contemporary and traditional styles.
Major museums frequently host temporary exhibitions focusing on artists, historical periods, or cultural themes.
Part of the Fesch Museum complex, serving as the burial place for several Bonaparte family members.
Many museums close on Tuesdays. Confirm before you plan your visit to avoid disappointment.
Local listings for performances during your visit, including Corsican polyphonic singing.
Ajaccio and its surroundings are rich with sites that trace Corsica's long and complex history.
Located an hour south of Ajaccio, featuring impressive menhirs and statue-menhirs, a glimpse into Corsica's ancient past. Allow 2-3 hours. Book a tour.
A historical district with narrow, winding streets, colorful facades, and Genoese architecture. Explore Rue Fesch and Rue Bonaparte.
Part of the Fesch Museum, it is the burial place for several members of the Bonaparte family, a somber, reflective space.
Ajaccio's main cathedral, a Baroque religious site and historical landmark tied to Napoleon's baptism.
A charming church near the port, dedicated to Saint Erasmus, the patron saint of sailors, showing maritime heritage.
Large monument to Napoleon with a bronze statue, set above a natural grotto. Panoramic views of Ajaccio and the gulf.
Visit Filitosa in the morning to avoid the midday sun, as the site is open-air. Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring the archaeological grounds.
The monument at Place Austerlitz offers expansive views of Ajaccio and the gulf, a sense of Napoleon's legacy here and good for photography.
The Old Town's narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings blend historical charm with modern shops and cafes for exploration.
Ajaccio holds several lesser-known spots that share unique charm and local insight.
Ajaccio's appeal reaches beyond its historical core to stunning natural landscapes.
Parc des Milelli, a historic olive grove of the Bonaparte family, has walking paths and peaceful city views.
Sanguinaires Islands, a rocky archipelago with red granite rocks that glow at sunset. Pointe de la Parata offers panoramic views of the islands.
The Sanguinaires Islands are a bird sanctuary. Boat tours to Scandola Nature Reserve view diverse marine life and seabirds.
Plage de Saint-François is Ajaccio's city beach, below the Citadel. Plage de Ricanto is a larger beach near the airport, popular with families.
Along Route des Sanguinaires, smaller coves and beaches like Barbicaja and Marinella offer clear waters and secluded spots.
About a 45-minute drive inland, this artificial reservoir in the mountains is popular for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Plan a sunset visit to Pointe de la Parata to watch the sun set over the Sanguinaires Islands. It is a memorable experience.
Walk through the Cimetière Marin for stunning sea views and a peaceful, reflective atmosphere. It is an unique and often overlooked spot.
Explore less-frequented parts of the Sentier des Douaniers for secluded coves and hidden viewpoints.
Consider exploring some of the small villages in the Gravona Valley just inland from Ajaccio.
Beyond the popular landmarks, Ajaccio holds several lesser-known spots that offer unique charm and local insight.
Explore less-frequented parts of the Sentier des Douaniers near Ajaccio for secluded coves and peaceful hiking. Ask locals for quieter stretches.
The Cimetière Marin offers serene walks among ornate tombs and stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Ajaccio, a quiet reflective space.
Consider exploring small villages in the Gravona Valley inland from Ajaccio for traditional Corsican rural life, churches, and local eateries.
Top spot for iconic sunset photos with the red rocks of the Sanguinaires Islands silhouetted against the colorful sky.
Monument to Napoleon with sweeping views of Ajaccio's cityscape and the gulf, suitable for wide-angle shots.
Narrow, pastel-colored streets with laundry and potted plants, endless opportunities for charming street photography and architectural details.
