Getting Around Ajaccio. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transit Overview

The TCA operates Ajaccio's bus system. This network covers the city center and surrounding neighborhoods, beaches, and the airport. Buses are an economical way to travel within the urban area.

The main bus hub is Place Charles de Gaulle, also known as Place du Diamant. Many bus lines originate or pass through this central square. Route maps are at major bus stops, the TCA office, and online.

Ticketing & Fares

Single Ticket: Purchase from driver, ~€1.50.
Carnet of 10 Tickets: Available at tabacs and TCA offices, slight discount.
Day Pass: 24-hour unlimited travel.
Validation: Validate ticket immediately upon boarding.

Hours of Operation

Buses generally operate from early morning (~6:00 AM) until late evening (~9:00 PM-10:00 PM). Service is reduced on Sundays and public holidays.

Frequency

Frequency varies by line. Main lines operate every 15-30 minutes during peak times. Less popular routes or off-peak services may have longer intervals.

Accessibility

Newer buses are typically accessible for passengers with reduced mobility (ramps). Older buses may have limitations. Contact TCA for specific route accessibility.

Navigating Efficiently

Digital Tools

Use a digital map app (like Google Maps) with public transport overlays for real-time bus locations and arrival estimates.
Purchase tickets in advance (e.g., a carnet) if you plan multiple journeys to save time at boarding.
Check the bus schedule for your specific route, especially for evening or Sunday travel.

Walking & Choices

Walking is often the fastest way to explore the Old Town.
Buses are good for longer distances, like to the airport or specific beaches.
Consider your destination when choosing between walking and bus transport.

Public Transport Tip

Buy a Carnet

If using buses often, buy a "carnet" of 10 tickets from a tabac.

Save Per Ride

This saves money per ride compared to buying single tickets from the driver.

Where to Buy

Tabacs are tobacco shops, often marked with a red diamond sign.

Online Info

Check TCA website for current ticket prices and options.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis offer a convenient, on-demand transport option in Ajaccio, specifically when public buses are less frequent or for direct transfers. Ride-sharing services are not a common option here.

Licensed Taxis

Licensed taxis are usually white cars with a "Taxi" sign on the roof and a meter inside.
You can hail a taxi on the street if its roof light is green, indicating availability.
Designated taxi stands are at Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, the train station, and Place Charles de Gaulle.
Book a taxi by calling a local taxi company. This is wise for early morning departures or areas without a stand.

Fares & Payment

Fares are regulated and calculated by the meter. Rates are higher at night (7 PM-7 AM), on Sundays, and public holidays.
Airport to city center: typically €20 to €30.
Within city center: short rides usually €8-€15.
Most taxis accept cash. Many also accept major credit cards, but confirm with the driver before starting.

Safety & Ride-Sharing

Licensed taxis are generally safe and regulated. Always use a clearly marked, licensed taxi.
Confirm the fare or ask for a rough estimate for longer journeys before setting off.
For safety, avoid unmarked vehicles offering rides.

Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available or consistently operational in Ajaccio or elsewhere in Corsica.
Do not rely on these services for your transportation needs.
Licensed taxis remain the main and most reliable on-demand private transport option.

Taxi Tip

Meter Use

When taking a taxi, confirm the driver uses the meter.

Estimate Fares

For longer trips, asking for an estimated fare range is wise.

Payment Check

Confirm payment methods before starting your journey, especially for cards.

Rental Options

Options range from cars to scooters and bicycles.

Car Rental

Requirements: Valid driver's license, IDP (non-EU), passport, major credit card (not debit) for deposit.
Major Companies: Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise (at airport & city center). Local Corsican agencies also operate.
Booking: Book in advance, especially during peak season (June-August), for better rates and availability.
Driving Laws: Drive on the right. Speed limits: 50 km/h urban, 80 km/h rural. Seatbelts mandatory. Strict drunk driving laws.

Other Rentals

Motorcycle & Scooter: Available from specialized shops. Scooters are popular for coastal roads and parking.
Bicycle: Several shops offer rentals, including electric bikes (E-bikes) and mountain bikes. E-bikes are highly recommended for hills.
Road Conditions: Generally good, but often narrow, winding, mountainous. Expect slow speeds, sharp turns, steep gradients.
Parking: Challenging in central Ajaccio, especially peak season. Look for "Payant" (paid) or public garages.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

The Old Town with its narrow, winding streets is perfect for walking. The waterfront promenade is also a pleasant stroll. Places Foch, Charles de Gaulle are very pedestrian-friendly.

Explore historical sites, shops, restaurants on foot.

Walking Routes

Sections of the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path) near Ajaccio offer stunning scenic walks toward Pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires Islands.

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Gulf of Ajaccio and secluded coves.

Guided Tours

Local companies offer guided walking tours of Ajaccio's Old Town, focusing on Napoleon's history, architecture, or culinary scene.

Self-guided options with free maps from the Tourist Office are also good.

Cycling & Safety

Bicycle Infrastructure

Limited dedicated bicycle lanes within the city center. Cycling on main roads can be challenging due to traffic and hilly terrain.
The Route des Sanguinaires is scenic for cycling but can be busy with cars, especially in summer.
Opportunities for mountain biking exist in the Gravona valley or other forested areas outside the city.

Safety Measures

Always wear a Helmet. Be visible, especially during dusk or dawn.
Exercise caution on busy roads and be aware of car traffic.
Generally, all areas are safe for pedestrians and cyclists, but caution on busy roads without sidewalks is wise.

Car Rental Tip

Obtain full insurance coverage for your rental car.
Corsica's winding roads and local driving habits mean minor accidents can happen.
Driving defensively is a good approach.

Consider a Small umbrella or Lightweight rain jacket.
A book or e-reader for downtime is always a good idea.
An RFID blocking wallet protects cards from skimming.

Walking & Cycling Tip

Explore Ajaccio's Old Town on foot. Wear comfortable shoes, as the narrow, often cobbled streets are best navigated without a car.

Getting Around Ajaccio