Bastia Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Essential Digital Tools

Mobile Applications

Google Maps / Apple Maps
Navigation, points of interest, public transport routes. Download offline maps.
Google Translate
Quick translations for words and menus. Download French pack offline.
DeepL Translator
Another excellent translation app, accurate for European languages.
ViaBastia
Check if local bus service has an app for real-time schedules.
Ferry Company Apps
Manage bookings and schedules for your chosen company.

Valuable Online Portals

Office de Tourisme de Bastia
Official tourist office (bastia-tourisme.corsica) for local information, events.
Visit Corsica
Official Corsica tourism (visit-corsica.com) for broader island information.
SNCF Connect
For train schedules across Corsica (sncf-connect.com). Scenic, but slower.
Airport Website
Bastia – Poretta Airport (bastia.aeroport.fr) for flight info and transfers.
Ferry Company Websites
Corsica Ferries, Moby Lines, and La Méridionale for schedules, bookings.

Printed & Cultural Insights

Recommended Guidebooks

Michelin Green Guide Corsica delivers detailed historical and practical advice for the entire island, including Bastia.

Find Guidebooks

Local Publications

Upon arrival, acquire free local tourist brochures or magazines. These often list event listings, maps, and practical information.

Practical Readiness

Personal Safety Tips

Stay aware of your surroundings.
For lost documents, report to police immediately.
Obtain a police report for lost items.
Contact your embassy for travel document assistance.

Insider Knowledge

Corsicans are proud of their identity and culture.
Many locals speak Corsican in addition to French.
Avoid loud behavior in public spaces.
Phrases like "Parlez-vous corse?" impress locals.

Common Travel Learnings

Getting Around

Rely on ViaBastia for city transport.
Walk whenever possible in the compact city center.
Airport bus provides direct and efficient service.
Taxis offer a faster, door-to-door option.

Dining & Local Scene

Look for "Formule Midi" for lunch value.
Some bars carry happy hour specials.
Visit Old Port early for a calm atmosphere.
Old Port buzzes in the evening.

Staying Connected

Consider apartments with kitchen facilities.
Look for B&Bs slightly outside city center.
Download offline maps for navigation.
Charge all electronics and Portable power banks.

Emergency & Medical Information

Immediate Assistance Information

Emergency Numbers

European Emergency Number: 112
Police (Police Nationale): 17
Fire Department (Sapeurs-Pompiers): 18
Medical Emergency (SAMU): 15

Hospital Locations

Centre Hospitalier de Bastia is the main hospital.
Find its address and contacts online.
Ask at your accommodation for directions.
The tourist office can also help with details.

Lost Documents

Report lost passport/ID immediately to local police.
Obtain a police report from the police Nationale.
Contact your embassy for travel document assistance.
Most embassies are in Paris or Marseille.

Health Essentials

First Aid & Medications

Prepare a Basic first-aid kit.
Ensure sufficient prescription medications.
Carry a doctor's note for prescriptions.

Financial Awareness

Inform your bank of travel plans.
This prevents card issues.
Avoid potential fraud alerts.

Security & Safety

Natural Disaster Steps

Follow instructions from local authorities.
Stay updated via local news channels.
Listen to official emergency broadcasts.

Safety Reminder

Stay aware of your surroundings.
Exercise caution, especially at night.
Your personal safety carries weight.

Planning Details

Essential Pre-Bookings

Flights and ferries, especially with a vehicle.
Accommodation, especially during high season.
Rental car, if needed for exploration.
Specific tours or activities with limited capacity.
Consider comprehensive travel insurance like World Nomads.

Home Preparations

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Organize pet care before departure.
Secure your home: lock windows and doors.
Set alarms if applicable.
Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.

Arrival & Departure Flow

Arrival Steps

Clear immigration and customs at your first Schengen Area entry point. Collect luggage promptly.

Currency & Local SIM

Withdraw Euros from an ATM upon arrival. Avoid airport currency exchange. Consider a local SIM card.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Bastia – Poretta Airport or ferry terminal early. Allow 2-3 hours for international, 1.5-2 for domestic.

Important Travel Advice

Check passport validity. Ensure it remains valid for at least three months beyond your intended return from the Schengen Area. Apply for a Schengen visa if needed.

Further Exploration & Inspiration

Deepening Your Experience

Visual & Auditory Journeys

Documentaries and Films
Seek documentaries and films about Corsica's history and landscapes.
Corsican Polyphonic Singing
Explore by groups like I Muvrini or A Filetta.
Music and Art
Music and art deliver a rich pre-trip experience.

Community & Learning

Online Communities
Join travel forums for specific questions and shared experiences.
Language Learning
Utilize apps like Duolingo or Babbel for basic French.
Local Appreciation
Even a small effort in language makes a large difference.

Expanding Horizons

Regional Combinations

Combine Bastia with Ajaccio, Porto-Vecchio, or Bonifacio. Explore the island capital and stunning southern beaches.

Island Road Trip

Consider a comprehensive road trip linking major towns with charming inland villages and natural parks.

International Links

Visit mainland France, easily accessible by ferry or flight. Take a ferry from Bonifacio to Santa Teresa Gallura in Sardinia, Italy.

Return Trip Ideas

Seasonal Charms

Return to Bastia in a different season.
Spring brings wildflowers and ideal hiking weather.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and local festivals.
Winter delivers a quieter, authentic local experience.

Focused Exploration

Focus on specific interests for a return visit.
A dedicated hiking trip to the natural parks.
A culinary tour of the island.
A deep dive into Corsican history.

Positive Contributions

Environmental Responsibility

Respect protected areas: stay on marked trails.
Do not disturb wildlife and adhere to regulations.
Conserve water, especially during dry summer months.
Dispose of waste properly; utilize recycling bins.

Supporting Locals

Support the local economy by patronizing local businesses.
Choose locally owned restaurants, shops, and tour operators.
Your travel dollars directly benefit the community.
This helps sustain traditional livelihoods.

Cultural Respect

Engage respectfully with the local culture. Learning basic French phrases and seeking permission when photographing people demonstrate your respect and appreciation for Corsican traditions.

Bastia Travel Resources