Corsica, France
Porto-Vecchio (approximately 25 km / 30-minute drive): This city is known for its stylish marina with yachts, lively nightlife, and close proximity to Corsica's famous beaches, including Palombaggia and Santa Giulia. The old town, set on a hill, features charming streets and views.
Transportation: Regular bus service travels between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. A short drive by rental car offers more flexibility.
Tour vs. Independent: Porto-Vecchio is simple to visit independently by car or bus. No specific organized tours are typically necessary.
Time Needed: A half-day to a full-day trip, depending on whether you combine it with beach time.
Sartène (approximately 50 km / 1-hour drive): This town is often called "the most Corsican of Corsican towns." Sartène is rich in history and tradition. Its granite houses, narrow cobbled streets, and rugged appearance reflect a long past. It presents a look into a traditional Corsican way of life.
Transportation: A rental car is the best way to reach Sartène, offering freedom to explore at your own pace. Public bus connections are limited.
Tour vs. Independent: Independent travel by car is suggested for the freedom to stop at viewpoints or small villages along the way.
Time Needed: A half-day trip allows for comfortable exploration of the town.
Bonifacio has direct access to some of Corsica's most pristine natural environments.
An absolute must-do day trip for any visitor to Bonifacio. These protected granite islands have unparalleled snorkeling, pristine beaches, and clear waters.
Many well-marked paths along the cliffs present stunning views of the sea, the unique rock formations, and the town itself.
Discover Corsica's ancient past and rural life with these cultural day trips.
About 80 km (1.5-hour drive) away, Filitosa is an important prehistoric archaeological site. It features impressive menhirs and dolmens, thousands of years old. This site provides a fascinating look into Corsica's ancient people.
Located about 60 km (1.5-hour drive), the mountain village of Zonza serves as a gateway to the dramatic granite peaks of Aiguilles de Bavella. This area presents stunning scenery, hiking paths, and rock climbing. Col de Bavella is a scenic viewpoint.
Discover smaller, less-visited rural villages in the Alta Rocca region or near Sartène. These villages frequently present an authentic look into Corsican daily life, with local cafes and artisan shops.
One of Corsica's most important prehistoric archaeological sites, with impressive and mysterious menhirs and dolmens.
The charming mountain village of Zonza serves as a gateway to the dramatic granite peaks of Aiguilles de Bavella.
Consider extending your trip to explore more of Corsica or even hop over to neighboring Sardinia.
For more time, spending 7-14 days exploring the entire island is a superb option. Combine your visit to the south (Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio) with other regions.
After Bonifacio, consider moving north along the west coast to Ajaccio, then to the UNESCO-listed Calanques de Piana. Alternatively, head east towards Bastia and discover Cap Corse.
Take the short, scenic ferry from Bonifacio to Santa Teresa Gallura in Northern Sardinia for a few days. Sardinia has a distinct Italian flavor with stunning beaches.
Direct ferry travel from Bonifacio is available. You can take your rental car on the ferry or rent a new car in Sardinia.
Planning your extended travel means considering logistics for smooth transitions between destinations.
Research and book your places to stay well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Secure rental cars or ferry tickets early, as they can be in high demand.
Ferry services between Corsica and Sardinia fill quickly, specifically in summer.
Efficient airport services contribute to a smoother travel experience when arriving or departing from Corsica.
Consider Priority Pass for airport lounge access, providing a relaxed environment before flights. This service offers access to independent airport lounges worldwide.
Should your flight experience delays, cancellations, or denied boarding, services like Compensair assist in claiming owed compensation.
Arrange airport transfers in advance. Taxis and pre-booked shuttles are options to get to and from Figari airport.
Figari Sud-Corse Airport is the closest airport to Bonifacio, located approximately 20 km away.
It mostly handles domestic flights from mainland France and some seasonal international routes.
Taxis and car rentals are available at the airport for onward travel to Bonifacio.
