Vacations in Corsica
Known as the "Island of Beauty," Corsica is a place of contrasts. On a Corsican vacation, a day's sightseeing can reveal spectacular landscapes and beautiful bays, historic coastal towns, hidden villages and thick forests. It is a destination that allows you to enjoy the outdoors, history and gastronomy.
Things to do in Corsica
The sun-drenched island of Corsica is a fantastic vacation destination in Europe. Nestled between Italy and France, this mountainous land is covered in beautiful forests, vineyards and surrounded by sandy beaches. 1,000 km of beaches to be exact, offering this surprisingly popular getaway many ways to delight, inspire and entertain future vacationers.
Take a long walk
Walking vacations in Corsica allow you to discover the island from its hiking trails, including the famous and challenging Grande Randonnée. Plan to hike this 17-day trail in the spring to see the wildflowers at their best.
Life in the open air
Climbing, hiking and canyoning are just some of the activities offered in the Bavella massif. Climb all or part of Monte Incudine in search of shy mouflons or wild sheep.
Feeling ambitious? Rent a bike and cycle through some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery you'll find. Choose the path of least resistance and take an easy ride to the top of a gentle hill or tackle the famous Gr20, Corsica's most fearsome peak.
Shopping en Corse
Daily markets, such as Place César-Campinchi in Ajaccio, are ideal for picnics and gifts. Local crafts that make ideal souvenirs are stoneware, ceramics, glass and baskets.
Nightlife
In Corsica, nightlife is discreet and concentrated on restaurants and cafes. There are a few discos in Bastia with its student population, while some bars in Porto Vecchio stay open all night in summer. To make the most of Corsica's nightlife, the larger cities offer an impressive selection of bars and every village has a little place where you can relax and enjoy a glass of wine or three. For a more hedonistic evening, try Chez Tao in the citadel, a famous celebrity spot. Whatever experience you're looking for, a stay in Corsica really does have it all.
Things to see in Corsica
Guided tours
Explore Napoleon's birthplace in Ajaccio, the capital, or stroll through the narrow medieval streets of the Citadel in Bonifacio. Rainwater aqueducts crisscross the streets while the Escalier du Roi d'Aragon (King of Aragon's Stairs) traces a steep path through the cliffs.
Family activities
Near Ajaccio is the Turtle Sanctuary, where turtles and tortoises are studied and protected. The island's aerial parks, such as Acqua & Natura - Parc de la Solenzara, offer treetop adventures, monkey bridges, zip lines and rope swings. Families will appreciate its peaceful yet action-packed charm, couples will be charmed by its romantic setting, and groups of friends will love its temperate climate and fun, frivolous approach to life. Whatever your point of view, Corsica is a true showcase of the best of the Mediterranean.
The famous beaches of Corsica
Les vacances en famille en Corse sont idéales pour explorer les 200 plages de l'île, comme la longue étendue de la Plage de Palombaggia. Ce paradis de la plage a des eaux turquoises étincelantes et un sable doré bordé de pins.
How to get to Corsica?
Corsica vacation package flights land at one of the island's four airports, located at Ajaccio, Bastia, Figari and Calvi. While flights from France arrive year-round, flights for Corsica vacations from Manchester and other European airports are seasonal. For the best deals, check out our pages on flights to Corsica.
Public transport
The island has one train line, the Chemin de Fer de la Corse, which runs a scenic route from Bastia to Ajaccio. Otherwise, public transportation is limited to a few infrequent bus services between the major cities.
Typical food and gastronomy
Owned by France, this island is strongly influenced by Italy, which is reflected in its cuisine and language. Corsican delicacies are usually cheeses, sausages, lamb, rustic breads and, on the coast and in the surrounding area, seafood is common. The island has many vineyards, so locally produced wines are both delicious and very reasonably priced.
What is the best time of the year to visit Corsica?
It is during the summer months that Corsica is the most crowded and dynamic, the resorts are buzzing with activity and the many restaurants and bars are lively and friendly. Walking around in the evening choosing which local food to sample or wine to try is one of the greatest pleasures of lastminute.com's last minute vacations on this largely unspoiled island. No matter what time of year a cheap vacation is planned in Corsica, there will be feasts and festivals that every village and town can take advantage of to celebrate the local saints' holidays. The long-running Calvi jazz festival takes place in June, while Bastille Day on July 14 is marked by street parties and fireworks. Food-related events include the almond festival in August.
Weather and climate
From June to August, the coast experiences warm, sunny days, with a few storms inland. Spring and fall are mild and humid, while winter temperatures range from mild on the coast to extremely cold in the inland ski resorts.
Visas and other essential information
Visitors from the UK or EU member states do not need a visa to travel to Corsica (France)
What language is spoken in Corsica?
Although Corsica has its own national language, only about 10% of the population still speaks it. The official language is French, while Italian is widely spoken and understood. English is spoken in the main tourist areas and resorts.
Accommodation in Corsica
From all-inclusive seaside vacations in Corsica to mountain retreats, the island offers a wide choice of comfortable, quality accommodations. Get the best prices by booking your flights and hotels in Corsica at the same time.
Additional tips for visiting Corsica
Consider combining Corsica and Sardinia for your Corsica vacation. The Italian island of Sardinia is just a short ferry ride from Bonifacio.
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