The first thing to do in Ajaccio will be to visit its historic center to discover a heritage of rare historical and cultural wealth.
Thus you can set out to discover the following treasures:
A visit to Ajaccio is also made by wandering through the alleys at random which will lead you to Place de Gaulle (called Place du Diamant by Ajaccians), continuing to Cours Grandval and the Foreigners' district (a place popular for vacation in the 19th century by the first English, German and Swiss tourists).
Place d'Austerlitz also called "Place du Casone" is a must. Sheltered under large rocks behind the Square, Napoleon regularly came to meditate hence the name "Napoleon's Grotto".
Another must for a gourmet visit in the imperial city, Ajaccio market is the ideal place to discover all local specialties; enthusiasts can taste the flavors of both sea and mountain.
If some prefer to discover the city on their own, others prefer to be guided.
Several ways to discover Ajaccio:
- guided tours: many tours will be offered to you, such as visits to emblematic places full of art and history, "meeting" visits or "aperitif" visits. Guides will transmit their passion, always with a story to tell and Corsica has many, as do the legends...
- visits with Ajaccio's little train: you don't like walking or have young children, the little train will be an original way to visit Ajaccio. 2 circuits will be possible: the city and old town circuit or the Sanguinary Islands circuit which will take you to Parata Point, this last one includes the city as well. These circuits will be commented in several languages.
- Visits by bus with Ajaccio Vision: At over 4m high, you will benefit from an exceptional 360° viewpoint and set out to discover the imperial city to the Sanguinary Islands. Commentary in several languages.
Our Ajaccio Tourist Office tip.
Do not hesitate to visit Ajaccio's Tourist Office.
It can offer you "good deals" such as the City Pass which will give you access to sites and services at an advantageous price.
No need to go far to hike in Corsica, Ajaccio and its surroundings are full of itineraries for all levels. Among the sporting activities to discover in Ajaccio, hiking is the simplest and most accessible.
For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, many hiking trails are accessible from Ajaccio. With its jagged and wild coastline, you will discover landscapes and panoramas that will take your breath away, a rich and vibrant fauna and flora with the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.
Some unmissable hiking itineraries:
The beach is everywhere in Ajaccio, it is part of the Ajaccian art of living.
There is something for everyone: long sandy beaches, beautiful rocky coves, some sheltered from prying eyes; you can spend a moment relaxing, swimming in the warm waters of the Mediterranean and lunching in the shade of a beach hut and there are plenty of them.
Here are some of the beaches in Ajaccio:
Of course, the Gulf of Ajaccio has many other beaches, especially going towards the south shore of the gulf and the great seaside resort of Porticcio.
If during your stay in Corsica you wish to discover Ajaccio and its region differently, we encourage you to set off during a boat cruise.
Several boat companies offer different programs, from a few hours to a full day, departing from the old port of Ajaccio.
Some excursions like the Sanguinary Islands are done in half a day. For complete escape, opt for a full day boat trip; you can thus discover unforgettable spots, such as the Calanques of Piana, the Scandola Reserve, Bonifacio and the Lavezzi Islands at the far south.
Here are some of the main cruises from Ajaccio:
Many other boat tours can be offered to you, contact Ajaccio's Tourist Office which will direct you to one of the many professionals of these boat tours or consult this site which lists all the organizations in Ajaccio and the various excursions offered.
Live a unique and unforgettable experience: discover and explore the seabed in the Gulf of Ajaccio. The fauna there is exceptional, you will discover a large number of aquatic specimens. The environment being protected, it is also conducive to varied flora.
If you are a novice and not too daring but the deep sea attracts you, try snorkeling, underwater hiking, you will slip on a mask, snorkel and fins and explore a few meters deep if you wish the fauna and flora underwater. And why not, perform your diving baptism afterwards?
Adventurer or experienced diver, you hold a diving level, so go exploring diving in the Gulf of Ajaccio. Many spots are renowned for their spectacular drop-offs or for diving on wrecks, always spectacular.
During a stay in Ajaccio, visiting the historic center is of course unavoidable but do not hesitate to explore the Ajaccian hinterland, it really is worth the detour and will allow you to discover the Isle of Beauty differently.
Set out to discover picturesque villages where you can meet craftsmen and producers or hike in surprising and particularly exotic landscapes.
Among all these places to visit, here are some suggestions:
Canyoning in Corsica is a sporting activity accessible to all.
The Island, very mountainous with natural gorges that take your breath away and many rivers, is an ideal playground for you to practice canyoning or water hiking. You will discover wild and preserved corners.
Different courses will be proposed to you, whether you are an adventurer looking for thrills, want an introduction course or want to discover this activity as a family, you will always find your happiness.
We present 2 descents as an example and close to Ajaccio:
If you continue your stay outside Ajaccio, Canyon Corse offers you many other routes in different regions of Corsica, such as for example in the Corte region, the Calvi region in Balagne and of course in Propriano in the Valinco Gulf
Equestrian tourism is booming in Corsica, thanks to particularly adapted territory and professionals offering quality rides.
A mountainous island, with its rivers, its mountain meadows, its coastline dotted with trails, Corsica offers very numerous possibilities for horseback riding.
There are many ranches in most regions of Corsica that offer services ranging from half a day to a real circuit over several days (dedicated to the more experienced).
In the Gulf of Ajaccio, 3 equestrian centers are present: in Porticcio, Bastelicaccia and Ajaccio. Through them, you will set out to discover authentic landscapes. Hike through nature on trails inaccessible by car, horse ride on the beach, crossing Corsican maquis with unforgettable scents. Half-day circuits will be offered to you.
Equestrian sports is an enjoyable sport for both adults and children. Whether you are a beginner or advanced, horses are chosen based on your level.
Corsica, with its many beaches with crystal clear and turquoise waters, is ideal for practicing many water sports.
Ajaccio is no exception! On most beaches, you will always find a provider to offer you the activity that best suits you, whether you are alone, with family or with friends.