Corsica is a beautiful Mediterranean island and you would need a good 3 weeks to explore both north and south of the island. If you are both a mountain and sea lover this trip is for you!
This 5-day travel itinerary in South Corsica is perfect if you have booked a long weekend with friends or family. What to do, where to go, how to get there? Read below the insider's guide to Ajaccio and surroundings by Hibiscus & Nomada.
STOP 1: AJACCIO
HOW TO GET THERE
There are two ways to arrive to Ajaccio, by ferry from mainland France (Nice, Toulon & Marseille) or by plane to Ajaccio Intl Airport. Prices are pretty much competitive. Pros and cons? On the ferry you can board your car, and the plane is much faster than the crossing! If you opt for flying, there are plenty of car rentals at the airport at a decent price where you can hire any types of car for the duration of your stay. View Map
WHERE TO STAY
During high season. Accomodations can be quite expensive. So you have two possibilities, book really in advance (some book even one year ahead to get the best spots) or you choose less touristy places. If you are a last-minute booker, we've got you covered, Residence Les Flots Bleus on Agosta Plage (20kms south from Ajaccio) is a hidden gem you will be very surprised. On booking.com you can rent a studio for as long as you want, you can fit 4 persons (two double beds) it has eveything need to enjoy mojitos at the terrasse or sunrise breakfast with a view! The studio is located on the beach separated by one rod to cross. Literally 2 seconds and you are in paradise. Sunrise and sunset are absolutely stunning and changing every day. They have everything you need nearby, convenience stores, bakery, restuarants, bars etc and you are 15 min away from Ajaccio and Porticcio, as well as very close to other paradise beaches. Sophie, the owner is very nice and will give you great recommendations on what to do, as well as being very nice and accomodating when it comes to check-in and check-out times! Book Now
BEST BEACHES
Because you are only there for 5 days let's optimise your time and give you the top 3 must-go beaches around Ajaccio. Not too crowded, lots of nature around and a perfect crystal-clear water.
Agosta Plage
Sublime landscape, white sand beach and a view over Ajaccio and the mountains. What else do you need? Oh yes they have jet skis, paddle and all sorts as well as amazing waves when it gets windy if you like surfing or just play in the water with inflatable toys! View Map
2. Mare e Sol (Plage d'Argent)
3. Route des Sanguinaires
STOP 2: BONIFACIO
HOW TO GET THERE
By car from Ajaccio, you drive towards Sartene then Bonifacio. You will pass by the mountains and villages that is truly Corsica. One must-see place is Roccapina. About half-way to Bonifacio you will arrive in Roccapina. You won't miss it, there is the first viewpoint, then a snack restaurant, then the second viewpoint. Take a few minutes to enjoy that absolutely stunning view of the mountains and the turquoise sea. You can also distinguish a lion and an elephants in the rocks. Spot them with your camera zoom as it is quite far away! Another few miles and you will get to Bonifacio. The town is not that big but there are a lots of tourists so parking can be tricky. Solution? Go to parking "Promenades en Mer" for customers only. No you are not a customer just yet! Get there, park your car and go to the kiosk where you will by your boat tour. Why? Trust us it is worth it! If you buy tickets, parking is free until 10PM. So yes this is already a winner as it would cost you 20€ either way.
WHAT TO DO
Boat Tour: choose between three boat tours: 1h short trip that takes you out along the cliffs to the grottes marines (sea caves) and calanches (inlets) below the old town, 1h10 for underwater boat or all day trip with hop on hop off to exlore Lavezzi islands.
Old Town: walk up to the old town Bonifacio for the view and the typical corsica houses. Bars, Restaurants, Shops everything to experience Corsica like a local!
Marina: Looking for some souvenirs shopping as well as a great seafood meal by the port? The Marina has a great selection of stores and restaurants right on the port where you will see many yachts coming in and out. Great show!