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There are an array of things to do in France, with Ajaccio sharing quite a few of those!
Welcome to Ajaccio, a Mediterranean gem nestled in the heart of Corsica’s rugged coastline.
A vibrant blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, this charming town offers a treasure trove of activities for adventurous souls and curious minds alike.
So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to discover the hidden treasures of Ajaccio.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Ajaccio:
1. Ajaccio Cathedral
A stunning cathedral located in the heart of Ajaccio, the capital city of Corsica.
What to see or do: Marvel at the beautiful architecture and intricate details of the cathedral’s interior, including the impressive organ and high altar.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the fascinating history of the cathedral and its importance to the local community.
Don’t miss: The painting of the “Last Supper” by Leonardo da Vinci’s student, Marco d’Oggiono, located in the transept. Also, be sure to visit the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte’s father, Charles Bonaparte, in the crypt.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid tourist crowds. Dress modestly (no shorts or revealing clothing) out of respect for the religious site.
Keep in mind that the cathedral may be closed for services or special events.
2. Fesch Museum
The Fesch Museum is a museum of fine arts located in Ajaccio, Corsica. It houses a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive collection of Italian paintings, French paintings, and Corsican paintings, as well as a large collection of sculptures. Admire works from famous artists such as Botticelli, Titian, and Van Dyck.
Don’t miss: The Napoleonic Museum, located within the Fesch Museum, which commemorates the life and accomplishments of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Insider travel tips: – Visit in the morning to avoid crowds.
3. Maison Bonaparte
Maison Bonaparte is the ancestral home of Napoleon Bonaparte that has been transformed into a museum.
What to see or do: Explore the museum to learn about the history of the Bonaparte family and Napoleon’s life. Check out the exhibits featuring memorabilia, personal items, furniture, and paintings.
Don’t miss: The chance to see the room where Napoleon was born and the family chapel where he was baptized.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum.
4. Porticcio Beach
Porticcio Beach is a gorgeous strip of white sand lapped by turquoise waters, located south of Ajaccio on the west coast of Corsica.
What to see or do: Sunbathe, swim, and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Porticcio Beach. Paddleboards and kayaks can be rented for those who’d like to explore the bay.
Don’t miss: Watch the glorious sunset over the sea from Porticcio Beach and soak in its ethereal beauty.
Insider travel tips: – During the summer, Porticcio Beach gets crowded, so arrive early to secure a prime spot on the sand.
5. Sanguinaires Islands
A group of four small islands off the coast of Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: Take a boat tour to see the stunning rock formations and crystal clear waters surrounding the islands. Explore the charming lighthouse on the main island.
Go snorkeling or scuba diving to see the diverse marine life.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking sunset views from the islands.
Insider travel tips: Pack a picnic lunch and spend the day on one of the secluded beaches. Be sure to bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
Avoid visiting during peak tourist season to have a more peaceful experience.
6. Capo di Feno Beach
Capo di Feno Beach is a stunning, isolated sandy beach located on the western coast of Corsica, near Ajaccio.
What to see or do: At Capo di Feno Beach, you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on the soft sand. The beach is also a popular spot for surfing and windsurfing due to its strong winds and waves.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the breathtaking views of the turquoise Mediterranean Sea and the rugged coast surrounding the beach. It’s also worth staying around to catch the magnificent sunset over the horizon.
Insider travel tips: – Bring your own food and drinks, as there are no restaurants or cafes nearby.
7. Genoese Tower of Parata
The Genoese Tower of Parata is a 16th century tower located on a rocky outcropping overlooking the Mediterranean sea, just a few kilometers from Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the tower to take in the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The tower is surrounded by the beautiful and wild nature of the Corsican coast, making it a perfect spot for a hike or picnic.
Don’t miss: Make sure to explore the trails around the tower, including Sentier des Crêtes, for even more breathtaking views. Don’t miss the opportunity to spot local wildlife such as the famous Corsican mouflon.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. The tower can be reached by car, but for a real adventure, try hiking or biking there.
Embrace the Corsican lifestyle by bringing a picnic to enjoy while taking in the views.
8. Place Foch
Place Foch is a historic public square located in the heart of Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by charming buildings with traditional Corsican architecture and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll. The square is also home to a large statue of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born in Ajaccio.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss a visit to the nearby Maison Bonaparte, which was the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and now serves as a museum.
Also, be sure to explore the charming narrow streets and alleys that surround the square.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the numerous outdoor cafes and restaurants that line the square.
Additionally, if you’re a history buff, consider taking a guided tour of Ajaccio that will provide insight into the city’s rich history.
9. Municipal Casino
Municipal Casino is a historic building located in the heart of Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive architecture of the Belle Époque era building and enjoy a night of gambling at the casino.
Don’t miss: The view from the rooftop terrace which offers a spectacular panoramic view of the city and the sea.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to dress appropriately as there is a dress code requirement to enter the casino.
Also, try your luck on a Wednesday evening when the casino offers free entry and a complimentary drink for all visitors.
10. Napoleon’s Camp
Historical site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s military camp in Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: Explore the remains of the camp, including the watchtower, military stables, and sleeping quarters. Learn about Napoleon’s early military training and career from the informative exhibits and displays.
Don’t miss: The museum, which houses a collection of Napoleon memorabilia, including rare personal items from his time on the island.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen, as the site is situated on a rocky hilltop with little shade.
Consider hiring a guide to fully appreciate the historical significance of the site and to get the most out of your visit.
11. Route des Sanguinaires
A scenic road that runs along the west coast of Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: – Enjoy the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rocky coastline.
Don’t miss: The sunset views from Route des Sanguinaires are unforgettable, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
Insider travel tips: – To fully appreciate the beauty of the road, consider driving or biking along it.
12. Place de Gaulle
Place de Gaulle is the main square in the city center of Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the town hall, the Palais des Congrès, and several cafes and boutiques. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the square, taking in the sights and sounds of the bustling city.
Don’t miss: One of the most iconic features of the square is the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte, who was born in Ajaccio in 1769.
The statue, which depicts Napoleon on horseback, stands in the center of the square and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the square during the day to see it come alive with street performers and bustling activity.
13. City Hall of Ajaccio
The City Hall of Ajaccio is the administrative center of the city and the seat of the local government.
What to see or do: The building itself is an impressive example of Second Empire architecture, with its ornate façade, grand staircase, and spacious courtyard.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the interior, which includes the Council Chamber, the Mayor’s office, and the historic Hall of Mirrors.
Don’t miss: Do not miss the opportunity to see the panoramic view of Ajaccio and the Golfe d’Ajaccio from the balcony on the top floor of the building.
Also, take the time to explore the lovely gardens surrounding the City Hall.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to check the open hours of the City Hall, as they vary depending on the time of year. Additionally, it is recommended to book a guided tour in advance to have a smooth and informative experience.
14. National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence
The National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence is a museum located in the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte in Ajaccio, Corsica.
What to see or do: The museum houses a collection of art and artifacts related to the Bonaparte family, including the room where Napoleon was born.
Visitors can also see a reconstruction of the dining room where Napoleon’s family had their meals, as well as a collection of paintings and furniture from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is Napoleon’s cradle, which is on display in the room where he was born. Visitors can also see the study where Napoleon’s father worked as well as the chapel where Napoleon was baptized.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the heart of Ajaccio and can be easily reached on foot.
15. Les Calanches
Les Calanches is a strikingly beautiful stretch of red granite rock formations located on the west coast of Corsica, near the city of Ajaccio.
What to see or do: The jagged, towering rock cliffs of Les Calanches offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can take a leisurely boat tour or hike along the trails to fully appreciate this natural wonder.
The area is also perfect for rock climbing enthusiasts.
Don’t miss: Witnessing the breathtaking sunset over the ocean from one of the many viewpoints of Les Calanches is an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: For the best experience, it’s recommended to visit in the early morning or late evening when the lighting is ideal and the crowds are fewer.
Be sure to wear sturdy shoes when hiking in the area and carry plenty of water. Parking can be limited, so it’s wise to arrive early or use public transportation.