There are great many things to do in France, and so are in Corte.
Nestled in the heart of Corsica like a precious gem, Corte invites you to explore its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes.
Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or a food enthusiast, this charming town has everything to satisfy your senses and spark your imagination.
Follow me on a journey to discover the best things to do in Corte and soak in the beauty of this magical place.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Corte:
1. Citadelle de Corte
The Citadelle de Corte is a historic fortress located in the town of Corte, Corsica.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the impressive 15th-century fortress and learn about its significance in the island’s history. The Citadelle also offers stunning panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the museum inside the Citadelle, which showcases a collection of Corsican art and artifacts.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes, as there are a lot of stairs to climb.
2. Musee de la Corse
A regional museum in the heart of Corte, dedicated to the culture and history of the island of Corsica.
What to see or do: Explore the permanent collection that displays over 3000 objects, including ethnographic artefacts, paintings, and sculptures. Discover prehistoric Corsica and learn about the island’s unique identity.
You can also attend temporary exhibitions, conferences, and cultural events.
Don’t miss: The museum’s stunning location in the historic Citadel of Corte, a military fortress that dates back to the 15th century. The panoramic view from the terrace also provides a breathtaking outlook of the surrounding mountains.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to check out the nearby Restonica Valley, known for its spectacular rivers and waterfalls, and the Tavignano Gorges.
The museum is closed on Mondays, and it’s recommended to visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season in July and August.
If you’re a student or under 26, bring your ID for a discounted entry fee.
3. Gorges de la Restonica
Gorges de la Restonica is a stunning natural site located in central Corsica near the town of Corte.
What to see or do: The site’s rugged mountain terrain features breathtaking canyons, crystal clear streams, and captivating waterfalls that make it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can hike through the gorge’s diverse landscapes, take a refreshing swim in the pristine pools, or explore the numerous trails that lead up to the surrounding hills.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Meli waterfall, one of the most picturesque features of the gorge.
The waterfall cascades down a rocky precipice surrounded by lush greenery and calm pools, making it the perfect spot for taking a dip or having a picnic.
Insider travel tips: – Make sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes and plenty of water if you plan to venture deeper into the gorge.
4. Cascades des Anglais
Cascades des Anglais is a scenic waterfall located near the city of Corte in Corsica, France.
What to see or do: The waterfall is a popular spot for hiking, with a trail leading to the base of the falls. Along the way, you’ll see stunning views of the surrounding mountains and countryside.
There are also several picnic areas for visitors to enjoy.
Don’t miss: Be sure to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty of the waterfall and its surroundings. The turquoise blue water is particularly striking and makes for great photos.
Insider travel tips: – The trail to the waterfall is relatively easy, but be sure to wear comfortable shoes with good grip as some parts can be slippery.
5. Chapelle Sainte Croix
The Chapelle Sainte Croix is a historic chapel located in Corte, a town in the center of the island of Corsica.
What to see or do: The chapel features beautiful frescoes and artifacts dating back to the early 16th century. Visitors can admire the Gothic architecture of the chapel and appreciate the stunning views overlooking the town of Corte.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the remarkable frescoes on the walls of the chapel, which showcase the life of Christ and his disciples.
Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, the Chapelle Sainte Croix is the perfect place to escape to.
Take a moment to pause and reflect in this serene and peaceful setting. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the breathtaking views from the terrace.
6. Place Gaffory
Picturesque square in the heart of Corte.
What to see or do: Enjoy a coffee or an aperitif at one of the outdoor cafes and soak up the Corsican atmosphere. Admire the old Corsican architecture and watch the world go by.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the surrounding mountains from the square.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square in the late afternoon or early evening when the sun is low and casts a warm glow over the buildings and surrounding mountains.
Make sure to try the local Corsican beer, Pietra, at one of the cafes. It’s a refreshing and delicious way to experience the local culture.
7. Ponte Vecchiu
Historic stone bridge spanning over the Restonica river in the center of Corte.
What to see or do: Walk across the old bridge and admire the beautiful views of the Restonica river and the surrounding mountains. Take photos of the stunning scenery and the traditional Corsican buildings on either side of the bridge.
Don’t miss: Visiting the nearby Museum of Corsica, located just a short walk from the bridge. The museum showcases the history and culture of the island.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning for the best light and fewer crowds. Wear comfortable shoes as the bridge can be uneven and slippery in wet weather.
Explore the nearby alleys and streets of Corte to discover hidden gems and local cafes and restaurants.
8. Eglise de l’Annonciation
Eglise de l’Annonciation is a historic church located in the heart of Corte, Corsica.
What to see or do: Visit this stunning church to marvel at its beautiful Baroque architecture and interiors. The church’s ornate decorations, frescoes, and statues make it a must-visit for art lovers and history buffs alike.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the exquisite marble altar, which was sculpted in the 18th century and is one of the church’s most prized possessions.
Insider travel tips: – Visit the church during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.
9. Lac du Melo
A glacial lake located in the Restonica Valley near Corte, Corsica.
What to see or do: The lake’s crystal clear blue-green water surrounded by high mountains is a sight to behold.
Visitors can take a hike around the lake, enjoy a leisurely picnic, or even take a dip on a hot day.
Don’t miss: The stunning views from the hike around the lake, including the snow-capped peaks of Monte Rotondo and Paglia Orba.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. The hike to the lake can be steep and rocky, so wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water.
Parking near the trailhead can be limited, so arrive early or consider taking a shuttle bus from Corte.
10. Notre-Dame-des-Victoires
A historic church located in the heart of Corte, Corsica.
What to see or do: Admire the beautiful façade with its intricate carvings and baroque-style decorations. Step inside to see the ornate altar and beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary.
Take a moment to appreciate the serene atmosphere and tranquility of the church.
Don’t miss: The statue of the Black Madonna, which stands at the center of the altar. This statue is an important symbol of Corsican identity and represents the island’s history of struggle and resilience.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Notre-Dame-des-Victoires and the surrounding area, consider taking a guided tour.
The church is open daily for visitors, but be sure to check the schedule for Mass and other religious services before planning your visit.
Additionally, as a sign of respect, make sure to dress appropriately and keep noise levels to a minimum while inside the church.
11. Pont du Diable
Pont du Diable, also known as Devil’s Bridge, is an iconic bridge located in the city of Corte, in the heart of the beautiful island of Corsica.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along this famous 13th-century bridge and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys, rivers, and mountains. The area around the bridge is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and swimming.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the bridge and the surrounding area. It is also worth exploring the nearby Tavignano Gorges for more breathtaking natural beauty.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring comfortable shoes for exploring the area around the bridge. If you want to avoid crowds, visit the bridge early in the morning or late afternoon.
Also, be aware that the road leading up to the bridge is narrow and winding, so it’s recommended to drive carefully and slowly.
12. Marche de Corte
A vibrant market in the historic town of Corte in the heart of Corsica.
What to see or do: Wander around the bustling stalls selling local produce, including fresh fruit, vegetables, cheese, meats, and wine. Besides food, you can find a variety of handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
Don’t miss: Trying the local specialties like fiadone (Corsican cheesecake), coppa (dry-cured pork), and myrtle liquor.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best selection of products. Bring cash as most vendors don’t accept credit cards.
Take your time to explore the charming town of Corte and visit the nearby citadel for spectacular views.
13. Les Beignets de Miss Georgette
A charming little bakery in the heart of the historic town of Corte, in the center of Corsica.
What to see or do: Indulge in traditional Corsican pastries, such as canistrelli and fiadone, or try the specialty of the house – beignets, crispy doughnuts sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Don’t miss: If you visit during the summertime, try the beignets with a scoop of local ice cream for a delightful combination.
Insider travel tips: Get there early in the morning to secure your share of the fresh batch, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Don’t be discouraged by the queue, it moves fast and the wait is worth it.
Enjoy your pastries with a coffee or hot chocolate inside the cozy shop or take them to go and explore the charming town of Corte.
14. A Cupulatta Park
A Cupulatta Park is a nature park located near Corte, Corsica, that houses more than 170 species of tortoises and turtles.
What to see or do: Visitors can walk through various trails and habitats to see these fascinating reptiles up close, from small hatchlings to giant Galapagos tortoises.
The park also offers educational exhibits and activities for all ages, including a petting zoo and guided tours.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the feeding time, where you can watch the park staff hand-feeding some of the animals and learn more about their diets and behavior.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunscreen as most of the park is outdoors.
15. Le Belvedere de Corte
Le Belvedere de Corte is a scenic overlook located at the summit of the Corsican town of Corte.
What to see or do: From the top, visitors get to enjoy a panoramic view of the town of Corte and its surrounding valley. The overlook is a popular spot for taking pictures, especially during sunset.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the spectacular view of Tavignano River and Restonica Valley from the overlook.
Insider travel tips: The hike up to the overlook can be quite steep and challenging, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring enough water.
Visitors can also take a train ride to Corte, which offers a stunning view of the valley. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views.