Corsica, nicknamed the Island of Beauty, is a jewel of the Mediterranean. Whether you are a lover of nature, gastronomy, culture or relaxation, Corsica will seduce you. For those who only have five days to experience this breathtaking island, here’s what you absolutely shouldn’t miss.[/caption]
Day 1: Ajaccio, an imperial city
Start your journey in Corsica with a visit to Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Stroll through the old town, with its picturesque streets and colorful houses. Don’t miss the Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s birthplace, transformed into a museum. On the seafront, the Tino Rossi marina offers an idyllic panorama of the Gulf of Ajaccio.
The Maison Bonaparte in Ajaccio: immersion in Napoleonic history
If you are a history buff, a visit to the Maison Bonaparte in Ajaccio is a must during your stay in Corsica by the sea. Located in the heart of the old town, this Corsican bourgeois residence is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, the illustrious French emperor. Now transformed into a national museum, the Maison Bonaparte offers you an intimate insight into the life of the Bonaparte family, through an exhibition rich in period objects, documents and portraits. Strolling from room to room, you will feel the atmosphere of the time and the historical imprint of this house. To complete your visit, don’t forget to take a detour to the imperial chapel, the final resting place of several members of the Bonaparte family. The Maison Bonaparte in Ajaccio is a journey through time, to the heart of Napoleonic grandeur on Corsican soil.
Day 2: The Calanques of Piana
Your second day in Corsica will be marked by the wild beauty of the Calanques de Piana, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. These rock formations eroded by the wind and the sea offer a breathtaking spectacle. Take the time to explore the marked trails to admire these natural wonders from every angle.
The Calanques of Piana: a breathtaking natural spectacle
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these pink granite rock formations offer a breathtaking spectacle, especially when the sun sets and the coves ablaze with a thousand lights. Along the waves, you will see surprising shapes, sculpted by erosion and imagination: the castle, the heart, the dog’s head… Each cove has its history and legend, which your guide will be happy to tell you about. And who knows, maybe you will have the chance to come across dolphins during your excursion? The Calanques of Piana by boat are an opportunity to live a unique experience, getting as close as possible to Corsican nature in all its splendor.
Day 3: Cape Corsica
On the third day, set off to explore Cap Corse, this “finger-like” peninsula in the north of the island. It’s a nature lover’s paradise with its steep cliffs, secret beaches and hilltop villages. Don’t miss the village of Nonza and its black pebble beach, as well as the picturesque port of Centuri.
Day 4: Corte, the heart of Corsica
Corte is the beating heart of Corsica, with its university and its citadel. Perched on a rocky peak, the old town offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Take the time to visit the Corsican Museum and stroll along the Restonica, a river with crystal clear waters.
Day 5: Bonifacio, the city of cliffs
End your stay in Corsica with a visit to Bonifacio, located in the far south of the island. The old town, perched on limestone cliffs, is a real spectacle. Take a boat to explore the sea caves and admire the cliffs from the sea. Before leaving, enjoy a glass of Corsican wine while watching the sunset from the citadel.
Sea trips around Bonifacio
Nothing like a sea excursion to end your stay in Corsica in style. From the port of Bonifacio, many boats offer you the opportunity to discover the hidden wonders of the coast. In turquoise and crystal clear water, you can observe the underwater fauna and flora, while admiring the majesty of the limestone cliffs. Don’t forget to visit the famous sea cave of Sdragonato, known for its opening in the shape of a map of Corsica. The walk will also take you to the Lavezzi Islands, a wild and preserved archipelago, ideal for scuba diving. A sea trip around Bonifacio is the guarantee of unforgettable moments and breathtaking landscapes, where the beauty of Corsica is revealed from another angle.
Corsica is an island full of treasures. Although a five-day stay won’t allow you to see everything, these stops will give you a nice overview of what the Isle of Beauty has to offer. You will come back with unforgettable memories and only one desire: to return there to continue exploring.
