Top 15: The Best Things to Do in Corsica

If you’ve been searching for your next island getaway, look no further! Located in the Mediterranean Sea, just above the island of Sardinia, Corsica is one of the most beautiful Mediterranean Islands to visit. Often called the Island of Beauty, Corsica will captivate you with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and idyllic beaches.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or discovery, this list of 15 unmissable things to do in Corsica will help you make the most of your holiday on the island. From dramatic mountains to secluded coves and historic towns, Corsica promises an unforgettable experience.

Fun Facts about Corsica

Before we get into the best things to do in Corsica, here are some fun facts about the island for those of you who may not have heard of it before:

• Corsica is a French island in the Mediterranean, but it has a distinct culture to mainland France.
• The official language is French, though Corsican is also spoken.
• It has a population of around 340,000 people.
• The currency is the euro.
• Corsica is known for its dramatic mountains and over 621 miles of coastline!

1. Learn About Corsica’s Rich History and Culture in Ajaccio

If you’re interested in Corsica’s history, start your trip by exploring Ajaccio, the island’s capital. Located on the west coast, this city is steeped in history—did you know it’s where Napoleon Bonaparte was born? A visit to Maison Bonaparte, his birthplace, is an absolute must for history buffs. The museum showcases fascinating exhibitions about his life with personal artifacts.

Ajaccio also offers plenty of cultural sights. Marvel at the architecture of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Palais Fesch, or stroll through historic squares like Place Foch and admire the impressive citadel.

Top tip: be sure to swing by the Casone Market, where you can savor local Corsican specialties like cured meats, artisan cheeses, and honey.

To top off your time in Ajaccio, take a boat trip to the Sanguinaires Islands, just a few kilometers away. These rugged islets are famous for their stunning sunsets, which you can see for yourself when you book a sunset boat tour!

2. Visit Paradisiacal Beaches

If your dream getaway involves a beautiful Mediterranean island, visiting pristine beaches is sure to be high on your list of things to do! Luckily for you, Corsica’s beaches are some of the most idyllic! If we had to narrow it down to the top two, we’d recommend visiting the Plage de Palombaggia and Plage de Santa Giulia, both located in the south. These stunning spots boast fine white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Palombaggia is celebrated for its untouched beauty, while Santa Giulia has a serene, family-friendly atmosphere with shallow waters ideal for family beach days.

Porto-Vecchio is a great place to stay if you fancy exploring these beaches, with its charming historic center and lively harbor full of local restaurants and bars.

3. Go Hiking in the Bavella Massif

For hiking enthusiasts, the Bavella Massif is a dream destination. The ‘Sentier des Aiguilles‘ trail takes you through beautiful pine forests and along rivers, offering stunning viewpoints of the jagged mountain peaks. If you’re up for a serious challenge, tackle the GR20, one of Europe’s toughest long-distance hiking trails. The 124-mile route (200 km) stretches across Corsica, passing through this spectacular region with rugged terrain, dramatic cliffs, and rewarding panoramas.

Prefer a more relaxed hike? The area also offers easier trails, making it accessible for all nature lovers to enjoy the fresh mountain air and breathtaking landscapes.

4. Take a Boat Trip in the Scandola Nature Reserve

The UNESCO-listed Scandola Nature Reserve is an unmissable gem that is only accessible by boat. Its volcanic cliffs, secluded coves, and rich wildlife make it a haven for nature lovers. If you want to explore this marine sanctuary, take a boat trip and sail its clear waters to discover coral reefs, underwater caves, and rare marine species.

If you want to see even more natural wonders, head to the nearby Calanques de Piana, where you’ll have stunning views of the dramatic rock formations, especially striking at sunset. See it for yourself by joining this boat Trip to Calanques de Piana.

5. Discover Corte: The Historical Heart of Corsica

Once Corsica’s capital, Corte offers a rich blend of history and nature. The 18th-century citadel, perched dramatically atop a rocky ledge, is one of Corsica’s most iconic sights. During World War I, German prisoners of war were held here—a story you can uncover at the Museum of Corsica, which explores the island’s unique culture, traditions, and history.

Corte is also a vibrant university town, giving it a lively atmosphere with cafés and markets. Nearby, the Regional Natural Park of Corsica offers picturesque hikes, waterfalls, rivers, and breathtaking scenery.

6. Enjoy an Adventure in the Restonica Gorges

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, the Restonica Gorges are calling your name! This dramatic landscape with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and natural pools, is the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers. For an adrenaline-pumping experience, you can choose from exciting activities like canyoning through the gorges, abseiling down waterfalls, rock climbing, or swimming in pristine natural pools.

Whether you’re canyoning or hiking along its scenic trails, the Restonica Valley promises an unforgettable adventure—perfect for anyone who wants to explore Corsica’s wild beauty while getting a heart-racing thrill!

7. Embark On a Journey Back in Time in Bonifacio

Bonifacio is an impressive natural spectacle, with its limestone cliffs plunging into the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean. Perched on these cliffs, the town offers a truly spectacular view. The medieval citadel, a historic gem, is a must-see, as are the town’s narrow streets. But above all, don’t miss the famous King of Aragon’s Staircase, carved directly into the rock! Fun fact: if you descend and ascend the staircase before you’re 12, you receive a certificate!

If you’re staying in Ajaccio or Porticcio, consider taking a day trip by boat to Bonifacio. This will give you plenty of time to explore the remarkable town. During your visit, you can wander through its charming streets, admire the breathtaking views, and uncover the rich history of this picturesque destination.

• Bonifacio Boat Cruise from Porticcio
• Bonifacio Boat Cruise from Ajaccio

8. Explore The Ruins of Cuma

Another one for history enthusiasts! The ruins of Cuma, near the town of the same name, offer a captivating insight into Roman civilization on the island. This archaeological site is an impressive testimony to the ancient city, revealing fascinating remains such as temples, amphitheaters, and public baths.

As you stroll through the ruins, you can discover the remains of the city walls, imposing columns, and elaborate mosaics that illustrate the art and culture of the period. If you want to dive deeper into the ruins of Cuma, you can book guided tours on-site.

9. Admire The Lavezzi Islands

Located off the coast of Bonifacio, the Lavezzi islands form an archipelago. The white sandy beaches, bordered by wind-sculpted granite rocks, are perfect for relaxing in the sun or cooling off in the water.

The Lavezzi Islands are also great if you love water sports. The waters around the islands are famous for their clarity and abundance of marine life: you can explore the seabed by diving or snorkeling, or take a boat cruise and explore the different islands, seeing secret beaches, secluded coves, and unrivaled wild beauty.

10. Visit Calvi

Another town worth visiting in Corsica is Calvi. Located on the island’s northwest coast, it’s a must-see. Calvi is characterized by its impressive citadel, from which you can admire the harbor and the Mediterranean Sea. The citadel, dating back to the 13th century, is a great place to explore medieval alleyways and admire ancient architecture.

Outside the walls, Calvi stands out for its magnificent beaches such as Alga and Pinède. With their fine sand and crystal-clear waters, they are very popular among locals and visitors alike.

11. Spend a Day at Saleccia Beach

One of the most magical things you can do in Corsica is head to Saleccia Beach, which you can only reach by boat or off-roading vehicle. Nestled in the Agriates desert, this is one of the wildest and most unspoiled beaches in Corsica. Some people even consider it the most beautiful beach on the island! If you want to visit the beach, take this day trip from Calvi, or this day trip from Bastia.

12. Hike to the Purcaraccia Waterfalls

If you love nature and adventure, the Purcaraccia Waterfalls in the Bavella Massif are another must-see! These stunning waterfalls cascade into crystal-clear pools, perfect for a refreshing post-hike swim. The hike to the falls is definitely challenging, with steep sections and uneven terrain, but the breathtaking views of granite cliffs and lush vegetation along the way make it worth it!

13. Stroll Around Sant’Antonino

For those who want to get a feel for authentic Coriscan living, a stroll around Sant’Antonino is perfect! Perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding plains, the village of Sant’Antonino is an authentic Corsican treasure. This historic village, one of the most beautiful on the island, has charming cobbled streets and colorful stone houses that seem straight out of a fairytale.

As one of the oldest villages in Corsica, Sant’Antonino takes you back in time, through its medieval architecture and the remains of its fortifications. Its small shady squares and breathtaking panoramas make it an ideal place to relax, where you can appreciate the tranquillity and history of Corsica’s rural heritage.

14. Climb Monte Cinto, Corsica’s Highest Peak

If you love hiking, you’ll love Monte Cinto! Reaching Corsica’s highest peak at 8,877 feet (2,706 m) is a real challenge, even for the most seasoned hikers. From the top, you’ll see dense forests, rocky ridges, and breathtaking views of the Corsican valleys and the Mediterranean Sea.

If you want to experience this adventure while exploring the surrounding area, this jeep tour of the Asco Valley is an ideal option. Although the full ascent of Monte Cinto is reserved for experienced hikers, this trip will take you to the heart of the Island of Beauty. You’ll be able to discover its foothills, and the route will also give you a glimpse of the region’s varied landscapes.

15. Discover Bastia and Its Cuisine

For any foodies visiting Corsica, make your way to Bastia. Located on Corsica’s northern coast, this historic port is full of local markets where you can sample local products such as figatellu, prisuttu, brocciu and casgiu merzu… Not to mention Corsican wines, with their unique flavors reflecting the island’s varied terroirs. In the picturesque streets of Bastia, you’ll also find plenty of restaurants where you can savor traditional dishes, a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Corsican influences.

In addition to its culinary delights, Bastia is rich in history. The citadel offers stunning views of the town, while the old town’s winding streets reveal charming architecture. Sainte-Marie Cathedral, a prime example of Corsican Baroque, is home to beautiful artwork and intricate details.

The Oratory of the Confrérie Saint-Roch, built in the 17th century, is another must-see, showcasing stunning religious art. Together, these landmarks reflect Bastia’s cultural heritage and historical importance in Corsica. You can explore Bastia’s most iconic landmarks and learn even more about its history if you join this private walking tour of Bastia.

With its unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Corsica is an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re hiking through its rugged mountains, relaxing on its stunning beaches, or exploring charming villages, the island offers something for every type of traveler. As always, be sure to check out the rest of the activities offered by Civitatis in Corsica to help you plan your dream Mediterranean holiday.