Ajaccio Travel Guide
Towns and cities in Corsica
Ajaccio, the vibrant capital of Corsica, is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte and so the city is steeped in history, with its identity closely tied to the legendary figure. Set against the backdrop of stunning seascapes and rugged Corsican landscapes, Ajaccio’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions reflect a fusion of influences, creating a vibrant atmosphere that invites exploration and discovery.
About the area
Ajaccio, nestled on the west coast of Corsica, graces the shores of one of the island's most beautiful bays. Surrounded by lush hillsides and opening out to the Mediterranean Sea, the city is renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquil vibes. As a cultural and historical hub, Ajaccio invites visitors to explore its rich past through well-preserved sites and monuments that highlight its diverse heritage—from ancient Roman influences to Genoese fortifications. The city's atmosphere is enhanced by its vibrant markets and stunning beaches that provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure.
Things to do in Ajaccio
- Visit the local museums: In terms of culture, the most obvious point of departure is the museum of Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s childhood family home. If your thirst for knowledge, learning and pleasure is as yet unquenched, the Musée Fesch (once the residence of Napoleon’s half-uncle, Cardinal Fesch) is highly recommended. Amongst its highlights is a wonderful collection of Italian masterpieces, including works by Botticelli, Perugino, Michelangelo, Fra Bartolomeo, Titian, Veronese and Vasari.
- Admire the Genoese citadel: Wander around the mighty walls of the impressive 16th-century fortress that stands as a testament to Ajaccio’s strategic importance through the centuries.
- Stroll along Cours Napoleon: Enjoy the bustling main thoroughfare of Ajaccio, lined with statues, restaurants, cafes, shops and bars that spill out onto the pavements in the typical French style. You can also enjoy a stroll around the daily market in Place Foch, which fills the morning air with fragrant temptations.
- Relax in scenic surroundings: Ajaccio is also a city for sea lovers, and there is a great selection of sandy beaches to choose from, including one right below the citadel. Finally, as if there weren’t already enough to see and do, Ajaccio caters for walkers too. A path, the Chemin des Crêtes, leads from the centre of town up into the fragrant, maquis-carpeted hills to the west, from where spectacular vistas stretch out from Ajaccio across the sea to the Iles Sanguinaires, an archipelagic continuation of Tour de la Parata, a slender promontory at the southwestern-most tip of Ajaccio’s territory.
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