12 Best Things To Do In Corsica, France

Corsica may be separated from mainland France by the Mediterranean, but it remains to be one of the best places to visit in the country.

With its breathtaking natural attractions and unique culture, a visit to Corsica is bound to be busy yet rewarding.

READ MORE: Best Hotels In Corsica.

From scenic drives and challenging hikes to a literal taste of what the island had to offer, here are the best things to do in Corsica, France.

12 Best Things To Do in Corsica, France

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1. Explore Cap Corse in Corsica

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The Cap Corse in the northernmost tip of Corsica is known for its scenic landscapes comprised of foothills and fertile valleys, medieval villages, and old fishing ports.

Cap Corse is known as one of the prettiest places to visit in Corsica and must-see if you have more than a day to spare.

The area is also known because of the Plage de Farinole, a stunning sandy beach that’s ideal for relaxing and strolls by the shore as well as a haven for surfers.

2. Enjoy the sights at Calanques de Piana

The breathtaking Calanques de Piana one is easily one of the best things to do in Corsica.

The obscure rick rock formations are some of the most stunning sights in the island, and they are named individually, too!

Some of these rock formations are the La Tête du Chien or the “dog’s head” and La Tortue or “the turtle”.

The area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and can be easily accessed by car, or the many hiking trails that lead to the stunning Calanques de Piana.

3. Beaches near Porto Vecchio, Corsica

Some of the best sandy beaches in Corsica are around the old port town of Porto Vecchio in the island’s southeast.

If you’re here in the summer, beach hopping in this area is one of the best things to do in Corsica. These beaches are known for fine sand, crystal clear waters, and stunning views of the Mediterranean are.

Some of the best beaches near Porto Vecchio are the popular Plage de Palombaggia,  with its wide sandy shores, the scenic Plage de Santa Giulia, and less crowded Plage de Rondinara on the Rondinara Bay.

4. Visit Maison Bonaparte in Ajaccio, Corsica

Learn more about one of the most prominent figures in French history, Napoleon Bonaparte by vesting his birthplace.

Located in the Corsican capital of Ajaccio, this historical monument and museum is one of the best places to see in Corsica.

Inside Maison Bonaparte, you’ll find well-preserved furniture as well as the Bonaparte family’s personal items.

5. Enjoy Art at Palais Fesch Musée des Beaux-Arts

Established by the cardinal Joseph Fesch, who is also Napoleon’s uncle, this fine arts museum is one of Corsica’s best attractions.

The Palais Fesch Musée des Beaux-Arts is home to an important collection of Napoleonic pieces, including sculptures. It also houses the largest collection of Italian paintings in France outside of the Louvre.

Some of the best things to see here are the works of masters such as Botticelli, Bellini, and Titian, as well as an impressive collection of Italian and Corsican artworks from the 17th-20th centuries.

6. Hike up Monte Cinto

If you love the outdoors, then a trek up Monte Cinto is the best thing to do in Corsica for you.

It is the highest mountain in Corsica, and on good weather, one can even see all the way to Rome in Italy from the top. The way to the top is pretty challenging, but the hike can be completed in one day.

7. Explore Richiusa Canyon

Corsica’s diverse landscapes make it a haven for adventurers. If you’re up for some canyoning, then the Richiusa Canyon is the best place to visit in Corsica for you.

The canyon is only 45 minutes away from Ajaccio, a stunning area with temperate weather that’s ideal for many types of activities.

Aside from a canyoning tour, the area is also perfect for abseiling, skidding, sliding, and even swimming with its cool, clear waters.

8. Wander around Sartène

Located in the southwest of Corsica, Sartène is said to be the region’s “most Corsican” city.

Established in the 16th century, this hilltop town is recognized as a “Ville d’Art et d’Histoire” (City of Art and History) because of its rich heritage.

A Corsica attraction in itself, a walk through the streets of Sartène is the best way to explore this town.

Some of the best sights are the typically Corsican Eglise Santa-Maria-Assunta; the Palais des Gouverneurs Génois, or the Town Hall; the Musée de la Préhistoire (Museum of Prehistory); and Place du Maghju, for cool artisan souvenirs.

9. Scenic drive around Col de Bavella

Corsica’s scenic landscapes make it an ideal place for a driving tour. One of the best routes to take is the Col de Bavella, which is along the path of an ancient Roman road.

It has some of the most spectacular sceneries in Corsica, as the route passes through mountains, forests, plains, and along the coast.

10. Extreme hiking on the GR20 Trail

For the more experienced adventurers looking for a more challenging hike, tackling the GR20 Trail is the best thing to do in Corsica.

This trail is considered as Europe’s most difficult long-distance hikes, because of its length a d the rugged terrain.

The GR20 Trail encompasses the island of Corsica from north to south, through wild hillsides and deep gorges. It is a must experience for the nature-loving adventurer, as the hike offers plenty of breathtaking views.

11. Visit the Wine Route

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Many wine enthusiasts will agree that Corsica produces excellent wines. Exploring its wine route is definitely among the best things to do in Corsica.

The island’s largest vineyards also offer tours and free samples so you’ll literally get a taste of Corsica when you visit.

Most Corsican wines are also served in the local restaurants so visitors get to try them as well when paired with some local dishes.

12. Discover Corsica’s Cuisine

A visit to any place in France isn’t complete without sampling their food. Corsica is no exception, with its diverse and rich cuisine.

Most dishes are meat-based and go well with the wines produced in the region.

Some of the must-try local specialties are the local sheep or goat cheese brocciu; figatellu, a fresh sausage made from pork liver; stir-fry veal with olives and pasta and a traditional Corsican dessert called fiadone.

If you’re going to Corsica and don’t know where to stay yet, here’s our list of best hotels in Corsica. 

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