Corsica is not a destination that fits neatly into categories—it stretches between coastal towns, prehistoric ruins, natural reserves, and small cities that still feel grounded in the rhythms of local life.
This travel itinerary ebook brings together a curated route through Corsica, helping travelers move freely from the south’s white beaches to the granite mountains of the center and the rugged charm of the north.
Ajaccio, the island’s capital, is a natural starting point. The presence of Napoleon lingers through sites like Bonaparte House and the Citadel, but the city also offers a relaxed introduction to Corsican daily life, with its seaside promenades and shaded streets.
From here, the landscape begins to shift. The route continues through Filitosa, one of Corsica’s key archaeological sites, and into towns like Sartene, where the slower tempo of inland life invites longer stops.
In the south, Bonifacio stands out—its cliffs and harbor are impressive, but so is the atmosphere of the old town. From there, the nearby beaches tell their own story: Rondinara, Santa Giulia, Palombaggia, and La Tonnara each offer a different balance of accessibility and seclusion, while the boat ride to the Lavezzi Islands adds a more remote experience for those drawn to nature.
Porto-Vecchio blends history with vibrant beach life, and moving north from here, the itinerary crosses into the more untamed side of the island. Saleccia Beach and the Desert des Agriates remain some of Corsica’s least altered coastal spots, reachable with a bit of planning, but always worth the effort.
Bastia and Calvi give a different rhythm—busy in the right ways, yet still unmistakably Corsican in their scale and style.
The inland part of the route, especially around Corte, contrasts clearly with the coast. It offers mountain air and quiet views, and walking paths that open up beyond the main road.
Nature plays a leading role in the northwest too, especially in the Scandola Natural Reserve and the Gulf of Porto. The Calanques de Piana offer a dramatic finale—or beginning—depending on where you choose to start.
