Summary of Top Attractions in Ajaccio
The capital of the Corse-du-Sud effectively showcases all of the elements that visitors cherish about Corsica.
Rich in history, it is notable as the birthplace and baptism location of Napoleon Bonaparte, with his family having generously contributed numerous fascinating artifacts to the museums.
Dramatic natural beauty can be found at Pointe de la Parata, merely minutes from the city, or in the surrounding mountains adorned with wild herbs, heather, and myrtle shrubs.
Furthermore, the area boasts an abundance of exquisite beaches characterized by their soft, white sands and crystal-clear azure waters.
Let’s delve into the best activities to experience in Ajaccio:
1. Pointe de la Parata
On an island where remarkable natural wonders are nearly ubiquitous, Pointe de la Parata still manages to leave visitors speechless.
This black granite promontory marks the northern boundary of the Bay of Ajaccio, situated at the terminus of a rugged chain of cliffs that extend offshore to form the Sanguinaires Islands.
The headland is topped by a Genoese watchtower, soaring 55 meters above the sea, constructed as part of a defensive network against 16th-century Barbary pirate incursions.
A drive to the nearby restaurant provides access to a walking trail, allowing visitors to explore the tower more closely or enjoy the exquisite waters.
2. Route des Sanguinaires
Leading from the southern coastline of Ajaccio is a scenic route that leads to Pointe de Parata.
This path includes the “Corniche Ajaccienne,” a winding road that elegantly follows the rugged coastal line.
It offers breathtaking views of the Sanguinaires Islands and Ajaccio’s finest beaches, including Plage de Marinella.
Along the route lies the Saint-Antoine Cemetery, the final resting place of renowned Corsican singer Tino Rossi.
Alternatively, you may wish to undertake a similar journey on foot via the Sentier des Crêtes (Crest Trail), traversing the ridge high above coastal developments amid pinewood, prickly pears, and blooming myrtle, providing uplifting vistas of the sea.
3. Musée Fesch
Ajaccio’s Museum of Fine Arts is named in honor of Napoleon’s uncle, Joseph Fesch, who served as the archbishop of Lyon.
Established in the early 1800s, the museum originates from his extensive collection of paintings, making it one of the largest compilations of Italian Baroque and Renaissance art in France.
It features prominent artists such as Cosmè Tura, Giovanni Bellini, Michelangelo, Veronese, Titian, and Salvatore Rosa.
Additionally, the Fesch Museum provides insight into the history of the Bonaparte family, housing approximately 700 works related to the First and Second Empires, along with busts representing the Bonaparte lineage.
4. Maison Bonaparte
As the birthplace of Napoleon, this landmark carries significance beyond its physical attributes.
One simply needs to recognize that this is the residence where an influential figure was born on 15 August 1769. The house is adorned with furnishings from the Bonaparte family, inviting visitors to imagine the ambiance of the 18th century.
The first Bonaparte resident of this humble four-storey house was Napoleon’s great-great-grandfather, who lived here in the late 17th century, and the building remained within the family until 1923. Napoleon’s early years were spent here, providing a wealth of information regarding the imperial family’s ties to Ajaccio.
5. Salons Napoléoniens
Situated in Ajaccio’s town hall, a meticulously decorated gallery features an extensive collection of sculptures, paintings, medals, and engravings related to Napoleon, all generously donated to the city by the Bonaparte family until 1936. This vast array of art and memorabilia spills over into the Fesch Museum.
The focal point within the town hall is particularly captivating, as visitors can follow their journey through Ajaccio’s Bonaparte history by viewing the register documenting Napoleon’s baptism.
Adorning the damask walls are a full-length portrait of Napoleon, paintings of Napoléon III and Empress Eugénie, as well as a depiction of Napoleon’s brother Joseph when he was proclaimed King of Spain during the Peninsular Wars.
6. Plage de Capo di Feno
Ajaccio boasts over 20 beaches in or near its vicinity, primarily vibrant spots featuring clear, smooth waters and soft sands.
If you seek a respite from crowded areas, a short drive of 10 kilometers north of Pointe de la Parata will lead you to Plage de Capo di Feno, characterized by its untamed beauty, with surrounding scrubland and forest, while an offshore sandbar provides ideal conditions for surfers.
This location may not cater to casual swimming, but visitors can enjoy wading in the waves and sunbathing on the soft sands.
Gather friends and a blanket and remain until evening, as the sunsets here are truly remarkable on this west-facing beach.
7. Place Foch
Adjacent to the town hall, an elongated square is adorned with impressive palm trees.
In the center stands a marble statue of Napoleon depicted as a Roman consul, sculpted by Massimiliano Laboureur, gazing towards the port.
The Petit Train operates from Place Foch, providing a comfortable means to explore Ajaccio’s attractions.
However, one compelling reason to visit is the Marchés des Producteurs de Pays on Saturday mornings, where local sheep’s cheese, cured meats, olives, and wines from the Corsican countryside are remarkably displayed across stalls.
8. Ajaccio Cathedral
Continuing along the path of Napoleon, Ajaccio Cathedral is significant as the site of the emperor’s baptism on 21 July 1771. It is noteworthy that during the Mass of the Assumption on 15 August 1769, Napoleon’s mother, Letizia, went into labor with him. The marble font where he was baptized is located just inside the entrance.
Aside from its connection to Napoleon, the cathedral is an elegant, albeit austere, 16th-century edifice with ochre walls that radiate brightly in the sunlight.
Take a moment to admire the Chapel of the Madonna of Pianto, embellished with murals by Domenico Tintoretto (the son of Jacopo) and Eugène Delacroix.
9. Tête de Mort
To fully appreciate the scenery, consider embarking on a hike early on a summer morning, replete with stunning coastal vistas.
The trail ascends from the Bois des Anglais, meandering through a diverse landscape of mastic shrubs, cacti, and wild olive vegetation characteristic of the famed Corsican maquis.
In due course, the path leads to an ominous granite boulder named Tête de Mort (Head of Death), which local lore claims is the petrified head of Lucifer. The trail loops back to meet the sea at Parc Berthault, conveniently located a few steps from Plage du Trottel, offering a journey of approximately 90 minutes.
10. A Cupulatta
Located approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Ajaccio, this sanctuary and research center is home to turtles and tortoises from five continents.
Housing around 3000 animals across 170 species, the Corsican climate and meticulously designed habitats within the two-hectare park provide a conducive environment for their well-being.
The turtle hatchery and nursery are sure to bring joy; should you visit on the right day, you might witness a baby turtle hatching from its egg.
The transition from Galápagos tortoises to smaller European pond terrapins serves as an illustrative testament to their evolutionary adaptation across various regions of the globe.
11. Plage d’Argent
From the port in Ajaccio, visitors can board a speedboat that will transport them to this idyllic beach situated to the south of the city.
This method is the swiftest route, taking approximately 20 minutes as the crow flies, in contrast to the hour-long drive on winding mountain roads.
The pristine white sand beach stretching over a kilometer along the shallow bay will reveal why this journey is worthwhile.
The water is remarkably clear, remaining at a gentle knee-height just ten meters from the shore.
In the backdrop exist a few residences and eateries nestled amidst hills adorned with pines, heather, and myrtle.
12. Watersports
A comprehensive list of local providers offering aquatic activities such as paddle boarding, sea kayaking, diving, surfing, and guided snorkeling would be extensive, with as many as 50 present in the region. Nearly every beach in Ajaccio features a watersports center, while the port offers various yacht charter companies providing both crewed and bareboat rentals.
For those wishing to hire a jet ski without possession of a boat license, it can be accomplished when accompanied by a qualified supervisor.
Operators like “Hiking Jet Passion” also provide guided excursions to explore the most stunning coves within the Gulf of Ajaccio.
13. Scandola Cruises
The port also hosts numerous cruise companies offering day trips along Corsica’s western coastline to the UNESCO-protected Scandola Nature Reserve, renowned for its striking basalt and granite rock formations.
The breathtaking views of towering cliffs and creeks plunging into the sea from hundreds of meters above will leave a lasting impression.
During the cruise, your captain may anchor at a beachside café for lunch and, if fortunate, you may encounter dolphins, monk seals, and predatory birds along the way.
Many companies also pause at a secluded cove, allowing guests to enjoy swimming in crystal-clear rock pools for approximately an hour.
14. Lac de Tolla
Situated 30 kilometers inland from Ajaccio, Lac de Tolla is an artificial reservoir established in the 1950s by an EDF dam.
This expansive water body spans five square kilometers, nestled within mountainous terrain dotted with chestnut, walnut, holm oak, and pine trees.
Campsites line the shores, while a marina operates in the summer, offering pedal boats, canoes, and paddleboards for rent.
Lac de Tolla also serves as an excellent starting point for a hike into Prunelli Gorge, characterized by steep cliffs and sparkling rock pools at the base of cascading waters.
Alternatively, you may choose to arrive by road, if you do not mind navigating hairpin turns over drops exceeding 100 meters.
15. Food Excursions
Corsican honey enjoys the distinction of having European Protected Designation of Origin status. If you are curious about the origins of food products, you will find seven “mielleries” or apiaries in proximity to Ajaccio—though one visit may suffice! You can participate in tours of dairy farms producing sheep’s and goat’s cheeses or visit a farm that specializes in unique flavored vinegars and mustards.
Ajaccio also boasts its own AOC designation, with vineyards on sunny slopes cultivating sciaccarello grapes used to produce bold red wines with distinctive spicy notes.
