Ocean Cruising in Corsica, France
Why cruise Corsica
The picturesque Corsican capital, Ajaccio, is a highlight of a Mediterranean cruise. The birthplace of Napoleon is brimming with history and culture, as well as beautiful natural wonders waiting to be explored. The easy-going and laidback city is home to a postcard-perfect harbour, charming squares and lovely shops and restaurants – perfect for cruise passengers looking for a relaxing port of call that still has plenty to offer by way of culture. From the capital, you can venture further afield and discover the spectacular mountainous terrain of Corsica, which also features a variety of amazing gorges, the most famous of which is the Prunelli Gorges.
What to see and do
Old Town
If you don’t have long in Ajaccio, head straight to the old town, which includes the baroque 16th century cathedral, the Musée Fesch and continues up to and around Place Marechal Foch near the seafront. Wander along the old town’s narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured houses or savour one of the local wines from Ajaccio at one of the street cafés.
Maison Napoleon
The birthplace of French statesman and military leader Napoleon Bonaparte has become the one of Corsica island’s most historic sites. The Bonaparte family arrived in the Corsican capital in the late 15th century and owned the house from 1682 to 1923. Today, the family home has been turned into a museum and is filled with their personal possessions and furniture. If you want to uncover more Napoleonic history, then definitely also pay a visit to the Chapelle Impériale. Only open to visitors in the summer (tickets can be purchased from Palais Fesch), the crypt of the imperial chapel holds the tombs of Napoléon's parents and several other relatives.
Musée Fesch
This fine art museum was established by Napoleon’s uncle, cardinal Joseph Fesch, in the 19th century, and is today home to France’s largest collection of Italian paintings outside the Louvre, with works by Botticelli, Titian, Giovanni Bellini, and other old Italian masters. Displaying more than 400 works spread out over 27 rooms, notable paintings include Botticelli's Virgin and Child, Titian's Man with a Glove, and Paolo Veronese's Leda and the Swan.
Plage de Saint-François
It’s not one of Corsica’s famous beaches, but the town’s sandy Plage de Saint-François will certainly do for an afternoon soaking up the Mediterranean sun if you’re tired of sightseeing. The beach is conveniently located in the city centre and is the perfect spot to enjoy sundowners.
Iles Sanguinaires
If you have time, take a boat tour along the scenic peninsula of the Iles Sanguinaires (the ‘Bloody Islands’). Located at the entry of the gulf of Ajaccio, the archipelago gets its emblematic name from the four porphyry islets, which are dark red in colour. Another striking feature here is the lighthouse, which dates back to 1870 and is situated on the highest point of the largest island. Head up here to enjoy panoramic views.
Canyoning
If you’re happy to travel, then a visit to one of Corsica’s stunning canyons is a must. Cruise lines including Princess and Celebrity offer excursions to Prunelli Gorges, featuring red granite cliffs and surrounded by pine forests. Here guests can enjoy activities including rafting and canyoning. For the more active among you, Celebrity also offers guided kayaking along the Ajaccio gulf.
Need to know when travelling to Corsica
Getting around in Corsica
It is an incredibly convenient three minutes’ walk from the cruise dock to the main square, while the older part of town is situated a couple of minutes farther south. From here you are in close proximity to the town’s sandy beach, Plage de Saint-François. The town can easily be explored on foot, but there’s also a bus and train service in Ajaccio. Boat trips to popular spots like Iles Sanguinaires are also available.
When to go to Corsica
The best time to visit Ajaccio is from late April to early June if you wish to avoid the crowds. August is typically the busiest and hottest month.
Currency
Ajaccio in Corsica uses the euro.
Visas
You do not require a visa to visit Corsica from the UK.
Corsica is a paradise on earth