Virgin Voyages' guide to Ajaccio, Corsica, France
Filled with slopes and centuries worth of history, Ajaccio also boasts art (crafted both by nature or in the baroque period).
The magnetism of the Mediterranean
As a French commune only seven miles from the Italian island of Sardinia, Corsica is a blend of French and Italian culture. The locals feel more Italian than French but enjoy francophile staples like boulangeries and charcuterie. The capital port city, Ajaccio, sits on the western side of a natural paradise with astonishing peaks and sprawling beaches.
Ajaccio’s small streets are steeped in Napoleonic history including Maison Bonaparte, the infamous commander’s ancestral home. Tucked away in the mountainous countryside you’ll find vineyards, endless hiking trails and wild boar (see charcuterie). The Ajaccio Market displays fresh honey, organic wine and aromatherapy oils harvested from the hills. Ajaccio is a gateway to the beaches along Corsica’s shores and the forests, canyons and coves hidden in the Mediterranean mountains.
Shore Excursions
Around Ajaccio
The beach and mountains within reach.
Path Through Prunelli
Au revoir to the Corsican coast and bonjour to the island’s granite hills and small-town charm. Drive down a scenic highway and winding roads through the Prunelli Gorges to see Corsica’s natural beauty. Drive through the villages of Ocana and Tolla, then stop at Bastelicaccia to view the beautiful high granite houses and flourishing gardens. On the way to each stop, you’ll learn about history, geography, and cultural traditions.
Napoleon Invasion Tour
Follow Napoleon Bonaparte’s footsteps on a historical walking tour of Ajaccio’s Old Town. You’ll pass by the cathedral where Napoleon was baptized and visit multiple squares with statues dedicated to the man himself. You’ll have an hour to explore the Fesch Museum independently and visit the floors highlighting Napoleon. Then, you’ll finish the tour with an immersive cultural experience where you’ll be served traditional Spuntinu (small Corsican plates) as you watch a film about Napoleon’s life.
Local Artisans' Trio Tour
Immerse yourself in a region known for its obsession with terroir (or "sense of place") and its role in every crop, from heirloom tomatoes to wine. You’ll head to a bee farm to taste the sweetness of Corsican honey, learning the ecological benefits that beehives provide to the area. Smell the island's distinctive flora in the 13 aromatherapy and massage oils produced at an essential oil distillery. Wrap up the day with a glass of wine while savoring a small portion of local meats and cheeses.
More Shore Things for your wishlist...
We have even more in our curated catalog.
Name that language
Besides French, Corisican (which is similar to Italian) is widely spoken.
Corsica catches your attention with its rugged hills and sandy beaches. After a day of wandering along its streets and shores, Ajaccio will convince you to stay a little longer. Its French-like streets paired with an Italian mindset makes for a slower pace of life that redefines island time. The vistas from mountain peaks and Genoese watchtowers overlooking the Gulf of Ajaccio keep you in a state of awe. Whether you spent your time in Ajaccio by the beach or ventured inland to climb high peaks, a day in Corsica never disappoints. Napoleon Bonaparte may have put Ajaccio on the map but it still resides as a hidden gem in the Mediterranean.
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