- Corsica
Ajaccio, Corsica
Ajaccio, birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, combines Corsican character with an unmistakable air of elegance. Pastel-hued buildings line graceful promenades and handsome squares, while pavement cafés spill onto the streets, creating a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Why visit Ajaccio?
- A chance to explore Corsica's capital
- Its fascinating history as Napoleon's birthplace
- Soak up the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere
Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and the island’s largest city, with a graceful blend of history, Mediterranean charm and modern life. Its most famous son, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born here, and his legacy is woven throughout the city, from museums and monuments to the streets and squares that shaped his early life. Yet Ajaccio wears its history lightly, making it feel like a living, elegant Mediterranean city rather than a place preserved in time. The surrounding area of Corsica’s capital is sure to charm any visitor; discover more of the region during your stay.
Explore the city
Make sure to soak up the café culture, markets, history and architecture of this wonderful capital city.
Bay of Sagone
Long sandy beaches characterise Corsica's largest Gulf, the Bay of Sagone, stretching 40km down the west coast to the north of Ajaccio.
Walk les Crêtes ridge
Take the breathtaking walks along the lush green ridge of hills known as the famous 'les Crêtes', just a short drive from Ajaccio centre.
An in-depth guide to Ajaccio
A useful arrival base for your Corsican holiday, Ajaccio is well worth exploring. The old town is a pleasure to explore, with narrow streets, pastel-coloured buildings and a wonderfully varied collection of architecture, including the striking cathedral. Along the waterfront, the harbour is filled with yachts and boats arriving from French ports including Marseille, Nice and Toulon, giving Ajaccio a distinctly Riviera-like atmosphere. Pavement cafés and restaurants make the seafront an appealing place to linger and watch the world go by.
For a quieter change of pace, head north to the Gulf of Sagone, a sweeping bay between the Gulfs of Ajaccio and Porto. The surrounding hills are cloaked in fragrant maquis, while oak and olive trees frame a succession of beautiful beaches. It is an excellent choice for walkers and beach lovers looking to experience a more peaceful side of western Corsica, while Ajaccio itself offers a lively base with a good choice of hotels, restaurants and amenities.