How to Spend 3 Days in CORSICA France | Travel Itinerary

How to Spend 3 Days in CORSICA France | Travel Itinerary

[Music] imagine standing a top dramatic granite cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, medieval citadels perched on clifftops, and pristine beaches that rival the Caribbean. Planning three days in Corsica, but overwhelmed by this Mediterranean gem’s incredible diversity? This video reveals exactly how to experience the perfect blend of stunning coastlines, historic towns, and mountain adventures without missing the hidden spots that make locals protective of their island paradise. We’re covering the must-sea beaches of Portovecio, the dramatic citadel of Bonafasio, secret swimming holes in the mountains, where to taste authentic Corsican cuisine, and the one transportation mistake that’ll waste your entire first day. This is how to spend 3 days in Corsica. Let’s dive in. Day one, get your bearings. Start your Corsican adventure in Ajoxio, the island’s capital and Napoleon’s birthplace. Fly directly into Napoleon Bonapart airport, which is perfectly positioned just 5 km from the city center, taking around 15 to 20 minutes by car or taxi. Most major European cities offer direct flights with Air France, Air Corsica, and EasyJet providing regular services. Pro tip: book your rental car directly at the airport to avoid the hassle of city pickup locations. Begin at 9:00 a.m. with a stroll through Ajaxio’s charming old town. The narrow streets lined with pastel-coled buildings create the perfect Mediterranean atmosphere. Visit Maison Bonapart, Napoleon’s childhood home, now a fascinating museum showcasing the emperor’s early years. Entry requires advanced reservation through the official booking system and provides genuine insight into one of history’s most influential figures. Don’t miss the room where Napoleon was actually born. It’s surprisingly modest for such a worldchanging figure. The nearby Ajoxio Cathedral, where Napoleon was baptized, offers beautiful Baroque architecture and costs nothing to explore. For an authentic cultural experience, visit the Musea Fesh, housing France’s largest collection of Italian paintings outside the Louvre. The museum established by Napoleon’s uncle Cardinal Fesh, contains works by Bodicelli and Tishon. Entry costs $10 full price, $7 reduced rate, and provides air conditioned rest bit during hot summer days. For lunch, head to the bustling plus Foch Market, operating Tuesday through Sunday mornings from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. with Monday operations added during summer months. Sample local specialties like Figatelloo sausage, brochu cheese, and honey from the makis. The market buzzes with authentic Corsican life and provides perfect photo opportunities. The afternoon calls for a scenic drive along the route deinire leading to the dramatic eel sanuinire. These red granite islands create spectacular sunset viewpoints especially from the point de la paratha lighthouse. The coastal road offers numerous stopping points with pristine beaches like plage de grapo defeno. Popular with surfers but perfect for anyone seeking dramatic coastal scenery. End your day with dinner at Lrron Cafe Napoleon on Core Napoleon, where traditional Corsican dishes meet contemporary presentation. Expect to spend around 45 to 65 US per person for a quality three course meal with local wine. Try the Wild Boore stew or fresh seafood caught that morning. The restaurant’s terrace provides excellent people watching opportunities as locals enjoy their evening paced. Tomorrow, we’re heading to what many consider the Mediterranean’s most dramatic coastline, where ancient citadels meet impossibly blue waters. Day two, adventure day. Rise early for the 2-hour drive south to Bonafasio, arguably Corsica’s most spectacular destination. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, winding through Cork Forests and offering glimpses of the dramatic coastline ahead. Stop at Sartine, the most Corsican of Corsican towns, for a quick coffee and to stretch your legs in this beautifully preserved medieval village. Bonafasio sits majestically at top limestone cliffs 70 m above the Mediterranean. Start exploring the Oatville, the medieval citadel accessible through the ancient Port Dean. The cobblestone streets wind between 13th century buildings leading to the church of S Marie Majour and the pale deuver. Don’t miss the grain of sand, a massive limestone boulder precariously balanced on the cliff edge. It’s become one of Bonafatio’s most photographed landmarks. The real magic happens when you descend the famous King of Aragon steps. 187 steps carved directly into the cliff face. These steps, once used to carry water to the citadel above, now provide access to secret beaches and offer incredible photography opportunities. Entry costs $5.50 US per person. Helmets are mandatory for safety and proper closed shoes are required. The descent takes about 15 minutes, but the views are absolutely unforgettable. For lunch, book a table at Lonfame on Monte Rustello near the Citadel. This highly rated intimate restaurant serves exceptional Corsican cuisine with harbor views. Their seafood specialties and local goat cheese dishes perfectly capture the island’s flavors. Budget around $50 to $65 per person based on current menu pricing. If Lonfime is fully booked, try Cantina Dora, another excellent choice offering traditional Corsican specialties at more moderate prices around $38 per person. Multiple operators offer boat trips from Bonifasio’s marina to the Levi Islands. SPMBB Soiet de Prnad on Merida de Bonifasio provides regular excursions with departures approximately every hour from 9:30 a.m. The 30inut journey to the islands costs around 28 to 38 US per adult for the roundtrip service with no advanced reservations possible. Tickets must be purchased at their harbor kiosk. These granite islands offer pristine beaches, crystalclear snorkeling opportunities, and landscapes so dramatic they seem almost otherworldly. Alternatively, explore the famous sea caves along Bonafasio’s coastline. The Grotto Draonato and Grotto de Santoan showcase incredible limestone formations carved by millennia of Mediterranean storms. Most boat tours include these caves in their itineraries. For dinner, visit Achetta on Quai Bond del Faroh in the lower harbor. This restaurant specializes in fresh seafood and offers spectacular views of the illuminated citadel reflecting in the dark waters below. Their buoyabes and grilled langustine represent Corsican coastal cuisine at its finest. Book a table on the terrace to watch the sunset paint the limestone cliffs in golden hues. Day three takes us into Corsica’s wild interior where granite peaks hide swimming holes that feel like natural water parks. Day three, hidden gems and mountain majesty. Depart Bonafasio early for the scenic 90-minute drive to Zanza, gateway to Corsica’s dramatic mountain interior. The route winds through the Altaraka region, offering spectacular views of granite spires and dense forests. Zansza serves as the perfect base for exploring the legendary Aguo’s debella. Among Corsica’s most photographed landmarks, these dramatic granite needles rise like ancient cathedral spires from emerald forests, creating landscapes that seem more fantasy than reality. The Cole Deavlla at 1,200 m elevation provides access to numerous hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels. Stop at the coal itself for mandatory photos with the massive statue of Notream D watching over travelers since 1954. For a moderate adventure, tackle the True Debomb Trail, a 2-hour round trip leading to a massive natural rock arch. The trail went through pine forests and granite boulders culminating in views that extend to the Mediterranean. Pack water and snacks as mountain weather can change quickly. The hole in the rock formation was created by millions of years of erosion and provides a natural window frame for photographing the surrounding peaks. More adventurous souls should consider canyoning in the Solenzara River system. Professional guides from Corsica Adventure offer half-day excursions for around $80 US per person. You’ll jump into emerald pools, slide down natural water slides, and repel beside waterfalls in nature’s ultimate playground. No prior experience necessary, but reasonable fitness levels are required. For lunch, stop at Hotel Lurism in Zanza Village. Their restaurant serves hearty mountain cuisine, perfect for refueling after morning adventures. Try the traditional Corsican palenta with wild boar, or the chestnut flower pancakes, unique to the island’s interior. Prices range from 28 to $43 per person. The terrace provides excellent views of the surrounding peaks while you dine. The afternoon brings opportunities to discover the Pines Davu. Natural rock pools formed by centuries of flowing water. These crystal clearar swimming holes accessible via a 30inut forest walk provide the perfect refreshing escape. The granite formations create natural diving platforms and sunbathing areas surrounded by dense mache vegetation. Return to your coastal accommodation for dinner at one of the region’s exceptional restaurants. If staying near Port Oveio, book Usant Marina for a Michelin starred experience showcasing the finest Corsican ingredients. This restaurant earned its star in 2018 and offers spectacular views across Santa Julia Bay. Their tasting menu celebrates local produce with dishes like lobster flamade in local spirits and perfectly prepared local seafood. Expect to pay premium prices for this level of culinary artistry. Alternatively, for more casual dining, try sheamarie in propriano, beloved by locals for generous portions of traditional dishes. Their figotellu pasta and homemade Fodoni dessert, provide authentic corsin flavors without pretention. Essential practical information. Transportation. Ferry services from mainland France start around $100 US per person one way from ports like S to Bastia with premium routes and peak season pricing reaching $450 to $500. Major operators include Corsica fairies, Moby Lines and La Miridonal offering regular services. Car rental is essential for exploring beyond major towns. Expect to pay 65 to $110 daily for compact vehicles. The scenic Corsican Railway offers a pass liberta for unlimited 7-day travel, providing stunning mountain views between major cities. Accommodation budget travelers can find host and guest houses for $55 to $85 nightly. Mid-range hotels like Best Western Premier Santa Maria or Hotel Bartacatcha offer comfort and location for 160 to $320. Luxury options include Hotel Marinka and Spa or Les Berie de Palumbagia ranging from $430 to $850 per night during peak season. Food, market meals, and casual dining average 22 to $38 per person. Fine dining experiences range from 65 to $130. Local specialties include brochu cheese, figotellu sausage, wild boar stew, and chestnut-based desserts. Weather and packing. May through October offers ideal weather for all activities, pack layers for mountain excursions, comfortable walking shoes for citadel exploration, and swimwear for beaches and natural pools. Summer temperatures reach 30° C, while spring and autumn hover around 20 to 25°. Booking strategy. Reserve fairies and accommodations four to five months ahead for summer travel. Mountain activities and boat excursions can often be booked day of during shoulder seasons, but summer requires advanced planning. Mistakes to avoid. Transportation errors. Never assume you can explore Corsica without a rental car. Public transportation is extremely limited outside major towns and taxis are prohibitively expensive for sightseeing. Book your vehicle rental in advance, especially during summer months when availability becomes scarce. Weather underestimation. Mountain weather changes rapidly, even during summer. Bring layers and rain protection for interior excursions. Coastal areas can experience strong winds that make boat trips uncomfortable or cancelled entirely. Timing disasters. Avoid visiting during French school holidays in July and August when beaches become overcrowded and prices skyrocket. The first two weeks of August represent peak congestion. Instead, choose May, June, September, or October for better weather, fewer crowds, and lower costs. Restaurant assumptions. Many restaurants close on Sundays or Mondays, particularly in smaller towns, and some close entirely during offseason months. Always verify opening hours before making dinner plans. Additionally, dinner service rarely begins before 7:30 p.m. following French dining customs. Popular restaurants like Lanfaim and Bonifacio require advanced reservations, especially during peak season. Ferry planning failures. Ferry schedules vary dramatically by season with many routes operating only during summer months. Book tickets well in advance and arrive at ports at least 1 hour before departure if traveling as foot passenger and 90 minutes early if traveling with a vehicle during peak season to avoid missing departures due to traffic and check-in procedures. So there you have it. 3 days that’ll give you both the Instagram shots and authentic experience most travelers never discover. This is Explorers Radar where we uncover the best travel experiences without the tourist traps. Which day appeals to you most? Let me know in the comments. And don’t forget to like this video, subscribe to the channel, and turn on notifications if it helped with your Corsican planning. And check out the next video for another incredible destination worth adding to your travel list. See you there.

How to Spend 3 Days in CORSICA France | Travel Itinerary

Subscribe to Explorer’s Radar 👉 https://bit.ly/46hKecg

WATCH NEXT 👇
How to Spend 3 Days in DA NANG Vietnam | Travel Itinerary

For any copyright issues please contact us at: yteekiwi@gmail.com

Imagine standing atop dramatic granite cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, medieval citadels perched on clifftops, and pristine beaches that rival the Caribbean. Planning three days in Corsica but overwhelmed by this Mediterranean gem’s incredible diversity? This video reveals exactly how to experience the perfect blend of stunning coastlines, historic towns, and mountain adventures without missing the hidden spots that make locals protective of their island paradise. We’re covering the must-see beaches of Porto-Vecchio, the dramatic citadel of Bonifacio, secret swimming holes in the mountains, where to taste authentic Corsican cuisine, and the one transportation mistake that’ll waste your entire first day. This is how to spend three days in Corsica. Let’s dive in!

Day One: Get Your Bearings
Start your Corsican adventure in Ajaccio, the island’s capital and Napoleon’s birthplace. Fly directly into Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, which is perfectly positioned just five kilometers from the city center, taking around fifteen to twenty minutes by car or taxi. Most major European cities offer direct flights, with Air France, Air Corsica, and easyJet providing regular services. Pro tip: book your rental car directly at the airport to avoid the hassle of city pickup locations.
Begin at nine AM with a stroll through Ajaccio’s charming old town. The narrow streets lined with pastel-colored buildings create the perfect Mediterranean atmosphere. Visit Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s childhood home, now a fascinating museum showcasing the emperor’s early years. Entry requires advance reservation through the official booking system and provides genuine insight into one of history’s most influential figures. Don’t miss the room where Napoleon was actually born – it’s surprisingly modest for such a world-changing figure. The nearby Ajaccio Cathedral, where Napoleon was baptized, offers beautiful baroque architecture and costs nothing to explore.
For an authentic cultural experience, visit the Musée Fesch, housing France’s largest collection of Italian paintings outside the Louvre. The museum, established by Napoleon’s uncle Cardinal Fesch, contains works by Botticelli and Titian. Entry costs ten US dollars full price, seven US dollars reduced rate, and provides air-conditioned respite during hot summer days.
For lunch, head to the bustling Place Foch market, operating Tuesday through Sunday mornings from seven AM to one PM, with Monday operations added during summer months. Sample local specialties like figatellu sausage, brocciu cheese, and honey from the maquis. The market buzzes with authentic Corsican life and provides perfect photo opportunities.
The afternoon calls for a scenic drive along the Route des Sanguinaires, leading to the dramatic Iles Sanguinaires. These red granite islands create spectacular sunset viewpoints, especially from the Pointe de la Parata lighthouse. The coastal road offers numerous stopping points with pristine beaches like Plage de Grand Capo di Feno, popular with surfers but perfect for anyone seeking dramatic coastal scenery.
End your day with dinner at Le Grand Café Napoléon on Cours Napoléon, where traditional Corsican dishes meet contemporary presentation. Expect to spend around forty-five to sixty-five US dollars per person for a quality three-course meal with local wine. Try the wild boar stew or fresh seafood caught that morning. The restaurant’s terrace provides excellent people-watching opportunities as locals enjoy their evening passeggiata.
Tomorrow, we’re heading to what many consider the Mediterranean’s most dramatic coastline, where ancient citadels meet impossibly blue waters.

Day Two: Adventure Day
Rise early for the two-hour drive south to Bonifacio, arguably Corsica’s most spectacular destination. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, winding through cork oak forests and offering glimpses of the dramatic coastline ahead. Stop at Sartène, the “most Corsican of Corsican towns,” for a quick coffee and to stretch your legs in this beautifully preserved medieval village.
Bonifacio sits majestically atop limestone cliffs seventy meters above the Mediterranean. Start exploring the Haute Ville, the medieval citadel accessible through the ancient Porte de Gênes. The cobblestone streets wind between thirteen-century buildings, leading to the Church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure and the Palais des Gouverneurs Génois. Don’t miss the Grain of Sand, a massive limestone boulder precariously balanced on the cliff edge – it’s become one of Bonifacio’s most photographed landmarks.
The real magic happens when you descend the famous King of Aragon