Things to Do in Ajaccio, Corsica, France

• Old Town (Vieux Ajaccio): The historic center of Ajaccio is a charming area with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a lively ambiance. It's a great place to wander around, explore local shops, and indulge in some traditional Corsican cuisine at numerous restaurants and cafes.

• For 8 euros, you can hop onboard the Le Petit Train for a 45-minute city tour. Thanks to its great maneuverability, the Petit train is the only one that can comfortably walk you through the narrow streets of the old town. It is a guided tour around the city and you are free to jump off and on as you wish. Be sure to keep your train ticket handy if you decide to jump off and later on jump back on.

• Citadel of Ajaccio: Overlooking the city, the Citadel is a historic fortress that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Ajaccio and the surrounding area. It dates back to the 16th century and is an interesting site to visit for history enthusiasts.

• Fesch Museum: This art museum, named after Cardinal Joseph Fesch, uncle of Napoleon, houses an extensive collection of Italian paintings from the 14th to 19th centuries. Art lovers will appreciate the masterpieces on display.

• Boat tours and water activities: Given its coastal location, Ajaccio offers various boat tours, cruises, and water activities, allowing visitors to explore the coastline, nearby islands, and marine life. You can take a ferry to Sardinia

• Local cuisine: Corsica is renowned for its unique and delicious cuisine. Ajaccio's restaurants and markets offer a chance to taste traditional Corsican dishes, which often include local cheeses, cured meats, and flavorful seafood.

• Festivals and events: Throughout the year, Ajaccio hosts various festivals and events that celebrate Corsican culture, history, and traditions. These events can offer a deeper insight into the island's way of life. On August 15, Napoleon birthday is widely celebrated throughout Ajaccio with fireworks, festivals and other activities.

• Beaches: Ajaccio boasts several stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters and picturesque settings. Some of the popular ones include Plage Trottel, Saint Francois Beach, and Marinella Beach, where visitors can relax, swim, or participate in water sports.

Be sure to learn a few phrases in French. The locals truly appreciate when you are able to communicate with them using basic conversation. Google translate is the best and very useful tool.

Day trip

Maison Bonaparte - Also known as the Bonaparte House, is a historic residence turned museum located in the city of Ajaccio, on the island of Corsica, France. It is famous for being the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte back in August 15, 1769. The house is a modest three-story building with a pink facade, situated in the heart of Ajaccio's old town. You will find real life historical artifacts from the Bonaparte family. The hours of operation is from 10:30am to 12:30pm, 1-6pm local time.

• For a quick sit down breakfast, you can stop by A Conca D'oru. For 7 euros, you can get coffee or tea, glass of jus D'orange, pastry of your choice as well as toast with butter and jam.

• For lunch, If you are in the mood for pizza, look no further. La Belle Epogue-La Pizzeria is the spot for you. The price ranges from 14-19 Euros. Their homemade and savory pizzas are both French and Italian-inspired.

• If you choose to go for a more healthy meal, just steps away from Maison Bonaparte, you can sit and have a refreshing salad or artisanal sandwich, healthy smoothie and/or fresh pressed seasonal fruit juice at Chez Josephine.

• You cannot let the day go by without , I would recommend Boulangerie Du Diamant for their tasty pastries including the apple tartlets as well as their croissants. Price ranges from 1-6 euros.

• For a scrumptious gelato, by sure to stop by Via Lattea - Glacier artisanal-here you will indulge in flavors such as noisette, which is a chocolate hazelnut, pistachio, salted caramel. These hand-crafted gelato will send your tastebuds on a cruise to paradise.

• Le Bar des Pêcheurs Ajaccio-known for its cocktails, local wines, tapas and live DJ, this place is a vibe.

• If you want a more sophisticated atmosphere, L'écrin-a Michellin-star quality restaurant uses fresh, seasonal, expertly crafted cuisine that would satisfy pickiest palate.