Corsica Road Trip Itinerary
The Corsica Road Trip is an unforgettable experience that takes you through some of the most beautiful parts of the Mediterranean island. Starting in the city of Bastia in France, the route covers a distance of approximately 560 km and should take around 7 days to complete. The best time of year to take this road trip is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny, and the scenery is at its best.
The route takes you through the picturesque town of Corte, where you can explore the historical fortifications and the old town centre. Further on, you will reach Ajaccio, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, and a great place to explore the local culture and cuisine. As you make your way south, you can enjoy the stunning landscapes and beaches, with plenty of opportunities to take photographs and make memories.
The roads through Corsica are generally in good condition, although some sections are narrow and winding, so you should take extra care when driving. Nevertheless, this road trip provides a very high level of experience and memories, and is suitable for all drivers. However, it should be noted that the costs of travelling through Corsica can be quite high.
7
number of days
563 km
route length
high
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Bastia
Distance 563 km
Driving time 11.9 h
Pace: modest
146.5 kWh
Airports
BIA
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AJA
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Bastia is the perfect starting point to the Corsica Road Trip. Located on the northeast coast of Corsica, this city is full of history and culture, as well as plenty of outdoor activities. The city's old town, Terra Vecchia, is an excellent place to start exploring. Here you can find many old churches, palaces, and historic monuments, including the Genoese citadel, which dates back to the 13th century.
If you're looking for outdoor activities, Bastia has plenty to offer. There are several hiking trails in the area, and the nearby beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. You can also go sailing, windsurfing, and waterskiing.
The closest international airport to Bastia is Poretta Airport (BIA). It is well connected to other cities in Europe and offers car rental services. Taking a car is the best way to explore the region, as the roads are well maintained and there are plenty of scenic spots to visit.
Bastia is an ideal starting point for the Corsica Road Trip. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and great outdoor activities, Bastia is sure to give you an unforgettable experience.
1
Bastia
- Saint Florent
- Corte
Distance 121 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
31.4 kWh
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Itinerary
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip starting in Bastia, France? This stage of your journey will take you through the beautiful towns of Saint Florent and Corte, with a total driving distance of 117 km and a total driving time of fewer than 3 hours. The road is winding in some sections, so be sure to pay attention to the scenic views. In other sections, the road is narrow, so be sure to drive carefully. Along the way you can explore the historic and cultural sites of Saint Florent, such as the Citadel, the Church of Saint-Florent, and the old port. In Corte you can visit the old city center, the Citadel, and the University. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for a memorable road trip!
Corte - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.needpix.com
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2
Corte
- Porto
Distance 85 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: slow
19.6 kWh
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Welcome to the exciting road trip stage from Corte to Porto! This 85 km journey will take you less than 3 hours, and is one of the most scenic drives in the region. As you take the winding roads, you'll be able to admire the beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and the breathtaking mountains. You'll also find some narrow roads, so make sure to drive carefully. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places in Corte and Porto, such as the historic Citadel of Corte, the picturesque beaches of Porto, and the stunning views from the Ponta de São Lourenço. Don't forget to take some time to explore the local shops and restaurants, and take in the unique atmosphere of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Porto - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Porto - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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3
Porto
- Ajaccio
Distance 79 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: modest
20.6 kWh
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Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Porto to Ajaccio? This 79 km journey will take you less than two hours to complete, and you will be able to enjoy the scenic road along the way. In some sections, the road is winding, so be sure to drive carefully. You can visit the beautiful beaches of Porto and Ajaccio, as well as the historic sites of Ajaccio. Don't forget to take a break and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. Make sure to take some pictures to remember your journey! Along the way, you can find accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. For more information, check the Itinerary of this stage. Have a safe and enjoyable journey!
Ajaccio - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Ajaccio - France - Europe - Road Trip - www.peakpx.com
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4
Ajaccio
- Sartene
- Bonifacio
Distance 126 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: modest
32.9 kWh
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Embark on a spectacular 126km journey from Ajaccio to Bonifacio and discover the beauty of Corsica! The drive will take less than 3 hours so make sure to take your time and enjoy the stunning views. Start your journey in Ajaccio and make your way to Sartene, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains. Here you can explore the old city, beautiful churches and the nearby archaeological sites. Then, drive to Bonifacio, a stunning coastal city with breathtaking views. Take a stroll in the old town and explore the fortifications and the Genoese architecture. On your way, pay attention to the winding roads and the spectacular views of the mountains and the sea. Don’t forget to stop and take some pictures! For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Bonifacio - France - Europe - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Bonifacio - France - Europe - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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5
Bonifacio
- Porto Vecchio
- Bastia
Distance 152 km
Driving time 2.7 h
Pace: modest
39.5 kWh
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Embark on a road trip from Bonifacio, France and explore the stunning coastal towns of Porto Vecchio and Bastia. This 152 km journey, spanning less than 3 hours, offers a scenic drive with winding roads and breathtaking views. As you drive, take in the sight of the Mediterranean Sea, the rocky cliffs, and the lush, green forests.
In Porto Vecchio, explore the old town and its ancient citadel, the beaches and the nearby nature reserves. Then, continue on to Bastia, where you can wander the old town and its charming streets, explore the citadel, and visit the harbor. Don't forget to also check out the nearby villages of Nonza and Pigna.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Bastia
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End your Corsica Road Trip in Bastia, a city on the northeast coast of the Mediterranean island of Corsica. Located in the north of the island, Bastia is the perfect place to savor the flavors of the region. Its port is the second largest in the Mediterranean and offers a vibrant atmosphere, with a variety of restaurants, bars and plenty of activities. Enjoy a stroll along the harbor, visit the historic Citadel of Bastia, or take in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean from the terrace of the Palais des Gouverneurs.
For those who prefer exploring on foot, there are plenty of winding streets to discover, with old townhouses and churches, as well as the traditional markets of Place Saint Nicolas. For a taste of the local culture, visit the famous Fesch Museum, featuring the works of famous Corsican painters. Don't miss the chance to sample some of the local gastronomy, such as the renowned Figatellu sausage.
To get to Bastia, the closest international airport is Poretta Airport (BIA), located 70 km (44 miles) away. From there, you can rent a car and drive the rest of the way to Bastia, taking in the stunning scenery of the island. Make sure to end your Corsica Road Trip in style, in the beautiful city of Bastia.
Corsica Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Bastia
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End:
Bastia
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Distance:
563 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA),
Ajaccio-Napoléon Bonaparte Airport (AJA)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on a mesmerizing journey with the Corsica Road Trip, traversing the enchanting Mediterranean island of Corsica over approximately 560 kilometers in a 7-day odyssey that begins in Bastia. This captivating expedition not only reveals the island's diverse natural splendors, from dramatic mountains to azure coasts but also delves into the deep cultural tapestry and storied past of this French jewel, providing a genuine encounter with the heart of Corsican allure.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Bastia: The gateway to your adventure, Bastia is a treasure trove of Baroque churches, a bustling old port, and markets brimming with local produce.
- Corte: Steeped in nationalist history, Corte boasts a citadel perched atop a rocky outcrop and serves as the gateway to the island's rugged interior, including the Restonica and Tavignano valleys.
- Ajaccio: Not just Napoleon Bonaparte's birthplace, Ajaccio offers a rich trove of museums, sun-kissed piazzas, and delicious coastal cuisine.
- Southern Corsica: A realm of contrasts, where the UNESCO-listed Gulf of Porto and the cliffside town of Bonifacio offer panoramas that are etched in memory, alongside inviting beaches like Palombaggia and Rondinara.
Interesting Facts:
- Corsica is known as 'Île de Beauté' by the French, which means the 'Island of Beauty', reflecting its varied landscapes from glittering bays to dense forests.
- The island's culture is a unique blend of French and Italian influences, with its own language, Corsu, which you may hear and see alongside French.
- Corsica is home to the GR20, one of Europe's most challenging and beautiful hiking trails.
Best Time to Go:
Late spring to early autumn is ideal for Road Tripping in Corsica, with May through September offering the perfect balance of warm, pleasant weather and fewer crowds before and after the peak of summer.
Potential Risks:
- Corsica's mountainous terrain means encountering Roads that can be narrow, steep, and with tight bends, which may be challenging for less experienced drivers.
- During peak season, the island's popularity can lead to higher accommodation and rental car rates; planning and booking in advance can mitigate this.
A good choice for:
For those yearning for a blend of adventure and tranquility, the Corsica Road Trip is an exquisite tapestry of experiences. You'll return with your soul enriched by the storied history, your eyes dazzled by the scenic grandeur, and your heart warmed by the island's vibrant spirit.
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