Arrondissement of Ajaccio

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Arrondissement of Ajaccio

The arrondissement of Ajaccio is located on the west coast of Corsica, France, and consists of 81 communes such as Piana, Pietrosella, and Sarrola-Carcopino. The main city, also called Ajaccio, is best known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. Explore Ajaccio’s stunning natural attractions, starting with Plage de Cupabia, which features fine white sand, jutting rocks, and turquoise waters. Marvel at the red cliffs of Calanques de Piana, which become even more breathtaking at sunset. For surfing or simply relaxing on the beach, Capo di Feno is the perfect destination. In addition to its natural beauty, Ajaccio is rich in cultural heritage. Visit Maison Bonaparte, the former residence of the Bonaparte family, and the Fesch Museum, home to an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance paintings. If you're looking for a destination in Corsica that offers everything from nature to history and culture, Ajaccio is the perfect choice!

Travel Tips for Arrondissement of Ajaccio

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Arrondissement of Ajaccio

A guide to Arrondissement of Ajaccio's local transportation

Train

Taxi

Car Rental

Chemins de Fer de la Corse (CFC) operates the rail service in Corsica. Trains connect Ajaccio with other communes in the same arrondissement, such as Sarrola-Carcopino and Carbuccia, as well as other parts of the island. If you plan to use the train as your main mode of transportation in Corsica, consider getting a Liberta Pass through the CFC website. This pass costs €50 and allows unlimited travel for seven consecutive days.

Practical Tips for Arrondissement of Ajaccio

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What are the top attractions in the arrondissement of Ajaccio?

When in Ajaccio, visit the Maison Bonaparte, the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the Ajaccio Cathedral, where he was baptized. The Fesch Museum houses one of France's largest collections of Italian paintings, including works by Botticelli and Titian. Don’t miss the Ajaccio Market, which sells local cheese, pastry, wine, and more. For nature lovers, take a boat trip from Ajaccio or Porticcio to the Sanguinaires Islands for hiking and bird watching. Another must-see natural attraction is the Calanques de Piana, which offers spectacular views of red rock cliffs.

What are the best beaches in the arrondissement of Ajaccio?

Ajaccio boasts many beautiful beaches, such as Plage de Saint-François, conveniently located near the cruise port and city center. For a more secluded option, head to Capo di Feno, which offers unspoiled landscapes and surfing opportunities. Another popular beach is Plage de Cupabia in the Coti-Chiavari commune, famous for its clear waters and fine sand, making it perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

How do I get to Ajaccio from Paris?

The most convenient way to travel from Paris to Ajaccio is by plane. Direct flights are available from Paris Orly and Paris Charles de Gaulle to Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport, taking 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris to Marseille, Nice, or Toulon and continue by ferry to Ajaccio. This option will take significantly longer but offers scenic views of the Mediterranean.

When is the best time to visit the arrondissement of Ajaccio?

The best time to visit Ajaccio is from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities, and the waters are perfect for swimming. However, July and August are peak tourist months, so prices tend to be higher. For a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds, consider visiting in May, June, September, or October.

What are some must-try dishes in the arrondissement of Ajaccio?

When in Ajaccio, indulge in Corsican specialties such as civet de sanglier, a wild boar stew cooked in red wine. Corsica is also famous for its cheeses, with one of the most popular being brocciu, made from goat or sheep milk. For dessert, try fiadone, a Corsican-style cheesecake that uses brocciu as a key ingredient.