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The citadel of Bonifacio on its white cliffs, Corsica

No. 5 25 Great Islands to Visit 2026

Corsica

Corsica, France

A mountainous 'island of beauty' with granite peaks, citadel towns and wild beaches.

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Photo: Einaz80, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overview

Corsica, in the Mediterranean south-east of mainland France, is largely mountainous, with peaks over 2,500 m and a long coastline of beaches, coves and cliffs.

Its towns, such as Bonifacio, Calvi and Ajaccio (the birthplace of Napoleon), have Genoese citadels. The GR20 is one of Europe's best-known long-distance hiking trails.

Corsica Bonifacio Ville haute Falaises
Corsica Bonifacio Ville haute Falaises. Photo: Isiwal, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Corsica Classic Skylark of
Corsica Classic Skylark of. Photo: Myrabella, CC BY-SA 3.0, source
Port of Bastia, Corsica, France
Port of Bastia, Corsica, France. Photo: dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, source

Best time to visit

May, June and September are ideal. July and August are busiest; the high mountains are best from June to September.

Highlights

  • 1

    Bonifacio

    A town on white limestone cliffs above the sea at the southern tip.

  • 2

    Calanques de Piana

    Red granite cliffs and rock formations on the west coast.

  • 3

    Scandola

    A nature reserve of red cliffs, visited by boat from Porto or Calvi.

  • 4

    Palombaggia

    A beach of fine sand and pines near Porto-Vecchio.

  • 5

    GR20

    A demanding mountain trail across the island; walk sections or the whole route.

Getting there

Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi and Figari airports have flights from France and Europe. Ferries run from Marseille, Nice, Toulon and Italian ports.

Practical tips

Opening & tickets
Opening times, ticket rules and transport timetables change, so check official information before you go.
Time needed
A week or more.

Official information: Visit Corsica (official website). Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.

Map

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