Corsican city where Napoleon was born. Old town with narrow streets, citadel, and Genoese fortifications. Mediterranean beaches and lively waterfront promenade.
Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica, is a Mediterranean city with a long history and coastal views. As the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, you can visit his childhood home, now a museum. In the Old Town, you'll find narrow streets with colorful buildings. The city has several beaches, including Plage Saint-François in the center. You can take boat trips to nearby islands like the Sanguinaires. Ajaccio's daily market on Place César Campinchi sells local produce and Corsican specialties, while its museums showcase art and regional history.
Exploring Ajaccio's Old Town
The center of Ajaccio is its Old Town. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll see pastel-colored buildings and small squares. The 16th-century Ajaccio Cathedral, where Napoleon was baptized, is an example of Renaissance architecture. Make your way to Place Foch, a palm-lined square where locals and visitors often gather. The nearby Citadel, while not open to the public, is a remnant of the city's defensive structures.
Coastal Areas and Beaches
Ajaccio sits on the Gulf of Ajaccio, with several beaches in and around the city. The centrally located Plage Saint-François is convenient for sunbathing and swimming. For a less crowded option, you can go to Plage de Capo di Feno, about 10 kilometers from the city center. You can take a boat to the Sanguinaires Islands, known for their red porphyry cliffs and lighthouse.
Museums and Cultural Sites
The Fesch Museum, housed in a 19th-century palace, contains a collection of Italian Renaissance paintings. At the A Bandera Museum, you can learn about Corsican history and traditions. The Imperial Chapel, built by Napoleon III, is located next to the Fesch Museum and is open to visitors.
Local Food and Markets
Visit Ajaccio's daily market on Place CĂ©sar Campinchi to see fresh produce, Corsican cheeses, charcuterie, and local honey. The city's restaurants serve French and Corsican dishes. You can try local specialties like wild boar stew, chestnut flour crepes, or seafood caught in nearby waters.
Napoleon's Legacy in Ajaccio
Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, born here in 1769. You can visit Maison Bonaparte, the emperor's childhood home turned museum, which displays family heirlooms and personal belongings. The Salon Napoléonien in the town hall has documents and medals related to Napoleon's life. At Place d'Austerlitz, you'll find a large monument dedicated to the emperor.
Day Trips from Ajaccio
You can use Ajaccio as a starting point for exploring the surrounding region. Drive to the Prunelli Gorges for mountain views and hiking trails. Visit the prehistoric site of Filitosa, about 40 kilometers south of Ajaccio, to see ancient menhir statues. The resort town of Porticcio, just across the gulf, has long sandy beaches.
Getting Around Ajaccio
Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport connects the city to mainland France and other European destinations. Within the city, you can walk to many attractions. For longer trips, you can use local buses and the petit train touristique. Renting a car allows you to explore the Corsican countryside and coastal areas independently.
