Here is a quick overview of the little wonders you can discover during your stay to Ajaccio
• Corsica in general: With 8000 km², Corsica is one of the smallest French regions, the size of Alsace. From North to South, 180 km separate Cap Corse and Bonifacio and the width of the island is 80 km between the Calanques de Piana and the Plaine Orientale. Finding a car rental in Ajaccio is therefore highly recommended, even for a stay of only a few days because you can access any place on the island from Ajaccio. That being said, it is necessary to take into account its relief, the travel times will be longer in the very mountainous regions of the center of the island. Corsica has more than 200 peaks over 2000 meters high and Mont Cinto culminates at 2706 m.
• Sartène: In Corsica, each landscape is different and must be seen. To discover the island, it is best to take your car and travel the roads according to your desires and your favorites (there will be no shortage of them). 80 km to the south-east (allow 1h30), Sartène is one of the most picturesque towns in Corsica. It is “the most Corsican of Corsican cities”, according to Prosper Mérimée’s formula. The Echauguette, a 16th century Genoese tower, or the Sainte Marie church are two examples of monuments that are particularly worth a visit.
• Corte: At the same distance, towards the North-East, the citadel of Corte, the only one inland from Corsica. Pascal Paoli, the “Father of the Fatherland”, is to Corte what Napoleon is to Ajaccio. It is the starting point for the highest Corsican hikes.
Why rent a car in Ajaccio?
Public transport in Ajaccio is quite limited. There are a few buses, but they don’t serve the whole city and the schedules are irregular. The metro is also limited and does not serve all areas of the city. Car rental is therefore more practical for getting around Ajaccio.
Why rent a car rather than a 2-wheeler in Ajaccio?
There are many reasons to hire a car while on holiday in Ajaccio, rather than a scooter or motorbike. On the one hand, cars are much more comfortable and offer more luggage space than scooters or motorcycles. They are also safer, as they are less likely to be involved in accidents, and if an accident does occur, it is less likely to be serious.
Additionally, cars are more convenient than scooters or motorbikes, as they can be used to explore the island more easily and visit multiple destinations in a single day. Finally, cars are generally more expensive to rent than scooters or motorbikes, but this is offset by the fact that they offer a much higher level of comfort and convenience. All in all, renting a car is the best option for those who want to fully enjoy their vacation in Ajaccio.
Discover the wonders of Ajaccio inaccessible by public transport
Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica and is located on the west coast of the island. The town is a popular tourist destination and there is plenty to see and do. However, many places are not accessible by public transport and you will have to either rent a car or take a taxi to get there. Here are some of the places you should visit if you are in Ajaccio.
The first place you should visit is the Genoese tower of Capo Rosso. This tower is located on the northwest coast of Corsica and was built in the 16th century. It is one of the best preserved Genoese towers on the island and offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.
Another place you should visit is the Gorges de la Restonica. It is a canyon which is located in the center of Corsica and which is one of the most popular hiking spots on the island. The canyon is about 2 km long and very scenic. If you are interested in history, you should visit the prehistoric site of Filitosa. This site is located in southern Corsica and contains a number of megalithic structures that date back to the Neolithic period.
Finally, if you want to experience some of the best views on the island, you must take the cable car up Monte Cinto. This mountain is the highest point in Corsica and from the top one can see for miles in all directions.
Tips for choosing the right rental car in Ajaccio
What is the state of the roads around Ajaccio?
The roads around Ajaccio are generally in good condition, well maintained and secure. However, there are a few places where you need to be careful, especially because of the many turns. Traffic can also be heavy in the summer, especially on the roads leading to the beach.
Want to go on a road trip to Ajaccio?
For a road trip in Ajaccio, it is recommended to rent a spacious and comfortable car. SUV type cars are ideal for long journeys on the winding roads of the region. They offer good visibility and good driving comfort. Smaller cars are also suitable for this type of trip, but they may be less comfortable over long distances.
Ideas for itineraries with your rental car in Ajaccio
What options should you choose when renting a car for a holiday in Ajaccio?
For holidays in Ajaccio, there are several interesting options to have when renting a car. Air conditioning is important, especially if you are traveling in the summer. Unlimited mileage is a good option if you are doing long distances. The manual or automatic transmission is a matter of preference, but the automatic transmission is often more comfortable. If you have children, it is important to rent a car with a child car seat. Finally, the GPS can be useful to orient you in the streets of Ajaccio.
What to do to discover Ajaccio during a short stay (weekend or 3 days)?
Ajaccio is a city on the western coast of Corsica. It is the capital of the commune of Ajaccio and of the prefecture of Corse-du-Sud. The city of Ajaccio is located approximately 200 kilometers south of mainland France. Ajaccio is a pleasant city to visit, with many historical and cultural sites. The city is also surrounded by beautiful beaches and natural landscapes. Here is a 3-day itinerary by car in Ajaccio:
Day 1: Arrival in Ajaccio and discovery of the city. Visit of the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption cathedral, the Fesch museum, the palace of the governors and the Napoleon museum.
Day 2: Day trip by car to discover the surroundings of Ajaccio. Visit the city of Bonifacio, located about an hour’s drive south of Ajaccio. Bonifacio is a medieval town located on a rocky promontory overlooking the sea. The town is surrounded by numerous white sand beaches.
Day 3: Day trip by car to discover the western coast of Corsica. Visit the town of Porto-Vecchio, located about an hour and a half drive south-east of Ajaccio. Porto-Vecchio is a lively town located on a bay of white sand. The city is surrounded by numerous beaches and pine forests.
What to discover around Ajaccio over 1 week?
Ajaccio is a city on the western coast of Corsica. There’s plenty to see and do here, and it’s easy to get there by car. Here is a seven-day driving itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your stay:
Day 1: Arrival in Ajaccio and exploration of the city. Take the time to wander the streets and visit the main sites, such as the Fesch Museum, the Governors’ Palace and the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Cathedral.
Day 2: Road to the south of the island. Stop at Porto-Vecchio and enjoy the beach before continuing to Bonifacio. Admire the town’s white limestone cliffs and explore the medieval lanes.
Day 3: Bonifacio – Sartene – Propriano. Take the road inland and go to Sartène, a typical small town of Corsica. Continue to Propriano and spend the evening on the beach.
Day 4: Propriano – Ajaccio. Enjoy the beach a little longer before heading back to Ajaccio. Stop en route to visit the archaeological site of Filitosa.
Day 5: Ajaccio – Calvi. Take the road to the northwest of the island and spend the day in Calvi. Admire the view from the citadel and stroll through the alleys of the old town.
Day 6: Calvi – Bastia. Enjoy the beach one last time before heading back to Bastia. Stop en route to visit the villages of Pigna and Corte.
Day 7: Bastia – Ajaccio. Explore Bastia and take the time to visit the old port and the citadel. At the end of the day, take the road back to Ajaccio for your last night in Corsica.
What to do around Ajaccio during your 2 weeks vacation?
Here are some ideas for driving itineraries to help you plan your 2-week trip.
Week 1:
Day 1: Arrival in Ajaccio. Take time to rest and relax after the trip.
Day 2: Visit of the old town. Take the little tourist train to go around the city.
Day 3: Boat trip around Sanguinaire Island.
Day 4: Relaxing day at the beach.
Day 5: Visit of the Fesch museum.
Day 6: Excursion in the mountains.
Day 7: Relaxing day at the beach.
Week 2:
Day 8: Departure for Bonifacio. Stop en route to visit the Restonica gorges.
Day 9: Bonifacio. Visit of the old town and the cliffs.
Day 10: Boat trip around the Lavezzi Islands.
Day 11: Route des Cretes. Stop in the villages of Sartene and Propriano.
Day 12: Departure for Porto-Vecchio. Stop en route to visit the Bavella waterfalls.
Day 13: Porto-Vecchio. Relaxing day at the beach.
Day 14: Departure for the airport.
Ideas for romantic road trips in Ajaccio
Ajaccio is the ideal place for a romantic getaway. With its breathtaking landscapes and its many activities, Ajaccio is the ideal place to have a good time alone. Here are some romantic road trip ideas in Ajaccio:
Visit the Citadel of Ajaccio. This ancient fortress is a great place to explore with your loved one.
Take a hike in the forests of Ajaccio. There are many beautiful hiking trails in Ajaccio which are perfect for a romantic hike.
Go for a swim on one of Ajaccio’s many beaches. Ajaccio’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world and are perfect for a romantic swim.
Visit the city of Corte. This charming town is located in the heart of Ajaccio and is the perfect place to explore with your loved one.
Drive on the picturesque Route des Crêtes. This scenic drive is the perfect place to take a romantic stroll with your loved one.
Ideas for family road trips in Ajaccio
Ajaccio is a beautiful city located in Corsica. It is surrounded by many attractions and activities that are perfect for families. Here are some ideas for road trips and activities to do with the family near Ajaccio:
Santa Giulia beach: this magnificent white sand beach is located just a few kilometers from Ajaccio. It is perfect for children and families who want to enjoy the sun and the sea.
The Regional Natural Park of Corsica: this natural park is located just an hour’s drive from Ajaccio. It is ideal for families who wish to hike and discover the beauty of Corsican nature.
The Bonaparte Museum: this museum is located in the city center of Ajaccio. It is ideal for families wishing to learn more about the history of the city and the Bonaparte family.
The citadel of Bonifacio: this magnificent citadel located just a few kilometers from Ajaccio is ideal for families wishing to discover the history and culture of Corsica.
Driving tips for driving your rental car safely in Ajaccio
To properly drive your rental car in Ajaccio, it is important to respect the highway code. Watch out for speed cameras, and use cruise control to avoid fines. You also have to watch out for cyclists and motorcyclists on the road. They are often less visible than cars, so be careful. Finally, to avoid traffic jams, it is advisable to leave early in the morning or late in the evening.
