Visit Corsica in 1 week via the best itinerary? It's possible! Embark on a hectic roadtrip from the port of Nice, arriving at Ile Rousse and touring the island of beauty via the south-west of the island, returning to the port of arrival via the south-east and the mountainous center. Are you ready! Let's go!
Day 1: Departure from Nice, arrival at Île Rousse and Calvi
If you're planning to leave Nice for your Corsican vacation, take the opportunity to explore the magical historic city center!
Before crossing to Corsica, discover Nice
Don't miss Vieux-Nice, a lively and picturesque district. Stroll through the narrow, colorful streets to the famous Cours Saleya market, where flowers and local produce will awaken your senses. Visit the majestic Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate, before climbing the Colline du Château for a breathtaking view of the Baie des Anges. Finally, take the time to savor a Socca, the specialty of Nice, in one of the finest traditional restaurants. This unforgettable blend of culture and relaxation is best enjoyed just before boarding the ferry with your vehicle!
If you have the time, we recommend this e-bike tour of Nice and the surrounding area.
Visit Corsica in 1 week: arrival at Ile Rousse
Once you've disembarked at Île Rousse, your gaze is caught by the hypnotic color of the crystal-clear waters. You've arrived! Corsica is before your eyes and under your feet, ready to reveal all its secrets. Let's get moving!
Direction Calvi
Head straight for Calvi la belle! Discover a pearl of the Haute-Corse region that's full of wonder. Start your escapade on its fine sandy beach, where the turquoise waters invite you to swim and enjoy water sports. It's also an accessible beach for people with disabilities. A special Hippocampe wheelchair for bathing and walking is available, as is the assistance of a lifeguard. Once refreshed, set down your suitcases at the Grand Hôtel de Calvi, an emblematic establishment that combines historic charm with modern comfort. Its breathtaking view over the bay is a sight not to be missed, especially at sunset. Afterwards, stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town. They are lined with craft stores and welcoming cafés.
Activity recommendation: Climb aboard a quad bike for a panoramic tour of the Corsican coast by booking this 2-hour quad bike ride from Calvi.
What to do in Calvi in the evening
The port of Calvi is the beating heart of the town. Here you'll see traditional fishing boats rubbing shoulders with luxury yachts. It's the ideal place to sample local specialties while watching the maritime hustle and bustle. The people of Calvi are renowned for their warm welcome and pride in their heritage. Engage them in conversation, and they'll be delighted to share the secrets of their beautiful region with you. Don't miss a visit to the Genoese citadel overlooking the town. This historic monument offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and surrounding mountains, and a stunning sunset. And for an authentic experience, attend a Corsican polyphony concert.
What you need to know How to spend a less expensive vacation in Corse-du-Sud?
Day 2: Calvi - Porto - Calanques de Piana
To kick off this second day on the Isle of Beauty, when you set off to visit Corsica in 1 week, get up early to enjoy a coffee with Calvi locals who open their stores and chat. Taste the fresh strawberries and goat's cheese tartines with fig jam, it's to die for!
The Calvi-Porto route via the cliffs
Head for Porto via the cliff road. Note that the journey takes 2h30 and you'll rarely exceed 40 km/h, but it's well worth it for the majestic scenery. Red cliffs tumble gracefully into a turquoise sea. Surprising rock formations and awe-inspiring panoramas make your heart skip a beat. Indeed, the road winds through a wild, unspoilt landscape. Welcome to the raw beauty of Corsica!
Boarding for the Calanques de Piana and the Scandola reserve
Once you've arrived in Porto, join Arnaud! The inimitable captain will take you with a huge smile on his comfortable, powerful red boat to the sublime Calanques de Piana, one of the 3 must-sees on your Corsican vacation!
Visit Corsica with the Calanques de Piana by boat
The adventure then continues to the Scandola reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This reserve is only accessible by sea. Finally, a stop at the picturesque village of Girolata, nestled between sea and mountains, gives you the chance to meet some mischievous black cows. Be careful, this trip will leave a lasting impression on you! An emotional experience ! With his quirky sense of humor and infectious passion for Corsica, Arnaud guides you through breathtaking scenery, while sharing fascinating anecdotes about local geology and wildlife.
Book my cruise in the Scandola reserve and Calanques de Piana
Swimming and wonder
Between swimming stops in crystal-clear waters, Corsican songs and tight turns for a bit of adrenalin, every moment is unique. The skipper knows how to captivate his audience while raising awareness of the need to preserve this natural heritage. Don't hesitate to take the 3h30 outing. You'll be dreaming about it for weeks afterwards! Once you've recovered from your emotions, discover Piana and stop off to admire the breathtaking cliffs.
Day 3: Ajaccio, what to do, what to see?
A trip to Ajaccio is a must in Corsica!
Visit Corsica: discover the center of Ajaccio
When you want to visit Corsica in 1 week, start with a visit to the Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon's birthplace, where you'll discover objects and souvenirs linked to the emperor. Then stroll through the old town, with its narrow, colorful streets, charming boutiques and lively cafés. Don't miss the Cathedral Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, where Napoleon was baptized, and the Musée Fesch, home to an impressive collection of Italian paintings. Next, head to the Ajaccio market, where you can sample charcuterie, Corsican cheese and other delicacies. Take a stroll around Place Foch, the vibrant heart of the city, where the statue of Napoleon stands proudly. The surrounding fountains and palm trees create a pleasant atmosphere, ideal for strolling or enjoying a coffee on the terrace.
Discover the highlights of Ajaccio on an afternoon open-top bus tour by booking here.
Ajaccio by bike: the best spots
Finally, rent an electric bike and ride along Place du Diamant. From there, you can cycle to the Promenade du Bord de Mer. Then cycle along the Route des Sanguinaires, which offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea. And at the end of the day, admire the sunset from the Tour de la Parata, a landmark with a panoramic view of the Sanguinaires islands. Why not plan a boat trip to this sublime site? Click here to book your boat tour of Ajaccio and the Golfe des Sanguinaires.
To know: 7-day sailing cruise in South Corsica: itinerary tips
Day 4: Porticcio - Sartène - Propriano - Bonifacio, the road-trip
The road from Porticcio to Bonifacio in Southern Corsica is a real delight, with must-see stops like Sartène.
Visit Corsica in 1 week: Porticcio
Located just opposite Ajaccio, Porticcio is a seaside resort renowned for its fine sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Don't miss the beaches of Agosta and Mare e Sole, perfect for a swim or a lazy afternoon. In terms of culture, take a look at the Tour de Capitello, an ancient Genoese tower overlooking the sea and offering a panoramic view of the Bay of Ajaccio. The idyllic setting, between sea and scrubland, invites you to relax and take a refreshing break before continuing on your way.
Sartène
Continue on to Sartène, described as "the most Corsican of Corsican towns". Perched high above the sea, Sartène's cobbled streets, granite houses and medieval atmosphere take you back in time. Place de la Libération is the heart of the town, as is the church of Sainte-Marie, the starting point for the famous Catenacciu procession during the Easter festivities. Sartène is also famous for its wine, so take the time to visit a Corsican cellar and taste these renowned vintages.
On the road to Bonifacio: Propriano
On the way to Bonifacio, the coastal road unfurls sublime landscapes. Mountains, scrubland and secret coves alternate to offer breathtaking panoramas. Pass through Propriano, a charming little port town, then drive along the region's magnificent beaches, such as Campomoro, where the Genoese tower offers an incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea. Take a break at Roccapina beach, which is dominated by the famous Lion Rock, a natural rock formation in the shape of a feline, or book this sunset boat trip with a visit to the Calanques marine reserve.
Arrival in Bonifacio: time to marvel
Finally, you arrive in Bonifacio, the jewel of southern Corsica! Its spectacular white cliffs, plunging into an intense blue sea, are one of the island's most impressive vistas. Enjoy the sublime sunset!
Day 5: Bonifacio
Visiting Corsica in 1 week includes the must-see city of Bonifacio, the nugget of southern Corsica. Follow the guide!
Visit Corsica's must-see citadel
To make the most of your day, start by strolling through the old town and its picturesque streets perched on the cliff. Stroll through the citadel and visit landmarks such as the Église Saint-Dominique and the Église Sainte-Marie-Majeure, a 12th-century historic building. Then head down to the Port de Bonifacio, a bustling marina where you can admire luxury yachts and pretty fishing boats.
Bonifacio's magical boat tour
From here,book a boat trip around Bonifacio right here. The view of the cliffs from the sea is spectacular: the white limestone rock formations seem to rise out of the water. Along the way, you'll discover sea caves such as the famous Grotte du Dragon, a mystical passage that echoes local legend. The boat will also take you to the secret coves around the town, where you can bathe in crystal-clear water.
Hiking and idyllic panoramas
Bonifacio is surrounded by hiking trails that reveal incredible panoramas. One of the most beautiful is the Sentier des Falaises hike, which starts at the citadel and follows the coast to Cap Pertusato. It's a relatively easy trail, offering breathtaking views of the cliffs, the sea and even Sardinia on a clear day. When you reach the end of the path, you'll discover a secluded lighthouse dominating the horizon, then head for the marine cemetery. This peaceful spot offers spectacular views of the sea, while providing an opportunity to visit a place steeped in history and serenity.
Bonifacio sunset: where to go?
In the late afternoon, get ready for one of Corsica's most beautiful sunsets. One of the best spots is near the Madonetta lighthouse. There, you can watch the sun set behind Bonifacio's cliffs, bathing the town and sea in golden light. The spectacle is all the more magical with the Mediterranean Sea as far as the eye can see. If you prefer a more intimate setting, the cliff tops around Pertusato are also an ideal place to enjoy the view and the surrounding calm. And for even more magic, opt for a sunset on a boat! Excursions are organized from the marina. You can also rent a sailboat or catamaran.
What to do in Bonifacio at night?
When night falls, Bonifacio's citadel comes alive under the lights. The narrow streets, with their illuminated facades and hidden squares, take on a romantic and mysterious air. Enjoy the atmosphere in one of the historic center's typical restaurants. The terraces perched above the sea offer a unique gastronomic experience, with Corsican dishes based on fresh, local produce, such as figatellu, Corsican charcuterie, or the fish and seafood of the day. And to round off the evening, take a stroll through the narrow streets. Artisanal stores stay open late.
The oldest store in the citadel
Meet the owner of the oldest store in the citadel: Priscilla in her pretty boutique Corallissimo. Nestled next to the church, she offers superb Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli and other precious stones (amethyst, peridot), among other objects that make wonderful gift ideas to bring back from Corsica. With its warm, authentic welcome, take time to discover this nugget of the citadel!
Day 6: Lavezzi Islands to visit Corsica
Book your excursion to the Lavezzi Islands here ! Want to play Robinson Crusoe? This is the perfect getaway to discover an island where nature reigns supreme. Bring your picnic and your garbage bag, so you don't leave anything behind! There's no infrastructure, just coves and huge granite rocks dotting these turquoise-water-fringed islands. You'll love swimming among the fish, all alone in the world. The boats rotate to take you back to Bonifacio - don't miss the last one!
Day 7: Visit Corsica's most beautiful beaches
With just two days to go before catching the ferry back to Corsica, it's time to take in some of the most beautiful beaches on the island! Here's how to finish visiting Corsica in 1 week.
Morning at Palombaggia beach: visiting Corsica
Start your day at the famous Palombaggia beach, not far from Porto-Vecchio. A true paradise on earth, this beach is one of the most beautiful in Corsica. With its pristine white sand and shallow turquoise waters, it's the perfect place for absolute relaxation. The majestic umbrella pines that line the beach provide welcome shade for moments of rest. Take your time to soak up this idyllic setting and why not treat yourself to breakfast on one of the terraces overlooking the sea?
Afternoon in Santa-Giulia and Rondinara
After a morning of relaxation, set off to discover other local gems. The beach at Santa-Giulia is a must-see, with its translucent blue lagoon and fine sand. It's the perfect place for water sports: pedalos, paddleboats and canoes. Santa-Giulia is also ideal for families, thanks to its calm, shallow waters. After a refreshing swim, continue on to Rondinara beach, a half-moon-shaped cove considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean.
End of the day at Petit Spérone
End your day in southern Corsica at Petit Sperone beach, a hidden paradise. Accessible after a short walk, this beach is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and serene ambience. It's the perfect spot for a quiet moment before the sun sets.
Day 8: Porto-Vecchio on your Corsica road trip
Visit Porto-Vecchio for its heavenly beaches and historic heritage!
Escape to the citadel
Start by strolling through the old fortified town with its cobbled streets, small craft stores and lively terraces. Then head for the Genoese citadel, symbol of the town's historic resistance.
Visit the Port-Vecchio salt marshes in Corsica
Next, try out the Salins de Porto-Vecchio walk, remnants of an ancient salt exploitation, where the light of sunset creates magical reflections on the stretches of water.
The Ospédale dam
And for a unique experience, head for the Ospedale Dam. Perched at an altitude of 945 metres, this site offers breathtaking views of the valley and the sea. Surrounded by pine forests and granite rocks, this body of water will blow you away.
The mysterious Piscia di Gallu
Finally, if you like unusual discoveries, head for the mysterious Piscia di Gallu, a waterfall nestled in the mountains, a magical place for a hike in the heart of Corsican nature.
Visiting Corsica in 1 week: the best itinerary? Whatever route you take, you'll always be amazed! The editors ask me to go back on air. It's time to take the ferry back to Île Rousse after crossing Corsica via the mountains at Corte. Nevertheless, I haven't finished telling you all about what you can do on the Isle of Beauty! Continue the journey with the 23 must-do things to do in Corsica!
