For many travelers, Ajaccio serves as the first introduction to Corsica. Whether you arrive by plane or ferry, chances are your island adventure begins here. And to be honest? We didn\u2019t have sky-high expectations for Corsica\u2019s capital right off the bat\u2014mainly because we were looking forward so much more to all the other beautiful sights<\/a> the island has to offer. <\/p>\n But Ajaccio managed to pleasantly surprise us<\/strong>. The city has a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere<\/strong>, colorful facades, charming squares, and a beautiful seaside location. And then, of course, there is its history\u2014especially as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.<\/strong> <\/p>\n Ajaccio isn\u2019t as well-known as Bonifacio or Calvi, yet we highly recommend visiting. It is one of those cities that offers plenty to do, while also allowing you to simply enjoy the relaxed atmosphere<\/strong> (and it is far less touristy than Bonifacio). In this article, we provide an overview of the best things to do in Ajaccio (and the surrounding area<\/strong>), including our top tips and our favorite restaurants and places to stay. <\/p>\n Read more:<\/em><\/strong> The ultimate Corsica bucket list<\/a><\/p>\n Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte<\/strong> (August 15, 1769), and you notice this everywhere in the city. You will find various statues, monuments, museums, souvenirs, caf\u00e9s, street names, and more that reference the famous French emperor. Even the airport has been named after him since 2009. And even if history isn\u2019t really your thing, it is still enjoyable to stroll past the key sites and soak up the atmosphere. <\/p>\n A must-visit is Casa Bonaparte, Napoleon\u2019s birthplace.<\/strong> The house was owned by the Bonaparte family for several centuries. In 1923, an heir donated it to the French government, which has since transformed it into a fascinating museum. Inside, you can learn more about Napoleon and his family and view original 18th-century furniture. It has even been designated a National Museum\u2014the only one in Corsica. Be sure to also take a look at the garden opposite the house, where you can escape the hustle and bustle for a while. <\/p>\n TIP: <\/strong><\/em>Visiting Ajaccio with children<\/strong>? Then the Naporama museum<\/a> is highly recommended. In this fun museum, Napoleon\u2019s life and his most famous battles have been recreated using Playmobil figures. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Ajaccio\u2019s old town isn\u2019t particularly large, but it is incredibly charming. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the colorful facades, and soak up the lively atmosphere in the squares. You\u2019ll also find plenty of lovely boutiques and inviting terraces where you can sit and linger for hours. <\/p>\n We particularly enjoyed the pedestrian-only Rue Cardinal Fesch <\/strong>(during the day), with its many shops, restaurants, antique stores, and beautiful buildings, such as the Palais Fesch (see below). But be sure to also stroll through the small side streets and along the larger shopping street, Cours Napol\u00e9on<\/strong>, home to the post office, the vintage Cin\u00e9ma La\u00ebtitia<\/strong>, and the lovely Eglise Saint-Roch<\/strong>. <\/p>\n If you want to grab a bite to eat in the evening or soak up the lively atmosphere of this Mediterranean city, head to the historic old town between Place Foch and the citadel.<\/p>\n TIP:<\/em><\/strong> To get the most out of your visit to Ajaccio\u2019s old town, book a walking tour with an experienced guide<\/a> who can show you all the interesting facts, entertaining historical stories, and hidden corners.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n On Rue Cardinal Fesch, you will find the Palais Fesch, which now houses the Museum of Fine Arts<\/strong>. The palace was built in the 19th century by Napoleon\u2019s uncle, Cardinal Joseph Fesch, who used it to house his art collection. <\/p>\n Today, it houses a large collection of primarily Italian art<\/strong> (the largest collection in France after the Louvre), but also includes paintings by Flemish and Dutch artists, among others. <\/p>\n Definitely worth a visit if you love art or if the weather takes a turn for the worse! Be sure to check out the museum\u2019s courtyard, too\u2014it\u2019s a lovely spot to relax under the beautiful trees. <\/p>\n The city library is actually part of the Palais Fesch, but it can be visited for free via a separate entrance on Rue Cardinal Fesch. It is one of Ajaccio\u2019s lesser-known attractions, a hidden gem<\/strong> that many tourists walk right past because the entrance is rather inconspicuous. However, if you would like to see a genuine old library<\/strong>, you should definitely step inside. <\/p>\n The library was founded by Napoleon\u2019s brother, Lucien Bonaparte, and houses centuries-old books (dating back to the 16th century), often on art history. It is a nice place to wander around for ten minutes. <\/p>\n If you are looking for authentic Corsican delicacies, head to the new covered March\u00e9 d\u2019Ajaccio (Marcatu d\u2019Aiacciu<\/strong>). Here, you will find stalls filled with local cheeses, charcuterie, olive oil, honey, and wine. Even if you don\u2019t buy anything, it is delightful to simply stroll around and soak up the local atmosphere. <\/p>\n Go there in the morning, as it is open from 7:30 AM to 1:00 PM (except on Mondays). Unfortunately, it had just closed when we arrived. It can also get quite busy there on weekends. <\/p>\n The Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-l\u2019Assomption<\/strong>, built in the 16th century, is located in the oldest part of Ajaccio (not far from the citadel). The ochre-colored building is quite simple on the outside, but it boasts a lavish interior featuring numerous artworks and fine materials. <\/p>\n According to tradition, Letizia Bonaparte was in the cathedral when she went into labor, and Napoleon was born in their home shortly thereafter. He was also baptized in this cathedral at the age of two. <\/p>\n TIP: <\/em><\/strong>As you walk out of the cathedral, you have a view of the blue waters of the Mediterranean and the terrace of Bistrot Canaille <\/strong>on the small square in front. It is the perfect spot to order something and reflect on everything you have just seen. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n A lovely way to discover Ajaccio is simply to take a stroll along the harbor. There is the old harbor, near the citade<\/strong>l, where you can admire the many colorful boats. We enjoyed a leisurely walk along the quayside, watching fishing boats and yachts come and go while observing the harbor life from the terraces. It is especially delightful here in the late afternoon, when the sun is lower and the harbor slowly comes to life. <\/p>\n If you walk a little further, you reach the larger harbor<\/strong>, where ferries <\/strong>to Marseille, Nice, Toulon, Sardinia, and other Corsican towns dock. You can also often see cruise ships<\/strong> moored here\u2014a mixed blessing for the city. It may not be a spectacular \u201cmust-see\u201d attraction to tick off your list, but rather the kind of walk that lets you fully soak up the atmosphere of Ajaccio. <\/p>\n The citadel is one of Ajaccio\u2019s oldest landmarks, originally built atop a 14th-century fortress. Until recently, it was still used by the French army, but it is now owned by the city. While it is undoubtedly a beautiful site, we feel it could be made somewhat more appealing to visitors; quite a few structures remain dilapidated or closed off. Fortunately, admission is free. <\/p>\n What we particularly loved was the view from the outside of the defensive tower and the local beach<\/strong> (Plage Saint-Fran\u00e7ois), as well as the charming courtyard<\/strong>, which is now home to a caf\u00e9 and several lovely little boutiques and galleries. If you\u2019re lucky, there might even be live music playing. Be sure to walk up to the top for a magnificent view of the Gulf of Ajaccio and the Mediterranean Sea. <\/p>\n If you walk to the end of Rue Cardinal Fesch, you arrive at the charming Place Foch, one of our favorite spots in Ajaccio. This is the city\u2019s central square<\/strong> and its historic marketplace.<\/strong> Fresh food markets offering delicious produce are still held there; when we visited, a lively flea market was taking place. <\/p>\n But even when there is no market taking place, it is a pleasant spot<\/strong> to spend time, thanks to its many palm trees (hence the nickname *Piazza Palmiers*), the fountain featuring Napoleon (depicted as a Roman consul, flanked by four guardian lions), the town hall, the newsstand, benches, and the many caf\u00e9 terraces around the square where locals love to hang out. On Thursdays, you can also watch the Imperial Guard\u2019s 45-minute changing of the guard<\/strong> ceremony at the town hall. <\/p>\n TIP:<\/em><\/strong> Not far from Place de Foch, you\u2019ll find another waterfront square, Place de Gaulle <\/strong>which features a statue of Napoleon with his four brothers (further proof of Napoleon\u2019s importance to the city). It is also a great spot for families, offering all kinds of sweets, a carousel, bicycles, and more. In winter, you can even go ice skating there. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Normally, tourist trains like these aren\u2019t really our thing, but we wanted to mention this one anyway. For over 25 years, \u2018Le Petit Train d\u2019Ajaccio\u2019 has been running through Ajaccio and the surrounding area, offering commentary in eight different languages. It departs from Place Foch and follows two different routes.<\/strong> <\/p>\n You can either join the 45-minute tour through the imperial and old town (the little train reaches places where regular cars cannot pass), including a stop at Napoleon\u2019s Cave. Alternatively, you can opt for the longer tour (about an hour extra), which covers the same route but also travels to the Sanguinaires Islands. <\/p>\n The region around Ajaccio, located in western Corsica, is known for its beautiful sunsets. You cannot watch the sun set into the sea from the city itself<\/strong>, as it faces south. However, from the many terraces, you can certainly watch the sky slowly turn shades of orange and pink. <\/p>\n However, there are a number of spots near Ajaccio where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the sunset:<\/strong><\/p>\n Unfortunately, we weren\u2019t there at sunset, but that\u2019s just another good reason to come back sometime! <\/p>\n TIP:<\/em><\/strong> The Sentier des Cr\u00eates<\/strong> is also a great spot to watch the sunset, as it offers beautiful viewpoints overlooking the city and a sweeping view of the Gulf of Ajaccio. However, this woodland walk is well worth doing during the day, too\u2014it\u2019s the perfect way to briefly escape the city\u2019s hustle and bustle. <\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n Did you know that you can also find beautiful beaches near Ajaccio? There is, of course, Plage Saint-Fran\u00e7ois near the citadel\u2014which we mentioned earlier\u2014but that beach is quite small and crowded. A short drive from the city center, there are several other sandy beaches along the Gulf of Ajaccio where you can enjoy a swim and relax. <\/p>\n Near Pointe de la Parata, you will find Capo di Feno<\/strong> (nearly a kilometer long), Plage de Sevani<\/strong> (a quiet, fine-sand beach), the child-friendly Plage Terre Sacr\u00e9e<\/strong>, and Plage de Barbicaghja<\/strong> (close to the city and accessible by bus). On the other side of Ajaccio, past the airport, you can relax at Plage de Porticcio <\/strong>(though quite busy), Plage de Capitello<\/strong> (less crowded and great for snorkeling), and the beautiful Plage de Mare \u00c9 Sole<\/strong> (a bit further from the city). <\/p>\n One of our favorite day trips from Ajaccio<\/strong> was exploring Pointe de la Parata and the Sanguinaires Islands, located just half an hour from Ajaccio.<\/p>\n As previously mentioned, a very popular option is to visit the islands and the nature reserve by boat <\/strong>from Ajaccio, either at sunset<\/a> or during the day<\/a>. These boat trips usually allow you some time to go for a short walk on the islands themselves. <\/p>\n However, we chose to drive to Pointe de la Parata and hike from there to the very tip where the Genoese tower stands, from that vantage point<\/strong>, you also have a fantastic view of the islands, Capo di Feno, and the rugged Corsican coast. And we were even treated to a whole pod of dolphins! <\/p>\n In addition to boat trips to the Sanguinaires Islands, various boat excursions along Corsica\u2019s west coast also depart from Ajaccio\u2019s old harbor. The most common options are: <\/p>\n Even if you aren\u2019t a fan of organized excursions, the view from the water is absolutely worth it. There are several stalls in the old harbor where you can book tickets, but we recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season. <\/p>\n In Ajaccio, you will find a wide range of restaurants, bars, and caf\u00e9s serving traditional Corsican, French, and Italian cuisine, as well as fresh fish and modern Mediterranean dishes. The best and most atmospheric restaurants are not concentrated on a single main avenue but are scattered throughout the historic old town. Our tip? Don\u2019t limit yourself to the restaurants by the harbor; take a walk a little further into the town center. That is often where you\u2019ll discover the most delightful spots\u2014the kind the locals love to frequent. <\/p>\n There is the area above the central market square, Place Foch, featuring Boulevard du Roi J\u00e9r\u00f4me<\/strong>, Rue Cardinal Fesch<\/strong>, and Rue des Halles<\/strong>. And then there are the charming, lively streets below Place Foch, such as Rue du Roi de Rome<\/strong>, Rue Zevaco Maire,<\/strong> and Rue Bonaparte. <\/p>\n Here are some of our favorite spots in Ajaccio:<\/p>\n![\"pinterest](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/best-things-to-do-in-Ajaccio-683x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nPractical tips for Ajaccio<\/h2>\n
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What to do in Ajaccio<\/h2>\n
Immerse yourself in the story of Napoleon Bonaparte and his birthplace.<\/h3>\n
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![\"\"](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Maison-Bonaparte-House-Signs-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Garden](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Ajaccio-Maison-Bonaparte-House-Hanne-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nWander through the historic center<\/h3>\n
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![\"Colored](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Rue-Cardinal-Fesch-People-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Antique](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Rue-Cardinal-Fesch-Hanne-Antique-Shop-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVisit the Palais Fesch<\/h3>\n
![\"Palais](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Fesch-Museum-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nAdmire the city library<\/h3>\n
![\"Ajaccio](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Library-Bibliotheque-View-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Old](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Library-Books-Bibliotheque-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nTaste the local specialties at the Ajaccio market.<\/h3>\n
![\"Marcatu](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Marcatu-Market-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nDiscover the Cathedral of Ajaccio<\/h3>\n
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![\"Cathedrale](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Cathedral-Santa-Maria-Assunta-Square-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Interieur](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Cathedral-Santa-Maria-Assunta-Painting-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nStroll along the harbor of Ajaccio.<\/h3>\n
![\"Old](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Harbor-Boats-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Cruise](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Cruise-Ship-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVisit the citadel of Ajaccio.<\/h3>\n
![\"Citadel](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Citadelle-Beach-View-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Citadel](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Citadelle-Courtyard-Cafe-Bar-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nStroll around Place Foch<\/h3>\n
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![\"Churros](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Place-Foch-Food-Stall-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Reflection](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Place-Foch-Market-City-Hall-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nCome along for a ride on \u2018Le Petit Train d\u2019Ajaccio\u2019<\/h3>\n
![\"Le](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Maison-Bonaparte-Train-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nEnjoy the sunset<\/h3>\n
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![\"View](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Pointe-de-la-Parata-Iles-Sanguinaires-Lighthouse-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\nRelax on the beaches near Ajaccio.<\/h3>\n
![\"Plage](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Plage-de-Mare-E-Sole-Beach-Sand-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Beach](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Plage-de-Mare-E-Sole-Beach-Bar-Sunbeds-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nVisit Pointe de la Parata and the \u00celes Sanguinaires<\/h3>\n
![\"Two](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Pointe-de-la-Parata-View-Girls-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n![\"Walk](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Pointe-de-la-Parata-Hike-Family-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Dolphin](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Pointe-de-la-Parata-Dolphin-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nTake a boat trip along the coast.<\/h3>\n
![\"Tickets](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Ajaccio-Boat-Tours-Tickets-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n![\"Calanques](\"https:\/\/theglobalwizards.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/Calanques-de-Piana-Mountains-Views-Corsica.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nOur favorite restaurants in Ajaccio<\/h2>\n
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