Getting to Corsica and Getting Around Corsica

Getting to Corsica

By Air Corsica has four main airports:

• Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA): Located near Ajaccio, the island's capital. This is the busiest and most significant airport on the island, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

• Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA): Serving the northern part of the island, near Bastia.

• Calvi Sainte-Catherine Airport (CLY): Located in the northwest, near Calvi.

• Figari Sud-Corse Airport (FSC): In the south, near Porto-Vecchio and Bonifacio.

Major European airlines offer regular flights to these airports from cities such as Paris, Marseille, Nice, London, and Milan. Seasonal charter flights increase the number of destinations during the summer months.

By Ferry Corsica is well-connected by ferry from the French mainland and Italy. Major ferry companies include Corsica Ferries and Moby Lines. Key ferry routes include:

• From France: Ferries from Marseille, Toulon, and Nice to ports in Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and Ile Rousse.

• From Italy: Ferries from Livorno, Genoa, and Savona to Bastia and other Corsican ports.

• From Sardinia: Ferries from Santa Teresa Gallura to Bonifacio.

Ferries range from standard to high-speed options, with the journey time varying between 4 to 10 hours, depending on the route and vessel type.

Getting Around Corsica

By Car Renting a car is one of the most convenient ways to explore Corsica, providing the freedom to visit remote areas and travel at your own pace. Major car rental companies operate at airports and in larger towns. Corsica’s roads can be narrow and winding, particularly in mountainous regions, so driving requires caution and confidence.

By Bus Corsica has a network of bus services connecting major towns and tourist destinations. While bus travel is economical, schedules can be limited, especially outside peak tourist season. Timetables can vary, so it’s important to check schedules in advance. Key routes include:

• Ajaccio to Bastia

• Ajaccio to Porto-Vecchio

• Bastia to Calvi

  
  

By Train The Corsican railway network, known as "Chemins de Fer de la Corse" (CFC), offers a scenic and leisurely way to see the island. Trains are not the fastest mode of transport but provide a unique experience through Corsica's rugged landscapes. The main lines are:

• Ajaccio to Bastia: Passing through Corte and offering stunning mountain views.

• Bastia to Calvi: Along the northern coast with beautiful sea views.

  
  

By Boat Exploring Corsica by boat can be a wonderful experience, especially for accessing coastal areas and hidden coves. Boat rentals and charter services are available in major coastal towns. Regular boat services also connect coastal cities and provide access to nearby islands.

By Bicycle For the adventurous, cycling is a rewarding way to explore Corsica’s diverse landscapes. The island offers a mix of challenging mountain routes and scenic coastal rides. Bikes can be rented in major towns, and some accommodations offer bike-friendly facilities.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Taxis are available in larger towns and at airports, though they can be expensive for long distances. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not widely available in Corsica, so it’s advisable to rely on traditional taxis or pre-booked transfers.

Walking and Hiking Corsica is renowned for its hiking trails, with the GR20 being one of the most famous. Walking is a great way to explore the island’s natural beauty, from coastal paths to mountain trails. Ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear and maps.