Best Places to Visit in Haute-Corse

Welcome to Corsica, the island of beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Mediterranean, Corsica dazzles its visitors with the stunning diversity of its landscapes. From majestic mountains to white sandy beaches, passing through cities steeped in history and picturesque villages, this island offers an unforgettable travel experience. In this article, we will take you through Haute-Corse, a region that perfectly embodies the natural and cultural splendor of the island. Get ready to discover the hidden treasures of this fascinating destination, where every turn of the road reveals a new facet of Corsican beauty.

Discover our top 8 best places to visit in Haute-Corse!

1. Bastia

The port city of Bastia, located on the eastern coast of Corsica, is the ideal starting point to explore the northern region of the island. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, you will instantly be seduced by the Mediterranean atmosphere that reigns here. Start your visit with the majestic Citadelle de Bastia, a historic fortress that offers a panoramic view of the city and port. Then, head to Place Saint-Nicolas, the living place of the Bastiais and theater of many events. One of Bastia's highlights is the famous Boulevard Paoli, an elegant avenue lined with shops, cafés and restaurants, perfect for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy dining at one of the local restaurants near the Vieux-Port to taste authentic Corsican dishes, such as fish soup, Corsican charcuterie and fiadone (Corsican cheese dessert).

Find our complete article on the best activities to do in Bastia by clicking here.

2. Cap Corse

View of the village of Erbalunga

Set off for Cap Corse, a wild and preserved peninsula. Stop at Erbalunga, a charming fishing village with a picturesque small port. Continue your journey to Macinaggio, where you can admire the coastal landscapes. Explore Centuri, a fishing village renowned for its seafood restaurants. One of the gems of Cap Corse is the île de la Giraglia, a small island that marks the northernmost point of the island. It is famous for its emblematic lighthouse, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings. Moreover, the customs officers' path, a picturesque coastal trail that runs along the coast, is an exceptional way to discover the raw beauty of Cap Corse. While following this trail, you will be amazed by the steep cliffs, isolated coves, and a sparkling blue sea.

3. Saint-Florent

Nestled at the foot of the mountains and bordered by white sandy beaches, this small port city is a jewel of the Mediterranean. Its lively marina attracts travelers and sailing enthusiasts from around the world, while the old town, with its narrow streets and stone buildings, exudes an authentic and picturesque atmosphere. Saint-Florent is also the ideal starting point to explore the surrounding treasures, such as the nature reserve of Désert des Agriates and the paradise beaches that surround it. You can savor Corsican cuisine in the numerous restaurants, taste local wines in the wine cellars, and relax on the beaches of la Roya and la Saleccia.

4. Désert des Agriates

Located on the northwest coast of the island, the Désert des Agriates is famous for its immaculate beaches of fine sand and crystalline waters. Here, time seems to stop, offering visitors a haven of peace to recharge. To access this preserved paradise, a boat excursion from Saint-Florent is often necessary, which adds a touch of adventure to this unique experience. When you reach the shores of the Désert des Agriates, you will be amazed by the raw beauty of nature, the isolated coves, and the picturesque hiking trails. Whether you wish to relax on the beach, explore the trails on foot or by mountain bike, or simply soak up the tranquility of this place, the Désert des Agriates is an unmissable escape in Corsica.

5. Corte

Nestled in the heart of the island, this Corsican-speaking city is framed by majestic peaks, creating a spectacular natural setting. At the heart of Corte stands the Citadelle de Corte, an imposing fortress that was once the seat of power in Corsica. Today, it houses the Musée de la Corse, an institution that traces the fascinating history of the island. As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of the old town, you will discover artisanal shops, lively cafés, and don't miss Place Paoli, a lively central place. Hiking enthusiasts will be delighted by the proximity of the Parc Naturel Régional de Corse, offering a multitude of trails to explore.

6. Calvi

Calvi, pearl of the western coast of Corsica, seduces with its Mediterranean charm and captivating history. At the heart of this city stands the majestic Citadelle de Calvi, an unmissable historic site that dominates the bay and offers a breathtaking view of the sea. Strolling through its cobblestone streets, lined with typical shops and restaurants, is a true enchantment. The quays of Calvi bordering the turquoise sea are a lively place where you can relax, enjoy an ice cream or coffee on the terrace, or admire the pleasure boats in the port. The beach of Calvi, with its golden sand and crystalline waters, is also an invitation to swimming and water sports.

Enjoy the crystalline water and seabeds with these activities in Calvi:

7. Réserve Naturelle de Scandola

The Réserve Naturelle de Scandola is a natural wonder listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This enchanting site is a true treasure of biodiversity, home to an impressive variety of fauna and flora. Visitors who venture into this breathtaking reserve are rewarded with spectacular rock formations, marine caves, isolated coves and crystal blue water. Boat excursions from coastal cities like Calvi allow you to explore this natural treasure, whether by admiring the rock formations sculpted by time, or by observing the colorful marine life during snorkeling sessions.

8. La Balagne

View of the village of Lumio

La Balagne, nicknamed the "garden of Corsica", is a region blessed by nature and culture. This region offers a striking contrast between its rolling landscapes, golden beaches and perched villages. Exploring la Balagne, you will discover hidden gems such as Pigna, an artisan village renowned for its art and music workshops, Sant'Antonino, classified among the most beautiful villages in France with its cobblestone streets and panoramic views, and Lumio, which offers a breathtaking view of the Corsican coast. The region is also renowned for its vineyards, where you can taste flavorful Corsican wines.

Find our complete article on the specialties around Bastia by clicking here.

How to get to Haute-Corse?

Depending on your starting point and preferred mode of transport, you can choose the best option to get to Haute-Corse:

• Plane: Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA) is the main gateway to Haute-Corse. Once at the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car or use public transport to reach your final destination.
• Ferry: If you are traveling from mainland France, you can take a ferry from ports such as Marseille, Nice, or Toulon to the ports of Bastia or Calvi in Haute-Corse. Ferry crossings often offer an option to transport your own vehicle. Once on the island, you can explore Haute-Corse by car. Make sure to check ferry schedules and book in advance if you plan to bring your vehicle.