In Ajaccio, the pastel hues of historic facades echo with tales of Napoleon amid the citrus-scented sea breezes that sweep through the lively markets and serene harbours of this Corsican jewel.
Follow the scent of freshly baked bread and the sounds of friendly chit-chat as you disembark from your cruise ship in Ajaccio and you’ll soon stumble upon the city’s morning market. Held every day (except Mondays), the market at Place Foch is a feast for the senses. Wander through its lively stalls, admiring rows of colourful fruit, racks of cured meats and every type of olive you can imagine. Give in to temptation and enjoy an impromptu picnic of a crusty baguette with juicy tomatoes and a delicious sliver of creamy goat’s cheese.
Born in Ajaccio in 1769, Napoleon Bonaparte is known as one of the greatest commanders in history and fought in 60 battles. Search the city for dedications to its most famous son and you’ll uncover statues in various guises, street names and even the local airport. Sited at the spot where he played as a child, Place d’Austerlitz at La Grotte de Napoléon is a grand monument which recalls the achievements of the French Emperor. His ancestral home, the Maison Bonaparte, also makes for an interesting insight into his life.
Cool down in the calm waters of Saint-Francis beach, just a short walk from the town. Dominated by a palm-lined promenade on Boulevard Lantivy, it makes for a relaxing spot to catch up on some reading, enjoy an ice cream or watch families at play. Slightly further afield is Ricanto, a two-mile stretch of sand, and Trottel Beach, located on Boulevard Albert, which is worth a stroll around. Around eight miles from the port where you will dock on your cruise to Ajaccio is Pointe de la Parata – a headland with a Genoese viewing tower that overlooks the seabird colonies and rare flora of the Iles Les Sanguinaires (Bloody Islands) archipelago.
Away from the hustle and bustle of Corsica’s main cities is a land of nature waiting to be explored on what will surely be an unforgettable Ajaccio cruise holiday. Less than an hour from Ajaccio you’ll find yourself amidst lush forests, quaint towns and beautiful landscapes. On route to the mountain village of Bocognano, you’ll pass the enchanting Lake Tolla – a hub for kayaking, canoeing and boating. Continue northeast and be surrounded by chestnut groves, the peaks of Monte d'Oro and the impressive Bridal Veil Falls. Venture even deeper to explore the pines of Rospa-Sorba or Vizzavona forest.
Which cruise lines sail to Ajaccio?
