Ajaccio, France: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Visiting Ajaccio felt like stepping into a laid-back Mediterranean dream. The moment I arrived, the salty air and bright Corsican light hit me-there’s something so effortlessly beautiful about this place. I started my mornings with a slow stroll along the harbor, where colorful fishing boats rocked gently in the water and cafés buzzed with quiet energy. One afternoon, I wandered through the narrow streets of the old town, ducking into shops with handmade soaps and Corsican charcuterie, then cooled off at Saint-François Beach just a short walk away.
I spent a few hours at the Fesch Museum, mostly for the calm vibe and the surprisingly great collection of Italian paintings. Another highlight was hiking up to the Parata Point to see the Îles Sanguinaires-those red rocks glowing at sunset really live up to the hype. Evenings were all about fresh seafood, local wine, and catching that perfect golden hour light across the bay. Ajaccio isn't flashy or packed with big sights, but that's part of its charm-it's more about soaking it all in.
Table of Contents
- History of Ajaccio
- 20 Best places to See in Ajaccio
- Hôtel de Ville
- Place Foch
- Maison Bonaparte
- Marché d’Ajaccio
- Oratory of Saint John the Baptist
- Préfecture de Corse
- Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta
- Citadelle d'Ajaccio
- Fesch Museum
- Place de Gaulle
- Port d’Ajaccio
- Chapelle Impériale
- NapoRama
- Port Tino Rossi
- Plage Saint-François
- Église Saint-Roch
- Rue Cardinal Fesch
- Château Conti
- Église du Sacré Cœur
- Piazza D’Austerlitz
- 3 Best Day Trips from Ajaccio
- Where to Stay in Ajaccio
- Best Time to Visit Ajaccio
- How to get to Ajaccio
History of Ajaccio
Early Origins of Ajaccio
Ajaccio’s history stretches back to ancient times, with evidence suggesting early settlements by Ligurian tribes and later by the Greeks and Romans. Though not a major urban center in antiquity, the area was strategically important thanks to its sheltered gulf and fertile surroundings. Over the centuries, Ajaccio slowly evolved, shaped by the ebb and flow of various Mediterranean powers.
Ajaccio Under Genoese Rule
In the late Middle Ages, the Republic of Genoa established control over Ajaccio, fortifying the town in the 15th century and laying out much of the grid-like structure still visible in the old town today. The Genoese brought trade, architecture, and a lasting cultural imprint, but tensions often flared between the ruling elite and the local Corsican population.
Napoleon Bonaparte and Ajaccio’s Rise to Fame
Ajaccio’s most famous native, Napoleon Bonaparte, was born here in 1769, shortly after France acquired Corsica from Genoa. His connection to the city elevated its historical status significantly. The Bonaparte family home is now a museum, and Ajaccio proudly commemorates Napoleon through monuments, street names, and public buildings.
Modern History of Ajaccio
In the 19th and 20th centuries, Ajaccio grew as a port and administrative center, attracting artists, intellectuals, and travelers seeking its mild climate and coastal charm. It played roles in both World Wars and later emerged as a key point of Corsican identity and culture. Today, Ajaccio blends its historical layers with a relaxed, modern Mediterranean lifestyle, drawing visitors who appreciate both its past and present.
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
Visiting Ajaccio for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Ajaccio on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
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20 Best places to See in Ajaccio
This complete guide to Ajaccio not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Ajaccio and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Hôtel de Ville

Location: Av. Antoine Serafini, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Monday – Friday: 08:00–12:00 & 14:00–17:30. Saturday: Closed. Sunday: Closed. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.0km
Place Foch

Location: Place Foch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.0km
Maison Bonaparte

Location: Rue Saint-Charles, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: (Summer) April 1 – September 30; Tuesday – Sunday: 10:30–12:30 & 13:15–18:00. Closed on Monday. (Winter) October 1 – March 31; Tuesday – Sunday: 10:30–12:30 & 13:15–16:30. Closed on Monday. | Price: Adults: €7; Reduced: €5; Under 26 (EU residents): free. | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Marché d’Ajaccio

Location: 7 Bd du Roi Jérôme, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Tuesday – Sunday: 07:00–13:00. Monday: 07:00–13:00 (summer only). | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.1km
Oratory of Saint John the Baptist

Location: Rue Roi de Rome, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Check official website. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Préfecture de Corse

Location: Cr Napoléon, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Monday – Friday: 08:30–11:30 & 13:30–15:30. Closed on Saturday, Sunday. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta

Location: Rue Forcioli Conti, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 08:30–11:30 & 14:30–17:45. Sunday: 08:30–11:30. | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.2km
Citadelle d'Ajaccio

Location: 8-10 Bd Danièle Casanova, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 09:00–20:00. Thursday – Friday: 09:00–23:00. Saturday – Sunday: 09:00–20:00. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Fesch Museum

Location: 50-52 Rue Cardinal Fesch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: (Summer) May 1 – October 31; Daily: 09:15–18:00. (Winter) November 1 – April 30; Daily: 09:00–17:00. | Price: Adults: €9; Reduced: €6. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Place de Gaulle

Location: Place du Général de Gaulle, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.3km
Port d’Ajaccio

Location: 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Chapelle Impériale

Location: 50-54 Rue Cardinal Fesch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: (Summer) May 1 – October 31; Daily: 09:15–18:00. | Price: Adults: €9; Reduced: €6; Groups: €6. | Website | Distance: 0.3km
NapoRama

Location: 13 Rue Forcioli Conti, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 11:00–17:00. Sunday - Tuesday: Closed. | Price: Adults: €4 | Website | Distance: 0.3km
Port Tino Rossi

Location: Port Tino Rossi, Port Tino Rossi, Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Plage Saint-François

Location: 6 Bd Pascal Rossini, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.4km
Église Saint-Roch

Location: 29 Cr Napoléon, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Monday – Saturday: 07:30–19:30. Sunday: 07:30–12:30 & 15:30–19:30. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 0.4km
Rue Cardinal Fesch

Location: Rue Cardinal Fesch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.4km
Château Conti

Location: 26 Cr Grandval, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Check official website. | Price: Check official website. | Website | Distance: 0.6km
Église du Sacré Cœur

Location: 10 Bd Sylvestre Marcaggi, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Daily: 08:00–19:00. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 0.8km
Piazza D’Austerlitz

Location: 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 1.2km
Best Day Trips from Ajaccio
A day trip from Ajaccio offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Ajaccio provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Sanguinaires Islands

Location: Îles Sanguinaires, Ajaccio, France | Distance: 12.9km
Visiting Sanguinaires Islands
Bastia

Visiting Bastia
Alghero

Visiting Alghero
Where to Stay in Ajaccio
For a luxurious stay, Hotel Les Mouettes is a standout choice. This 19th-century villa offers elegant rooms with sea views, a private beach, and a serene pool area. Another top-tier option is Hotel Dolce Vita, which boasts modern interiors, a private beach, and stunning views of the Sanguinary Islands.
Travelers seeking boutique accommodations might consider Hotel San Carlu Citadelle. Located near the citadel, this hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms and a rooftop bar with panoramic views of Ajaccio Bay. Alternatively, Palazzu U Domu provides a blend of historical charm and modern amenities in the heart of the old town.
For those on a budget, Hotel Marengo offers comfortable accommodations with a friendly atmosphere. Another affordable option is Ibis Styles Ajaccio Napoleon, which features modern rooms and a convenient location near the city center.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Ajaccio. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Ajaccio Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Ajaccio
Visiting Ajaccio in Spring (March to May)
Spring is one of the best times to visit Ajaccio. The city starts to bloom with wildflowers, the temperatures are mild, and the crowds are still light. It’s perfect for strolling the old town, hiking coastal trails, or enjoying quiet beach days before the summer rush. By late April and May, cafés spill onto sunlit squares and the local markets are full of fresh produce.
Visiting Ajaccio in Summer (June to August)
Ajaccio is at its liveliest in summer. The beaches are at their best, boat excursions are in full swing, and local festivals bring the streets to life. Expect warm temperatures, long sunny days, and a festive buzz. It’s the most popular time, so booking early is essential. Ideal for swimming, sailing, and soaking up Corsican culture.
Visiting Ajaccio in Autumn (September to November)
Autumn in Ajaccio brings softer light, fewer tourists, and pleasantly warm days. September is still great for beach time, while October and November offer peaceful walks, wine harvest events, and cozy meals with seasonal Corsican ingredients. It’s a great time to slow down and enjoy the city at a relaxed pace.
Visiting Ajaccio in Winter (December to February)
Winter is Ajaccio’s quietest season. While it’s not ideal for swimming, the city stays mild and charming. Locals reclaim the streets, and the festive period brings markets and lights to the old town. It’s a good time for those seeking a low-key escape, with the bonus of lower prices and a more authentic, everyday feel.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 12°C 56°F
- February 12°C 58°F
- March 14°C 61°F
- April 16°C 65°F
- May 21°C 74°F
- June 27°C 84°F
- July 29°C 87°F
- August 28°C 87°F
- September 25°C 80°F
- October 22°C 76°F
- November 16°C 65°F
- December 13°C 60°F
How to get to Ajaccio
Getting to Ajaccio by Air
Ajaccio is served by Napoléon Bonaparte Airport, located just a short drive from the city center. It's the most convenient entry point, with regular flights from mainland France (like Paris, Marseille, and Nice) as well as seasonal routes from other European cities. The airport is small but efficient, and you can pick up a rental car right on-site if you're planning to explore more of Corsica.
Getting to Ajaccio by Ferry
Ferries to Ajaccio run regularly from Marseille, Toulon, and Nice, with overnight and daytime options. The port is centrally located, making for a scenic arrival right into the heart of the city. It's a great choice if you're bringing a car or want a more leisurely start to your Corsican adventure. Ferry travel also gives you stunning views of the coastline as you approach.
Getting Around Ajaccio
Ajaccio is compact and walkable, especially the old town and waterfront areas. For nearby beaches or countryside drives, renting a car is highly recommended. There’s also a local bus network, and taxis are available, though less frequent outside of peak season. If you’re staying in the city, walking and public transport are often enough.


