Ajaccio, France: The Ultimate Travel Guide 2026

Ajaccio
Ajaccio

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.

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
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!

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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

City hall of Ajaccio
City hall of Ajaccio
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Rotavdrag
The Hôtel de Ville, Mairie d’Ajaccio or Merria d’Aiacciu is Ajaccio’s town hall, set right on Place Foch in the city center. Even if you’re not here for paperwork, it’s a handy landmark to orient yourself in town, with the square’s palms, cafés, and waterfront energy just steps away. It works best as a short, scenic stop on a walking…
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

We recommend to rent a car in France through Discover Cars, they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies. Book your rental car here.

Place Foch

Ajaccio Bon Pl JPG
Ajaccio Bon Pl JPG
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jean-Pol GRANDMONT
Place Foch is Ajaccio’s iconic central square, often nicknamed Place des Palmiers for its palm-lined setting and relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Sitting between the old town lanes and Rue Fesch, it’s an easy “first stop” that helps you get your bearings, whether you’ve just arrived from the port or you’re starting a day of sightseeing.Most visitors come for the atmosphere: the…
Location: Place Foch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.0km

Here is a complete selection of hotel options in Ajaccio. Feel free to review each one and choose the stay that best suits your needs.

Maison Bonaparte

Korsika Ajaccio Rue Saint Charles Maison Napoleon Bonaparte panoramio 2
Korsika Ajaccio Rue Saint Charles Maison Napoleon Bonaparte panoramio 2
CC BY-SA 3.0 / giggel
Maison Bonaparte is the historic townhouse in Ajaccio’s old town where Napoleon Bonaparte was born, now preserved as a museum dedicated to the Bonaparte family and the atmosphere of late-18th-century Corsica. It’s a compact, story-rich stop that pairs well with Ajaccio’s waterfront, cathedral area, and the walkable lanes of the historic center.Because it sits right in the heart of the…
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

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Marché d’Ajaccio

Ajaccio Marche JPG1
Ajaccio Marche JPG1
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Jean-Pol GRANDMONT
Marché d’Ajaccio or Marcatu d’Aiacciu is Ajaccio’s central market, a classic Corsican morning ritual where locals and visitors browse seasonal produce, cheeses, charcuterie, seafood, pastries, and bottles from the island’s vineyards. Set right in the city center, it’s an easy, high-reward stop for anyone who wants to taste Ajaccio rather than just see it. It also fits perfectly into a…
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

Explore Ajaccio at your own pace with our self-guided walking tour! Follow our curated route to discover must-see sights and local secrets that makes Ajaccio one of the best places to visit in France.

Oratory of Saint John the Baptist

Oratoire Saint Jean Baptiste dAjaccio panoramio 1
Oratoire Saint Jean Baptiste dAjaccio panoramio 1
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Björn S.
Tucked into Ajaccio’s historic fabric, Église Saint Jean-Baptiste or Oratory of Saint John the Baptist is a small but characterful church on Rue du Roi de Rome, right at the corner with Rue Saint-Charles. It’s the kind of place you might pass on the way between Ajaccio’s old streets and the city’s better-known Napoleonic landmarks—yet it rewards anyone who steps…
Location: Rue Roi de Rome, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Check official website. | Price: Free; donations appreciated. | Website | Distance: 0.2km

Préfecture de Corse

Hotel de prefecture de Corse du Sud
Hotel de prefecture de Corse du Sud
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Velvet
The Préfecture de Corse or Prifettura di Corsica, housed in the Palais Lantivy, is one of Ajaccio’s most recognizable civic landmarks, set right in the city center near the main boulevards and everyday bustle. Even if you’re not here for administrative business, it’s worth noting on your map as a handsome historic building with a formal presence and a pleasant…
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

Ajaccio cathedrale facade
Ajaccio cathedrale facade
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Myrabella
Cathedral Santa Maria Assunta sits in Ajaccio’s atmospheric old town, just a short stroll from the waterfront and the old port. From the outside it can feel modest and almost easy to miss, but step through the doors and the mood changes fast: the interior is richly decorated, bright, and far more dramatic than you’d expect from the façade. It’s…
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

Citadelle dAjaccio
Citadelle dAjaccio
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Rotavdrag
Set on Ajaccio’s waterfront, the Citadelle d’Ajaccio is a Genoese-era fortress that anchors the edge of the old town and the port area. Even when parts of the complex aren’t fully accessible, it’s still a worthwhile stop for the setting: stone ramparts, sea air, and a compact, walkable perimeter that fits neatly into a day in central Ajaccio.It’s especially easy…
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

Ajaccio musee Fesch
Ajaccio musee Fesch
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Velvet
The Fesch Museum (Palais Fesch – Musée des Beaux-Arts) is Ajaccio’s flagship fine-arts museum, set right in the historic center a short stroll from the waterfront and the city’s Napoleon-related landmarks. It’s an easy add-on to an old-town wander, especially if you want a cultural break between cafés, markets, and seaside viewpoints.Many travelers visit the Fesch Museum as part of…
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

Corsica Ajaccio monument Napoleon Place du General de Gaulle
Corsica Ajaccio monument Napoleon Place du General de Gaulle
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Isiwal
Place de Gaulle is one of Ajaccio’s most central open spaces, sitting between the city’s waterfront energy and the streets that lead into the historic core. It’s best thought of as a landmark square and meeting point: a place to pause, orient yourself, and enjoy the coastal light rather than a destination packed with activities.Most visitors experience Place de Gaulle…
Location: Place du Général de Gaulle, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.3km

Port d’Ajaccio

Celebrity Silhouette Ajaccio 2015
Celebrity Silhouette Ajaccio 2015
CC BY-SA 2.0 / JeanbaptisteM
Port de Commerce d’Ajaccio – Portu di Cummerciu d’Aiacciu is Ajaccio’s main commercial harbor, where ferries and many cruise calls connect Corsica with mainland France and beyond. Set right on the edge of the city center, it’s less a “single attraction” and more a lively front door to Ajaccio, with sea views, ship-spotting, and a constant sense of movement.Even if…
Location: 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 0.3km

Chapelle Impériale

Chapelle imperiale 2
Chapelle imperiale 2
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Eveha
Tucked into the Palais Fesch complex in central Ajaccio, the Chapelle impériale – Cappella imperiale is one of the city’s most atmospheric heritage stops: a refined neo-Renaissance chapel built as a dynastic sanctuary, with a crypt linked to the Bonaparte family. It’s an easy add-on to a walking tour of Ajaccio’s historic center, especially if you’re already visiting the Palais…
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

saint bernard naporama
saint bernard naporama
All Rights Reserved / Napo-rama
Tucked into Ajaccio’s Old Town, NapoRama is a small, privately run museum that brings Napoleon’s story to life through handcrafted dioramas made with Playmobil-style figures. It’s the kind of place you might walk past without noticing, which makes stepping inside feel like finding a secret exhibit.Because it sits right in the historic center near the waterfront lanes, NapoRama fits perfectly…
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

Port Tino Rossi – Ajaccio
Port Tino Rossi – Ajaccio
CC BY-SA 2.0 / JeanbaptisteM
Port Tino Rossi is Ajaccio’s most walkable harbour edge: a compact fishing-and-leisure port where you get the atmosphere of a working waterfront without losing the convenience of being steps from the Old Town. It is less about “one landmark photo” and more about the feeling of Ajaccio facing the sea—boats at berth, quayside cafés, and the steady flow of people…
Location: Port Tino Rossi, Port Tino Rossi, Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours | Price: Free | Website | Distance: 0.4km

Plage Saint-François

Corsica Ajaccio Plage St Francoise Andrea panoramio
Corsica Ajaccio Plage St Francoise Andrea panoramio
CC BY-SA 3.0 / jeffwarder
Plage Saint-François – Arinella San Francescu is Ajaccio’s most convenient “dip-and-go” beach: a small stretch of sand right in the city centre, close to the port and just before the citadel. It’s the kind of place you can reach on foot in minutes, making it perfect for a quick swim between sightseeing stops. Because it sits beside a palm-lined waterfront…
Location: 6 Bd Pascal Rossini, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.4km

Église Saint-Roch

Chiesa di Saint Roch ad Ajaccio
Chiesa di Saint Roch ad Ajaccio
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Fpittui
Église Saint-Roch – Ghjesgia San Roccu is a handsome neoclassical parish church in central Ajaccio, set right along Cours Napoléon. It’s an easy, rewarding stop if you’re exploring the city on foot, especially as part of a self-guided walking tour linking the port, the old town streets, and Ajaccio’s main squares. Even if you’re not planning a long church-hopping itinerary,…
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

Korsika Ajaccio Rue Cardinal Fesch panoramio
Korsika Ajaccio Rue Cardinal Fesch panoramio
CC BY-SA 3.0 / giggel
Rue Cardinal Fesch is one of Ajaccio’s most central, walkable streets, best known as a lively pedestrian corridor lined with shops, cafés, and everyday city life. It sits right in the heart of town, making it an easy “thread-the-needle” route between key squares and several of Ajaccio’s headline sights. If you’re doing a self-guided walking tour, this is a natural…
Location: Rue Cardinal Fesch, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Distance: 0.4km

Château Conti

AjaccioGrandHotelOriental 2018 04
AjaccioGrandHotelOriental 2018 04
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Mussklprozz
Château Conti is a historic landmark on Ajaccio’s elegant Cours Grandval, a short stroll from the waterfront and the city’s central sights. Long associated with Ajaccio’s belle-époque identity as a winter resort, it’s best understood today as a heritage building in transition: admired from the outside and discussed locally for its ambitious rehabilitation plans.If you’re exploring Ajaccio on foot, Château…
Location: 26 Cr Grandval, 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: Check official website. | Price: Check official website. | Website | Distance: 0.6km

Église du Sacré Cœur

2019 03 11 Aida Ajaccio 100
2019 03 11 Aida Ajaccio 100
CC BY-SA 2.0 / Bewahrerderwerte
Set slightly back from Ajaccio’s waterfront bustle, the Église du Sacré Cœur – Ghjesgia à u Sacru Core is a striking neo-Byzantine church on Boulevard Sylvestre Marcaggi, easy to include as a calm, reflective stop between city sights. Even if you only have a short window, it’s worth approaching for the façade and the sense of local life around the…
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

Napoleon memorial panoramio
Napoleon memorial panoramio
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Björn S.
Piazza D’Austerlitz, often called Place du Casone is one of Ajaccio’s most recognizable open-air landmarks, built around a dramatic Napoleon monument set on a sloped granite base. Sitting slightly above the waterfront and city center, it’s a natural viewpoint and a quick, rewarding walk if you want a classic Ajaccio photo without committing to a museum visit. Most travelers visit…
Location: 20000 Ajaccio, France | Hours: 24 Hours. | Price: Free. | Website | Distance: 1.2km
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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

Îles Sanguinaires
Îles Sanguinaires
Off the western coast of Ajaccio lies the Îles Sanguinaires, an archipelago famed for its crimson glow at sunset and wild, unspoiled nature. Composed of four rugged islands, the largest being Mezzu Mare, this protected reserve offers a spectacular contrast of scarlet cliffs and deep-blue waters. Its name, meaning “Blood Islands,” captures the fiery transformation that takes place each evening…
Location: Îles Sanguinaires, Ajaccio, France | Distance: 12.9km
Visiting Sanguinaires Islands
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Bastia

Bastia, Corsica, France
Bastia, Corsica, France
Bastia is a vibrant town located on the northeastern coast of Corsica, offering visitors a blend of beautiful landscapes and rich cultural experiences. The town's picturesque old port is lined with colorful buildings and bustling cafés, perfect for a relaxing stroll or enjoying local cuisine. Visitors can explore the charming streets of the old town, full of narrow alleys and…
Visiting Bastia
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Alghero

Alghero
Alghero
Visiting Alghero, a picturesque coastal town on the northwest coast of Sardinia, offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that is unique to this part of Italy. Known as "Little Barcelona" due to its strong Catalan influence, Alghero boasts a charming old town with narrow cobblestone streets, Gothic architecture, and a vibrant harbor. The town's rich history is…
Visiting Alghero
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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
  • February 12°C
  • March 14°C
  • April 16°C
  • May 21°C
  • June 27°C
  • July 29°C
  • August 28°C
  • September 25°C
  • October 22°C
  • November 16°C
  • December 13°C

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.