Place de Gaulle, Ajaccio

Area, Monument and Square in Ajaccio

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 as part of a walking tour of “Napoleon's Ajaccio,” or as a natural stop when strolling from the port toward the shopping streets and markets. For the best experience, come with a simple plan: see the monument, take in the views toward the sea, then continue on to nearby museums, the old town lanes, or a café break.

History and Significance of the Place de Gaulle

Place de Gaulle reflects Ajaccio's identity as an “Imperial City” closely tied to Napoleon Bonaparte. The square's most recognizable feature is the monumental tribute to Napoleon, which anchors the space and signals the city's pride in its most famous native.

Over time, the square has functioned as a civic hinge between the administrative and cultural center of town and the waterfront. It’s the kind of place where locals pass through on errands and visitors naturally gather because it’s easy to find, open, and close to many of Ajaccio’s headline sights.

Today, Place de Gaulle is less about a single historic building and more about the atmosphere: a public space that frames Ajaccio's everyday life, from casual strolls to people-watching and quick photo stops on the way to the beach or the old town.

Things to See and Do in the Place de Gaulle

The main draw is the Napoleon monument, a classic Ajaccio photo stop and a useful reference point for navigating the center. Even if you're not deeply interested in history, it's worth a few minutes to appreciate the scale and symbolism before moving on.

Because the square is open and close to the shore, it’s also a pleasant place to slow down. Many travelers enjoy sitting in the sun, taking in the sea air, and using the square as a reset between sightseeing blocks.

Finally, Place de Gaulle is a practical launchpad. From here, it's easy to continue on foot to shopping streets, local markets, museums, and waterfront promenades, making it ideal for travelers who want a flexible “choose-your-own” itinerary without committing to a long visit.

How to Get to the Place de Gaulle

The nearest airport is Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport (AJA), with additional options on Corsica including Bastia Poretta Airport (BIA) and Figari–Sud Corse Airport (FSC). For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Ajaccio on Booking.com.

Ajaccio is connected by rail within Corsica, and the city's train station is walkable or a short taxi ride from the central area around Place de Gaulle. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place..

If you’re traveling by car, aim for public parking near the city center and continue on foot, as central streets can be busy and parking fills quickly in peak season. 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..

Practical Tips on Visiting the Place de Gaulle

  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Opening hours: 24 Hours.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon into early evening is ideal for softer light and a relaxed stroll before dinner, while mornings are calmer for quick photos and orientation.
  • How long to spend: Plan 10–30 minutes if you’re just stopping for the monument and views, or up to an hour if you’re pairing it with cafés and a slow walk toward the waterfront.
  • Accessibility: The square is generally flat and straightforward for strollers and wheelchairs, but expect typical city-surface bumps and occasional works or barriers.
  • Facilities: You’ll find cafés and shops nearby for drinks and breaks; dedicated public restrooms may be limited, so plan a café stop if needed.

Where to Stay Close to the Place de Gaulle

Base yourself in central Ajaccio near the waterfront and old town for the easiest, most walkable stay.

Hôtel Fesch & Spa A strong pick for travelers who want to be in the middle of the action, with easy access to shopping streets and a quick walk to the square.

Hôtel San Carlu Chosen for its central waterfront positioning, making it convenient for port walks, day tours, and quick returns between sightseeing stops.

Best Western Plus Ajaccio Amirauté A practical option if you want a reliable full-service stay with straightforward access to the center while avoiding the tightest old-town streets.

Hôtel Napoléon Included for its classic Ajaccio theme and solid location for travelers focused on Napoleon-related sights and an easy walking itinerary.

Hôtel Le Dauphin A good-value choice for travelers who want a simple, central base within easy reach of the square, cafés, and the waterfront.

Is the Place de Gaulle Worth Visiting?

Yes, Place de Gaulle is worth visiting as a quick, high-convenience stop that helps you “unlock” central Ajaccio. It's not a deep-dive attraction, but it's an excellent place to get your bearings, see the Napoleon monument, and connect your day's walk between the port, shopping streets, and the old town.

Honest Pivot: If you're short on time and prefer attractions with lots to do on-site (museums, guided interiors, gardens with extensive paths), you can treat Place de Gaulle as a pass-through point rather than a dedicated visit—especially if parts are under renovation or construction during your trip.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (1,815)

Reviews are generally positive, with many travelers describing Place de Gaulle as a pleasant central stop that's close to the beach, port, and city center. Visitors like the Napoleon monument and the chance to relax in the sun, plus the convenience of nearby cafés and shopping streets. The most common downsides are that it can feel sparse or overly concrete if you expect a lush park, facilities like restrooms may be limited, and occasional construction can make the visit frustrating.

Jeffrey Parrish
6 years ago
"This is a concrete park in the city with a worthy statue of Napolean and brothers. Part of the park has an elevated view of the shore which is quitenice. Otherwise there just isn't much here but nearby cafes. Bathrooms would be a welcome addition...."
Traci Frederick
8 months ago
"no，it's still under construction. I am in this location right now，spent time to find it. such a waste！"
Kinga Muszik
6 years ago
"Enjoying the sun here is very much relaxing. No wine, champagne at the little bars though, only beer..."

For Different Travelers

Place de Gaulle works best as a flexible stop you can scale up or down depending on your pace. It's easy to combine with nearby museums, the waterfront, and a café break, so most travelers can fit it in without rearranging their day.

Families with Kids

For families, the biggest advantage is space: it’s an open area where kids can stretch their legs between more structured stops. It also makes a convenient meeting point if your group splits up for shopping or snacks.

Keep expectations simple. Treat it as a short break on a longer walk—pair it with a beach stop or a quick treat nearby to keep the momentum going.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will appreciate Place de Gaulle most as part of a sunset-leaning stroll: monument photos, sea air, then a drink or dinner nearby. It's a low-effort, high-atmosphere stop that fits naturally into an evening plan.

If you like photography, come when the light is softer and the square feels calmer. The combination of civic monumentality and coastal ambience can be surprisingly romantic in the right moment.

Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, Place de Gaulle is an easy win: it's free, central, and pairs well with self-guided walking routes. You can build a full half-day around it by walking the waterfront, browsing markets, and choosing affordable snacks from bakeries.

It's also useful as a “reset point” between attractions. If you're minimizing transport costs, staying central and walking from Place de Gaulle to nearby sights keeps the day simple and cheap.

FAQs for Visiting Place de Gaulle

Getting There

Yes, it’s typically an easy walk from the central port area, making it a common first stop after arrival. If you have luggage or limited mobility, a short taxi ride is the simplest option.
Local buses serve central Ajaccio, and you can usually get close with a short final walk. Routes vary by season, so confirm the nearest stop once you’re in town.
Yes, it’s a well-known central landmark and a natural junction between the waterfront and the streets leading inland. Using the Napoleon monument as your visual cue makes navigation straightforward.

Tickets & Entry

No, it’s a public square and open-access area. You can visit casually at any time.
Not typically; the monument and the square itself are free to enjoy. Any costs are usually for nearby museums, tours, or cafés.
The square itself doesn’t require a fee, but it’s often included in paid walking tours of Ajaccio. If you want historical context, a tour can be worth it.

Visiting Experience

The highlight is the Napoleon monument and the sense of place it gives to central Ajaccio. It’s a quick stop that works best when paired with nearby sights.
It feels more like a civic square with open space than a lush garden. Think “meeting point and landmark” rather than “destination park.”
It can happen, and it may reduce the charm or limit access to certain areas. If that’s the case, treat it as a brief photo stop and continue to the waterfront or old town.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Yes, it commonly appears on Napoleon-focused itineraries because it’s central and symbolic. It pairs naturally with nearby museums and historic streets.
Start at the port, walk to Place de Gaulle for the monument, then continue to the old town and finish with a waterfront stroll. Add a market stop if you’re visiting in the morning.
If you enjoy history, a guide helps connect the monument and city layout to Ajaccio’s Napoleon story. If you prefer wandering, it’s easy to appreciate without a tour.

Photography

Late afternoon and early evening usually give the most flattering light and a calmer feel. Midday sun can be harsh, especially in summer.
Frame the monument with the surrounding city and, when possible, include hints of the waterfront direction for context. A wider shot often works better than a tight crop.
It can be busy in peak season and when cruise passengers arrive. If you want cleaner shots, go earlier in the morning or later in the day.

Accessibility & Facilities

Generally yes, as it’s an open public space, but surfaces can be uneven in places like many city squares. Temporary barriers may appear during works.
Dedicated public toilets may be limited, so plan to use facilities in a café or nearby venue. Buying a drink is often the easiest solution.
Shade can be limited depending on where you sit and the time of day. In summer, bring water and consider timing your visit for cooler hours.

Food & Breaks Nearby

Yes, you’ll find plenty of options within a few minutes’ walk. It’s a convenient place to plan a coffee stop between sights.
It can be, especially if you’re transitioning into an evening waterfront walk. Just note that drink selections vary by venue.
Yes, central Ajaccio has bakeries and casual spots within easy walking distance. It’s a good area for a simple lunch without detouring.

Safety & Timing

Central Ajaccio is generally lively in the evening, especially in tourist season. Use normal city awareness, particularly around busy streets.
Mornings tend to be quieter, while late afternoon is pleasant for strolling and people-watching. Midday can feel hotter and busier in summer.
Yes, as with many central squares, nearby roads can be active. Watch for scooters and crossings, especially if traveling with kids.

Nearby Attractions to the Place de Gaulle

  • Maison Bonaparte: Napoleon's birthplace museum, a must for understanding Ajaccio's imperial identity.
  • Palais Fesch – Musée des Beaux-Arts: A major art museum in the center, ideal for a cultural break from the sun.
  • Ajaccio Cathedral (Cathédrale Santa Maria Assunta): A historic church in the old town, easy to combine with a walking loop.
  • Ajaccio Old Town streets: Compact lanes for shopping, gelato stops, and a more local feel just beyond the waterfront.
  • Port and waterfront promenade: Great for sea views, boat-trip departures, and an easy stroll at golden hour.

The Place de Gaulle appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ajaccio!

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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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

24 Hours.

Price:

Free.

Address: Place du Général de Gaulle, 20000 Ajaccio, France
Ajaccio: 0 km

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