With its beach-studded coastline and rugged mountainous interior, Corsica is a Mediterranean daydream. Set between the French mainland and the Italic Peninsula, the postcard-perfect island combines history, culture and stunning scenery. There are plenty of opportunities to bask on gold-sand beaches, hike in the mountains, stroll around hilltop villages and relax at glamorous seaside resorts.

Things to do

Fringed by golden sand and towering pine trees, Plage de Palombaggia is one of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches. Relax on the sand and take a dip in the crystal-clear water. The beaches around Ajaccio have a lively atmosphere, while hidden gems like Plage de Porticcio are great for escaping the crowds.

Perched atop white limestone cliffs, Bonifacio is a fairy-tale fortress town. In the medieval Citadel, you can get lost in narrow alleys lined with pastel-coloured houses. The lively quayside district is brimming with cafes, bars and brasseries. Boat tours depart from the harbour and take you to the island’s stunning southern beaches.

Sprawling Corsica Regional Nature Park occupies around 40% of the island. Explore family-friendly trails or lace up your boots and tackle challenging long-distance routes like GR 20. Monte Cinto is the highest peak on the island and is on the bucket lists of most adventurous visitors. The full-day hike to the summit rewards you with panoramic views.

While Corsica has been ruled by the French since the 1700s, the island has retained much of its Italian charm. The food reflects the island’s multicultural past, with dishes like “aziminu” rock fish soup, eggplants stuffed with cheese and “pulenda” chestnut flour bread. Wash down your meal with a glass of locally grown Nielluccio wine.

Corsica is dotted with archaeological sites that recall the island’s ancient past. The enormous granite pillars of Filitosa are more than 6,000 years old, while the ancient hillforts of Cucuruzzu and Capula date to the Bronze Age.

Getting around

All Corsica’s towns, villages and resorts are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Napoleon Bonaparte Airport in Ajaccio offers frequent flights to cities across Europe.