How to Plan Your Ajaccio Sightseeing Tour

If you are planning a trip to Corsica, France, you should make a stop in Ajaccio – the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. There are many things to see in this beautiful port city, from its historical landmarks to its coastline scenery. A great way to explore Ajaccio is by joining the sightseeing tour offered by GetYourGuide. In this article, we will show you how to plan your Ajaccio sightseeing tour, including the highlights of the tour and what you should know before booking.

Experience

The Ajaccio Sightseeing Tour is a 1.5-hour city tour conducted on an open-top bus. You will be able to enjoy a 360-degree view of the Imperial Town, the major statue dedicated to Napoleon, as well as exceptional views of the beaches and the Sanguinaires Islands.

Highlights

The highlights of the tour include:

1. Napoleon Bonaparte Statue and Monuments

The tour will start at Place Foch, where you will see the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte, Ajaccio’s famous figure, and his four brothers. Along the Austerlitz square, you will see the Casone monument dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte. These monuments serve as a reminder of the city’s rich history.

2. Coastal Road of the Sanguinaires

The tour will then take you along the coastal road of the Sanguinaires to enjoy the beautiful view over Ajaccio Bay. The scenery is breathtaking, and you can take some great pictures of the beaches and the Sanguinaires Islands.

3. Pointe de la Parata

The tour will end at the Pointe de la Parata, where you can get great sea views and close-ups of the Sanguinaires Islands. It is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of Corsica’s coastline.

Full Description

The tour starts at Place Foch, where you will board the open-top bus. The guide will take you on a journey along De Gaulle Square to see the statue of Napoleon Bonaparte and his four brothers. You will then travel along the Austerlitz square to see the Casone monument dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte. Next, you will take the coastal road of the Sanguinaires, where you can enjoy the beautiful view over Ajaccio Bay. The tour will end at the Pointe de la Parata, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. On the way back to the city, you will have a chance to see the beaches, monuments, seaside cemetery, and the citadel.

Includes

The tour includes: – A city tour on an open-top bus – A guide providing information about the tour – Food and drink is not included

Booking Your Tour

If you want to book the Ajaccio Sightseeing Tour, you can do so through GetYourGuide’s website. The tour costs €18 per person, and it departs daily at 9:30 AM, 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM, and 3:30 PM. To book the tour, simply click on this link here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Ajaccio Sightseeing Tour is a great way to explore this beautiful port city. You will be able to see its historical landmarks, coastline scenery, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Sanguinaires Islands. Remember to book your tour in advance to secure your spot, and have a great time exploring Ajaccio!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ajaccio

Ajaccio is a city located on the western coast of the island of Corsica, in the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, and famous residents, including French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Here are some frequently asked questions about Ajaccio:

1. What is the best time to visit Ajaccio?

The best time to visit Ajaccio is during the summer months, from June to September. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions such as the beautiful beaches and scenic natural parks. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

2. What are some must-see landmarks in Ajaccio?

Ajaccio is home to numerous historical landmarks and monuments, many of which are dedicated to the city’s most famous resident, Napoleon Bonaparte. Some must-see landmarks in Ajaccio include: – Napoleon Bonaparte’s birthplace: This small house on the Rue Saint-Charles is where Napoleon was born on August 15, 1769. Today, it is a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. – Place Foch: This tree-lined square in the heart of Ajaccio is home to the impressive City Hall building, as well as several other historic buildings. – Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption: This imposing cathedral is one of Ajaccio’s most recognizable landmarks, with its distinctive pink and grey marble facade. – Musée Fesch: This museum houses an impressive collection of Italian Renaissance art, as well as works by local Corsican artists.

3. What are some outdoor activities to do in Ajaccio?

Ajaccio is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and offers numerous outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Some popular outdoor activities in Ajaccio include: – Beaches: Ajaccio is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Plage d’Argent and Plage de Capo di Feno. – Hiking: There are several scenic hiking trails in and around Ajaccio, such as the GR20 trail and the Mare e Monti trail. – Watersports: Visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters surrounding Ajaccio.

4. What traditional Corsican dishes should I try in Ajaccio?

Corsican cuisine is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, many of which feature locally-sourced ingredients. Some traditional Corsican dishes to try in Ajaccio include: – Pulenta: This hearty cornmeal porridge is a staple in Corsican cuisine and is often served alongside meat or vegetables. – Corsican charcuterie: Corsican cured meats, such as lonzu (pork loin), coppa (pork shoulder), and prisuttu (cured ham), are renowned for their rich flavors. – Fiadone: This sweet dessert is made from brocciu cheese, eggs, and sugar and is often flavored with lemon or orange zest.

5. How can I get around Ajaccio?

Ajaccio is a relatively small city, so it is easy to explore on foot. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, there are several options available, including buses and taxis. Additionally, visitors can rent cars, scooters, or bicycles to explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace.

6. What are some nearby attractions to visit from Ajaccio?

Ajaccio is located in a scenic area of Corsica and offers easy access to several nearby attractions. Some nearby attractions to visit from Ajaccio include: – Les Calanques de Piana: These stunning red rock formations are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are located just a short drive from Ajaccio. – Filitosa: This ancient prehistoric site features several impressive menhirs (standing stones) and is located about an hour’s drive from Ajaccio. – Reserve Naturelle de Scandola: This beautiful nature reserve is home to several unique plant and animal species and can be explored via boat tours departing from nearby ports.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Ajaccio

Welcome to Ajaccio, the picturesque capital of Corsica where Napoleon Bonaparte was born. This vibrant Mediterranean city is adorned with palm trees, grand squares, sandy beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. Ajaccio is a popular destination for tourists, and rightly so, as there are countless things to do and see in this charming town. Here is a step-by-step guide for you to get the most out of your trip to Ajaccio.

1. Visit the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte

Ajaccio is the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, one of the greatest military leaders in history. Take a visit to his birthplace, the Maison Bonaparte, which is now a museum. Here, you can learn about the life and times of Napoleon, his achievements, and his family history. The museum houses Napoleonic manuscripts, weapons, and personal belongings of the Bonaparte family. The house is open every day except Tuesdays and public holidays, from 9 am to 5 pm.

2. Explore the Citadelle

The Citadelle is a must-visit destination for history lovers. This fortress was built in the 16th century to protect the city from foreign invaders. Today, the Citadelle offers stunning panoramic views of the marina and the Gulf of Ajaccio. The ramparts have been transformed into gardens with lush Mediterranean vegetation.

3. Go to the beach

Ajaccio boasts several stunning beaches with warm, crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming. The Plage St. Francois is the largest and most popular beach in Ajaccio. This sandy beach offers a range of activities, such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing. The beach is easily accessible from the city center by bus, car, or bike. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby if you want to grab a bite to eat or have a drink.

4. Visit the Fesch Museum

If you are an art lover, then the Fesch Museum is a must-visit destination. It is one of the biggest museums of Italian art in France and is named after Cardinal Fesch, who donated his impressive collection of art and artifacts to the city. The museum houses paintings, sculptures, and other works of art from across Europe, including works by Titian, Botticelli, and Bellini.

5. Take a stroll down the Cours Napoleon

The Cours Napoleon is the main thoroughfare in Ajaccio and is named after Napoleon Bonaparte. The street is lined with palm trees, cafes, and shops selling local produce, such as cheese, wine, and olive oil. The Cours Napoleon is a great place to take a leisurely stroll or to sit and people-watch.

6. Savor the local cuisine

Corsican cuisine is a tantalizing blend of French and Italian flavors, with a unique twist. Some of the must-try dishes include the brocciu cheese, fiadone dessert, and the figatellu sausage. There are plenty of restaurants in Ajaccio where you can sample traditional Corsican cuisine.

7. Sail to the Iles Sanguinaires

The Iles Sanguinaires is a small archipelago of four islands located off the coast of Ajaccio. This natural preserve is home to a range of flora and fauna, including some rare species of seabirds. There are several boat tours that depart from the marina in Ajaccio, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline and the islands.

8. Climbing Monte Gozzi

The Monte Gozzi is a mountain located near Ajaccio that offers spectacular hiking trails with stunning views of the coast. The mountain is 716 meters high and takes about 3 hours to climb. The trail is challenging, but the view from the summit is worth the effort. It is recommended to go in the morning to avoid the heat and bring plenty of water.

9. Visit the A Cupulatta Tortoise Park

If you are traveling with kids, the A Cupulatta Tortoise Park is a great destination for a day trip. It is the biggest park in Europe dedicated to tortoises and is home to nearly 300 species of tortoises and turtles from around the world. The park is open from 9 am to 6 pm every day, and there is a restaurant and a souvenir shop onsite.

Book Your Tour Now

Ajaccio is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a history lover, art enthusiast, or a beach enthusiast, there are countless things to do and see in this charming town. We hope this step-by-step guide has helped you make the most of your trip to Ajaccio, and you have a wonderful time exploring this Mediterranean jewel.