North Corsica is an area of outstanding beauty, proud of its history, traditions, and multi-faceted heritage, from the small perched villages of Cap Corse to the Caribbean beaches of the Balagne. It is the ideal destination to savour authentic moments and enjoy the view during your holiday.
Discover our selection of must-see sites in Northern Corsica.
Nestled in the northwest of Corsica, the "capital" of Balagne is one of the island's leading seaside destinations, with a population that multiplies by ten in summer. Additionally, this former Genoese stronghold is not lacking in attractions, with its long white sandy beach bordered by a pine forest, its majestic citadel (end of the 15th century), and its network of cobbled streets, its marina and its lively terraces. The town is also a dynamic cultural centre, with renowned festivals such as the trendy Calvi on the Rocks (early July) and the Calvi Jazz Festival (June).
Also worth seeing: the Saint-Jean-Baptiste cathedral (13th century) and the baroque Sainte-Marie Majeure church; the Bishops' palace (16th century), the Giubega house (15th century); the panorama over the bay of Calvi from Notre-Dame de la Serra (by car)
Ile Rousse, which owes its name to its characteristic landscape of rocky islands of red porphyry, is a lively town, conjuring a particular idea of the gentle way of life. Petanque has gained its letters of nobility here, supported by a national competition attracting a plethora of celebrities. L'Ile Rousse is the perfect holiday destination, with its long beach washed by a turquoise sea, its Florentine-inspired houses, small shady squares and its large covered market selling local specialities.
Don't miss: the Pietra lighthouse and its beautiful panoramas, the botanical circuit of the Saleccia park; the "trinichellu" (the trembling one), a train that runs along the coast to Calvi; the Pascal Paoli square
Saint-Florent
A pretty marina where the most beautiful yachts moor every summer, with divine beaches and a chic bohemian atmosphere: Saint-Florent is nicknamed the little Corsican Saint-Tropez. This ancient trading and fishing town, nestled at the end of a bay framed by the mountains of Cape Corsica and the Nebbio, seduces with its mixture of simple authenticity and refinement.
Don't miss: the Genoese citadel (15th century); the Santa Maria Assunta cathedral (12th century); the Roya beach.
Bastia
Built on the eastern slope of the Serra di Pignu, a mountain rising to 960 metres, Bastia is a charming city with the look of a Genoese town, characterised by beautiful coloured facades, a labyrinth of narrow streets and lively squares. In the heart of Terra Nova, the historic district of Bastia, the Citadel, is a pedestrian zone set with historical monuments, such as the Governors' Palace, the residence of the Genoese governors from the 15th to the 17th century. As a bonus: superb views over the Mediterranean and the Old Port. Head for Place Saint-Nicolas for a drink, a stroll, and shopping in the adjacent streets (Boulevard Paoli and Rue César Campinchi).
To see: the Saint-Jean Baptiste church and the Sainte-Marie cathedral (17th century); the Place du Marché; the rue Napoléon; the Romieu garden
Known as the "island within an island", Cap Corse is a wild paradise with contrasting landscapes of secret coves, cliffs, nature reserves, beaches and mountains. Travellers generally choose to discover this territory during a road trip, following the road that leads from Bastia to Saint-Florent. There are many stops in small villages of character such as Nonza, one of the most beautiful in Corsica, famous for its black beach; Sisco and its century-old houses clinging to the mountain; Pino and its Scalo navy; Patrimonio and its famous vineyards. Hiking enthusiasts can take the Chemin des Douaniers, a twenty-kilometre route offering breathtaking views of the coastline and the Finocchiarola islands.
Unusual: the beach of Barchaggio, where some cows sometimes come to rest
Perched 400 metres above sea level on a rocky pier in the heart of Corsica, Corte is the former historical capital of the Isle of Beauty, ruled from 1755 to 1769 by Pascal Paoli, the "father of the Corsican homeland". The citadel, which stands out against majestic mountains, gives a spectacular effect. At nightfall, the various lighting systems in the city make the spectacle even more grandiose.
Don't miss: the Gaffori square; the belvedere overlooking the confluence of the three rivers (Restonica, Tavignanu and Orta); the church of the Annunciation (15th century); the castle of Vincentello d'Istria (15th century)
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