Ajaccio is the capital and largest city of Corsica, the Mediterranean island that belongs to France. It sits on a gulf, with mountains rising behind it and the sea in front, and it is the place where Napoleon Bonaparte was born. For many visitors that connection is the first reason to come, but the city has more to offer than its best-known son.
What to see and do
- Napoleon's birthplace and the museums that celebrate his life and family, which give the city much of its character.
- Beaches along the gulf, a natural draw in the warmer months.
- Markets with colourful stalls, a good way to see local produce and everyday city life.
- The old port and town centre, where the streets reflect the city's long history as a harbour.
Making the most of a visit
Ajaccio works well as a base for exploring the island. The city itself is compact enough to walk in a day, and you can combine a morning at the museums with an afternoon by the water. Mountains close behind the town mean there is a clear contrast between the busy harbour and the quieter landscapes just outside the city.
If you are interested in history, go for the Bonaparte connection and the museums. If you want a relaxed seaside stay with some local life, the beaches and markets are the place to focus. Either way, Ajaccio gives you a lively Mediterranean city with a distinctly Corsican identity.