Ajaccio, Corsica: A French Port Full of Delights
Feb 2, 2025
After a wonderful time in La Spezia and a full day at sea, our Virgin Voyages Barcelona to Civitavecchia cruise made its next stop in Ajaccio, Corsica. This French island in the Mediterranean, best known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, Corsica offered us a unique opportunity to explore its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.
A Sunday in Ajaccio
Our arrival on a quiet Sunday meant many shops and venues were closed, but the locals brought the city to life with a vibrant farmers market just steps from where we disembarked.
After walking around the different vendor stalls, we were hungry so started on our hunt for some food. We happened upon a great patio café (there were plenty to choose from) and enjoyed a delightful breakfast —le petit déjeuner. We drank freshly brewed lattes, croissants with jam, assorted pastries, and a hearty plate of bacon and eggs, all paid for with a handful of euro coins.
Strolling Through History
After breakfast, we strolled through the charming streets of Ajaccio. This town is steeped in history, famously the birthplace of Napoléon Bonaparte in 1769. His childhood home, Maison Bonaparte, has been transformed into a museum showcasing intriguing family artifacts. Nearby, the baroque beauty of the 16th-century Notre-Dame Cathedral, where Napoléon was baptized, boasts stunning paintings by Delacroix and Tintoretto. While we chose to soak up the island's ambiance rather than visiting these sites, they are definitely a must-see for any Napoleon enthusiast.
We walked over towards the water and found the Citadelle d'Ajaccio, a military fort built in 1492. It has undergone continual construction over the years, so there was not much to see here, but we enjoyed the exploration time none-the-less.
Leisure and Shopping
Later, we returned to the town square for some shopping, finding local crafts and souvenirs to remember our visit. We purchased a metal, vintage Corsica sign for the travel wall. We also spotted the famous Statue of Napoleon, a monument dedicated to his memory.
For a leisurely overview of Ajaccio, without the walking, you can opt to hop on “Ajaccio’s little train” - this is an inexpensive local train that takes tourists around the island town. We passed it many times and it's a great way to get a fast and informative guided tour.
Champagne Farewell
Before heading back to the ship, we stopped at another patio café to sip Champagne (When in France, you MUST! 😉) and enjoy light snacks, reflecting on our visit to this charming island.
Looking Forward
Ajaccio was a delightful surprise on our Mediterranean cruise, offering a slower-paced day filled with beauty and culture. It's a destination that calls for a summer return, promising sunnier days perfect for exploring nearby islands and enjoying the bustling patios.
Ready to experience Corsica?
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Booking Link: Virgin Itineraries 2025-2026
Check out all the Virgin Voyages with stops in France: French Voyages
Thank you for reading!
Kristin & Will
