Corsica, nicknamedthe “Isle of Beauty“, is a popular destination for thousands of travelers who succumb to its unique charm. It offers breathtaking scenery, combining heavenly beaches, rugged mountains and authentic villages.
However, if you want to enjoy your stay on the island, you need to choose the best airport for your itinerary. The island has four main airports, strategically located to facilitate travel.
These includeAjaccio Napoléon Bonaparte in the southwest, Bastia-Poretta in the northeast, Calvi-Sainte-Catherine in the west and Figari-Sud Corse in the south.
Corsica boasts four main airports, each offering a strategic gateway to the island’s treasures. They provide easy access to natural and cultural wonders, depending on the region you wish to explore.
Located just a few kilometers from Ajaccio city center, Ajaccio Napoléon Bonaparte(AJA) airport is the busiest on the island of Corsica. It’s perfect for visiting Ajaccio, the beaches on the south shore and the surrounding mountains. What’s more, it offers numerous connections with the mainland, making it an essential hub for travelers.
Located near Bastia, Bastia Poretta Airport(BIA) is ideal for exploring Cap Corse, the Saint-Florent region and the picturesque villages of Haute-Corse. Its modern infrastructure and easy access make it an ideal choice for discovering the north of the island. The airport also offers regular flights to destinations such as Paris, Nice, Marseille and London.
Calvi, on the west coast, is the gateway to the Balagne region, known for its idyllic beaches and beautiful sea views. Add to this the picturesque lanes that dot the region’s hilltop villages. The smaller Calvi-Sainte-Catherine(CLY) airport offers a more intimate experience, ideal for those seeking a peaceful setting from the moment they arrive.
Finally, Figari-Sud Corse airport(FSC) is located further south on the island, 10 km from Figari. Given its strategic location, it’s perfectly situated for visiting southern gems such as Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. It is also a strategic starting point for exploring emblematic beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia.
For a successful stay in Corsica, the choice of airport plays a central role in optimizing your travel arrangements. Opting for the airport closest to your places of interest is essential. Here are a few recommendations based on the island’s main regions.
Ajaccio Napoléon Bonaparte and Figari-Sud Corse are the two key airports for discovering Corse-du-Sud. For visitors wishing to explore the west coast and surrounding area of Ajaccio, AJA is the ideal choice. It is close to the regional capital, offering easy access to sites such as the Sanguinaires islands, Napoleon’s house and beautiful beaches.
Ajaccio is also well served by public transport and offers various options for car rental. On the other hand, Figari-Sud Corse airport is the best choice for those planning to stay in the south of the island.
It is ideally located for access to popular destinations such as Porto-Vecchio, with its heavenly beaches such as Palombaggia and Santa Giulia. From FSC, you can also reach Bonifacio, famous for its spectacular cliffs and medieval streets.
To discover the north of the island, Bastia-Poretta is a must if you want to get to some of the jewels in the crown. These include Cap Corse, a wild and authentic region, and Saint-Florent, a charming seaside resort nestled in the heart of the Agriates desert.
Located close to Bastia, this airport combines modernity with proximity to the main northern routes. The villages of Haute-Corse, such as Murato and Nonza, are also within easy reach of Bastia.
Calvi-Sainte-Catherine is the ideal gateway to the Balagne region, rich in picturesque landscapes. This region is home to sandy beaches, intimate coves and hilltop villages such as Sant’Antonino and Pigna, perfect for a complete change of scenery.
Calvi is an ideal base from which to reach L’Île-Rousse, while enjoying the gentle pace of life that characterizes this region. The airport offers direct access to one of the island’s most popular areas.
Organize a trip to Corsica requires careful planning to get the most out of your stay. However, it’s a good idea to put a few simple tips into practice to save time and money while maximizing your comfort.
Corsica is a very popular destination during the high summer season, from June to September. As a result, flight prices can rise rapidly. That’s why we recommend booking your tickets at least three months in advance.
This not only allows you to benefit from low fares, but also to make substantial savings. Failing that, keep an eye out for special offers or promotions offered by the airlines. These are generally available out of season, in autumn or spring.
For travel from the airport, the car is the most practical way to explore the island of Corsica. This option offers maximum flexibility, especially if the tourist wishes to access remote areas such as wild beaches or hilltop villages.
Another user-friendly solution is to hire a cab, although this is often expensive. For a better compromise, some also offer public transport (buses). Very economical, this alternative allows you to reach the major cities, but their timetables can be limited, especially in low season.
Corsica offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and tastes. For total immersion, opt for self-catering cottages or guest houses in the heart of picturesque villages. On the other hand, seaside hotels are ideal for enjoying the beaches, while campsites are ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts.
Alternatively, villa or apartment rentals are an economical option for families or groups. Another interesting accommodation option is youth hostels, which offer affordable rates for travelers. To avoid unpleasant surprises and guarantee total immersion, don’t hesitate to make a reservation.
Choosing the right airport in Corsica is essential for a successful trip. It depends on your destination, the services available and the desired accessibility. What’s more, good planning will enable you to optimize your travels and take full advantage of the island’s wonders. So book now for the airport that best suits your itinerary!
