Bastia Itinerary 7 Days: A Journey Through Corsica's Historic Port (2026)

Arrive at Bastia – Poretta Airport (BIA), pick up your rental car, and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant Vieux Port (Old Port), the heart of Bastia. Admire the colorful fishing boats and yachts, and soak up the lively atmosphere at one of the many waterfront cafes. Wander through the charming streets of Terra Vecchia, the old town, with its tall, pastel-colored houses and narrow alleyways. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Corsican restaurant, savoring local specialties like fresh seafood and charcuterie. For dinner, consider trying A Scudella, a highly-rated restaurant known for its authentic Corsican cuisine. It's located in the heart of the old town, offering a cozy and traditional dining experience. Be sure to try their 'civet de sanglier' (wild boar stew) if it's on the menu.

Today, we'll explore Terra Nova, the impressive citadel of Bastia. Take the elevator or walk up the scenic Jardin Romieu to reach the top. The garden itself is a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the views. Once in the citadel, wander through its historic streets and admire the panoramic views of the city, the port, and the sea. Visit the Musée de Bastia, housed in the former Palais des Gouverneurs, to learn about the history and culture of the city and the island. Don't miss the magnificent Cathédrale Sainte-Marie and the Oratoire de la Confrérie de Sainte-Croix with its stunning baroque interior. For lunch, you can find several charming cafes and restaurants within the citadel walls. In the afternoon, you can either relax at your hotel or explore more of the city at your own pace. Perhaps you'd like to do some shopping for local crafts and souvenirs on the Rue Napoléon.

Embark on a full-day road trip to Cap Corse, a rugged and beautiful peninsula just north of Bastia. This scenic drive will take you through charming fishing villages, past ancient Genoese towers, and along a dramatic coastline with stunning views. Start by driving up the east coast, stopping in the picturesque village of Erbalunga. Continue to Macinaggio, where you can take a short walk on the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Officers' Path). From Macinaggio, drive across the peninsula to the west coast and head south. Stop in the unique village of Nonza, perched on a cliff with a black pebble beach below. Enjoy the breathtaking views and the charming atmosphere of this historic village. Continue your drive back to Bastia, stopping at the Col de Teghime for a final panoramic view of both the east and west coasts.

Today, we'll head west to the charming resort town of Saint-Florent. This former Genoese port is now a popular destination for its beautiful harbor, lively atmosphere, and 15th-century citadel. Stroll along the waterfront, browse the chic boutiques, and enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk cafe. You can also visit the impressive Cathédrale du Nebbio, a beautiful example of Pisan Romanesque architecture. In the afternoon, we'll explore the nearby Patrimonio wine region, one of the most famous in Corsica. This region is known for its excellent red and rosé wines, made primarily from the Niellucciu grape. Visit a local winery for a wine tasting and learn about the winemaking process. Enjoy the beautiful scenery of rolling hills covered in vineyards. In the evening, you can either have dinner in Saint-Florent or head back to Bastia.

Get ready for a day of sun, sand, and sea as we explore the stunning Agriates Desert. This protected area is a wild and beautiful landscape of maquis scrubland and pristine beaches. The best way to access the beaches is by boat from Saint-Florent. Take a shuttle boat to either Lotu Beach or Saleccia Beach, both of which are known for their turquoise waters and white sand. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing on these idyllic beaches. You can also take a walk along the coastal path that connects the two beaches. Pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water, as there are limited facilities in the desert. In the late afternoon, take the boat back to Saint-Florent and then drive back to Bastia.

After several days of exploring, it's time for a more relaxed day in Bastia. You can spend the morning at your leisure, perhaps revisiting some of your favorite spots in the city. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy on the Rue Napoléon and the Boulevard Paoli, the main shopping streets of Bastia. Here you'll find a mix of local boutiques, high-end shops, and souvenir stores. Look for local products like Corsican honey, cheese, and charcuterie, as well as handmade crafts and jewelry. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant of your choice. You could try something new or return to a favorite spot from earlier in the week. Reflect on your amazing journey through Bastia and its beautiful surroundings.

Enjoy a final Corsican breakfast and, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll through the city. Then, drive to Bastia – Poretta Airport (BIA), return your rental car, and catch your flight home. We hope you had an unforgettable time exploring the beauty and charm of Bastia and Corsica! As you head to the airport, take a moment to savor the last views of the Corsican landscape. The memories of the stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages will surely stay with you long after you've returned home.