Everything looks perfectly staged as a film set on the island of Corsica, especially when jet-setters flock here in high season. Tenders will bring you to the shores of this island, owned by France, and cut through the Mediterranean past caves and towering cliffs to a narrow harbor at the bottom of medieval fortifications.
Life at Port
See It for Yourself
our experts review
Bonifacio
What We Love
Corsican Heritage: Corsica is a highly desirable morsel of land torn between bigger forces for millennia. The people have developed a strong insular identity that encompasses music, food, and historic emblems. Important footnote: Napoleon Bonaparte was born here.
King Aragon Steps: All of the walking paths around Bonifacio are fascinating (and tough on the joints), but take this rough-hewn, 187-step staircase cut into the cliff for the ultimate experience. The views are great at the top and bottom.
Best Known For
The Citadel: Up, up, and up you go along the side of the battlements to a beautifully preserved and highly impressive medieval citadel, which is actually the site of the village. From the stone fortifications, you'll get an incredible panoramic overlook.
Sea Caves: The most popular excursion takes you out in a boat to explore the sea caves and grottos that pocket the limestone cliffs.
Who It's Good For
Affluent Travelers: Bonifacio’s beauty is free, but everything else carries a high price (a cup of coffee here costs 5 euro). As for the yachts, their prices know no limit — and ditto for the jet-setters who party on board.
Snappers: If you fancy yourself a photographer, you’ll be in absolute bliss here. The place has so many interesting aspects, from the sea caves to the medieval wall to the charming restaurants that seat only a dozen people.
Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
Expats Are Not Welcome: Corsicans are friendly to tourists, but they have ferocious aversion to becoming a British/American vacation resort. It’s almost impossible for non-Corsicans to buy property.
Prices Are Exorbitant: Did we mention the 5 euro cup of coffee? As long as you’re just stopping for a few hours, price-gouging will be your only concern.