Ajaccio – France Cruise Tour Information

AJACCIO, CORSICA, FRANCE

Located just south of France on the island of Corsica, Ajaccio is rich in history and astonishing views, all set in the sun-drenched Mediterranean climate. Napoleon is Corsica’s most recognizable historical personality — when you’re strolling through town, make sure to visit the Maison Bonaparte Napoleon’s family home and a historical museum. Stop in the beautiful Baroque-style Notre Dame Cathedral, where Napoleon was baptized. Here, you’ll also find important artwork by Tintoretto and Delacroix. Cruise to Corsica and hop on Le Petit Train, or “the little train,” for a tour of town. For a taste of nature, head out to the Calanques de Piana, a range of dramatic red-rock cliffs.

THINGS TO DO IN AJACCIO

SEE NAPOLEON’S ROOTS
Discover the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, the Napoleon Museum, built on the site of home where he was born. You’ll come away with insight into the childhood of one of the most pivotal political figures of the 19th century.

OLD-TOWN CHARM
Head to Place Foch to enjoy the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of the old town. Take in the laid-back approach to life at one of the picturesque cafes as you people watch and savor one of the local wines from Ajaccio.

NATURALLY ADVENTUROUS
Looking for outdoor exploration? Check out the Calanques de Piana, a series of red-rock cliffs overlooking the pristine ocean. Cruise to Corsica and drive out to Scandola Nature reserve for views of stunning rock formations, caves and wildlife, including eagles.

LOCAL CUISINE
Corsica is an epicurean’s dream — a unique microcosm that offers the best ingredients from both land and sea. Try the signature civet de sanglier, a hearty stew made with wild boar. Don’t miss langostine with sun-ripened vegetables, and enjoy flavorful cheese from the mountains along with the specialty cured meats. Wash it all down with a glass of Corsican red wine.

SHOPPING
Corsica is home to one of the largest coral shops in the world, La Maison du Corail, which offers a splendid selection of jewelry. The island also produces local honey as well as olive oil and jams; pick some up at the small shops in the old town. Artisan workshops offer handcrafted items in leather and glass. You can also find boutique shops offering designer brands, and the rope bags typical of Corsica.

Soak up the splendour of Ajaccio, the capital of the French island of Corsica. This charming harbour city in the Mediterranean Sea is the birthplace of Napoleon.
Experience an array of historical sites, natural attractions, and lively cafes, restaurants and shops. This Mediterranean Cruises destination offers a glamorous waterfront promenade, old town streets, wooded hills, and a 16th-century citadel.

Cruises excursions offer plenty of exciting things to see including:

Napoleon’s Bonaparte Memorabilia
The Sanguinary Islands
Tortoise and Turtle Park

Make the most of Ajaccio with a Cruise excursion to explore the old town and its many wonders. Enjoy a walk to see neoclassical and baroque architecture including the Ajaccio Cathedral. Winding streets boast impressive statues commemorating Napoleon Bonaparte, the 18th-century French Emperor. Visit the Maison Bonaparte, Napoleon’s beautifully preserved birthplace or the iconic Fesch Museum housing collections by Tiziano, Veronese and Botticelli. Take a break in Austerlitz Square, where Napoleon played as a child or wander Place Foch’s palm-fringed promenade and admire the fountain, lamps, and marble lions.

Embark on a mini-adventure to discover the Sanguinaires Archipelago, a biodiverse haven for birds and dolphins. This natural ecosystem is also known as ‘The Blood Islands’ due to the reddish tinge of the porphyry cliffs at sunset. This Cruise excursion includes the scenic Pointe de la Parata and its 16th-century Genoese defence tower. Next, join a boat tour of the archipelago, stopping at Mezu Mare Island with its Alphonse Daudet lighthouse.

If you’re keen on nature and animals, book a Cruise excursion to A Cupulatta, the tortoise park and beach. This family-friendly location offers 2.5 hectares of pristine parkland that’s home to 170 tortoise and turtle species. Seeing these majestic animals in their natural habitat is a truly unique experience, especially if you happen to spot baby tortoises and turtles. Before returning to the ship, explore the coastal resort of Porticci with its buzzing shops, bars and restaurants.