10 good reasons to go to Bastia
Bastia is a very touristic city, partly due to its rich heritage but also, and especially, because of its geographical location and infrastructure. Indeed, it is the mandatory passage from the mainland. During your stay in Corsica, it is advisable to spend a few days in Bastia before renting a car to visit the rest of the north of the island of beauty with cities such as Calvi or Cap Corse.
1- Place Saint Nicolas
Seeing the beauty of this square, it is hard to believe that until the 19th century it was just a vast wasteland. You can admire the statue of Napoleon, the bandstand, and finally the war memorial built in tribute to the victims of the First World War, which uniquely represents a scene from the war of independence.
2- The Old Port and its Lighthouse
The geographical location of the old port offers it protection against Mediterranean weather conditions. Even though it is still used by ships, the old port is mainly preserved for its tourist appeal and for what it represents for the city of Bastia.
3- The Romieu Gardens
If you enjoy tranquility and calm, take a walk in the Romieu garden. Located right next to the old port, it is a true haven of peace where laurels, palm trees, and succulents coexist. You can also see some of the most beautiful facades of the city.
4- A Colorful Architecture
The city of Bastia is remarkable for its colors. Everything in this city inspires the joy of living. The facades of the houses are red, blue, yellow. This effect is accentuated by the radiant sun, which is why it is advisable to favor the warm seasons for your stay.
5- A Landscape Between Sea and Mountain
Between sea and mountain, your heart wavers. Bastia is one of those destinations that does not ask you to choose. The multiplicity of its landscapes will offer you breathtaking views. Don’t forget your camera!
6- The Citadel of Bastia
The citadel, founded in 1381, houses the governors’ palace and the Church of Sainte Marie. It was founded to protect the city from attacks coming from the sea. This immense building offers a breathtaking view. At night, the city lights make it even more beautiful.
7- The Village of Furiani
A few minutes south of the city of Bastia, discover the village of Furiani and its breathtaking view of the Chiurlinu pond. Its tall and old colorful houses were long protected by the ancient fortress, of which only a restored tower remains today. This village is particularly renowned for the beauty of its chapels and the Church of Saint John the Baptist.
8- The City of Calvi
Located at the northwestern tip of Corsica, it is the second tourist hub of Corsica after Porto-Vecchio. It is indeed a very pleasant city with its bay and port. You can visit Notre Dame de la Serra, stroll around Place de la Porteuse d’Eau, or sunbathe on Plage de la Pinède.
9- The City of Cap Corse
An hour’s drive from Bastia, go discover the city of Cap Corse. Treat yourself to the pleasure of admiring breathtaking views. If you are not afraid of heights, it is a must-see. It is called “the Island within the Island” simply because you feel cut off from the world. Like the rest of Corsica, Cap Corse is a city rich in history that will amaze you.
10- The Agriates
This territory of 15,000 hectares is surrounded by the Tenda massif and the Mediterranean Sea. They are often improperly called a “desert” due to the arid landscapes of the maquis and the granites shaped by the sea air. Nevertheless, they have been cultivated for several centuries. They derive their charm from their wild aspect and are perfect for hiking.
As you can see, if Corsica is called the island of beauty, it is not by chance. Its small size lends itself to travel. Indeed, in a few hours by car, you can see increasingly surprising landscapes.
