Corsica is a large island in the Mediterranean Sea which is of French heritage and lies off the south coast of
France. Driving in Corsica can be a picturesque but sometimes a challenging experience due to its diverse terrain. Here's some information about driving in Corsica, the proximity of airports to towns, road conditions, and the best type of car to use:
Driving in Corsica:
Roads: Corsica has a range of road types, from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding mountain roads. The mountainous terrain means you'll often encounter steep, winding roads with hairpin turns, especially when traveling inland. These roads can be narrow and require cautious driving.
Driving in Corsica can be a picturesque but sometimes challenging experience due to its diverse terrain. Here's some information about driving in Corsica, the proximity of airports to towns, road conditions, and the best type of car to use:
Driving in Corsica:
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Roads: Corsica has a range of road types, from well-maintained highways to narrow, winding mountain roads. The mountainous terrain means you'll often encounter steep, winding roads with hairpin turns, especially when traveling inland. These roads can be narrow and require cautious driving.
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Scenic Drives: Corsica is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including dramatic coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush interior forests. There are many scenic drives to enjoy, such as the Calanques de Piana and the drive through the Bavella Pass.
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Traffic: In the peak summer season, especially on the coastal routes and near popular tourist destinations, you may encounter heavy traffic and crowded parking areas. Plan your trips accordingly to avoid peak travel times.
Airport Proximity to Towns:
Corsica has several airports, with the two most commonly used being Ajaccio-Napoléon Bonaparte Airport (AJA) and Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA). The proximity of these airports to towns can vary:
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Ajaccio-Napoléon Bonaparte Airport (AJA): This airport is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) east of the town of Ajaccio, which is the capital of Corsica. It's a relatively short drive to reach the town center.
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Bastia-Poretta Airport (BIA): Bastia-Poretta Airport is approximately 17 kilometers (about 11 miles) south of the town of Bastia, which is another major Corsican city.
Both airports are well-connected to their respective towns by road, making it convenient for travelers to access their accommodations.
Best Type of Car:
The best type of car to use in Corsica depends on your travel plans:
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Compact Car: A compact car is suitable for exploring towns and cities, and it's easier to navigate narrow streets and find parking.
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SUV: If you plan to venture into the mountainous interior or explore off-the-beaten-path areas, an SUV can provide better traction and comfort on challenging roads.
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Convertible: Corsica's coastal drives are beautiful, and a convertible can enhance your scenic experience, especially during the summer months.
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Mini Van: If you're traveling with a larger group or carrying a lot of luggage, consider renting a minivan for added space and comfort.
It's essential to choose a vehicle that suits your needs and comfort level, especially if you plan to explore both coastal areas and the interior mountain regions. Be prepared for narrow roads and mountain driving, and exercise caution, especially when encountering hairpin turns and steep gradients.
Corsica's diverse landscapes and charming towns make it an excellent destination for a road trip. Whether you're exploring historic cities, relaxing on beautiful beaches, or hiking in the mountains, driving allows you to discover the island's many treasures at your own pace. Corsica is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including dramatic coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush interior forests. There are many scenic drives to enjoy, such as the Calanques de Piana and the drive through the Bavella Pass.
If you are arriving from France it is also possible to get a ferry from places such as
Nice,
Toulon and
Marseille, or alternatively come from
Genoa, in Italy. The high speed boat from
Nice to Calvi is the quickest, most scenic and most convenient of these options as it drops you off right in the centre of town where you can collect your rental vehicle.