Weekend in Calvi: activities, outings, accommodations
Surrounded by powerful ramparts and backed by majestic mountains, the old town of Calvi towers over the Mediterranean Sea. Less than an hour from Nice and Marseille, 1h15 from Lyon, and 1h40 from Paris, Calvi is an ideal destination for a two- or three-day getaway. Prefer a holiday close to nature or the sea? Looking for peace and relaxation or a chance to explore? Interested in a cultural or sporty trip? A weekend in Calvi offers just the break you need—whether to recharge or to experience something memorable.
Strolling Through the Streets of Calvi’s Citadel
Firmly anchored on a rocky promontory, Calvi’s citadel protected the Balagne region from pirate invasions for centuries. Its visit holds many surprises.
The Pro-Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist, rebuilt in 1570, surprises with its round dome and austere, fortress-like façade. Inside, you’ll discover a bright white space richly decorated with art.
You may also come across a plaque claiming Calvi as the birthplace of Christopher Columbus, discoverer of the Americas. While the historical accuracy is debated, the legend charms visitors, imagining that it was from this very shore that the explorer first dreamed of distant horizons.
Follow the old ramparts path for a 360-degree view of the Mediterranean, the inland landscape, and Corsica’s highest mountains.
Exploring Calvi’s Lower Town
Bustling with shops, the Lower Town surrounds Calvi’s marina, where sailing boats, yachts, and fishing vessels dock. The colorful façades of local homes open onto artisan studios, shops, cafés, and restaurants. The Baroque Church of Sainte-Marie stands out with its pink and beige painted façade—a photo stop is a must!
Your visit to the Lower Town is also the perfect time to explore Corsican cuisine. Sample cheeses, cured meats, and regional specialties. Wine merchants will be happy to introduce you to the unique flavors of Corsican wines (enjoyed in moderation). At lunch or dinner, settle in at a restaurant terrace to taste seafood, fish, shellfish, or traditional meat and vegetable recipes.
A Weekend on Balagne’s Beaches
From spring through early autumn, a weekend in Calvi also means enjoying a stunning coastline and beautiful beaches.
La Pinède Beach, near the city center, offers breathtaking views of the citadel. You can relax on private beach loungers or spread your towel on the public side. Aregno Beach in Algajola, easily accessible by road or train, is a favorite for surfers.
You’ll have plenty of water sports to choose from: scuba diving, stand-up paddleboarding, jet-skiing, snorkeling… From the marina, many boat trips are available. You can even rent a boat or sailboat with a skipper and set off to sea—head south toward the Scandola Nature Reserve, known for its rich marine life.
On the Trails of Balagne
Rented a car for your weekend in Calvi? Get ready to discover Balagne’s hidden treasures!
Many picturesque villages await by the sea or inland. To the north, stop in Lumio, with its charming pedestrian alleys, baroque church, and Romanesque chapel—set amid palm trees and olive groves. You’ll also pass through Pigna, where stone houses with blue shutters overlook Algajola Bay. Further north, near L’Île-Rousse, Sant'Antonino stands like an eagle’s nest, captivating visitors with its stark architecture and stone homes. Cobblestone streets spiral around a rocky peak, revealing vaulted galleries, an old press, a small chapel, and ruined donjon.
The abandoned village of Occi is a powerful reminder of Corsica’s rural exodus during the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, its dramatic views reward the 20- to 30-minute hike it takes to get there.
An Unforgettable Stay Between Mountains and Nature
Look up from Calvi and admire the towering Corsican mountains. Among them rises Monte Cinto, the highest peak on the island at 2,706 meters. You won’t have time to hike the full GR20 trail over a weekend, but there are plenty of hiking paths in Balagne for all levels. About 20 km from Calvi in Calenzana, the Bonifato Forest offers a cool, shaded escape in summer, complete with natural swimming holes along the Figarella River.
There are countless outdoor activities to enjoy in Balagne. Rent a bike or mountain bike, try your hand at climbing or canyoning, take a paragliding flight, or go horseback riding on the regional trails.
Plan Your Weekend in Calvi
The most popular way to reach Calvi from mainland France or other parts of Europe is by plane. In under an hour from Nice or Marseille, and about 1h30 from Paris, you’ll land in Balagne—giving you plenty of time to make the most of your short stay.
Booking your flight early often means a better deal. Just enter your travel dates and browse our best offers!
Want to explore Balagne during your stay? Air Corsica, in partnership with Hertz, offers Drive+, a special package combining car rental and airfare at discounted rates with unlimited mileage. Picking up your car rental at Calvi Sainte-Catherine Airport lets you hit the road immediately upon landing. You can reserve your vehicle when booking your flights.
Whether you’re looking for a house or studio rental, a B&B, or a hotel for one or two nights, Air Corsica offers a selection of top-rated accommodations in Calvi—from hotels near the airport to central city stays or rural retreats. Each property has a detailed profile, including info on pools, amenities, maps, guest reviews, and more.
Want to make the most of your weekend in Calvi? Check out our curated list of activities available for online booking in Corsica through our partner Ceetiz. Flight, car rental, hotel, and experiences—everything you need for a perfect trip, whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or friends!