Flight status
  • Log in
  • Register
Customer Service

Tourism in Bonifacio

At the southernmost tip of Corsica, facing Sardinia, the city of Bonifacio, a year-round destination, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. The houses, suspended over the void, seem to defy gravity. The old town, protected by centuries-old fortifications, is an invitation to explore with its narrow streets and artisan shops. But Bonifacio is not limited to its historic center; many visitors flock to the port to board boats headed to the Lavezzi Islands, the beaches, and the treasures of the coastline. Discover with this online tourism guide all the treasures and a selection of activities to visit and experience Bonifacio in a different way.

From the Lower Town to the Upper Town

The lower town is the first sight that greets visitors arriving by land. Sheltered at the bottom of a narrow and steep inlet, the marina has an unmistakable charm with its quays lined with sailboats, yachts, and pleasure boats, its palm trees, and its restaurants with shaded terraces.

The climb up Rastello will allow you to admire the impressive gates and walls that once protected Bonifacio from invasions. Though it is a physical climb, it can be avoided by taking the little tourist train, which offers a guided tour of both the lower and upper towns. A stop at the Saint-Roch chapel will offer you a breathtaking view of the towering white limestone cliffs, with the neighboring Sardinian coast visible on the horizon.

A walking tour through the winding alleys and picturesque squares of the citadel invites you to take your time and explore. Looking up, you will see flying buttresses and arcades equipped with slate gutters. These once connected certain houses to the Sainte Marie Majeure church and served as aqueducts, forming an ingenious rainwater collection system to fill a cistern.

Do you wish to get closer to sea level? Take the 187 steps of the King of Aragon’s Stairway, carved directly into the rock, for a walk just a few meters above the Mediterranean waves. You will be captivated by the dizzying and picturesque character of this remarkable structure, which once provided a secret escape route for residents during a siege.

In summer, you may prefer to take a walking tour at the end of the day or early in the evening when temperatures are more comfortable. You can then admire the sunset from the Upper Town and enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Must-See Tourist Sites in Bonifacio

The medieval citadel, a timeless place with narrow streets and breathtaking views. From the Genoa Gate to the Bastion of the Standard and the market square, enjoy the spectacular scenery. Recognized as a City of Art and History since 2019, Bonifacio is a unique place in Corsica.

The Bastion of the Standard, a major tourist attraction in Bonifacio, now houses a museum space that invites visitors to escape into history. You will travel through the centuries as you explore the various underground rooms with their massive stone vaults. The visit continues outside along the Landscape Garden trail. In about twenty minutes, you will pass through ten successive viewpoints that are both spectacular and educational, immersing you in Bonifacio’s past.

On the Bosco plateau, on a promontory, Bonifacio’s marine cemetery (Campu Santu) is known as one of the most beautiful in the entire Mediterranean. The majestic tombs adorned with statues, reflecting the prosperity of Bonifacio’s great families, line the peaceful pathways. Please remember that this is a place of reflection for families and loved ones, and you should be respectful of the site's serenity.

Bonifacio's Beaches and Islands

If Bonifacio is a jewel, the sea provides its most beautiful setting. Swimming enthusiasts will find some of Corsica's most stunning beaches between Bonifacio and Porto-Vecchio. Just a few hundred meters away, the secret beach of L'Arinella and the Catena cove are accessible by boat within minutes. You will also be charmed by Cala Longa beach or captivated by the postcard-perfect scenery of Rondinara beach.

You can also embark from the marina on a sea excursion. Depending on the chosen cruise, the boat will either tour Bonifacio or take you to the Lavezzi Islands. Situated between Corsica and Sardinia, the archipelago is classified as a nature reserve.

Scuba diving enthusiasts can also explore beautiful underwater landscapes with remarkably clear waters. The Lavezzi Islands are among the most renowned diving spots on the island, but your guide can also take you to other lesser-known yet equally spectacular sites.

Outdoor Activities and Tourist Adventures

The preserved natural environment offers a fantastic playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Beginner and seasoned golfers alike can enjoy their favorite sport at the Sperone Golf Course. The award-winning 18-hole course offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Corsican landscape. Between swings, you will surely find yourself in awe of the breathtaking scenery.

Your vacation in Bonifacio can also be an opportunity to experience new adventures in harmony with nature: hiking, horseback riding, cycling, tree climbing, rock climbing, canyoning... For example, you can take the Lavezzu Island trail, which winds through a magnificent landscape of granite formations and idyllic coves.

Do you have a car? The hinterland is an invitation to explore. Many villages offer you a glimpse into the authentic daily life of Corsica.

Prepare Your Vacation in Bonifacio

Do you want to plan your stay? You can contact Bonifacio’s Tourist Office to get activity ideas, must-see attractions, and information on local restaurants, campsites, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and nearby hotels.

Are you planning to travel to Bonifacio? Flying is the ideal way to reach Corsica, whether you live in mainland France or elsewhere in Europe. Figari Sud-Corse Airport is about twenty kilometers away by road. Air Corsica offers a combined flight and car rental package at the best prices, allowing you to enjoy your holiday at your own pace and in complete freedom. We also provide a selection of partner hotels to help you find accommodation. You can choose between a hotel with a view in the heart of Bonifacio, a countryside retreat, or lodging in one of the nearby towns.

Looking for activity ideas? Our partnership with Ceetiz, a French tourism activity booking platform, allows us to offer you the best deals at preferential rates for your chosen activities, which you can book online right now. Buy your tickets or passes online and enjoy many on-site benefits, such as priority access to lines.

Click here to see all available activities

Contact the Tourist Office

Here is the useful information to contact the Tourist Office and plan your stay in Corsica in the best conditions:

Two additional information points are available on-site.

Tourist Information Office of the Bastion of the Standard:

  • Location: Genoa Gate

  • Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Tourist Information Office of the Marina:

Discover Nearby Destinations: