Tourism in Porto-Vecchio
On the eastern coast of the Island of Beauty, in the southwest, this very popular seaside resort welcomes many holidaymakers during the summer season. But limiting tourism in Porto-Vecchio to beaches and water activities would be reductive. We offer you a selection of activities and outings, a true online guide to help you prepare your trip and discover some of the many facets of what is known as the "City of Salt."
The Old Town of Porto-Vecchio
While tourism is at the heart of the local economy today, Porto-Vecchio once owed its prosperity to the salt marshes. The historic town of Porto-Vecchio has sprawled for centuries along a rocky promontory offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. This privileged location, now a delight for tourists, was once a matter of security: a high position helped prevent incursions by Barbary pirates and allowed for better defense in case of attack.
The citadel, built by the Genoese, stands as a testament to this tumultuous past. It now houses the city center of Porto-Vecchio and is a must-see tourist site. A walking tour of the old town, within the walls of the ancient citadel, invites you to wander. The narrow streets, lined with picturesque houses, open onto small squares. Numerous shops and artisan stalls will enrich your stroll, leading you from surprise to discovery. You can also stop for a gourmet or refreshing break in one of the many restaurants and bars.
A superb granite building, the Saint John the Baptist Church surprises with its elegant architecture and its slender bell tower reminiscent of the village of Quenza, located in the Alta Rocca. Inside, you’ll find remarkable works, such as a 16th-century processional Christ and beautiful 20th-century stained-glass windows.
The Most Beautiful Beaches in Corsica
What would tourism in Porto-Vecchio be without the sea? The seaside resort, sheltered in the gulf that bears its name, is located near some of the most beautiful beaches in France.
White sand, umbrella pine forests, red rocks, views of the Cerbicale Islands — Palombaggia Beach is straight out of a postcard. To the south, swimming enthusiasts will head to Santa Giulia Beach, one of the most famous in Corsica. You can also lay your towel on Cala Rossa Beach, bordered by luxury residences and lively with several restaurants and beach bars, or opt for the turquoise waters of Tamaricciu Beach, with its unique identity featuring a dune strip planted with oaks, pines, and junipers. Tramulimacchia Beach hosts a summer leisure base, offering windsurf, catamaran, canoe, paddle, and pedal boat rentals — the perfect place to alternate between swimming, relaxing, and water sports!
Many water activities are available: scuba diving, boat excursions, day sailboat rentals, paddleboarding lessons — you can choose between relaxation and thrills! Numerous boat trips are also organized from the marina.
Porto-Vecchio, Gateway to the Mountains
Facing the sea, Porto-Vecchio is also backed by the Corsican mountains. You can take advantage of your holiday to gain some altitude. A trip into the hinterland will lead you to discover authentic villages and wild landscapes.
Nature lovers will be delighted. Many hiking trails wind through the ridges and valleys, shaded by oak or laricio pine forests. To the north, less than an hour and a half away by road, the Bavella Needles attract hikers of all levels and ages. Other outdoor sports can be enjoyed in the region: climbing, paragliding, horse riding, canyoning...
You can also stroll around the Ospedale Lake. Swimming is prohibited there, but the beauty of the place makes it a highly popular tourist destination. Easily accessible, the Piscia di Gallu waterfall awaits you nearby.
Discovering the History of Corsica
This land blessed by the gods has been inhabited since time immemorial. People have left their marks here, and many archaeological sites bear witness to this distant past. Around Porto-Vecchio, many treasures from these ancient times await you.
The Castellu d’Araghju is a 4,000-year-old fortress with complex architecture that still watches over a vast plain. The Araghju site is accessible after a steep and rocky climb. But the effort is rewarded when you reach this monumental prehistoric fortress, 37 centuries old. The superb Ceccia ruins date back to 1350 BCE. Accessible via a small path, this site also offers breathtaking views.
The Cucuruzzu and Capula sites offer a true journey through time, from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages. The Casteddu of Cucuruzzu is an ancient fortified dwelling from the Bronze Age, and the Casteddu of Capula testifies to the power of Count Bianco, who built this mighty castle in the 10th century.
Prepare Your Holiday in Porto-Vecchio
Planning to spend your holidays by the sea? You can contact the Porto-Vecchio Tourist Office to access an online tourist guide, learn about activities and outings, obtain information and documentation on must-see tourist sites, and discover more about restaurants, guesthouses, campsites, vacation rentals, and nearby hotels.
Air travel is the fastest way to reach Porto-Vecchio from mainland France or another European city. Figari Sud-Corse Airport is located about twenty kilometers to the west. To make your travels easier, Air Corsica has created a combined offer including flight and car rental at preferential rates.
Looking for a hotel room or other accommodation? We offer a selection of partner hotels. You can enjoy an unforgettable stay, whether by the sea or in the hinterland.
Want to find ideas for activities and leisure to plan your schedule? A partnership with Ceetiz, a French platform for booking tourist activities, allows us to offer you some of the best deals at preferential rates. You can find and book your chosen tourist activities online. Many benefits await you: low prices, skip-the-line tickets to avoid waiting.
Click here to see all activities.
Contact the Tourist Office
We’ve only presented a few highlights of Porto-Vecchio. We haven’t, for example, mentioned the lively nightlife in summer or the cultural calendar. To help you better plan your trip, we provide you with all the information you need to easily contact the Tourist Office.
Address: Porto Vecchio Tourist Office, Avenue du Maréchal Leclerc, 20137 Porto-Vecchio
Phone: 04 95 70 09 58
Opening hours (low season): Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Opening hours (high season): Every day from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Website: https://www.ot-portovecchio.com/
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