Whether as a Genoese city in the Middle Ages, the imperial city of Napoleon or a holiday resort in the Belle Époque, Ajaccio has always charmed visitors.
Enjoying an ideal sheltered location on Corsica's west coast, Ajaccio has always attracted visitors from the continent ever since it was founded. Its architecture, inspired by a range of influences, is the most beautiful evidence of this. On the city's doorstep, the countryside provides an opportunity for picturesque walks, while the many beaches and creeks in the surrounding area offer relaxation.
With a history intimately bound up with that of its European hosts, Ajaccio reveals its many faces as you move from one neighbourhood to the next. So, take a stroll along the narrow streets lined with tall colourful houses, the old town and the citadel showing Ajaccio's Genoese origins.
Going back in time, you can also follow the first steps of Napoleon Bonaparte. There are numerous sites and monuments closely linked with the city's most famous son, starting with the cathedral where he was baptised. The Maison Bonaparte, where he lived, today houses a museum entirely dedicated to the emperor and his family. Donated by Cardinal Joseph Fesch, Napoleon's uncle, the Palais Fesch is home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts and an impressive library.
Near the old town, several buildings, such as the Château Conti and the Villa della Rocca are indicative of Ajaccio's reputation and appeal as a seaside destination, which it has been since the second half of the 19th century. With ports, creeks and beaches, there's always an abundance of traditional seaside crafts and water sports on offer.
Notwithstanding the bracing influence of the nearby sea, Ajaccio unsurprisingly has a warm and dry Mediterranean climate in the summer, especially when the sirocco blows. While snow is rare and the winters are mild, there can sometimes be violent storms in autumn and spring.
In terms of transport, the quickest and most practical way to get to Ajaccio is by plane from all over Europe. Just a few miles from the city centre, Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte international airport has daily flights to major European cities. As you might expect for a port city, Ajaccio can also be reached by boat from Toulon, Marseilles and Nice. On the island itself, the city has several major road and rail links and you can get around the city via several bus services.
Faithful to its origins, Ajaccio still attracts many tourists, who are won over by its natural charms, its rich history and culture and its healthy lifestyle.
