Visit Bonifacio: Top 20 Things to Do and See

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Things to Do in Bonifacio : The 20 Best Places to Visit (All Highlights)

You’re planning to visit Bonifacio during your trip to Corsica?

Great idea!

You will for sure love your trip to one of the most beautiful Corsican cities.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 20 best things to do in Bonifacio, with all points of interest and must-see attractions as well the best beaches around.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Bonifacio in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even a week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Bonifacio? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Visit Bonifacio: All Must-See attractions

1. The Citadel

Let’s start this Bonifacio travel guide with its must-see attraction: the Citadel, also called “upper town“. There, you will find most of the city’s points of interest!

The Citadel is perched on a more than 70 meters high cliff overlooking the sea. It’s truly impressive!

It is the heart of Bonifacio’s old town. During your walk through its narrow paved alleys, you will discover:

  • Rue Longue, the city’s former shopping street
  • Rue des 2 empereurs (“Street of the 2 emperors”) named after Charles V and Napoleon, who visited Bonifacio during their reign
  • Place d’Armes, the army parade ground, later transformed into a fish market
  • Genoa Gate, the upper city’s main entrance (point 2 of this guide)
  • The Fortress of the Standard and its beautiful viewpoints (point 3)
  • U Masgilu for its amazing view of the cliffs
  • The market square: from there, you can even see Sardinia if the weather is clear enough!
  • The King of Aragon’s Staircase,  directly carved into the cliff (point 4)
  • The church of Santa Maria Maggiore, the city’s oldest building (point 5)
  • The walkway of Bonifacio, the former sentry patrol path running all around the fortifications
  • The marine cemetery (point 6)
  • Le Gouvernail (The rudder) (point 7)

You will also find many bars and restaurants in Bonifacio’s citadel. It’s clearly a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink on a terrace!

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you want to learn more about Bonifacio’s history during your visit to the Citadel, you can rent an audio guide for 5€ at the tourist office. You will be guided through all the places I mentioned above.

You can access the upper town on foot, by car (the most convenient parking is at the marine cemetery) or with the Bonifacio tourist train.

Starting from the port, this small tourist train takes you directly to the upper town and leaves you at the Citadel’s entrance.

From there, continue your visit on foot and take the train again to return to the port whenever your want!

Bonifacio's Citadel
Bonifacio’s Citadel

2. Genoa Gate

Genoa Gate is the upper city’s main entry. It’s clearly one of the best places to visit in Bonifacio.

Until the 19th century, it was the Citadel’s only access. The drawbridge, built in 1830, replaced the old one from 1598. It functioned with a ingenious system of weights and pulleys!

While passing through the door, don’t miss the tourist office, located on your right.

There, you can get a city map, and buy the “Pass Monument”, for only 3.50€ per person. With this pass, you can visit the Fortress of the Standard and King of Aragon’s Staircase, 2 of Bonifacio’s must-see attractions.

Genoa Gate
Genoa Gate, Bonifacio’s Citadel main entrance

3. The Fortress of the Standard

Once you’ve crossed the Genoa Gate, start your visit of Bonifacio’s Citadel and discover the Fortress of the Standard. The entrance is included in your Monument Pass, or costs 2.50€ otherwise.

Go down to the underground rooms, and discover an exhibition dedicated to Bonifacio’s history and fortifications. It’s really interesting and well-explained!

You will also admire a typical medieval architecture, including the magnificent vaults shaped in rotunda dating from the 15th century.

Then, go for a walk on the ramparts. At the top of France’s highest bastion, you will admire a breathtaking view of the port, the cliffs, the Campu Rumanilu Plateau, and the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve.

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you’re on a family trip to Corsica, don’t forget to ask for the Fortress of the Standard Game Book, created especially for children. It’s available at the tourist office.

Fortress of the Standard Bonifacio
The Fortress of the Standard, in Bonifacio

4. The King of Aragon’s Staircase

King of Aragon’s Staircase is the other Bonifacio’s tourist attraction included in your “Pass Monument”.

According to the legend, this staircase was entirely built in one night by King of Aragon’s soldiers, when they invaded the city in 1420.

Well, that’s a completely made-up story!

This natural fault has existed for centuries, and has been improved over the years to become a real staircase.

Why did the people of Bonifacio dig a staircase in the cliffs? The answer is simple: it gives access to a source of drinking water.

You will be very impressed while going down the 187 steps of King of Aragon’s Staircase, as you will be overlooking the sea at more than 60 meters of altitude, and as the steps are very steep.

Once you’re at the bottom, walk on the path along the cliff to reach a natural cave and the Saint-Barthélemy well.

It’s now time for the hardest part of your journey: going back up to the Citadel!

Children will be rewarded for their effort, as they get a diploma certifying they climbed the staircase!

Voyage Tips - Advice

From Bonifacio, you can do a boat trip to the foot of the cliffs. There, you will realize how steep the stairs are! I’ll tell you more about those cruises later in this article.

King of Aragon's Staircase
King of Aragon’s Staircase

5. The church of Santa Maria Maggiore

Let’s continue this list of the best places to visit in Bonifacio with another historical monument located in the upper town: the church of Santa Maria Maggiore.

The Pisans started building this church in the 12th century, but it was only completed a century later by the Genoese.

Nowadays, it’s Bonifacio’s largest church, and also the oldest building in the whole town.

During your visit, you will discover a beautiful loggia, where the elders used to meet and debate the city’s important decisions.

Voyage Tips - Advice

You’re going to Bonifacio?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Bonifacio on the same dates as you, so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Bonifacio.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Bonifacio, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Bonifacio!

The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore Bonifacio
The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore, in Bonifacio

6. Bonifacio Marine Cemetery

Continue your visit and reach the end of the peninsula to discover the Bonifacio Marine Cemetery, overlooking the Bouches de Bonifacio.

Take a short stroll in its alleys and contemplate the nice contrast between the white tombs and the blue sea and sky. The interesting thing about this cemetery is that you won’t find here simple grey tombs, but mostly small family mausoleums and chapels. 

It’s clearly one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the Mediterranean.

Voyage Tips - Advice

There is a parking lot right next to the marine cemetery. It’s very convenient if you want to visit the upper town!

The Bonifacio Marine Cemetery
The Bonifacio Marine Cemetery

7. The Gouvernail (The Rudder)

The entrance of the Gouvernail, or “Rudder”, is facing the Marine Cemetery.

This tunnel was built in the 1890’s by the French. It was later used by Italians and Germans during the Second World War. During your visit, you will walk down the 168 man-made steps to reach the bunker.

There, a huge searchlight, with a 12 kilometer range, was used to control the boats entering the Bouches de Bonifacio and the port.

About 10 meters above the sea level, you will discover an opening with rocks shaped as a ship’s rudder, giving the place its name. The view of the cliffs is also very nice.

The entrance costs 2.50€ per person and isn’t included in the “Pass Monument”.

The Gouvernail Rudder Bonifacio
The Gouvernail, or Rudder, in Bonifacio

8. Bonifacio’s port

Bonifacio’s port is located at the foothill of the citadel.

You will love this lively neighborhood and its many bars and restaurants. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink on a terrace while admiring the yachts!

The port is the starting point of the boat tours to see the cliffs of Bonifacio (detailed in the point 10 of this article). It’s also the departure point to the Lavezzi islands (I will give you more info about the islands the point 13 of this Bonifacio travel guide) or Sardinia.

From there, you can also take the little Bonifacio train to reach the Citadel.

And if you need to park your car, there are paid parking lots facing the port.

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you want to enjoy an excellent ice cream, go to Rocca-Serra Glacier, located on the docks. It’s one of Corsica’s best ice-cream shops!

They offer many different flavors. Will you be able to choose between the classic ones and the typical Brocciu or Myrtle from Corsica?

Bonifacio port
Bonifacio’s port

9. The other churches to visit in Bonifacio

If you’ve already visited the church of Santa Maria Maggiore, you should know that there are several other beautiful churches in Bonifacio.

  • The Church of Saint John the Baptist was built in 1785 and is often nicknamed the “Chapel of Mercy”.
  • The Church of Saint-Dominique, classified as a Historic Monument. It’s one of Corsica’s very few churches with some Gothic Architecture elements!
  • The Church of Saint Erasmus is dedicated to the patron saint of fishermen. Located right next to the port, it’s the only church in the lower town.
  • The Holy Cross Church: this former hospice was founded in the 12th century. It’s said that a fragment of the Christ’s cross is kept in this church.
Church Saint Dominique Bonifacio
The Church of Saint Dominique, in Bonifacio

10. Enjoy a boat-trip in Bonifacio

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Bonifacio, then you should really do a boat-trip to the foothill of the cliffs. 

During your tour, you will discover many sea caves, coves and cliffs from the sea. It’s a great way to discover the city from another angle.

The best places to see during this cruise are:

  • Madonetta lighthouse
  • Sdragonato cave, renowned for the hole in its ceiling, shaped as Corsica!
  • The bay of Fazzio and its beautiful beach
  • Paraguan beach, just as beautiful.
  • The Saint-Antoine cave, also nicknamed “Napoleon’s hat” for its characteristic shape
  • The grain of sand, a big lonely rock at the foot of the cliffs.

You will also admire a beautiful view of the citadel with its houses perched on the cliffs, and of the King of Aragon’s Staircase. From the sea, you can see that digging it must have been tough!

These 1-hour cruises are starting every 30 minutes from the port of Bonifacio. You can also opt for a boat-trip with underwater vision, departing every hour and lasting about 1h15. There is no need to book your tickets in advance.

You will find every information you need on the boat company’s official website.

And if you prefer to enjoy a VIP experience, there are 2 other options that will allow you to discover Bonifacio’s surroundings by boat, away from the other tourists:

1) Book a private boat trip from Bonifacio

In my opinion, this is the best way to make the most of your day at sea in Bonifacio!

You will rent a boat with an experienced skipper that will take care of showing you the most beautiful places around Bonifacio.

Motorboat, sailboat, catamaran or even yacht: choose the boat you want to spend a dream day!

As you can imagine, this type of VIP day at sea is extremely popular, so you should rent your boat with skipper as soon as possible. It would be a shame to miss this day because all boats are already rented!

You can find all boats with skipper in Bonifacio by clicking on the button below:

2) Rent a boat to discover Bonifacio’s surroundings

If you have a boat license, your second option for a great day at sea is simply to rent a boat!

To do so, it’s very simple: you just have to click on the button below:

Voyage Tips - Advice

The SPMB is the company organizing these boat trips. They offer 2 private and free car parks for their clients.

During your cruise, but also during your visit of Bonifacio afterwards, you can leave your car in these parking lots. They are located next to the police station (“Gendarmerie”). Don’t worry, it is well-indicated by signs!

Boat trip Bonifacio Cliffs
View of Bonifacio and its cliffs from the sea

11. Campu Rumanilu and Pertusatu Lighthouse Trail

You’ve already visited most of Bonifacio’s Citadel, and you’re looking for something different?

Then, leave the upper town and go for a walk on the Campu Rumanilu path.

Go through Genoa Gate, then follow the stairs in front of it to reach Saint-Roch Pass and the trail’s entrance.

During your walk, you will enjoy many magnificent viewpoints and be able to take the most beautiful pictures of Bonifacio (the same you see on the postcards of the city!)

You won’t have to walk for a long time to enjoy these breathtaking panoramas, but if you want to do the whole trail, it will take you around 1 hour to reach the Trois Pointes beach.

From there, you can follow another path and discover the Cap de Pertusatu and its lighthouse. It takes around 1 hour more to reach the Cap.

Once you’re at the Cap, walk down to Saint-Antoine beach, a beautiful sandy beach with rocks at the water’s edge. It’s famous for its large reef shaped like a stranded ship!

You’ll get 2 options to go to the beach:

  • The very steep path starting from the lighthouse’s viewpoint. Don’t try it in flip-flops!
  • An easier trail starting before the lighthouse, taking you to the beach in less than 10 minutes

Don’t miss Orca Cave, a beautiful open-air cave located right next to the beach.

Voyage Tips - Advice

If you don’t feel like walking that much, take your car and park on the road close to the trail.

There is a small parking lot at the semaphore. From there, walk for about 20 minutes to reach the Cap de Pertusatu or Saint-Antoine beach.

And if you’re looking for the best spot to admire the sunset in Bonifacio, go to the old artillery battery, right after the Trois Pointes beach.

Bonifacio
View of Bonifacio from the cliffs

12. The best outdoor activities to do around Bonifacio

If you’re staying in Bonifacio for a few days or a week, you will have enough time to discover great outdoor activities!

Here are the best activities you can do in Bonifacio and its surroundings:

  • Stand Up paddle in the turquoise waters of Piantarella lagoon. A great experience!
  • Kayaking in the turquoise waters of Piantarella beach
  • Windsurfing and kite-surfing, also at Piantarella beach
  • Paddle, towed buoys, pedal boats or water-skiing at Maora beach and around Bonifacio
  • Jet-skiing, with many excursions starting from the port of Bonifacio
  • Diving to explore the beautiful seabed of the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve
  • Seabob, an electric vehicle going at more than 20 km/h above or under the surface. As this activity is quite uncommon, you should definitely try it during your itinerary in Corsica!
  • Mountain biking in Bonifacio’s countryside
  • Horse riding on the seafront
  • Quad biking on Bonifacio’s heights, to enjoy beautiful views of the Citadel
  • Golf: the Sperone golf course is often ranked among the most beautiful in the world, due to its exceptional location!
Diving Corsica
Diving in Bonifacio

What to do around Bonifacio?

Now that you’ve discovered all the best places to visit in Bonifacio, it’s time to continue your road trip in Corsica to visit the city’s surroundings. 

13. The Lavezzi Islands

It’s impossible to visit Bonifacio’s surroundings without spending a day in the Lavezzi Islands.

These islands are located in the Bouches de Bonifacio Nature Reserve, protecting its incredible marine and terrestrial wildlife. It takes only 30 minutes by boat to get there. The boats are departing from the port of Bonifacio every hour from 9:30am.

You will be truly amazed by the islands’ beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes. The many small coves with white sand and translucent waters are only waiting for you!

Once you’re on the island, you will have a few hours of free time to discover the island or just relax at the beach.

A marked trail goes all around the island. It takes normally around 1 hour, but you should count at least 2h30 with the many photo stops!

In my opinion, “Chiesa” is the island’s prettiest beach, with its large rocks. It’s also the quietest, as it’s inaccessible by boat.

While planning your trip to Lavezzi Islands, remember that you’re in a remote area: you won’t find any bar, drinking water or toilets on the island. So don’t forget to bring everything you need, including sunscreen!

On the way back to Bonifacio, you will sail close to Cavallo Island and its celebrities’ houses.

You will also discover the beaches of Piantarella and Sperone, as well as Bonifacio’s cliffs, King of Aragon’s Staircase, the Grain of Sand and finally Sdragonato Cave.

It’s the same trip as the 1-hour boat tour I mentioned above. If you’re planing a trip to the Lavezzi Islands during your itinerary in Corsica, you don’t have to do the 1 hour Bonifacio boat trip.

Just like for the above cruise, you have 2 options to enjoy a VIP trip (click on the orange links):

You’ll find every details you need to visit the Lavezzi Islands in my article: Visit the Lavezzi Islands: the definitive guide.

Voyage Tips - Advice

When taking the boat back to Bonifacio, remember to be there at least 20 minutes before departure, otherwise you’ll need to wait for the next boat.

Once you’re on the boat, try to be on the right side, as it’s where you’ll see the coast!

As I told you earlier, the SPBM offers 2 free car parks for its clients, located only 5 minutes away from the port, close to the “Gendarmerie”. You can leave your car there while you’re visiting the Lavezzi Islands.

Iles Lavezzi
The Lavezzi Islands

14. The most beautiful beaches around Bonifacio

You’re looking for a great place to spend a relaxing day around Bonifacio?

Well, there are many beautiful beaches in Bonifacio’s surroundings!

The best places to take a dip around Bonifacio are:

East of Bonifacio:

  • Piantarella: its nice lagoon with turquoise water is the ideal place to enjoy many nautical activities such as kayaking or windsurf
  • Petit Sperone beach: a beautiful cove with white sand and shallow waters, sheltered from the wind. Walk for around 10 minutes from Piantarella to access this cove, often ranked among Corsica’s most beautiful beaches!
  • Grand Sperone beach: located a 10-minute walk from Petit Sperone beach. Slightly bigger than its little sister, but also very pretty with its white sand and turquoise waters!
  • Maora beach: a small sandy beach with a snack bar. There, you can rent deckchairs and umbrellas, enjoy many nautical activities or even rent a boat to discover the beach’s surroundings! It’s a great place to visit if you’re on a family trip to Corsica.
  • Cara Lunga: these small coves are quite wild and very pretty. The first one is only 5 minutes away from the car park, and you’ll find a straw hut selling drinks and sandwiches there.
  • Balistra beach: a large and beautiful white sand beach, surrounded by mountains. There is a big pond right behind the beach, and also a small restaurant. You can get there by car, as the trail is in good condition and with a large car park at the end. This beach is very popular with vans and camping cars!

North of Bonifacio:

  • Paragan beach: a very nice sandy beach, sheltered from the wind and really great for swimming! You can get there by car, but you will have to park along the road.
  • Fazzio beach: located a 15-minute walk from Paragan beach, at the end of a small fjord. You’ll love its beautiful natural landscapes, and it’s also a great place to take a dip!
  • Tunara beach: another beautiful sandy beach with shallow water and easily accessible by car. There, you will find a parking and a restaurant. This beach is often very busy.
  • Stagnolu beach: from Tunara, follow the costal path for around 5 minutes to reach this beautiful and quite remote sandy beach. During your walk, you will also discover a few small coves where you can swim. From Stagnolu, you can follow the marked trail and reach Paragan beach.
Little Sperone Beach Bonifacio
Little Sperone Beach, near Bonifacio

15. The best coastal paths around Bonifacio

If you’re an hiking lover, take advantage of your holidays in Bonifacio to make beautiful walks. There are many coastal paths in Bonifacio’s surroundings!

In addition to the Campu Rumanilu trail I described earlier, the best trails near Bonifacio are:

  • Fenu, a beautiful path on the seaside, connecting Tunara and Paragan beaches.
  • There is another trail, also named Fenu, reaching Capu di Fenu lighthouse through the maquis.
  • The Strada Vecia and Madonetta path, often nicknamed “Beaches trail”. During your walk, you will discover the Madonetta lighthouse, Fazzio beach and Paragan beach.
  • Another short trail goes to La Catena and Arinella beaches, 2 small coves located right next to the port of Bonifacio
  • The Lavezzi Island Trail, allowing you to walk all around the island and discover its most beautiful beaches.
Paragan Beach Bonifacio
Paragan Beach, near Bonifacio

16. Porto-Vecchio

Porto-Vecchio is another great place to visit near Bonifacio.

Located only a 40-minute drive from Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio offers magnificent beaches, often ranked among Corsica’s most beautiful!

  • Rondinara Beach
  • Santa Giulia Beach
  • Palombaggia Beach
  • Tamaricciu Beach
  • Pinarellu Beach

All these beaches are incredibly beautiful, with find sand, turquoise waters and amazing natural landscapes. It’s really hard to say which is the prettier!

You’ll have to try them all to make your own opinion😄.

You will find more information about the best things to do Porto-Vecchio and its beautiful beaches in my article: Porto-Vecchio: Top 17 things to do.

Plage de la Rondinara Porto-Vecchio
Rondinara Beach, in Porto-Vecchio

17. Sartene

If you want to enjoy something different than the beaches in Bonifacio’s surroundings, you should visit Sartene.

Take your car and drive north for 1h on the road to Ajaccio to reach this small typical village.

Start your visit at Liberation Square and walk down the village’s narrows alleys towards Sainte-Marie church. During your tour, you will discover beautiful old stone houses. Sartene has kept its original charm, even if its a very touristic place now!

You can rent an audio guide for 5€ at the tourist office, if you want more information about the village’s history and its main buildings.

Voyage Tips - Advice

On the road to Sartene, stop at Casa di Roccapina viewpoint, to discover an big rock shaped like a lion. You can also admire the beautiful Roccapina beach located below.

Sartene
Sartene

18. Propriano

Propriano is one of Corsica’s most famous seaside resorts. It’s located between Ajaccio and Bonifacio, only 10 kilometers away from Sartene.

While taking a stroll in the village, you will discover many restaurants and shops.

Several boat companies are also offering full-day cruises to discover the best points of interest near Propriano:

  • The wild coasts of Sartenais-Valinco and its beaches inaccessible by car. A 3-hour swimming stop at Tivella beach is also included.
  • Scandola Nature Reserve and the Calanques de Piana, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • The Calanques du Belvedere, the Bay of the Barbaresques and the “îlot aux oiseaux” (Bird’s island)

If you’re looking for more information about the rates and schedules, you can visit the official website.

There are also several beautiful beaches in Propriano’s surroundings:

  • Portigliolo beach: a huge wild beach located at the mouth of a river.
  • Campomoro beach: from there, you can walk to Campomoro tower or do a kayak tour. During the kayak tour, you might even be lucky enough to see dolphins! (For information and reservations click here)
  • The many beaches in the Gulf of Valinco, located next to the port of Propriano: Barraci, Marinca, Calanca,…
Portigliolo Beach Propriano
Portigliolo Beach, in Propriano

19. Filitosa

Filitosa is one of Corsica’s few prehistorical sites. It’s located close to Propriano, about a 1h30 drive from Bonifacio.

This ancient site was discovered in 1946, and is now classified as a historical monument. The excavations on the site uncovered traces of human occupation dating from the 6th century BC to the Roman period.

Take a stroll on the site and discover the many archaeological remains, including impressive human-shaped menhir statues, with their engraved daggers and swords.

You will find every information you need to plan your visit on the official website.

Voyage Tips - Advice

The entrance ticket costs 9€ per person. In my opinion, it was too expensive for this archaeological site, as it takes only 30 minutes to visit it! The place is quite nice, but an entrance fee around 4€ per person would have been more appropriate.

If you want to discover prehistoric sites in Corsica, you should visit the archaeological sites of Pianu de Cauri, near Sartene, which have a free entrance!

There, you will admire:

  • I Stantari megalithic alignments
  • Renaghju alignments
  • Funtanaccia Dolmen

You can find more information about these archaeological sites on the Collectivité de Corse website.

Filitosa Corsica
Filitosa, in Corsica

20. Sardinia

It’s now time to finish this list of the 20 best things to do in Bonifacio.

Let’s leave Corsica and move to Italy with a visit to Sardinia! 

From the port of Bonifacio, the ferry reaches the port of Santa Teresa de Gallura, in the North of Sardinia, in less than an hour. It costs around 30€ per person.

There, you should visit Capo Testa and La Maddalena archipelago. I really enjoyed these places during my trip to Sardinia!

You can also continue your holidays and do a complete itinerary in Sardinia. You will find everything you need about the best places to visit in Sardinia in my articles: Visit Sardinia.

La Maddalena archipelago
La Maddalena archipelago

How many days to visit Bonifacio?

If you only want to visit the city of Bonifacio, you won’t need more than one day. But it would be a shame to get there without discovering the city’s surroundings, offering magnificent natural landscapes and beautiful beaches.

That’s why you should spend at least 3 days in Bonifacio!

During your stay, you can go to the Lavezzi Islands and discover the beaches around Bonifacio, often ranked among Corsica’s most beautiful.

Here are the best itineraries to make the most of your stay in Bonifacio:

1 day in Bonifacio

If you only have one day to visit Bonifacio, here is the best itinerary to discover the city’s points of interest:

  • Start your visit in Bonifacio’s upper town
  • Walk through Genoa Gate and stop at the Tourist Office. There, buy the “Pass Monument” and get a map of the city.
  • Visit the Fortress of the Standard (included in your “Pass Monument”)
  • Stop for a photo on the market place
  • Discover the church of Santa Maria Maggiore
  • Have a look at Bonifacio’s other religious buildings: Saint-John the Baptist, Saint-Dominique and the Holy Cross churches
  • Walk down the famous King of Aragon’s Staircase (also included in your “Pass Monument”)
  • Take a stroll in the marine cemetery
  • Go down into Le Gouvernail (the Rudder) Tunnel
  • Lunch break
  • In the afternoon, walk along Campu Rumanilu path to discover magnificent viewpoints over the cliffs and the citadel
  • End your day with a one-hour boat-trip, to see the city and the cliffs from a different angle! These cruises are starting from the port of Bonifacio. 

2 days in Bonifacio

If you’re staying in Bonifacio for 2 days, you will have to modify the first day’s program a bit:

  • Follow my day 1 itinerary up to the walk along Campu Rumanilu path
  • If you feel like walking, continue your hike to Pertusato lighthouse
  • End your day at Saint-Antoine beach
  • (You won’t need to do the boat trip now, as you will do a full-day cruise on day 2!)

On your 2nd day, opt for a full-day boat trip to the Lavezzi Islands, and spend your day enjoying the island’s beautiful beaches and coves.

King of Aragon's Staircase cliffs Bonifacio
The view from the bottom of King of Aragon’s Staircase, in Bonifacio

3 days in Bonifacio

If you spend 3 days in Bonifacio, in addition to the 2 days above, you can add:

  • A day at Petit and Grand Sperone beaches. If you’re tired of sunbathing., walk for 10 minutes to reach Piantarella beach, where you can enjoy many nautical activities such as kayaking or windsurfing.

Or

  • If you feel like walking, take one of the coastal paths (point 15 of this article), and enjoy beautiful landscapes! You can spend half your day walking and the other half relaxing and swimming.

4, 5 days or a week in Bonifacio

If you have 4, 5 days or even a week in Bonifacio, you can also:

  • Go to Porto-Vecchio and enjoy some of Corsica’s most beautiful beaches.
  • Drive North West of Bonifacio and visit Filitosa, Propriano, Sartene, Roccapina. One day is enough to discover all these places.
  • Discover great outdoor activities, such as Jet-Ski, Seabob, quad bike or mountain bike!

Now that you’ve visited most of Bonifacio’s surroundings, how about continuing your holidays in Sardinia? From the port of Bonifacio, it takes less than 1 hour to reach this Italian island!

You can discover all the best things to do in Sardinia in my article: The 25 best things to do in Sardinia.

Where to stay in Bonifacio

If you want to spend a few nights in Bonifacio, you can choose an accommodation in the heart of the city, near the port or the Citadel. From there, you will have an easy access to all the city’s must-see attractions!

You can also opt for a stay a bit further from the city, if you’re looking for quieter holidays.

To help you choose the perfect accommodation, here is my selection of the best hotels in Bonifacio, depending on where you want to stay and your budget.

Best hotels in Bonifacio’s city centre:

  • Best Western Hotel du Roy d’Aragon: Located in the old port of Bonifacio. The comfortable and modern double rooms are starting from 80€ per night, with an extra 14.50€ for breakfast. Strong Points: the location at the foothill of the citadel, the copious breakfast, the free parking. A great choice in Bonifacio for its exceptional value for money!
  • Solemare: Located 100 meters from the port and 800 meters from King of Aragon’s staircase. This hotel offers modern double rooms with an original decoration and a view of the port. The prices starts at 110€ per night. Breakfast will cost you 15€. What I loved: the heated outdoor swimming pool, the beautiful view, the private parking. It is one of the few hotels in Bonifacio’s city center with a swimming pool!
  • Santateresa: Located in the upper town of Bonifacio. You will love the design and comfortable double rooms with sea view, starting from 180€ per night, with an extra 17€ for breakfast. What I loved: the excellent location in the heart of the Citadel, the breathtaking view, the beautiful decoration, the private parking. The best choice for a luxury stay in Bonifacio!

Best hotels in Bonifacio’s surroundings:

  • Hotel Maora Village: Located 300 meters from the beach of Maora and 6 km from Bonifacio. The double room with private terrace are starting from 75€, with breakfast included. Strong points: the swimming pool and jacuzzi, the quietness, the excellent breakfast. It’s a great choice in Bonifacio’s surroundings for its exceptional value for money!
  • Les Chambres de Casarina: Located 400 meters from the beach of Maora and 6 km from Bonifacio’s city centre. You’ll love the comfortable and well-decorated double room with balcony, starting from 150€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the heated swimming pool, the beautiful garden, the quiet location.
  • Hotel Cala di Greco: Located 2 km from the upper town of Bonifacio. There, you will discover well-decorated suites, some with private swimming pool. The prices starts at 200€ per night, with an extra 16€ for breakfast. What I loved: the 2 large heated outdoor swimming pools, the exceptional view over Bonifacio, the magnificent location.  It’s my recommendation for a romantic stay in Bonifacio!
  • Hotel Version Maquis Citadel: This 5* hotel is located 1.5 km away from the citadel. It offers sublime and spacious suites with private terrace, starting from 450€ per night including breakfast. What I loved: the infinity pool, the calm location, the very kind staff, the excellent restaurant. It’s my recommendation for a luxury stay in Bonifacio’s surroundings!
View of Bonifacio from the Cala di Greco Hotel
View of Bonifacio from the Cala di Greco Hotel

Where to eat in Bonifacio

  • A Suliata: Located on the road to Sant’Amanza, only a 10-minute drive from Bonifacio. There, you will enjoy delicious pizzas baked in a wood oven, while admiring the beautiful view from the panoramic terrace. The food is copious and excellent, and the staff is really kind! You should book your table in advance, as this restaurant is often full.
  • La minute Moule: Located Rue du moulin, in Bonifacio’s upper town. This restaurant serves excellent mussels from the Pond of Diane, in Eastern Corsica. Choose the size of your plate and your sauce. It comes with homemade fries and a drink is also included. This restaurant offers a great value for money!
  • Restaurant les Quatre Vents: Located on the port, this restaurant serves delicious fresh fish and seafood dishes. Enjoy your meals on the terrace while admiring the yachts!

How to get to Bonifacio?

By plane

The nearest airport to Bonifacio is Figari airport, located 20 km away from the city centre.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible, as the flight prices to Figari can vary a lot throughout the year!

You can check the rates and schedules with our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner. It’s a great way to get the best flight prices!

If you want to make the most of your stay in Bonifacio, you should definitely rent a car. It’s the only way to discover the city’s surroundings!

To get the best prices for your car rental in Corsica, you should use Rentalcars.com website.

This very convenient website allows you to compare prices between all the rental companies in Bonifacio. You can choose the cheapest company, or the one with the best reputation!

Click the button below to check rental cars prices in Bonifacio now:

By ferry boat

There are no ferry boats between Bonifacio and the continent, whether it is France or Italy. The only ferry line connects Bonifacio and Santa Teresa de Gallura, in the North of Sardinia.

You can also take the ferry from France to Porto-Vecchio, located a 40-minute drive from Bonifacio.

With a boat trip from Ajaccio or Porticcio

From Ajaccio or Porticcio, you can also go to Bonifacio by opting for a boat trip! There are 1 or 2 departures per week and it takes 3 hours to get to Bonifacio.

You then have 4 hours of free time to visit the city before taking the boat back.

If you want to visit Bonifacio as a day trip from Ajaccio, you just have to click on the following orange link: Boat to Bonifacio from Ajaccio.

Renting a boat in Bonifacio

If you want to rent a boat for a nice day at sea during your stay in Bonifacio, you should book it with Samboat.

Motorboats, sailboats, yachts, small boats without a license, with or without a skipper: they simply have the most complete offer for boat rental!

So, what are you waiting for to book your boat trip in Corsica? 😊

Tourist map of Bonifacio

I have created for you a tourist map of Bonifacio and Corsica, listing all the must see attractions and points of interest I have talked about in this article. You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow on it.

And you, what do you plan to do during your trip to Bonifacio?

Book your trip now and save money!

You’re traveling to Corsica? These articles will help you !

Discover all my articles about Corsica: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Corsica are listed there.

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Visit Bonifacio
Visit Bonifacio: the 20 best points of interest
Anonymous

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Discussion4 Comments

  1. eimiya

    Hi Thank you very much for your detailed information. But i would like to know how we can move around within town and also within whole Crosica island? Is that possible with public transportation? We do not know how to drive a car? I look forward to your reply! Thanks again!

    • Vincent
      Vincent

      Hello,

      Thank you!

      It’s very complicated to visit Corsica without a car because there are very few bus routes and they only connect the main towns.

      For example, from Bonifacio, you can go to Porto-Vecchio, Ajaccio and Corte. But even to get to Porto-Vecchio, which is close to Bonifacio, there are only 3 outward journeys a day.
      And the buses don’t get you to the beaches or the start of the hiking trails.

      If you want to see the different bus routes in Corsica, you can visit this website: Corsica Bus.

      Enjoy your stay in Bonifacio!

  2. Dave C

    Hi,
    Just back from Corsica with a 1 day visit to Bonifacio. We followed your 1 day itinerary and it worked perfectly. We would have missed half of what you suggested by just walking round ourselves.

    Many many thanks

    D&S

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