Bastia Travel Guide

Discover the best of Bastia with this comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from cultural and natural attractions to the best activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety, and transportation options.


A Comprehensive Tour Guide to Bastia

Located in the northeastern coast of Corsica, Bastia is a charming port city that boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoorsy type, or simply looking to soak up local culture, Bastia offers plenty of exciting opportunities to explore. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city’s top attractions, best activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, local customs, safety tips, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Bastia

Bastia offers an abundance of attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some of the top places you should add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Church of St-Jean-Baptiste - A stunning Baroque church that features an impressive baroque altar, valuable paintings, and intricate stained-glass windows.
  2. Citadel of Bastia - A well-preserved fortress that stands atop a hill overlooking the sea. The citadel affords spectacular views of the port and city, and houses a museum showcasing local history and culture.
  3. Musee de Bastia - A museum that delves into Corsica’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits that feature fine arts, archaeological artifacts, and folklore elements.
  4. Place du Marche - A bustling market square that hosts a variety of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs.
  5. Port de Bastia - The city’s bustling port where you can take in the hustle and bustle of daily life or take a ferry to other destinations in Corsica or Italy.

Natural Attractions of Bastia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bastia also boasts stunning natural landscapes that are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some natural attractions worth visiting:

  1. Cap Corse - A rugged cape that juts out into the Mediterranean and offers jaw-dropping views of the sea and landscapes. The rocky coastline, pristine beaches, and tranquil villages provide a glimpse into the island’s pastoral beauty.
  2. Sentier des Douaniers - A beautiful coastal walking trail that stretches for 19 kilometers along the Cape Corsica. This trail offers breathtaking views of the island’s sheer cliffs, hidden bays, and rocky inlets.
  3. Monte Stello - Corsica’s third-highest peak that offers a challenging hike and panoramic views of the island’s landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bastia

For adventurous travelers looking to explore Bastia’s natural beauty on foot or on a bike, the island offers a multitude of trails and routes.

Hiking Trails

  1. GR 20 - Known to be among the toughest hiking trails in Europe, the GR 20 takes adventurers through Corsica’s rugged mountainous terrain, past alpine lakes and rocky ridges.
  2. Sentier du Littoral - A coastal path that meanders through colorful landscapes, past small fishing ports and seaside villages.

Biking Routes

  1. La Route des Sens et des Vins - A scenic bike route that crisscrosses across several Corsican wineries, offering breathtaking views of the vineyards, mountains, and coastline.
  2. La Route des Agriates - A challenging route that takes cyclists through the stunning Agriates Desert, featuring red rocks, dramatic views, and turquoise waters.

Best Things to Do in Bastia: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Bastia offers an abundance of activities and tours that cater to all interests.

  1. Wine Tasting Tour - Take a tour of some of the region’s best wineries and vineyards, and learn about Corsica’s history of winemaking.
  2. Boat Tour - Explore the coast by boat and take in the stunning views of the island’s landscapes, hidden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.
  3. Foods Tour - Sample the local cuisine and delicacies by taking a food tour that takes you to the best eateries and food vendors in town.
  4. Horseback Riding - Experience Corsica’s rugged beauty on horseback, explore the forests, and enjoy views of the island’s coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bastia

A week in Bastia affords ample time to explore the city’s top attractions and natural landscapes. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the Citadel of Bastia and learn about Corsica’s history and culture at the Musee de Bastia.

Day 2: Take a walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods and visit the Church of St-Jean-Baptiste.

Day 3: Rent a bike and explore Cap Corse and Sentier des Douaniers.

Day 4: Visit the Market Square and sample the local cuisine at one of the market’s food vendors.

Day 5: Take a wine tasting tour and visit some of the region’s best vineyards and wineries.

Day 6: Spend the day relaxing and swimming at one of the island’s pristine beaches.

Day 7: Take a boat tour along the coastline and marvel at Bastia’s scenic beauty from the sea.

Food and Drink Scene of Bastia

Bastia’s cuisine is a fusion of French and Italian flavors that reflect the island’s unique cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Brocciu - A type of cheese made from sheep’s milk that is used in a variety of dishes, from pastries to savory dishes.
  2. Fritelle - A type of local pastry that’s often consumed during the carnival season.
  3. Civet de Sanglier - A hearty stew made from wild boar meat, tomatoes, wine, and herbs.
  4. Figatelli - A type of Corsican sausage that’s made from pork liver and flavored with herbs, spices, and red wine.

Local Beverages

  1. Patrimonio wine - A type of locally produced wine that’s made from the Vermentino and Nielluccio grape varieties.
  2. Cedratine - A liqueur that’s made from the island’s native and rare citron fruit.
  3. Pietra beer - A beer that’s brewed using chestnuts that grows on the island’s forests.

Where to Stay in Bastia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bastia offers a variety of accommodation options that cater to all budgets, from luxurious hotels to cozy guest houses. Here are some top options:

  1. Hotel emile - a 4-star hotel that’s located in the heart of Bastia’s historic district, offering stylish accommodation with modern amenities and panoramic views of the sea.
  2. Les Voyageurs - a budget-friendly hotel that’s located near the port, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  3. La Villa - a charming guesthouse that’s housed in a 19th-century mansion, featuring elegant décor, lush gardens, and a pool.

What to Buy in Bastia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When it comes to buying souvenirs, Bastia offers a wealth of options that reflect the island’s culture and history. Here are some top choices:

  1. Corsican cheese and wine - Bring home some Corsican cheese, such as brocciu, figatelli, or sheep’s milk cheese, and pair it with the locally produced Patrimonio wine.
  2. Handcrafted jewelry and pottery - Visit the local markets and artisanal shops and pick up some unique jewelry and pottery that reflect Corsica’s art and design tradition.
  3. Citron products - Bring home some Cedratine liqueur or other products that are made from the rare Corsican citron fruit.

Local Culture and Customs of Bastia

Corsica and Bastia have unique cultural traditions that are worth exploring. Here are some recommendations for experiencing the local culture:

  1. Celebrate Bastille Day - Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14th, is a big holiday in Bastia and all around Corsica, featuring parades, fireworks, and public festivities.
  2. Learn the Corsican language - Corsican is still spoken by locals, and it’s worth learning a few basic expressions to interact with locals and understand the island’s culture.
  3. Explore the local markets - Marketplaces offer a glimpse into the daily lives of locals and showcase Corsica’s top products, food, and crafts.

Best Time to Visit Bastia

The best time to visit Bastia is during the summer, from June to September, when temperatures are warm, and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. However, keep in mind that this is also the high season, and prices can be higher than during the shoulder and the low seasons.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bastia

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Try the local cuisine and wine.
  3. Learn a few basic Corsican expressions to interact with locals.

Don’t:

  1. Litter or damage the natural environment.
  2. Disrespect local religious beliefs and sites.
  3. Engage in reckless outdoor activities without proper gear and safety precautions.

Safety and Health

Bastia is generally safe for travelers, although it’s always wise to take necessary precautions when traveling in any foreign destination. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy in Bastia:

Safety in Bastia

  1. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in dimly lit areas.
  2. Keep valuables and important documents in a secure place and out of sight.
  3. Be careful when driving on the narrow and winding Corsican roads.

Health in Bastia

  1. Make sure to use sunscreen and protective gear when exploring the outdoors.
  2. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, particularly during the hot summer months.
  3. Consult a doctor if you have any health concerns before you travel.

Getting to Bastia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Bastia is relatively easy, whether you’re arriving by plane, bus, or ferry.

Airports Near Bastia

  1. Bastia-Poretta Airport - Located about 18 kilometers south of the city, Bastia-Poretta Airport has daily flights to several major European destinations, including Paris, Milan, and Brussels.

Bus Stations Near Bastia

  1. Train Station - Flixbus, Eurolines, and other bus lines operate daily services to and from Bastia’s train station, located in the city center.

Other Options

  1. Ferry - Bastia has a busy port that connects the city to several Italian and Corsican destinations, including Nice, Marseille, and Livorno.

How to Get Around in Bastia

Bastia is a walkable city, and many of its main attractions can be reached on foot. However, if you’re looking to explore the countryside or access remote beaches, you’ll need to rent a car or a bike.

Where to Go Next from Bastia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bastia is ideally located to explore other Corsican destinations and attractions. Some nearby places worth visiting include:

  1. Cap Corse - Explore the stunning landscapes, hidden bays, and tranquil villages of Corsica’s rugged Cape.
  2. St. Florent - A charming seaside village that boasts tranquil beaches, picturesque harbor, and an ancient citadel.
  3. Ajaccio - Corsica’s capital city that features historic monuments, excellent museums, and a bustling food and drink scene.

Conclusion

Bastia is a treasure trove of authentic Corsican experiences, from its rich history and culture to outdoor adventures and delicious food and drink scene. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to visit Bastia and discover everything this enchanting port city has to offer. Bon voyage!

St Jean Baptiste Cathedral overlooking Bastia's Vieux Port St Jean Baptiste Cathedral overlooking Bastia's Vieux Port The citadel The citadel