Bonifacio 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Bonifacio Itinerary:

This itinerary assumes you’re arriving and departing from Figari Sud Corse Airport (FIG) in a week. It can be adjusted for longer stays or if you’re starting from a different location.

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive at FIG airport.
    • Transportation: Rent a car at the airport to explore Bonifacio and its surroundings freely.
  • Afternoon: Pick up your rental car and drive to your accommodation in Bonifacio. Check out some charming options:
    • Hotel: La Villa du Sud, Hôtel Santa Teresa, Hôtel Le Marina
    • Activity: Stroll through the charming streets of the old town (La Haute Ville), taking in the historic architecture and stunning views.
    • Dinner: Enjoy a delicious Corsican meal at “Le Bistrot de la Citadelle” for its traditional ambiance, or “Chez Pépé” for fresh seafood.

Day 2:

  • Morning: Explore the picturesque harbor of Bonifacio. Climb down to the water (stairs are steep!) and enjoy a coffee with a view.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach! While you might not think of beaches in Bonifacio, they have some beautiful ones nearby. For your first day, head to “Plage de Sperone” for its calm waters and white sand.
  • Evening: Dine at “La Terrasse” for a casual meal with amazing sunset views.

Day 3:

  • Morning: Hike up to the top of the Citadel for breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor, cliffs, and the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The Citadel is a historic fortress with cobblestone streets and charming shops and cafes.
  • Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at the beach after your hike.

Day 4:

  • Morning: Visit the “Escalier du Roi de Aragon” (Stairway of the King of Aragon) for a glimpse into the island’s history.
  • Afternoon: Explore the narrow streets and alleyways of the old town, admiring the charming architecture and stopping for some shopping.

Day 5:

  • Morning: Take a boat trip to explore the stunning coastline and caves around Bonifacio. The “Sentier des Douaniers” (Customs Officers’ Path) offers scenic coastal walks with opportunities to see the wildlife of the Mediterranean.
  • Lunch: Savor a fresh seafood lunch at a seaside restaurant in the “Sentier des Douaniers”.

Day 6:

  • Morning: Visit the “Falaise de Bonifacio” (Bight of Bonifacio) for a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings. Enjoy the afternoon relaxing on the beach or exploring the nearby shops.
  • Dinner: Try a different restaurant with more modern cuisine, like “Le Bistrot de la Place”.

Day 7:

  • Enjoy the beautiful scenery and sunsets: Take a boat tour to the “Îles Lavezzi”, a stunning archipelago of small islands off the coast.
    • Option: If you prefer to stay on land, visit the “Cap Pertusato” for its picturesque views overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Things to do:

  • Explore the Citadel: Visit this historic fortress and wander through its charming streets, enjoying the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

  • Discover the beaches:

    • Plage de Santa Giulia: This beautiful beach offers crystal-clear water and stunning scenery. Great for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
    • Plage de Figari: A quieter option for a relaxing day by the sea. Perfect for a leisurely swim or stroll.
    • Plage de Piantarella: Known for its picturesque cliffs and crystal-clear water, ideal for cliff diving and snorkeling.

  • Visit the “Escalier du Roi de Aragon” (Bight of the Stairway): Enjoy the beauty of the “Côte de la Lavezzi” while exploring the nearby coastline and beaches.

  • Experience the “Old Town” atmosphere: Take a walk through the historic streets and explore the charming boutiques and restaurants.

  • Discover local history: Visit the “Musée de la Citadelle” (Museum of the Citadel) to learn about the island’s past.

  • Enjoy the view from the “Sentier des Douaniers”: This scenic trail offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and access to beautiful beaches.

  • Explore the “Escalier du Roi d’Aragon”: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the “L’Île de Cavallo” (Cavallo Island) with its picturesque beaches and clear waters.

  • Enjoy a beach day: Bonifacio is known for its dramatic coastline, perfect for swimming, boating, and exploring hidden coves.

Things to eat:

  • Seafood: Bonifacio boasts fresh seafood thanks to its coastal location. Try the local “figatellu” (a type of sausage)**
    • Where to try it:
      • Chez Pépé: A classic Corsican restaurant with a focus on fresh, local seafood.
      • La Table du Gouverneur: Fine dining experience with a stunning view.

Things to know:

  • Currency: Euro (EUR)
  • Language: French is the primary language, but many locals also speak Corsican.
  • Best time to visit: Bonifacio enjoys warm weather from May to September.

Things to know:

  • Bonifacio is a popular tourist destination during these months, so expect crowds and book accommodations in advance.
  • The “Old Town” (Haute Ville) is located on a cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the sea.
  • Consider visiting the “L’Île de Bonifacio” during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) for a more enjoyable experience with fewer crowds.

Things to know:

  • Currency: The currency used in Bonifacio is the Euro (EUR). Most establishments accept credit cards, but it’s always good practice to have some cash on hand.
  • Transportation: You can explore the “old town” on foot, but getting to other parts of Bonifacio and the surrounding areas will require transportation.

Things to know:

  • The island is pedestrian-friendly, with many charming streets and squares to walk through.

  • Language: While French is the official language, you can enjoy a more authentic experience by learning a few basic Corsican phrases.

  • Local Cuisine: Bonifacio’s cuisine revolves around seafood, fresh local produce (particularly figs), cheese, and wine.

Things to know:

  • Embrace the local flavors:

    • Try the “figatellu” (a type of sausage) for a unique culinary experience.
    • Sample “brocciu,” a soft, fresh cheese often served with pasta or in pastries.

  • Explore the “Southern Corsican Cuisine”:

    • Indulge in local cheeses and wines: The “Old Town” is renowned for its delicious cheeses like “Brocciu” (a fresh whey cheese) and its wine production.

Things to do:

  • Explore the “L’Île de la Lavezzi” by boat: Take a ferry or rent a boat to enjoy the stunning scenery of this beautiful island.
  • Visit the “Musée de la Citadelle”: Explore the history of Bonifacio, from its early days as a fishing village to its modern-day charm.

Things to see:**

  • The “Escalier du Roi de Aragon” (Stairway of the King of Aragon) is a historical landmark: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the “Côte de la Lavezzi”, which features beautiful beaches and stunning rock formations.
  • Explore the “Caves de Bonifacio” (Caves of Bonifacio): The “L’Île de la Lavezzi” boasts a network of charming caves and grottos.

Day 1:

  • Travelers are advised to explore the “Old Town” on foot: You can wander through its streets, admire its architecture, and enjoy the local atmosphere.

  • The “Bonifacio” harbor offers stunning views: Take a walk along the waterfront or enjoy a boat trip and explore the natural beauty of Bonifacio’s coastline.

  • Explore the old town (Sentier du Gouverneur): Located on the cliffs, this charming spot is a great place to start your exploration.

  • Enjoy the breathtaking “Escalier du Roi de Aragon”: This scenic staircase will lead you down to breathtaking views of the “Golfe de Santa Giulia”.

Food and Drink:

  • Sample local specialties:

    • Seafood restaurants: Try the “fresh catch of the day” at a restaurant in the “Old Town” with stunning views.
    • Wine tasting: Visit a local vineyard or winery for a wine tasting experience and sample some of the island’s finest wines.

Things to try:

  • Corsican Wine: The “Vin de Corse” is known for its unique flavors due to the local grape varieties and the influence of the sea and mountainous climate on the grapes.
  • Local Cheese: “Brocciu” is a traditional fresh cheese made from whey and enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes.

Cheese you can find:

  • “Brocciu”: This delicious and versatile cheese is perfect for enjoying with a glass of wine or as part of a local cheese platter.
  • **“Canestrato” cheese: ** Another local favorite, “Canestratu” (a type of sheep’s milk cheese), can be sampled at various cheese shops and markets.

Local Cheese Dishes:

  • Brocciu cheesecake: A sweet and savory treat made with the island’s famous “brocciu”.
  • “Figatellu” sandwiches: These are a popular street food option on the “Côte de la Corse”

Things to do:

  • Explore the “Citadelle de Bonifacio”: Walk along the ramparts and enjoy panoramic views of the island.

Enjoy the scenic beauty of the “Escalier du Roi de Aragon”:

  • Enjoy a picnic by the “sea” (or on the beach!)
  • Visit the “Plage de Piantarella”: Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline.
  • Explore the local beaches: Discover the hidden beauty and tranquility of the “Côte de la Corse”.

Enjoy the “Brocciu” cheese: Cows’ milk is used in “Corsican” cuisine, but “brocciu” (a sheep’s milk cheese) is a unique delicacy.