Things To Do
in Bastia
Bastia is a picturesque port city located on the eastern coast of the French island of Corsica. With its charming old town and historic buildings, Bastia offers a blend of French and Italian influences. The city is known for its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning Mediterranean views.
Visitors can explore the narrow cobblestone streets, visit local markets, and relax on the beautiful nearby beaches.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaĂźt" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- đ Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- đœïž Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- â Coffee: $2 - $5
- đ Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- đ Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- đïžââïž Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the old town, admiring the colorful old buildings and charming streets. Donât miss visiting the Place Saint-Nicolas for a lovely view of the harbor.
After lunch at a local cafĂ©, head to the Terra Nova Citadel for panoramic views of the city and sea. Explore the historical exhibits and learn about Bastiaâs fascinating history.
Enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood and local specialties. End the evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the sunset.
Spend a relaxing morning at the nearby beaches like Arinella or Lido de la Marana. Take a swim in the crystal-clear waters or sunbathe on the golden sands.
Grab a beachside lunch before trying water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. Explore the beachside shops and vendors for local crafts.
Unwind with a beach picnic as the sun sets, enjoying the stunning views. Head back to Bastia for gelato at a local shop to cap off your perfect beach day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful Mediterranean coastline with stunning beaches
- Rich history and cultural heritage
- Proximity to both mountains and sea, offering diverse outdoor activities
- Vibrant local markets and delicious Corsican cuisine
- Mild climate, making it an attractive destination year-round
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Higher cost of living relative to some other regions in France
- Tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak seasons
- Job opportunities may be limited, especially for non-seasonal work
- Infrastructure may not be as developed as in mainland France
Best Activities in Bastia
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Bastia offers various scenic hiking trails in the nearby mountains with beautiful panoramic views.
Enjoy water sports, sunbathing, or swimming at the popular Plage de l'Arinella beach in Bastia.
Stroll through the historic streets of Bastiaâs old town and visit the 16th-century citadel for cultural exploration and lovely views.
Places to Visit in Bastia
Visit one of these nice places.
The citadel offers panoramic views of Bastia and the surrounding area, making it a great location for photography and sightseeing.
The old port provides stunning waterfront views and picturesque scenes of the harbor, boats, and city skyline, perfect for photo opportunities.
This garden features lovely pathways and greenery, offering peaceful and scenic views of the city and coastline, ideal for capturing moments in nature.
Food in Bastia
Bastia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fresh cheese made from goat or sheep milk, used in various dishes like the Brocciu omelette or in desserts. Can be found at local markets and in restaurants such as Chez Vincent.
Must-Try!
A folded pizza stuffed with cheese, ham, and herbs, a nod to the Italian influence in Bastia's cuisine. Available at Pizzeria La Vela and La Ruche.
A rich and tender wild boar stew cooked with red wine, herbs, and vegetables, served in traditional Corsican restaurants like L'Auberge du PĂ©lican.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the city's oldest markets where visitors can find local produce, cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly caught seafood. Ideal for trying local specialties and engaging with the vibrant food culture.
A waterfront promenade lined with food stalls offering freshly grilled fish, seafood platters, and local snacks like Panzarotti and Beignets de Brocciu.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bastia, it's important to greet others with a handshake and to use formal titles such as 'Monsieur' or 'Madame' when meeting someone for the first time.
Meal times are an important part of the day in Bastia, and it's customary to arrive on time and to linger over meals, enjoying food and conversation. It's also polite to wait until the host has begun eating before you start your meal.
Respect for local customs and traditions is important in Bastia. It's polite to show interest in the local culture and to avoid sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless brought up by your host.
Safety
Tipping in Bastia
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bastia, France, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A service charge is usually included in the bill at restaurants and cafes, but an additional 5-10% tip is common for exceptional service.
Payment in Bastia, France is predominantly done using cash, but credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and to avoid any issues with card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time for mild weather and blooming flowers. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Peak tourist season with warm weather, crowded beaches, and vibrant festivals. Perfect for beach vacations and water activities.
Mild weather, fewer crowds, and wine harvest season. Great for wine tasting and sightseeing with comfortable temperatures.
Quiet and chilly season with occasional rain. Perfect for discovering local cuisine, visiting museums, and enjoying Christmas markets.
Bastia at Night
Hiking in Bastia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain offering stunning panoramic views, Monte Stello is a popular hike for those looking to experience the natural beauty of Corsica.
This scenic peninsula features multiple hiking trails along its rugged coastline, providing breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea.
A coastal trail that winds through the picturesque landscape of the Cap Corse, ideal for those looking for a mix of beach and mountain scenery.
Known for its striking rock formations, this area has several trails suitable for various skill levels and offers incredible views of the surrounding region.
Nestled in the heart of Corsica, this hiking area provides access to lush forest trails and the grandeur of mountain scenery.
A beautiful waterfall hike that features lush vegetation and a refreshing swimming spot, perfect for a hot day.
Aiports
How to reach Bastia by plane.
The main international airport serving Bastia, located approximately 20 km from the city center.
Located around 120 km southwest of Bastia, this is the second largest airport on the island of Corsica.
Located approximately 150 km south of Bastia, this airport serves the south of Corsica.
Situated around 90 km northwest of Bastia, this airport serves the Calvi region and offers some international flights.
Another reference name for Bastia-Poretta Airport, emphasizing its role as a significant entry point for the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Bastia are French citizens, predominantly of Mediterranean descent.
A significant demographic group in Bastia comprises Corsican residents who may identify with the local culture and language.
There is a notable presence of immigrants from North African countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
Due to its geographical proximity, there is a community of Italian expatriates in Bastia.
Bastia also hosts a smaller number of residents from other European countries, including Spain and Portugal.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Bastia, home to the SC Bastia football club, which has a passionate fan base and competes in domestic leagues.
Rugby is also popular in Bastia, with local clubs participating in regional competitions, promoting teamwork and community spirit.
Cycling enjoys popularity in Bastia, with scenic routes attracting both competitive cyclists and leisure riders, especially given the hilly terrain.
Athletics has a strong following in Bastia, with various events and clubs encouraging participation in running, jumping, and throwing disciplines.
Given Bastia's coastal location, water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular activities, enjoyed by both locals and tourists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bastia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bastia provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, from fresh salads and vegetable tarts to flavorful pasta and risotto. Le Vieux Borgo and U Santa Maria are great options.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Il Galeone and gluten-free pasta at Vinu Square.