Bastia Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Locality

Facts and practical information

Nestled on the northeastern coast of the stunning island of Corsica, Bastia is a charming commune that offers visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. As the second-largest city in Corsica, Bastia is a popular destination for those seeking a unique and authentic experience.

Start your exploration of Bastia by taking a stroll along its picturesque waterfront. The Old Port, known as Vieux Port, is a bustling hub of activity, with colorful fishing boats bobbing in the cerulean waters. Stop by one of the charming cafés or bars that line the promenade and indulge in some people-watching while sipping on a refreshing Corsican wine or a local beer.

Make your way through the narrow streets of the historic Old Town, known as Terra Vecchia, and discover its hidden treasures. Admire the well-preserved Genoese architecture and soak in the relaxed atmosphere as you wander past charming buildings adorned with colorful shutters. Don't miss the iconic Saint-Nicolas Square, where you can admire the majestic Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church and enjoy the lively ambiance of the local market.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Citadel of Bastia is a must. Perched on a rocky hill overlooking the city, this impressive fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Explore its ancient walls and learn about the city's fascinating past, from its Genoese origins to its role as a strategic military stronghold.

Nature lovers will be enchanted by the breathtaking beauty of the nearby Cap Corse peninsula. Take a scenic drive along winding coastal roads, passing charming fishing villages and rugged cliffs. Stop at one of the many idyllic beaches along the way and bask in the Mediterranean sun, or embark on a leisurely hike to discover hidden coves and panoramic viewpoints.

In the evening, immerse yourself in Bastia's vibrant nightlife. The city comes alive with bustling bars, lively music venues, and charming restaurants serving delicious Corsican cuisine. Indulge in local specialties such as wild boar stew, fresh seafood, and the famous Corsican charcuterie, accompanied by a glass of the region's renowned wines.

Alternative names: Population: 41 thous. (2019)Area: 7.48 mi²Elevation: 56 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 42°41'51"N, 9°27'3"E

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CorsicaFrance

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Bastia Top Attractions

Bastia Attractions - What to See and Explore

Bastia offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Bastia, Beth Meir Synagogue, Bastia Cathedral, Église Sainte-Croix de Bastia. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Church
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Bastia
Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Bastia is a church in Bastia, Haute-Corse, Corsica. The building was classified as a Historic Monument in 2000.
Synagogue
Beth Meir Synagogue
Beth Meir Synagogue of Bastia is a Jewish Synagogue located at 3 Rue du Castagno in Bastia, on the island of Corsica. It is an Orthodox synagogue and a member of the Israelite Central Consistory of France.
Church
Bastia Cathedral
Bastia Cathedral is a former Roman Catholic cathedral in Bastia on the island of Corsica. It has been listed since 2000 as a monument historique by the French Ministry of Culture.

Church • Sacred and religious sites
Église Sainte-Croix de Bastia
Église Sainte-Croix de Bastia is a Catholic church in Bastia, Haute-Corse, Corsica. The building was classified as a Historic Monument in 1931. The church is located in the citadel of Bastia, in the historic center of the city, next to the Church of the Assumption of St. Mary.
Area
Ville-di-Pietrabugno
Ville-di-Pietrabugno is a commune in the Haute-Corse department of France on the island of Corsica.
42°41'39"N • 9°27'5"E
Jardin Romieu
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42°42'3"N • 9°27'1"E
Canton of Bastia-5
The Canton of Bastia-5, also known as Lupino or Lupinu, is a former canton of the arrondissement of Bastia, in the department of Haute-Corse, Corsica France. It had 8,144 inhabitants. It was disbanded following the French canton reorganisation which came into effect in March 2015. It comprised part of the commune of Bastia.

Day trips

Bastia – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Bastia, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Moulin Mattei (Centuri), Calvi Cathedral (Calvi), Lac de Melo (Parc naturel régional de Corse).

20 milesN
Observation decks and towers, Windmill
Moulin Mattei, Centuri
Perched on the rugged hills of the Cap Corse in the commune of Ersa, France, Moulin Mattei beckons travelers with its historical charm and stunning vistas. This restored windmill, a heritage preservation site, is an emblematic landmark of the region, offering visitors...
36 milesW
Church
Calvi Cathedral, Calvi
Calvi Cathedral is a former Roman Catholic church located in Calvi on the island of Corsica, France. It was the episcopal seat of the Bishop of Sagona, which in 1801 was succeeded by the Bishopric of Ajaccio. The cathedral is a national monument.
40 milesSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Lac de Melo, Parc naturel régional de Corse
Lac de Melu is a lake in Corsica, France. At an elevation of 1,710 metres, its surface area is 0.065 square kilometres. The lake is the source of the Restonica River. It is close to Lac de Capitellu, in the commune of Corte.
40 milesSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Lac de Nino, Parc naturel régional de Corse
Lac de Nino is a lake in Haute-Corse, France. At an elevation of 1743 m, its surface area is 0.065 km². The lake is on the Tavignano river near to its source below the 1,883 metres Bocca a Reta.
40 milesSW
Nature, Natural attraction, Lake
Lac de Capitellu, Corte
Lac de Capitellu is a lake in Haute-Corse, France. At an elevation of 1930 m, its surface area is 0.055 km². It is close to Lac de Melu, in the commune of Corte.

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Best Time To Visit Bastia

Learn when is the best time to travel to Bastia weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February, March and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in July. Most of it rains in October.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Bastia?

The top attractions to visit in Bastia are:

What is the best time to visit Bastia?

June, July and August are the busiest months in this location. Many people also choose to visit in September. The highest air temperature is in June, July and August. While the coldest is in January, February, March and December.