Porto-Vecchio: the complete guide
Located on the south-east coast of Corsica, Porto-Vecchio is a town in Corse-du-Sud and the third largest on the island by population, after Ajaccio and Bastia. It is nicknamed the “salt city”. Its Corsican name, Portivechju, means old port.
Porto-Vecchio at a glance
The town stretches from the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea up to the Ospedale massif. Its history is closely tied to its salt marshes.
Its Genoese citadel, founded in 1539, overlooks the old town, with its narrow streets, granite façades and views over the gulf.
The surrounding area also has a rich prehistoric past: the Torre site and the Castellu d’Araghju, a circular fortress from the Torrean period, offer a fine viewpoint over the region.
Beaches around Porto-Vecchio
Palombaggia
Probably the best known, Palombaggia is a stretch of fine sand lined with umbrella pines, with red rocks scattered along the shore. It has car parks and beach restaurants.
Santa Giulia
About ten minutes away by car, Santa Giulia is popular with families for its shallow lagoon and water sports.
Cala Rossa
Slightly less busy, Cala Rossa has a calmer atmosphere and lovely views over the gulf.
Pinarello, Rondinara and Petit Sperone
Pinarello: a seaside village with a pine forest and clear, shallow water.
Rondinara: famous for its circular, shell-shaped bay.
Petit Sperone: reached on foot from Piantarella, further south.
Things to do in Porto-Vecchio
Stroll through the old town
Wander the lanes of the citadel up to the Place de la République and its café terraces. The small shops sell Corsican produce: charcuterie, cheese, jams and honey.
Take a boat trip
Excursions head out to the Cerbicale Islands or the Lavezzi Islands, off Bonifacio, for a day of swimming and snorkelling.
Hike in the mountains
About 30 minutes away by car, the Ospedale forest and its lake offer a cool break, with the Piscia di Ghjaddu waterfall. Further on, the Bavella pass and its rocky needles are the starting point for the hike to the Trou de la Bombe, a large circular opening in the rock.
Visit Bonifacio
Bonifacio, perched on its limestone cliffs, is about a 30-minute drive away.
Water sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and diving are all popular in the waters of Santa Giulia and around the Cerbicale Islands.
Getting there and getting around
By air
Figari – Sud Corse airport is about 25 km away, around thirty minutes by road. It has flights from Paris, Marseille, Nice or Lyon, depending on the season.
By sea
Porto-Vecchio’s port is served from Marseille by La Méridionale and from Toulon by Corsica Ferries. Check the timetables, which change with the season.
Getting around
A car is the most practical option. Shuttle buses run in summer: ask at the town hall or the tourist office. In town, the area around the citadel gets very busy in summer.
Where to stay
You can choose between the old town, close to the restaurants, the seafront, and campsites or holiday rentals on the outskirts. In July and August, it is best to book several months ahead.
When to visit Porto-Vecchio
- May, June and September: the best times, with a pleasant sea and fewer crowds.
- July and August: peak season, lively, with very busy beaches.
- October to April: a quieter town, with some beach establishments closed.
The climate is Mediterranean: hot, dry summers and mild winters, with more rain in autumn.
Porto-Vecchio FAQ
Which are the most beautiful beaches?
Palombaggia, Santa Giulia, Cala Rossa and Rondinara are the best known.
Can you take boat trips?
Yes, in particular to the Lavezzi and Cerbicale Islands.
Which hikes are worth it?
The Ospedale forest and the Piscia di Ghjaddu waterfall, as well as the Trou de la Bombe from the Bavella pass.
What is there to see apart from the beaches?
The Genoese citadel, the Castellu d’Araghju and the Levie museum.
Conclusion
Porto-Vecchio lets you combine beaches, mountains and heritage in a single stay. To plan more trips, see our guide to the regions of France.
To find out more about Porto-Vecchio, visit the tourist office website.
