Port Of Call Ajaccio, Corsica

Ajaccio Is a city on the French Tyrrhenian Sea Island Of Corsica in the Mediterranean. Ajaccio has a lot to offer from great beaches to fine dining and a good helping of history. It is the ancestral home of Napoleon Bonaparte, and where he returned when he was sent into exile.Napoleon is a local hero where he is celebrated to this day.

Where Your Ship Docks

Ajaccio has opened a new terminal and pier right in the center of the city with a maned visitor information booth and good public facilities.

Wheelchair Accessibility

Disembarking – This port has a developed cruise ship pier adjacent to the terminal but the ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway design to reach the pier. Ships disembark right into downtown, but passengers using wheelchairs may have a moderate ramp incline to deal with. The city of Ajaccio has an average wheelchair infrastructure typical of European cities. The areas above the port have moderate inclines in sidewalks. Intersection crosswalks may have curbs or other wheelchair obstacles.

Transportation

Ajaccio isn’t particularly large and is easy to walk around in. Shopping, attractions and good beaches are all relatively near. Taxis are available xxxx.

Currency

This is a French port and the Euro is the local currency. You may find that you’ll need some Euros for incidental expenses but credit cards are welcome and there are numerous ATMs available.

Tipping

Corsica follows a general tipping culture similar to mainland France. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charges are included in your bill, rounding up or leaving small change is customary. In restaurants, leaving between 5-10% of the bill is a common practice if you are satisfied with the service. Tipping tour guides is usually based on the tour cost with a few dollars being a minimum. For taxi drivers or service staff, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip is often sufficient.

Attractions

Ajaccio Market and Place Campinchi – This recently opened food hall is cold meats, wines, cheeses, pastries and cakes. Every day of the year you’ll find delicious dishes at the delicatessen and exceptional products on the colourful market stalls. The well-stocked fishmonger’s stall offers a fresh catch every day. Head to the Place Campinchi next to the market, where you can get a superb view of the Napoleonic quays.

National Museum: Maison Bonaparte – As you stroll the streets of the city, you can’t help but notice that many monuments and streets are dedicated to the Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. And it’s for good reason because he was born here in Ajaccio on August 15, 1769, and spent part of his childhood here. His birthplace is now a listed historic monument and national museum. Inside visit rooms that speak of the past, including a living room, bedroom and dining room which feature period furniture. This fun and informative visit is perfect for children.

San Roccu Cathedral – The 19th century neoclassical style cathedral is located on one of the main arteries of the city. With its recently renovated roof and bell tower, it is illuminated at night and sparkles with a thousand lights.

Place du Cassone by the Ajaccians, this is where a child who would become an Emperor once played. The imposing statue of Napoleon on the square is a replica of the one at the Invalides in Paris. At his feet, there is a list of his victories and achievements.

Miollis Citadel – Long occupied by the army, the Citadel of Ajaccio, built in 1492, was ceded to the city of Ajaccio in 2019. For the first time in five centuries, it now welcomes civilians. Today it’s a creative residence and cultural venue, hosting artists, events, sound and light shows and exhibitions. Follow us to experience the sights of the Citadel.