More about Corsica (Ajaccio)
Why go to Corsica (Ajaccio)?
Outside the city, Corsica offers ample opportunities for adventure such as hiking and kayaking
Those not keen on "getting lost" in the streets might be a bit underwhelmed
Despite its small size, Corsica is full of historic sites, trendy eateries, unique shops and beaches
Corsica (Ajaccio) Cruise Port Facilities?
Unless you have time to hire a car or take a ferry along the coast (not recommended on a short cruise ship call), you don't need to hang around the Gare Maritime. Instead, head left outside the tender pier and keep going straight along the road to get to the heart of Ajaccio's action: the pretty market square, the hotel de ville (town hall), the lovely Genovese old town and the best shops.
Realistically, it's hard to see much outside of Ajaccio with only a few hours to spend ashore, as the spectacularly craggy and densely forested Corsican interior is not easy to negotiate. If you do decide to venture further afield on your own, allow plenty of time to get back before your ship sails.
Good to Know?
Heavy traffic! The French will not be parted from their cars, and the Corsicans have obviously been infected by their passion. Given that Corsica is one of the most under-populated islands in the Mediterranean, the level of traffic in Ajaccio defies belief.
Getting Around?
By Taxi: Taxis are metered, but you can agree on a set price with the driver if you want to hire him or her for a certain length of time. The best way to do this is to walk to the tourist office (just a few minutes from the port) and have them call you a cab; they can make sure you get a fair price and help you communicate with the driver, who typically won't speak English.
By Bus: Ajaccio is walkable enough that most cruise passengers likely won't need to use the local bus service, but it does provide affordable transit to the beaches west of the city. Catch the no. 5 line from Place de Gaulle.
By Rental Car: The nearest rental agency to the cruise port is about a five-minute walk away at the Ajaccio Hotel Kalliste (51 Cours Napoleon; 33 4 95 51 61 81; open daily).
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency in Corsica is the Euro, and credit cards are widely accepted. You can check currency conversion rates at www.oanda.com or www.xe.com.
You'll find plenty of banks in town. There are several on or around Place Foch, including Credit Agricole and LCL. Banks are typically only open on weekdays, but their ATMs are accessible 24 hours a day.
Language?
French is the official language of Corsica, but there is a local dialect -- called Corsu -- which sounds rather similar to Italian (hardly surprising, given the island's Genovese heritage). Locals will speak some English in Ajaccio but less in the more rustic, outlying villages.
Where You're Docked?
Smaller ships dock right next to the Gare Maritime, while others will anchor and tender passengers to a nearby location. This large building offers little reason to linger; aside from toilets, snack machines and the booking desks for local ferry companies, there's not much of interest. On weekend mornings, the small Forain Market sets up on the waterfront outside the port, offering bags, belts, clothing and other items.
