Ajaccio Cruise Port Guide Info
Ajaccio is the capital of Corsica - one of the 18 regions of France and the fourth-largest island in the Mediterranean, located southeast of the French mainland. Although the town of Ajaccio is relatively small, the cruise port has a great infrastructure and can accommodate several cruise ships and ferry boats.
The cruise ships are docked in the Gulf of Ajaccio, at Quai L’Herminier, located between a beautiful marina and a small fishing port in the southern part.
The town center and the main city highlights are located within a walking distance from the cruise terminal: Maison Bonaparte, the native house of the world-famous French military leader is situated a 15-minute walk from the pier. The house has been restored and today serves as a national museum that you can tour with an audio-guide and learn about the life of Napoleon Bonaparte and French history.
A few minutes walk from there, you can visit the Citadelle d’Ajaccio, the 15th-century fortress where you can take a nice stroll while enjoying the views of the bay, or the Cathedral of Ajaccio (Cathedral of the Assumption of Saint Mary), the 16th-century cathedral built in the baroque style, known for the fact that Napoleon was baptized there in 1771.
If you want to explore the city center, head over to Place de Gaulle, the main square located on an elevated place offering amazing views of the bay. It features the monumental statue of Napoleon and his four brothers, surrounded by palm trees and a nice park area, where you can find numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, and shops.
Here you can enjoy the walk along the main street, Cours Napoleon, or visit a nearby Fesch Museum, housed in a palace and founded by Cardinal Fesch - Napoleon’s uncle.
The museum has a very nice location and boasts an impressive collection of European art featuring Botticelli and old masters – for art lovers, this is a must-see place!
Last but not least, if you are a beach person, head over to Plage Saint-Francois, located in the vicinity of the main historical landmarks, a 20-minute walk from the cruise terminal. The beach is backed up by a beautiful promenade, the casino, and a multitude of bakeries, shops, and patisseries, where you can enjoy authentic French delicacies.
Due to the historical circumstances, Ajaccio features a mixture of French and Italian influences, which you’ll notice while strolling the streets of the town. The ambiance of the town and the numerous historical and natural treasures of the island, make it a very popular place for cruise ship passengers and tourists world-wide.