Porto Vecchio: All destinations, advice & information for your holidays!
Porto Vecchio in the southeast of the French island of Corsica is the third largest city on the island and boasts numerous historical sights and cultural highlights. In the immediate vicinity, there are many dream beaches with turquoise blue water and radiant white sand. The picturesque bays invite you to swim, snorkel, and windsurf.
Table of contents
Porto Vecchio - Must-see attractions
Porto Vecchio Citadel
The citadel of Porto-Vecchio is a Genoese fortress from the 16th century. It is largely still preserved. The former city gate Porte Genoise remains one of the most beautiful entrances to the old town. It is worth visiting the citadel as part of a guided tour and delving deep into the exciting history of the port city. Also, don't miss the fantastic view from the fortress over the harbor.
Porto Vecchio Harbor
Porto Vecchio - in German "old harbor" - is a popular port city in the south of the French island of Corsica. Among the many historical attractions that make up its charm is the pretty harbor, which is now the third largest on the entire island. Today, a large number of yachts, motorboats, and sailboats are moored in Porto Vecchio. In addition, alongside cruise ships, mainly ferries regularly dock here. Thus, the beautiful harbor is the first impression of Corsica for many tourists.
Santa Giulia Beach
The dream beach is located on the popular French island of Corsica, about 9 km south of the city of Porto-Vecchio. The water here is both gentle and shallow, making it a bathing paradise even for families. In the Bay of Santa Giulia, there is plenty of infrastructure such as several restaurants, a supermarket, and many great activities like water skiing, pedal boating, or diving. Additionally, there are sailing courses and boat tours to great places for swimming and snorkeling.
Palombaggia Beach
In the southeast of the French Mediterranean island of Corsica lies the paradisiacal dream beach Palombaggia, about 10 km from the town of Porto Vecchio. The water is clear and calm, and besides swimming, it is also particularly suitable for snorkeling. The water shimmers here in many different shades depending on the light, such as turquoise, dark blue, red, orange, or violet. In addition, there are green pines and red rocks. This beautiful spectacle can be observed especially in the early morning or late afternoon.
The Hospital
In Corsica, L'Ospédale is perfect for taking a deep breath. In the area of the small village about 850 meters above sea level, the ancient Romans already enjoyed the high-altitude air and built a hospital for their troops, which gave L'Ospédale its name. The adjacent forest area Forêt de l’Ospédale with its black pines, holm oaks, and ferns is a rocky terrain for hiking and mountain biking. Take a tour to the roaring waterfall Piscia di Gallo. At the reservoir of L'Ospédale, you will experience a magical silence.
Pointe de la Chiappa
The peninsula near Porto-Vecchio extends several kilometers into the open sea and delights you with its pristine nature. Hike on the wooded heights and enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the untouched coast from there. With the right footwear and suitable equipment, you can also descend from the cliffs at Pointe de la Chiappa to the Mediterranean Sea. Especially in the warm summer months, a swim is recommended for cooling off.
Porto Vecchio - Secret spots
Lake of the Ospedale
Porto-Vecchio harbors a hidden treasure, the Ospedale Lake. This picturesque lake, surrounded by majestic mountains and dense forests, offers a breathtaking view. A fascinating fact is that the lake is situated at an altitude of almost 1000 meters, making it one of the highest lakes in Corsica.
Pinarello Beach
Pinarello Beach is a jewel in Porto-Vecchio. This stunning beach is known for its crystal-clear water and fine white sand. A fascinating fact is that Pinarello Beach is surrounded by an impressive pine forest, giving it a unique and unparalleled atmosphere. It is a paradise waiting to be discovered.
Prehistoric Castle Tappa
Hidden near Porto-Vecchio lies the prehistoric Tappa castle, a true highlight. This archaeological marvel, dating back to 2000 BC, offers a breathtaking view of the sea. It is less known that it was once a strategic observation point for the indigenous people of Corsica.
Purcaraccia Waterfalls
The waterfalls of Purcaraccia near Porto-Vecchio are an undiscovered paradise. Located amidst the Corsican mountains, they offer a breathtaking backdrop. A fascinating fact is that these waterfalls consist of natural glacier basins, shaped over millennia by flowing water. A must for nature lovers and adventurers.
Porto Vecchio - In 3 days
Day 1
First, take a leisurely stroll through the charming old town. Wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved historic buildings and the impressive citadel. Stop at one of the many small shops to discover local products such as Corsican specialties, handmade souvenirs, and crafts. After exploring the old town, you can settle down in one of the cozy cafés and enjoy a coffee or a refreshing drink while watching the hustle and bustle of the city. Then continue to the nearby beach, where you can spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming. The fine sand and crystal-clear water invite you to relax and unwind. For dinner, visit a traditional Corsican restaurant to taste the delicious local cuisine. Enjoy fresh seafood, spicy sausages, and aromatic cheeses, accompanied by a glass of Corsican wine. End the day with a leisurely walk along the harbor promenade and enjoy the view of the illuminated boats and the gentle sound of the sea.
Day 2
Today, you will visit the breathtaking nature of the surroundings. Visit the nearby nature reserve, where you can discover the diverse flora and fauna of Corsica on well-marked hiking trails. Enjoy the fresh air and the spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the sea. After an active morning in nature, return to the city and visit the Archaeological Museum to learn more about the rich history and culture of the region. The fascinating exhibitions offer a deep insight into the past of Corsica and the development of Porto Vecchio. In the afternoon, you can recharge in one of the charming bistros and try local specialties such as Corsican tapas or fresh salads. Afterwards, a visit to the nearby wineries is recommended, where you can participate in a wine tasting and enjoy the fine wines of the region. End the day with a relaxed dinner in one of the restaurants overlooking the sea and reflect on the experiences of the day.
Day 3
On the third day in Porto Vecchio, start with a relaxed breakfast in one of the cozy cafes in the old town. Enjoy fresh croissants and aromatic coffee while watching the morning hustle and bustle. After breakfast, head to one of the region's stunning beaches. Spend the morning swimming in the crystal-clear water, relaxing in the sun, or trying water sports like snorkeling or stand-up paddling. The picturesque bays and turquoise sea offer perfect conditions for a relaxing beach day. In the afternoon, return to the city and stroll through the charming streets of Porto Vecchio. Discover small boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops where you can find unique keepsakes. To conclude your stay, enjoy a delicious dinner in one of the restaurants with traditional Corsican cuisine. Indulge in the island's flavors and specialties and enjoy the last evening in this enchanting city.
Porto Vecchio - Climate
Porto Vecchio has a Mediterranean, warm-temperate climate. This means average temperatures of about 23 °C in summer and 6 °C in winter. Additionally, there are very few rainy days in summer. The best time to travel to enjoy the paradisiacal sea is roughly between May and October. The summer months of June, July, and August, with temperatures up to 29 °C and almost no rain, are particularly recommended. In May and September, temperatures are sometimes around 20 °C, and precipitation is somewhat higher. However, the water temperature is still suitable for swimming.