Bonifacio Travel Guide: 15 Best Things to Do & See in the Cliffside Fortress Town

Cliffside setting at Corsica’s southern tip

If you’re wondering what to do in Bonifacio, you’re in for a treat.

The dramatic cliffs, historic charm and vibrant waterfront make it a perfect spot for a short getaway or as a base for exploring southern Corsica.

We spent two nights in Bonifacio at the end of May, giving us plenty of time to wander the narrow streets of the old town, unwind on nearby beaches and soak up the lively atmosphere around the marina (+ enjoy a gelato or two).

While it’s possible to see the highlights in less time, we appreciated the chance to explore everything at a relaxed pace, especially with a toddler in tow and Victoria being six months pregnant.

In this travel guide, we’ll take you through what to see in Bonifacio, the best areas and hotels, how to get there and around, the best time to visit, as well as our top tips for making the most of your stay.

Where to stay in Bonifacio:

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• Value for money: Colomba Hôtel Centre-Ville Historique – Family-run hotel with uniquely decorated rooms in a 14th-century building near King of Aragon’s Staircase.
• Value for money: Santateresa – Modern 3‑star clifftop hotel with sea views and a quiet location at the edge of the old town.
• Value for money: Best Western Hôtel du Roy d’Aragon – 3-star hotel on the harbour with air-conditioned rooms, a seaside terrace and complimentary access to nearby parking.
• Luxury: Hotel Spa Genovese – Charming 4-star boutique hotel with a pool, spa and harbour views set within the old town walls.
• Luxury: Hôtel Cala di Greco – A stylish 4-star boutique retreat a 5-minute drive from the harbour, with cliffside infinity pools, private patios or pools in many suites and incredible views.

Search for the best hotels in Bonifacio here.

Why visit Bonifacio

There are plenty of good reasons to visit Bonifacio if you’re heading to Corsica.

The old town, with its maze of narrow alleys and stone buildings, is full of character and history – and it offers some of the most impressive views on the island.

From walking the cliffside paths and exploring centuries-old fortifications to eating gelato by the marina and going on a boat tour, there’s no shortage of things to do in Bonifacio.

And then there are the beaches! You’ll find many beautiful coves nearby, some only accessible by foot or boat, others just a short drive from town.

We hope our guide to Bonifacio will convince you to put the town on your Corsica itinerary!

Where is Bonifacio?

Bonifacio sits dramatically on the southern tip of Corsica, balanced atop white limestone cliffs that drop straight into the Mediterranean Sea.

It’s directly north of the Italian island of Sardinia, and on a clear day, you can see across the Strait of Bonifacio to the northern coast of Sardinia.

Bonifacio is part of the Corse-du-Sud department and lies roughly 22 kilometres (~ 13.7 miles) from Figari-Sud-Corse Airport.

The town itself is split between the cliffside old town, known for its medieval architecture and sea views, and the lower marina area, where boats depart for beaches, caves and neighbouring islands.

Best things to do and see in Bonifacio

With its cliffside setting, historic old town and easy access to beaches and boat trips, Bonifacio is packed with experiences worth seeking out.

Whether you’re in town for a day or a week, here are some of the best things to do and see in Bonifacio.

1. Bonifacio Old Town – Cobbled streets, medieval buildings and a hilltop citadel
2. Bonifacio cliff views – Panoramic coastal viewpoints
3. King of Aragon’s Staircase – Steep, historic steps carved into the cliffs
4. Bonifacio harbour – Waterfront cafés, boats and vacation vibes
5. Lavezzi Islands boat trip – Clear water and rocky coves in a nature reserve
6. Beaches near Bonifacio – Some of the best beaches in Corsica
7. Bastion de l’Étendard – Historic fort with a small museum and views
8. Église Sainte-Marie-Majeure – Romanesque church with an arched entrance
9. Église Saint-Dominique – Gothic church
10. Cimetière Marin de Bonifacio – Peaceful cemetery with a sea view
11. Viewpoint near the Marine Cemetery – Quiet part of the old defences with wide sea views
12. Le Gouvernail de la Corse – Military bunker carved into the rock
13. Capo Pertusato – Views over cliffs and Bonifacio in the distance
14. Hiking to Phare de la Madonetta – Coastal trail with lighthouse views
15. Day trips from Bonifacio – Easy access to southern Corsica highlights

Map of the best things to do and see in Bonifacio

1. Bonifacio Old Town – Cobbled streets, medieval buildings and a hilltop citadel

If you’re wondering what to see in Bonifacio, start at the top: the clifftop citadel offers some of the most striking views on the island.

Bonifacio’s old town sits high above the marina, built right into the limestone cliffs on Corsica’s southern tip.

It’s not the easiest place to reach – you’ll either need to walk up from the harbour or park outside and wander in on foot.

We walked up from the harbour, and while we didn’t find the incline too steep, it was definitely a challenge with a stroller.

It was well worth the effort, though, as some of the best things to see in Bonifacio are found in these narrow lanes.

The old town is really charming, with a network of cobbled streets, medieval buildings and little squares.

2. Bonifacio cliff views – Panoramic coastal viewpoints

One of the best things to do in Bonifacio is simply to walk, and the cliffside paths around the town offer some of the most breathtaking views in Corsica.

We accessed the old town from the harbour via a steep pedestrian road.

It’s a bit of a climb (particularly in the heat), but the reward at the top is worth it: the first thing that greeted us was the viewpoint known as Vue sur la Sardaigne on Google Maps.

As the name suggests, you can see all the way across the Strait of Bonifacio to the coast of Sardinia.

We actually stayed in Santa Teresa Gallura for 10 days back in 2022, so it felt special to spot it from the Corsican side.

From that viewpoint, you can turn left (east, away from the old town) and follow a series of limestone paths that wind along the edge of the cliffs.

It’s a mix of cobbled and gravel tracks, with stunning views back towards Bonifacio’s old town, sitting high above the sea on the cliffs. The route isn’t difficult, but it’s not stroller-friendly either, so we unfortunately had to skip it this time.

Inside the old town itself, you can also find cliffside walks with sea views, lookout points and glimpses of both Sardinia and the rugged southern Corsican coastline.

Another great spot is at the western edge of the citadel near the cemetery – but more on that later in this Bonifacio travel guide.

On our second day, we enjoyed the scenic stops on the road towards Plage de Saint Antoine. Several pull-offs offer panoramic views back towards Bonifacio and its dramatic setting, but you’ll need a car to get to those.

3. King of Aragon’s Staircase – Steep, historic steps carved into the cliffs

Naturally, we can’t talk about cliffside views in Bonifacio without including the King of Aragon’s Staircase – or Escalier du Roi d’Aragon, as it’s called in French.

The staircase is carved straight into the limestone cliff, with 189 steep steps leading down to the sea.

According to legend, it was built overnight by the troops of the King of Aragon during an invasion in the 15th century, though it was probably created by monks long before that.

Either way, it’s one of the most unique things to see in Bonifacio.

The steps are steep and uneven (some reach high up the shin bone), and parts of the path have a low overhang, so you’re given a helmet when you enter.

The price was 5 euros per adult (~ 5.7 USD) when we visited, and tickets are sold at the entrance.

It’s not recommended if you’re uneasy with heights, but the views down the coast and out to sea are worth it.

4. Bonifacio harbour – Waterfront cafés, boats and vacation vibes

Bonifacio harbour is the lively heart of the town’s waterfront, where colourful boats bob gently in the water and cafés spill out onto the quayside.

We stopped for lunch at Les Amis by the water and had a delicious vegan pizza and a falafel sandwich.

Whether you’re after a quick bite or a longer sit-down, the harbour has plenty of options to suit every taste (including several gelato shops!).

It’s also a great place to soak up the holiday atmosphere, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy some fresh sea air.

If you’re taking a boat trip around Bonifacio’s stunning coastline and sea caves, it’s very likely to depart from here.

5. Lavezzi Islands boat trip – Clear water and rocky coves in a nature reserve

A boat trip to the Lavezzi Islands is one of the most popular things to do in Bonifacio.

The small archipelago lies just south of Corsica inside a protected nature reserve with rocky coves and hidden beaches.

The boat ride itself offers stunning views of the limestone cliffs. On most tours, you can swim in crystal-clear water, snorkel with colourful marine life or simply relax on the rugged shore.

With no cars or buildings, the islands look wonderfully untouched.

Bonifacio harbour is the departure point for numerous tours, with options varying in boat type, trip length and itinerary.

See some of the tours below.

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6. Beaches near Bonifacio – Some of the best beaches in Corsica

One of the perks of staying in Bonifacio is how close you are to some of southern Corsica’s most beautiful beaches.

You don’t have to drive far before the white cliffs give way to bays with soft sand and ridiculously clear water – sometimes with Sardinia in view across the strait.

We tried a few different spots during our stay:

Plage de Saint-Antoine

Reached by a scenic drive past Capo Pertusato, this beach sits at the base of tall limestone cliffs. The last part of the walk down takes almost 30 minutes, so bring decent shoes.

It was very windy on our visit, but the views back towards Bonifacio along the way made it worthwhile.

Plage du Petit Sperone & Grand Sperone

Two of the most famous beaches near Bonifacio. Petit Sperone is a small, sheltered cove with clear turquoise water, while Grand Sperone is a longer arc of sand just a little further afield.

They’re both only reachable on foot from Plage de Piantarella, so pack light if you go. These are popular for a reason – expect company in high season.

Plage de Canetto

A more hidden spot reached via a bumpy track. We parked about a kilometre away and walked, though with a high-clearance car you can get all the way.

The beach itself was quiet and the water beautifully clear – perfect if you want something less crowded.

Plage de Sant’Amanza

This wide bay is only a short drive from town. The beach itself didn’t impress us as much as others. That said, it’s an easy option if you’re looking for somewhere with shallow water.

Plage de Rondinara

We stopped here on our way from Bonifacio towards Ghisonaccia, and it ended up being one of the prettiest beaches we saw on the trip.

The curved, horseshoe-shaped bay is naturally sheltered, so the water stays calm and shallow – great if you’re travelling with kids or just want an easy swim.

Parking costs 5 euros (~ 5.7 USD)* for the day, and from there it’s only a short walk to the sand.

*The price is from 2025.

7. Bastion de l’Étendard – Historic fort with a small museum and views

The Bastion de l’Étendard is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Bonifacio’s old town.

Built in the 13th century, this fortified structure once defended the town from attacks and still dominates the entrance to the citadel today.

Inside, there’s a small museum with displays on Bonifacio’s military and maritime history, along with old maps and photographs.

It doesn’t take long to visit, but it adds some context to the town’s past if you’re interested in Bonifacio’s background.

You can also head up to the top for panoramic views over the harbour, coastline and rooftops of the old town.

Entry was 3.5 euros (~ 4 USD) in 2025. If you combine it with the King of Aragon’s Staircase, you can get a joint ticket for 6.5 euros (~ 7.4 USD), which covers both entrances.

8. Église Sainte-Marie-Majeure – Romanesque church with an arched entrance

Two minutes from the Bastion de l’Étendard, you’ll find one of the oldest buildings in the city: Église Sainte-Marie-Majeure.

The church dates back to the 12th century and, although it has been expanded over time, it still retains much of its original Romanesque character.

Thick stone walls and a graceful arched entrance give it a simple charm, and the doorway opens onto a quiet little square.

It’s easy to visit as you wander into the old town, and its position makes it one of the first historic landmarks you’ll come across in Bonifacio.

9. Église Saint-Dominique – Gothic church

The church Église Saint-Dominique stands out with its understated Gothic architecture and solid stone walls inside Bonifacio’s old town.

The interior is calm and somewhat austere, with high vaulted ceilings and a cool, quiet atmosphere.

It’s a short visit and, while not the most memorable spot in town, it’s still worth a stop if you’re already exploring the old town and curious about Bonifacio’s religious heritage.

10. Cimetière Marin de Bonifacio – Peaceful cemetery with a sea view

Set at the far western edge of Bonifacio’s old town, the Marine Cemetery (known as Cimetière Marin de Bonifacio in French) is one of the more unexpected and memorable places to visit.

The quiet hilltop cemetery is filled with rows of white family mausoleums that resemble small chapels more than gravestones.

It gives the appearance of a miniature village overlooking the sea, and it’s a peaceful place to wander with the breeze from the ocean.

Set high above the coastline with wide views over the Mediterranean, the location itself is striking, and we found it to be a very special stop.

11. Viewpoint near the Marine Cemetery – Quiet part of the old defences with wide sea views

Just outside the cemetery, a wide open area stretches out along the cliffs, offering some of the best sea views in Bonifacio.

It’s a quieter (and windier!) part of the old town defences, with crumbling stone walls, open space and no crowds – a nice contrast to the busier streets around the citadel.

From here, you get broad views of the sea, the rugged southern Corsican coastline and on a clear day, the Sardinian coast.

It’s a great spot for a peaceful walk or a photo break, and well worth the short detour before heading back into town.

12. Le Gouvernail de la Corse – Military bunker carved into the rock

In the middle of the open space near the cemetery, a staircase leads down to Le Gouvernail de la Corse – a small underground museum built into the limestone cliffs.

The name means “Corsica’s rudder”, and the site served as a military lookout and defence post during World War II.

Visitors can follow a long tunnel into the rock and walk through the narrow corridors once used by soldiers.

There isn’t much information inside, but the setting is unique, and the views are reportedly amazing, especially around sunset.

Entry was 3 euros (~ 3.4 USD) in 2025, and most people spend around 15-20 minutes here.

13. Capo Pertusato – Views over cliffs and Bonifacio in the distance

Capo Pertusato lies just a few kilometres southeast of Bonifacio and offers some of the most dramatic coastal views in southern Corsica.

From the cliffs, you can look back towards Bonifacio on its white limestone plateau – a great angle for photos, and we imagine it would be lovely to enjoy the sunset from here.

Along the road to Capo Pertusato, there are several scenic pullouts where you can stop to take in the view.

The cliffs themselves are wide open and exposed, so be prepared for strong winds. It was incredibly gusty when we visited, and we ended up skipping the walk down to the beach since Victoria was 6 months pregnant and we had our toddler with us.

That said, if the weather allows, there’s a path that leads from the lighthouse down to Plage de Saint-Antoine – a beautiful, remote beach at the base of the cliffs.

The trail is considered moderate, not technically difficult, but uneven and not suitable for sandals or strollers. The hike to the beach usually takes 20-30 minutes.

14. Hiking to Phare de la Madonetta – Coastal trail with lighthouse views

Alex went for a trail run starting right from Bonifacio, taking the stone stairs marked Sentier d’A Strada Vecchia – Cala di Paragan just above the harbour. The route is equally great for a more relaxed hike.

The path winds through scrubland, past old stone shelters and ovens, and offers glimpses of small wildlife and coastal plants.

Following the trail towards the Phare de la Madonetta lighthouse, the stairs cut into white cliffs lead to the lighthouse with spectacular views over Bonifacio and out to Sardinia.

The hike from Bonifacio to the lighthouse is just over 3 kilometres with about 100 metres of elevation gain and loss, taking roughly an hour each way.

You can continue onward to Fazziò cove if you fancy a swim or picnic, go further to Plage de Paragan, or simply enjoy the quieter paths around the scrublands.

15. Day trips from Bonifacio – Easy access to southern Corsica highlights

If you’re using Bonifacio as your base in Corsica, there are lots of great things to do on day trips to other parts of the island, especially if you have a car.

Here are a few ideas.

Porto-Vecchio + its beaches

About 40 minutes from Bonifacio, Porto-Vecchio combines a chic marina with a charming old town full of cafés and boutiques.

The drive there also takes you past some of Corsica’s most popular beaches, including Palombaggia, Santa Giulia and Rondinara – all known for their clear water and soft sand. Ideal if you want to mix town life with a day by the sea.

Sartène

About an hour northwest of Bonifacio, Sartène is often described as “the most Corsican of Corsican towns”.

Its old centre is made up of granite buildings, narrow alleys and quiet little squares with mountain views.

This traditional hill town has a slower pace and a strong local identity – a nice contrast to the coastal vibe in Bonifacio. Great for a lunch stop and getting a sense of Corsican culture.

Santa Teresa Gallura (Sardinia, Italy)

It’s possible to take a ferry across the Strait of Bonifacio to the Sardinian town of Santa Teresa Gallura.

Crossings usually run daily during the warmer months and take around an hour.

It’s a relaxed place to explore for the day, with a walkable town centre, lunch spots and a beautiful beach just below the main square.

We spent 10 days in Santa Teresa Gallura a few years ago and really enjoyed it, so if you have time for a quick detour to Italy, it’s well worth the trip.

Map of the best things to do and see in Bonifacio

Where to stay in Bonifacio

When deciding where to stay in Bonifacio, it’s worth thinking about what kind of experience you’re after.

The main areas to consider are the old town and the harbour, each with its own charm and practicalities.

Search for the best hotels in Bonifacio here (adlink) or see our recommendations for the best hotels below.

Where to stay in Bonifacio Old Town

Staying in Bonifacio’s old town means you’re in the heart of the action, surrounded by cobbled lanes, historic buildings and panoramic viewpoints.

It’s a great choice if you want atmosphere and don’t mind walking up and down a bit. The area is mostly pedestrian, and you may need to park a little outside the centre.

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• Value for money: Colomba Hôtel Centre-Ville Historique – Family-run hotel with uniquely decorated rooms in a 14th-century building near King of Aragon’s Staircase.
• Value for money: Santateresa – Modern 3‑star clifftop hotel with sea views and a quiet location at the edge of the old town.
• Luxury: Hotel Spa Genovese – Charming 4-star boutique hotel with a pool, spa and harbour views set within the old town walls.

Where to stay in Bonifacio’s harbour

The harbour area below the old town is more accessible by car and has a lively, holiday feel with cafés, shops and boat trips right on your doorstep.

It’s a convenient base with flatter terrain and good access to both the old town (via a short walk uphill) and the marina.

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• Value for money: Best Western Hôtel du Roy d’Aragon – 3-star hotel on the harbour with air-conditioned rooms, a seaside terrace and complimentary access to nearby parking.
• Luxury: Hôtel Cala di Greco – A stylish 4-star boutique retreat a 5-minute drive from the harbour, with cliffside infinity pools, private patios or pools in many suites and incredible views.

How to get around Bonifacio

Getting around Bonifacio is relatively straightforward thanks to the town’s small size, but be prepared for some steep climbs and uneven streets, especially if you’re heading up to the old town.

Most key sights in Bonifacio are within walking distance, though the elevation change between the harbour and the old town means a bit of effort is required.

Here are the best ways to get around Bonifacio.

Walking

Walking is probably the most enjoyable way to experience Bonifacio.

The historic centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly with cobbled streets, small squares and scenic viewpoints all located close together.

Reaching the old town from the harbour involves a bit of an uphill walk, but unless you bring a stroller (like we did) it shouldn’t be too bad.

Le Petit Train de Bonifacio

Bonifacio has its own open-sided tourist train, Le Petit Train de Bonifacio, that runs between the harbour and the upper old town.

It’s a handy option for anyone who wants to avoid the steep climb up to the citadel.

There’s one simple route: a round trip from the marina to the old town with a short commentary (available in several languages) about Bonifacio’s history and sights.

The duration of the round trip is around 30 minutes, and it runs roughly every 30-45 minutes in peak season.

The departure point is by the port, close to the tourist office. Tickets cost 6 euros (~ 7 USD) in 2025 for the round trip and must be purchased in person at the marina ticket office.

By car

Though you won’t need a car for getting around central Bonifacio, having your own vehicle gives you the most freedom to explore the surrounding coastline and inland areas of southern Corsica.

We usually compare car rental deals on DiscoverCars (adlink), where the quoted price includes all mandatory fees, taxes and basic extras, so there are no surprises at pickup.

Parking in Bonifacio can be tricky, particularly in the summer months.

There are several car parks near the harbour and some just outside the old town, but they’re on the expensive side and tend to fill up fast.

We parked here, and it was 70 euro cents per 15 minutes or 25 euros for the whole day in 2025 (one of the cheaper options in town).

This one is another big parking lot close to the harbour.

When to visit Bonifacio

Bonifacio has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Its dramatic cliffside position means there’s often a steady breeze, and conditions can shift quickly – even more so outside peak season.

Here’s what you can typically expect throughout the year in terms of weather and travel atmosphere.

Spring (March to May)

Spring is a great time to visit Bonifacio, with daytime temperatures usually ranging from 13-22°C (55-72°F) as the town starts to warm up.

March and April can still bring a few showers, while May tends to be sunnier and more settled.

The sea remains chilly until late May, but the cooler temperatures are perfect for walking the coastal trails, sightseeing in the old town or taking scenic drives.

Bonifacio is still fairly quiet this time of year, especially on weekdays, so it’s a good chance to experience the town without the summer rush.

Prices for hotels and car rentals are often lower, though it’s a bit busier around Easter.

Many seasonal cafés and shops by the harbour begin reopening in April, but early spring can still feel quite laid-back – ideal if you prefer a slower pace and fewer crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer in Bonifacio is hot, sunny and lively. It’s the busiest time of year on the southern tip of Corsica.

Daytime temperatures often sit between 24-32°C (75-90°F), sometimes climbing higher during heatwaves.

The sea stays warm, usually between 23-26°C (73-79°F), making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling and boat trips.

The town is in full swing: cafés, restaurants and shops stay open late, and the harbour buzzes with people enjoying the warm evenings.

Bonifacio draws a mix of French holidaymakers, international visitors and yacht travellers in July and August. The town has a lively summer energy, particularly around the marina.

Accommodation prices are at their peak, and you’ll likely need to book hotels, restaurants and boat tours ahead.

Parking near the port or in the old town can also be tricky. Even more so if you arrive in the middle of the day.

If you’re after warm sea, vibrant streets and long summer evenings, summer is a great time to visit Bonifacio. Just be prepared for the crowds.

Autumn (September to November)

In September, autumn begins much like summer with warm, sunny days and sea temperatures around 22-24°C (72-75°F), which is still comfortable for swimming and boat trips.

As the season progresses, the air cools, and the pace in town becomes more relaxed.

October offers pleasant weather for exploring the old town, coastal walks and nearby beaches, with daytime temperatures usually between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Rain becomes more frequent, but the atmosphere feels quieter and more peaceful.

By November, Bonifacio is much calmer with cooler days and occasional showers.

Visitor numbers drop significantly, making it a good time for hiking in the nearby hills or scenic drives along the coast.

Local markets shift to seasonal produce like chestnuts, figs and mushrooms, offering a different taste of Corsican life.

Accommodation is easier to find and generally cheaper than in summer, though some restaurants and tourist facilities may close from around mid-October.

For those seeking a quieter visit focused on nature, gentle weather and fewer crowds, autumn is the best time to visit Bonifacio.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Bonifacio is quiet and relaxed, with daytime temperatures usually ranging from 9-16°C (48-61°F).

Life slows down, giving the town a more local, peaceful atmosphere.

Snow is very rare along the coast, though the nearby inland hills may occasionally see a light dusting, adding to the scenic views on clear days.

This is the calmest and most affordable season to visit, with far fewer tourists and lower accommodation rates.

Many beach bars and seasonal restaurants close, but you can still find a selection of cafés and local eateries open.

December brings festive decorations that brighten the streets and add a warm holiday charm.

While rain is more frequent and the sea is too cold for swimming, winter is a good time for those who prefer a quiet break and want to experience Bonifacio’s more authentic, less touristy side.

Best time to visit Bonifacio

​​The ideal time to visit Bonifacio depends on what you want from your trip – whether it’s soaking up the sun on the beaches, enjoying coastal walks or finding a quieter, more affordable getaway.

• For beach lovers: Mid-June to mid-September.
• For outdoor activities: April to June and September to October.
• For budget travellers: November to March (excluding the Christmas/New Year’s period).
• For cultural exploration: April, May, September and October.
• For avoiding crowds: November, January and February.

Tip: The shoulder months of May, June, September and early October generally offer the best balance of pleasant weather, reasonable prices, and manageable crowd levels in Bonifacio.

Best tips for visiting Bonifacio

• Walk as much as possible. The old town and main sights are close together, and parking is limited, so exploring on foot is usually the easiest and most enjoyable way to get around.
• Prepare for parking challenges. If you’re driving, know that parking is limited and often expensive near the old town and harbour.
• Visit beaches early or late in the day. The most famous beaches get crowded in peak season. Morning light is great for photos, and late afternoons are calmer with warm water and softer light.
• Bring a quality camera. Bonifacio is picturesque! Here’s a guide to the gear we use.
• Check opening days and hours in advance. Markets, museums and even some restaurants aren’t open every day. In the shoulder season or winter, some places may be closed entirely.
• Check ferry schedules in advance. If planning a trip to the Lavezzi Islands or Sardinia, ferry times can vary by season.
• Book ahead in summer. Hotels, car rentals, boat tours and restaurants can fill up quickly during peak season.
• Use an eSIM for easy mobile data. If your phone supports eSIM and you don’t have data included, services like Airalo offer affordable options for France or all of Europe (adlinks). We’ve used it successfully on other trips.
• Wear sneakers or other comfortable shoes. The old town’s cobbled streets and steep staircases mean you’ll be doing plenty of walking on uneven surfaces in Bonifacio.
• Bring cash. Some small shops and cafés may not accept cards, so having euros on hand is handy.
• Remember travel insurance (adlink). Never travel without it!

Sustainable travel tips

To minimise your impact during your visit, follow these guidelines:

• Bring your own drinking water in a refillable bottle.
• Avoid single-use plastics.
• Sort your waste correctly and do not throw it on the ground.
• Check your sunscreen before going in the water. Many brands contain oxybenzone and other chemicals that are harmful to the environment.
• Take only photos, leave only footprints. Let everything stay in its natural place.

Thanks for reading

Thank you for reading our travel guide to Bonifacio. We hope it has been helpful!

What do you think about the historic town on the cliffs? Do you know what to see in Bonifacio now?

Whether you’re going for the beaches, the cliffside views or the atmosphere of the old town, Bonifacio is one of the places in Corsica that’s stuck with us the most.

If you’ve visited Bonifacio, it would be awesome to hear your best tips and tricks.

If you haven’t been yet, please don’t hesitate to ask us anything in the comments below. We’re happy to help.