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The best of Bastia in the spring
MUST-SEES IN BASTIA
Tour of the city centre
Any self-respecting Bastiais will say that the most important place in town is Place Saint-Nicolas. The rays of sun illuminating this large square will lead you directly to a café terrace, where you can make the most of these mild spring temperatures. Children will be delighted to run and play with each other while you relax in front of the sea. On Sunday, do some good deals as this famous place turns into a flea market and car boot sale.
Then head to Rue Napoléon to go shopping – it’s a busy pedestrian street that will take you to the heart of Bastia. Walk down Boulevard Paoli and pause at Rue César Campinchi and other adjacent streets, all of which delight shopaholics.
During your stay here, don’t miss the Bastia museum and the citadel, which offers visitors a permanent display of the renovated rooms of the Palais des Gouverneurs. Make a detour through its hanging garden, which offers a breathtaking view of the old port.
The old port is an authentic place where you can walk with family or friends. It’s a pleasant walk from the citadel, which will surely whet your appetite. Sit on the terrace of one of the restaurants and sample tasty seafood. Those with a sweet tooth can make a detour to the ‘glacier’ to taste its delicious homemade ice creams.
A stone’s throw from the old port, the Jardin Romieu is the green lung of the city. Take a break here; you’ll appreciate this peaceful corner of nature, full of flowers and right in the centre of town.
For your evening aperitif, we recommend the market place with its warm, friendly atmosphere –market days are Saturdays and Sundays.
On the heritage side
On the heritage side, don’t miss the Monserato Chapel, which houses a rare staircase (Scala Santa) of which only a dozen examples are known in the world. The imposing St. John the Baptist Church is another emblematic landmark of the city, with its two bell towers.
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Finally, climb the heights towards Pietrabugno and San Martino di Lota (in greater Bastia) by the coast road – and you can admire a breathtaking view of the city.
The picturesque village of Cardo is also worth a visit. If you’re a little sporty, it’s time to don your trainers and follow the sign near the fountain on the square, which guides you towards the Chemin des Glacières.
Alternatively, opt for a moment of relaxation and calm on the large Arinella beach, an ideal place to rest in this pre-season.
Sold on the city of Bastia? Find further info on the official tourist office website.
