The 8 things to do in Calvi

Calvi, his bay, his round paths, his happy people who rise their glasses, his children from alleys, the old soul of his stones in the sun. To enjoy this unique place, discover the ten must-have things to do in Calvi.

Corsica! This rock loved in the sea, its undeniable beauty, its revolted culture, the accolades of its inhabitants to the great heart and its songs of freedom. In the northwest of the island of Beauty, Calvi does not derogate from the rule. Go to the discovery of stretching cliff chains on pure beaches, vibrant traditions and historic sites. The second most touristic city of Corsica, to visit Calvi is almost compulsory during a stay on the island of Beauty. Set in two parts, the medieval city consists of a high part, famous for its citadel and a low part, where the marina nests. However, there is so much to do in Calvi! Why not start with the ten essential things to do in Calvi?

1. Landry dock

The marina that fringes the quai Landry is a true invitation to strolling and to the sweetness of living. A must-have ride to Calvi, which can be enjoyed at any time.

At the dawn, time is suspended. The floating palaces and the modest boats quietly clapot on the waters of the port. The fishermen do business this morning while you take your coffee. After your dreamy and morning walks, comes the lunch hour. Why not taste the specialties of the terroir? Finally arrives the bloom of the night. This is an opportunity to visit Calvi at the rhythm of his festive, warm and musical evenings.

2. The Citadel

citadel of Calvi is absolutely remarkable. Perched on its entangled promontory, imperial above the Mediterranean, it bears witness to the great wealth of the historic Corsica heritage. From the heights of this iconic monument, visit Calvi at a glance thanks to the three hundred and sixty degrees on the city, the ramparts, the port and the maquis.

Then go and lose yourself in the maze of paved streets with the charm of old. Raise the walls of typical houses, uncover the most beautiful places, dive your nostrils into the flowers suspended to the old stone.

3. Discovery of historical treasures

What are you looking for in Calvi and you're a historical heritage fan? That's fine. Calvi is a treasure of history on the water. After your walk in the secret streets of the citadel, you can follow the traces of the monuments troking around the corners of the streets. Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral Calvi's religious lung. The Oratory Saint-Antoine Abbé, which guarantees religious traditions. The tower of Sel, the vigy of the ancient medieval city. Caserne Sampiero, former home of the Genoese governors of the 16th century. The church of Sainte-Marie-Majeure, the beautiful rose and gold in a setting. The Revellata lighthouse accessible from trails in the wild Corsica. Or the very coveted and mysterious house of Christopher Columbus.

4. Lunch meeting

Who says Corsica says heavenly beaches. The bad city is no exception. It is impossible to visit Calvi without passing through its immaculate sand banks, surrounded by pine forests, wet by crystalline waters. The beaches of Calvi are also full of water sports schools. Incontournable to do in Calvi, try sailing, kayaking, paddle or jet-skiing.

• The beach of Pinède : accessible on foot from downtown, is one of the most popular. Postcard landscapes, chic paillotes, nautical activities and famous festival Calvi on the Rocks, it is an ideal place to combine stuffing and sensational experiences.
• The beach of Sainte-Restitude : at the exit of Calvi, towards Lumio, this creek opens on a horizon of pebbles, rocks and azur waves. Known for its tranquility, this beach is full of the famous eyes of Saint Lucia. These lucky shells are emblematic in Corsica.
• The beach of Algajola : located between Calvi and Rousse Island, this relaxed beach extends to the foot of the cultural village of Algajola. Another medieval pearl floating on the sea.
• The beach Lozari : paradise for families and sportsmen, this beach not far from Rousse Island is a landmark for nature lovers. Spread your towel on a white sand dune, spike a head in turquoise water, wav in the mountain reflection.

5. The bad flavors

During your stay in Corsica, you will necessarily discover its gastronomy: an argument that can justify a journey on the island of beauty alone. Each region still has its specialties. In Calvi, test for example the Calf Luinguine, an explosion of Mediterranean flavour, or the calffish soup. And for ever more delicacies, go to local markets, overflowing with regional life and products.

You will have understood it, the gourmets will not miss things to taste and to do in Calvi.

6. A boat ride

Why not visit Calvi from its crystal clear waters? At the start of the port, many boat trips are possible. The frame is splendid and create unforgettable memories.

By choosing one boat rental , so you could venture into exceptional places, such as:

• The Scandola Reserve : jewels classified as a UNESCO world heritage, dotted with holes and caves in the volcanic rock;
• The Agriata Desert : known its white sand beaches, plunging into turquoise water, among the most beautiful and preserved of Corsica;
• The calanques of Piana : UNESCO World Heritage Site for these incredible blood cliffs and whose beauty leaves without voice;
• The Gulf of Calvi and Revellata: exceptional places to admire at sunset on the water, a glass of Corsica wine by hand;
• Girolata : the small fishing village full of authentic charm and disappointment.
• Many beaches and wild coves: places where you will be alone, away from mass tourism.

Another unavoidable activity to do in Calvi: the diving . The place is full of an exceptional marine life, of which it would be a shame not to be a spectator.

7. A train ride to Rousse Island

The Corsica train, this famous Trinichellu ! This is a typical way to visit Calvi and its surroundings. Embark on one of the two scenic cars, walk along the pine forest and follow the rails to the track Rousse Island .

This city has a dream beach directly in its center. Its charm and atmosphere are unique: the warm colors of the walls of the houses, the unpretentious restaurants in front of the sea, the white lighthouse at the top of the city, the market covered with the edges of Greek temple, the long walks on the rocky islets.

8. Walking through the woods, feet or other

To do in Calvi for lovers of nature, strong sensations or enchanting forest! Bonifatu Forest offers for example a natural setting as beautiful as relaxing for hikers. At the turn of pines, fruit-filled trees, views of the surrounding summits, discover shaded paths, suspended walkways and translucent natural pools. The green and wild valleys around Calvi such as Fango, also allow you to discover canyoning, climbing, mountain biking, quad or dip from rocks.

How to get to Calvi?

Want to visit Calvi? Aeroplane, boat, bus, train is easy to get there!

By plane

The town of Calvi, northwest of Corsica, is very accessible. It has an airport, Calvi Sainte-Catherine, located seven kilometres from the city centre. By plane from Paris, the Island of Beauty is only one and a half hour away and the prices are therefore very affordable if you take it in advance. To find the best rate, at the time of your choice, do not hesitate to consult the comparative offers at home Ulysses which lists the most attractive flights of the moment, regardless of your departure city.

Once on site, the car remains the best way to locomotion if you want to discover Corsica freely. If you opt for the plane and want to use a car once on site, know that you can rent a vehicle upon arrival at the airport in one of the specialized agencies.

By ferry

From Nice, Marseille or Toulon for example, it is possible to reach the port of Calvi by ferry. A boat trip is longer but has its charm. The ferry advantage is of course the possibility to board with its car.

Once on site

As a tourist city, Calvi is very well served by public transport. Many cities are connected to Calvi by rails and by road. Liaisons by train and bus are daily and rarely very long given the size of Corsica.

If you have your own vehicle, you will enjoy experimenting with driving on the famous Corsican roads!

Where to stay in Calvi

Airbnb rentals, guest houses, campsites, hotels, from the most basic to the most luxurious, from the most romantic family, Calvi offers all types of accommodation. To find your happiness, take a look at a hotel comparison that, according to your predilection criteria and your dates of stay, selects the best accommodation offers.

Côté area where to stay , the medieval center of Calvi is an authentic and picturesque place to spend your nights. You can enjoy historical monuments, typical restaurants and cafés, cultural and festive entertainment, freshness of the port.

Of course, you may want to visit Calvi in a more natural and quiet atmosphere. In this case, choose to place your feet in the water, on the edge of the cliffs or in the heart of the maquis. Rayonner around Calvi to sleep allows you to discover landscapes and more wild places. In any case, you will never be far from the ten essential things to do in Calvi!