Porto-Vecchio is a lively harbor town with a maze of historic streets. With luxurious stretches of sand nearby and a charming town center filled with bars, restaurants and designer boutiques, this seductive vacation destination combines relaxation and culture.
Porto-Vecchio is the third-largest city in Corsica. It was once known as Cité du Sel (City of Salt) the strength of the local economy rested on the production of salt. Today it’s a well-established resort town with a chic and glamorous image often drawing comparison to Saint-Tropez.
Wander the ancient cobbled streets of the Old Town to find plenty of historic attractions. Head to Place de République, the main town square, to people-watch from terraces of fashionable cafés. Note the gnarled and twisted tree in the center of the square, providing shade for surrounding cafés. This tree, known as Bel Ombra, has been here since 1901. The square is also home to the notable Romanesque Church of St.-Jean Baptiste, which dates back to the 19th century and contains an interesting 16th-century painting of the Crucifixion.
Other places of historic interest include the restored Bastion de France, now housing a gallery, and the old city gate, Porte Genoise. Head down the hillside to the Porto-Vecchio Marina to watch luxury yachts or take a boat trip to the uninhabited Lavezzi Islands.
Sunbathe, swim or stroll in the sands of the renowned Palombaggia beach. Stretch out on the sand and look toward the Cerbicales Islands in the distance. Other beautiful beaches nearby include the golden stretch of Santa Giulia.
Take a daytrip to the Bouche de Bonifacio Nature Reserve and explore coastal grottos and inlets. Travel inland for an active adventure. The mountains of the Alta Rocca region offer opportunities to hike, rock climb and horse ride.
To avoid crowds, visit Porto-Vecchio in early or late summer when the weather is warm and the crowds thin. The city is located on the southeast coast, with Figari Sud-Corse Airport about 15 miles (24.2 kilometers) away.
