The Best Things to Do in Bonifacio, Corsica: A Complete Guide

When it comes to one of my favorite places visited during my month-long trip around Corsica, Bonifacio takes the top spot. The sheer dramatic cliff with the centuries-old citadel perched above bright white limestone, the Tyrrhenian Sea stretching out behind it, was even better in person than the photos. Having visited the citadel twice over because I loved it so much, I’ve put together a comprehensive guide on the best things to do in Bonifacio, Corsica.

Bonifacio is one of those places that will stick with you forever. The dramatic, windswept coastline faces out to Sardinia in the distance, sitting as the southernmost point of Corsica. The citadel, with its towering walls and pastel colors, and the winding cobbled streets, makes the whole town feel like an absolute jewel box. I’d say Bonifacio was my favorite stop during my Corsica itinerary.

The raw beauty is hard to capture with words. And then to have this fortified medieval citadel right there feels otherworldly. I remember when I began to plan our trip to Corsica, originally inspired by my French grandfather, who had spoken so highly of Bonifacio. He spent time on the island in his twenties, sharing about the pure beauty of Corsica, with Bonifacio being one of his favorite stops.

And he was right. Bonifacio is unlike any of the other ports or towns on the island. The town deserves a slow-going day, a morning spent strolling the citadel and taking in the views. Dine at one of the many restaurants that focus on local cuisine and ingredients. Corsican food is some of the best in the Mediterranean.

From there, venture out further to nearby beaches. Find tucked-away coves and islands where you can go snorkeling. That’s the beauty of Bonifacio. You’re never far from dipping into the azure waters right off the coast. So if you’re planning a trip to Corsica, don’t skip this town.

Below, I’ve laid out everything you need to know to plan a trip to Bonifacio. Use the town as a base to explore the greater region, or come in for a day trip. Either way, I have tips on what not to miss when visiting.

Short on Time? Here Are My Top Picks for the Best Hotels and Things to Do in Bonifacio:

Bonifacio’s Old Town sits high on the cliffs above the marina, and both areas are walkable once you’re there. I’d recommend basing yourself just outside the citadel rather than in the historic center itself. You’ll want easy access to your car and a pool to cool off in the afternoons.

Hotels

1. Version Maquis Citadelle ($$$), for the best modern luxury hotel
2. U Capu Biancu ($$$), for the best luxury and intimate hotel stay
3. Lodge de Charme A Cheda ($$), for the best design for dollar stay
4. A Speranza ($$$), for the best boutique countryside stay

Airbnbs

1. 2 Bedroom Sheepfold with Private Pool, for the best mix of Corsican character and a private pool minutes from the beaches
2. 1 Bedroom Apartment with Lavezzi Island Views, for the best sea views and a shared pool surrounded by olive trees near Sperone
3. 1 Bedroom Cottage in the Bonifacio Countryside, for the best quiet countryside retreat within walking distance of the port
4. 3 Bedroom Limestone House with Private Pool, or the best family-friendly base with a private pool and three en-suite bedrooms

Things to Do

1. Cliff and Sea Cave Boat Tour — This 1.5-hour tour that departs from the marina is the one I’d prioritize. You’ll pass through Sdragonato Cave with its famous Corsica-shaped ceiling opening and see the citadel from sea level.
2. Lavezzi Islands Half-Day Boat Tour with Snorkeling — A 3–4 hour boat trip from Bonifacio’s marina to the Lavezzi Islands, with time to snorkel in crystal-clear lagoons and relax on the rocks. This was one of my favorite experiences in all of Corsica.
3. Catamaran Ride to the Lavezzi Islands with Snorkeling — A 4-hour catamaran experience with snorkeling stops around the Lavezzi archipelago. A great option if you want a slightly more relaxed pace on the water.

Travel Tips

1. Get Cell Data Before You Arrive — Corsica’s roads are winding and cell service can be spotty in the countryside. We use Holafly unlimited data eSIMs for all international travel and recommend installing your eSIM before arrival so maps and directions work the moment you land. Pre-Purchase your Holafly eSIM here.
2. Rent a Car for Corsica — You’ll absolutely need a car to explore beyond Bonifacio. Public transportation across the island is very limited. We use Booking.com for our rental cars in Corsica, choose full coverage insurance, and recommend renting only with Enterprise/National/Alamo, as it is by far the highest-rated agency in Corsica (the others have very poor ratings). Renting a car and driving in Corsica is quite easy. Book your car with Booking.com here.

Helpful Guides to Plan Your Trip

Planning a bigger trip around the island? Don’t miss my complete Corsica itinerary and my guide to where to stay in Corsica to help you map out your route. I also have full guides to visiting Corsica and the best beaches in Corsica, with everything I learned from spending a month on the island, as well as detailed guides to the towns of Saint-Florent and Porto-Vecchio.

The Best Things to Do in Bonifacio, Corsica:
A Complete Travel Guide

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What to Know Before You Visit Bonifacio

Where is Bonifacio?

Bonifacio sits at nearly the southernmost tip of Corsica, and the town is made up of two parts: the citadel, old town perched on an incredible limestone cliff, and the port with a marina below. From the citadel, you can look across the Tyrrhenian Sea and see the northern tip of Sardinia. The strait between Corsica and Sardinia is a very popular area for sailing.

How to Get to Bonifacio

The closest airport is Figari–Sud Corse, about a 20-minute drive south. From Ajaccio, the drive is roughly three hours along the coast. From Bastia, expect closer to four. You can also reach Bonifacio by ferry from Santa Teresa Gallura in Sardinia, which takes about an hour. I drove from Porto-Vecchio (about 30 minutes), and the route along the southern coast is beautiful.

Best Time to Visit Bonifacio

June and September are ideal if you want warm days with fewer tourists. The shoulder months also tend to have calmer seas for boat trips to the Lavezzi Islands and along the cliffs. I visited in the early fall, and the weather was incredible. Warm, sunny, perfect for coastal walks and boat excursions. July and August bring peak crowds, and parking fills up early.

Is Bonifacio Worth Visiting?

Absolutely. Bonifacio is one of the best stops in southern Corsica, for me. The citadel is lively and historic, and the port sits just below with restaurants, boats, and a great energy. I loved it.

How Much Time to Visit Bonifacio

To see the historic center, you’ll only need about an afternoon and a meal. Add in any of the coastal walks, the port, or boat excursions, and you’ll want a full day or two. If you plan to explore the citadel on your own, give yourself a few hours and a meal.

Getting Around Bonifacio (Rental Car Insight)

The historic center of Bonifacio is completely pedestrian. You won’t need a car up there at all (outside of the occasional delivery truck). For the greater region, though, you will need a rental car. Public transportation is very limited across Corsica.

Rental Car Tip: We use Booking.com for our rental cars in Corsica, choose full coverage insurance, and recommend renting only with Enterprise/National/Alamo, as it is by far the highest-rated agency in Corsica (the others have very poor ratings).

Where to Park in Bonifacio

You’ll need to park at one of Bonifacio’s designated lots. The main lots closest to town fill up fast, especially in peak season. The best option is Parking P5, which puts you at the top of the hill for a flat walk into the historic center. Fair warning: P5 fills up by about 10 am most days.

If P5 is full, you’ll need to park by the port at P1 or P2, or in the other nearby lots. These also fill up by early afternoon. The downside is that you’re at the bottom of the port, so reaching the citadel up on the hill means a very steep climb (doable if you’re active) or waiting in a long line for the tourist train.

Does Bonifacio Make a Good Base for Exploring?

Yes, I love Bonifacio as a base for visiting the greater southern Corsica region. I recommend Bonifacio or Porto-Vecchio in my where to stay in Corsica guide. That said, I wouldn’t stay in the historic center itself. Opt for somewhere on the outskirts near the ocean, or in the countryside. Staying in the city center means lots of walks back and forth to your car, so accommodations just outside are a better call.

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Where to Stay in Bonifacio, Corsica

My top picks for where to stay in Bonifacio include a few hotels in the surrounding countryside and one standout property (U Capu Biancu) on the coast. There are also some amazing vacation rentals, which I think suit a family or multi-generational trip better. Having a pool is a welcome break in summer, as the towns get very hot during the afternoon.

Best Hotels near Bonifacio

1. Version Maquis Citadelle ($$$), for the best modern luxury hotel
2. U Capu Biancu ($$$), for the best luxury and intimate hotel stay
3. Lodge de Charme A Cheda ($$), for the best design for dollar stay
4. A Speranza ($$$), for the best boutique countryside stay

Best Vacation Rentals Near Bonifacio (All with Parking!)

1. 2 Bedroom Sheepfold with Private Pool, for an authentic converted sheepfold with a private pool, covered terrace, and garden set in the maquis just five minutes from Bonifacio and the beach
2. 1 Bedroom Apartment with Lavezzi Island Views, for a bright one-bedroom with a large terrace overlooking the Lavezzi Islands, a shared pool among olive trees, and beaches within walking distance
3. 1 Bedroom Cottage in the Bonifacio Countryside, for a quiet, independent little house on a wooded plot just one kilometer from the port, with a terrace, hammock, and access to heritage walking trails
4. 3 Bedroom Limestone House with Private Pool, for a spacious limestone house with three en-suite bedrooms, a private pool, and a large garden on the plateau just minutes from the port and the Lavezzi boat departures

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Things to Do in Bonifacio, Corsica

Stroll the Citadel – Bonifacio’s Vieille Ville

With a 9th-century citadel founded in 830, Bonifacio is the oldest town on the island of Corsica. The citadel is an absolute gem to explore, all done on foot through winding cobblestone streets that lead in and out of the city.

Coming from the marina, you’ll pass through the Porte de Gênes, where you can spot the historic Chapelle St-Roch just outside the citadel’s walls. My suggestion is to get an early start, as the sun gets high and it can be incredibly hot here by midday.

Within the citadel, there are several sights to see, including a few main churches. The first is Église Sainte-Marie Majeure, a Roman Catholic church built in the 12th–13th century and classified as a historic monument. You can’t miss it, as it sits right in the center of the city. The next is Chiesa di San Giovanni Battista, a very small chapel just off the main street. And finally, the Grand Église Saint-Dominique, set in an old convent, is the oldest church on Corsica.

The real pleasure of visiting the Vieille Ville is simply getting lost in these streets. You never know what you’ll find, from local boutiques to wine shops to cafes. On Rue des Deux-Empereurs, keep an eye out for door number 31 with a plaque that reads “Du 22 Janvier au 3 Mars 1793.” This was the house where Napoleon Bonaparte lived from January 22 to March 3, 1793.

See the Views and History of the Bastion de l’Etendard

Set high on the hill, the Bastion de l’Etendard is the main fortress of Bonifacio. Built in the 13th century to defend the island, the bastion is actually one of the highest in all of France, sitting 25 meters above the harbor.

Today you can visit, walking up the high ramparts and getting incredible views out to the sea and into the marina. I spent about an hour up here and discovered several exhibits within the bastion as well. The views alone are worth the visit. The entire structure is carved directly into the rock, which is equally impressive.

Visiting Information

• Price: 3.50 € for adults.
• Opening Hours: April through October, Monday–Friday: 9:00 to 19:00 (last entry 18:30) and Weekends: 10:00 to 18:00 (last entry 17:30)

Climb the Narrow Escalier du Roy d’Aragon

Everyone told me I had to climb the famous Escalier du Roy d’Aragon, but no one prepared me for just how steep and adventurous this would be. The staircase is one of the most famous sights in Bonifacio, with 187 steps cut into the side of the limestone cliff on the outer walls of the citadel. The stairs wind down and lead to a walkway along the ocean. Different stories explain why the staircase was built, but most likely the Genoese carved it for accessing water and supplies.

You’ll need to know that the staircase is one way up and one way down. The steps are incredibly steep, steeper than any staircase I’ve come across in my travels. So steep and narrow, in fact, that they have you wear a hard hat going up and down. You’ll also need closed-toe shoes. My recommendation is to go first thing before the heat of the day. The climb is intense, but the views are spectacular.

Visiting Information

• Price: €5.00 for adults
• Opening Hours
  • April: 10:00 – 16:30
  • May: 10:00 – 17:30
  • June: 9:00 – 18:30
  • July–August: 9:00 – 19:30
  • September: 9:00 – 18:30
  • October: 10:00 – 17:00

Get Pastries at Les Délices de Ciccio or Le Pain Boulangerie

Going back to Bonifacio twice, I came across two phenomenal boulangeries in the citadel. During my travels in Corsica, I hadn’t really found any artisan spots quite like these, so discovering them was a real pleasure. The first was Le Pain, a small hole-in-the-wall with varying hours, serving freshly baked breads and pastries (Note: Le Pain is not on the map, as it’s just a stand that’s open seasonally). The second was Les Délices de Ciccio, from the restaurant group Ciccio, which did these phenomenal pastries and breads.

Try the Local Gelato at Glacier ROCCA SERRA

For a cold treat, head straight to ROCCA SERRA for the best gelato in town. This was my favorite gelato on the island, with fresh flavors like classic cassis and citron vert, plus chocolates and chestnuts.

Stroll the Réserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio

The Réserve Naturelle des Bouches de Bonifacio is one of the most beautiful areas for a walk with views in all of Corsica. The reserve is a massive protected green space that includes the limestone cliffs and small beaches and coves off of them. You can access one of the main sections directly from the citadel.

You can catch the trail just outside the Porte de Gênes, following the carved path to the top of the limestone cliffs. I’d put this Google Map location as your main direction, as the path takes you right to the best view of Bonifacio. From here, you can also see the Grain de Sable, a small cropping of limestone that has separated from the cliffs. The entire path is exposed to the sun, so I’d recommend it for sunset or an early morning walk.

Walk to the Pertusato Lighthouse

Continuing along the coastal trail past the nature reserve viewpoints, you’ll reach the Pertusato Lighthouse (Phare de Pertusato) at the southernmost tip of mainland France. The walk from the citadel takes about 45 minutes each way along exposed clifftops, with sweeping views of Sardinia across the strait. On a clear day, the northern coast of Sardinia feels close enough to swim to. The trail is mostly flat and well-marked, but there’s no shade, so bring water and a hat if you’re going in summer.

Take a Boat Tour of Bonifacio’s Cliffs and Sea Caves

Separate from the Lavezzi Islands day trip below, this 1.5-hour boat tour along the base of Bonifacio’s cliffs is one of the most iconic experiences here. From the water, you get a completely different perspective of the citadel perched above the limestone walls. Most tours pass through the famous Sdragonato Cave, where a natural opening in the ceiling is shaped like the outline of Corsica, and continue along the sea caves and sculpted rock formations at the base of the cliffs.

Shop Local Products in Bonifacio

Strolling through the old town of Bonifacio, I stumbled across several lovely boutiques selling Corsican goods, from oils to canned foods to other treats. Shopping here is a great time to pick up a few souvenirs. I’d keep an eye out for Corsican charcuterie, Corsican honey, Canistrelli biscuits, Corsican wine, and local herbs for seasonings. These were my favorite stops:

• L’antigu, for wines and preserved goods (you can order an espresso here too!)
• A Piccinnina, for dried goods
• Cas’Anna, for bags and home goods
• L’Orée, for local liquor

Hit the Nearby Beaches

You can go in any direction from Bonifacio and find an incredible beach within a 15-minute drive. The southern region of Corsica, in my opinion, has the best beaches on the island. The sand is powdery white and the water is incredibly clear. My one recommendation is to bring your own amenities, as options are quite limited unless there is a restaurant on-site.

• Plage de Saint-Antoine, a wilder and more remote beach, accessed by a dirt road and a short walk
• Plage de Paraguan, a popular hidden cove very close to Bonifacio, accessed with a short walk from the parking lot
• Plage du Grand Sperone and Plage du Petit Sperone, Grand Sperone is one of the larger stretches of white sand, and Petit is the smaller section. Both require a 20–30 minute walk.
• Plage de Piantarella, the easiest beach to access, with a shallow lagoon-like area, great for families and with designated parking

Take a Day Trip to the Lavezzi Islands

One of the most popular activities, which I really wish I’d had the time to do, is a day trip to the Lavezzi Islands. The Lavezzi are a completely uninhabited protected area known for beautiful, clear waters full of sea life. Dolphins are even spotted here regularly. The islands are probably the most popular day trip from Bonifacio, as they’re easy to access from the marina by boat. Most tours include snorkeling stops in the lagoons and time to relax on white sand beaches. These are the best tours I researched:

• From Bonifacio: Half-Day Boat Tour (3-4 hours) with Time to Snorkel, a 3–4 hour guided boat tour to the Lavezzi Islands with snorkeling stops in crystal-clear lagoons and time on secluded white sand beaches.
• From Bonifacio: Catamaran Ride (4 Hours) with Snorkeling, a 4-hour catamaran excursion to the Lavezzi Islands with snorkeling in the protected marine reserve and time to swim in turquoise waters.
• From Bonifacio: Lavezzi Islands and Caves Tour, a guided boat tour combining the Lavezzi Islands marine park with a pass through Bonifacio’s dramatic sea caves and snorkeling in the reserve.

Explore the Marina of Bonifacio

Just below the citadel is the bustling Bonifacio Marina, sitting between the famous 70-meter-high rocky walls. Sailboats, larger vessels, and ferries all come through here, and the whole scene reminded me of what you see in the South of France, like Cannes or Marseille. The marina is a great spot to stroll, take in the boats, and soak in the port energy.

A walk along Quai Jérôme Comparetti takes you past all of the restaurants and shops. This is the liveliest part of the marina, as crew and sailors come in, and the energy picks up at night. There are some high-end restaurants here too, like Da Passano and Sushibar Bonifacio. And if you’re walking back to your car in one of the lower parking lots, you can always stop for gelato at Le ROCCA SERRA’s second location in the marina before departing!

Walk Through the Cimetière Marin de Bonifacio

One of the most famous cemeteries in France, sitting at the very point of the cliff, Cimetière Marin de Bonifacio is a historic sight many visitors walk through. The visit is solemn, but the cemetery is a real part of Bonifacio’s history and landscape. Walk out to the very point and you’ll also see the Phare de la Madonetta, an iconic lighthouse that marks the entrance to the harbor.

Climb the Gouvernail de la Corse

I didn’t get to this one during my visits, but the Gouvernail de la Corse (Rudder of Corsica) is high on my list for next time. Built during World War II, the staircase has 168 steps carved into the cliff face on the opposite side of the citadel from the Escalier du Roy d’Aragon. At the bottom, a flat rock platform juts out over the water with panoramic views toward Sardinia. From what I’ve researched, the climb is less steep and less narrow than the Escalier, so it’s a good option if you want the dramatic cliff descent without the hard hat and white-knuckle factor.

I love that Bonifacio has two of these carved staircases on either side of the citadel. The Gouvernail is lesser known, which means fewer crowds. If you have time for both, do both. They offer completely different perspectives of the coastline.

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The Best Bonifacio Restaurants

Corsican cuisine is hearty, fresh, and very regional. Think local charcuterie, wild boar, fresh seafood, and Brocciu cheese in just about everything. Bonifacio’s restaurant scene leans into all of this, and the best spots fill up fast in summer. I’d recommend securing reservations at least two weeks in advance.

Here’s where to eat in Bonifacio:

• L’Archivolto — A lovely local spot serving rustic food, mostly fresh seafood, with wood-fired pizzas as well. Two different locals recommended this one to us as a favorite for great regional cuisine.
• Restaurant U Capu Biancu-Bonifacio Corse — Quite possibly one of my favorite meals of the trip. The restaurant sits at the hotel U Capu Biancu, just above their private beach, about 15 minutes outside of Bonifacio. Reservations are required. Think fresh seafood and lovely views.
• L’Oriu di Chera — A small deli-style restaurant that does a range of dishes from day to night. You can get sandwiches, charcuterie, and they use all local products from Corsica.
• U Castillé — We had lunch here one day, having reserved about a week in advance. The pizzas are what they’re known for, and they were our favorites of the trip. The restaurant has several dining areas. Ask to sit in the interior room with sea views.
• L’assaghju — This felt like the “hip” spot of Bonifacio, with a wine bar and tapas-style menu. Very chic and cute, a good spot to come in for a charcuterie board and wine, or nibble your way through the menu.
• Bodega Bonifacio — For classic Corsican cuisine served as local as it gets, Bodega is the spot. We tried twice to get a reservation and couldn’t. I’d suggest walking by and speaking in person to get a table. The most popular dishes here are the wild boar civet and fresh lasagna.

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Where to Day Trip from Bonifacio, Corsica

Bonifacio makes an excellent base for exploring southern Corsica. Within an hour in most directions, there is something worth discovering. These are my top suggestions for where to go nearby.

Plage de Rondinara

A famous half-moon beach just under 40 minutes from Bonifacio, Plage de Rondinara was one of my favorite beaches in Corsica. The water is stunning and honestly rivals anything I’ve seen in the Caribbean. The shallows are crystal-clear, and you’ll see catamarans parked along the bay during the day. During high season, umbrellas and sunbeds are available for rent.

Porto-Vecchio

About 45 minutes north, Porto-Vecchio is another popular marina and historic citadel. I’d call it Bonifacio’s more glitzy cousin, with high-end hotels and restaurants in and around the port. The old town, or Vieille Ville, has the same winding streets and a central plaza lined with restaurants and boutiques. The marina is worth a walk too.

Palombaggia

Palombaggia is a more developed beach area in a very high-end part of Porto-Vecchio. The stretch runs from Plage de Palombaggia into Plage de Tamaricciu. I have to say, the beaches here are my favorite because they’re the most developed. The sand is amazing, and the whole area has that “Riviera” vibe. For a beach club with a great restaurant, Tamaricciu Restaurant was my favorite of the trip.

Sartène

Often referred to as the most “Corsican of Corsican towns,” Sartène is a lovely hilltop town about an hour inland from Bonifacio. You’ll find panoramic views of the valley and a historic center with cobbled streets. One of the highlights here is the Église Sainte-Marie, a 15th-century church with a bell tower and beautiful local architecture.

Ferry to Sardinia (Santa Teresa Gallura)

One of the best things about Bonifacio’s location is how close it is to Sardinia. The ferry from Bonifacio to Santa Teresa Gallura takes about 30 minutes, and sailings run frequently during summer. The northern tip of Sardinia is beautiful, with white sand beaches and a completely different feel from Corsica. Even a half-day across the strait is a memorable addition to your trip.

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FAQs About Visiting Bonifacio

How many days do you need in Bonifacio?

I’d say one full day is enough to explore the citadel, grab a meal, and walk the coastal trail. If you want to add a boat tour of the cliffs and a half-day trip to the Lavezzi Islands, plan for two days. I visited twice and was glad I had the extra time to revisit the old town at a slower pace.

How do you get to Bonifacio?

The closest airport is Figari–Sud Corse, about a 20-minute drive away. From there, you’ll need a rental car, as public transportation across Corsica is very limited. You can also reach Bonifacio by ferry from Santa Teresa Gallura in Sardinia, which takes about an hour.

Is Bonifacio worth visiting as a day trip?

Yes, absolutely. The citadel, the views, and a meal along the marina can all be done in a solid afternoon. I drove from Porto-Vecchio (about 30 minutes), and it was an easy day trip. Just arrive early so you can park at P5 before it fills up.

What is the best boat tour in Bonifacio?

This 1.5-hour cliff and sea cave tour that departs from the marina is the one I’d prioritize. You’ll pass through Sdragonato Cave with its famous Corsica-shaped ceiling opening and see the citadel from sea level. If you have more time, this half-day trip to the Lavezzi Islands is incredible and well worth adding on.

Can you visit Sardinia from Bonifacio?

You can. A ferry runs between Bonifacio and Santa Teresa Gallura on the northern tip of Sardinia, and the crossing takes about an hour. On a clear day from the coastal trail, Sardinia looks close enough to swim to. The strait between the two islands is also a very popular area for sailing.

When is the best time to visit Bonifacio?

June and September are the sweet spot. You’ll get warm, sunny weather without the peak-season crowds of July and August. The shoulder months also tend to have calmer seas, which makes a real difference for boat trips along the cliffs and out to the Lavezzi Islands.

How do you get from the marina to the citadel?

You can walk up through the Porte de Gênes, but know that it’s a very steep climb. If you’d rather skip the hill, there’s a small tourist train that runs between the port and the citadel. My recommendation is to park at P5 instead, which puts you at the top of the hill for a flat walk directly into the old town.

Is there parking in Bonifacio’s old town?

The citadel itself is completely pedestrian, so you won’t find parking up there. The best lot is P5, which sits at the top of the hill near the entrance to the historic center. Fair warning: it fills up by about 10 am in peak season. If P5 is full, P1 and P2 are down by the port, but you’ll need to climb or take the tourist train to reach the citadel from there.

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