City break in Bastia. Active leisure ideas for Bastia - attractions, recreation and nightlife

Located on the east coast of Corsica, Bastia is a true gem that is very interesting to explore despite the industrial appearance. Fans of Baroque heritage will definitely enjoy a stroll on alleyways of the historical part of the town. Refreshing breeze on the old marina is particularly welcome when sitting in one of the waterfront cafes and restaurants. On Saturday and Sunday, guests of the town will definitely enjoy a visit to a market near the bell tower where local farmers bring their freshest fruits and vegetables. It’s a great place to buy the Corsican clementine that grows on the eastern plain of the island. Tourists can go to the port where fishermen bring freshest and finest seafood that is available in nearby cafes.

Tourists, who crave for a moment of peace, will hardly find a better place than the Romieu Garden with its old trees and charming flowerbeds. In order to buy authentic souvenirs, tourists can check the flea market on Place Saint-Nicolas where they will find both handicrafts by local artisans and interesting vintage items. The Cyrnarom perfume museum is another great spot for buying authentic souvenirs from Bastia. There is a boutique in the museum that sells one-of-a-kind scents. In short, despite rather a small size, Bastia is a charming town, a vacation in which can become an unforgettable one.

Shopping in Bastia is more about seeking interesting and unique items rather than hunting trends and brands. The flea market on Place Saint-Nicolas is not only a place to buy or sell. For local people, it’s a meeting place. Tourists can come there to touch bric-a-brac and trinkets or shop finest products from the nearby small villages. One of the most bustling markets in whole Corsica will amaze visitors with its colors and variety of items for sale. Cheese, fruits, vegetables, charcuterie, and many more – the choice is, indeed, fantastic. The biggest Corsica’s weekend markets are open in 4 towns, namely, Ajaccio, Bastia, Calvi, and Ile-Rousse. Each of the markets is unique and helps to understand the region and its lifestyle better. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Tourists, who want to try the best wine in the area, can of course order some in local cafes, but there is a more interesting way to try different varieties of this ever popular drink. Only a short drive separates the town from the vineyards of Patrimonio. It’s an idyllic place where visitors can see how wine is made and, of course, enjoy sampling sessions.

The area near Bastia has many places that are very interesting to explore once you’re done with the town. One more advantage – there is no need to make long rides to reach these places, as the majority of them are within a few kilometers. For example, south of Bastia, there is a charming settlement of Murato. Visit it to see a very unusual old church, the façade of which is made of white and black stones that form an interesting pattern. Small sculptures complete the look. Another peaceful settlement, La Canonica, is also famous for two miraculously beautiful churches – Santa-Maria Assunta and San Parteo.

Fans of hiking and outdoor activities will also not be disappointed with Bastia. They are recommended to explore the hills behind the town. Apart from breath-taking views, there is the Upper Corniche route that crosses the town, leads to the coast, and then passes through several picturesque villages – Cardo, Montserrato, San-Martino-di-Lota, and Ville-de-Pietrabugno. This cycling-friendly route is great for everyone who wants to see the real rural Corsica. North of Bastia, there is a no less beautiful area – Cap Corse. It’s a magnificent peninsula with several cozy fishing villages and mountains. A tour to this area will definitely not disappoint travelers. Moreover, besides beautiful places and scenic viewpoints, there are charming beaches ideal for some sunbathing or swimming.