A vibrant port town in northern Corsica, Bastia is a wonderful destination for those looking to experience both the charm of a historic old town and the buzz of a modern island community. This is also a beautiful region for keen hikers, cyclists and history buffs to explore and you’ll find that many of the best places to stay in Bastia are actually set in the surrounding hills or ancient villages. Some of our favourite Corsican honeymoon hotels are in this area, tucked within renovated manor houses with sublime countryside and ocean views.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bastia’s Vieux Port with a marina-side stroll, where you’ll spot fading pastel-coloured buildings overlooking rows of impressive yachts. The little alleyways of Terra-Vecchia and Terra-Nova — home to Bastia’s Citadel — are also well worth a wander. Fill your bags at the Place de l'Hotel de Ville’s weekend market, or hunt for bargains at the Place St. Nicolas’ Sunday flea market before picking a perch at a bustling café. The Palais des Gouverneurs, Eglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste and Romieu Gardens are also highlights.

Soak up the sun at the beach, discover hiking and mountain biking trails in the surrounding hills, or explore lovely Erbalunga village and seaside Saint-Florent. All are within a short drive of the best places to stay in Bastia.

The Best Places to Stay in Bastia

For a Central Stay

• Hôtel des Gouverneurs is a chic boutique bolthole with stylish rooms offering sea views, private terraces and smart bathrooms. The indoor pool and wellness centre are a highlight, as is the trendy lounge bar. Brilliant for exploring central Bastia on foot as a couple or with friends and family.

For Romance

• Demeure Castel Brando, in the village of Erbalunga, is a beautiful 19th-century stone house with green-painted shutters, vaulted ceilings and terracotta floors. Expect exotic gardens, two swimming pools, a hot tub and an atmospheric eatery — Les Américains — championing local producers and classic Corsican cuisine. Romantic, and close to the coast. Sublime.
• La Dimora, tucked south of Bastia and Saint-Florent, is a renovated 17th-century farm with lush Mediterranean gardens, elegant rooms and villas — some with private pools — and an inviting spa and swimming pool. One for romantic couples or honeymooners.
• Aethos Corsica offers minimalist, white-on-white suites in a restored 300-year-old mansion. Hidden in Oletta, in the hills of northern Corsica, this design-led idyll promises a supremely serene stay. The olive and palm-studded garden also features a swimming pool. Gorgeous.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY Villa

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Bastia Airport and travel into town by bus or taxi. Speak to your hotel about arranging an airport pick-up in advance. Alternatively, take the ferry from Marseille, Toulon Nice or Nivorno to Bastia.
• Corsica is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the spring or summer for the warmest weather, with temperatures peaking around 27°C in June to August — although this is also the busiest time of year. Visit in May or September for a quieter trip.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Saint-Florent.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Corsica.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.