If I talk to you about large sandy beaches, a magnificent citadel, a breathtaking bay, a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and a little train that runs between the beach and the pine forest, you think to a heavenly place on the other side of the world? Well no, it is quite simply the charming town of Calvi in Corsica. In this new article with Corsican accents, I take you to visit Calvi! I have always loved this city, its atmosphere, its port, its city center and its beach. So today, I propose to answer the question: What to do in Calvi? We will see all the places to visit, things to see, activities to do, but also things to do around Calvi.
We will also discuss the subject of housing. You can very easily stay several days in Calvi, so you will have to answer the question: Where to sleep in Calvi?
You will also find various practical tips for organizing your stay in Calvi. Ready for a visit to Calvi? Attention, blow of heart assured!
- Take a walk in its historic center
- Visit the Citadel of Calvi
- Enjoy the port of Calvi
- Rest on its fine sandy beach
- Nautical activities in Calvi
- Enjoy a boat trip from Calvi
- Take the little train to Ile Rousse
- Visit the Scandola Reserve
- Getting to the villages of Balagne
- Discover the coast road to reach Galeria
- Explore the Calanques de Piana
- Hike around Calvi
- Go to the Agriates Desert
- Which district to choose to stay in Calvi?
- The most beautiful accommodations in Calvi
- The most accessible accommodation in Calvi
Practical advice for visiting Calvi
- How to come to Calvi?
- Where to park in Calvi?
- How long does it take to visit Calvi?
- When to visit Calvi?
- Where to rent a boat in Calvi?
- Where to eat and go out in Calvi?
My opinion on this visit to Calvi
What to do in Calvi?
I will start this article by presenting you what to do in Calvi. You will see that Calvi is a fairly concentrated town and that it is easy to go around it during the day. On the other hand, you will also be able to find that Calvi is a city where it is pleasant to walk and spend a few days of vacation. Let's take a quick look at the things to do and visit in Calvi in Balagne.
- Take a walk in its historic center
- Visit the Citadel of Calvi
- Enjoy the port of Calvi
- Rest on its fine sandy beach
- Nautical activities in Calvi
- Enjoy a boat trip from Calvi
Take a walk in its historic center
To start this visit to Calvi, I suggest you take a tour of its historic center. You will discover a maze of small pedestrian and cobbled streets. Its alleys are surrounded by beautiful, very colorful old buildings. This set allows a shaded and very pleasant walk. In summer, its streets are lively day and night. You will find many shops and restaurants with terraces. If you are looking for local specialties, fresh products, clothes, accessories, … Then you will be in the right place.
This historic center is concentrated between Calvi station, the port and the Citadel. Depending on where you are located on the beach, you can perfectly reach the port of Calvi with your feet in the water, then visit the historic center before returning to the beach.
Visit the Citadel of Calvi
As an extension of old Calvi, I strongly recommend that you visit the Citadel of Calvi. The latter is very easily recognizable and can be seen from afar, since it majestically dominates the Gulf of Calvi. From the beach, you will have a magnificent view of the Citadel.
But the interior is also worth a look. You can reach it easily on foot from the city center. The entrance climbs a little and the streets are also cobbled, but once at the top of the Citadel, the view over the bay of Calvi, the town center and the surrounding area is simply breathtaking! The spectacle offered by the different colors of the water is sumptuous. Once you've had your eyes full, you can find a small café where you can have a drink in the Citadel, in the shade of the alleys and old buildings.
If you wish, there are a few places to visit within the Citadel. I am thinking in particular of the Museum of Arts of the Citadel of Calvi or the religious heritage which is worth the detour. You also have the option of opting for an audio guide available at the city's tourist office. You will learn more about the rich history of this emblematic city. In fact, you will probably pass a house with a plaque indicating that this is where the explorer Christopher Columbus was born! His precise place of birth is not known, but Corsican oral traditions are clear: he was born in Calvi, when the city was under Genoese domination. Other hypotheses rather opt for a birth in Gene. Unfortunately, no evidence at this time can confirm either hypothesis.
Enjoy the port of Calvi
Located in the continuation of the large beach of Calvi, the port of Calvi is a place where it is very pleasant to walk. Walking, you will have on one side the beautiful terraces of cafes, bars and restaurants; and on the other, sumptuous and luxurious boats and yachts. A few years ago, the pontoons leading to boat entrances were accessible. You could thus admire these giant dwellings more closely. Today, these accesses have been closed and are reserved for the occupants of the boats. You will therefore have to settle for an observation from the main quay, but it already gives a very good overview!
The port of Calvi is a perfect place to eat an ice cream during the afternoon, but also to come and have a drink and eat in the evening. The view of the bay is magnificent and this corner of Calvi is alive.
Rest on its fine sandy beach
Visiting is good, but Calvi is also famous for its huge fine sandy beach! On a little less than 3 kilometers, you will find as well:
- free sand spaces where to put your towel;
- many restaurants with their feet in the sand;
- restaurant beaches equipped with deckchairs and parasols;
- nautical activities which we are talking about just after;
- a railway line on the edge of a pine forest;
- and a tree climbing close to the beach for the youngest.
As you will have understood, Calvi beach is the ideal place to rest and enjoy the beach. In addition, it has some very practical advantages such as transparent and warm water, a bay sheltered from the wind and waves when the sea is rough, a long stretch of sand during which you will have water below your knees, perfect if you come to Calvi with young children.
Nautical activities in Calvi
As briefly mentioned just before, Calvi beach is the perfect place for young people and water sports enthusiasts! Among other things, you can:
- rent paddles or canoe kayak,
- make towed buoys such as banana or round buoys,
- rent a jet ski,
- enjoy inflatable games,
- rent windsurf boards, …
Sensational activities or activities for the youngest, you will have plenty to keep you busy in Calvi!
You can also take the opportunity to go diving or snorkeling. Indeed, the seabed is one of the most beautiful in Corsica, so why not take advantage of it?
First dive: see prices
Snorkeling excursion: see prices
Diving course over several days: see prices
Enjoy a boat trip from Calvi
Last activity to do in Calvi: a boat trip to discover the Corsican coasts and the rich maritime heritage of the region. The main excursions will be to visit the Scandola Reserve, to get to Revellata or even to go to Agriates.
Depending on the excursion you opt for, you can enjoy a swimming and snorkeling break to admire the seabed.
4-hour cruise in Scandola: see prices
6-hour cruise in Scandola and Girolata: see prices
La Revellata cruise at sunset: see prices
What to do around Calvi?
Now that you know everything there is to do in Calvi, I offer you a small overview of everything you can do around Calvi! If you stay several days in Calvi, you will probably have time to explore the hidden treasures of this beautiful region that is Balagne.
- Take the little train to Ile Rousse
- Visit the Scandola Reserve
- Getting to the villages of Balagne
- Discover the coast road to reach Galeria
- Explore the Calanques de Piana
- Hike around Calvi
- Go to the Agriates Desert
Take the little train to Ile Rousse
Let's start with this mythical and emblematic essential of Calvi, the "Micheline" as it is called. This little train worthy of films connects different towns in Corsica including Calvi and Ile Rousse. Take a seat aboard this iconic Micheline and let yourself be carried to Ile Rousse along the coast. You will have absolutely magnificent landscapes that can only be seen by train. The journey takes about 45 minutes and can serve up to fifteen stops. In high season, you have connections every day and throughout the day. To find out more, you can go to the Le Train Corse website.
Otherwise, Île Rousse is a city to visit, whether you are by car or train. Its historic and colorful center is very pretty. You will find a beautiful square surrounded by bars and restaurants, and a pretty covered market. The beach is also nice. Ile Rousse is very different from Calvi since it is alive all year round. Many Corsicans live on Île Rousse all year round.
Visit the Scandola Reserve
One of the prides of Corsica and an indisputable natural gem, the Scandola Reserve is both a marine and terrestrial reserve. Here, biodiversity is king. It is protected and preserved in order to allow the various animal and plant spaces to be able to live there peacefully, whether on land or in the sea. Planning an excursion to this reserve is one of the essential things to do around Calvi. I highly recommend a boat trip, it's the best way to enjoy it. The red rocks, the seabed, the small coves and beaches inaccessible from the mainland or the pretty village of Girolata will no longer hold any secrets for you.
Read our article: Visit the Scandola Reserve
Getting to the villages of Balagne
Calvi is located in Balagne, as is its neighboring Île Rousse. This region of Corsica stretches from Galeria in the south to Île Rousse in the north, and has small, typically Corsican villages to visit. The most famous are located right on the heights of Calvi. I recommend you go to Sant'Antonino, Calenzana, Lumio or Zilia where one of the main mineral waters of Corsica comes from. Personally, I have a little crush on the village of Sant'Antonino. It is entirely pedestrian in order to preserve its authenticity. The younger ones will enjoy discovering it on the backs of Corsican donkeys.
Otherwise, for a slightly more original visit, you can explore the abandoned village of Occi, above Lumio. You will find a breathtaking view of the surroundings with the sea in the background. To access it, you will have to take one of the paths. Indeed, this place is not accessible by car in order to preserve it. To find out more, you can consult the official website of the Balagne tourist office.
Discover the coast road to reach Galeria
Different roads arrive in Calvi, but one of them is particularly beautiful and typical. On the other hand, it is a real Corsican road, namely that it turns a lot and is not always very wide. On the other hand, the view you will have from this road is worth the detour!
To take it, leave Calvi in the direction of Notre-Dame-de-la-Serra. Besides, you can make a stop there. It is a chapel dating from the XNUMXth century offering an exceptional view of Calvi and its bay.
Once on this road, continue following Galeria/Porto/Ajaccio. Galeria will be your arrival point. This pretty little village is ideal for swimming, spending an evening or even a night. If you are afraid of the car, then you can reach Galeria by the interior road via the Marsulinu pass.
You will also find next to the beach, the Fango delta. At this place, you have the possibility of renting canoes to explore this delta, classified for the richness of its biodiversity. The calm of this peaceful place will seize you. I'm not talking about the multitude of species that you can observe, such as the famous pond turtles.
Explore the Calanques de Piana
Another natural jewel of the region, the Calanques de Piana. You can admire them by taking the road linking Galeria and Ajaccio. Probably one of the most beautiful roads in Corsica, or even in France, you can admire an exceptional panorama between sculpted rocks, turquoise sea, narrow road, natural tunnel, … A real marvel to discover.
Be careful, in high season, this place is very popular with visitors. It will therefore take a lot of patience to do this little winding road.
It is best to visit the Calanques de Piana by car. But you can also opt for a boat trip where the show will be quite different.
Hike around Calvi
Calvi is located in an exceptional and rich region, where the hikes are numerous, diverse and for all levels and all desires. The two main trails that I invite you to discover will be:
- The famous GR20:
One of the most difficult and physically demanding Grandes Randonnees trails. The start of the northern portion is in Calenzana, about 20 minutes drive from Calvi. You can choose to do only one or more steps, or to do it all. Attention, preparation and good equipment will be imperative. In addition, find out well before you leave, the mountain can be capricious and every year, serious accidents occur as a result of unconscious acts. - Between the sea and the mountains:
This path leads to Calenzana in Cargèse, south of Piana. You will have the chance to follow paths between sea and mountains, with breathtaking views.
If you want more hikes to do around Calvi, you can take a look at this website: corse-randos.com
Girolata and its gulf
Go to the Agriates Desert
To finish on the things to do around Calvi, here is an amazing and unique place in Corsica: the Agriates Desert. This place is made up of a vast land area that used to be cultivated land; but also a beautiful coastal part, where you will find very beautiful beaches. The Agriates Desert is roughly located between Île Rousse and Saint-Florent. The main beaches to see will be that of Saleccia and that of Lotu. Beautiful sandy beaches, accessible on foot, by boat or via tracks for 4×4 vehicles, spending a day on one of these beaches is worth it.
If you want to visit this desert on foot, you can take the Sentier des Douaniers des Agriates. In total, 35 km connect the Ostriconi beach to Saint-Florent.
Where to sleep in Calvi?
Visiting Calvi can very well be done during the day, but I recommend that you spend at least one night, or even more. The question of accommodation in Calvi will therefore arise: where to sleep, in which neighborhood to stay, etc. In this section, I answer all these questions which, I hope, will help you in preparing for your stay.
- Which district to choose to stay in Calvi?
- The most beautiful accommodations in Calvi
- The most accessible accommodation in Calvi
Which district to choose to stay in Calvi?
If you are looking for accommodation inside Calvi, the choice will be concentrated on the edge of the beach, along the avenue Christophe Colomb; in the city center or in the heart of the Citadel; or at the exit of Calvi, on the road to Porto.
- You want to visit the city:
Opt for accommodation in the center. Certainly the budget will be a little higher, but you will benefit from an exceptional location. The outskirts of this district can offer substantially the same quality of location, but at more reasonable budgets. - You want to enjoy the beach:
I advise you to choose accommodation along Avenue Christophe Colomb. You just have to cross the road to access the beach. You will also have all the conveniences such as mini-market, market gardener, … - You plan to rent a house:
It is quite possible to wish to stay in a detached house during your stay. In this case, certain areas will be more conducive to this type of accommodation, such as the heights of Calvi or along the road to Porto.
The most beautiful accommodations in Calvi
To begin our suggestion of places to stay in Calvi, here are some of the most beautiful addresses in Calvi. If you are looking for a luxurious establishment where to spend a night or more, a safe bet, a typically Corsican place, then you cannot miss La Signoria and its starred restaurant. I present it to you in detail now.
The Signoria
To begin, I present to you here one of the most beautiful addresses in the region, if not the most beautiful! A prestigious place where refinement is essential. You will have the chance to experience an exceptional stay in the heart of a very appreciable wooded area. The on-site services are worthy of a luxury hotel with a valet who takes care of bringing your suitcases to your room. As for the room, a marvel! Exquisite comfort, chic decoration and depending on the type of accommodation you choose, a small private pool awaits you on the outdoor terrace. Otherwise, you can enjoy the spa, the heated swimming pool or the fitness area. Finally, the restaurant is decorated with a Michelin star. An exceptional address to discover at the entrance to Calvi. Luxury, Location, Comfort Show prices
Hotel Corsica & Spa
Let's continue with this magnificent establishment located at the entrance to Calvi, inland. Up high, you will have a splendid and panoramic view of Calvi in the distance and its magnificent bay dominated by the Citadel. The welcome of this hotel, its standing, the quality of the services on site and the comfort of the room will surely satisfy you. An enchanting stay where it will be pleasant to take a break in the relaxation and spa area. Calm, Sea view, Spa area
Hotel L'Abbaye
For this last establishment, I offer accommodation located at the entrance to the historic center of Calvi, a stone's throw from the port and the beach. Occupying a former monastery, you can enjoy a pleasant garden and a beautiful swimming pool. A place where the charm of the old is perfectly highlighted. A modern but classic decoration. A breakfast with fresh products will be offered. The staff are friendly and the rooms are comfortable. Location, Sea view, Swimming pool
The most accessible accommodation in Calvi
Now let's move on to the more accessible accommodation you can find in Calvi. Prices vary depending on the tourist season, but you will find rooms at rates around a hundred euros.
Hotel Casa Bianca
Here is a first hotel located not far from the Hôtel de l'Abbaye, presented in the previous section. You will be in a more modern setting but just as well placed, a few steps from the port and the historic center. The advantage of this establishment is the provision of parking for its customers. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean. The reception is completely professional and the breakfast very good. Location, Sea view, Reception See rates
Hotel Wave
This second budget hotel is located at the entrance to Calvi, just a few meters from the beach. It provides its customers with a very appreciable parking lot. You will be ten minutes walk from the historic center of Calvi and you have all the necessary amenities at the foot of the hotel. As for the rooms, they will be comfortable, clean and air-conditioned! Special mention for the very modern and trendy decoration of this place. Location, Reception, Price See prices
Hotel Cyrnea
Here is a last hotel rather accessible for its location and the services offered. It is located at the entrance to Calvi, 200 meters from the beach and around 25 minutes' walk from the port of Calvi. In summer, you will be faster on foot, but out of season, in 5 minutes by car you will be in the center of Calvi. The welcome is exceptional, the homemade breakfast is very good and the rooms are very comfortable and extremely clean. A very nice place to sleep in Calvi with a swimming pool as a bonus. Location, Sea view, Reception See rates
This part devoted to accommodation in Calvi is coming to an end. But before moving on to practical advice, know that it is also possible to rent apartments or houses in Calvi, just as it is possible to sleep in campsites in Calvi. Various campsites are located at the entrance to Calvi and are therefore perfect for enjoying the beach and visiting the city on a reasonable budget.
View all accommodations in CalviPractical advice for visiting Calvi
We have now arrived at the various practical tips that could be useful to you in organizing your stay in Calvi! If you can't find the answer to your question, feel free to leave us a comment so that we can update this article.
How to come to Calvi?
Several options are available to you to reach Calvi. The easiest and most practical way to stay in Corsica is by car. But we will see that there are other possibilities.
Coming to Calvi by CAR
The car remains the most practical way to get around Corsica. It will therefore be very easy to get to Calvi by car. The main road that allows you to reach Calvi will be the one that passes through Île Rousse and then joins Bastia or Corte. You can also arrive via the Côte de la Côte road to the south, but the latter, as we mentioned earlier, is a winding and narrower road. But if you arrive from Ajaccio by the Calanques de Piana, then you can arrive here.
In a next part, we will see the parking possibilities in Calvi.
Coming to Calvi by FERRY
Shipping companies do not serve Calvi directly, but Île Rousse, just next door. So if you want to arrive in Corsica by ferry not far from Calvi, you will have to arrive at Île Rousse. You will be about a 30 minute drive away. To find out more about the boats that serve Corsica, I invite you to read our dedicated article.
Read our article: Which ferry for Corsica?
Coming to Calvi by TRAIN
We talked about the Micheline, the train linking Calvi and Île Rousse, a little higher. This is the Corsica Train which offers different lines connecting the main cities of the island. These trains do not go very fast, but they cross absolutely magnificent landscapes! So if you want to visit Corsica by train, it is quite possible. On the other hand, once in the cities, you will be limited in your movements without a car. Public transport is scarce and goes little outside the cities. But you can always rent a car on site for the day, for example.
Coming to Calvi by PLANE
Calvi is a small town, yes, but Calvi has its own airport! Some cities such as Brest, Lille, Lyon or Nantes will offer flights once or twice a week during the summer season. Some connections will be maintained throughout the year. These are flights connecting Calvi with Paris, Marseille and Nice. These flights are offered every day in summer and all year round.
See all flights to CalviWhere to park in Calvi?
If you arrive in Calvi by car, the question of parking will arise. Especially if you visit Calvi in the middle of the summer season, you will see that the car parks are quickly taken by storm! Here are the different places where you can park:
- In the pine forest, along the beach: if you come to the beach, then prefer the pine forest. It is quite extensive and starts at the entrance to Calvi, saving you from having to enter the town. You will find different entrances to access the pine forest.
- In the large car park opposite the Super U: here you will find a large car park, paying, which is located at the entrance to the historic center, just behind the station and the port. It's located very well. And in theory, there is often space in this parking lot. On the other hand, it will be necessary to enter Calvi, which can take a little time in high season.
- In the Citadel car park: located on the other side of the city center, the citadel car park is very pleasant if you want to visit the historic center, the Citadel or the port. Paid parking also.
- In the port car park: on the port, you will find a small shaded car park. It is very well placed, but quite small. So in low season, you will surely find a place, but in high season, it will be more complicated.
How long does it take to visit Calvi?
The length of your stay in Calvi will depend on what you want to do in Calvi and what you want to visit.
What to do in Calvi in 1 day?
Coming to Calvi for a day will allow you to visit the town and the Citadel. You will also have time to take a walk on the port and why not on the beach. Calvi is quite small and concentrated. One day is enough to go around.
What to do in Calvi in 2 days?
If you choose to spend a night in Calvi, which is a great idea, especially in summer, then you will have time to visit the town. On the second day, you can either enjoy a lazy day at the beach. Or plan an excursion around Calvi: to the Scandola reserve, in the villages of Balagne or take the coast road for example.
Stay in Calvi for a week
Many visitors come to spend an entire week in Calvi. This choice can be a good idea! Indeed, staying in Calvi allows you to enjoy the city as well as the beach. And when you wish, you can make the various visits and excursions presented above around Calvi. There's enough to see to keep you busy for the whole week! And then if you are in Corsica in summer, it is also to enjoy your holidays and rest on the edge of the delicious fine sandy beach of Calvi.
When to visit Calvi?
The city of Calvi lives to the rhythm of the tourist seasons! Having gone there in different seasons, I can tell you that it has nothing to do between winter and the height of July. Indeed, many restaurants and shops are closed in the middle of winter and the streets are empty.
So if you want to visit a lively city, you will have to go to Calvi between the months of May and October.
On the other hand, throughout the year, the charm of the city, and especially of its beach and its Citadel, remains intact! What a pleasure to walk along the beach in the middle of winter, when it is deserted.
Regarding the weather, it rarely drops below 10 degrees in winter. And in summer, temperatures are stable around 30 degrees. You are likely to have rain between the months of November and February. The climate is therefore rather mild.
Where to rent a boat in Calvi?
One of the favorite activities of holidaymakers, as well as locals, will be to rent a boat to go and sail freely along the coast. Depending on whether you have a boat license or not, you can rent a boat with a more or less large engine.
Boat rental platforms between individuals have been widely developed in recent years, such as SamBoat or Click&Boat.
Otherwise, specialized rental agencies located in Corsica also offer this kind of service, such as Tra Mare e Monti or CN Calvi. Tra Mare e Monti also offers license-free boat rentals.
Where to eat and go out in Calvi?
As mentioned many times, Calvi is a dynamic city in the middle of summer! You will have a wide choice of bars, restaurants and festive outings! Do not hesitate to get lost in the alleys of the city and the Citadel to find a charming little bar. Or go to the port, beautiful terraces await you.
Otherwise, you can go for sure values such as these few examples:
- Chez Tao: A veritable institution in Calvi, this dancing bar is located in the heart of the Citadel. A unique, old place, with a view of the bay of Calvi.
- U Fanale: This is a very pleasant little restaurant. Typical regional cuisine in a peaceful environment. It is located at the exit of Calvi, on the coast road. Recommended by the Michelin guide.
- The Lordship: Recently awarded a star by the famous Michelin guide, this restaurant showcases local specialities. The setting is sumptuous, outside Calvi, in the heart of a pine forest.
- A Funtana : small typical restaurant nestled in the heart of the historic center. A delicious cuisine based on fresh and local products.
Finally, we cannot talk about going out in Calvi without mentioning one of the most important festivals in the city: Calvi On The Rocks. For 5 days, many concerts are organized on several beaches and other unusual places in the city. 5 days of celebration punctuated by the biggest stars of electro: Bob Sinclar, Feder, Synapson, Martin Solveig, The Do, ...
My opinion on this visit to Calvi
Despite all the affection I have for this city, I will try to give you a personal opinion while remaining as objective as possible. Calvi is a city where I have been going almost every summer for many years! I'm starting to know it well and yet it's always a pleasure to go back. Sign of holidays par excellence, Calvi is a city that can be discovered at the Corsican pace: a quiet stroll in the shady alleys in the morning, an ice cream break on the port and an afternoon lazing on the beach. Fine sand is not what I prefer, but this beach is very pleasant and large enough for all holidaymakers! The view of the Citadel is magnificent, the water is at the perfect temperature and the panorama of the surrounding mountains is just incredible!
But what I prefer is spending one or more evenings there. The atmosphere is festive and good-natured. There are many restaurants and bars, the evenings are mild and it's nice to be able to enjoy the terraces until late!
Every summer, various events are organized in Calvi: concerts, fireworks, festivals, … My favorite remains a concert of Corsican songs on the port or in a church in the city. These moments are very pleasant and are really part of the local culture.
To conclude, even if Calvi is a rather small town, it is impossible to get bored! The surroundings also have some very nice surprises in store for you, such as the Scandola Reserve or Galéria with the Fango delta, but let's save a few surprises for your stay in Calvi.
