Ajaccio City Guide

Local food features Corsican charcuterie, cheeses, wild boar stew, and seafood. International food mostly Italian and French. Vegetarian and vegan spots exist but require searching. Late-night food is limited mainly to bars and a few restaurants.

Nightlife is moderate, with bars and some clubs near the port and old town, livelier in summer.

Coffee culture centers on traditional French and Italian styles. Specialty coffee shops are few but quality espresso is easy to find.

Tipping is optional; service charge is included in bills. Small tips for good service are appreciated but not required.

Buy SIM cards in phone shops or big supermarkets. Main providers are Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. ID needed for activation.

Ajaccio is clean especially in the city center and tourist areas. Waste management is reliable.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies operate on-call. Few late-night food options mostly during tourist season.

Supermarkets like Carrefour, Géant Casino, and Leclerc have international products, but less variety than big cities. Fresh markets offer local cheeses and produce. Shops mostly close Sunday and holidays.

Card payments work in most shops, restaurants, and hotels. Still, carry some cash for small markets or rural spots.

ATMs are common around banks and busy areas. Check your bank for any international withdrawal fees.

Local French public and private schools are available. International schools with English as main language are limited.

The digital nomad scene is small with few formal meetups or co-living spaces. Networking is mostly informal in cafes or coworking spaces.

Good parks and green areas provide shade and space for outdoor activities.

Popular running routes include the coastal promenade and city parks. Running is safe with good air quality.

Multiple gyms offer fitness classes and equipment.

Tennis courts are at local clubs like Tennis Club d'Ajaccio. Courts are mainly clay or hard surfaces with coaching options.

Padel courts are emerging but not widespread yet.

Several yoga studios offer different styles. English-speaking instructors are rare but classes are usually open to drop-ins.

Dojo options include judo and karate. Some boxing and combat fitness clubs exist. English instruction is not common.

Ski resorts are a 1.5-2 hour drive away with short seasons. Best for beginners and intermediates.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular along the coast with rentals and guided tours.

Surfing is popular at Capo di Feno, about 25 minutes from Ajaccio. Conditions best in autumn and winter with spots for all levels. Surf rentals and schools available.

Good dive sites around Ajaccio and Sanguinaires Islands, offering clear waters and marine life. Equipment rentals and certifications available.

Ajaccio has hospitals like Centre Hospitalier de la Miséricorde. Some staff speak English, but basic French helps. Pharmacies have usual meds and some offer 24/7 on-call services.

Tap water in Ajaccio is generally drinkable.

There are playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and baby supplies in shops. Beaches, parks, and Napoleon's birthplace suit families.

Generally safe and accepting with legal protections similar to mainland France. No dedicated LGBTQ venues.

Pet-friendly with many places welcoming dogs. Vet clinics and pet stores are available. Walking spots along the coast and parks.