The Top 5 Neighborhoods in Ajaccio

Located on the island’s west coast, the city of Ajaccio grows more appealing every year. It owes its reputation—among both islanders and visitors—to the quality of life it offers, its exceptional seaside location, the beauty of its bay, and, finally, its size and cultural and economic vitality. If you’re planning a stay in the “Imperial City” or thinking about moving there, this article presents our selection of the 5 best neighborhoods to live in.

The Old Town

Whether you arrive in Ajaccio by land or by sea, the city center is sure to catch your eye. Ajaccio’s historic district delights the eye with its Mediterranean-style facades, and the bourgeois buildings in shades of ochre or pink, along with the typical narrow streets they line, give the area all its charm. The old town stretches along the waterfront and is bordered by the marina and commercial port, as well as by Cours Napoléon, the city’s main thoroughfare. At its center, Rue Fesch is renowned for its shops; now a pedestrian street, it invites visitors to take a stroll. As the true beating heart of Ajaccio, the neighborhood is a favorite spot for walks, much loved by the locals, who enjoy gathering there. The neighborhood offers plenty of things to enjoy. Why not head to the Place Foch Market to sample fresh, local specialties? The honey, charcuterie, and cheeses there are renowned… Or you could simply stroll around, window-shopping, or enjoy a drink on a sidewalk café while taking in the rhythm of the city. On the cultural side, at the Fesch Museum you’ll find a beautiful, unique collection of paintings by the Italian Primitives and other remarkable works. Also not to be missed are the Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Cathedral, the citadel’s ramparts, and the Bonaparte House, where Emperor Napoleon was born. Finally, Saint François Beach offers a magnificent natural setting for swimming enthusiasts right in the heart of the city.

The Sanguinary Islands

Located west of the city , Les Sanguinaires is undoubtedly Ajaccio’s most sought-after neighborhood. With its idyllic coastline—which has earned it its reputation—the area is a strip of land traversed by the Corniche Road, offering an incomparable view of Ajaccio Bay and leading you to the Pointe de la Parata and its archipelago of islets, renowned for sunsets bathed in a unique light that gives this remarkable area its name. This neighborhood is also rich in history; known since ancient times, it was Alphonse Daudet who described its landscapes, but it is Tino Rossi—the famous singer from Ajaccio, whose villa is still visible today—who has cemented Ajaccio’s status as a must-visit destination. The main attraction of this neighborhood is, of course, the unspoiled beauty of its beaches—just a stone’s throw from downtown—and the pristine natural surroundings, which are perfect for lovely walks. But it’s also home to a portfolio of high-end properties, consisting mainly of luxury apartments with ocean views.
As for beaches, Scudo and Vignola are among the most popular of the beaches in Ajaccio. They offer the chance to relax and enjoy a drink or dinner right by the water at one of the many seaside establishments located there. Living in Les Sanguinaires means having the opportunity to experience the very best that Corsica has to offer, just a few minutes from downtown.

Le Casone

It is this neighborhood’s location on the city’s hills that has earned this highly sought-after part of Ajaccio its reputation. It offers a unique view of the gulf and the mountains, and its residents are fortunate enough to admire the city’s most beautiful sunrises every day. This is a quiet, residential neighborhood where the real estate market offers a rare opportunity in the city center to own a beautiful villa in Ajaccio with a sea view. To get there, head up Boulevard Albert 1er to reach Place d’Austerlitz, which the locals call Le Casone and which features the majestic statue of Napoleon I. It is, of course, one of the city’s top tourist attractions, drawing many visitors each year. But this square—also known as “La Grotte”—has become a favorite spot for the people of Ajaccio to take a stroll and, depending on the season, enjoy the cool breeze or the sunshine along its tree-lined paths. People go there with their families or to meet up with friends, play pétanque, or read a book in the shade… It’s the heart of Ajaccio.

Porticcio

Although it is not strictly speaking a neighborhood of the city of Ajaccio, the village of Porticcio, due to its immediate proximity to the city, is one of the favorite places for Ajacciens to live. Located on the southern shore of the gulf, this charming seaside resort, lined with magnificent beaches, overlooks the city across the water. As a result, Ajaccio residents tend to consider Porticcio a neighborhood in its own right within the greater Ajaccio area. As you can see, what makes living in Porticcio so appealing is this breathtaking view of the bay, which offers residents and visitors a different spectacle every day—the region’s most beautiful sunsets. Another highlight of the area is, of course, its splendid beaches—the sea is always right there. Everyone has their own routines and favorite spot along the shore; there’s plenty to choose from, whether you’re looking to relax by the water on the weekend or planning a vacation here. You might prefer Viva Beach with its many activities, or Agosta Beach, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, or perhaps one of the many more secluded coves further south… You’ll be spoiled for choice. And after lounging around and enjoying a swim, why not treat yourself to a moment of relaxation at one of the local establishments to take in the panoramic view? If you choose to stay in Porticcio, you’re guaranteed a unique living environment, right on the water and just a few kilometers from the city.

The Foreigners’ Neighborhood

It is one of Ajaccio’s most picturesque neighborhoods and owes its name to its history as a former vacation destination for foreign tourists in the 19th century, who came here to enjoy Ajaccio’s mild climate. From this period, the neighborhood has inherited beautiful historic buildings, private mansions, and stately homes, which give the area its unique charm. Living in this historic setting is like reliving a bit of the Belle Époque—its carefree spirit and taste for luxury—and sharing in the memories of its illustrious visitors, including the painter Matisse and Miss Campbell, a Scottish aristocrat who chose to make Ajaccio her home. Amid all these facades and tree-lined streets, as you stroll through the neighborhood, you’ll notice the beauty of the Sacré Cœur Church, the Anglican Church, and the Palais Cyrnos, which once enjoyed an international reputation. Soak up this unique atmosphere as you stroll along the boulevards that lead down to the sea or take a break on the terrace of one of the historic brasseries. If you love the charm of the old days, then the Foreigners’ Quarter is for you, and you’re sure to find what you’re looking for if you choose to make it your home.

If you have a real estate project in Ajaccio and would like to invest in the region, or if you’re considering a comfortable stay in a luxury property in a prime location, our team will be happy to assist you in your search, and our real estate agency in Ajaccio welcomes you year-round.