Top 10 things to do in Bastia

May 19, 2010

Top 10 things to do in Bastia

Having picked up your hired car at Bastia Airport you’re all set to visit the lovely Bastia,  situated in the north east of Corsica.  Bastia is the principal port of the island  and you are sure to have a wonderful time in Bastia.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 1.

Place St Nicolas

This is where the markets are held and also special events. The area has loads of bars and restaurants and looks the place for a night out.   On Sunday morning in the Place St Nicolas there is a flea market where you can find old postcards of the island, stamps or antiques.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 2.

The Vieux port Bastia

A really pretty harbour with little boats and restaurants around it  Enjoy a leisurely stroll around or a meal or snack at one of the restaurants.  Explore the wonderful streets of this neighbourhood.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 3.

Churches & Historic Interest

Nearby amongst many others is the Oratoire de l’Immaculee Conception where you’ll find the Baroque interior of red velvet and chandeliers, and a copy of Murillo’s Immaculate Conception hung over the altar.

The Palace of the Governors painted in yellow/orange, would be worth a visit to the  Musee d’Ethnographie Corse.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 4.

Beaches

Drive your hire car north to find the beaches. Iimmediately to the north of Bastia are rocky and beautiful beaches with little coves. Follow the sign to the Cap Corse and discover  more lovely beaches at Miomo or drive south to the La Marana beaches sandwiched between the Biguglia lagoon and the sea.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 5.

Siesta Time!!

from noon to 2pm almost all shops are closed. Some restaurants do stay open.  Bastia is quiet around this time. A bit difficult for us as tourists! So make sure you have a hired car  then you can spend  time enjoying a picnic  on one of the beaches perhaps.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 6.

Night Life

Bastia has a very vibrant music/theatre/art scene for its size!  In the mid October Bastia holds its “Musicales de Bastia” from 18:30 until the early hours. Musicians from all around the world as well as  Corsican attend. Its great fun.  It takes place all around town, but the main stage is in Place St. Nicolas.

Top 10 things to do in Bastia 7.

Dining Out in Bastia

The Concorde Pizzeria is usually crowded with people it must be the favourite restaurant local people too!  The Pizza is so delicious, the pasta amazing, and lovely Corsican wine!  For dessert fabulous Italian Ice Cream.

For picnics or snacks there’s  a great bakery  in Bastia. Its a very small place with a good selection and huge queues! Dont let that bother you because they bake traditional Corsican cakes.   It’s at the end of Rue Cesar Campinci.

Theres’s Middle Eastern and Corsican Food!  There is a wonderful rich mezze of Lebanese/Israeli salads/starters.  The mezze and the dish of the day and the freshly baked cheese cakes are a treat!!!!!

Le Pirate:   A restaurant with a view too!  This is one of the most expensive and finest restaurants on the Island, but is worth every penny!

I hope you enjoy all of the Top 10 things to do in Bastia.