Corsica's rich cultural heritage has been shaped by a myriad of civilizations including the Saracens, Goths, Vandals, Romans, and Carthaginians, all leaving their mark on this unique island. Despite being a part of France since 1768, Corsica's Italian influence remains palpable, creating an extraordinary and unforgettable destination.

Things to see and do

• Visit Napoleon Bonaparte’s former house in Ajaccio, the capital of Corsica. The beautifully-preserved childhood home is now a museum whose collection includes a death mask of the emperor.

• Discover the historic Citadel of Calvi, a massive 13th Century citadel that has fended off attacks from raiders and protected the city from invaders. The citadel’s old town is crisscrossed by stairways, tunnels and walkways that make for an interesting stroll.

• Relax at the beautiful beaches of Porto Vecchio. Some of the most famous are Palombaggia, Santa Giulia and Pinarello.

• Head to Corsica’s northern tip and explore Cap Corse’s perched villages, rocky cliffs, pretty ports and lush hills.

• Look out towards Sardinia from the canon positions of Bonifacio Citadel. The walls were erected in the mid-16th Century to guard the small harbour town against Turkish corsairs and the Kingdom of Aragon.

• Drop by the mountain top Chapelle de Notre Dame de la Serra for outstanding vistas of the Bay of Calvi.

• Take a boat from the port of Calvi and and take in the full beauty of Scandola Nature Reserve on a 3-hour tour. Volcanic headlands, red cliffs, grottoes and coves are just some of the incredible sights that await visitors in the UNESCO-listed reserve.