Ferry or Fly to Corsica: Which is Best?

Which is the best way to reach Corsica?

One of the first decisions you’ll make when planning a holiday to Corsica is whether to travel by ferry or fly. Both options have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your budget, how long you’re staying and the type of holiday you’re planning.

If you’re bringing your own car, camping equipment or planning to explore several regions of the island, travelling by ferry offers unrivalled flexibility. If you’re looking for the quickest and most convenient journey, flying to one of Corsica’s four airports before hiring a car may be the better option.

At a Glance

Best for Touring: Ferry

Best for Short Breaks: Fly

Bring Your Own Car: Ferry

Fastest Journey: Fly

Best for Camping Equipment: Ferry

Best Option: Depends on your holiday style

Why Choose Carefully?

Corsica is an island made for exploring. From the dramatic cliffs of Bonifacio and the beautiful beaches of Palombaggia to the mountain villages hidden deep in the interior, there’s so much to discover beyond your campsite.

How you travel to Corsica can influence your entire holiday. Some visitors enjoy the freedom of having their own vehicle and all their camping equipment with them, while others prefer the simplicity of flying and collecting a hire car on arrival.

Neither option is right or wrong. The key is choosing the one that best suits your holiday plans.

Travelling by Ferry

For many campers, travelling by ferry is the preferred way to reach Corsica. Ferries operate from mainland France and Italy throughout the year, with additional crossings during the busy summer season.

One of the biggest advantages is being able to take your own vehicle. Whether you’re driving a family car packed with camping gear, towing equipment or simply wanting the familiarity of your own vehicle, the ferry gives you complete flexibility once you arrive.

There’s also no need to worry about airline baggage restrictions. Folding chairs, beach equipment, bicycles, paddleboards and everything else that makes a camping holiday comfortable can travel with you.

The journey itself is often part of the holiday. Watching Corsica’s rugged mountains appear on the horizon as your ferry approaches the island is an unforgettable experience and a memorable way to begin your adventure.

Advantages of Travelling by Ferry

Bring your own car
No airline baggage restrictions
Ideal for camping equipment
Suitable for pets on many routes
Greater flexibility for touring holidays
A scenic arrival into Corsica

Flying to Corsica

Flying is the quickest and most convenient option, particularly for visitors travelling from further afield or planning a shorter stay.

Corsica has four international airports at Bastia, Ajaccio, Figari and Calvi, making it easy to reach every part of the island. Once you arrive, car hire is available at each airport, allowing you to explore independently during your stay.

Flying is especially popular with couples, families enjoying a week’s holiday and anyone who prefers to travel light. Modern hire cars are widely available, and many campsites are within an easy drive of the island’s airports.

For visitors with limited holiday time, flying allows you to maximise the time spent enjoying Corsica rather than travelling.

Advantages of Flying

Fast and convenient
Ideal for shorter holidays
Four airports across the island
Easy car hire on arrival
Often the quickest option from the UK and much of Europe
Perfect for travelling light

Which Option is Best for Camping?

If you’re staying at one campsite and travelling with only a few suitcases, flying followed by car hire is often the simplest solution.

However, if you’re planning a touring holiday, carrying lots of camping equipment or simply enjoy the freedom of driving your own vehicle, travelling by ferry is difficult to beat.

Many experienced visitors choose the ferry because it allows them to pack everything they need without worrying about luggage allowances. It also makes exploring Corsica’s quieter beaches, mountain villages and scenic roads incredibly easy.

Ultimately, the best choice comes down to convenience, budget and the type of holiday you’re hoping to enjoy.

Top Tips

Book Early During Peak Season

Ferries, flights and hire cars are all in high demand during July and August. Booking several months ahead usually provides the best prices and availability.

Think About Your Itinerary

If you’re staying in South Corsica, arriving into Figari may save several hours of driving. Likewise, Bastia is ideal for exploring the north and east of the island.

Compare the Total Cost

Don’t just compare ferry fares with flight prices. Consider luggage charges, car hire, fuel and any additional travel costs before deciding which option offers the best value.

Consider the Journey

For many visitors, the ferry crossing becomes part of the holiday experience. Others simply want to arrive as quickly as possible. Think about which style of travel suits you best.

Nearby Travel Guides

Continue planning your Corsican camping holiday with our helpful travel guides.

Stay Nearby

Whether you arrive by ferry or plane, you’ll find handpicked campsites across North, East and South Corsica waiting to welcome you. From family-friendly holiday parks close to the beach to peaceful countryside retreats surrounded by nature, there’s a perfect campsite for every type of Corsican adventure.