From Olbia: Full day trip to Corsica

Exciting Day Trip from Olbia to Corsica’s Bonifacio with Ferry and Guided Tour

This full-day trip from Olbia, Sardinia, to Bonifacio, Corsica, is perfect for those looking to experience the dramatic cliffs, historic citadel, and vibrant harbor life of Corsica’s southern coast. The tour, operated by TUI Italia, lasts approximately 10 hours and includes a ferry crossing, a guided tour of the citadel, and ample free time for exploring on your own. With a provider rating of 4.5, this trip offers a well-organized and engaging way to see Corsica without the need for overnight stays.

The experience starts early with pickup options in Olbia, followed by a 105-minute bus ride to Santa Teresa. After boarding the ferry for a 50-minute crossing, travelers are taken on a mini train tour of Bonifacio’s spectacular cliffs and narrow alleyways. The day concludes with a return ferry, bus transfer, and drop-offs at the starting points. This tour balances guided sightseeing with free time, making it suitable for travelers eager to explore at their own pace.

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Key Points

• Full-day adventure from Olbia offering a ferry crossing to Corsica
• Guided 45-minute tour of Bonifacio’s vertical citadel
• 3.5 hours of free time to wander the streets, browse shops, or relax at the harbor
• Stunning views of the fjord-like harbor perched atop cliffs
• Suitable for active travelers but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or using wheelchairs
• Reserve now and pay later option available, with full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to Santa Teresa

The tour begins with a pickup outside hotel MATTA VILLAGE between 07:00 and 07:30. Travelers have three pickup location options: Matta e Peru 2, Via B. Fieschi, 4, and Janna ‘e Sole Resort. From there, the bus or coach ride lasts about 105 minutes, giving ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery of Sardinia’s north coast.

This early start is ideal for maximizing your day in Corsica, and the convenience of included transportation makes for a hassle-free experience. It’s worth noting that this tour is not designed for those with mobility challenges, as it involves some walking and uneven cobbled streets.

Crossing the Sea: The Ferry from Sardinia to Corsica

After arriving at Santa Teresa, the group boards a ferry for a 50-minute crossing over the Tyrrhenian Sea. The ferry ride offers views of the coastline and the open sea, setting the scene for the adventure ahead. Travelers should bring their passport or ID card to comply with border crossing requirements.

The ferry is a key highlight, connecting Sardinia and Corsica physically and culturally, even if they feel like distant siblings. The crossing is smooth, and the boat ride is included in the total duration, making it a seamless part of the day’s itinerary.

Exploring Bonifacio’s Cliff-Top Citadel

Once on land, visitors are taken on a guided 45-minute tour of Bonifacio’s citadel, perched atop 70-meter-high cliffs. The tour aptly highlights the vertiginous narrow alleys and medieval architecture that make this town so striking. The mini train tour provides a quick but rundown of Bonifacio’s dramatic landscape and historical sites.

During the tour, you’ll see the fjord-like harbor, which looks as if it’s been carved out of the cliffs, and learn about the town’s strategic position. The guides are knowledgeable and explain the town’s history and significance, especially its connection to Napoleon, who plotted his invasion of Sardinia from here.

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Free Time to Discover Bonifacio at Your Own Pace

Following the guided tour, 3.5 hours of free time allow for personal exploration. Travelers can stroll along the cobbled streets, browse antique shops and jewelry stores in historic houses, or relax at a café overlooking the harbor. Many visitors enjoy watching yachts sail in and out of the harbor, which features a picturesque fjord-like setting.

This free time is ideal for those who want to shop for souvenirs, take photographs of the stunning cliff views, or simply soak in the lively harbor atmosphere. The town’s narrow alleys and ancient walls invite leisurely exploration, and Napoleon’s connection adds a hint of historical intrigue.

Return Journey: Ferry and Bus Transfer

The day concludes with a ferry ride back to Santa Teresa, lasting about 1 hour. After disembarking, the group boards the bus for another 105-minute ride back to Olbia. The return journey offers a chance to reflect on a day filled with scenic vistas, historic sights, and charming streets.

Arriving back in Olbia, the tour ends with drop-offs at the same locations where the day began, around 19:00. The well-paced schedule ensures a full but comfortable day, with enough time to appreciate Corsica’s rugged beauty without feeling rushed.

Logistics and Practical Tips for the Trip

The tour includes pickup in Olbia and drop-off at three designated points, simplifying logistics for travelers staying in the area. Bring your passport or ID card for border formalities during the ferry crossing. The tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as navigating Bonifacio’s cobbled streets and some walking is required.

For flexibility, reserve now and pay later options are available, with full cancellation allowed up to 24 hours before departure. The live English-speaking guide enhances the experience with informative commentary, making the history and geography of Bonifacio come alive.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This full-day trip stands out for its combination of scenic ferry crossings, guided exploration of Bonifacio’s dramatic cliffs, and ample free time. The inclusion of a mini train tour offers a quick but scenic overview of the town’s landscape, and the guided visit ensures you don’t miss key sights.

Compared to other similar experiences, this tour offers a balanced mix of guided and independent activities, making it suitable for travelers who enjoy both structured sightseeing and personal discovery. The stunning views of the harbor perched high on cliffs remain a highlight, often praised in reviews.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Cultural Day in Corsica

This Olbia to Bonifacio day trip provides an efficient way to experience the striking beauty and historical charm of Corsica from Sardinia. The ferry crossing and guided tour give travelers a clear sense of the town’s unique geography and heritage, while the free time allows for personal exploration.

While the tour involves some walking and may not suit everyone with mobility limitations, the combination of scenic vistas, historic streets, and lively harbor atmosphere makes it a highly appealing option. Ideal for those seeking a snapshot of Corsica’s dramatic landscape and vibrant town life in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour covers transportation (bus, ferry, mini train), the guided tour of Bonifacio, and free time in the town. It also includes pickup and drop-off in Olbia.

How long is the ferry crossing?
The ferry from Santa Teresa to Bonifacio lasts about 50 minutes, with a similar duration on the return trip.

Is lunch provided during the trip?
The itinerary mentions a break for lunch, but it does not specify whether it’s included. Travelers should plan to bring their own snacks or buy food during free time.

Can children participate in this tour?
Yes, the tour is open to all ages, but it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring on the day?
A passport or ID card is required, along with comfortable walking shoes, some cash or cards for personal expenses, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, it is not recommended for wheelchair users or individuals with mobility impairments, as the streets are cobbled and walking is involved.

Are there any restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or trolleys/pushchairs. Also, ensure to contact your TUI representative in advance to provide necessary passport details.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s advisable to reserve your spot as early as possible since the tour operates on a limited schedule and has a flexible “reserve & pay later” option.

What makes this tour special compared to other Corsica trips?
The combination of scenic ferry crossings, a guided tour of Bonifacio’s cliffs and citadel, and free time to explore makes this experience uniquely balanced and visually impressive.

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