Corsica's leading seaside resort, Porto-Vecchio is far more than its postcard beaches. Between the lanes of its Genoese citadel, its colourful markets, its lively evenings and its traditional festivals, the “salt town” has plenty to fill your days and nights. Just 6 minutes from the centre, here is our complete guide from Pitrera Village to what to do in Porto-Vecchio.
The old town — wander the citadel
Start with the historic heart: the Genoese citadel, built in the 16th century, overlooks the gulf. Lose yourself in its cobbled lanes lined with craft shops, ice-cream parlours and shaded terraces. At sunset, the Genoese Gate and the Bastion de France offer a spectacular view over the marina. It's the perfect time for an aperitif facing the boats — an institution in Porto-Vecchio.
The markets — Corsican flavours and crafts
Markets are the soul of the town. The traditional market is held every week on the church square: Corsican charcuterie (lonzu, coppa, figatellu), ewe's cheeses, maquis honey, jams, olive oil and island wines. In summer, the evening craft market brings the town centre to life — a chance to find Corsican knives, pottery, soaps and handmade jewellery. For a unique piece to take home from your stay, drop by the Marc Ricca jewellery shop, right in the heart of Porto-Vecchio. Don’t forget the local producers nearby, where you can buy straight from the farm.
Festivals and events — a summer of music
Porto-Vecchio buzzes all summer to the rhythm of events. Open-air concerts take over the citadel, mixing Corsican artists and national headliners. The village festivals nearby (Sotta, Lecci, l'Ospédale) reveal island culture: shared meals, polyphonic singing and dancing. On 14 July, the fireworks over the gulf are among the finest in Corsica. Ask at the campsite reception — we keep the season's events calendar up to date.
Corsican music — polyphony and guitars
You can't leave Porto-Vecchio without hearing Corsican polyphonic singing, listed as intangible heritage. Many bars and restaurants in the old town host guitar and traditional singing evenings. At the campsite itself, our Corsican evenings in July and August immerse you in this atmosphere, with island specialities to enjoy by the pool.
Nature and sport — sea and mountains
At sea: diving and snorkelling in the Cerbicale Islands reserve, paddleboarding and kayaking at Santa Giulia, boat trips to the Lavezzi Islands and Bonifacio. On land: hiking to the Bavella Needles and the Ospédale forest, canyoning at Purcaraccia, or cycling along the coastal paths. Quad biking, jet-skiing, tree-top adventure and horse riding round off a programme for all tastes and ages.
Evenings out — bars, beaches and atmosphere
After dark, the marina comes alive: cocktail bars, waterfront restaurants and music terraces. The beach clubs at Palombaggia and Santa Giulia host DJ nights into the early hours. For a quieter mood, an artisan ice cream on the harbour or a dinner in the old town is the perfect way to end a beautiful Corsican day.
💡 Our tip: Ask for the calendar of markets, festivals and concerts at the Pitrera Village reception as soon as you arrive. Dates change every summer, and some events (concerts at the citadel, night markets) are well worth planning your week around!
Pitrera Village — 3-star campsite · Village de Trinité RT10 · 20137 Porto-Vecchio · 04 95 70 20 10
