Saint-Florent is a fishing town on the north coast of the island, characterised by its Genoese tower, picturesque streets and a harbour full of yachts.
It is nicknamed "little Saint Tropez". Not only in the town, but also to the west of it, there are secluded sandy beaches alternating with rocky shores.
Sights and attractions
Although the town's main development didn't take place until the 16th century, when it was significantly expanded by the Janissaries as a base to quell the resistance of the proud Corsican villages in the surrounding area, Saint-Florent's history goes back a long way. The town was formerly known as Nebbio and one of its main monuments dates from this period.
This is the 11th century Nebbio Cathedral (Cathédrale du Nebbio), which was built during the rule of the Pisan Republic and was one of the most important churches in Corsica for centuries.
Today, it is located about 1.5 km from the centre, but count on the fact that it is a smaller church rather than the cathedral that many of you will imagine by the term "cathedral".
The second monument is the Citadel du San Fiurenz, built during the rule of the Genoese Republic.
But the most beautiful spot of Saint-Florent is undoubtedly the promenade full of restaurants along the small fishing port. There's peace and quiet around every corner, yet in Saint-Florent you'll have full facilities including a Spar supermarket.
Beaches and swimming
Directly in Saint-Florent you'll find one small pebbly and not very nice beach, with a main road running past it. The main beach treasures lie in the wide area around the town on the orphaned north coast of Corsica. Towards the northeast you'll come across smaller pebbly and virtually deserted beaches in small villages.
The best swimming, however, is hidden in the uninhabited area to the northwest, where you'll find, for example, the famous Saleccia beach.
Accommodation St. Florent
Living in Saint-Florent is a quieter alternative to bustling Bastia. Stay here if you want to explore the secluded, beautiful beaches of northern Corsica by car. Prices during high season in Saint-Florent range between 92 eur and 147 eur per night.
Some of the cheapest hotels with good ratings include the centrally located Hotel Restaurant L'Europe.
Great accommodation with sea views is also Hotel Tettola.
How to get to Saint-Florent?
Head here by car, it's the only way to discover the surrounding beaches. You can park for free around the citadel, where you can always find a place to stop.
The large car park in the centre of town has a charge of 2 eur per hour or 10 eur per day.
The distance to Saint-Florent from Bastia is 24 km.
Buses from Bastia only come here 1-2 times a day, as well as from the port of Ille Rousse, see timetables.
What to see around
Discover all the places to see in Corsica.