Corsica is a fantastic family holiday destination — beautiful beaches, safe towns, and great food. Getting from the airport to your accommodation is the first hurdle. Here's how to handle it.
The airport
Ajaccio Airport is small and easy to navigate. One terminal, one baggage belt. You won't lose anyone. There's a small cafe inside but limited facilities — no play areas, no fancy lounges. Restrooms have basic changing facilities. The good news: you'll be through arrivals quickly, usually within 15 minutes.
Transport options with kids
Taxi — fine for older kids
If your children don't need car seats (roughly age 5+), a taxi to Ajaccio center works well. The 10-minute ride costs €15-20. But know that Corsican taxis don't carry child seats and you can't request one.
For toddlers and babies: technically French law requires appropriate child restraints. Taxis have an exemption in some situations, but it's not comfortable or safe to hold a baby on a winding Corsican road.
Pre-booked transfer — best for families
This is the practical family choice:
- Request child seats when booking (infant carrier, toddler seat, or booster)
- Minivan option for families with lots of luggage, strollers, beach gear
- Fixed price — no stress with meters or cash
- Driver helps with bags while you manage the kids
Car rental — best for longer stays
If you're staying 3+ days and have a villa or plan to explore:
- Rent a car at the airport (book well ahead for summer)
- Add a child seat to the rental (€5-10/day, or bring your own)
- You'll need a car anyway — Corsica has minimal public transport
Shuttle bus — not great for families
The €5 bus works for a solo traveler with a backpack. With strollers, car seats, suitcases, and kids, it's impractical. The bus can be crowded in summer and there's limited luggage space.
Getting to popular family destinations
| Destination | Why families go there | Transfer cost | |---|---|---| | Ajaccio city | City beach, old town, Napoleon's birthplace | €20-35 | | Porticcio | Sandy beaches, calm water, resorts | €40-55 | | Porto | Calanques, boat trips, stunning scenery | €100-130 | | Propriano | Sheltered bay, family beaches | €90-120 | | Bonifacio | Dramatic cliffs, boat trips, old citadel | €150-200 |
Practical family tips for Corsica arrival
- Summer heat: July-August temperatures reach 30-35°C. Have water and sun protection ready before leaving the terminal.
- Strollers: Gate-checked strollers are returned at baggage claim (oversized area). AJA handles this quickly.
- Supplies: The airport has nothing for babies. The nearest supermarket (Casino) is about 3 km toward town. Stock up early.
- Car seats: Whether renting a car or booking a transfer, arrange child seats in advance. Don't assume they'll be available on the spot.
- Beach gear: If you're bringing inflatable toys, snorkeling gear, etc., factor the extra luggage into your transport choice. A minivan gives you breathing room.