Visiting Bonifacio with children
Travel tips and things to do in Bonifacio with kids
Bonifacio, located at the southern tip of Corsica, is a fascinating destination that offers plenty of opportunities for families traveling with children. From sandy beaches to outdoor adventures, cultural and historical discoveries, here are some activities and tips to make your visit to Bonifacio truly unforgettable.
Family-friendly beaches in Bonifacio
When traveling with children, choosing safe and easily accessible beaches is essential. Bonifacio offers several excellent options for families looking to enjoy a peaceful and fun day by the sea:
- Tonnara Beach: a perfect spot for young children thanks to its shallow waters and calm sea. It features parking, accessible restrooms and is a non-smoking area.
- Balistra Beach: ideal for kids with its shallow waters. In addition to parking and a restaurant, it has a lifeguard station and restrooms accessible for people with reduced mobility (PRM). It’s also a great spot for flying kites. Like the others, it is a non-smoking beach.
- Rondinara Beach: one of the most scenic, with parking and shaded areas to protect from the sun. There’s a restaurant and a protected environment certified by Natura 2000, which ensures its preservation and biodiversity. This beach is also a designated non-smoking area.
These three family friendly beaches are located at strategic points along the coast: Tonnara Beach is southwest of the town, near the old village; Balistra Beach lies to the east, in a quieter area and Rondinara Beach is about 10 km to the south.
Exploring the Citadel
The Bonifacio citadel, perched on dramatic limestone cliffs, is a place full of history and charm. Walking through its narrow alleys and stairways can be an exciting adventure for kids, immersing them in a medieval atmosphere.
The Bastion de l’Étendard is not only a historic marvel but also an ideal site for families with children. In addition to offering breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the town, it features a fun activity booklet for children aged 7 to 11. Through puzzles, riddles and word games, kids can explore the bastion’s history in an engaging and interactive way.
The King of Aragon’s Stairway is one of Bonifacio’s most captivating sights—not only for its stunning views but also for the legend behind it. According to tradition, the 187 steps were carved overnight in 1420 during the siege of Bonifacio. In reality, it’s a natural fault that was turned into a staircase, most likely by medieval monks, to reach a cave that once provided fresh water to the inhabitants.
Every child over 3 years old who climbs the King of Aragon’s Stairway receives a certificate of achievement. For safety, closed-toe, flat shoes are required and children under 3 must be carried in a baby carrier. Helmets are available and visitors are asked to review the safety rules before starting the climb.
Les Mystères de Pif
Les Mystères de Pif is a must for a day of fun and discovery with children: an app that guides you through an interactive adventure across Bonifacio. As you explore the town, the app leads you to different locations and reveals hidden details you might otherwise overlook. Each stop invites you to solve small riddles and discover curious corners of the city, making the visit even more exciting, especially for kids.
Boat trips from Bonifacio port
An exciting way to discover Bonifacio’s natural wonders is by taking a boat trip along the coast. These excursions offer the chance to admire the towering cliffs, sea caves and citadel from a unique perspective. Departures take place regularly from Bonifacio’s port and many companies offer family-friendly tours, with boats equipped with underwater viewing to surprise the little ones.
Outdoor activities
For families who love adventure, XTREM SUD, one of the largest adventure parks in Corsica, is located near Bonifacio. The park offers trails through the trees, climbing courses and other adrenaline-filled activities suitable for both children and adults, all in a safe environment.
The Lavezzi Natural Reserve is another perfect destination for a day of exploration and adventure, ideal for families with children. This protected archipelago offers the opportunity to discover a rich ecosystem with unique flora and fauna, spectacular landscapes and unspoiled beaches.
Bonifacio is the perfect destination for families looking to combine relaxation, adventure and culture. With its beautiful beaches, outdoor activities and historical treasures, it offers a well-rounded experience that’s sure to delight both the young and older members of your family.
