Bastia car hire, tailor-made for you
We make car rental easy, because we know you can’t wait to feel the freedom of the road and get the very most out of your stay. Wherever your travels take you, the keys are waiting for you to unlock the world.Plan your trip to Bastia
Located in the northeast of Corsica, Bastia boasts the second largest population on the island after Ajaccio. Bastia is Corsica’s main port, the commercial centre in Corsica and has an impressive reputation for its local wine.Bastia’s history dates back to the Genoese who constructed the town citadel and many of the historic buildings in the old area of Bastia. Those visiting should head to the the Place Saint-Nicolas, the town’s social hub. With numerous cafes and shady tress it is a great spot to soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Bastia old town lies to the south, surrounding the old port. And it’s a must for travellers. Overlooked by the town citadel there are a host of restaurants here that should not be missed and the narrow streets are filled with boutiques for shoppers to explore. Architecture fans will not be disappointed walking through old Bastia, while the daily farmers market provides ample opportunity to rest on your way and sample the local cuisine.
The Étang de Biguglia to the south of Bastia is the largest lagoon on the island and a haven for migrating birds. Visitors are rewarded with over 100 species stopping here on their way to warmer African climes. Nature lovers should further explore the Castagniccia region. A large chestnut forest surrounds the town; wild boar roam and can often be seen searching for chestnuts. The real attraction however is the view – on higher ground and on a clear day the snowcapped Alps of mainland France can be seen.
Road trips from Bastia
Bastia is a great place to explore the history and attractions of northern Corsica. Pick up your Avis hire car and head out.Calvi
A 90-minute drive west from Bastia, via the T20 and T30, Calvi has reinvented itself as Corsica’s culture capital and is dominated by the magnificent citadel which overlooks the marina and restaurant-lined promenade. In the summer months Calvi is a great place for those looking for a faster pace with many bars and nightclubs throughout the town. Calvi also lays claim to the birth place of Christopher Columbus, though this is hotly disputed by many other locations in the Mediterranean.
Aléria
History lovers should take the one-hour drive south, via the T10, to Aléria. Home to Roman ruins that were once the island’s capital, in recent years many sites have been uncovered that suggest a continuous presence dating back to 6,500 BC.
Saint-Florent
A short drive west, via the D81, across the Cap Corse brings you to the chic port of Saint-Florent. The nearest marina to the Côte D’Azur, in the summer months it bristles with luxury yachts. The marina is a great place to explore the winding streets, visit a cafe or one of the waterside restaurants. Complete your visit at the cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, dating back to the 12th century. It is highly ornate and probably one of the island’s most beautiful.
Your journey starts here
From the moment you arrive, Avis has got your car rental covered for the duration. Whether you fancy a supermini or hot hatch for an urban jaunt, an elegant saloon for a business trip or wedding, or a people carrier for a family holiday – your perfect hire car is standing by on the tarmac.Frequent renters get upgraded – and additional days for free – by signing up for Avis Preferred loyalty benefits. Simply choose a date and time and we’ll prepare your quality hire car.