Corsica is an island located off the coast of France and Italy, to the north of Sardinia. It is the 4th largest island in the Mediterranean Sea at 8,680 km². It's home to towns and cities such as Bastia, Calvi, and the capital of Ajaccio.
Corsica's Geography
The island's physical geography is incredibly diverse with a mix of coastal towns, forests and mountainous terrain which provides stunning scenery and a host of outdoor activities, making it a popular tourist destination.
Mild Mediterranean Climate
The island has a mild Mediterranean climate that's influenced by winds and moderated by the mountains. It has hot summers and cool winters and boasts the highest amount of sunshine in France averaging over 2,700 hours each year.
There is some regional variation in weather, with a slightly colder, more alpine-like climate at higher altitudes. The island's main mountain range divides the island, so the north is warmer than the south, and the east is wetter than the west.
The city of Ajaccio is known for its pleasant microclimate; sheltered from the north winds by mountainous terrain and sitting right on the sea.
When's The Best Time To Visit Corsica?
June and September are recommended as the perfect times to visit this area of France, but if you prefer intense, uninterrupted heat then the peak of the season will suit you better. Summer is the most popular time for tourists to visit Corsica when the temperatures are highest, but the island has something to offer holidaymakers all year round.
Summer Weather in Corsica
Is Corsica Hot In Summer?
If you're looking for sunshine and high temperatures, summer is the best time to visit Corsica. From May to September, the island is consistently hot and humid. Average temperatures are 22°C in the hottest months of July and August, though highs can, and often do, hit 27°.
May, June and September are a little cooler but regularly see daytime temperatures in the pleasant mid-20s. Summer nights offer some cooling relief on the island, with average lows of between 14°C and 17°C.
Is The Sea Warm Enough For Swimming In Corsica?
In addition, average sea temperatures are beautifully warm, peaking in August at 24°C which is perfect for swimming.
How Much Does It Rain In Corsica?
Rain is relatively steady throughout the year, but summer is the driest season, making it a popular time to visit. June, July and August are very dry, with just 11 and 20mm, while May and September see most of the summer's rain.
Sunshine Hours In Corsica
Corsica receives around 11 to 12 hours of sunshine a day in peak season, with not a great deal less expected during at the beginning and end of summer.
While early and late summer might be seen as a little unpredictable, sunny days are still guaranteed. The slightly cooler temperature can be more comfortable and the crowds considerably smaller.
Autumn Weather In Corsica
How Warm Is Corsica In Autumn?
Summer slowly starts to leave the island in September, as autumn arrives. However, temperatures will still remain pleasant into October and this is a popular time for holidaymakers to visit. Average day time temperatures are 17°C with balmy highs of 21°C.
November is when things start to cool down, with an average of 12°C. The lows of the season are around 7°C towards the end, which can feel rather brisk.
Sunshine Hours In Autumn
Sunshine levels also continue to drop, though there are still seven sunny hours in October and five in November.
How Wet Is Corsica In Autumn?
Those planning to visit Corsica in autumn should be aware that November is the wettest month of the whole year, seeing 96mm of rain and 18 wet days. Being slightly drier and warmer, October would be the recommended autumn month to travel to the island.
Winter Weather in Corsica
Is Corsica Warm In Winter?
Corsica's winters are cool so anyone visiting at this time of year should pack clothes suitable for this weather. At its coldest in January and February, average temperatures are around 8°C but average lows are around 3°C meaning it can easily get chillier, especially at night.
How Much Sun Does Corsica Get In Winter?
The days are considerably shorter at this time of year, with December only seeing around nine hours of daylight. As you would expect, sunshine levels are also lower. Both December and January see four sunny hours per day, rising to five hours in February.
Rain and Snow In Corsica in Winter
It is generally more damp and overcast at this time of year, though not unpleasant by UK's standards. Rain is steady throughout the season, at between 70 and 76mm of precipitation a month. While snow is rare, it has been known to occur.
Winter is not the time to visit Corsica if you want a beach break in the sun. However, the weather is generally better than the UK at this time of the year. And the island's towns and resorts are much less crowded with tourists
Spring Weather in Corsica
Spring arrives in Corsica in March. Temperatures start to rise, sunshine increases and the whole island bursts into colour as the flowers bloom. Signs of summer weather are showing too, but haven't fully emerged.
How Much Rain Does Corsica Get In Spring?
The island starts to dry up after the winter season, and March and April see 52mm and 58mm of rain respectively. This isn't as dry as the summer, but it means that over half the days in the month will be dry.
Sunshine Hours In Corsica In Spring
Daylight hours and sunshine are also starting to increase, with six to eight sunny hours every day in spring.
Is Corsica Hot In Spring?
Average temperatures are around 9°C to 12°C at this time of year, with highs of 17°C in April, which will feel very warm and pleasant. However, nights are still rather cold, and a jacket will be required.