The sights in Ajaccio mainly revolve around Napoleon, who was born here. The town's main sights are the magnificent cathedral where Napoleon was christened, the Bonaparte residence and numerous statues and street names related to his family. Corsicans themselves are not particularly proud of the island having spawned Napoleon, and many consider him deridingly as a jumped-up Frenchman. Locals in Ajaccio are, however, willing to boast about the Musée Fesch, which contains the art collection of Napoleon's maternal uncle, Cardinal Fesch. The collection of Italian paintings is considered to rate second only to that of the Louvre and are well worth seeing while in on holiday in Ajaccio.

French is the official language.

The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in France. Currency can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change and some large hotels, though you will get a better exchange rate at the ATMs. Major credit cards are widely accepted, as are travellers cheques, particularly in major tourist destinations. Foreign currency is not accepted.

Public transport in Ajaccio is unreliable.

Ajaccio doesn't have a loud or pumping nightlife, but focuses more on old-fashioned cafés and salons de thé There are many cocktail bars overlooking the bay on boulevard Lantivy.

There are many restaurants overlooking the promenade, which make excellent places to enjoy local seafood. L'Amirauté and Le Floride have excellent reputations and views. Chez Paulo has the best pizza in town.

Most souvenirs from Ajaccio are related to Napoleon, but don't overlook the region's excellent wine.

Local time is GMT +1 (GMT +2 between last Sunday in March and last Sunday in October).