Holiday rentals in Calvi

Three iconic places to discover in Calvi

Calvi’s charm centres on three major sites that embody the soul of the town. From Genoese architecture to seascapes and religious heritage, these places tell the rich history of this Corsican town. A stay in a holiday rental allows you to explore these three worlds at your own pace, savouring every detail.

1. Calvi Citadel

The Citadel dominates the landscape from a rocky promontory that plunges into the bay. This Genoese fortress, built in the 15th century, remains a stone sentinel facing the sea. As you step through its ramparts, you’ll discover narrow alleyways where permanent residents still live – a detail that gives the place an authentic feel that goes beyond mere heritage. The terraces offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Corsican coast and the mountains rising in the background. This is the historic heart of Calvi, a must-see on any visit.

2. Revellata Beach

At the tip of the peninsula that bears its name, Revellata Beach embodies the wild and unspoilt side of Calvi. The fine sand borders waters of remarkable clarity, inviting you to swim and go snorkelling. The setting remains unspoilt, far from the hustle and bustle, making it an ideal retreat for travellers seeking unspoilt nature. Easily accessible from the town centre, it represents the very essence of the Corsican coast: rugged, crystal-clear and bountiful. Spending a morning or an afternoon on this beach is one of the unmissable highlights of a stay in Calvi.

3. Church of Saint John the Baptist in Calvi

Nestled in the heart of the Citadel, this 17th-century church tells the religious and artistic history of Calvi through its understated architecture and precious collections. A silver reliquary bust of Saint John the Baptist forms the focal point of this sanctuary, whilst the Baroque works of art adorning the walls bear witness to the talent of past craftsmen. As you cross the threshold, you enter a space imbued with spirituality and refinement. The church invites you to take a moment of contemplation, far from the hustle and bustle of summer.

These three sites form the ‘golden triangle’ of a getaway to Calvi. By staying in a holiday let in the heart of the town, you can visit them at your own pace, letting your days unfold as you wish, amidst history, nature and Mediterranean serenity.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday let in Calvi

Each season transforms the character of Calvi and its surroundings. The choice of when to stay depends on the atmosphere you’re looking for: swimming in warm waters, hiking without sweltering heat, or winter tranquillity with the mountains as a backdrop.

Spring. From April to May, temperatures rise gradually and the Mediterranean begins to warm up. Almond trees in bloom add colour to the landscape, and the town slowly comes to life ahead of the summer rush. Holiday rentals in Calvi allow you to make the most of this ideal transition to explore the region without the tourist crowds. The longer days provide lovely light for strolling through the old town and its cobbled streets.

Summer. From June to September, Calvi exudes Mediterranean vibrancy. Temperatures become warm, the water reaches its peak for swimming, and the days stretch on for hours. This is the peak season, when holidaymakers flock to enjoy the beaches and the citadel overlooking the gulf. A holiday in a holiday let during these months is perfect for families and those who love to spend hours in the water.

Autumn. From September to November, summer gradually fades away. The waters remain mild, the heat becomes less oppressive, and the days gently grow shorter. The late season appeals to those seeking refuge from the summer heat. The landscapes retain their greenery, and water sports remain enjoyable well into late autumn.

Winter. From December to February, Calvi takes on a more introspective character. Temperatures remain mild during the day, but swimming becomes less feasible. Rainfall increases, and the winds can blow more strongly. This is the season for mountain walks away from the crowds, and for exploring the citadel’s cultural treasures in a peaceful atmosphere.

A holiday rental remains the ideal option at any time of year: flexibility to explore at your own pace, a kitchen to try local produce, and a private space to enjoy Calvi’s changing seasons.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Calvi

Calvi offers much more than just fine sandy beaches. The bay, the mountains overlooking it and the crystal-clear waters all around invite you to enjoy a variety of adventures. Here are three experiences that holidaymakers shouldn’t miss whilst staying in a holiday let in this seaside resort in Haute-Corse.

1. Scuba diving in Calvi Bay and its shipwrecks

The crystal-clear waters of Calvi Bay fascinate divers of all levels. Between the seabed teeming with Mediterranean fish and the shipwrecks that tell the story of the local maritime history, every dive reveals an unspoilt underwater world. Rock formations, sea fans and underwater caves complete this rich underwater landscape. Diving clubs offer guided trips all year round, suitable for beginners and experienced divers alike.

Address: 20260 Calvi.

2. Hiking along the Mare e Monti trail from Calvi

This famous long-distance walking trail links the sea to the rugged peaks of Corsica. Starting from Calvi, walkers make their way through ever-changing landscapes: fragrant maquis, Laricio pine forests and breathtaking views of the coast. Each section offers spectacular views of the bay and the surrounding islands. Accessible sections also allow for day walks, ideal for short breaks.

Address: Place de la Porteuse d’eau, 20260 Calvi.

3. Boat trip to the Calanques de Piana and the Scandola Nature Reserve

The Calanques de Piana and the Scandola Nature Reserve are among the most remarkable coastal sites in the Mediterranean. A boat trip from the harbour offers the chance to admire these red granite cliffs plunging into the turquoise water, the sea caves and the unspoilt coastal wildlife. The trips often include a stop for a swim in unspoilt coves. It is a day of unspoilt nature and geological beauty that few regions can match.

Address: Port of Calvi, 20260 Calvi.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Calvi

Choosing a holiday rental also means planning for the day-to-day comforts of your stay. In Calvi, where the sun shines for most of the year, travellers look for accommodation equipped with the essentials to make the most of their free time. Between days at the beach and evenings on the terrace, a well-equipped holiday home makes all the difference.

• Air conditioning: essential for the hot nights of the Mediterranean summer, it ensures a good night’s sleep after sunny days.
• Terrace or balcony with a view: allows you to enjoy meals al fresco and watch the sunset – a quintessential Calvi tradition.
• Fully equipped kitchen: makes meal preparation easier and reduces spending on restaurants, whilst giving you the freedom to cook local specialities.
• Direct access to or very close to the beach: saves travelling time and allows you to enjoy impromptu swims, which is particularly appreciated by families with children.
• Private or secure car park: in the town centre, this is a major advantage for exploring Calvi without the stress of traffic or parking.
• High-speed Wi-Fi: even on holiday, staying connected is important to many modern travellers.
• Washing machine or tumble dryer: makes long stays easier and relieves the mental burden of doing the washing.
• Comfortable lounge with a television: useful for quiet evenings or on particularly windy days when going out isn’t an option.
• High-quality bedding: a good mattress and fresh sheets are the foundation of well-being on holiday.
• Effective heating: even in Corsica, winters can be chilly, especially in the mountains or at the start or end of the season.

Finding the right holiday rental means matching these facilities to the type of holiday you’re planning, the number of people and your budget. In Calvi, there’s a wide and varied range of options to suit all types of holidaymakers.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Calvi?

Prices for holiday rentals in Calvi vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. A small studio or a flat for two people usually costs between 60 and 120 euros per night in the low season, and between 100 and 180 euros in the high season. For a family house or flat accommodating four to six people, you can generally expect to pay between 120 and 220 euros per night out of season, rising to between 200 and 350 euros in July and August. More spacious or upmarket accommodation, with sea views or premium facilities, can cost up to 250 euros a night or more, depending on the time of year.

Several factors influence these rates. Location is key: a property near the beach or in the town centre commands a higher price than a house on the outskirts. The length of stay also plays a part: properties often offer discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays, with reductions of 10 to 20 per cent compared to the daily rate. Included services (parking, Wi-Fi, air conditioning, private swimming pool) also add to the bill.

As Calvi is a highly sought-after coastal destination, prices rise significantly between May and September, peaking in July and August. The periods from May to June and September to October offer a good balance between pleasant weather and more affordable rates. To plan your budget, compare offers from several owners, check reviews from previous guests and book a few weeks in advance if possible: you’ll have more choice and may sometimes benefit from early-booking discounts.