Bastia-Poretta Airport
Airport guide 2026

Bastia-Poretta Airport BIA

France

Bastia-Poretta Airport serves the capital of Upper Corsica on the island's northeastern coast, approximately 20 km from Bastia city center.

It is the gateway to Bastia, Cape Corso, and the eastern coast, and an important hub for connections to Italy, given its proximity to Tuscany.

Content verified on 03/09/2026
Official source: bastia-aeroport.cci.corsica

How to get to Bastia-Poretta Airport

The city centre of Bastia is about 20 km from the airport: the transfer takes approximately 25-30 minutes by bus or taxi.

By Car

Drivers reach the center of Bastia in approximately 25-30 minutes.

By Train

Corsica has no direct rail connection to Bastia airport; the Corsican rail network does connect Bastia to other cities on the island.

By Bus

Société des Autobus Bastiais shuttle connects the airport to Bastia city centre year-round, with 10-12 departures daily; ticket 10 euros per trip.
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Tips If your goal is Cape Corse, allow for longer transfer times due to the winding but scenic roads of the area. In high summer season, book well in advance.

Average travel time to BIA

TrainNot available
Shuttle bus30 minutes (seasonal)
Taxi / Private hire25-30 minutes

Parking near Bastia-Poretta Airport

The official parking (P1/P2/P4) is located directly across from the terminal.

The rate is 2 euros for 30 minutes, 3 euros for one hour, up to a maximum of 10 euros for stays of 12-24 hours; parking P3 is reserved for subscribers.

How to get to Bastia from BIA

By Train

Corsica has no direct railway connection to the airport.

By Bus

A bus connects the airport to central Bastia in approximately 25-45 minutes depending on traffic; ticket costs 10 euros per journey.

By Taxi

Official taxis await in the arrivals area; approximately 35-47 euros for the city center depending on the exact destination.

Need an airport transfer?

Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com

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Car rental at Bastia-Poretta Airport

The major car rental companies have counters in the arrivals area, essential for exploring Cape Corso and the eastern coast: book well in advance during peak season.

You need a driving license, passport, and credit card in the driver's name for the deposit.

 

Hotels near Bastia-Poretta Airport

Bastia-Poretta Airport is about 20 km south of the city, connected by an STIB shuttle and by taxi in about 25-30 minutes. Those arriving or departing at awkward times can choose a hotel on the south side of Bastia, closer to the road to the airport; those who want to enjoy the Vieux Port and the Citadelle are better off in the centre, a short walk from the port and the bus station. Those with a car and looking for quiet can head up into the hills to the north, to San Martino di Lota, with views over the gulf.
Airport area

South entrance to Bastia

on the road leading to the airport, a few minutes less than from the centre; taxi to the terminal in about 20-25 minutes

Best for: those who need to catch a very early flight or land late at night

Pros
  • Closer to the main road to the airport than the centre
  • Shopping mall with supermarket two minutes' walk away
  • Arinella beach reachable in a few minutes by car
Cons
  • Residential area, not very suited to those who want to stroll in the evening
  • A car or taxi is needed to get around, nothing within walking distance
See more hotels in this area
City centre

Vieux Port and Citadelle

STIB shuttle or taxi from the airport in about 25-30 minutes, with a stop in front of the station

Best for: the old port to experience in the evening, among restaurants and strolls

Pros
  • Restaurants, the old port and the cathedral within walking distance
  • Bus/ferry station a few minutes away
  • Sea views from several hotels on the Citadelle
Cons
  • Parking is difficult and often paid
  • Some streets can be noisy on summer evenings
See more hotels in this area
Nearby town

Hills of San Martino di Lota

a car is needed; from here, Bastia centre and the airport can only be reached by road, over 30 minutes to the terminal

Best for: those with a car who want to stay outside the city, with views over the gulf of Bastia

Pros
  • Panoramic position in the hills above the gulf
  • Pool and garden, a good choice for those who want to rest
  • Away from the traffic of the centre
Cons
  • A car is essential, no direct connection
  • Not suited to those with a very early flight
See more hotels in this area
 

Airport services

The airport is a major hub for northern Corsica, with strong seasonality and significant connections to Italy.

Shopping & Duty Free

The duty-free area offers a selection of typical Corsican products, including charcuterie and liqueurs made with chestnuts and myrtle.

Lounges & relaxation

Lounge access is available with frequent flyer status, a business-class ticket, or by purchasing a day pass.

Connectivity & Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal area. Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom have local SIM card counters in the airport.

Families & Children

The terminal features play areas for children and basic family assistance.

Terminal guide

The terminal capacity is designed to handle significant seasonal tourist traffic surges.

For flights, arrive at least 2 hours early, more so during peak season.

Map of Bastia-Poretta Airport

Map of Bastia-Poretta Airport

Frequently asked questions

Q. Is Bastia a good starting point for Cap Corse?

Yes, it's the most convenient base for exploring Cap Corse, with its winding scenic roads and fishing villages.

Q. Does Bastia airport have connections with Italy?

Yes, given its geographical proximity to Tuscany, it's an important hub for connections between Corsica and Italy.

Q. Do you need ID to fly to Corsica from mainland France?

Yes: although it's a domestic flight within France, connections to Corsica still require a valid ID card or passport check at boarding, a specific procedure linked to the island's particular customs regime.

Q. Is it worth renting a car in Bastia?

Yes, it's essential for exploring Cap Corse and the eastern coast; book well in advance during the high season.

Flight board

Real-time status of arriving and departing flights

Nearby Airports

Things to do in Bastia

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