At the foot of the Citadel, dominated by the bell tower of the church of Saint John the Baptist, it reflects the old Tuscan-style buildings arranged in an amphitheatre around the cove.
Behind its 15th-century Genoese breakwater, Bastia's old port has retained all the authenticity of its Mediterranean charm. Along the quays, houses with colourful facades polished by the sea breeze huddle together, overlooking the terraces of restaurants and cafés.
All year round, this lively seafront, where you can linger over a drink on the quayside, is alive with cafe owners, yachtsmen and fishermen grooming their nets at first light. A typical, lively district, with small yachts at anchor and colourful fishing boats, inviting you to stroll around at any moment.
On the south quay, the Mantinum, a belvedere-shaped theatre of greenery, acts as a link between the Old Port and the Citadelle, with an uninterrupted view over the Mediterranean.