Place Saint Nicolas is Bastia’s broad seafront square, directly opposite the ferry terminal and close to the Old Port. Palm trees and old plane trees shade its long paved walkways, while cafés, bars and restaurants line the edges. Look for the statue of Napoleon dressed as a Roman leader, the music kiosk and the war memorial; across from the ferry port, you can also see the conning tower of the submarine Le Casabianca. The square is a useful starting point for exploring Bastia and a place to pause over a drink or meal.
A square beside the ferry terminal
Place Saint Nicolas faces Bastia’s ferry terminal and stretches toward the Old Port. Its position makes it a natural first stop when you arrive by boat, and a practical landmark as you explore the city on foot. The square is also close to the old market by the main church and the marina, where restaurants are open in the evenings.
The long, open space is bordered by palm trees, plane trees and elegant buildings. Café, bar and restaurant terraces line its edges. You can cross the square for a stroll, or settle under the trees for a coffee, drink or meal while local life carries on around you. Families use the open space to walk and play, and the terraces draw people throughout the year.
Statues, memorials and the square’s past
Place Saint Nicolas dates to the 19th century and takes its name from a chapel that was later demolished. Its monuments include a statue of Napoleon Bonaparte shown in Roman dress, as well as a statue of a woman holding a child and a war memorial. A music kiosk stands in the square, adding another point of interest as you walk through it.
Opposite the ferry port, the conning tower of the submarine Le Casabianca is displayed. The square’s scale gives these landmarks room around them, so you can take them in as part of a relaxed walk rather than a separate indoor visit.
Markets and events
The square hosts public events, including concerts and the annual Salon du Chocolat et des Délices de Corse in October. Fireworks are held here on July 14. Sunday morning flea markets bring stalls to the square, with time to browse before continuing toward the Old Port.
On a quieter day, the square works well as a place to pause between sights. From here, you can walk toward the Old Port, the Citadel or the Romieu Garden. The Bastia Museum is also among the nearby sights. If you prefer a guided overview of the city, a tourist train departs from Place Saint Nicolas; the stated route lasts 45 minutes.
FAQ
Where is Place Saint Nicolas in Bastia?
It is on the seafront, directly opposite Bastia’s ferry terminal and close to the Old Port.
What can you see at Place Saint Nicolas?
Look for the statue of Napoleon in Roman dress, the music kiosk, the war memorial and the displayed conning tower of the submarine Le Casabianca.
When is the flea market at Place Saint Nicolas?
The flea market is held on Sunday mornings.
What events take place at Place Saint Nicolas?
The square hosts events including concerts, July 14 fireworks and the annual Salon du Chocolat et des Délices de Corse in October.
