So near and yet so far apart. Corsica and Sardinia are like two siblings who moved to different countries and are separated not just by the sea but by culture, too. This day trip to the cliff-perched town of Bonifacio in southern Corsica is the ideal way to get to know France's wildest region.

After a drive to the north of Sardinia to catch the ferry at Santa Teresa, you'll make the 50-minute crossing. Precariously built on 70m-high cliffs, Bonifacio's fjord-like harbour is quite the sight. You'll hop on a mini train to the centre before a guided tour of this vertiginous citadel with tightly packed narrow alleys. There'll be a break for lunch, followed by free time in the afternoon.

As you wander the cobbled streets, you'll be following in the footsteps of Corsica's most famous son, Napoleon, who plotted his invasion of Sardinia from here. Browse for antiques, handicrafts and jewellery in the shops that now fill the ancient houses, or head down to the harbour to watch the yachts come and go.