I thought I might like to take a side trip to Corsica. Will I have to pay a departure tax when leaving Italy? Do I pay a tax when leaving Corsica? What would I expect to pay for a ferry? Where can I get a ferry in Italy to Corsica?

Hello,
Where will you be staying in Italy? Corsica is a wonderful Island so here is a link to illustrate the routes used Corsica Ferries
You may find the journey is not viable for just a daytrip unless you are on Sardinia and can sail into Bonifacio,a remarkable town.From here you could visit Porto Vecchio,a good seaside town with a busy port area and many good restaurants.

The south of the Island has wonderful golden beaches with turquoise waters and the only good road on the whole of the island so make sure you don't aim to drive too far as the roads are generally very slow.

I am not quite sure what you mean by taxes ?

We find Corsicans to be wonderfully hospitable with their own distinct culture which is neither French or Italian.
I recommend you read Dorothy Carrington's "This Granite Isle" before you visit even if for a only day !
Hope this will get you started.
Wendy

Thanks for the info. I will be bicycling Italy so staying in no particular place. Will be in Genoa, maybe then South (actually more SE ) on down the coast.

Departure tax is a fee you pay to the country you are leaving. Most Caribbean islands have one. With many being their own country and at $20 US a piece, it can get a little expensive traveling from island to island.