visit korcula eu

Korčula enchants the senses with its timeless beauty and casts an everlasting spell of wonder on those who tread upon its ancient stone.

• Mediterranean food, wine
• Korčula Sword dance festival

'Famous Korčula graces the world!'

While the island of Korčula is a mosaic of natural and cultural heritage, the jewel in its crown is undeniably the town of Korčula. The other island places and villages of Žrnovo, Lumbarda, Račišće, Pupnat, Čara, Smokvica, Blato and Vela Luka are also rich in historic tradition and natural beauty.

• Korkyra nigra

Korčula, Korkyra Nigra

When the ancient Greeks saw the black contours of the island, framed by dense forests of holm oak and pine, they called it "Black Corfu" (Greek Korkyra Melaina; Latin Korkyra Nigra). A legend suggests that Korčula was discovered and founded by the Greek hero Antenor escaping from Troy.

• The old town

The old town of Korčula

is one of the best examples of a fortified medieval town in the Mediterranean and is listed in UNESCO’s tentative list of outstanding world heritage sites.

• to main menu

The world's greatest 13th century traveller, Marco Polo, who was a native of Korčula, opened the door of the Far East to Europe, while in service at the court of Kublai Khan.

The Marco Polo Interpretation Centre, attracts both tourists and scholars from around the world. He was captured at the foot of the walls of Korčula, in one of the Mediterranean naval battles in the 13th century.

Korčula’s history

Korčula’s history has notable milestones, starting with the Psephism (Lumbarda decree, 4th century B.C.), the oldest inscribed stone fragment in this part of Europe, through to the Statute of the town and island of Korčula of 1214 recording the organization and continuity of 800 years of civic society. There are three brotherhoods (society of laymen) dating from 1301, the Cathedral of St. Mark and numerous churches, palazzos, mansions, and streets built to an urban plan along an architectural form of a fish bone.

Residents within the walls of the old town live in 'an open-air museum', where the following venues are open to visitors: St. Mark’s Cathedral, Abbatial Treasury, Town Museum, House of Marco Polo, Icon collection in the House of the Brotherhood of All Saints, and Revelin Tower.

The religious traditions of Holy Week ('Vela setemana'), April 3-11, as the procession of Korcula's brotherhoods on the streets of the medieval town of Korcula are a remarkable experience. Confraternity of the All Saints, St. Roch and St. Michael guard centuries old traditions. Of particular interest are "torci" - wax candles which are carried in procession around the city, weighing up to 73 kilograms.

Middle Distance Triathlon Marco Polo Challenge April 21-23 www.marcopolo-challenge.com Olympic triathlon-Marco Polo Challenge , April 22, consists of: 1500 m swim, 40 km bike, 10km run. Korcula triathlon represents the official opening of the Croatian triathlon season and is open to all interested, licensed racers and amateurs. The ancient sword dance of Moreška , an officially protected intangible cultural heritage of the Republic of Croatia, has been performed in Korčula for more than 400 years. Moreška is performed twice weekly during the summer season. However, the most significant performance is that of the Day of the Town or Saint Theodore’s Day , July 29, when the three brotherhoods colourfully process through the town - All Saints, Saint Rocco, and Saint Michael. Korčula hosts numerous events: the Korčula Sword Dance Festival (June 16), the Half New Year's Eve (June 30), the Korčula Island Wine Festival (July 2 - Korčula, July 8 - Čara, July 21 - Smokvica, August 4 – Blato) also the Korkyra Baroque Festival (www.korkyrabaroquefestival.com) which attracts musicians of world repute (September 1-17).

• Calendar of events

In harmony with nature

There is a legend that says Korčula was the nymph Korkyra whom jealous Poseidon transformed into an island paradise. Famous wines are produced from Korčula vineyards: Pošip, Rukatac and Grk (white), and Plavac (red). Tourists enjoy sampling traditional meals, al fresco: macaroni with meat, seafood seasoned with top quality olive oil and accompanied by a glass of Korčula wine.

• Enology, gastronomy, ...

Korčula is special…

Its natural beauty and 182 km-long indented coast with numerous coves, beaches and promontories make Korčula ideal for nautical tourism. It is also on the ‘must visit’ list for Mediterranean cruisers and charters. The island’s warm and delightful atmosphere can be experienced not only in and around the town of Korčula, but also throughout the island’s towns and villages.

• More about places around the Korcula

• HR-20260 Korčula
• Obala dr. F. Tuđmana 4
• [email protected]
• www.visitkorcula.eu

17 Beautiful Things To Do in Korcula (Croatia’s Hidden Island Gem)

By: Author Charles

Posted on August 16, 2023

This overview will talk about some of the best things to do in Korcula, Croatia. Whether you are looking for beaches, activities, town highlights, or plenty more, read on to learn all about it.

When putting together a trip to Croatia it can be hard deciding which coastal towns & islands to visit. There are just so many beautiful options to choose from.

Korcula, however, ended up being one of my favorite additions to my Croatia itinerary. This small island gives visitors a great balance between old town, beaches, water activities, and overall relaxation.

Check out some of the best things to do in Korcula during your trip to this one of a kind island.

*  Affiliate Disclosure : This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you make a purchase through the links provided, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting the work I put into TripTins!

1) All About Korcula

Before getting into the top things to do in Korcula, I want to give you a better idea of what Korcula is all about.

Where is Korcula

Korcula is an island located in the Adriatic Sea, about halfway between Dubrovnik and Split.

You can decide to visit Korcula by ferry from either one of these mainland towns, or come in from a nearby island. Hvar , Brac, and Mljet , all offer ferry connections to Korcula, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

Towns of Korcula

While Korcula comes in at around 47 km / 29 miles length, and 8 km / 5 miles in width, most people who visit the island focus on the eastern side.

On the eastern side of Korcula, you will find the iconic Korcula Old Town and the famous Lumbarda wine region & beaches.

Although those are the more popular places to visit, there are still many other small towns located around the island. A few of these include Vela Luka, Blato, Smokvica, Cara, Pupnat, Racisce, and Zrnovo .

Some of these are just within a 10-minute bus ride from the Korcula Old Town, while others are located all the way on the other side of the island (1+ hours away).

This overview will focus mostly on the eastern side of the island in the Korcula Old Town / Lumbarda region.

If you are spending a longer period of time in Korcula, then definitely consider checking out some of these other spots as well.

Korcula Island vs Korcula Town

Going off of that last point, it is important to make the distinction between the island of Korcula and the town of Korcula.

The main historic town on the eastern end of the island is often just described as Korcula. Of course, you may not just be going to the old town, but rather exploring the rest of the what Korcula island has to offer.

How to Pronounce Korcula

This is going to be more important than you think! The “c” in the name is pronounced as “chu”.

So, as you are saying the word, think to yourself “Kor”-“Chu”-“La”.

Many people make this mistake, so try not to be one of them.

Getting Around Korcula

One of the main questions when it comes to Korcula is how does one get around the island. To answer that, it will all depend on where you end up going.

If you are just visiting the eastern side of the island around Korcula Old Town and Lumbarda, then you can simply stick with walking around, the local bus, water taxis, or even bicycling.

Now, if you are heading further west to the central and western side of the island, you will need to leverage the public busses a bit more. These are pretty reliable and connect all the main towns in Korcula.

Renting a car or scooter is another option if you would like to see the island at your own pace. But this is certainly not necessary given the bus reliability.

2) Where to Stay in Korcula

Before continuing on, I did want to point out some of the top places to stay in Korcula.

Since the main area around Korcula Town is not that big, some of the top rated places can sell out in the high season. All the hotel options listed are in the Old Town or just within a 10 minute walk of it.

I would recommend booking your accommodation once you know your dates of when you will be on the island. Below are a few of the top rated and reviewed options you can choose from:

• Guest House Korunic : located just across from the main gate, this is the highest rated guest house out there, offering great views and a comfortable layout
• Aminess Liburna Hotel : a 10 minute walk from town, the hotel offers a pool along the water, with a more open design compared to those in the city center
• Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel : a historic hotel located on the edge of the city walls – the views, rooms, staff, and experience are all high quality
• The Fabris – Luxury Inn : the inn is directly alongside the promenade with easy access to the city walls, restaurants, and many highlights

3) Things To Do in Korcula

Let’s now get into some of the best things to do in Korcula during a visit. Depending on your interest levels and your time on the island, will dictate which of these highlights are best for you.

Remember, this is a relaxing and scenic place to visit. Don’t try to rush through it all! Pick and choose the things that you will get to fully enjoy the most.

Walk Around Korcula Old Town

The small historic walled town of Korcula is a must visit. More likely than not, you will be either be staying within the Old Town or within walking distance to it.

It will not take you too long to explore the ins and outs of the stone streets.  The entirety of town measures around 210 meters / 700 feet in length and 150 meters / 500 feet in width, making it a place that you can really get to know.

That is one reason I loved staying in Korcula for a few days. By the end of it, I felt like I had fully taken advantage of all that it had to offer.

Throughout the Old Town you will find narrow streets, small plazas, some scenic staircases, and plenty of little shops & restaurants.

Now, due to its popularity, both with overnight visitors and day trippers, it can get crowded in those peak summer months.

I saw that happening my first day in town, so I decided to take an 8:00AM walk the following morning to better enjoy it. During my hour walk around town, it felt like I had the whole place to myself.

If you have it in you, I would recommend doing the same.

Follow the Old Town Perimeter

While the Old Town itself is pleasant to walk through, so is the perimeter of it outside the main walls.

It is easy to find several points where the streets of the Old Town connect with the outside. Along these streets you will find restaurants and bars with views of the water.

Whether you want to just enjoy the landscape out in front of you or sit and have a meal, there will be options out there for you.

Korcula Town Gate

While walking in and around the Old Town is undoubtedly going to be a highlight, there are some actual attractions to see along the way too.

So, as you are planning your walk, be sure to add some of these to the route!

First up is the main Korcula Town Gate. The gate can be found on the southern end of town, and is the entrance point for many that are visiting Korcula.

You will see this also named as Land Gate, with its history dating back to the 13 th century. Just above the entranceway is a sculpture of a lion, that evokes its previous Venetian history. Under the sculpture is a plaque that honors the king of Croatia as it returned to the country in the 20 th century.

Old Town Towers

In addition to the Old Town walls, there are still 7 remaining towers (out of 12 originally) that are located along the wall.

You can take some time to check out a few of them from the outside as you are making your way around the town.

These towers include:

• Revelin Tower (the main gate tower)
• Large Governors Tower (main tower on southwest corner)
• Small Governors Tower (secondary tower on southwest corner)
• Sea Gate Tower (art gallery)
• Kanavelic Tower (restaurant)
• Zakerjan Tower (cocktail bar)
• All Saints Tower (live music)

Note that you may also see alternate local names for each one of these towers.

Some of these towers can be just viewed from afar while others have been converted in restaurants, bars, and galleries. Korcula really does give its visitors some unique things to do during a visit!

St Marks Cathedral

Anytime you are dealing with historic towns like Korcula, you usually will find a church and bell tower. Korcula is no exception with the St Mark’s Cathedral.

The cathedral was built back in the 15 th century (replacing an older church that was built a couple hundred years earlier). Today it stands as the most important structure in the Korcula Old Town (and most popular).

During a visit to the St Marks Cathedral, you can first head into it and see the old historic architecture that it entails. There is then a separate entrance that will take you to the top of the bell tower.

A narrow spiral staircase takes you up high above the rest of the Old Town. Once up top, you will be directly beneath the bells as you take in surrounding views of the Adriatic Sea, Korcula Town, and plenty more surrounding landscape.

When it comes to views within the Old Town, this is going to be the top place out there. As long as you are up for a bit of a winding stair climb (& descent), be sure to add the St Marks Cathedral to the list.

Marco Polo House

One of the more disputed historical sites to visit in Korcula is the Marco Polo House. Some say that this was the house that Marco Polo was born in, but many others disagree and say he was born in Venice.

Nonetheless though, a visit to the Marco Polo House is still worth the visit, if not just for the views.

Marco Polo is one of the most well known explorers and travelers. He is known for his 4+ year journey from Venice to China as he explored many places on the way and back.

The house itself is just a few rooms, where you can read more about his historical background and see some sculptures and paintings.

But like I just mentioned, the views are certainly a highlight as well. Getting to see the bell tower, church, rooftops, and waters of Korcula was worth it to me.

• Korcula Town Museum

If Marco Polo’s House is not for you, maybe the Korcula Town Museum is. The museum itself is within a building called Gabrielis Palace, that was constructed in the 15 th century.

This is a place where you can learn all about the history of Korcula and how it came to be.

Within the museum you will find five different floors packed with historical artifacts, paintings, and helpful info to learn more about how Korcula transformed over time from its origins until present today.

Learn More : You can read more about the museum and Marco Polo house through the official Korcula website

Sveti Nikola

Just outside of the Old Town center, on the southwest corner, you will come across a palm tree lined promenade.

The Sveti Nikola walkway is a great little place to hang around as you get to see the city walls from afar. You can even continue a bit further westbound to get a completely different vantage point of Korcula.

This is also a popular spot for people to simply jump into the water and go for a swim. So, if you are trying to cool down at any point, Sveti Nikola has plenty of options.

Korcula Town Viewpoint

I am sure you can tell by now that there are many opportunities to get in a view from around the Old Town center. However, there is another more elevated viewing opportunity located up behind the town.

Above the town there is a road called Novi Put (also can be named UL. 45). Getting up there just requires a short 15 minute hiking trail from nearby the main city gate and Sveti Nikola.

At the end of this overview I have included a map that pinpoints the exact spot where you can find the view. While there are some surrounding trees, it still makes for a great panorama of the Old Town.

You will also find a perfectly placed bench here to sit back & enjoy the view from.

Further up along the hiking trail is an old fort called Forteca Svetog Vlaha, if you are up for some more exploration.

Bonus Viewpoint

As I was coming back from Lumbarda (more on that soon), I came across a shopping center area. This shopping center is located right on top of the hill before the road winds down to the Old Town.

There ended up being a great little viewpoint here of the Korcula Old Town, with the mountains hovering out back.

Massimo Cocktail Bar

Korcula is full of unique attractions to visit. One of those is the Massimo Cocktail Bar. As I mentioned before, some of the old towers have been transformed into places to visit.

The cocktail bar is located on top of the Zakerjan Tower on the northern part of town.

To get up to the tower, you must climb a short ladder, where you will then be welcomed to beautiful views of the surrounding sea.

Sit back, relax, and have a drink as you take in a Korcula sunset.

Moreska Sword Dance

Now the bars are not the only unique aspects of Korcula. If you are looking for a historic Korcula tradition, look no further than the Moreska Sword Dance.

Moreska is a mixture between dance and battle that originated in the 12 th century throughout the Mediterranean region. It found its way to Korcula in the 16 th century and has been a staple on the island ever since.

The sword dance happens every Monday and Thursday during the high peak summer season at the open air Ljetno Kino cinema (tickets required).

Korcula Town Beaches

For those that want to stay close by the Old Town center but still get some time in the water, this list of beaches is for you.

While there are certainly better beaches out there on Korcula, it is hard to beat just walking outside your hotel and heading right into the water.

It is also important to note here that you shouldn’t expect big white sand beaches. Instead expect some pebble & rocky filled beaches as well as simply entry points into the water off of the promenade.

Some of the main beaches include:

• Zakerjan Beach (north side of town)
• Luka Korculanska Beach (southwest corner of town)
• Ispod Duvana Beach (further along Sveti Nikola)
• Banje Beach (10 minute walk east of town)

Rent a Boat

Everything already mentioned in this overview is focused on the Korcula Old Town.

Now it is time to get further away from the town center and take in some more exploration around the eastern side of the island.

Perhaps my favorite activity I took part of during my time on the island was renting a small boat with a group of friends. We took the boat out in the nearby waters and visited several small islands along the way.

Getting to experience the beautiful crystal-clear waters, made this is a special experience to take part of.

Renting a boat is quite simple – just head to the marina area on the eastern side of town and you should find a few boat rental stands. The boats are easy enough to drive yourself if you have the skillset, or you can opt for a driver to take you around.

Some of the main highlights we stopped at along the way included:

• Otocic Mala Stupa
• Otok Sutvara
• Otok Gubavac
• Plaza Lumbarda
• Otok Badija

Note : you can also take water taxis to some of these spots and get picked up later in the day.

Learn More : Check out the Korcula Boat Rental overview for everything you need to know

If you want to get yourself away from the Old Town center for a day, then Lumbarda is the place to be.

Located just 15 minutes by car or water taxi, 30 minutes by bus, or ~45 minutes by bicycle, you can reach the small town of Lumbarda.

This scenic seaside town is just an overall relaxing place. Whether you just want to walk the promenade, hop in the water, or enjoy a meal/drink nearby, Lumbarda will have options for you.

But most people don’t only visit Lumbarda for its town. Rather for its wine (and beaches).

Lumbarda Grk Vineyards

As you make your way around the surrounding areas, you will soon see the vast number of grapevines that call Korcula home.

These vines are mostly filled with Grk grapes, that are really only found in Lumbarda, Korcula.

While you can simply enjoy the rows of grapes from the road, another option would be to actually visit these vineyards.

There are many to choose from around the area, with several offering wine tastings, tours, and meal options.

A few of the more highly rated Grk vineyards include:

• Vitis Winery
• Popic Winery
• Lovric Winery
• Cipre Winery
• Sabulum Winery

Many of these are family run wineries that are all right nearby one another. You can decide to head there by foot, or grab a bicycle from town (if you didn’t already bicycle over from Korcula Old Town).

Once all done with the wine portion of the day, continue a bit more further along to the beaches!

• Lumbarda Beaches

While there are some beach areas right round the town center of Lumbarda, the more popular options are located further east.

Just 15 minutes by foot from the town is the main Lumbarda Beach on the northern shore (also called Bilin Zal). From here you will get those crystal clear water views with the Croatian islands and mountains out in the distance.

If you simply walk directly across the island for a few minutes you will reach the southern beach of Vela Przina . Here you will find a larger beachy area to swim in, along with a seaside restaurant.

Cycling Korcula

To finish off this part of the list of things to do in Korcula, I did want to mention the idea of cycling your way around.

While you certainly wont need a bicycle for the Old Town center, renting a bicycle can be a great way to explore the eastern side of the island around Lumbarda.

I spent an entire day doing so, as I rented a bicycle from just outside the Old Town gate, and then heading to Lumbarda Town, the Grk vineyards, and the Lumbarda beaches.

Most of the cycling here is pretty easy, with the only real difficult part being getting up the first hill outside of town.

But overall, renting a bicycle and exploring at your own pace is a perfect way to spend the day seeing what Korcula is all about.

Note : you can also visit other nearby towns & beaches by bicycle too if you are up for it

4) Korcula Tours

For those that want to take part of some Korcula tour options, there are some great recommendations out there (many of which spend time out on the water).

Hop On Hop Off Boat

You can purchase a hop on hop off boat ticket that allows you to visit several different places along the waters of Korcula. Badija Island, Vrnik Island, and Stupe & Moro Beaches are all included with this ticket.

Book Today: Korcula Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket

Korcula Walking Tour

During this 1.5 hour walking tour, you will be guided around town as you learn more about its history and get to ask questions along the way. It is the perfect option for those that want to gain a better understanding about what Korcula is all about.

Book Today: Culture and History Walking Tour

Kayaking & History Tour

Departing from Lumbarda is a half day kayaking tour that will take you out on the water and also to some nearby islands. The islands of Vrnik and Badija will be visited as you enjoy the crystal clear waters during the ride.

Book Today: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour

Sunset Kayak Tour

Last up is another kayak tour from Lumbarda, but this time it is a sunset tour option. You will also get to visit some of the islands prior to sunset, before having some Grk wine & seeing the sunset to end the day.

Book Today: Sunset Kayak Tour

5) Korcula Map

To get a better sense where everything mentioned on this list is located, check out the map below that lays it all out.

6) How to Get to Korcula

Since Korcula is an island and does not have an airport, the only way to get there will be by ferry.

You can find ferry connections from many of the nearby islands and coastal cities. Just some of these include:

To see a complete list along with ferry schedules, check out Croatiaferries .

One important thing to note is that there are multiple ferry ports on the island. For those that are heading to Korcula Old Town, be sure to look at schedules for the Korcula Town port.

Ferries will change by day and by season, so before you head out, check out those schedules to understand the logistics.

From the ferry terminal at Korcula Town, you should be able to walk over to your hotel given you are staying in the nearby vicinity.

Do You Need a Car in Korcula

Once you are in Korcula, you more than likely can stick to just walking, busses, water taxis, and bicycles when need be.

I do not think that cars are necessary in Korcula unless you plan to do a ton of exploration around the entirety of the island.

Everything I went through in this overview can definitely be done without a car.

7) How Many Days Do You Need in Korcula

Given your trip to Croatia will be covering several different spots throughout the country during a certain timeframe, I would recommend spending between 2 – 3 days in Korcula.

This will give you enough time to see Korcula at a comfortable pace without the need to rush too much from one place to the next.

You can spend some time around the Old Town, head out to Lumbarda, and spend time out on the water all within that 2-3 day time period.

However, if you are looking to explore further around the island, you may want to consider adding additional days for those places. It will all depend on how many different spots you are trying to visit beyond the eastern side of the island

8) Korcula Itinerary

To give a high level overview of what a 2-3 day Korcula itinerary will entail, check out the below layout. This is very similar to how I spent my 3 days on the island.

• Explore Old Town
• St Marks Church
• Promenade Stroll
• Korcula Viewpoint Hike
• Sunset at Massimo
• Boat Rental or Water Taxi to explore the nearby waters & islands
• Bus/Bicycle/Water Taxi to Lumbarda
• Grk Vineyards

Croatia Itinerary : Feel free to check out this Croatia Itinerary I put together that includes more places around the country

9) Is Korcula Worth Visiting

To wrap up this overview, I must say that Korcula is certainly worth visiting for those that want a more laid-back Croatian island vibe.

You won’t find the hectic nightlife or loud city streets here. While the Old Town can get busy during the day given its size, the early mornings and evenings will offer relaxing experiences.

Coupled with the fact that you can easily explore the nearby islands, head to some beaches, and spend time at the vineyards, Korcula is a great overall island to add to your itinerary.

Hope you enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Korcula. If you have any questions or comments, be sure to add them in below.

Also, don’t forget to check out the other Croatia itineraries and guides up on the site.

Have fun out there and safe travels!

Related posts:

Sharing is caring!

Croatia Travel Guides

Your one-stop travel guide for Croatia

City Breaks , Things To Do · May 31, 2020

12 Things To Do in Korcula, Croatia

First thing you need to know about this gorgeous Croatian island is that its name is pronounced as Kor-chu-la. Second, it is a haven for history buffs, photographers, adventure seekers, and wine lovers – as there are many things to do in Korcula.

If you’re not among those mentioned, the island of Korcula is bound to be an amazing discovery and it’s also considered one of the best islands in Croatia.

The best way to get to Korcula island is through Split , Hvar or Dubrovnik . There are ferries that travel from these towns to the island and it can also be a good day trip if you don’t want to stay. However, we recommend staying at least for a couple of days to fully enjoy the island.

From island hopping to climbing up medieval towers, strolling through the old town to drinking wine, here’s a list of best things to do in Korcula, Croatia.

12 Things To Do in Korcula

1. explore korcula.

Start your Korcula visit with a stroll around its a charming old town. This place is quite small and can be easily explored in half a day. The old town is where you’ll find most restaurants, shops and Korcula’s major attractions.

Wander through the cobblestone alleys and see the colorful blooms going over the sides of old buildings. A walk around this cute old town is one of the best things to do in Korcula, and a great way to experience being a local.

2. Korcula Town Museum

Located in the gorgeous Gabrielis Palace, the Korcula town Museum is a haven for history buffs and those who want to know more about the island’s fascinating culture. In itself, the palace where it is housed is already one life-size artifact as it’s a stunning example of 15th and 16th-century architecture.

This palace stands in the Old Town’s central square, with the museum occupying four floors and features a variety of exhibits. Items on display include an ancient tablet that proves the presence of the Greeks on the island around the 3rd century B.C. And exhibits about the history of shipbuilding in the area.

Opening Hours

January – March , October – November – 10:00 am- 1:00 pm

April – June – 10:00 am -2:00 pm

July – September – 9:00 am- 9:00 pm

Admission Fee

For visitors in groups of 10 and more visitors – 15 kuna. (€2.02) Price for individual visitors – 20 kuna (€2.68) For children in organized visits – 8 kuna (€1.07)

Contact Information

Phone: +385 20 711 420

Email: [email protected]

Address: Trg Sv. Marka, 20260 KORČULA

3. Go island hopping

A visit to Korcula isn’t complete without a trip to its neighboring islands. Island hopping is one of the best activities to do in Korcula and it’s a fun way to explore its natural beauty. A boat trip to Korcula’s surrounding island also introduces you to some of its best beaches.

These beaches include rocky Banje beach and Zakrjan beach in Korcula Town, as well as sandy Bilin Zal beach and Vela Przina beach in Lumbarda.

4. Visit Marco Polo’s house

It is said that the legendary explorer Marco Polo was born on this island, that’s why his house is one of the best places to visit in Korcula. The structure that’s said to be where Marco Polo was born is a small stone house with a tower that offers amazing views of the sea surrounding Korcula.

There’s also Marco Polo gift shop across the street that has some quirky Marco Polo branded souvenirs such as mugs, notebooks, pens, shirts, and sweets, plus a variety of other nautical-themed items.

April-June, September- October 9:00 am- 3:00 pm

July- August 9:00 am-9:00 pm

Groups (min.10 persons) 12 kn (€1.61) Adults – 20 kn (€2.68) Children up to age of 10 (accompanied by an adult) Free

 Address: Ulica Depolo, Korcula

5. Donkey Safari On Korcula Island

Whether you’re in Korcula with kids or not, this is a highly recommended activity. This fun donkey safari is a great way to take in this island’s gorgeous scenery. It starts at Žrnovo town, where visitors get to ride donkeys through olive groves, which leads to the stunning Pavja Luka bay.

The pebbled beach is where you can spend the rest of the day sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming or just relaxing by the shore. Part of this tour is a delicious lunch of grilled fish served with local wine.

This is one of the best things to do in Korcula on weekends as it allows you to relax while still enjoying the sights.

6. Explore Korcula by Bike

Get a map from the visitor centre or download one, then either rent a bike or join a tour group. Whatever you choose, this is one of the best things to do in Korcula and you’re going to enjoy navigating the island with a different perspective and at your own pace.

A bike tour of Korcula takes you through the old town to its side streets, olive groves and vineyards with probably some wine tasting, then through rolling hills and secluded bays.

This is where you stop, lock your bike as you sit on the sand or pebbles and relax while taking in the sight of the Adriatic’s crystal blue waters.

7. Windsurf On Korcula Island

You can’t be on an island and not try at least one watersport. Try one of the most popular activities in Korcula — windsurfing. With the island’s glorious weather and its strategic position to catch the perfect afternoon ‪Maestral.

That’s a summer wind that’s perfect for windsurfing, as it allows them plenty of movement while in the waters. Windsurfing is something everyone can enjoy, and it doesn’t matter if you haven’t tried it yet.

There are windsurfing schools in places where the wind is less intense, and they rent equipment, too. This is an ideal activity when in Korcula and something that every visitor of the island must try.

8. Day Trip to Mljet

From one gorgeous island to another — this is a definite must when you’re in Korcula. Mljet is just a quick boat ride from Korcula, a lush green island that’s home to one of Croatia’s top national parks .

This park is mostly forested, surrounding two saltwater lakes. While in Mljet, you can also visit an islet called St. Mary’s Island, which once housed a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century.

This place looks straight out of a fairytale and it also has walking trails if you want to explore further.

Mljet National Park

May – October

Daily- 8:00 am- 8:00 pm

Winter period ( November – April ) accepting visitors only by prior announcement.

January- March, October – December Adult ticket- 70 kn Ticket for students (ages 7 to 18) and students-50 kn Extra return boat ticket to Sv. Mary (with the presentation of a ticket)-30 kn Mountain pass- 50 kn Guided tours up to 2 hours- ** 400 kn Children up to 7 years old- Free

June- September Adult ticket- 125 kn Ticket for students (ages 7 to 18) and students-70 kn Extra return boat ticket to Sv. Mary (with presentation of a ticket) -30 kn Mountain pass- 50 kn Guided tours up to 2 hours- ** 400 kn Children up to 7 years old- Free

 Address: Nacionali Park Mljet 20226 Goveđari Pristanište 2, Croatia

Phone: +385 20 744 041  or +385 20 744 058

Email:   [email protected]

9. Try the local wine

With its long history of winemaking, one of the best things to do in Korcula just has to include its local wines. Visit a vineyard, observe the process at a winery, then sip some wine as you take in the island’s breathtaking views.

This activity is best done with a guided tour as it takes you to multiple vineyards and winery. The tours also include honey and olive oil tastings as they’re among the top products of Korcula, as well as delicious lunch to go with your wine.

10. Visit Seba Dizajn

Korcula is home to Seba Dizajn, known for their fine handcrafted filigree jewelry. The Seba family have been associating with the art of filigree that spans an incredible 500+ years.

It doesn’t matter if you’re not into jewelry, but it’s fascinating to look at what Seba Dizajn has to offer, or watch them at work as they painstakingly create some intricate metalwork against gold or silver.

A unique thing to do in Korcula, this it also shows you a different side of Korcula. Aside from the bays, beaches, and wine, the island also boasts of some serious art and craftsmanship.

11. Climb to the top of St. Mark’s Cathedral

Situated right in its tiny old town is one of the most important buildings in Korcula the St. Mark Cathedral. This Gothic and Renaissance structure dates back to the 15th century and is built in the highest point of the Old Town.

One of the best places to see in Korcula, visitors can also climb up the bell tower for stunning panoramic views over the d town as well as the rest of this island, stretching all the way to the Adriatic Sea.

12. Enjoy Cocktail Drinks in a Medieval tower

You don’t always get the chance to drink in a medieval tower, and Korcula offers visitors an opportunity to do just that. Head on to Massimo cocktail bar, which is located on top of a medieval tower with great views over the city as well ss the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic.

Go there early enough to catch the sunset, do it with a drink in hand as you take me. The fantastic views that you won’t see anywhere else.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

12 Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia

Trending now.

Become an Insider

Join Croatia Travel Guides' mailing list for exclusive content, tips, & giveaways.

Hello there! Welcome to Croatia Travel Guides. CTG aims to help travelers find their way for the first time in Croatia. We are your one-stop travel guide for all things Croatia.

• Things To Do
• Food and Culture
• Where To Go
• Where To Stay
• Travel Guides
• Privacy Policy
• Disclaimer and Disclosure

Copyright © 2024 Croatia Travel Guides · Theme by 17th Avenue

Copyright © 2024 · Mia on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > A Guide To Korčula – 18 Things To Do In Korcula Croatia

A Guide To Korčula – 18 Things To Do In Korcula Croatia

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Here’s the ultimate guide on what to do on Korcula Island. Best known for its picturesque walled Old Town, the island as a whole has so much to offer for everyone. Where to eat, sleep, explore… this extensive things to do in Korcula Croatia guide covers everything!

Korčula Island (pronounced kor-chu-la), also known as the Emerald Isle, is one of Croatia’s many islands . Located in Southern Dalmatia, this small, 279-square-kilometer island is a favorite among travelers .

Acquiring the nickname “mini Dubrovnik.” The old quarter is no doubt architecturally & historically fascinating, but the island as a whole has so much to offer for all visitors.

Like many of Croatia’s islands , Korčula naturally provides a crowd-free holiday. For one, there are a lot fewer people here! You are constantly surrounded by beautiful nature and clear blue seas. There are plenty of outdoor activities and open spaces to enjoy the fresh air.

A place of culture, history, beauty, and charm , the island of Korčula offers a variety of activities and unique traditions, all set in the stunning Adriatic and blessed by excellent Korčula weather. Ferries from Dubrovnik and Split on Croatia’s mainland bring visitors to Korčula Island (spelled Korcula in English), private sailboats, and catamarans.

Whether you plan a day trip to Korcula Island or stay for several weeks, come to the island to enjoy the hidden beaches, pebbly and sandy shores, various water sports, and picturesque views from all directions. Before visiting Korcula, ensure all the essential travel items you need to make your holiday much more comfortable.

Let’s answer the question “What to do in Korčula, Croatia” and help you discover the island of Korčula like a local. 

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

What To Do In Korčula Croatia

Korčula Island is blessed with many things; the best one – not as many tourists as Hvar. The island of Korcula is laid back but has much to see and do.

1. Visit The Picturesque Korčula Old Town 

Korčula has received the name “Little Dubrovnik,” and Korčula Old Town can be credited for the nickname. Built on a small peninsula jutting into the Peljesac Channel, the medieval city walls in the Old Town boast the same picturesque Venetian-style buildings with red rooftops as Dubrovnik . The city sits on the UNESCO Tentative List and is integral to the island’s history.

St. Mark’s Cathedral is located at the center of this town, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance-styled church. Built on the peninsula’s highest point, the church is the most important building in Old Town, so viewing this architectural wonder is necessary.

A stop at the Korčula Town Museum is an exciting way to learn about the island of Korčula and its history, while the view of Old Town from inside Marco Polo’s supposed birth home (see below) can’t be beaten.

After wandering the narrow streets, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and cafes  or catch a new Hollywood release or independent film at the open-air cinema in peak season.

2. Korčula Town Museum

History buffs and culture lovers will relish visiting the excellent Korčula Town Museum. Housed in the beautiful Gabrielis Palace, a fine example of 15th- and 16th-century architecture on the Old Town’s central square, it offers a superb insight into Korcula’s cultural development, history, and crafts.

A fun exhibit details shipbuilding history in the area, an industry that originated in the 1300s. Its collections and exhibitions may appear chaotic across four floors, but you can find several unique and remarkable artifacts there. These include an ancient tablet that proves the Ancient Greeks’ presence on the island as far back as the 3rd century BC.

3. Visit Marco Polo’s Home

Many believe Marco Polo, the famous world traveler, writer, and explorer, was born in Korčula. I’m afraid I have to disagree, but you can decide for yourself after you have heard the local stories and been to the house on Ulica Depolo Street on the island of Korčula.

A visit to Marco Polo’s alleged birthplace is something history and mystery lovers will enjoy. A portion of the house is available for guests to explore, and the view from inside over Korcula’s Old Town is quite spectacular!

A small entrance fee is required, but children under ten may enter for free. The home is open from April through October for tours.

Find local tour options here.

4. explore the whole island.

When exploring the island, don’t just limit yourself to the Old Town of Korčula. As picturesque and historic as it is, don’t miss out on seeking out the small charming villages, quiet bays, and tiny islets.

In recent years, Croatian island-hopping has become the norm, with people squeezing in as many stops as possible. However, this year would be perfect for returning to slow travel. Stay on Korčula Island longer and soak it all up.

• Pasta Making:  Wander around the old stone houses and churches in Zrnovo. While you’re there, why not have a chat with a local 
• Boating:  If you’d like to visit archipelago islets, rent a boat or sit back and relax on a boat trip. Mario​ from Fish & Fun​ and Goran​ from Explorer Boat are funny guys​ who offer small group and private boat trips.

5. Enjoy The Outdoors & Fresh Air

Walking and cycling are great ways to explore Korcula. You can get an island map with marked cycling and walking trails from a tourist agency or the local tourist boards.

Take A Walk Across The Island Of Korčula

Okay, so not all the way across. Walking and hiking paths are plentiful on Korčula Island and may lead to significant, hidden delights. If you require solitude or a break from the busy town, put a walk on your list of things to do in Korcula.

Walking trails on the island are suitable for all levels and are best enjoyed in the spring or early autumn when the temperature is cooler.

For something easy, you can take a stroll around the Lumbarda vineyards.

Another great place to hike is Žrnovo, a small, charming village near Korcula’s town , offering various trails for all fitness levels. A popular hike is a moderate 40-minute walk to Kocje Nature Park in Zrnovo. A protected, unique landscape, Kocje is full of wild-life, rock formations and stone mazes for those looking to explore a little more. Plus, you will also enjoy some stunning views across the channel to the Pelješac mainland.

Local tip: Look out for more than the “usual” sights. Check out the building for its small, almost-missable details.

Cycle Across Korcula Island

Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or simply looking for a leisurely pedal through the countryside, Korcula Island is perfect for exploring by bicycle all year round, thanks to the enjoyable K orčula weather .

Bike rentals are available at multiple locations on Korcula, where you can rent bikes by the hour or by the day, but should you want a little more direction, you can also join guided bike tours.

Heading along the southeast coastline from Korcula Town is an excellent (and hill-free) route with fantastic coastal scenery and roads leading through the stunning Lumbarda vineyard (check out our self-guided cycling tour to Lumbarda for tips and information).

If you’re up for a more challenging day on two wheels, this path to the fishing village of Racisce comes highly recommended!

For the hardcore folks, cycle all 40km of the island or hike to some of the highest points on the island, such as Hum in Vela Luka or Kum in Blato.

Join A Guided Walking Tour

For those looking to get a little history while on the move, a guided walk, including tours of Korčula Old Town, can be a great option. We recommend getting in touch with Ruth​ from Vaja Tours .​ 

6. Make The Most Of The Sea

The Adriatic Sea is so amazingly clear, and the water around Korcula is so still, it’s lake-like. Windsurfing, kayaking, SUPing, snorkeling and diving are just a few ways to embrace the tranquil Adriatic waters of Korcula.

Windsurf On Korčula Island

One of the most popular water sports activities in Korčula, thanks to the glorious K orčula weather,  is windsurfing. The island is in a prime position to catch the perfect afternoon Maestral, a summer wind that allows windsurfers to enjoy plenty of movement out on the waters.

Gliding over the open sea connects guests and locals alike, and all skill levels are welcome to join in.

Windsurfing schools offer lessons in areas on the island where the wind is less intense, and equipment designed for beginners is available for use at these schools.

Explore The Dalmatian Coastline With A Kayak Or SUP

The Adriatic sea surrounding Korčula is a treasure trove of crystal clear waters waiting to be explored. The calm sea provides the perfect conditions for kayaking and SUPing, and there are many places to check out. In particular, the archipelago between Korcula and Lumbarda are lovely, tranquil places to visit – the small islets here, such as Badija, Vrnik & Stupe, are beautiful and so peaceful.

This is a super-fun way of getting around the island if you have the time and fitness. In any case, a kayak or SUP allows you to access hidden coves, bays, and beautiful beaches near Korcula Town that may otherwise be unreachable.

You can rent a sea kayak or SUPS from local agencies for independent exploration in Korcula.

If you prefer a guided kayaking trip, friendly couple Ivka​ and Boris, who run Spirit of Korkyra ,​ will be your perfect guides. 

Explore Korcula’s Underwater Life By Diving

After you’ve spent enough time on the surface of the sea, how about getting deep under? The warm sea and fantastic visibility are ideal for diving . Blessed with some of Croatia’s most transparent waters, Korcula is a dream destination for scuba divers (and snorkelers). Underneath the gentle waves of the relatively shallow Adriatic Sea around the island, you’ll find hidden caves, underwater walls, several shipwrecks, and dozens of fish species.

Most popular dive sites around Korcula are accessible via a short boat ride and located only a short distance from the island. Visibility is almost always phenomenal—you can usually see further than 30 meters (100 feet).

If you plan to dive, you must go with a certified company. 

Several diving schools on the island cater to beginners and experienced divers, and a few dive centers on the island of Korcula offer diving lessons and excursions.

Professionals Steve​ and Jan from Dupin Dive Centre​ are located in Korčula Town and are ready to take you diving, so get in touch with them to make your reservations.

7. Eat & Drink Local

We can’t talk about Korčula and not mention the food and drink scene . Some excellent restaurants are on the island, and al-fresco dining here is the norm!

The location of Korcula makes it perfect for the two great Croatian gastronomy delights : seafood and wine!

Croatia’s southern Dalmatian region is known for its award-winning wines , and Korcula has the ideal environment for producing two of them – Pošip and Grk . You can order these varieties of white wine at most restaurants on the island, so don’t hesitate to indulge in a drink… or two.

Notably, you will not find Grk anywhere other than in the vineyards surrounding Lumbarda. That’s just one more reason to enjoy a glass of this famous wine while relaxing on the shores of Korcula Island.

Eating seafood to your heart’s content is also one of the most incredible things to do on Korčula Island. It’s top-notch eating whenever Croatian seafood is on the menu. Mediterranean fresh fish caught off Korcula’s shores are prepared in local restaurants.

Be sure to try the local specialty “ Zrnovksa Makaruni ,” pasta shaped in tubes with a tasty sauce. Konoba Belin in Zrnovo always has freshly made makaruni on the go & if you fancy a challenge, they also offer pasta-making lessons.

And if you want to be amazed at how quickly the local ladies shape that pasta, the Zrnovski Makaruni Night takes place in the village of Zrnovo every August.

8. Discover The Local Beer Scene

The craft beer industry is booming worldwide, and Croatia is no exception . Even Korčula now has its own brewery and pub!

Lovers of the golden liquid will undoubtedly relish the opportunity to try a local Korcula brew. Simultaneously, many other bars on the island also serve craft beers from elsewhere in Croatia .

9. Go Wine Tasting

The island of Korčula is well known for wine production, especially Grk and Posip. Hard to pronounce, but very delicious, the white wine “Grk” is only produced here on Korcula in the sandy soil in Lumbarda.

There are several family-run wineries in Lumbarda to visit, including Winery Grk, Popic Winery, Lovric Winery, and Bire Winery. There are wineries in Smokvica to see, including Toreta Winery, Grosic Winery, and Black Island Winery.

Opening hours will be more varied this summer, so it may be advisable to contact the winery in advance to let them know you are coming.

Local Tip: We highly recommend heading to Popic or Bartul-Cebalo in Malo Postrana for great wine & spectacular views across the vineyards.

• Lumbarda​ Wineries
• Smokvica​ Wineries

10. Wine Tours

If you would prefer to visit the wineries as part of a winery tour, consider joining a small group trip or private trip. Offerings include a relaxed​ cycling & wine tasting tour, a walking & and tasting tour, and a privately driven wine tasting tour – check them out here .​

The only prerequisite is that you like wine! You’ll learn more about the area and wines, stop for some excellent photo ops, and enjoy the best wines and food. 

11. Track Down Local Produce

Be sure also to source some fabulous local producers whose wines, olive oils, jams, and brandies are so delicious. Most of these producers are small family-run operations, so you know you will not be surrounded by many people during any tastings.

In Zrnovo, you can visit the home of the legendary Diana​ from Eko Skoji for organically produced oils, syrups, and homemade bread.

In Lumbarda, pay a visit to Ana​ and Ivan from OPG Anica Bazika ,​ with whom you will instantly become friends! There’s always something delicious and new to try here, including fig cake, candied orange peels, and an infinite number of jams!

In Sveti Antun, bee-man Vlaho​ from OPG Komparak ​ will make you fall in love with these tiny creatures and his delicious homemade honey.

Again, like the wineries, it would be a good idea to let the local producer know if you plan to come and to make an arrangement. Or book a Taste of Korčula tour  and let the reservations be created for you.

12. Taste Local Olive Oil & Visit An Olive Oil Producer

As well as wine, excellent olive oil is produced on the island, and products using ingredients grown on the island. Visiting a small producer is the best way to try.

Olive oil from Korčula is on the list of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) of the European Commission, which means it’s of superior quality and made according to traditional, authentic methods. There are no fewer than ten olive mills on Korcula and nearly a thousand olive farms! This is one of only a handful of regions in Croatia that produces olive oils of this kind of quality.

Therefore, one of the best things to do in Korčula is to visit a local olive farm to sample different oil types. This, of course, also makes for a great souvenir .

In Vela Luka, the beautiful couple Jerolim​ and Marita from OPG Jerolim ​will welcome you to try their range of tasty products, including flavored olive oil, brandies, carob syrup, and preserves.

13. Experience Korcula Island’s Local Culture

An absolute must-do thing in Korčula is experiencing the traditional sword dance and drama, Moreska. Performed on an open-air stage near the Old Town, visitors can watch this theatrical and cultural dance from the 16th century on Monday and Thursday evenings during the summer months. The dance depicts a conflict between kings, seven circles of dancers “battling” with swords, the beat of drums, and the sound of bagpipes. A sure crowd-pleaser!

Another great cultural experience is learning to cook the local specialty of  Zrnovksa Makaruni . This dish comprises homemade pasta-shaped tubes topped with sauce, somewhat similar to goulash . The family-run Konoba Belin offers pasta-making lessons for those willing to take on the culinary challenge. However, if you prefer not to cook on holiday, we suggest going to Žrnovo to try this restaurant’s version of the dish .

14. Donkey Safari On Korcula Island

Our friends at Korcula Explorer say the Donkey Safari excursion is an excellent way to take in Korcula’s scenery, and it’s fun to do on Korcula with kids . Starting from the town of Žrnovo, ride donkeys through the olive groves to the beautiful Pavja Luka pebble bay.

Here, you will spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming, snorkeling, or even reading that book you haven’t found time for yet. Your group will also enjoy a delicious lunch of grilled fish and wine – and you already know how we feel about seafood and wine on Korcula Island!

15. Take A Korcula Island Buggy Safari Tour

Spend half a day exploring Korcula’s beautiful natural surroundings on a buggy tour with this family operated business! The tour is good for all ages and will take you along the south side of the island.

Some of the highlights of the tour include stunning views of area islands (Hvar, Mljet, Peljesac and Lastovo) along with olive groves, vineyards, ancient stone walls, monuments, beaches and more. 

Snacks, wine tasting (for those over 18 years of age), local delicacies and cold beverages are all included.

Read reviews and book the tour here.

16. watch a korcula sunset with a drink.

Okay, so it’s cliche, but I don’t care. Sunsets and Croatia are a match made in heaven and perfect for the romantics of the world! Did I yet mention the famous K orčula weather? Imagine your friends asking you when you get home about what you did in Korcula, and you show them a sunset pic.

Watch a stunning sunset with a glass of wine in hand, complete with the silhouettes of the fishermen & their boats, and then look up into the night sky for some awesome star-gazing. On certain nights you’ll be able to count numerous shooting stars – that’s a lot of wishes!

You can enjoy the delightful combination of cocktails and sunset views from many vantage points on the island. One particularly great suggestion is Maksimilijan Garden. This intimate bar has one of the best Korcula Island views for sunset watching.

Local tip: Try the homemade limoncello at Maksimilijan Garden.

17. Visit Seba Dizajn & Admire The Scintillating Filigree Jewellery

Whenever I wear my filigree earrings handcrafted by the two men from Seba Dizajn, I can attest that everyone asks, “Where did you get them?”.

It’s hard to imagine, but the artist Doka learned filigree from his father, Gjovalin Seba. The Seba family has a connection with filigree that stretches back an incredible 500+ years. Doka and his father work together in their Korcula Island studio so that you can see the boys at work.

See more of Seba on Facebook or head to the studio at Ulica de Polo, Korcula, beneath Marco Polo Korčula Bell Tower.

18. Hire A Scooter On The Island Of Korcula

There are numerous gorgeous hidden bays , and enclosed beaches dotted all around the Korcula coastline. Hire a scooter and discover your own piece of paradise.

Alternatively, head to the Defora region, where you will find unimaginable beauty.

This is always a fun way to explore the Croatian islands , so hire a scooter to discover the Korcula island at your own pace.

• Head to the beaches (see below for some great suggestions, including fabulous Vaja Beach).
• Stalk out the places that grow the Grk grapes.
• Head to the Defora region, where you will find unimaginable beauty. Visit Orlandusa on the southwest coast – the mesmerizing blue sea is so inviting. Shh, don’t tell everyone, though!
• Take a break from the main town and seek out Smokvica and Cara. Both are two lovely small villages.
• Ride up to Mount Hum, which is really just a hill, and check out the old fort. Local tip: hikers can also get up there on foot!

Brands We Use And Trust

Things to do in korcula island with kids.

Croatian beaches are usually pebbled, but the village of Lumbarda boasts two fantastic sandy beaches . Buckets and spades in hand, it’s time to build sandcastles at Przina or Bilin Zal beaches, just a 15-minute bus ride from Korcula Town.

And afterward, it’s time for ice cream! And yes, the island makes some delicious gelato. Practice your Croatian and ask for “pola-pola”: half ‘n’ half, two flavors for one’s price.

Local tip: Building sandcastles and eating ice cream are some of the fun things kids can do in Croatia; here are some more that we suggest.

Day Trips To Take From Korcula

So, what to do in Korcula after seeing all the main sights? If you plan to stay on Korcula Island for any length, you should take a day trip and explore further.

Check out these tours to see which one suits you best. With these tours, you can book ahead, guarantee your place, and save money . Alternatively, though, you can also find options when you arrive.

• Korcula Island Snorkeling Adventure
• Korcula Island Mountain Bike Tour 
• Hvar Yacht Excursion From Korcula
• Town Of Marco Polo Private Tour
• Mljet Island Yacht Excursion From Korcula Island

Best Beaches On Korcula

Vela przina beach.

One of Korcula Island’s most popular beaches for tourists and locals is Vela Przina Beach. Found in the village of Lumbarda on the southern side of the island (a 15-minute bus ride from Korčula Town), this beach has beautiful sandy shores and is set in a large bay offering fantastic sea views. Arrive early to get a good spot, spend the day here , and enjoy the beach cafes, a game of sand volleyball, and the radiant sunshine.

Bilin Zal Beach

The other sandy beach on Korcula Island, Bilin Zal, is about four kilometers from Korčula Old Town in Lumbarda. The water is not as crystal-clear here due to the sandy bottom, but that sand brings locals and tourists to this beach for a chance to go barefoot onshore and in the sea. And little kids love sandy beaches .

The beach is ideal for families and young children, but it’s important to note that no natural shade is available at this location, so be sure to pack a pop-up beach tent like this one ! If you find yourself hungry, Konoba Bilin Zal is the perfect place to grab a bite .

A Local’s Favorite

The stunning Vaja Beach is a 15-minute walk from the fishing village of Rasisce. Small and hidden, we dare say isolated, this beach will bring out the romantic in you . If you love the contrast between beautiful white pebbles and the azure sea, this picturesque beach is for you.

Vaja Beach is perfect if you want a chance to skip the crowds, find some solitude, and connect with the water and sun. The beach access includes walking up a hill at the end of the Racisce harbor and climbing down a steep slope. Those willing to take on the challenge will be rewarded with the views!

Pupnatska Luka Beach

Located in the bay of Pupnatska Luka, this gorgeous small pebble beach is famous for swimming. Crystal-clear waters invite locals and tourists to take a dip, while even those wishing to remain dry won’t be disappointed by the channel’s picturesque views from the shoreline.

With chair and kayak rentals, portable toilets, various restaurants in the bay, and the close proximity to Korčula Town (15 kilometers away), this beach is incredibly family-friendly and one of the more popular beaches on Korcula Island.

Korcula Archipelago Beaches

Mostly undiscovered by tourists, the Korcula Archipelago offers numerous remote and hidden pebble or rocky swimming areas. These beaches make for the perfect getaway for those who love to snorkel , dive, or live for the adventure of feeling like you’re in undiscovered territory.

To get to the Archipelago, you can hire a water taxi (year-round). Once there, hunt for your perfect little spot of shoreline, take in the wide-open views, and breathe.

• Where To Stay In Korcula

Here are some of our favorite accommodations in Korčula – both hotels and hostels.

1. Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel

The first hotel was built in Korčula (back in 1912); this iconic hotel is uniquely positioned, backed by the historic quarter of Korčula Town, and offers beautiful sea views from its front. Guests will find the stone villa design of the hotel and the vine-covered terrace charming and romantic.

Newly renovated in 2015, everyone will love the 5-star quality and elegance of the rooms for the 4-star price. Beaches are within walking distance, while onsite restaurants serve delicious Dalmatian cuisine with live music in the evenings, making it one of the best hotels in Korčula, Croatia.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

2. Hotel Korsal

Located in Korčula’s traffic-free zone and near the marina, bus, and Korčula ferry stations, this family hotel has received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for four years in a row.

Family rooms are available for larger parties, and each of the hotel’s comfortable, modern rooms comes with free Wi-Fi, TV, air-conditioning, and a private bathroom.

This Korčula hotel is located near a beach and offers terrace dining with a sea view at the onsite restaurant. A great selection of Dalmatian dishes can be enjoyed here, along with a buffet breakfast each morning.

3. Aminess Liburana Hotel

Located on the shores of the Adriatic with a stunning view of Old Town, Aminess Liburana Hotel is a favorite in Korcula.

Cozy rooms feature free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and minibars. Two-floor suites are available with ample space for families on holiday .

An outdoor pool, beach access, and nearby windsurfing & sailing schools make this location excellent for those who enjoy the water. For those looking to relax onsite, a hotel lobby bar, pool bar, and a restaurant are all available, along with a spa for a luxurious massage.

4. Hostel Korčula

The Korčula Hostel is 100 m from Luka Korčulanska Beach and all major attractions. Guests can choose from beds in 6-bed or 8-bed mixed dormitories with access to air conditioning, heating, safety deposit boxes, shared kitchens, shared loos, and free Wi-Fi.

A Full English or Irish breakfast is served onsite, while cafes, restaurants, and supermarkets are within walking distance. If you’re looking for cheap hostels in Korčula that are laidback and clean, this is the ideal choice!

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

No spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Key Festivals & Events On Korcula Island

Wine festival.

Sip the famous white wines of the island with locals and visitors, similar to the sounds of live music. Wineries offer samples of the best wines they have available alongside fresh, hot bread. Enjoy conversation with your travel companions or locals at this event. This festival is not to miss if you visit Korcula in July!

Korkyra Baroque Festival

If you love Baroque music, this festival is for you . Somewhat new to the island (2012 was the festival’s debut), this event features some of the world’s leading Baroque music specialists in the ensemble and soloist categories. Choose any concerts to attend over ten days and delight in the music of this period!

Sword Dance Festival

Held at the beginning of June, this unique festival is one Korcula is famous for. While the sword dance is performed on other occasions, this festival celebrates the dance with an opening ceremony in Korčula Town. In contrast, different styles of dance are performed in surrounding villages. Watching one of these performances is a fantastic way to experience local culture and tradition.

Boat Race Kneze

This annual event takes place in Korcula each June. Organized by a local racing club, teams row in traditional boats from Kneza to Korcula Town. This is an exciting opportunity to watch the local sport and experience a traditional event while on holiday!

Traveling To Korcula Island

Korcula can easily be reached from Croatia’s mainland during the summer months. During the off-season, connections can be a bit trickier but are not impossible to find.

Visiting Korcula is one of our favorite day trips from Dubrovnik . Leaving the mainland from either Dubrovnik ( skip the crowds for a day! ) or Split is the most convenient way to reach the island unless you’ve charted a sailing adventure starting from another location.

Korčula Ferry

May to October, a ferry  from Dubrovnik to Korčula is available. You can take a ferry from Split to Korcula Island or Vela Luka all year round. Direct passenger ferries from Mljet to Korcula run in July and August, and other indirect routes are available during the other months.

A bus from Dubrovnik to Korčula leaves the central Dubrovnik bus station daily at 3 p.m. (subject to change). It gets you to Korcula Island just after 6 p.m.

All year round, a coach from Dubrovnik to Korcula travels along the coast to a car or passenger ferry in Orebic, depending on your preference. The car ferry option allows passengers to continue taking the bus once on Korcula Island to Korčula Town and on to Vela Luka if needed.

A bus from Split runs to Dubrovnik, and, alternatively, another originating in Zagreb stops in Split with a final destination of Korcula/Vela Luka (runs through the night).

Should you want a car or taxi option, you can also drive yourself or be escorted by a private cab onto the island using the same Orebic car ferry option.

Book your car rental here.

Traveling to further destinations.

Traveling further after a visit to Korčula Island is as easy as catching any of the ferries or buses that initially got you to the island. You’ll most likely travel from Korcula to Dubrovnik , Split, or somewhere along the Peljesac Peninsula. Oysters in Ston, anyone?

Did we miss any on this list? Have you been to Korcula Island, Croatia? What were your top things to do in Korcula?

• A List Of Do’s And Don’ts Of Travel To Croatia  
• Visit Croatia’s UNESCO Geopark
• Advent In Zadar – Activities Guide
• The Elafiti Islands In Croatia

Photo credits: A special thanks to my dearly departed friend Ruth Seba for giving me several of these photos to use.

Comments (13)

Korcula ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

Korcula (and the south Riviera of Korcula) is the most beautiful Island in Europe with most sunny days :-)

Oh I’d love to be there!!

What a lot of options. Moreska looks interesting, and I’d want to check out a lot of the beaches (water at Vaja beach looks beautiful), as well as one – or all three – of those coffee bars.

AND…. that’s not all. There is so much more. But with so many things already, we thought we better stop writing :D

Yet another supremely comprehensive article. You really are rather good at these, SJ and Mate ;) I stayed dead opposite Vinum Bonum and loved the place! So friendly. Plus I hired a scooter and had a really good look round, Račišće, Pupnat, Zavalatica, Čara and finally Lumbarda – but I omitted to try Grk while I was there :( Keep the articles and trip ideas coming, I love to read all about them.

Thanks, Jon. We try – we also as people we know who have been so we can include stuff we have not done. Even still. so much is missing. I hope to get back this summer and add to it!

❤️this place is heavenly

Will be there in 5 weeks

Hard to pick a favourite……. But this comes in way up there! Absolutely loved my stay there

Can’t wait to see Korcula in a few weeks

My birthplace

The view from my balcony while I stayed in Korcula was just as amazing as this one! I fell in with Croatia during my visit there a couple of years ago & haven’t stopped telling people about it since! Might just have to come back for another holiday one day

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!

Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List!

Subscribe Now For Instant Access To Stress-Free Packing

Visit Dubrovnik

History of Korčula

The island of Korčula has been inhabited since prehistoric times, with past traces of life being uncovered at many places on the island. The oldest finds were stone knives from the Neolithic age discovered on the islet of Badija near Korčula. The site with the richest Neolithic age finds is Vela spilja (Large Cave) at Vela Luka.

The island was inhabited by the Greeks in the 6th century BC, first at Vela Luka, and it was also colonized by Knids who called the island Korkyra Melaina. Somewhat later on the other side of the island, in the area where Lumbarda is located today, Greeks settled from the island of Vis (Issa), founding a separate settlement. In the 1st century BC, the island, with ther rest of Dalmatia, was conquered by the Romans, who called it Corcyra Nigra. In 7th century A.D., the Slavs-Croats made their way to the Adriatic coast and soon formed their own state, first a principality, but later becoming a kingdom of its own with the crowning of the first Croatian King Tomislav in 925. Korčula was also included within its borders. The Roman population fled from Salona from the Slavs to the islands of Brač, Hvar and Korčula, and after the situation settled, the majority returned to their original places of residence, while the rest assimilated with the settlers.

In the year 1000, the Venetian Doge Petar II Orseolo took over the Dalmatian cities and islands, thus making Korčula falling under Venetian rule. Following this, the rulers of Korčula changed frequently: the Venetians were replaced by the Zahumlje governors, followed by the Austro-Hungarian kings before the Venetians took over again, and from 1413 to 1420 the island was under the Dubrovnik Republic before again falling under Venice in 1420, which lasted until 1792. When Napoleon brought down the Venetian Republic, Dalmatia was under Austrian rule for a short time before the French arrived. From 1804 to 1805, Korčula was under French, then Russian rule, before the French again took control from 1897 to 1913. The English became rulers of the island in 1815, when the Vienna Congress set out the new borders of Europe.

Dalmatia came under Austrian rule and remained until the end of World War I, but only in 1921 was the newly created Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes formed, which later took on the name Yugoslavia. Following the multi-party elections in 1990, the citizens of Croatia decided in a referendum to secede from Yugoslavia, and the independent state of the Republic of Croatia was declared.

Korčula (City)

Korčula is a historically fortified town on the protected east coast of the island of Korčula, with an approximate population of 2900 inhabitants. The old city is surrounded by walls, and the streets are arranged in a herringbone pattern allowing free circulation of air but protecting against strong winds. The town’s historic sites include the central Gothic and Renaissance Cathedral of St Mark, the Town Hall and the massive city fortifications. The 15th-century Franciscan monastery with a beautiful cloister is situated on the islet of Badija, near Korčula Town.

Informacije Korčula Tourist Board Trg 19. travnja 1921., 40 20260 Korčula

[email protected] www.visitkorcula.eu Tel: +385 (0) 20 715701

Badija is an islet in the eastern part of the Pelješac Channel with a surface of approx. 1 km2. The Ježevica Channel separates it from the island of Korčula. The average yearly temperature is 13°C. Along the coast, there are good anchoring sites for mid-sized vessels, while small boats can be moored west of the monastery.

Almost the entire surface of Badija is covered in macchia thickets and pine woods, with the highest point on the island being only 74m. The monastery and single nave church there today were erected in the late Gothic style, after 1420. In 2003 the monastery was returned into the ownership of the Franciscans and can today be visited upon request. For more information please visit ( www.badija.com ). The Chapel of St. Catherine (Sv. Katarina), dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries and situated on the hill behind the monastery. Badija and all of its surrounding natural beauty can be explored with a leisurely stroll along the gravel pathway, which covers the entire islet.

Information Korčula Tourist Board Trg 19. travnja 1921., 40 20260 Korčula [email protected] www.visitkorcula.eu Tel: +385 (0) 20 715701

The municipality of Blato has about 4000 residents, while the town itself can be reached via the main island road from Smokvica. It passes through the forested sections of the centre of Korčula. The town was built in the form of an amphitheatre on several hills surrounding a small central valley. A long alley of linden trees called Zlinja stretches through the valley, and in recent times, all the public buildings have been constructed here: the school, hotel, banks, shops, the municipal buildings, health clinics and others.

In the old centre south of Zlinja, the triple nave parish Church of All Saints is located on the large tiled square. This church, first mentioned in the early middle ages, was repurposed and adapted several times, with its bell tower design dating to the Baroque period somewhere between the 17th and 18th century. The main altar bears a painting by the Venetian master Girolama Da Santa Croce: the All Saints from 1540. The Chapel of St. Vincenza the martyr, with its richly ornamented marble altar, holy water basin and liturgical silver ornaments was added to the southern nave in the 18th century.

The feast of this saint is celebrated on 28 April, which is also when the municipality of Blato celebrates its day. A great procession passes through the entire town, and a ceremonial gathering (Kumpanija) is held on the main square before the church. The building next to the church contains a valuable collection of art, precious documents and archaeological finds tied to the history of Blato.

There are a great number of small churches and chapels in the town and the surrounding settlements. The oldest is St. Kuzma and Damjan from the 6th century, followed by St. Mary of the Fields, St. Martin and others. The Korčula nobility also built their castles and villas here, one example being the Arneri summer residence in the middle of the town, made in the baroque style. The villa has been planned to house a local museum with archaeological, historical and ethnological collections. Today the residents of Blato are more involved in tourism and other economic branches, while there are several small industries: Radež and Triklop.

The Knight’s Association Kumpanija is very active, and the association, along with the fencing association of the same name, nurture the town’s folklore, songs and culture. The cultural-artistic society “Petar Mila”t also helps keep the musical and folklore traditions alive.

The paved road towards the north coast passes by both the old and new graveyard and takes you to the Prigradica harbour, where there is a hotel, several summer residences and small bed and breakfasts along the seashore, with beautiful beaches nearby. Blato is the hometown to a number of modern Croatian artists, cultural participants, scientists, musicians and more. Mary of the Risen Christ Petković, a servant of God, was born in Blato in 1892. On 6 June 2003, Pope John Paul II beatified her at a ceremony in Dubrovnik.

Information Blato Tourist Board Trg dr. F. Tuđmana 4 20271 Blato [email protected] www.tzo-blato.hr Tel: +385 (0) 20 851850 Fax: +385 (0) 20 851241

Brna, a bay, harbour and village of the same name on the south coast of the island of Korčula, 4 km southwest of the town of Smokvica and its port. The bay is divided into two parts by the Mali Zaglav peninsula; part of the village and the harbour are situated in the eastern part of the bay.

The coastline is steep from the village of Prižba in the west to the village of Zavalatica in the east. The smaller coves are partially sandy, and are heavily vegetated with bushes and pines. There is a series of small islets off the coast between Brna and Prižba: Vrhovnjak, Crklica, Stupa, Otočac and Sridnjak.

In the 19th century, Brna developed as a port for the export of wine from Smokvica to harbours in the Adriatic and the Mediterranean. In recent years, it has turned to tourism. With good prospects for relaxation and accommodation, tourists can enjoy seafood delicacies in the taverns with excellent white wines (Pošip and Rukatac) from Smokvica. Istruga Bay, near Brna, is filled with medicinal mud, which is frequently used by the locals despite there still being no organized therapy available.

Information Smokvica Tourist Board Brna bb, 20272 Smokvica [email protected] www.brna.hr Tel: +385 (0) 20 832255 Fax: +385 (0) 20 832188

This municipality with over a thousand residents is situated 6 kilometres east of Korčula. It stretches from a shoreline of small coves to the nearby hills, and is surrounded by vast sandy vineyards. A paved road leads to Lumbarda, passing through a picturesque landscape of pine woods and olive groves. This is the site of Greek (Hellenistic) agricultural settlement from the 3rd century BC from which the Psefizma and Gnathia grave vases (now on display in the town museum) originated.

Since the 16th century, the wealthy Korčula landowners and noblemen built their fortified summer villas (Kaštele) at selected locations in Lumbarda. Some are still preserved and inhabited today, including the Nobilo, Milina and Kršinić villas. On the hills around the old part of the town, Vela glavica, we have the triple nave Church of St Rok, the patron saint of Lumbarda. There are also several smaller older chapels in the town: St. Bartholomew (Bartul), St. Peter and Paul, St. Barbara and the Chapel of the Nativity. Surrounded by vineyards, the Chapel of the Holy Cross from 1774 and its characteristic cloisters stand out in particular.

For centuries, the people of Lumbarda have lived off the land, primarily the vineyards. They have fished and worked in the stone quarries and worked as stone masons. Several distinguished Croatian artists, sculptors and painters were born here: Ivo Lozica (1910-1943), Lujo Lozica (1945), Stipe Nobilo (1945), and the most significant among them being Frano Kršinić (1897-1981). His piece, a bronze monument honoring the fallen in World War II, stands in the town centre while his bronze relief, “Fishermen”, is on the hotel building. Not far is the home-studio and collection of local sculptor, amateur and farmer Ivan Jurjević-Knez (1920) and his works in stone and wood.

Today, the locals work in tourism as well as agriculture. In addition to the hotels, there are several campgrounds and many private bed and breakfasts, hospitality facilities, shops and a small marina. The cultural-artistic society “Ivo Lozica” is centered in Lumbarda, and nurtures music, singing, folklore and dramatic amateurism.

Information Lumbarda Tourist Board Prvi žal bb, 20263 Lumbarda [email protected] www.visitlumbarda.eu Tel/Fax +385 (0) 20 712005

Prigradica is a town on the northern coast of the island of Korčula, near Blato. Once a well known export harbour for the highly esteemed Blato wine and olive oil, today Prigradica is a tourist town which has preserved its authentic rustical appeal. The nearby villages, untouched for centuries, present a unique way to experience the past.

This stunning bay on the south side of the island of Korčula is one of the loveliest on the island. Its surroundings are embellished with vineyards and luxurious villas, coniferous forest and rocky cliffs.

This village with 400 residents is situated 11 kilometres from Korčula. The winding road from Žrnovo climbs up the centre of the island to a small valley between the surrounding slopes, where this small and humble village is nestled. Its inhabitants were farmers and livestock breeders, and these today continue to be the main economic activities, though many people work in construction, tourism and other branches. The Church of Our Lady of Snow, renovated and adapted several times, is in the centre of the village. Nearby, at the graveyard, is the Church of St. George (Jurja) from the 15th century, with several dilapidated old chapels in the surrounding areas.

The new island road extends on from Pupnat and climbs quite high, offering a lovely view on a large part of the island’s south coast, especially on the Pupnat harbour with its dense pine woods, while the islands of Lastovo and Mljet can be seen out towards the open sea. Pupnat harbour is connected by a newly cemented road and can be reached by car. The panorama of the south coast is even lovelier if you take the old road, which winds up the slopes, while hikers can walk down the walking trails to the seashore.

This village of about 400 residents is accessible by the paved road from Korčula, which stretches along the seashore towards the west, passing by the following bays: Medvidnjak, Žrnovska Banja, Vrbovica and Kneža, where beaches, campgrounds and vacation homes are located. In Kneža, formerly a small fishing village, traces of Roman mosaics have been found, while remnants of Roman structures were found at Banja.

At the end of a 12 kilometre-long road, in a large sheltered bay, lies Račišće, a village founded in the 17th century when refugees, fleeing from the Turks in Herzegovina and the Makarska coastal region arrived. In the past, its inhabitants were primarily fishermen, farmers, livestock breeders and sailors. Today, they are mostly sailors.

The Church of the Mother of God is from 1682, and a small loggia stands before it. Today’s parish Church of St. Nicholas was built at the end of the 19th century.

Information Korčula Tourist Board Trg 19.travnja 1921., 40 20260 Korčula [email protected] www.visitkorcula.eu Tel: +385 (0) 20 715701

Smokvica is hidden in the foothills of Vela and Mala obala, protected from wind and open to the sun and the sea. It is situated in a place where the island is widest and the relief diversified. Smokvica has a pleasant Mediterranean climate. It is criss-crossed by prehistorical gullies and antic roads, it is surrounded by beautiful nature, wine yards and olive grows.

The people have always been involved in agriculture, especially in grape growing and wine production.  Smokvica is the home to Pošip, one of the most famous Croatian white wines. Stone houses, idyllic streets, rich cultural heritage, a hundred year-old vineyard and olive groves, as well as the charm of this island village takes you back to old times. The Church of Blessed Virgin of Purification with its bell tower, Vela and Mala Pijaca and the lodge from 1700 dominate the village.

The old village centre can be found in the vicinity of St. Michael’s church. Present-day Smokvica invites you to enjoy the beautiful nature, to visit cultural and historical sites, explore some of the many walking and cycling paths and taste high-quality wine in some of the local wineries and restaurants, complete with gastro specialities.

Vela Luka is the largest town on the island numbering 5000 inhabitants in the municipalityand being located 42 kilometres from the town of Korčula. It is the final destination on the highway that runs across the island. The town developed at the end of the 19th century in a deep, protected inlet.

Alongside residential homes, there are also several hotels and the Kalos rehabilitation centre for rheumatic diseases. The citizens work in agriculture, fishing, and tourism, although many are employed at the shipyard “Greben”, the fish factory “Jadranka” and other smaller industrial and economic production facilities. The cultural centre is located in the renovated Baroque building, and the old Kaštel villa is the site of a valuable archaeological collection gathered from the well known Neolithic site Vela Špilja.

Alongside these historic pieces, there is also a collection of modern art: paintings, graphics and sculptures created by local and international artists donated to Vela Luka in the 1970s. In the large private exhibition in the Anka Prizmić Sege Gallery, opened in 1983, there are numerous sculptures and paintings by this local artist. The parish Church of St. Ivan is a classical construction completed in 1848.

Displayed at the Church are the Stations of the Cross, 15 smaller reliefs made by Anka Prizmić. The Chapel of St. Vincent from 1589 was constructed in phases; there is a bust of Don Ivo Oreb, a priest that encouraged the cultural development of this town during the 20th century, the work of Anka Prizmić. On top of the chapel, there is a bronze Pieta by the same artist.

The Hum cultural artist society nurtures music and folklore, as well as choir singing. There are numerous a capella singing groups (klapa) in the town; the best known are Ošjak and Greben which have international renown. There are numerous coves perfect for swimming near Vela Luka, with the forested islet Ošjak being especially appealing.

Information Vela Luka Tourist Board Obala 3 br.19 20270 Vela Luka [email protected] www.tzvelaluka.hr  Tel/Fax: +385 (0) 20 813619

This typical old vineyard settlement has about 600 residents and is located 25 kilometres away from Korčula by the main island road. Built on the southern slopes of a hill, the village land is a vast, fertile field  covered in vineyards. This is where the special wine sort Pošip is grown. The village has a wine cellar where this wine sort is produced. In the centre of the village is the parish Church of St. Peter from the 15th century, adapted several times, and its bell tower was added in the 1980s.

Centuries-old cypress trees grow on the small tiled square before the church. The main altar of the church has a painting of Christ, the work of the distinguished Venetian Renaissance painter Jacob Bassan from the end of the 16th century. As in the other villages on the island, the Korčula landowners and noblemen built their summer residences in the nearby inlet of Zavalatica. In the midst of the vineyards are the old and new local graveyards with the votive Church of Our Lady of the Čara Fields from the 14th century, which received its current appearance in the Baroque period.

The front of its main altar is a relief scene from the life of the Mother of God. This late Gothic alabaster relief is of English origin, from the Nottingham workshop from the 15th century. It arrived by sea to the nearby port of Čavić, with a legend concerning its mysterious arrival to Čara. The church is the central pilgrimage sanctuary on the island of Korčula: on the patron saint’s day of St. Jacob on July 25th , a great ceremony is held, with a procession passing through the whole of the Čara fields, carrying the image of the Mother of God of the altar, followed by people from all over the island. The Crnomiri artistic society is founded in Čara. This society received its name from the legendary brothers who once fought bravely for the rights of serfs against the Venetian nobility and rectors.

In nearby Zavalatica inlet to the south (2 kilometres by road) there is a series of modernly equipped family-run bed and breakfasts right on the seashore.

This village, with around 1400 inhabitants, was first mentioned in the early Middle Ages. It is located 4 kilometres from Korčula and is accessible by a wide paved highway. The highway connecting the island covers the village, stretching out onto the surrounding hills, and is made up of several settlements: Prvo Selo, Kampuš, Postrana and Brdo. Next to the old houses with their verandas and tiled courtyards are small barns built from dry stone walls and covered with stone tiles. There are also several summer homes and villas built by Korčula’s nobility and landowners. Not far from the village centre and main highway, on a rocky mountain surrounded by trees, is the parish Church of St. Martin from the 14th century, which was later expanded.

In Postrana, at the bottom of the hill, is the Church of St. Rocco, located on the tiled square where the old “Kostila” trees grow. This is where the traditional single-sword dance Mostra is held. Near the settlement is the graveyard and the Church of St. Vid from the 13th century, and there are several small, old chapels in the settlement. Villa Baničević, built by the well-known noble family in Postrana, is well maintained. The façade bears a plaque with a crest and Latin phrase of the most respected member of the family, Jakova, who lived in the 16th century and was a well-known European humanist.

In the past, the inhabitants of Žrnovo worked in agriculture (wine making, olive growing, vegetable growing) and quarrying stone . Nowadays many are employed in construction and tourism. In the nearby inlets (on the northern coast) Žrnovska Banja, Medvidnjak, and Vrbovica, there are several modern family bed and breakfasts and campgrounds located on the sea side. In the village, the cultural-artistic society Mišnice presents amateur drama and folklore, while the society “Bratska sloga” deals primarily with village traditions and folklore. In Žrnovo, several modern Croatian painters and sculptors were born (Radoslav Duhović, sculptor; Nikola Skokandić, graphic artist; Ante Radovanović, Frano Cebalo, Abel Brcić, painters), as well as the most distinguished Croatian literary academic, Petar Šegedin.

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days on Korcula Itinerary

Published on June 15, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a Korcula itinerary is an excellent way to unwind and relax when visiting Croatia . Located off the Dalmatian coast from Dubrovnik, the island of Korcula is one of the country’s most popular islands to visit and it isn’t hard to see why. Though many visit as a simple day trip, spending 2 to 3 days on Korcula is an excellent way to really get the most out of the island and even explore some nearby areas.

If you’re considering visiting Korcula island and want to know what to do here, this itinerary will help you plan out the perfect escape to this gorgeous and dynamic Croatian paradise!

Table of Contents

How Many Days on Korcula?

Before mapping out an itinerary, you may be wondering how many days to spend on Korcula in order to do it justice. Even a day trip to Korcula is doable and you can cover a lot of ground, however, if you want to have a relaxing holiday and manage to see a lot of the island, plan to spend at least 2 days on Korcula.

If you plan to see Korcula in 2 days, then you’ll have time to explore the Old Town, sample some Grk wine in Lumbarda, take advantage of some of the best beaches on the island, go wine tasting and tour some wineries that lie a bit inland.

For those with more time, 3 days on Korcula can be ideal if you either want to relax on the beach for a day or are keen to explore the nearby Peljesac Peninsula. This will allow you to really get to know this area of Croatia and will be an altogether more relaxing time.

Getting To & Around Korcula

Getting to Korcula is another thing that’s worth considering when planning your trip. As an island, Korcula is only accessible via ferry or personal boat but there are a few options open to you for those arriving to the island.

Assuming you don’t have your own boat to reach Korcula, you’re going to access the island via ferry. There are ferries to Korcula from Dubrovnik , the town of Orebic and Split .

The ferry to Korcula from Dubrovnik is only a passenger ferry and, therefore, you cannot take a car. It also only operates seasonally. You can  view ferry schedules here.

The most frequent ferries go from Orebic on the Peljesac Peninsula to Korcula Town. These are car ferries and the journey time is only about fifteen minutes. Orebic is located about a 2-hour drive north of Dubrovnik.

You can also catch a car ferry from the city of Split to the town of Vela Luka on the western end of Korcula. This journey takes about 3 hours and doesn’t sail nearly as frequently as the Orebic to Korcula Town ferry.

In general, if you’re spending more than a day visiting the island, you’re going to want to have your own car in order to get to all of the best things to do in Korcula.

It makes it a lot easier to get around and you can reach some of the more remote beaches and explore a number of different villages with ease. You can browse car rental options here.

However, if you’re up for it, Korcula is also quite cycle friendly and it is popular to hire bicycles on the island. It’s not a very mountainous island (unlike an island like Hvar ) and you will see many cyclists pedalling all over the island.

2 to 3-Day Korcula Itinerary

Whether you have 2 days to spend on Korcula or 3, this itinerary is ideal to help you plan out the ideal trip to explore this island. Covering the historic old town, beautiful beaches and plenty of wineries, this is sure to be a trip you won’t soon forget.

Day 1 – Korcula Town & Lumbarda

Korcula old town.

No trip to Korcula is complete without taking the time to explore the beautiful old town of Korcula. If you’re arriving from Dubrovnik or Orebic, this is where you will arrive into and Korcula Town also makes for a great place to base yourself on the island.

Claiming to be the birthplace of Marco Polo (though there is no real evidence to back this up), Korcula Old Town is a compact and completely charming area to explore either independently or on a walking tour. Enter through the imposing Old Town Gate and take the time to wander through the winding, cobbled streets.

Make your way to the St Mark’s Church and, if you’re up to it, you can even climb the bell tower. If you want to learn more about the history of the island, you can also pop into the Korcula Town Museum. Not far, you can also find the alleged birthplace of Marco Polo.

Making your way over to the seaside, take in the Kanavelic Tower – one of the few towers still standing of the old city walls. There are also fantastic views of the Adriatic and the Peljesac Peninsula.

For those who want to go for a swim, there are some small beaches and swimming areas along the promenade in Korcula Town, however, there are better beaches in Lumbarda.

And if you want to take in an incredible view, make your way up some of the winding stepped pathways outside of the old town to the Panorama Korcula viewpoint – here you can get a bird’s eye view of the picture-perfect old town.

Degustation and Sveti Antun Church

Making your way out of the old town, it’s about a 20-minute walk (or a very quick drive or bicycle ride) to OPG Komparak, which is a great place to stop by and sample some local products.

Known mostly for organic, local honey, you can learn a bit about beekeeping and also sample a few kinds of honey along with some delicious jams and fresh-pressed extra virgin olive oil.

They also distil their own gin here and you can even do a tasting of that if that interests you! This is also a great place to pick up some unique, local souvenirs to take home with you.

Not far from OPG Komparak, you will find the Sveti Antun Church which is a historic church sat atop a hilltop. There is a steep, stone staircase to climb up to visit this church, but it is peaceful and tranquil up there and you can get some great views of the surrounding area from the top.

Now it’s time to make your way to the town of Lumbarda, which is only about 6 kilometres from the church – it’s a very quick drive and is also accessible by bicycle. There are also organised tours such as  this wine tour  or  this wine and bike tour.

Lumbarda Town itself is pretty sleepy with not much going on, but it’s worth visiting because the town is known for having some of Croatia’s only sandy beaches and also for its wine production.

Lumbarda is studded with countless vineyards and it is incredibly picturesque. It is also home to a unique white grape variety – Grk – that only grows in this specific area on Korcula.

Because the Grk grape needs sandy soil, it’s not ideal for anywhere else in Croatia. The vine also only produces female flowers and, therefore, cannot self-pollinate. This means that Grk vines must be grown in between Plavac Mali vines – a red grape variety that is quite commonly found throughout Croatia.

Lumbarda is dotted with wineries and you can spend your afternoon hopping between them and sampling some local vintages. Most wineries also offer food so you can enjoy a platter with local cheese, charcuterie, anchovies and olive oil all while sipping a chilled glass of Grk white wine.

We highly recommend heading to Sabulum Winery and Vitis Winery, however, there are plenty more to choose from in the town of Lumbarda and they’re all very easy to access.

Dinner and Drinks in Korcula Town

If you haven’t had enough local wine in Lumbarda, head back to Korcula town for your evening and grab a pre-dinner drink at Mariolo Wine Bar. Tucked in a quiet alleyway in the old town, they have a great list of Croatian wines available by the glass.

And if you’re looking for a great dinner option, then head to Konoba Aterina . They have a local, seasonal menu with great specials where you can sample delicious local specialities at good prices. They also have a lovely outdoor terrace to enjoy.

Day 2 – Southern Beaches & Smokvica

Pupnatska luka beach.

On your second day, it’s time to venture a bit further out from Korcula Town and Lumbarda and explore some of the beautiful beaches on the southern coast of the island.

In fact, if you’re stuck choosing between islands like Hvar or Korcula and you want to have a number of gorgeous beaches to choose from, then Korcula has a number of great ones to choose from.

Begin your day at, arguably, one of the most beautiful pebble beaches on the island – Pupnatska Luka. To reach this beach, direct yourself to the View Point Pupnat on Google Maps and follow the small road down to the beach – it isn’t listed on maps but the road is paved and in good knick (though there are some switchbacks).

From the beach car park, there is a small staircase down to the beach and, for those who want to have a drink or refreshment, there is also a beach bar here. The beach itself is tranquil and there is plenty of room for those looking to spread out a towel, go for a swim and simply enjoy a day here.

If you’re looking for other great beaches nearby, the smaller Zitna Beach is a great option and the quiet Zal Beach in Brna Town is also a nice place to stop for a splash in the Adriatic.

If you want to explore more of the island, then after soaking up the sun on the beach, consider heading to the western end of Korcula to visit the second-largest town of Vela Luka.

If you arrive on a ferry via Split, this was your port of entry, however, it’s very much not as visited of a town and it has a much more local vibe than old town Korcula.

Take the time to wander along the seaside promenade and maybe pop into a cafe for a cup of coffee or an ice cream. There are also restaurants here where you can get a bite to eat for lunch.

As you’re driving across the island, you will be winding your way through hectares and hectares of vineyards. There are countless wineries throughout Korcula and if you want to sample some more local wines, then consider making a stop in the village of Smokvica.

This town is home to the white Posip grape (a common grape variety found throughout Croatia but particularly on Korcula and on the Peljesac Peninsula). However, there are plenty of other grapes and wines to sip at the wineries here, as well.

Much like in Lumbarda, there are several different wineries to hop between where you can sample some local wines and have a plate of food while learning more about winemaking in this area.

The views of the valleys below are also absolutely stunning so it’s worth coming here just for these vistas alone.

Day 3 – Peljesac Peninsula

Peljesac day trip.

The final day of this Korcula itinerary will see you heading off of the island and over to the Peljesac Peninsula. Though this peninsula is quite a well-known destination among European tourists, it’s not as popular for visitors form further afield and you can get quite a good, off-the-beaten-path experience here if that’s what you’re after.

Start by taking the ferry from Korcula Town to Orebic (it’s only about fifteen minutes). Orebic is worth exploring in its own right – you can definitely grab a coffee here – but there is far more to see than this town.

Peljesac, like Korcula, is completely covered in vineyards and there are a number of incredible wines to sample and wineries to visit. And if you’re into other gastronomic products, the peninsula is also known for its mussels and its oysters and you will see farms dotting the coastline.

Those looking for a good place for a swim will find plenty of great, calm and secluded swimming spots and places to splash around. And there are also beautiful villages and historic towns to explore.

One particularly popular place to visit is the walled town of Ston, where you can enjoy a walk along the city walls with a fraction of the crowds found in Dubrovnik!

And if you’re a fan of modern architecture, make sure to take in the beautiful and brand-new Peljeski Most – a bridge that connects the peninsula with the Croatian mainland and prevents having to cross into Bosnia & Herzegovina when driving to or from Dubrovnik .

Where to Stay on Korcula

Apartments Milion – Located in the heart of Korcula Town, this is a great place to base yourself when exploring the island. They offer both double rooms and fully furnished flats along with plenty of great amenities for guests to enjoy.

Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel – Those looking for a luxury option while visiting this beautiful island will love this plush hotel. Located on the coast in the centre of Korcula’s old town, they have many lovely rooms on offer along with breakfast, room service and an on-site bar.

Villa Nobilo – If you’re after a quiet, self-catering stay close to some of the best wineries on Korcula, then this place in the village of Lumbarda is an excellent choice. There are several fully-furnished studios to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring the island.

Hostel Korcula – Budget travellers to this Croatian island will love this highly-rated hostel. Located in the centre of Korcula Town, they have a range of dorms and private options available along with good common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Korcula hotels!

Planning the perfect Korcula itinerary is truly a joy when you consider just how much this lovely Croatian island has to offer. From wineries to beaches to historic towns, Korcula is the ultimate Dalmatian island escape.

Are you planning a trip to Korcula? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

10 Tips for Planning a Trip to Croatia

Is Croatia Expensive? Croatia Trip Cost Guide in 2024

Hvar or Korcula: Which Croatian Island to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Top 10 things to do on Korcula

Leaving from...

Going to...

Get your bucket list ready. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do in Korčula and how to experience them. Need help planning your trip? Check out our tips for visiting Korčula — you’ll find the best restaurants, where to stay, how to get around and more!

What to expect in Korčula

Korčula is Croatia’s 6th largest island, located directly in the middle of Split and Dubrovnik .  Covered in lush pine forests, vineyards and historical treasures, it’s the reason why people want to visit Korčula.

Despite being one of Croatia’s more popular islands, Korčula has managed to preserve its authentic feel, creating an ambience of tranquillity and familiarity.

Your beautifully sunny days on the island can be spent eating great food, drinking incredible wine, lounging on the beach, or trying to windsurf. That doesn’t sound too bad, does it? 

Note that the tranquillity of Korčula might not be everyone’s favourite, though. If you’re looking for somewhere a bit livelier, one of the other islands such as Hvar or Brač may be more interesting to you.

Top tours in and around Korčula

• Stunning sunset kayaking tour for €62
• Private Old Town tour with a licensed guide for €69
• Beach hopping buggy adventure around Korčula for €110

#1 Explore Korčula Town

Cast out into the ocean and surrounded by ancient city walls, Korčula Town is somewhere you’re guaranteed to fall in love with.

With around 3,000 inhabitants living in Korčula Town, you’ll be swept up into daily life. Alongside the locals, you can enjoy the monuments, cafes, restaurants, hotels and open-air cinema.

The best way to explore Korčula Town is to simply get lost. Immerse yourself in the hidden courtyards, backstreets and tucked-away alleys. That’s where you’ll find the real Korčula.

Nicknamed ‘little Dubrovnik’, the town boasts stunning Venetian-style architecture with iconic red roofs.

There are a number of spots that we recommend visiting which can be found below.

If you like to know a bit about what you’re looking at, join this private tour with a licensed guide to learn all about Korčula.

#2 Climb to the top of St Mark’s Cathedral

If there is one place everyone remembers from their trip to Korčula, it’s St Mark’s Cathedral .

Built in the 15th century by local masters and craftsmen of stone masonry, it’s certainly a work of art. The Gothic-Renaissance style is very impressive.

St Mark’s Cathedral is probably the most important building in Korčula Old Town. It’s definitely the place to get the best view of the town and the Adriatic Sea.

Sitting on the highest point on the peninsula, once you climb to the top of the clock tower, you will be amazed. You’ll be greeted with panoramic views, the perfect place to watch the sunset.

It costs just €3 to get this incredible view.

#3 Enjoy the best beaches in Korčula

You’re on an island, so is there anything better than spending the day relaxing on a beach?

Vela Przina Beach

Vela Przina is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Due to its gently sloping, sandy shore, it’s the best for a refreshing swim or relaxation on the sand. 

If you head to the east of the beach, you’ll be able to escape the crowds and enjoy the peace.

In peak season, there is also a bar and a few small that open their doors.

Bacva Beach

Bacva Beach is the place to go if you’re looking for the incredibly blue waters that Croatia is famous for.

You’ll need to drive to this beach, as it’s just over 13 km from Korčula Town, but it’s definitely worth it. This also means that you get to escape some of the crowds.

Bacva Beach is a pebbly beach. Don’t worry, these are small stones made smooth by the water and sand, making them comfortable to lay on.

Pupnatska Luka Beach

Another unmissable beach is Pupnatska Luka Beach . A 15-minute drive from Korčula Town, this beach is surrounded by dense forests and crystal-clear water. 

At this fine gravel beach, you’ll also find a small restaurant serving great food and drinks.

One efficient and fun way to hit a number of Korčula’s beaches is on this adrenaline-fulled buggy adventure . You’ll visit stunning beaches, get the chance to snorkel, visit vineyards and discover ancient olive groves.

Book your buggy adventure around Korčula for €102.

#4 Explore the island of Korčula by bicycle 

Due to its mild climate, Korčula is the perfect cycling destination all year round.

And hiring a bike is one of the most recommended things to do in Korčula.

Why is Korčula perfect for cycling?

With its quiet country lanes and off-road trails, Korčula is ideal for all levels of bikers. The stunning paths take you through vineyards, along the coast and on mountains.

Unlike in a car, you won’t zoom past these incredible sights. Instead, you’ll be able to really take them in.

You can find a map of all of the main cycling routes around Korčula here . However, most of the roads are pretty quiet, so it’s possible to cycle nearly everywhere on the island.

Hiring a bike for the day will cost around €13.

TIP: Our compact Korčula Travel Guide shows you the best areas to stay, restaurants you don’t want to miss and many more tips for your visit to Korčula!

#5 Discover rich vineyards and try some incredible wine

We can’t rave about Croatian wine enough. It’s debatably some of the best in the world. Either way, it’s a gem hidden from most of the world.

Croatian wine isn’t hugely imported, so you have to make the most of it when you’re there.

Korčula is covered in flourishing vineyards, so it’s no surprise that it produces some spectacular wine.

Try Grk wine

Korčula, specifically the town of Lumbarda, is the only place in the world that grows the white Grk Bijeli wine variety.

Throughout Lumbarda, you’ll find a number of wineries and vineyards waiting for you to come and try some of their unique wine.

These include Vitis Winery , Popic Winery and Bire Winery .

If you’re looking to sample a variety of local wines, then Bokar Wine Bar , situated within Korčula Town, is a perfect spot.

If you’re visiting Korčula from Dubrovnik, then you can join this wine and culture tour of Korčula . It will show you the best of the island whilst getting to enjoy some delicious wine.

#6 Learn a new skill and try windsurfing

Due to its ideal geographical position, Korčula is a great place to learn to windsurf. If you already know how to do it, it’s easy to hire a board and jump straight in.

It’s possible to windsurf on almost any spot along the coast, but the best winds can be found in the Peljesac and Korčula channel.

In the afternoon especially, these waters will be graced with experts displaying their impressive range of skills. Even if you don’t want to give it a go, it’s still a fun sport to watch.

How to take windsurfing lessons in Korčula

There are a number of windsurfing schools offering board hire and also lessons. We would recommend taking lessons with Oreb Sailing .

They offer a variety of courses, starting from €60 per day. They are very experienced and will take you from novice to confident in no time!

If you can’t get enough of watersports, the neighbouring island of Brač , might be even more interesting to you. There’s a whole host of water activities to take part in there.

#7 Hire a kayak and explore the ocean

If windsurfing doesn’t sound like something you want to try, what about kayaking? 

The serene sea surrounding Korčula makes for a great place to go kayaking. Grab your paddle and head towards Korčula’s sea caves, islets and sheltered bays.

Hiring a kayak will allow you to access hidden gems that other visitors won’t get to see.

The easiest way to find a kayak to rent is to walk along the beach. There will likely be someone there offering kayaks.

To give you an idea of the price, 5 hours of kayak rental should cost around €25.

Go on a kayaking tour

If you don’t feel comfortable kayaking by yourself, you can also join a kayaking tour that takes you to all the best spots on the island. This sunset kayaking tour from Lumbarda does exactly that and includes a glass of wine at the end!

You can book this stunning sunset kayaking tour online for €62.

#8 Hike up to St Anthony’s chapel

Looking to get your legs moving? The hike up to St Anthony’s chapel is a way to do just that.

Just 2 km outside of Korčula Town, a 30-minute walk will bring you to a small chapel set upon a hill.

After 102 steps, your legs might be burning a little bit, but it’s completely worth it. The path is lined with trees, offering a refreshing break from the sun and some beautiful views.

Built in the 14th century, the small chapel is very quaint and rustic. With this activity, it’s really more about the journey than the destination.

#9 Visit Marco Polo’s house

You’ve probably heard the name before. Marco Polo was a Venetian merchant, explorer and writer who travelled through Asia in the 13th century.

The reason why you might know his name may have more to do with the game named after him, Marco Polo, than with what he actually did.

Either way, it’s believed that Marco Polo was born in Korčula. In a house that is still standing and has now become a place for visitors to see.

What is there to see inside?

There isn’t that much to see inside Marco Polo’s house , but the narrow staircase does lead to some incredible views of the sea.

We’ll be honest, it’s not the most exciting experience, but at least you’ll be able to say that you’ve been in the house of Marco Polo.

Also, entrance costs only €2.60.

#10 Go island hopping to Hvar

If you’re looking to explore some of Croatia’s other islands, but don’t have time to stay on them, then a day trip could be a great idea.

Hvar is a very popular island in Croatia, situated only a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Korčula .

You can spend your day on Hvar wandering around Hvar Old Town, relaxing on the beach, or visiting some historical sites such as Fortica Fortress and Tvrdalj Castle.

Once the sun sets, Hvar really comes alive. If you can stay the night on Hvar, we’d highly recommend doing so.

Need some inspiration for what to do? Check out our list of the  best activities in Hvar .

Rounding it up

Now you’ve picked the best things to do in Korcula, it’s time to start ticking off that bucket list. Not sure how to plan your trip? Our Korčula guide is here to help! You’ll find out how long to stay in Korcula, where to eat, how to get around and more. Happy planning! 

Best places to stay in Korcula

Important: Tourism in Croatia is very seasonal. Much of the available accommodation in Croatia is fully booked in the summer, but many sites are closed in the winter months. With July and August being the peak season, rates can rise 3 times as high as compared the low season or shoulder months. We recommend booking your accommodation at least 1 month in advance to lock in better rates.

Guest House Holiday - Budget Friendly

After a glimpse of this guesthouse, you won’t quite believe it’s a budget-friendly option. It’s an absolute bargain! The facilities and rooms make you feel like you are in a boutique hotel.

The rooms offer stunning views of the crystal clear water below. There’s no need for a TV (although there is one). The location and host easily make this place one of the best places to stay.

• The best views from your window
• Helpful and friendly host
• Perfect location
• Large and clean rooms

Check Available Rooms

Apartments Milion - Mid Range

Here you’ll be located in the pumping heart of the Old Town and only 40 meters from the beach. You can’t really get much better than this! Enjoy sitting on your balcony and watching the world go by below you.

The rooms are modern and clean, but with a homely feel where you can’t help but relax. The host will also help you to relax with his friendly demeanor and helpful tips.

• Great location
• Close to the beach
• Modern and clean rooms
• Washing machine in some rooms

Kanavelic Place - Treating Yourself

Kanavelic Place has a number of beautifully decorated apartments available, for up to 4 people. Here you’ll be located within the Old Town and close to a number of bars and restaurants.

The tranquil garden offers the perfect place to unwind, or simply enjoy the sea view or sunset from your window.

• Fully equipped kitchen
• Amazing views of the harbour
• Colourful and modern apartments

Join the Gecko Routes Community

Get the best travel tips delivered straight to your inbox.

Was this post helpful?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 5 / 5. Vote count: 1

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

As you found this post useful...

Follow us on social media!

We are sorry that this post didn't meet your expectations.

Your feedback is very valueable to us

What was missing in this post? (TIP: If you want us to reply to your feedback, you can leave your email in this text box.)

• Facebook Messenger

Kate is a writer, (ex)Management Consultant and avid traveller. She recently returned from a 2-year career break exploring the world and decided corporate life wasn’t for her. She’ll soon be testing life as a digital nomad. She’s visited over 40 countries and fell in love with Latin America in particular. Her travelling has inspired a passion for yoga, salsa, hiking and Spanish.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Explore more
• The Ultimate Korcula Travel...
• Korcula To Dubrovnik
• Korcula To Hvar
• Korcula To Split

To enhance your experience on our website, we utilize cookies. By browsing our site, you agree to our cookie use. For details, please read our privacy policy .

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Czech republik
• Travel tips

Complet Guide to Visit Korcula Island: an island of sea, activities and wine

One of the most popular Croatian islands is Korcula. It is located in central Dalmatia and is the sixth largest island in the Adriatic Sea. Korcula is considered one of the greenest islands, a visit to which is suitable for those who want a peaceful vacation, as well as those who want to spend their vacation more actively. Stroll through the streets of the old town of Korcula, explore the beautiful beaches and secret coves, visit the wineries and try the local wine and see the birthplace of Marco Polo. We share with you our “Complet Guide to Visit Korcula Island: an island of sea, activities and wine”.

The island of Korcula

Korcula is the sixth largest Croatian island, and with its beauty and charm it undoubtedly belongs to the very top of the popular Croatian islands. It is a southern Dalmatianisland located in the northern Adriatic. It lies south of Hvar, north of Lastovo and west of the Peljesac peninsula. The island is surrounded by crystal clear sea and 182 km of rugged coastline, where you will find beautiful beaches and hidden coves. Korcula invites everyone who adores natural beauty, enjoys a glass of good local wine, cultural events, loves sports activities, and at the same time likes to lie carefree on one of the beautiful beaches.

Korcula is a rather overgrown island with pine trees, so it was once called “Black Korcula”. With its excellent location, it offers many opportunities to explore. You can go to the island of Mljet, Lastovo, which is famous for its unspoiled nature and nature park, the Peljesac peninsula, romantic Dubrovnik, Split and much more.

History of Korcula

Korcula is an island with a rich and long history. The first evidence of the island’s population dates back to prehistory, and their culture and history can be seen wherever you turn. In this part of Dalmatia, the Greeks ruled all the way to the Ottomans, and several battles took place along the coast. You can see the latter as soon as you arrive on Korcula. The capital is “protected” by a mighty fortress and walls, on which well-visible cannons face the sea, which were once used to repel enemies.

There are also archaeological finds that indicate that some parts of the island were inhabited as early as the Stone Age. The Greeks moved to Korčula as early as the 6th century and settled in the western part of Vela Luka. The island was named Korkyra Melania, which means Black Korcula. There are also remnants of ancient Greece, Roman, Illyrian and Slavic culture. World traveler Marco Polo supposed to have his home on Korčula.

How to get to Korcula?

The island of Korcula is well connected with the surrounding ports. You have a choice of three regular ferry lines that connect the island with Pelješac, Dubrovnik and Split. The easiest way to travel is to come to Korčula with your car. From Dubrovnik and Split, you can also reach Korčula by bus or catamaran. If you are coming to Croatia by plane, the nearest airports are in Dubrovnik and Split.

There are two ferry lines to Korčula, namely Krilo, which is intended only for pedestrians, and Jadrolinija, which transports people and cars. The ferries run all day, the prices are quite reasonable, and the transportation is comfortable and punctual. Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the port box office.

• Split – Vela Luka (port in Split, travel time 2.15 h)
• Peljesac – Korcula (port on Orebic, travel time 20 min)
• Dubrovnik – Korcula (port in Dubrovnik, duration 2h, runs once a day at 4.30 pm)

As a Mediterranean destination, Korcula has a mild climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The sunlit island, which has 2,700 hours of sun a year, is also known as the island of the sun. Due to the summer mistral (wind), Korcula is also popular as a windsurfing destination. A visit is recommended from early June to mid-October. During this period, the sea has about 24 degrees and the average air temperature is around 27 degrees.

The picturesque old town of Korcula

There is no doubt that the old town of Korcula is the heart of the island. The city surrounded by walls, which is surrounded by eight beautifully preserved towers, is also called “mini Dubrovnik”. It is reminiscent of it with its historic architecture carved in stone on the small peninsula on which the city stands. The floor plan of the city is thoughtfully executed in the shape of a herringbone. The sloping position of the streets protects the city from the strong wind, and the correct position of the streets opens the way for a refreshing mistral.

The town consists of the Old Town on a small oval peninsula, a suburb directly below the old walls, and a new part extending along the coast east and west of the center. In the preserved city center, you can see, among others, St. Mark’s Cathedral, Our Lady’s Church, the city museum, the birthplace of Marco Polo, the city walls and Renaissance palaces. If architecture doesn’t tempt you, simply take a walk through the city, see one of the many cultural events, or simply enjoy a delicious dinner and local wine.

Visit the birthplace of Marco Polo

Korcula is, among other things, the most popular city because of the stories about the birthplace of Marco Polo. Although we can’t know for sure if the famous traveler was actually born on Korčula. On the lively streets of the town of Korcula, there is a house that is said to be the birthplace of a world traveler and explorer, supposely born in 1254. Part of the house has been turned into a museum and open to the public. You can find the house on Depolo Street, and for the entrance fee you will have to pay 75 HRK (10 €).

Meet local wine and winemakers

Wine production on Korčula is very specific in Dalmatia. Unlike other regions where red wines are produced, white wines are produced on Korčula. Korcula is known for its authentic white wine varieties Posip and Grk, which can be found in the vicinity of Lumbarda. If you are a wine lover, be sure to go on a wine tour to one of the 25 wineries on the island. Winemaking on the island is a thousand-year-old tradition, which is practiced by generations of locals, but grapes grown under the Korčula sun are also a well-known delicacy. Korcula wine on the island is not a joke and is something that the locals are extremely proud of.

Badija Island

The island of Badija is the largest of a total of 19 islands near the town of Korcula. It is a fairly quiet island where everyone can find their own cozy nook. The island is overgrown with macchia and pine forest, which provides a pleasant shade. On island you will find a Franciscan monastery built in the 15th century, after which the island got its name. If you don’t like lying on the beach, you can explore the island along a 4-kilometer-long circular path. Near the port is a restaurant, which is open during summer. You can reach the island in 20 minutes by boat from the city port or rent a kayak or SUP.

“Don’t forget Vela Luka” sings Oliver Dragojevič, in one of his most beautiful songs Vela Luka. Vela Luka is located on the west side of Korcula and is the largest town on the island. Due to its location, it is considered a very safe harbor from bad weather. One of the most famous sights in the vicinity of Vela Luka is Vela Špilja, where various artifacts (jewelry, ceramics, weapons) have been found after excavations. You can reach the cave along a 3-kilometer-long gravel road, and you can also reach it by foot, over the Pinski rat hill. The cave is open every day of the week (except Sunday), between 1 pm and 8 pm, for the entrance fee it is necessary to deduct 15 kn (2 €).

Cycling on Korcula

Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or just simply love exploring the surroundings in a different way, Korčula is perfect for cycling exploration. Korcula offers quite well-kept cycling routes, with beautiful vantage points. Lovers of road cycling, as well as those who prefer cycling on varied terrain, will be satisfied. If you do not have your own bike, you can rent it in several places, but you can also join organized cycling tours around the island. One of the nicely organized tours is cycling among the vineyards, with a tasting of excellent local wine in the wineries. If you are going to explore Korčula on your own, we suggest that you cycle to Lumbarda, where you will be accompanied by beautiful views of the sea and the roads that lead through the stunning vineyards.

Explore the coast of Korčula with a soup or kayak

Crystal clear sea and the rugged coast of Korcula, which invites you to explore it with a SUP or kayak. You can spend a fun afternoon exploring the coast and see the island from another perspective. You can rent a kayak from various providers, for about 40 euros / day.

Try out at windsurfing or kiting

Due to its ideal geographical location, windsurfing is an extremely popular sport on Korčula. The wind between the Pelješac peninsula and the island of Korčula is one of the windiest and most popular windsurfing and kiting destinations in Croatia. In the morning, the south wind blows, which is ideal for learning, and in the afternoon, the mistral wind blows through the Korčula canal and attracts all fans of these two sports. The Korčula mistral brings freshness and creates an excellent “playground” for windsurfers and kiters in the summer months. If you would like to try your hand at these sports, there are quite a few providers on the island who organize beginner courses (100 euros for an 8-hour course).

Korcula boasts crystal clear sea and as much as 182 km of coastline, where you will find beautiful beaches and hidden coves. You will not find many beaches on Korcula as we are used to on other islands, as the coast is steep and rocky. On the south side of the island, you will find quiet coves with small sandy beaches, while the northern part is more sandy and laid out.

Nevertheless, on Korčula you will find many beautiful beaches and secluded coves that call for swimming in crystal clear water. Some beaches and coves, we also visited:

• Vela Pržina – this is the most popular beach on the island, located on the south side of the island in the village of Lumbarda. Due to the fine sand and shallow sea, it is very popular with families with small children.
• Pinčena – we discovered it by chance, it is a small sandy and quiet beach, hidden in a quiet cove on the southern part of the island of Korcula (42.908568, 16.853110)
• Pupnatska Luka – for many one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, located not far from the town of Pupnat, 15 km from the town of Korcula. The beach is surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation, clear sea and freshwater springs
• Žitna beach – in our opinion the most beautiful beach on Korčula, hidden in a quiet cove. It is a pebble beach, near the town of Zavalatica
• Bilin Žal – another sandy beach located in Lumbarda. The beach is extremely popular among families due to its rather shallow entrance to the sea. There is also a tavern on the beach in a medieval building.
• Banje Beach – the town beach of Korčula, which is only a 5-minute walk from the old town. On the beach it is possible to rent an umbrella and deck chair, canoe, and in the immediate vicinity there are also several restaurants.

Where to stay on Korcula?

Where to stay on Korčula is primarily a question of what you want to do and what kind of vacation you want. The most wanted and popular places are the town of Korcula, Lumbarda and Vela Luka. There are also smaller places like Blato, Zavalatica, Žrnovska Banja, Žrnovo, etc., but theese are quite calm places. It is recommended that you take a look at the map of places before booking and decide where it suits you best.

we recommend that you find accommodation in the town of Korcula or somewhere in the vicinity of Lumbarda. Korcula is the most popular place to stay due to the beautiful old town, its diverse offer and the lively pulse of the city. The city has a choice of several hotels and many private accommodation.

A great choice is also Lumbarda, which has several restaurants, bars, beaches and beautiful surroundings and vineyards. Lumbarda is a great choice for families and those who want a quieter environment, but you are not too far from the center of events.

Vela Luka, in our opinion, is nothing special about wanting to spend your vacation there. Somehow we recommend the surroundings of Korcula for a stay, as it offers much more.

We stayed in Camp Vrbovica, which is located in a very quiet place Žrnovska Banja. We love camping and we love quieter places, so this camp was the right choice for us. Every evening we drove to town Korčula, 4 km away, where we enjoyed the hustle and bustle of the city, admired the old town and the huge yachts that were anchored on the pier.

You may also like

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Recent posts

destinations

travel ITINERARIES

Google pins, korcula, croatia: the ultimate island travel guide, croatia , europe , korcula.

Korcula is a summer dream come true. Often overshadowed by flashy neighbor Hvar , the island really holds its own as a must-visit destination in Croatia . It’s a very easy place to visit, conveniently located between Dubrovnik and Hvar . The ferry drops passengers along the city walls of Korcula Town where most visitors end up staying, eating, drinking and swimming. The picturesque meandering cobbled lanes, ancient houses, fortress towers and storied churches in this Old Town remind me so much of a storybook kingdom. Below is my complete travel guide to Korcula including the best beaches, viewpoints, photo locations, island day trips, restaurants, hotels, Airbnbs, Google map pins and travel tips, as well as a complete four-day itinerary. This post contains affiliate links.

Exploring the charming alleyways of Old Town.

QUICK FACTS

• CURRENCY  – In early 2023, Croatia ditched the Kuna and adopted the Euro as the national currency. Almost everywhere takes credit card, but always useful to have some cash on hand.
• RESERVATIONS – If you visit Korcula anytime from May to September, I suggest making restaurant reservations in advance. The island is small, as are the restaurants that quickly book up in summer and shoulder season.
• PEBBLE BEACHES – Similar to Dubrovnik and Hvar , most of the beaches on Korcula are rocky. I recommend packing a pair of water shoes to avoid painful (and ungraceful!) beach strolls.

This spectacular viewpoint is a short drive from town on Novi Puti Road.

Afternoon hangs along St. Mark’s Church in the heart of Old Town.

HOW MANY DAYS ON KORCULA?

FOUR DAYS . While Korcula Town itself only requires a day, there’s enough to see on and around the island to fill four full days. This will give you enough time to explore the main town, visit the best beaches, check out the viewpoints and day trip to a couple of offshore islands.

My perfect day – a book, a towel and a Croatian island.

WHEN TO VISIT KORCULA

• APRIL, MAY, SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER – Shoulder Season . All months are considered shoulder season, but May and September are the best combinations of warm weather, less people and more reasonable hotel selection / prices. April and October can be hit and miss with the weather.
• NOVEMBER-MARCH – Low Season . Avoid this time of the year. The weather is cold and the island closes down for the winter.
• JUNE-AUGUST – High Season . The highest probability of sunshine is this time of the year, but you’re also dealing with scorching temperatures, peak hotel prices and summer crowds.

The best view of the city.

St. Mark’s Church.

EXPLORE KORCULA

ISMAELLI STREET GALLERY WALL

This little street located just off of St. Mark’s Square is lined with picture frames, potted plants, little trinkets and a small stone bench for photos. Very charming.

KORCULA TOWN

Korcula Town is the beating heart of the island, home to boutique hotels, restaurants, bars, churches, tour agencies, water taxi stands and the main tourist port. It’s a mini version of Dubrovnik, a medieval maze of narrow cobbled lanes. My favorite times of the day to visit are early morning when it’s quiet and empty, and in the evening when town is abuzz with summer energy.

KORCULA VIEWPOINT

Two spectacular viewpoints that overlook Korcula Town are located on Novi Puti Road (aka Ul 45 on Google Maps). The panorama from up here is the best on the island offering up clear views of the walled city surrounded by the sea. There are two viewpoints – make sure to visit both. The second one is located a little further down the road (literally a 45-second walk). Roadside parking is available along Novi Puti Road, but it’s also possible to hike up from town if you don’t have a car.

PUPNATSKA LUKA BEACH

This is the prettiest beach on the island. Pupnatska Luka sits on the south coast of Korcula, a 30-minute drive from Korcula Town. The expansive pebble beach is a large protected cove where calm, clear water sparkles every shade of turquoise. There are sun beds and umbrellas available to rent, or lots of space to lay out a towel for free.

It’s a windy drive down to Pupnatska Luka from the main highway. If you start the drive down and find yourself on a dirt road, turn back to the main highway and drive further east. You’ll see a sign for Pupnatska Luka Beach at the start of a paved road. Both routes lead to the same place, but the paved road is much easier to drive (most GPS coordinates lead drivers to the dirt road).

ST. MARK’S SQUARE & CATHEDRAL

This bright, beautiful square sits in the heart of Korcula Town. The Gothic Renaissance church dates back to the 15th century, and it’s a beauty. Climb the narrow staircase to the top of the bell tower for spectacular views over the town and the surrounding sea.

SVETI NIKOLA

If you walk west of Korcula Town along the waterfront, you’ll find yourself at Sveti Nikola. The stretch of promenade is lined with narrow piers that are more popular with sunbathers than boats. People lay towels on the mini docks for specular views of the walled town while sunbathing, sleeping and swimming.

Another gorgeous beach located on the island’s south coast. It’s a lot smaller than Pupnatska Luka, but the rocky slabs for sunbathing are quite the vibe. Zitna’s narrow channel of intense turquoise water reminds me a lot of the calas on Mallorca .

Pupnatska Luka is my favorite beach on the island.

ISLAND DAY TRIPS

BADIJA ISLAND

The Škoji Archipelago is made up of 20 small islands, of which Badija is the largest. Water taxis drop visitors at a small pier that is a short walk to a beautiful 14th century Franciscan Monastery and a small restaurant (the only one on the island). The water surrounding Badija is calm and clear, but there isn’t much in terms of a proper beach. It’s actually the free roaming deer that make the island so memorable. They are everywhere – the church, the beach, the pier. A word of warning: the deer are beautiful, but they are looking for food, and can be aggressive.

Badija Island is part of an island hopping ticket the water taxis offer – tickets can be purchased from the water taxi kiosks located along the waterfront outside of Korcula Town.

PROIZD ISLAND

This is one of Croatia’s hidden gems. Proizd sits off of Korcula’s western tip, accessible via a 35-minute ferry from Vela Luka (there is a set timetable for departures and returns). The uninhibited island is surrounded by some of the most stunning water I’ve seen in Europe – just intensely clear, turquoise and sparkly. There are four main beaches on the island – Veli Bili Bok, Srednji Bili Bok, Donj Bili Bok and Batalo (all walking distance to each other).

VRNIK ISLAND

Vrnik is the prettiest island in the Škoji Archipelago. There are historic quarries scattered around the island, once home to craftsmen and and stonemasons. It’s the sparkling shallow waters though that visitors flock to, and one of the prettiest beaches is just steps away from the water taxi pier.

Vrnik Island is part of an island hopping ticket the water taxis offer – tickets can be purchased from the water taxi kiosks located along the waterfront outside of Korcula Town.

My 200+ Google Map pins for Croatia are available here .

CROATIA GOOGLE MAP PINS

I’ve been traveling to Croatia for more than a decade, and I’m sharing more than 200 of my Google map pins from destinations across the country with you guys here . The map is savable to your Google account, and easy to use for trip planning and navigation once on the ground in Croatia.

Map pins include:

• must-visit destinations, churches, historic sites, viewpoints
• hotels, villas, Airbnbs
• bars, cafes, cliff bars, gelato shops, restaurants
• beaches, cliff jumping locations, off shore islands, secret coves, sea caves
• boat rental companies, ferry ports
• photo from several of these locations

Destinations included in the map: Cavtat, Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, Krka, Plitvice Lakes, Rovinj + Greater Istria, Split and Vis.

Lesic Dimitri Palace is a former Bishop’s palace that sits on the cutest street in Old Town. This is best place to stay on the island if you can snag one of their residences.

STAY ON KORCULA

APARTMENT MARINA

Apartment Marina is located along the waterfront facing spectacular views of Korcula Town. It’s a short stroll to reach the sights, restaurants, cafes and shops. The renovated apartment is modern and clean, making for a very comfortable stay.

APARTMENT NONA KATA

A small apartment located in Korcula Town close to the main square – everything is within walking distance. The exposed stone walls bring a bit of character to the space that is otherwise very simple. Apartment Nona Kata is clean and up to date, but nothing fancy. A nice budget option for Korcula.

LESIC DIMITRI PALACE

There are very few luxury options on Korcula, so best to book Lesic Dimitri Palace well in advance. It’s the loveliest property on the island, located on the most charming street in Old Town. Formerly an 17th century Bishop’s Palace, this Relais & Chateaux property has been converted into six exquisite rooms, suites and residence villas. All the spaces are beautifully ornate, but the private wood carved balcony of the Venice residence is especially lovely.

LUXURY LOFT IN ISMAELLI PALACE

Possibly the most special lodging location in Korcula. This beautiful Luxury Loft sits in a 600-year-old Ismaelli Palace, right off of St. Mark’s Square. The space is roomy and modern with historic design cues that give the two-bedroom apartment loads of character. And the central balcony that surrounds an airy medieval courtyard is absolutely breathtaking.

MAGICAL OASIS

Magical Oasis is a lovely one-bedroom apartment located in Korcula Town behind Kanavelic Tower. The space is small, but clean and cozy with stone walls and wood beam ceilings.

TARA’S LODGE

Modern boutique hotel located on the water. The rooms at Tara’s Lodge are a clean, simple and minimalist chic. It’s the beachfront location that is the real selling point. The water is calm and beautiful with a small stretch of beach outfitted with bean bag loungers and umbrellas.

Konoba Mate is hands down the best restaurant on Korcula.

Pizza night at De Canvellis.

If Konoba Mate is the best restaurant on the island, then Marco Polo is a close second.

EAT & DRINK ON KORCULA

AROMA GELATO

Aroma scoops delicious homemade gelato, offering more than two dozen flavors including orange with ginger, blueberry, chocolate with orange, raspberry, rum raisin, tiramisu, peppermint chocolate and more.

DE CANAVELLIS

This is the tastiest option for fresh, thin crust pizza on Korcula, and the tower ambiance in the evening is pretty fabulous.

KONOBA MATE

Konoba Mate is my favorite restaurant on the island. This small family-run konoba is located in Pupnat Village. They serve up a variety of fresh handmade pastas, homemade sauces and sides that are absolutely delicious. Favorites were the homegrown tomato sauce, almost pesto with homegrown cherry tomatoes and the fresh bread. The restaurant is a 15-minute drive from Korcula Town in what feels like the countryside, but a reservation is still a must for dinner in high season.

LD RESTAURANT

LD Restaurant has a Michelin star. It’s part of the Lesic Dimitri Palace where the tables sit overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The tasting menu changes but can include nigiri, scallops with black truffle, wagyu, prawn gyoza, beef tenderloin and lemon ice cream amaretto.

MASSIMO COCKTAIL BAR

The rooftop of a medieval tower has been converted into a cocktail bar, and it’s one of the most popular summer spots on the island. The views and ambiance from up here are amazing, especially at sunset.

Marco Polo is the best restaurant in Korcula Town. It sits on a narrow cobbled alleyway where the handful of tables are occupied 24/7 during the summer. My favorite item on the menu is the grilled sea bream and potatoes w/chard. Completely delicious. Reservations are a must.

MLINAR BAKERY

Yup, it’s Croatia’s chain bakery. But it’s still delicious, and my favorite quick breakfast option in Korcula Town. This Mlinar location sits just up the road from city walls.

When the sun is out, Zitna is a vibe.

Views over Zitna Bay on the hike down from the parking lot.

GET AROUND KORCULA

If you’re based in Korcula Town, most restaurants, bars, shops and water taxis are within walking distance. If you’re interested in exploring more of the island (I highly recommend it!), just rent a car or scooter for the days you plan to explore. Rental agencies are located outside the city walls below the Town Gate.

Twinning with all the shutters and doorways around Old Town.

GET TO KORCULA

Korcula is a tiny island that is only reachable by boat – no airports. Most tourists arrive by ferry which connects Korcula to Dubrovnik , Hvar , Mljet and a few more destinations. I use Ferryhopper to look up ferry schedules and book all my ferry tickets – very reliable and easy to use.

A stroll along the edge of Old Town has all the feels of a medieval kingdom.

Badija Island and its free roaming deer are a short boat ride away from Korcula.

Hi, great photos. What filter(s) do you apply to all of your photos?

Hi, I edit in Adobe Lightroom!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

©2023 bucketlist bums | all rights reserved | Privacy | terms | site credit karima creative 

Shop google pins, shop my closet, shop travel itineraries.

shop my travel ITINERARIES

Shop my favorites, shop my travel pins.

The sixth-largest island in Croatia, Korcula is 20 miles long and rather narrow, between 4 and 5 miles wide on average. This island is known for its dense forest and the ancient Greeks called the island Black Korcula (Kerkyra melaina) for this reason.

The main resorts are Korcula Town (people call it “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval squares, churches, palaces and houses, looking not too dissimilar to the real Dubrovnik ), Vela Luka and Lumbarda. There are also smaller towns and villages dotted around the island for those looking for a more secluded holiday.

Korcula is one of Croatia’s most treasured islands although, perhaps somewhat surprisingly, not quite as popular as some of its slightly more northern counterparts, such as Brac and Hvar . This may be because the island is a little further away to get to (both from Split or Dubrovnik ) and some of the most convenient ferry services to the island only run in summer.

On the one hand, of course, this is somewhat of a shame but on the other, this means you have fewer crowds and can enjoy the island more!

See below for our tips on reaching the island, its history, what to see and where to stay.

• History Read up on a brief history of the island
• Getting to Korcula How to reach the island
• Sightseeing What to see and do

Events on Korcula

Generally, events on the island centre around the summer months – peak season – when there are more people around to enjoy all the festivities. Each main town is likely to have some kind of “summer evenings” mini-festival, with assorted events – art exhibitions, folklore evenings, singing, dancing, music, fishermen’s evenings – taking place from about mid-June to September, or thereabouts. Check the websites of the tourist offices listed below for an up-to-date schedule of events.

One of the main events to look out for is performances of the famous Moreska dance. These normally take place twice a week in the town during summer – check locally for more details.

Eating & Drinking on Korcula

The LD Restaurant – part of the 5-star Lesic Dimitri Palace Hotel – is a Michelin-starred restaurant with an absolutely gorgeous setting that presents Dalmatian cuisine with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients. The restaurant was awarded Croatia’s Best Restaurant at the 2022 World Culinary Awards .

Ignis is a tapas-bar-inspired restaurant that showcases simple yet beautifully presented cooking using the freshest, sustainable ingredients – these are tapas dishes with a modern twist! They open for breakfast and dinner, and also serve some great cocktails too!

Tourist Offices on Korcula

Korcula Town Tourist Office at Trg 19. travnja 1921. br.40, 20260 Korčula, Tel: 020 715 701 Website: www.visitkorcula.net Email: [email protected]

Vela Luka Tourist Office at Ulica 3 br. 19, 20270 Vela Luka, Tel: 020 813 619 Website: www.tzvelaluka.hr Email: [email protected]

Lumbarda Tourist Office Tel: 020 712 005 Website: www.tz-lumbarda.hr Email: [email protected]

More information on Korcula

• Korcula.net
• KorculaInfo.com
• Korcula Explorer offers high-standard private apartments and rooms to rent, excursions and comprehensive advice for your perfect holiday on the beautiful Island of Korcula.
• Camino Korcula is part of the Camino Croatia route, connected to the Camino de Santiago historic pilgrimage routes across Europe. The religious walking routes are a pleasant and peaceful way of getting to know Korcula on foot.

More on Visit Croatia

About Visit Croatia

Contact Visit Croatia

Buy us a coffee!

Cookie Policy

Privacy Policy

Updated daily

New & Updated on Visit Croatia

Stari Grad Obonjan Bol Porec Two Days in Zagreb Slano How to do Croatia on a Budget Two Days in Split Nin Campsites in Croatia Shopping in Zagreb City Break in Croatia Two Days in Pula Family Holidays in Croatia 15 Things You May Not Know About Croatia Two Days in Zadar Koprivnica

Useful information on Croatia

Money in Croatia Visa Requirements for Croatia Buses in Croatia Ferries in Croatia Top Ten Destinations in Croatia Map of Croatia About Croatia

Visiting Korčula, Croatia: Travel Guide to Croatia’s Coolest Island

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Are you looking to visit Korčula Croatia — the most fabulous island of Dalmatia? Well, you’ve come to the right place — this Korčula travel guide is designed to give you all the information you need to plan the trip of a lifetime.

I’ve explored Croatia extensively over the past decade, and I think Korčula (pronounced KOR-chu-la ) is one of the best places in the country.

Planning your trip to Korčula last minute?

Korčula ples is a popular destination, so be sure to book hotels and tours as far in advance as possible!

🏔️ Top Experiences and Tours in Korčula :

• Explore Old Town (One of my favorite things!)
• Go island hopping (Explore at your own pace)
• Go kayaking (Great way to see sunset!)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in Korčula :

• Apartments by the Sea Brna (Luxury option in Smokvica)
• Apartment Manna (I LOVED this place!!)
• Hotel Lipa (Great budget option)

Like most of Croatia, Korčula is brimming with natural beauty. But Korčula is also home to a spectacular wine culture, a stunning old city, a collection of hidden beaches, endless olive groves, and some unique dining specialties. Korčula is well known, but it’s not as busy or overcrowded as other Croatian islands.

Most travelers come to Korčula for only a few days — or worse, just a day trip from Dubrovnik. But there are so many interesting things to do in Korčula that you’d be better off staying several days, or even a full week! I stayed six days on my most recent visit, and I could have stayed for longer.

It’s easy to fall in love with Korčula, Croatia, and my goal is to help YOU fall in love with Korčula as well. Sit back, grab a beverage, and get ready to dive into this incredible island in the Adriatic Sea.

This post was most recently updated in January 2023.

Table of Contents

Why travel to Korčula Croatia?

There are so many beautiful islands to visit in Croatia. Why should you choose Korčula over the others?

Most locals have an easy answer for that: WINE. Korčula has a reputation for being the wine island, and it’s home to some varietals you can’t find anywhere else, like Grk and Pošip. While you can find local wine on every Croatian island, Korčula’s wines are head and shoulders above the rest.

I’ve spent a lot of time researching the five major islands between Split and Dubrovnik — Brač, Hvar , Vis , Korčula, and Mljet — and my two favorite islands are Korčula and Vis.

While Vis has the best vibe for chilling out , and I think it’s best suited for people who have been to Croatia before, Korčula is best for first-time visitors to Croatia or people who want to do lots of interesting things. Korčula has the best things to do, the best cultural background, and the best food and wine experiences of all the Croatian islands.

Whether you want to go bike riding through vineyards that edge along the sea or take in a fearsome Moreška dance performance, whether you want to go wine tasting up and down the island or discover hidden beaches, whether you want to have a Michelin-starred meal or country food in a traditional konoba, Korčula has something for you!

Korčula, to me, feels like a very adult-oriented island. That’s not to say it’s not family-friendly — EVERYWHERE in Croatia is family-friendly — but Korčula’s best treasures are very much for grown-ups.

Stay out late at a tapas bar. Have cocktails in the tower of a medieval city wall. Drive down a spine-tinglingly steep road to a clear, perfect beach. This is YOUR island.

Korčula Island FAQ

I recommend spending at least three days in Korčula because there’s so much to do here ! Spending a week would be fantastic, especially if you add on day trips to nearby Mljet or Pelješac.

In my opinion, Korčula is far better than Hvar . Korčula is more beautiful than Hvar, it’s cheaper, it doesn’t have Hvar’s party crowd, and it has a culinary scene with unique wines.

I recommend staying in Korčula Town to be close to everything, or Lumbarda if you want a seaside town surrounded by vineyards just a short water taxi ride away. I highly recommend Hotel Korčula de la Ville .

The only way to get to Korčula is by ferry . If you have a car, you can take a direct ferry from Split or Orebić on the Pelješac peninsula; there are passenger-only ferries from Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Mljet.

Best Things to Do in Korčula Croatia

So what are the best things to do in Korčula island? You could spend your days being lazy, sitting on beaches and trying the special wines. You could be more active, biking around the towns and learning to windsurf.

I recommend doing some wine-oriented and history-oriented activities in Korčula, as well as taking in a few gorgeous beaches.

Here are my picks for the best things to do in Korčula.

Go on a Biking and Wine Tour

My absolute favorite thing to do in Korčula was taking a bike and wine tour down to Lumbarda! This is a tour organized by the Korčula Tourism Office offering the best of both worlds — physical activity, stunning scenery, and deliciousness. Our guide Lea met us at our hotel with perfectly sized e-bikes and led us on a tour out of Korčula Town down to the village of Lumbarda.

Wine regions are always beautiful — but Lumbarda is on another level. You may have biked through gorgeous vineyards in Tuscany or Sonoma, but have you ever biked through vineyards as bright turquoise ocean waves crash nearby? It was heart-wrenchingly beautiful. I don’t even have the most beautiful shots because I was biking the whole time!

We stopped at Bire Winery and were introduced to Grk wine (pronounced gurk ) — a fascinating wine varietal that only grows in Lumbarda. Grk has a long and storied history, dating back to the 5th century AD, when the Ancient Greeks colonized the Adriatic. The word Grk means either Greek or bitter in Croatian. And it only has female flowers — it must be cross-pollinated with male flowers, usually Plavac Mali.

Grk is a full-bodied white wine — the kind that stands strong on its own, announcing its presence. We enjoyed tasting several of Bire’s wines and trying some Dalmatian meats, cheeses, and fish dishes perfectly tailored to the wines.

After that, it was back on the wines, back exploring Lumbarda, stopping at scenic and interesting points all the way back to Korčula Town. I couldn’t get enough of it!

You can book a wine and biking tour through Korčula Explorer . Say hi to Lea for me!

Explore Korčula Old Town

Korčula has a small but mighty old town, a little Dubrovnik, stacked up in layers like a wedding cake. It’s small and easy to cover on foot (albeit filled with tons of stairs), and it’s edged with a beautiful pathway along the water, lined with nice restaurants and cafes.

This might be heresy, but I think I like Korčula’s old town more than Dubrovnik’s.

Korčula is the rumored birthplace of Marco Polo — and the people of Korčula lean into this legend, while noting that technically there are no historic records, so we don’t even know if he came from Korčula, Venice, or somewhere else entirely.

While touring the town, be sure to check out the bell tower — the highest point in the old town — visit St. Mark’s Cathedral, and get lost in the narrow streets.

You can book a 90-minute historic walking tour here.

Have Unique Tapas at Lole Wine Bar

If you’ve spent any amount of time along Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, you know that menus tend to offer the same appetizers over and over: marinated anchovies, octopus salad, pršut, cheese, marinated shrimp. (As I write this, I’ve been on the Dalmatian Coast for more than a month. I can recite that menu by heart.)

However, Lole Wine Bar turns Croatian appetizers on their head, serving them in new and rearranged ways, always rotating, and served alongside an interesting selection of local wines. This is where you’ll get some of the most creative cuisine in the Dalmatian islands.

My suggestion? Come here for a NIGHT. Start with the lighter wines and work your way down! End with the nespole (medlar) liqueur, tasting like marzipan.

Lole gets busy at night, and I highly recommend making a reservation for one night of your stay in Korčula.

Explore the Islands by Water Taxi

While Korčula itself is an island, there are a few tiny islands off the coast to visit: most notably, Badija and Vrnik. While there are tours to the islands, it’s cheaper and more flexible to buy a hop-on hop-off water taxi ticket and spend the day exploring at your own pace.

First up is Badija , an uninhabited island home to a monastery. You can visit the monastery and walk the path around the island; it takes about an hour and 45 minutes. If you want to swim, there are some nice hidden beaches on the northern side of the island and some more public ones on the eastern side. There is a snack bar here but it’s otherwise uninhabited.

Next up is Vrnik , significantly smaller than Badija and only inhabited by a few long-term residents. Vrnik feels like an isolated village among the more developed parts of Korčula. If you’re up for a swim, there’s a nice beach right by where the ferry drops you off.

Vrnik Arts Club , a B&B and restaurant, is a cool place to stop for lunch — though a bit pricey. It’s the kind of place where you ask for a menu and the waiter says, “Well, we’ve got some nice octopus today. How about we make that into a nice salad for you, with some arugula and capers, and bring you some bread — how about that?”

I agreed. It was lovely.

Finally, the boat takes you to Lumbarda on the mainland — a great place to go swimming, drink wine, or just relax and enjoy the small town atmosphere. Lumbarda is one of the most beautiful parts of Korčula and I recommend taking a few photos at the very least. They even have one of Croatia’s rare sandy beaches!

You can buy a hop-on hop-off water taxi ticket here , or wait and buy one in person at Korčula Town’s water taxi station, right at the base of the Old Town. I recommend buying ahead of time if you’re visiting in the summer months.

Sometimes the water taxis don’t show up exactly on time — I recommend getting there to wait five to ten minutes early, just in case.

See a Moreška Sword Dance

If you’ve heard that Croatia has unique sword dances, THE place to see them is Korčula! This sword dance is called a Moreška and it tells the story of two kings fighting it out with their armies for the love of a kidnapped princess. The show is in Croatian but there are English translations available.

This is a fun and interesting show, so I recommend timing your visit to Korčula so you can get to see it. (I also recommend sitting NOT QUITE in the front row as there are a lot of flying swords!)

Moreška shows take place on Mondays and Thursdays at 9:00 PM in July and August, and on Thursdays at 9:00 PM in June and September. Performances are held in the open-air Ljetno Kino, right in the old town. You can buy tickets here in advance or in person at the theater.

Try Traditional Honey at OPG Komparak

One of the stops on our bike tour was at OPG Komparak , a shop serving local honeys, olive oils, and other specialties like jams and preserves. This is a great shop and a nice place to stop to try some unique flavors, including sage, mandarin, and forest honey.

They offer tastings for 5 EUR ($5 USD).

Amusingly, we saw our beekeeper dance in the Moreška show a few hours after meeting him! You’ll soon learn that Korčula is essentially a small town, everyone knows everyone, and everyone has multiple side hustles in tourism.

Enjoy all the Grk wine

Seriously, you should try as much Grk as you can while in Korčula. Sure, because it’s a unique and delicious wine and only grows in Lumbarda, an emblem of Korčula island itself.

But also because as soon as you leave Korčula, Grk is hard to find — and when restaurants do have it, it’s often the most expensive Croatian wine on the menu. Eek!

Enjoy the Grk for cheap while you can! And if you’re a huge fan, pick up a bottle or two (a case, maybe?) to take home.

Visit Konoba Mate for a Traditional Meal

Korčula has a lot of culinary traditions, and one of the best ways to experience that is to visit a traditional konoba, a simple tavern-like restaurant . I enjoyed visiting Konoba Mate in the village of Pupnat, which is known for incorporating Korčula’s delicious plants and produce into different country-style dishes.

This is a great place to try traditional hand-rolled pasta. We loved it so much we tried three kinds!

Some of the standout dishes were the handmade pasta with almond pesto and cherry tomatoes, the braised veal cheeks with roasted garlic, and the laurel leaf mouse for dessert. I hadn’t even heard of laurel leaf before eating here!

Explore Small Town Wineries

If you limit yourself to Lumbarda’s (admittedly superb) wineries, you’ll be missing out on a lot of great wineries in Korčula! Head inland for more.

Pošip tends to be the star varietal of the inland wineries, though they make a variety of whites, reds, roses, and even sweet wines.

I particularly recommend the town of Smokvica, home to Toreta Winery and Merga Victa Winery , both of which I enjoyed, as well as Winery Milina , Grošić Winery , and Didovinka Winery .

Most of the time you can taste for free.

Have a Michelin-Starred Meal at LD Restaurant

If you’re looking for high-end, cutting-edge cuisine, served right in the Old Town with beautiful views over the Adriatic, LD Restaurant is worth your time. LD has a Michelin star — the only one on Korčula — and this is one of the best restaurants on the island.

LD focuses on local, seasonal Dalmatian ingredients interpreted in new ways — and plated BEAUTIFULLY. That above dish is a repurposed vitello tonnato (a veal and tuna dish from Piemonte, Italy), with egg yolk and chimichurri.

Another standout was sea bass in yellow curry with cauliflower and quinoa, and we loved ending with an affogato (espresso with vanilla ice cream — this one with almond and lemon zest) for dessert.

The food, the location — swoon-worthy. Pair your food with some Grk, of course.

Learn to Windsurf — or Go Kayaking

Korčula is famously windy — especially its eastern end. These are perfect conditions for learning to windsurf! You can find courses in Korčula Town as well as Badija Island. Schools like Oreb Sailing and Korčula Sailing Extreme offer windsurfing lessons as well as sailing, kayaking, and SUP excursions.

(If you get bitten by the windsurfing bug, I recommend checking the town of Viganj, just across the water from Korčula on the Pelješac mainland. There is a huge windsurfing community there!)

Would you rather go for a kayak? You can take sunset kayak tours in Lumbarda.

Have Cocktails in a Tower at Massimo Cocktail Bar

Visiting Massimo Cocktail Bar was one of the highlights of my first trip to Korčula in 2012, and I knew I had to go back. This cocktail bar is in an insane location — on top of a tower in the city walls! The views over Pelješac are sensational, and it’s one of the most unique bar settings I’ve visited.

A few important things to know: you must climb a somewhat scary ladder to get to the top. You probably want to avoid wearing a skirt.

Also, while it’s a cocktail bar, don’t expect craft cocktails. You’re best off sticking to the basics. And it’s a wind tunnel up there. (See the girls’ hair in the photo above?)

Overall, I think Massimo is a great place for one or two drinks and some selfies; I don’t think you’d want to spend a whole evening up there.

Korčula Beaches

A quick tip: while there are lots of small beaches around Korčula Town and Lumbarda, the best Korčula beaches are in the bays in the south of the island. This is something that Korčula locals told me over and over.

These beaches require a bit of a trek by car, and sometimes it’s a bit of a hairy journey down steep, narrow and/or unpaved roads.

Are roads like that not your thing? That’s fine! Enjoy one of the easier-to-get-to beaches close to where you are. You can even go swimming right off the Old Town of Korčula, pictured above.

Here are two of my favorite Korčula beaches:

Pupnatska Luka Beach

Pupnatska Luka is one of the bay beaches on the southern coast, south of the town of Pupnat. This is one of the most lauded beaches in Korčula and once you get here, you’ll find chairs and umbrellas for rent and a few beach bars. There’s even a bar outpost of Konoba Mate!

I enjoyed the vibe of this beach — probably my favorite beach in Korčula. The beach is decently wide and you’ll probably have an easy time finding a spot. The crystal clear waters are perfect for swimming.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Google Maps sent us here a very scary way, down a rocky unpaved road that felt like it was going to tear up the bottom of the car! But you can avoid this!

Take a look at Pupnatska Luka on Google Maps and zoom in. You’ll see one road leading out to the left (west) and one road leading out to the right (east). The road on the right, the eastern road, is the one you want. It’s paved and fine (though quite narrow at some stretches!).

Bačva Beach

Bačva Beach requires a similar journey to Pupnatska Luka’s — a curvy, switchbacky, zig-zaggy paved road leading down to the coast. But this one is smaller, more peaceful, and dare I say even more special than its neighbor.

You’ll park at a steep angle in the makeshift parking lot down by the beach, then walk down a long path through pine forest. You know you’re in the right place when you see a small restaurant and a small, narrow beach with calm, clear water.

Lots of families choose Bačva because the water is nice and calm. It’s more beautiful, but it being smaller means that there isn’t as much space to spread out.

Still, a wonderful beach on Korčula!

Take in the View in Zavalatica

We ended up in the town of Zavalatica on a whim while exploring the island — but it turned into my favorite view of the trip! Zavalatica is a town on the southern coast of Korcula. As we drove in, we were struck speechless by this view.

Want to enjoy a bite with this view? We had lunch at Konoba Albert and enjoyed some nice fried calamari while taking in the blue-green ocean.

As you can see below, there are ladders leading into the sea from the rocky beaches. Nice spot for a swim!

Have a Coffee in Vela Luka

Vela Luka is Korčula’s largest city, and this is where the larger car ferries from Split dock in Korčula. It’s located on the west coast of the island, about a 40-minute drive from Korčula Town.

Vela Luka isn’t the most exciting place on the island, but I thought it was worth getting a coffee and taking a stroll around the harbor before moving on.

Have limited time in Korčula? You can skip this without regret.

Day Trips from Korčula

Is there any reason to leave Korčula while you’re there? Not really. There is enough on Korčula to keep you entertained for quite some time.

But if you’re spending a week or so based in Korčula, and it’s the only island getaway during your time in Croatia, you may want to see a bit more of the surrounding area.

There are two places I recommend visiting as a day trip from Korčula: Mljet and Pelješac.

Mljet is a gorgeous nature island and one of my favorite spots in Croatia. The western side of the island is home to Mljet National Park, filled with saltwater lakes and lush forests.

And because Mljet lies just east of Korčula, and the national park is on the western side of Mljet, it’s quicker and easier to do as a day trip from Korčula than a day trip from Dubrovnik.

On Mljet I recommend swimming in the saltwater lakes, visiting St. Mary’s Island in the lake, and exploring the small villages in the park.

If you have the stamina to hike on a hot day, I recommend climbing to Montokuc, one of the highest points on the island with spectacular views (including the photo above). It’s about a 45-minute hike from the main parking lot in the national park.

You can do this as an independent day trip by taking the ferry from Korčula town in the morning to the town of Pomena, which is right on the edge of the national park. It’s a 30-minute journey. The ferry returns in the afternoon.

Pelješac ( PELL-ee-yeh-shatz , or said quicker, simply PELL-eh-shatz ), is the peninsula on the mainland just across from Korčula town. I spent a week in Pelješac and really enjoyed it — it’s a casual and unpretentious part of Dalmatia that not a lot of Americans visit, but Europeans know and love.

If you’re a wine fan in the least — and especially a red wine fan — you MUST visit Pelješac. They are home to the renowned Plavac Mali varietal of red wine, which also makes Postup and Dingač.

Dingač is a truly special deep red wine. If you like Zinfandel or Primitivo, you will LOVE Dingač. My favorite Dingač is from Bartulović Winery , a small family-run winery in the tiny town of Prizdrina.

Beyond wine, Pelješac is home to the town of Ston, home to world-famous oysters and the longest stone wall in Europe (!), Viganj, a chilled out windsurfing town; and Divna Beach near Trpanj, quite possibly the most beautiful beach in Croatia. The dramatic roads lead you to stunning views in every direction.

Alternatively, if you’re driving from Korčula to Dubrovnik, I recommend leaving early and spending the day exploring Pelješac before driving to Dubrovnik. That is a GREAT way to spent a driving day!

You can independently visit Pelješac from Korčula. The ferry from Korčula Town to Orebić takes just 20 minutes. I recommend having a car to explore the peninsula and wineries (though of course, driving limits your ability to drink).

If you want to visit Pelješac independently from Korčula but don’t want to drive, I recommend taking the ferry to Orebić, then walking to Korta Katarina winery , about a 25-minute walk from the ferry port. They do a wonderful gourmet tasting and the setting is gorgeous.

Where to Stay in Korčula

Korčula town.

Where’s the best place to stay in Korčula? Most travelers stay in Korčula Town, which is where you’ll find most of the activities on the island — but it’s not your only option.

If you’re only visiting Korčula for a few days, I recommend basing in Korčula Town, or possibly Lumbarda if you want a more relaxed experience. If you’ve got more time than that, consider spending a few nights elsewhere on the island to have a more well-rounded island escape.

Lumbarda and the rural countryside are solid options in addition to Korčula Town. I would skip Vela Luka; while it’s Korčula’s largest city, it’s not nearly as charming as other spots around the island.

Top-Rated Hotels in Korčula Town:

• Luxury: Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel (I stayed here back when it was Hotel Korčula de la Ville and loved the building and location!)
• Mid-Range: M & J Central Suites
• Budget: Guesthouse Franica

Find deals on hotels and apartments in Korčula Town here.

An alternative to staying in Korčula Town is Lumbarda — a small town surrounded by the sea on three sides, filled with criss-crossing vineyards. Lumbarda is a short distance from Korčula Town — a 10-minute drive or short water taxi.

Lumbarda is where locals go when they want to get away. It’s home to beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants (that are cheaper than the ones in Korčula’s old town), and several top-notch wineries. It’s not completely unknown, but it doesn’t get nearly as many tourist crowds as Korčula Town.

If you’d like to spend time in a quieter, more relaxing town and have lots of beach time, Lumbarda is a great choice.

Top-Rated Hotels in Lumbarda:

• Luxury: Eco Aparthotel: The Dreamer’s Club
• Mid-Range: Adrian’s Guesthouse & Winery
• Budget: Guesthouse Bebic

Find deals on hotels and apartments in Lumbarda here.

Countryside

Another option is to stay somewhere in the countryside, which can show you the other side of island life (not to mention save money). We stayed in the town of Žrnovo, which is only five minutes outside Korčula Town, but felt a world away. We chose Žrnovo because it’s home to the Pinjac Brewery and we wanted to enjoy the beers without worrying about driving.

We stayed two nights at Apartment Manna , a comfortable, modern one-bedroom in Žrnovo, and highly recommend it. Warning: if you leave the door open, Bobby the ginger cat will come in and make himself at home!

Two other nice countryside towns I’d recommend staying in are Smokvica and Pupnat .

Top-Rated Hotels in the Korčula Countryside:

• Luxury: Apartments by the Sea Brna in Smokvica
• Mid-Range: Apartment Manna in Žrnovo (I LOVED this place!)
• Budget: Hotel Lipa in Blato

How to Get to Korčula Croatia

Korčula is an island without an airport, so the best way to get here is by ferry. But not all ferries go to Korčula Town, and not all ferries take cars. You can see the full list of ferry times and schedules here.

You’ll want to fly into Split or Dubrovnik. Split tends to have more flight options. Check flights on Skyscanner to find the lowest prices.

How to Get to Korčula from Split

From Split, you can take the car ferry to Vela Luka on the western end of Korčula (3.5 hours).

From Vela Luka, you can drive to Korčula Town (40 minutes). There are also buses that can take you to Korčula town.

Keep in mind that at Split’s ferry port, this boat will be labeled “Vela Luka” and not “Korčula.”

You can check the ferry schedule here.

How to Get to Korčula from Dubrovnik

There is a passenger-only catamaran that goes from Dubrovnik to Korčula Town (two hours).

If you want to have your car, there’s a better way: drive from Dubrovnik to Orebić on the Peljesač peninsula (two hours, and what a gorgeous drive!) and take the car ferry from there (20 minutes).

How to Get Around Korčula

If you plan to stick to Korčula Town, Lumbarda, and the immediate vicinity, you don’t need a car. But if you plan on exploring the island in depth, visiting one of the small cove beaches, or getting into the countryside, I highly recommend renting a car.

If you’re planning to explore beyond Korčula Town and Lumbarda, having a set of wheels is essential. If you arrive without a car, you can rent one — or, alternatively, rent a scooter.

There is limited public transportation system with buses that circle the island. See schedules on the Arriva website .

Finally, there’s the hop-on-hop-off water taxi , which goes from Korčula Town to Badija to Vrnik to Lumbarda and back in reverse, which is a scenic way of getting to Lumbarda.

Best Time to Visit Korčula

The best time to visit Korčula is September — plain and simple. That is what I recommend for the best time to visit Croatia as well.

September is the sweet spot — you get summer weather, but the crowds have died down and the kids are back in school. Plus, the water is SO warm in September — you definitely don’t get that same effect in May! You could even try early October for similar results.

Korčula’s peak season is during the summer months, with peak crowds and prices in July and August. Many activities in Korčula are only running during the summer months, so if you’re looking to enjoy the activities I wrote about in this post, June through September is your best bet.

Korcula has several food, wine, and music festivals that take place during the summer months.

Shoulder season, from April to May and from October to November, is an option for pleasant weather and smaller crowds, but know that some places will be closed and ferries won’t run as often.

Croatia’s Holy Week celebrations involve stunning processions — this can be a nice time to visit Korčula.

Much of Korčula shuts down in the winter months. I wouldn’t recommend visiting at this time unless you were coming to do nothing, like if you wanted a quiet place to write a book for a month or so.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Croatia

Travel Insurance for Croatia

A lot of people don’t think it’s necessary to get travel insurance for Croatia — after all, it’s a safe country with decent healthcare. But you need it.  If you get sick or injured on your trip, if you get robbed, or even if you have to be flown home, travel insurance will protect you from financial ruin.  I’ve used World Nomads for trips to Croatia.

I have thankfully never needed to call my travel insurance for help while in Croatia — but I do have a friend who had to visit the hospital after being stung by a wasp in Split, one who sprained her ankle after falling down the steps in Dubrovnik, and one who got her wallet stolen and needed to go to the police station.

While Croatia’s hospital prices aren’t anywhere near what the US would charge you, you could end up paying a lot of money for a serious medical issue. But travel insurance protects you and refunds you for your costs. It’s the kind of thing you don’t know you need until you need it. See if World Nomads is right for you here.

Korčula is waiting for you!

Korčula is a fantastic island — and it makes me so happy. I had a great time on my first visit to Korčula in 2012, but I had the BEST time when I came back years later and stayed a week.

I’m proud to call Korčula one of my favorite islands in the world. I can only hope that you enjoy it as much as I did.

Go to Korčula island, have a wonderful trip — then come back and tell me all about it!

Planning a Trip to Croatia:

• Two Weeks in Croatia Itinerary
• What NOT to Do in Croatia
• Best Time to Visit Croatia
• Solo Female Travel in Croatia: Is it Safe?
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime

Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:

• How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
• 35 Fun Things to Do in Split, Croatia
• Vis, Croatia, is a Quietly Stunning Island
• Dubrovnik Survival Guide
• The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
• A Place Like Zadar
• 29 Sunny Things To Do In Hvar, Croatia

Istria and the North:

• Guide to Rovinj, Croatia’s Prettiest City
• Places to Visit in Istria, Croatia’s Italian-Flavored Peninsula
• 21 Unforgettable Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia

Many thanks to Korčula Tourism for supporting this trip in part . All opinions, as always, are my own.

Have you been to Korčula? Have any tips? Share away!

Korčula Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

If you have to choose one Croatian Island to visit, this is it! Korcula island is the best island in Croatia ! The picture perfect Korcula Old Town is just as pretty as Dubrovnik but set on a stunning Croatian Island! Add to that the amazing Korcula beaches, sumptuous Croatian cuisine as well as Croatian vineyards and you have everything you need for the best Croatia travel destination. In this Korcula destination guide, we give you Croatia travel tips, Korcula things to do, a guide to the best Croatia food and much more! Whether you prefer the slower pace of Vela Luka or the charming Korcula town, we’ve got you covered!

Short on time? Here are our Korcula Croatia top recommendations: Highlights : admire Korčula Old Town , bask on the beaches or sail on the crystal clear waters around the island. Activities : book your Korcula Croatia Tours with Get Your Guide . Accommodation : we use Booking.com to find the best hotels. Car Hire : for great value car rental in Croatia we recommend Localrent.com . Transport : FlixBus for intercity buses. Flights : find cheapest flights with cashback on WayAway . Airport Lounge Access : start your holiday the right way with Priority Pass . Travel Medical Insurance : SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is the ideal choice for long-term travellers and digital nomads.

What is Korčula Croatia known for?

Korčula is a beautiful island in Croatia that is famous for being the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo. The island is also known for its beautiful beaches which are surrounded by turquoise water. Korcula is also known for its wine production, in particular GRK and Pošip wines. Other culinary delights from Korcula include its olive oil and oysters. Additionally, Korcula is home to pretty pine forests as well as the delightful old town with its cobblestone streets, boutique shops and stunning views.

Why you should visit Korčula Croatia

For a relaxing island holiday in Croatia , you can’t go past Korcula. Korcula is a gorgeous island surrounded by crystal clear water. We loved exploring the many beautiful beaches all around the island. Additionally, Korcula has great hiking areas, breathtaking old town areas as well as a number of vineyards. It is a great place to indulge in delicious Croatian food, with an abundance of seafood as well as tasty regional dishes.

It takes around 40 minutes to drive across the island. On one end is Vela Luka, a sleepy fishing village which is surrounded by natural beauty. This is a great place to disconnect from the world and get back to nature. The drive to Korcula Old Town takes you past small villages and up to scenic lookout points. However one of our favourite parts of the island is the stretch of road leading down to Korcula Old Town. This is undoubtedly one of the prettiest stretches of road that we’ve ever seen. The view of the town as you descend from the top of the island is an image that will stay with you long after you leave.

Korcula is also the perfect place for an active holiday. In particular the island is ideal for water sports. We enjoyed taking a kayak out for the day and exploring the hidden gems of the island. However if you prefer a more luxurious experience, why not rent a boat and sail around the island!

Korčula Destination Guide: Know before you go

Basic info about korčula croatia.

• Language – Standard Croatian. English is widely spoken, but not everyone you meet will be able to speak English.
• Currency – euro (EUR). This has been the official currency of Croatia since 1 January 2023. Prior to 2023, the currency of Croatia was the Croatian Kuna (HKR). Currency exchanges can be found in most cities and ATMs are also available on the island of Korčula.
• Population – 17,000 (2011)
• Area – 279 km 2
• County – Dubrovnik-Neretva
• Region – Dalmatia
• Emergency number – 112
• Police number – 192

Utilities in Korčula Croatia

• Electricity – Croatia uses Type C as well as Type F power plugs. The country operates on a 230v supply voltage at 50Hz. Power outages are not common in Croatia and typically do not last for long.
• Water – the tap water in Croatia is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country. However we found a lot of sediment in the tap water on Korčula and the taste of the water wasn’t great. This is because the water on Korčula is hard water. The water is safe, but can be an acquired taste. Due to these considerations we decided to boil our water in Vela Luka. Furthermore, on the Korčula Old Town side of the island our accommodation had a water filtration system.
• Toilets – sit-down flushing toilets are the most common type of toilet in Croatia. Additionally, you can flush your toilet paper directly into the bin. Public toilets are common in the larger cities in Croatia. Public toilets along the coast often have a charge for use. This can range anywhere from 25 cents to 1 euro. However, we have found toilets in shopping centres that are free to use. Furthermore, most restaurants have toilets that guests are free to use.
• Telephone country code: +385

Where is Korčula Croatia?

Korčula is in the central Dalmatia county of Dubrovnik-Neretva in the Dalmatia region of Croatia . It is a Croatian island on the Adriatic Sea.

The closest major Croatian city to Korčula is Split on mainland Croatia. Nearby islands include Brač, Vis as well as Hvar . Korčula is 2- 2.5 hours by ferry from Split and 2 hours by ferry from Dubrovnik .

How to get to Korčula Croatia

Korčula destination guide: Arriving by land

The island of Korčula is accessible from Split , Orebić as well as Dubrovnik on mainland Croatia .

Korčula Croatia intercity land transport

The main transport options for travelling overland to Korčula Croatia are:

• Private vehicle
• Private transport operator
• Shuttle Bus – Pleso Prijevoz operates a shuttle bus service between Split Airport and the Split bus terminal. A one way ticket costs 8 euro (prices as at 2024). The journey time is 40 minutes.

Driving to Korčula from within Croatia

It is possible to bring your own vehicle to Korčula on a ferry.

Intercity trains to Korčula Croatia

There is a train line running from Zagreb to nearby Split Croatia . However from Split, you need to take a ferry to Korčula.

Intercity buses to Korčula Croatia

A common way to get around Croatia is by using intercity buses. The closest bus stop on the mainland is at Orebić, which is a 15 minute ferry ride from Korčula Old Town.

Korčula destination guide: Arriving by air

The nearest major airport to Korčula is Brač Airport (Airport code BWK). It is 52km (32 miles) from Korčula.

Other nearby airports include:

• Split Airport (Airport code SPU). This airport is 68km (42 miles) away.
• Mostar Airport, Bosnia & Herzegovina (Airport code OMO). This airport is 94km (58 miles) away.
• Zadar Airport (Airport code ZAD). This airport is 103km (64 miles) away.

The national airline of Croatia is Croatia Airlines.

Korčula destination guide: Arriving by boat

The island of Korčula is on the Adriatic Sea. There are 4 ports on Korčula island – at Dominče, Korčula Town, Vela Luka as well as Prigradica. There are ferries and catamarans from Korčula to Split , Orebić and Dubrovnik on mainland Croatia as well as the nearby Dalmatian islands of Hvar , Ubli, Bol, Brač and Mljet. Some ferries can accommodate vehicles as well as foot passengers.

The closest city to Korčula island on mainland Croatia is Orebić. Depending on the season, there are 2-16 ferries that make the crossing from Orebić to Dominče Korčula each day. The journey time is 15 minutes. A one way ticket costs around 2-4 euro for adults (as at 2024).

There are 4 ferry companies that provide ferries to Korčula:

• Jadrolinija
• Kapetan Luka – Krilo
• G&V Line Iadera

Korčula destination guide: How to get around Korčula Croatia

Walking in korčula croatia.

By far the easiest as well as the cheapest way to get around the main areas in Korčula is to walk. Additionally, most of the main attractions in each area are within easy walking distance. Furthermore, due to the narrow streets and stairs you cannot drive in the Old Town area of Korčula.

Local buses in Korčula Croatia

Local buses service Korčula. These services are operated by the local public transport service, autotrans. Korčula is the main hub from which most buses either depart or arrive.

Common bus journeys in Korčula include:

• Korčula – Vela Luka: one way fare 6 euro (as at 2024), journey time approximately 1 hour
• Korčula – Žrnovo: one way fare 2.70 euro (as at 2024), journey time approximately 5 minutes
• Korčula – Lumbarda: one way fare 2.40 euro (as at 2024), journey time approximately 15 minutes
• Korčula – Kneže: one way fare 3.50 euro (as at 2024), journey time approximately 17 minutes
• Korčula – Račišće: one way fare 3.60 euro (as at 2024), journey time approximately 25 minutes

Trams in Korčula Croatia

Korčula does not have a tram system.

Local trains in Korčula Croatia

There are no trains on Korčula.

Metro trains (subway or underground) in Korčula Croatia

Korčula does not have an underground train line.

Vehicle hire in Korčula Croatia

A wide variety of vehicles can be rented in Croatia . This includes:

• Bicycles – There are a number of bike hire shops on the island such as TITAN-Scooter and Bike rental in Korcula.
• Electric scooters
• Motorcycles

In Croatia people drive on the right side of the road.

There are vehicle hire companies on Korčula Island. Alternatively, you can hire a car on mainland Croatia and take the car over on the ferry.

Localrent.com is ideal for hiring a car in Croatia, offering competitive rates and personalised service. The user-friendly platform connects you with local providers, featuring a wide range of vehicles to suit any trip. With transparent pricing, detailed rental info, and responsive customer support, booking is a breeze. Renting a car through Localrent.com gives you the freedom to explore Croatia’s historic cities, stunning coastlines, and scenic countryside at your own pace.

Taxis in Croatia

Taxis are common in Croatia . Fares are regulated and are also usually metered. However outside of major cities taxis may not have meters. In this case the fare will be a fixed price. However in general your fare will include the following costs:

• The pickup fee or minimum fee – this is charged as soon as you get into the vehicle.
• Price per kilometre
• Price per hour – this is a price that gets charged when the taxi is stuck in heavy traffic.

Taxi tariffs in Croatia are set by the cities or districts.

Ride-share services in Korčula Croatia

There are a number of rideshare services operating in Croatia . These include Uber, Bolt as well as CarpoolWorld. There is even UberBOAT on the Dalmatian coast during tourist season.

Korčula destination guide: Is Korčula worth visiting?

Korčula is one of our favourite destinations in Croatia and is certainly worth visiting. The island has a relaxed vibe and an abundance of natural beauty. It is easily accessible by ferry from Split or Dubrovnik . Moreover, Korcula has a surprising array of great things to do, which makes it easy to fill your days on the island. You can explore the historic and beautiful old town with its medieval walls, forts, historic buildings, palaces and squares including visiting St Mark’s Cathedral. Lumbarda village is also worth visiting for its sandy beaches and great white wine. Vela Luka offers great hiking opportunities, a peaceful town and some secluded beaches.

Korčula destination guide: How long to spend in Korčula Croatia

Korčula is a great place to come for a week or even more. It is an unbelievably beautiful island with a stunning old town and plenty of amazing beaches, restaurants as well as vineyards to discover. We spent 2 weeks in Korčula, but could have easily stayed much longer in this piece of paradise.

Korčula destination guide: What to do in Korčula Croatia

Korčula is a beautiful Croatian island with many activities on offer. It has a range of great free activities as well as paid activities.

Korčula destination guide: Free things to do in Korčula Croatia

There are enough free activities in Korčula Croatia to keep you entertained for a weekend or even a leisurely week:

• Korčula Old Town
• Pupnatska Luka Beach
• Kocje Nature Park
• Vela Przina Beach
• Revelin Tower
• Zakerja Tower
• Luka Mozaika – World’s Longest Mosaic
• Vela Luka Marina
• Martina Bok Beach
• Little Church Vela Luka
• FKK Beach Lumbarda

For more details, see our Korcula travel guide on the 11 Best Free Things To Do in Korcula Croatia .

Korčula destination guide: Paid activities in Korčula Croatia

A number of attractions in Korčula Croatia charge an entry fee:

• Cathedral of St. Mark – entrance to the bell tower is 5 euro for adults (as at 2024).
• Proizd Island – return ferry fare is around 13 euro for adults (as at 2024) and the journey is 35 minutes each way from Korčula.
• Marco Polo Museum – permanently closed as of 2023.
• Marco Polo House – entry fee is 8 euro for adults (as at 2024).
• Korcula Town Museum – entry fee is 6 euro for adults (as at 2024).

Other paid activities in Korčula Croatia include:

• Fishing charters and tours
• Watersports

Weather in Korčula Croatia

Korčula enjoys a warm temperate climate. Its climate is heavily influenced by the nearby Mediterranean area. It has cold winters, with average temperature range between 6°C and 11°C in the coldest month of January. Summers last from June to September and are hot and sunny, with the average temperature range between 22°C and 30°C in the hottest month of July. The month with the most rainfall is November with 9.6 days of rain on average. The driest month is July with an average of 3.2 rainy days.

Best time to visit Korčula Croatia

The best time to visit Korčula is between May and September, when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. The peak tourist season is between June and August, so expect higher prices at that time.

Internet and mobile phones in Croatia

Since June 15th, 2017, Roam Like at Home (RLAT) rules came into force for European Union countries. As such, people with European Union mobile numbers are no longer charged temporary mobile roaming fees if they travel within the European Union. This means that if you have a European Union mobile number, you can use that number anywhere within the European Union and you will be charged for calls, texts and data in the same rates as if you were in your home country. There are limits to this in order to prevent abuse of these rules.

The main internet and phone companies in Croatia include Croatian Telecom (Hrvatski Telekom), A1, Telemach, Bonbon as well as Tomato.

5G has been in Croatia since October 2020. 3G is expected to be switched off in Croatia in early 2025.

Croatia is ranked 21 st fastest in the world for mobile internet speeds and 78 th fastest for fixed broadband. For Fixed Broadband the average download speed is 71mbps and upload is 29mbps (as at May 2024).

Cell phone SIM cards can be bought in many places throughout Croatia. These include phone stores, some supermarkets, newspaper kiosks as well as online.

How much to budget for Korčula Croatia?

Is korčula expensive.

Korčula is a popular Croatian island that can be expensive, but it’s still cheaper than another popular Croatian island, Hvar. However, it is possible to visit the island on a budget. You can choose to stay in a hostel or a cheap hotel. You can also use public transport which is affordable. Additionally, you can make your own breakfast and dinner to save money. There are also restaurants outside the city center and close to tourist attractions that offer affordable meals. Finally, visiting during the off-season and sticking to free or cheap activities can help you save money.

Korčula destination guide: Daily spend for a couple travelling in Korčula Croatia

As a rough guide, we recommend the following budgets for a couple:

• Low-budget daily spend – 100 euro per day for a couple will get you budget accommodation, self catering and bakery meals, walking or catching local transport to get around the city and free or cheap activities.
• Mid-range daily spend – 300 euro per day for a couple will get you mid-range accommodation, walking or catching local transport to get around the city, dining at reasonably priced cafes and restaurants and some paid activities.
• Luxury spend – 1000 euro per day for a couple will get you a premium experience, staying at high end hotels, travelling by private transport, doing a range paid activities and eating at high end restaurants.

Korčula destination guide: Accommodation in Korčula Croatia

There is a good range of accommodation to suit most budgets in Korčula Croatia. Airbnb operates in Croatia and we were impressed with the range of options available in Korčula.

Where to stay in Korčula Croatia

We recommend the following accommodation in Korčula:

• Best hostel in Korčula – If you are looking for a fun and relaxing hostel, Dragan’s Den Hostel is a great choice. You can enjoy the sun and the water at the gorgeous pool area, or mingle with other travellers in the common spaces. The hostel is located in a peaceful area, but still within walking distance from the old town. The facilities are spotless, the kitchen has everything you need and the owner is very welcoming.
• Best Guesthouse in Korčula – Experience the magic of staying in a medieval castle at Boutique rooms Kaštel Ismaeli , a cozy and elegant accommodation with a stunning view of the sea. The host will go above and beyond to make your stay memorable and enjoyable, providing you with useful tips and information. You will sleep soundly on the comfy beds and wake up to a scrumptious breakfast every morning.
• Best mid-range hotel in Korčula – Nestled in the heart of Korcula Old Town, Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel offers a refined and stylish accommodation. The friendly and attentive staff will make you feel at home, while the delicious breakfasts served on the lovely terrace will start your day on a high note. The hotel boasts stunning views of the sea and the sunset, creating a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

How much is accommodation in Korčula Croatia?

For short-term accommodation, a general price per night is as follows:

• Budget accommodation – 13-17 euro for a dorm
• Mid-range accommodation – 25-150 euro for a private room
• Luxury accommodation – 200-600 euro a night for a luxury hotel
• Rental property – 80-400 euro a night for a fully furnished 3-4 bedroom home

Keep in mind that accommodation prices on Korčula vary significantly depending on the season. Specifically, prices during the summer period are often double what you would pay for the same accommodation at other times of year.

Korčula destination guide: Food in Korčula Croatia

Being on the water, seafood is very popular in Korčula.

How much does food cost in Korčula Croatia?

Our price guide for your food budget in Korčula Croatia is as follows (prices as at 2022):

• Restaurant meal – 10-25 euro for a main dish
• Bakery food – burek 2-3 euro, cake 2-3 euro, 1-2 euro for loaf of bread, chocolate donut
• Glass of wine – 4-6 euro
• Coffee – 2-3 euro

Regional dishes in Korčula Croatia

• Zrnovski Makaruni – homemade fresh pasta which is rolled into a tubular shape. The recipe comes from the small town of Žrnovo on the island of Korčula.
• Klašuni – a small cookie, usually made into a crescent shape. The dough is made with ammonium bicarbinate. It is filled with a nut based filling which sometimes also includes fig or orange jam. The cookie is often flavoured with citrus zest, rose liqueur and vanilla.
• Cukarini – this is a crispy cookie which is made with ammonium bicarbinate and also has a subtle citrus flavour. It is made to resemble two serpents in the shape of a heart. The cookie is dipped in rose liqueur and sugar after baking.
• Dalmatinska pašticada – a beef stew cooked in a sweet and sour sauce. The meat is marinated in vinegar before being cooked with red wine, prunes and bacon. It is typically served with a side of gnocchi or pasta.
• Brudet (also called brodetto) – a fish stew made from several types of fish. This is a very popular dish throughout Dalmatia.bus
• Black risotto (also called crni rižot) – a squid or cuttlefish risotto that is black in colour due to the ink from the squid or cuttlefish.
• Octopus salad
• Dalmatian Peka – a baked dish made with meat and vegetables and slow cooked over embers in a fireplace under a heavy cast iron bell. Any type of meat can be used.

Cheap Eats in Korčula Croatia

• Pekarnicas (Croatian bakeries) are a great place to get cheap and delicious food. Burek is typically around 2-3 euro and a loaf of bread is around 1-2 euro. Other common food that can be found in pekarnicas include donuts and cakes.

Fine dining in Korčula Croatia

Korčula is home to a number of Michelin Guide restaurants.

1 star Michelin restaurants in Korčula Croatia (2024):

• LD Restaurant

Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants in Korčula Croatia (2024):

• Konoba Mate

Michelin Plate restaurants in Korčula Croatia (2024):

Korčula Croatia culture

Croatia national holidays.

• New Year’s Day – 1 January
• Epiphany – 6 January
• Easter Sunday – typically in March or April.
• Easter Monday – the Monday after Easter Sunday, typically in March or April.
• Labour Day – 1 May
• Statehood Day – 30 May
• Corpus Christi – 16 June
• Anti-Fascist Struggle Day – 22 June
• Victory Day – 5 August
• Assumption of Mary – 15 August
• All Saints’ Day – 1 November
• Remembrance Day for the victims of the Homeland War and Remembrance Day for the victims of Vukovar and Škabrnja – 18 November
• Christmas Day – 25 December
• Saint Stephen’s Day – 26 December

National symbols of Croatia

• Croatia flag – a tricolour flag featuring three horizontal bands coloured red, white and blue from top to bottom. In the middle of the flag, across the three bands, is the Croatia coat of arms
• Croatia coat of arms – a red and white checkerboard on a main shield with a crown of five smaller shields. The five smaller shields represent the five different historical regions of Croatia. These five shields have symbols on them, but their background colours alternate between bleu celeste and azure.
• National flower – iris
• National bird – common nightingale
• Croatia’s national animal – kuna zlatica (European pine marten)

Croatia pastimes

• National dish – Istrian Yota
• Popular drinks – Rakija, loza, Malvazija wine, Teran wine
• National sport – football
• Religion – 80% Catholic, 6% Eastern orthodox (as at 2019)

Famous people from Korčula Croatia

• Famous people born in Korčula Croatia – legend has it that Marco Polo was born in Korčula
• Korčula’s sporting success story – in 1978 the local water polo team KPK (Korčulanski plivački klub; Korčula Swimming Club) won the prestigious European water polo competition, the LEN Cup Winners’ Cup. This made Korčula the smallest town to win a European title in water polo. Furthermore the majority of the team as well as the coach were born and learned to play water polo on the island.

Is Korčula Croatia Safe?

Croatia travel guide: safety in croatia.

We travelled through Croatia for two months and found the country to be extremely safe. Croatia ranks 14 th safest country on the Global Peace Index (as at 2023). As with any country, there are good areas and bad areas. Watch out for pickpockets particularly at crowded tourist attractions in Dubrovnik , Split and Zagreb as well as in National Parks. Make sure no-one is watching whenever you are entering pin codes and never lose sight of your credit card when making a purchase. Take care in nightclubs and don’t accept free drinks as drink spiking is a particular risk.

If you are planning to explore more remote areas, beware that there may still be unexploded landmines from the Croatian War of Independence.

Croatia travel guide: General safety considerations in Croatia

Other general safety considerations for travel in Croatia:

• Drinking water – Tap water is safe to drink almost everywhere in the country.
• Mosquitoes – the tiger mosquito has been found in Croatia. This type of mosquito spreads diseases such as Zika, dengue and chikunguya. Malaria was eradicated in Croatia in 1964. Locally transmitted cases of dengue fever have been reported on the Adriatic Coast and in northeastern Croatia.
• Altitude sickness – Croatia has areas of high altitude. This comes with the risk of altitude sickness. If you are planning to visit any high altitude areas in Croatia, be sure to allow sufficient time to acclimatise. If you experience any signs of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, tiredness, loss of appetite or shortness of breath, get help immediately.
• Road safety – Croatia has been making progress with improvements in road safety in recent years. However it still has one of the highest rates of road fatalities in Europe . This is due to a combination of narrow and windy roads as well as speed and other driver behaviour. Take care on the roads in Croatia.
• Water safety – If you visit any of the coastal areas or lakes, take care when swimming as currents and waves may be stronger than you expect. Watch out for sea urchins as they can sting.
• Earthquakes – Croatia experiences earthquake activity. If you experience an earthquake, stay away from glass, windows, outside doors and walls and anything that could fall. If you are inside get under a table, desk or solid furniture and hang onto it. Cover your head and torso to protect from falling objects. If you are outside, stay outside and go to an open area away from buildings.
• Sun safety – Exposure to the sun can have adverse short-term and long-term effects on the skin, eyes and immune system. Sun protection such as sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses is very important to ensure you don’t get burnt.

Croatia Blogs

You can find our Croatia travel blogs below.

16 Best FREE Things To Do in Dubrovnik Croatia (with map)

11 Best FREE Things To Do in Korčula Croatia (with map)

12 Best FREE Things To Do in Hvar Croatia (with map)

21 Best FREE Things To Do in Split Croatia (with map)

18 Best FREE Things To Do in Zadar Croatia (with map)

16 Best FREE Things To Do in Zagreb Croatia (with map)

Dubrovnik Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Hvar Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Split Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Zadar Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Zagreb Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Affiliate links.

This website contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission on any purchases at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us continue our travels and make more travel blogs and travel videos , thank you!

Similar Posts

18 Best FREE Things To Do in Avignon France (with map)

12 Best FREE Things To Do in Durrës Albania (with map)

10 Best FREE Things To Do in Vlorë Albania (with map)

15 Best FREE Things To Do in Toulon France (with map)

Tioman Island Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Perhentian Islands Destination Guide (2024): What You Need to Know

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The Ultimate Guide to Korčula, Croatia

Korčula, Croatia may not be the most popular island, but it is by far one of the most beautiful ones. If you love beautiful nature and beaches and want to experience authentic Croatian culture without the hoards of tourists during peak season, Korčula may just be the perfect place for you to stay during your next Croatia trip.

Here is my ultimate guide to Korčula island, Croatia.

How to get to Korčula

You can get the ferry to Korčula from Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik, and Mljet. Both car ferries and foot passenger ferries are available

• Map seen here: 

How much time to spend in Korčula

Many people visit Korcula coming from Dubrovnik, oftentimes visiting as a day trip. I highly recommend NOT doing this – there are so many amazing things to see and do on and nearby Korcula that you will want at least 3 days here. My original plan was to stay 3 days, but I kept extending my stay because I loved Korcula so much and ended up staying for 12 days!!!

Best time to visit Korčula

The best time to visit Korcula is September – the water is still a nice temperature and it is less busy. May would also be a good time to visit, but the water might still be a little chilly. I went in July and while it was a bit busy (mostly during the weekends)  it did not compare to how busy Dubrovnik gets in the summer months.

Things to do in Korčula

Korčula old town.

The Korčula old town is known by many as “mini Dubrovnik”. Just like Dubrovnik, it is a walled town with centuries-old stone buildings with coral-colored rooftops, narrow alleyways, delicious traditional restaurants, and charming shops. I personally much prefer Korčula town to Dubrovnik’s old town, as there are far fewer people and it is just as beautiful.

Have a cocktail at one of the coolest bars in Croatia: Konoba “Marco Polo” Old Town Korčula

This is such a cool place to have a drink in Korčula Town! It is located on top of a tower on the city wall and offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding areas.

Go beach hopping

Korčula has some of the best beaches in Croatia. While there are a few small beaches that are actually quite nice around Korčula town, the real magic is the beaches around the island. Rent a car or motor scooter and spend the day driving around the island to go beach hopping. 

Cliff Jumping in Lumbarda:  

Lumbarda offers great cliff jumping activities. If you are feeling adventurous, go to Raznjic Korčula in Lumbarda and go Cliff Jumping right by the Lumbarda Lighthouse. If you are too scared to jump (like I was) you can also take your time climbing down the rocks to get in the water. It is an amazing swimming spot with gorgeous blue water – just make sure to wear your water shoes!!!

Located on the opposite side of the island from Korčula town, Vela Luka is a charming seaside town that is definitely worth the visit during your stay in Korcula. There are many buses that will take you directly to Vela Luka from Korčula Town, and it takes about 45 minutes to get there. From Vela Luka, you can take a water taxi to the island Proizd, which is known for having some of the best beaches in all of Croatia.

Hiking in Pupnat:

Korčula is well known for its beautiful nature, and offers some great hiking opportunities! My friend and I took the bus to Pupnat, where we then hiked up to the 

Try local wine at one of the many wineries on the island.

If you are a wine lover, you absolutely MUST try the local wines made in Korčula. The island has several family-owned wineries you can visit, including Vitis Winery, Grošić winery, Cipre Winery, and Lovrić Winery

What & Where to Eat / Drink in Korčula

My favorite dish that is traditional to Korčula was the Makaruni pasta. It is the island’s specialty dish and can be found in most Croatian restaurants on the island. The meat makaruni is the most traditional, but I also had some delicious makaruni with white cheese sauce and pesto.

Here are some of the best places to eat/drink in Korčula (I can attest that all were very delicious!)

• Konoba Maslina
• Skver Konoba (old town)
• Cocktail bar Massimo (overpriced but cool experience in the old town in a fortress, have to climb a ladder to get to the top
• LoLe Wine And Tapas Bar (old town)
• Konoba Aterina (old town)

Day Trips from Korčula

There are dozens of small islands just off the coast of Korcula, many of which you can reach via water taxi. The water Taxi service can be found right in the old town

Badija Island

Badija is a small, uninhabited island off the coast of Korcula and is an absolute MUST visit during your Korcula trip. Not only does Badija have beautiful beaches with crystal clear water, but the island is covered with pine trees, so the air smells like a beautiful combination of pine trees and salt water. Oh, and Badija is also home to some very, very cute deer you are almost certain to see 🙂

 Start off your trip to Badija by visiting the Franciscan Monastery before exploring the island. There is a walking trail that goes around the entire island, which takes about 30 minutes to walk. I suggest taking this path to explore the little beaches the island has to offer. There are tons of private, small beach areas around the island that you can have all to yourself (pictured below). Badija has some of the most beautiful water I’ve seen in Croatia and is perfect for swimming and snorkeling!

Once you’ve circled around the walking path, you can eat at the one restaurant that is on Badija. It’s located right by where the water taxi drops you off and picks you up, and is surprisingly pretty good despite having just 4.1 on Google reviews. I loved the traditional Makaruni with Chicken and definitely suggest ordering it if you want to eat here!

Proizd Island

Proizd is known to have some of the best beaches in all of Croatia. If you are a beach lover, this small island off the coast of Vela Luka is a MUST visit. I couldn’t get over how beautiful and clear the water was here. If you are staying in Korcula town, you will have to take a bus or drive to Vela Luka, where from there you will take a water taxi to Proizd. I took the bus so it took about an hour total to get from Korcula town to Proizd, but it was definitely worth the visit.

Vrnik Island

Vrnik is a small island that is close to Badija. You can easily hop from Badija to Vrnik, so if you are short on time you can definitely visit both islands in one day. Vrnik is habited by a few families, and you can actually stay on the island if you would like. I did a little hiking around Vrnik and then spent some time on a few beaches. I personally preferred Badija to Vrnik, so if you have to choose between the two I would recommend Badija. Still, Vrnik is very beautiful and if you are staying in Korcula for a while it is definitely worth the visit.

Orebic is located on the Pelješac peninsula on the coast of mainland Croatia. You can actually see it from Korcula town! If you like to kitesurf or windsurf, Orebić is a perfect day trip for you. You can rent equipment at the water donkey windsurfing school. I found the beaches to not be as nice as the ones on Korcula or its surrounding islands, so if you are looking for a relaxing beach experience I wouldn’t go out of your way to visit Orebic.

I didn’t do it, but there is a great hike you can take in Orebic to Sveti Ilija mountain, that offers some breathtaking views (apparently you can even see the mountains of Bosnia from the peak on a clear day). There are also lots of camping opportunities nearby if you want to stay overnight and rough it a little.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get the chance to visit Mljet (it is definitely on my “to visit”  places next time). Mljet is the southernmost of the large Croatian Islands and is also the greenest island, with more than two-thirds of its surface covered in forest. A large portion of the island is a protected national park, where you can see the beautiful untouched forests leading to peaceful shorelines and crystal clear water. The island is so beautiful that it is even known to have captivated Odysseus for seven years in Homer’s epic The Odyssey .

Getting Around the Island

Buses are a great option to navigate the island, with routes running to Lumbarda, Racisce, and Vela Luka, with other stops on the way. The main bus station in Korcula is centrally located and can provide information for all routes. You can also search for times at https://www.arriva.com.hr/en-us/home .

Motor scooters are a great option for getting around the island and are in high demand during high season. Despite this, you shouldn’t need to reserve one ahead of time, with plenty of options to rent from around the island. Renting a scooter will cost about 30 euros for a day, with the price becoming cheaper per day as you extend the rental. 

If you need something more substantial than a scooter, you can hire a car from a variety of services. Basic cars start at about 55 euros a day with consecutive days getting cheaper. During peak season, its best to reserve a car ahead of time to ensure you have one available, particularly if you need a larger model or want to ensure you get the best price.

There are lots of taxi options around the island (they’ll be hard to miss) and they can be a convenient option for getting around easily. However, they are not the cheapest option, so be ready to spend more if you plan to use taxis often.

Best Beaches

Pupnatska luka beach.

This was my favorite beach in Korcula! Beautiful clear blue water, not too crowded (even during the summer months), and a super relaxing vibe.

I unfortunately didn’t visit this beach when I went to Korcula, but some of the friends I made there raved about it! You need a car or motorbike to get here. If you love a beautiful secluded beach, Zitna is a must-visit.

Nova beach is located in Potirna and is easily accessible by car or foot. This beach can get somewhat crowded, but it is popular for its sunny shoreline and the easy, shallow entrance into the perfect, beautiful blue water.

Pavja Luka beach is located in a bay sharing the same name on the southern coast of Korcula. It’s a bit of a walk to get here, as you’ll need to walk about 10 minutes from the nearby road to reach the secluded beach, However, the walk is worth it, as you are rewarded with a beautiful beach covered in tiny pebbles that leads into crystal clear water. There are also lots of old stone walls nearby, over which you can catch great views of the nearby peninsula.

Luka Korculanska Beach (old town)

 A lovely place to swim right by the old town. You will have a beautiful view of Korcula Old Town, and lots of space to lay out your beach towel and relax for a couple of hours. I suggest coming here for sunset as it offers a gorgeous view!

Like this post? Pin it for later!

Related Posts

Albania might not be the first destination to come to mind when you think of…

Interested in taking your first solo trip? Solo traveling can be intimidating for the newbies…

After visiting every Balkan country, I can confidently say that some countries are, ehrm.. more…

• Tags: balkans , Croatia , korcula

share this post!

thepetitewanderer

Related posts.

Fall in Cape Cod: Things to Do in Cape Cod in the Fall

The Ultimate Budget Guide to the Amalfi Coast

How to Spend 3 Days in Paxos, Greece

Hey, i'm kerry.

popular posts

WEBSITE DESIGNED WITH LOVE BY KERRY IRELAND CREATIVE STUDIO

Under-The-Radar Beaches You Need To Visit In Europe

T ravelers off to Europe will find a wealth of activities from recreational to touristy. Beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts, in particular, will be delighted with all the opportunities for fun in the sun seaside. Of course, popular beach destinations like Ibiza, Mykonos , and the French Riviera will not disappoint. But, if you are looking for a more affordable and low-key oceanside getaway, then you should definitely consider a few other lesser-known options.

Since there is no shortage of beaches in this part of the world, finding the perfect sandy spot for your holiday should not be too difficult. Whether it's a breathtaking paradise sans the crowds, phenomenal surfing, crystal clear waters, a boating haven, stunning landscape vistas, or a one-of-a-kind island retreat you crave, there are countless shorelines to choose from. That said, to help ensure your upcoming beach vacation is everything you could hope for and more, here are some of the best under-the-radar beaches in Europe to add to the itinerary.

Read more: Best Beach Towns You've Never Heard Of

Bilin Žal Beach, Korcula, Croatia

Located just off the coast of the mainland of Croatia , the island of Korcula is home to one of the most pristine and under-the-radar beaches — Billin Žal. The island paradise of Korcula is teeming with inviting shores, all offering unobstructed access to some of the most mesmerizing blue waters. But Billin Žal is an incredible spot worth checking out if you happen to be in the area, even though it is not necessarily the largest or most touristy beach on the island.

For vacationers needing some seaside relaxation, Billin Žal is a lovely destination. With shimmering turquoise water, lush greenery, golden sandy knolls, rugged pathways littered with white stones, and awe-inspiring coastal scenery as far as the eye can see, this beach is truly a must-visit. Besides offering the perfect setting for much-needed downtime, Billin Žal is also a great option for families, especially during mid-to-late summer. Billin Žal beach visitors can enjoy a quick swim, sunbathing, various recreational activities, fruity refreshments, delightful seasonal eats at a handful of waterfront cafes, and so much more.

Sarakiniko, Milos, Greece

Milos, Greece, is also home to several amazing beaches, including the often-overlooked Sarakiniko beach. Touted as one of the heavenly points of interest on this Greek island, this beach is far from sandy. Sarakiniko is brimming with fascinating pale-faced volcanic rock formations and mysterious caves — though a few level areas are ideal for lounging under the sun. This beach also has several natural sea-filled pools that are both shallow and swimmer-friendly. That said, shoes (water shoes and sandals) are highly recommended on land and in the water at Sarakiniko since the terrain is not as smooth as it appears. Still, with its crystal-clear waters and overall ethereal vibes, Sarakiniko is undoubtedly the perfect beach-like escape.

Not only is Sarakiniko a unique attraction, but this beach is also quite massive. So even though locals and visitors sometimes make their way out to this under-the-radar spot, during the summer months, the breathtaking beach never feels crowded. With water recreation galore, cave exploring, and ample opportunities for otherworldly photos, Sarakiniko is a fantastic beach day trip you should add to your holiday itinerary when traipsing about the Greek Isles or visiting Milos.

Praia De Monte Clérigo, Aljezur, Portugal

Yet another hidden gem in Europe when it comes to beaches is none other than Praia de Monte Clérigo in Aljezur, Portugal. In Vicentine Coast Natural Park, Praia de Monte Clérigo is a favorite among locals, especially those trying to catch a good wave. Like the surrounding landscape, this beach is an unspoiled wonder on the Algarve's northwestern coast, with direct access to the Atlantic Ocean.

Here, beachgoers can marvel at the golden sand, crashing waves, rock pools, impressive cliffs, and all the natural beauty of this beach. In addition to first-rate surfing , Praia de Monte Clérigo visitors can also take advantage of this untouched region's clear waters by opting to go snorkeling, swimming, boating, and kayaking. What's more, just around the corner from Praia de Monte Clérigo, you will also find the dazzling coastal village of Aljezur. This off-the-beaten-path town is full of splendid attractions, colorful houses, lovely shops, several snack bars, and al fresco restaurants, making it the perfect stop off after spending time at Praia de Monte Clérigo.

Playa Sa Riera, Costa Brava, Spain

Playa Sa Riera is an underrated destination and sea cove in Begur, Spain's Costa Brava region. Once a local fishing community, this expansive beachy spot is now the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the warm waters of the Mediterranean. Playa Sa Riera is known for its sandy coastline, dramatic landscape, luxury villas, and all-around pleasantness. This slice of paradise was made for families and anyone looking to make memories that will last a lifetime.

From building sandcastles and going for a leisure swim to renting canoes and enjoying other amenities, Playa Sa Riera is a charming location for beach lovers. With picturesque views of fishing boats, forested land, and the sea, nature enthusiasts will feel right at home. This often-overlooked beach has an on-duty lifeguard, onsite beach facilities, showers, and free parking. Playa Sa Riera also has hilltop walkways that offer incredible views, easy access to a must-see medieval village, al fresco restaurants, and beachside bars. Overall, this alluring seaside cove has all the makings of a great day at the beach — so make sure you check it out.

Es Trenc Beach, Mallorca, Balearic Islands

As a destination, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, is a must for avid beachgoers. Situated off the southern coast of Spain, an unspoiled wonderland rich with white sand shores and brilliant blue waters is what awaits visitors here. With over 200 superb beaches to choose from, a holiday in Mallorca is sure to please even the pickiest of beach lovers. Nevertheless, due to the sheer number of options, more than a few beaches may not be on your radar when they should be.

Es Trenc, for instance, is one wondrous beach that does not attract many out-of-towners due to its remoteness. But this utterly gorgeous beach should be on the roster. An out-of-the-way tropical escape, an Es Trenc outing can be whatever you choose to make it. Far from the hotel resorts, Es Trenc is a breathtaking sight, with its only downside being that some areas are more or less bring-your-own-everything. So, if you do not want to carry all your beach gear in tow, stay closer to the beach's public entrance. That said, if you want to get away from all the overly touristy spots, then Es Trenc is the beach for you.

The Beaches Of Calanques, Provence, France

Calanques National Park in Provence, France, is another European destination with secret beaches and outdoor adventure. Inside this glorious national park, beach enthusiasts can choose from such amazing sandy coves as Saint-Estéve, Sormiou, and Port-Pin — to name a few. Both Sormiou and Saint-Estéve have lifeguards during the summer, so it is highly recommended that you make your way over to these white sands for supervised fun in the sun.

Similarly, Port-Pin Beach offers visitors a chance to get out there and enjoy the remarkable coastline. Here, beachgoers will find a pristine beach with pebbles and white sand, some of the clearest water, and ample water activities to pass the time. Of course, with an abundance of outdoor recreation (hiking, climbing, and guided tours), many Calanques visitors often miss out on the beaches of this breathtaking nature preserve. So, if you happen to be in this neck of the woods, make sure you plan for some quality time at one of the lesser-known beaches in Calanques.

Kelebekler Vadisi Beach, Turkey

Kelebekler Vadisi (or Butterfly Valley) Beach, in Turkey, should also make it onto your European vacation to-do list. Like so many other phenomenal places in Europe, Turkey has no shortage of beaches. Particularly, in the Muğla region, where this underrated beach can be found, there are over 100 beaches that rank high among beach lovers. But what makes Kelebekler Vadisi Beach so unique is its display of sheer natural beauty.

Tucked away in Butterfly Valley along the Mediterranean, this beach is a true utopia with soft, white sands, shimmering waters, towering cliffs, blossoming wildflowers, fluttering butterflies, distant waterfalls, and a beyond-impressive coastline. Reachable only by boat, Kelebekler Vadisi Beach is worth the trip, especially if you are looking for a secluded beach getaway that is simply unmatched. Here, visitors can take it easy on land, take a cooling dip in the sea, partake in some snorkeling, go sailing, or just admire the view. Whatever you decide to do at Kelebekler Vadisi Beach, you can be sure that this natural setting will have you at ease.

Kynance Cove, Cornwall, U.K.

Holidaymakers off to Cornwall, England, will quickly see why this beach town is the place to be for Londoners during the warmer months. Home to a plethora of beaches and some of the dreamiest stretches of coastlines in the United Kingdom, Cornwall has a lot to offer visitors in addition to its revered history, art, culture, and cuisine. For many, beaches like Porthcurno, Holywell Bay, Porthcurnick, and Summerleaze are absolute musts when in town. But often, Kynance Cove gets left off the must-see list for out-of-towners.

Yet Kynance Cove is a gorgeous beach with so much to offer. Situated on the Lizard Peninsula, Kynance Cove has enchanting serpentine rock formations, grassy knolls, sandy terrain, sapphire sea, a quaint onsite café, several tourist attractions, and endless entertainment. Considered a Cornish gem by all who have had the pleasure of visiting Kynance Cove, this lively seaside haven is family-friendly and one of many underrated spots you do not want to miss if your objective is a lovely day at the beach.

Ksamil Beach, Albania

If your vacation plans take you to Albania, Ksamil should be your go-to beach destination. Often referred to as the jewel of the Albanian Riviera or the "Maldives of Europe," this little town is ideal for relaxing on holiday and immersing oneself in all things beach-related. While enjoying the good life in the city of Ksamil, travelers should make it a point to stop by Ksamil Beach.

Touted as one of the most attractive beaches in the area, Ksamil Beach, surprisingly, is still a well-kept secret that not many tourists know about. With all the fun of the Mediterranean, rooftop bars overlooking the sea, great al fresco restaurants, golden sands, blue waters, lush greenery, colorful lounge chairs, and your choice of watersports, Ksamil Beach is simply a good time waiting to happen. Another bonus with this lesser-known utopia is that once the sun sets, the last thing you want to do is call it a day because this tropical paradise has quite the nightlife scene. So, if you head to Ksamil Beach, do yourself a favor and give yourself adequate time to fully experience this amazing place.

Amager Strandpark, Copenhagen, Denmark

For a memorable day at the beach, European wanderers should definitely check out Amager Strandpark in Copenhagen, Denmark, any time of the year. Not only does this lesser-known beach park offer world-class surfing and ample recreation, but there are also a variety of ongoing local events and cultural festivals that make use of this sandy holiday spot. With fantastic vistas, nearby windmills, kid-friendly lagoons, tall grass swaying in the wind, and the Baltic Sea, Amager Strandpark is a real treat regardless of your preferred beach activities.

Amager Strandpark is also conveniently located a bikeable distance from the city center, so getting here is more than doable. From great facilities, sports fields, and picnic areas to the Copenhagen Surf School and a wonderful vantage point for several city attractions, Amager Strandpark, visitors can make the most of their vacation at this beach. So, if you have always wanted to go to Copenhagen to appreciate its history, culture, architecture, fairytale-like canals , and gastronomy, remember you can still have the quintessential beach experience on top of it all at Amager Strandpark.

Kilmurvey Beach, Inis Mor, Ireland

Inis Mor, Ireland, is known for its natural beauty. Inis Mor is a sight to behold, with rugged cliffs, blue waters, and some of the most captivating landscapes. But before getting caught up in the wealth of this island's diverse scenery, visitors should make it a point to plan an outing to Kilmurvey Beach. A favorite among many, Kilmurvey Beach is simply marvelous thanks to its stunning vistas, semi-secluded vibe, white sands, brilliant blue waters, rock pools, secret coves, and endless recreational fun.

When visiting this hidden gem, most take advantage of the stellar kayaking, swimming, surfing, snorkeling, and sunbathing available here. Marine life enthusiasts can also marvel at this island's seal colony via boat. And if relaxation is more your thing, then Kilmurvey Beach is undoubtedly an excellent place for partaking in some good old-fashioned outdoor wellness, including a possible yoga session oceanside. Kilmurvey Beach has on-site facilities, a lifeguard on duty during the summer, nearby monuments and ancient ruins, shops, and a café.

Isola Bella Beach, Sicily, Italy

Though Isola Bella Beach is one of the most well-known beachy spots in Taormina, Sicily, many tourists overlook this incredible natural wonder when they should not. Of course, while enjoying the view here, beachgoers can swim in the clear, revitalizing azure waters and marvel at the sandy walkway (visible during low tide) that leads to a breathtakingly beautiful islet just off the mainland. Despite its narrow strip of beach, the rest of Isola Bella is pebbled, but there is still much fun to have here.

Isola Bella has two main sections — a free beach and a beach club offering towels, refreshments, and much more. Affectionately called the "Pearl of the Ionian Sea," Isola Bella has several sea caves you can explore and is prime territory for sunbathers. Even if you don't consider yourself an avid sunbather, you can have an exciting time at this beach, as there are various boating tours and an on-site nature reserve, making it easy to mix up your activities while spending some leisure time at Isola Bella.

Playa De La Tejita, Tenerife

Last but not least, Playa de la Tejita in Tenerife, near El Medano, is a hidden oasis that promises vacationers a truly stellar day at the beach. At this golden sands nirvana, there are quite a few activities to enjoy — from windsurfing and surfing to sunbathing sans your swimwear (on the eastern side). Playa de la Tejita is a rather expansive beach, so if you prefer to frolic about in your bathing suit instead, you absolutely can.

Besides being a fun-filled partial nudist beach, Playa de la Tejita is lovely and serene. Here, you can cherish red-colored mountains, the wild coast, and the crashing waves, go sailing, or revel in all the peace and quiet. It is worth noting that the sea in this area can be rough, so it is highly recommended that you exercise caution if you plan on swimming. Still, if you are on your way to the Canary Islands, why not check out Tenerife's largest natural beach for a day of fun in the sun? Ultimately, wherever your wanderlust takes you, remember that countless under-the-radar beaches await you on your European getaway.

Read the original article on Explore .

©AleksandarGeorgiev/Getty Images

There simply is no way to tour Europe and not be awestruck by its natural beauty, epic history and dazzling artistic and culinary diversity.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

La Sagrada Família

L'Eixample

The Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família (Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family) is considered to be the symbol of Barcelona by many residents, and the…

Kungliga Slottet

A massive structure with more than 600 rooms on 11 levels, Kungliga Slottet (the Royal Palace) dominates the north end of Gamla Stan. The official…

Van Gogh Museum

This wonderful museum traces Van Gogh's life and artistic development via the world's largest collection of his work. More than 200 canvases are on…

Stiftsbibliothek

Northeastern Switzerland

If the greatest masterpieces on earth are wrought for the glory of God, St Gallen’s Stiftsbibliothek (Abbey Library), is like a living prayer. Religious…

Jungfraujoch

Bernese Oberland

This is the big one. At 3454m above sea level, Jungfraujoch is Europe’s highest train station: a once-in-a-lifetime trip, with views of the deeply…

Museo del Prado

Welcome to one of the world's premier art galleries. More than 7000 paintings are held in the Museo del Prado’s collection (of which only around 1500 are…

Museumsinsel

Museumsinsel & Alexanderplatz

Walk through ancient Babylon, meet an Egyptian queen, clamber up a Greek altar or be mesmerized by Monet's ethereal landscapes. Welcome to Museumsinsel …

Windsor Castle

Windsor & Eton

The world’s largest and oldest continuously occupied fortress, Windsor Castle is a majestic vision of battlements and towers. Used for state occasions, it…

Latest stories from Europe

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Cruising down a quiet river, surrounded by scenic views is an ideal way to see Europe. Here are the 10 best places for a European river cruise.

May 28, 2024 • 9 min read

May 24, 2024 • 9 min read

May 23, 2024 • 17 min read

May 13, 2024 • 13 min read

May 7, 2024 • 4 min read

May 3, 2024 • 5 min read

Apr 30, 2024 • 8 min read

Apr 16, 2024 • 6 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Europe

Europe and beyond.

• The Island and its places
• Cultural heritage
• Natural heritage
• Famous people
• By airplane
• Travel agencies
• Nautical Tourism
• Cycling routes
• Promenades and hiking
• Adventure, sports and fun
• Attractions
• Food and wine
• [email protected]

• THINGS TO DO

bike routes

worth cycling

Discover the island that boasts rich cultural and historical heritage and stunning landscapes and take a walk in the footsteps of the great explorer Marco Polo in our Great Island Bike Challenge.

Korčula bike routes description

• 'ROUTE No.1' CYCLING KORCULA
• 'ROUTE No.2' CYCLING KORCULA
• 'ROUTE No.3' CYCLING KORCULA
• 'ROUTE No.4' CYCLING KORCULA
• 'EUROVELO A8' CYCLING KORCULA

THE GREAT ISLAND BIKE CHALLENGE EXPLORE KORČULA Discover the island that boasts rich cultural and historical heritage and stunning landscapes and take a walk in the footsteps of the great explorer Marco Polo in our Great Island Bike Challenge. You can start from wherever it’s convenient for you depending on the location of your accommodation. Explore interesting towns and villages of the island of Korčula and visit beaches and lookout points that are often hidden, but surprisingly easily accessible. Don’t miss out on the popular tourist attractions such as churches, the gems of the historical heritage of the island. Technical specification: Length: a 131-kilometre circular cycling route Terrain: 91.2 km of asphalt roads (70%); 39.8 km of gravel roads (30%) Altitude: +2245/-2244 Start point/end point: the town centre of Korčula (or the location of your accommodation) Towns and villages on route: Korčula – Medvinjak – Žrnovska Banja – Kneže – Račišće – Babina – Prigradica – Bristva – Črnja Luka – Vela Luka – Potirna – Zaglav – Karbuni – Grščica – Prižba – Brna – Smokvica – Zavalatica – Čara – above Pupnatska Luka – Pupnat – Postrana – Lumbarda – Korčula Expected duration: a one-day tour for physically fit cyclists Note: a multi-day tour is also possible Markings: none (GPX file available for DOWNLOAD ) Locations of self-service bike repair stations with a fixed stand and basic tools: Babina bay, archaeological site Vela spila in Vela Luka, Morkan-Blato-Smokvica T intersection, above Pupnatska Luka, rest area between the village of Lumbarda and the town of Korčula.

About the route: This route starts at Trg Pomirenja square in the centre of the town of Korčula, passes through the settlements of Medvinjak, Žrnovska Banja and Kneže and takes you to Račišće, a village some 12 km from Korčula. From there, it follows the coast along a demanding gravel road section (9.2 km) to Babina. The gravel road, partially interrupted with paved road sections, is damaged on certain steep slopes (where caution is required when riding). The last gravel road ascent before the village of Babina is especially steep and demanding. From Babina, the route follows a paved road along the bays of Rasoha, Blaca and Žukova all the way to Prigradica. From Prigradica bay, it continues along the coast to Bristve, which todays serves as a slipway for the shipyard of Radež, until the bay of Črnja Luka. Leaving the coast behind, the route will take you on a gradual climb to the most important archaeological site at the Mediterranean know as Vela spila, a system of caves more than 20,000 years old. It then continues downhill along a gravel road, which later turns into an asphalt road, and enters Vela Luka from the north. Following Vela Luka bay, the route will take you to the bays of Poplat, Gabrica, Pičena and Lučica where, after a few gravel road sections, it turns into an asphalt road. The road ascends towards the pass below Hum hill (380 m) where an Austro-Hungarian fort is located and descends towards Potirna, from where a gravel road will take you to Zaglav bay. From there, the route follows the coast again and offers stunning views of the island of Lastovo and numerous islets, with Zvirinovik located just across the settlement of Karbuni being the largest among them. A gravel road with 3.4 km in length will take you from Karbuni to the bay of Gršćica, and then along the coast through the village of Prižba, nestled between the two peninsulas, Ratak and Prišćapac, to the bay and village of Brna, followed by an ascent to the fertile and wine-growing region known as the cradle of pošip wine variety – the village of Smokvica. Just before entering the village, you can either continue straight down the road toward the centre of the village, home to the parish Church of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a loggia or continue following the route by taking the right turn south of the village through the field of Prapratna. From the village of Smokvica, through the field of Prapratna, where the remains of Kanavelić tower and the Church of St Ann (14th century) are located, the route takes you on a descent down the moderately preserved gravel road (1.5 km in length) to the bay and the village of Zavalatica.

It is possible to get off the route after the field of Prapratna in the direction of Pinćaluša – a monument to pošip grape variety (a 1.3 km ascent on a paved road). From Zavalatica, the route follows a steep uphill asphalt road, which later turns into a picturesque road through the fertile and wine-growing field in the direction of the village of Čara, passing by the largest island sanctuary i.e. the Church of Our Lady in the Field (14th century) and, through vineyards and pine forests, reaching the bay of Pupnatska Luka. Next is a 7-kilometre long road ascent in the direction of the village of Pupnat that will take you just below the huge, impressive stone formation of Riče. The route turns right off the D118 road (after 1.5 km) after Pupnat towards Bačva bay. The condition of the gravel road surface on this part of the route (in the direction of Bačva bay) until the hamlet of Postrana in Žrnovo varies from preserved to moderately preserved followed by a 400-metre steep concrete road section until Konoba Maha (6.8 km). The condition of the gravel road surface in the area between the turn for Rasohatica bay until the road exit next to the Kokojevica landfill is preserved to moderately preserved (2.8 km). From there, the route takes you to the easternmost point of the route, the village of Lumbarda and the famous Pržina beach. It follows the road through vineyards, passes by the Church of the Holy Cross located in the centre of the roundabout and continues all the way to the centre of the town. It turns right from the Lumbarda-Korčula main road and continues through the karst field of Donje blato (gravel road with 2.6 km in length), the pine forest and dry stone walls. From there, it follows the road next to the lookout point of the Votive Chapel of St Anthony, locally known as Glavica, featuring row of cypress trees, and then, along Šetalište Tina Ujevića promenade, below the Hober forest part, returns to its starting point in the centre of the town of Korčula. Congratulations! You have joined one of the million explorers of the island of Korčula, inspired by the most famous western explorer who travelled the Silk Road from Europe to China and wrote the famous travelogue The Travels of Marco Polo. Who knows, maybe you will write a book about your own Korčula explorations! Emergency contacts: In case of emergency call 112 . Tourist Boards: Town of Korčula: +385 20 715 701 Municipality of Lumbarda: +385 20 712 005 Municipality of Smokvica: +385 20 832 255 Municipality of Blato: +385 20 851 850 Municipality of Vela Luka: +385 20 813 619

RIDING IN THE SHADE OF PINE, CYPRESS AND OLIVE TREES ALL THE WAY TO THE EASTERNMOST POINT OF THE ISLAND Technical specification: Length: a 22.4-kilometre circular route Terrain: 17.4 km of asphalt roads (78%); 5 km of gravel roads (22%) Altitude: 350 m Start point/end point: centre of the town of Korčula Towns and villages on route: Prvo selo – Žrnovo – Kampuš – Postrana – Lumbarda - Korčula Expected duration: 2 hours 30 minutes Difficulty: 2/5 Note: The section between Potirna and Zaglav features a slightly more demanding gravel road passing through forests and dry stone walls (3.3 km in length). Markings: none (GPX file available for DOWNLOAD ) Locations of self-service bike repair stations with a fixed stand and basic tools: rest area at Korčula – Lumbarda road.

Starting in the centre of the town of Korčula, this circular route will take you on a journey along winding scenic areas of the village of Žrnovo and its hamlets Prvo selo, Kampuš and Postrana. It features interesting detours for exploring natural and historical sites, lighthouses and beaches, forts and churches with spectacular views of the surrounding area and it offers some quality R & R in local family farms and coffee shops in the centre of villages. The last section of the route offers a pleasant downhill ride through stunning olive groves, wine-growing hillsides and the field of Lumbarda famous for its numerous stone fences i.e. dry stone walls and sandy beaches only to return, through the karst field of Donje blato and pine forests, following the coastal promenade, to the historic, artistic and architectural gem of the island, the town of Korčula. About the route: Starting at Trg Pomirenja square in Korčula, immediately after passing the coastal streets of Put Svetog Nikole and Strečica, the route turns sharply to the left and continues along the uphill forested, scenic road below the Forteca fort, which features breath-taking views of the old town of Korčula. The route continues until the intersection with the main road D118 and after 400 m, it turns right onto the remains of the marked Marmont Path and passes through Prvo selo, Žrnovo, Kampuš and Postrana which safeguard numerous valuable natural, cultural and historical heritage, especially religious buildings.

In the hamlet of Postrana the route follows a well preserved and moderately preserved gravel road (approx. 2.8 km) in the direction of Rasohatica bay and Lumbarda. It passes through vineyards and olive groves, switching between asphalt and gravel roads, and takes you to Lumbarda and the sandy beach of Pržina, with stunning views of open seas and the island of Mljet. We suggest you get off the route and head towards the lighthouse on Ražnjić cape (1.2 km), the easternmost point of the island with stunning views of the imposing Sveti Ilija (961 m), the highest peak of the Pelješac peninsula. From there, the route continues through vineyards, passing by the Church of the Holy Cross in the centre of the roundabout, and soon afterwards it provides a detour towards the parish Church of St Rocco and the centre of the village. Leaving Lumbarda, the route turns right from the asphalt road into a gravel road through the karst field of Donje blato. It continues through the pine forest and dry stone walls, passes by the lookout point of the Votive Chapel of St Anthony, locally known as Glavica, featuring a row of cypress trees, and then, along Šetalište Tina Ujevića promenade, below the Hober forest part, returns to its starting point in the centre of the town of Korčula. Emergency contacts: In case of emergency call 112 . Tourist Boards: Town of Korčula: +385 20 715 701 Municipality of Lumbarda: +385 20 712 005

WHERE THE COASTAL AND HINTERLAND SCENERY OF THE PICTURESQUE ISLAND OF KORČULA INTERTWINE Technical specification: Length: a 61.1-kilometre circular route Terrain: 51.9 km of asphalt roads (85%), 9.2 km of gravel roads (15%) Altitude: 880 m Start point/end point: the promenade in the centre of Prigradica Towns and villages on route: Prigradica-Blato-Smokvica-Čara-Pupnat-Kneže-Račišće-Babina-Prigradica Expected duration: 6 hours Difficulty: 5/5 Note: The section between Potirna and Zaglav features a slightly more demanding gravel road passing through forests and dry stone walls (3.3 km in length). Markings: none (GPX file available for DOWNLOAD ) Note: Due to a narrow winding road with an extremely steep downhill, the Pupnat - Kneže (5 km) section requires additional caution, while the 9.2-kilometre Račišće – Babina section features a gravel road with several shorter, but steeper ascents and descents. Locations of self-service bike repair stations with a fixed stand and basic tools: Babina Bay, Morkan-Blato-Smokvica T-intersection and a spot above Pupnatska Luka..

Starting in Prigradica bay, this circular route will take you along the road from the promenade towards Blato, a village in the hinterland of the island that features a vast field and the famous dry stone wall terraces. From there, it continues to Smokvica and Čara, often regarded as the homeland of pošip grape variety. The route climbs the road above the bay and beach of Pupnatska Luka all the way to Pupnat, the smallest and one of the oldest settlements on the island. Returning to the northern coastal part of the island along the steep descent on a winding road to the bay and village of Kneže, the route continues along the coast to the village of Račišće, where it follows the gravel road next to beaches of Vaja and Samograd all the way to Babina bay. From there, it takes an asphalt road passing by picturesque and peaceful bays of Rasoha and Blaca and ends in Prigradica. About the route: Starting in Prigradica, the route winds along the coast and immediately continues up the uphill road towards Blato. After the pass, the road descents and crosses the busy D118 road via an overpass next to the Blato Cemetery of the Holy Cross and through two roundabouts before taking the winding ascent in Prižba direction. We recommend you get off the route and follow the famous Zlinje Street, featuring a linden tree avenue, which will take you to the centre of Blato and visit the spacious square in front of the parish Church of All Saints with a loggia. The route continues up the uphill road in Prižbe direction, turns left off the main road at the third large bend and takes you to the pass which marks the beginning of a descent along the olive groves and vineyards all the way to the entrance of Smokvica, the cradle of the famous white wine variety pošip.

In addition to numerous wine tasting rooms, don’t miss out on the parish Church of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary (17th century). Passing through the fertile fields of Smokvica and Čara, the route takes you to the centre of the village of Čara where a cypress tree, a protected natural monument believed to be over 350 years old, can be found next to the parish Church of St Peter (17th century). Visiting wineries with tasting rooms serving quality and top wines, with pošip being the featured wine in Čara, is a must. The route continues through vineyards, olive groves and pine forests passing the bay of Pupnatska Luka and large rock formation of Riče and after a 7-kilometre ascent enters the village of Pupnat, home to the parish Church of Our Lady of the Snows from the 17th century. Moving on, a narrow, steep and winding road takes you to the village of Kneže and from there the route continues along the coast to Račišće. It passes through the picturesque fishing and maritime village, next to the parish Church of St Nicholas (20th century), the patron saint of sailors, and the older Church of Our Lady Help of Christians (from the end of the 17th century). From there, a more demanding but tranquil gravel road offering panoramic views of the islands and the open sea will take you to Babina bay, Rasoha bay and the village of Blaca and end in Prigradica. Emergency contacts: In case of emergency call 112 . Tourist boards: Municipality of Blato: +385 20 851 850 Municipality of Smokvica: +385 20 832 255 Town of Korčula: +385 20 715 701

FROM BLATO FIELD TO VELA LUKA BAY AND THE INDENTED SOUTHERN COAST OF THE ISLAND OF KORČULA Technical specification: Length: a 48.1-kilometre circular cycling route Terrain: 32.3 km of asphalt roads (67%), 15.8 km of gravel roads (32%) Altitude: 870 m Start point/end point: the centre of the town of Blato Towns and villages on route: Blato - Črnja Luka - Vela Luka – Zaglav - Karbuni – Gršćica - Prižba – Blato Expected duration: 4-5 hours Difficulty: 5/5 Note: The section between Potirna and Zaglav features a slightly more demanding gravel road passing through forests and dry stone walls (3.3 km in length). Markings: none (GPX file available for DOWNLOAD ) Locations of self-service bike repair stations with a fixed stand and basic tools: archaeological site of Vela spila and Morkan-Blato-Smokvica T-intersection.

This route starts in the village of Blato. Stretches of ascents and fields, extremely indented southern coast with numerous islets and the peninsulas of Ratak and Prišćipac abound along this route. What makes this route special are the views of small rocky and forested islets surrounding Vela Luka. The fantastic scenery consisting of a plethora of smaller and larger bays of the indented coast, dotted with vineyards, olive groves and fragrant pine forests along the flatter terrain of the southern coast of the island of Korčula protected by a string of islets from Zaglav to Prižba make it a great ride for all cycling enthusiasts. What are you waiting for? Embark on a journey where natural attractions meets tradition, customs, flavours and scents of the island. About the route: Starting in the centre of Blato, a village located in the heart of the largest fertile field on the island of Korčula, this circular route takes you in the direction of Prigradica on the northern side of the island. After Blato, the route briefly follows the state road D118 (700 m in length), after which it turns right and follows the uphill road to a pass from where it continues downhill towards the villages of Bristva and Črnja Luka. Before Bristva, the route takes a left turn to Črnja Luka bay from where it continues along the coastal gravel road. The condition of the gravel road surface ranges from preserved to moderately preserved and is occasionally interrupted with asphalt and concrete sections (8.1 km).

The route will take you to the town of Vela Luka passing next to the renowned archaeological site on the island known as Vela spila. The route continues to the centre of Vela Luka, first along the preserved gravel road (1.0 km in length) and then down a winding and narrow stretch where caution is required. After Vela Luka, the route continues in the direction of the southern part of the island along the busy 41st Street from which it takes a left turn towards Potirna and, after the ascent, a left turn on the gravel road north of Zaglav bay. This moderately preserved gravel road will reward you with a 3.3 kilometre downhill slope to Zaglav bay. From there, the route continues along the coast where asphalt and gravel road sections interchange. The preserved gravel road of Karbuni – Gršćica section features a pleasant ride in the shade of pine forests. Once you pass through the village of Gršćica, the route takes you to the hamlet of Prižba on the peninsula of Ratak and offers amazing views of the string of islets all the way to the peninsula of Prišćipac. In Prižba, the route splits into two different sections. If you choose the section heading left, the route continues uphill towards Blato through picturesque olive groves and vineyards of the Morkan area, followed by a 7-kilometre demanding ascent until T intersection from where a descent to the left towards Blato begins, which marks the end of our route. If you choose the section heading right, you will arrive at the village of Smokvica. Emergency contact: In case of emergency call 112. Tourist boards: Municipality of Blato: +385 20 851 850 Municipality of Vela Luka: +385 20 813 619

SPLIT-POTOMJE FROM DIOCLETIAN TO MARCO POLO This alternative 47-km-long section will challenge you to go on a bicycle ride across the entire island of Korčula from west to east on local roads with many elevations and descents. Visit web site

HAVE A FUN AND ENJOY IN CYCLING

KORČULA BIKE ROUTES INTERACTIVE MAP

Explore island bike routes.

Exploring island of Korčula on a bicycle is a unique experience. The island is full of hilly roads that curve in different landscapes of Vela Luka surroundings, as well as on the rest of the island. Bear in mind that these cycling routes are not meant for bicycles only. A network of side roads, gravel roads and trails is used by others – cars on the road, agricultural workers on gravel roads and hikers on hiking trails. Therefore, we ask you to keep safe and respect other participants in traffic. We have chosen four routes for you that will allow you to explore in detail the west side of the island.

brna-smokvica

Around Brna you will find many hiking and cycling routes that will take you through picturesque countryside, pine forests, olive groves and vineyards to views, caves and beautiful bays.

Lumbarda offers you the perfect opportunity for an active vacation. Among the many activities you can choose cycling along beautiful nature trails.

worth to cycle

Explore our beautiful and romantic island and its coves extending along the north coast as far as Račišće, a picturesque resort with a centuries-old maritime tradition; and don't miss the fascinating settlements at the heart of the island: Žrnovo, Pupnat and Čara. From Zrnovo, the birthplace of our well-known writer Petar Šegedin, head South to reach cosy coves with gravel beaches, surrounded by fragrant Mediterranean vegetation. Walking on the paths through the olive groves or by the sea, you can taste, in local houses and taverns, various kinds of olive oil, honey and other ecological products. The fertile plain, Čarsko Polje, is the home of the best Pošip, a well-known white wine, which you can taste in one of Čara wineries. From the smallest settlement of the island, Pupnat, you can reach by coast road towards Čara, the biggest pebble beach on the island called Pupnatska Luka.