We fell in love with Croatia. After visiting many nearby countries, I have no idea why we didn’t visit earlier. I mean it when I say that Croatia should be on everyone’s bucket list. From incredible experiences in Dubrovnik to the amazing hotels in Korcula, plus so much more. There is a fantastic itinerary of things to do in Korcula waiting for you in this area of the Adriatic Sea. 

If you want to see a very small European town, the old town of Korčula, Croatia is the place to go. Before we arrived, we were told that you could walk the entire city in under 5 minutes, we thought this could be an exaggeration…it wasn’t. However, a smaller city does not mean anything when it comes to charm and character. We had a wonderful time visiting this beautiful town and I hope you are able to have a similar experience! 

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Korcula island is a gem among Croatia’s many stunning islands, known for its medieval charm, sparkling turquoise waters, and vibrant history. Whether you’re looking to relax on beautiful beaches, explore ancient towns, or experience authentic Croatian culture, Korčula is an island that has it all. Here’s everything you need to know about planning a trip to this magical destination.

Getting to Korčula

While there are multiple ways listed to make your way to Korcula, all roads lead to a ferry- which is a beautiful experience! 

Cruising In: Korcula is also a popular cruise port, so you may have the chance to see the beautiful town while stopping by for a day. 

By Ferry: The most common way to reach Korčula is by ferry. Korčula is accessible from major Croatian ports like Split and Dubrovnik. During the summer months, ferry operators, such as Jadrolinija and Krilo, run frequent high-speed and car ferry services that can get you to the island in just a few hours.

By Catamaran: From the town of Split, Dubrovnik dock, or nearby Hvar, you can also take a catamaran for a faster trip. Catamarans are often used by travelers without cars, as they provide a quicker route but have limited luggage allowances. It’s also an amazing excursion option to see the shore of the Adriatic Sea from another view point. 

Driving and Ferrying: If you’re exploring Croatia by car, you can drive to Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula and take a short car ferry over to Korčula town. The drive through Pelješac is scenic, offering views of vineyards, hills, and coastal landscapes.

Where to Stay on Korčula

Korčula offers a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and modern hotel options or vacation rentals.

• Korčula Old Town: If you’re interested in history and convenience, stay in Korčula Old Town. You’ll be steps away from charming medieval streets, iconic landmarks, and bustling restaurants.
  • Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel is a popular choice, with its prime waterfront location and elegant rooms offering sea beautiful views. Providing a short walk to many popular attractions like the old cathedral, the lovely G & T Lounge Bar, 
  • Hotel Korsal is a less than 10-minute walk from Old Town, within a pedestrian zone (car-free), and offers amenities like free breakfast, a lovely outdoor sun terrace, water sports, and air-conditioned rooms. Many rooms with beautiful balconies.  
  • Marko Polo Hotel offers beautiful hotel rooms of many sizes, is a short 5-minute walk from the centre of Korčula, with a stunning outdoor pool, tennis courts, and a beautiful wellness spa. I highly recommend taking advantage of the provided water sports as well! 
  • Tara’s Lodge is the perfect place if you want a resort experience while being close enough to Korcula’s old town. They offer beach access, bicycle rentals, an onsite restaurant, games, water sports, free parking, and much more. 
  • Aminess Port 9 Resort is a bit further outside of the historic centre, but it’s worth the short drive. The views of the port, the access to beautiful beaches, and the great amenities are amazing. 
• Lumbarda: For a more laid-back vibe, consider staying in Lumbarda, a small village about 10 minutes from Korčula Town. Known for its sandy beaches and Grk wine (unique to the area), it’s perfect for beach lovers and wine enthusiasts. The water taxis are a great way to get around in the area.
  • Hotel Lumbarda has a stunning view, free breakfast, airconditioning in each room, a swimming pool, free bicycle rentals and is local to the marina. 
  • Guest House Lovric include double rooms and muti-bedroom accommodations with a living room, most have lovely outdoor terraces with a seating area. The location is near the waterfront, each room includes free wi-fi and offer various activities in the area. 
• Vela Luka: On the opposite side of the island, Vela Luka is a charming fishing town with a slower pace. It’s ideal for those looking to relax and enjoy more secluded beaches.
  • Hotel Korkyra is a popular accommodation here, offering modern amenities and beautiful poolside lounging. This is one of the best hotels in the area. It’s beautiful and family-friendly and includes free breakfast and an a la-carte restaurant for the remainder of the day. 
  • Hotel Dalmacija Vela Luka offers rooms with amazing views from each balcony, good room prices for the accommodation experience, and is nearby water access.  

Top Things To Do In Korcula

1. Explore Korčula Old Town: Korčula Old Town, sometimes referred to as “Little Dubrovnik” for its medieval walls and narrow alleys, is a must-visit. Wander the cobblestone streets, marvel at the Gothic-Renaissance architecture, and visit St. Mark’s Cathedral. Be sure to climb the bell tower for breathtaking views of the Adriatic.
2. Rent Bikes: We opted to rent bikes as soon as we got to the island and loved this option! We were able to explore nearby areas and really see more of the island at our own pace. We asked where we could explore for a few hours before coming back to see the town. There were several beaches recommended to us, and we aren’t the ones to turn down some sunbathing. Off we went through some very hilly streets thankfully they weren’t very busy, and I could take my time (as Dave flew past me). As we passed a beautiful hotel (which we later found out is called Marko Polo, see more above) we could see a sandy beach in the distance that was getting busy, so that is where we decided to park our bikes and take a dip. There were so many children playing ball, adults tossing around a volleyball, and other just floating around. This way of life was so appealing to me. A little further out was a tiny island and there were several people scuba diving around it. Next trip to Europe I need to being some snorkeling gear! 
3. Buggie Tour with Wine Tasting: The Korčula Buggy Safari tour offers an ultimate off-road adventure. Get ready for an unforgettable experience as you discover the hidden gems and rugged terrains of Korčula island.
4. Wine Tasting in Lumbarda: Korčula is known for its local Grk and Plavac Mali wines, both of which are grown in the Lumbarda region. Many family-owned wineries offer tastings and tours. Bire Winery is a top choice, providing intimate vineyard tours and tastings of their celebrated wines.
5. Relax on the Beaches: Korčula has stunning beaches perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Vela Przina in Lumbarda is a popular sandy beach, while Pupnatska Luka is a pebble beach tucked away in a picturesque cove with crystal-clear water. Both are family-friendly and offer a quintessential beach experience.
6. Go Island Hopping: Enjoy a ticket that allows you to visit three different islands in Korčula. Starting from Korčula, your ticket is valid for the entire day, allowing you to hop on and hop off as many times as you want. 
7. Visit the Marco Polo Museum: Legend has it that the famous explorer Marco Polo was born in Korčula. The Marco Polo Museum offers interactive exhibits on his life and travels, making it a fun and educational stop, especially if you’re traveling with children.
8. Plan for a Boat Excursion: Korčula’s coastline and surrounding areas are best explored by boat. Many local operators offer boat tours to nearby islets like Proizd, Badija, and Vrnik. Proizd, in particular, is known for its untouched beauty and secluded beaches.
9. Try Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine: No trip to Korčula is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Try peka (meat or seafood cooked under a bell-like lid), grilled fresh fish, and homemade pasta dishes like makaruni. Restaurants like Konoba Mareta and Filippi offer authentic Dalmatian dishes with sea views.

Best Time to Visit Korčula Island

The best time to visit Korčula is between May and September when the weather is warm and dry, perfect for beach days and boat trips. July and August are peak tourist months, with the liveliest atmosphere and plenty of festivals, but if you prefer a quieter experience, May, June, and September offer lovely weather and fewer crowds. 

It’s also a beautiful destination for travelers looking for Christmas Markets in November and December. Many Croatian towns will have their own markets, including the island of Korčula.  

Additional Tips for Your Visit

• Transportation: Korčula is compact and walkable in many areas, but renting a bike or scooter is a convenient way to explore. Car rentals are available but can be challenging due to limited parking, especially in Korčula Town.
• Currency: Croatia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, and most businesses accept cards, though it’s handy to carry cash for smaller vendors. Prior to 2023, the Kuna was the standard currency. 
• Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Korčula, with its mix of historic charm, stunning beaches, and welcoming locals, is an island that captivates visitors and offers a quintessential taste of the Adriatic lifestyle. Whether you’re visiting for the culture, the beaches, or simply to unwind, Korčula’s beauty and charm will make you want to return again and again.