When meeting travelers who had been to the Croatian islands we would always ask the same question. If we can only visit one island, where should we go? Surprisingly we kept hearing about an island that had been generally off our radar until we arrived in Croatia. When we heard its description as a mini and unspoiled Dubrovnik, we knew that we had to discover Korcula Croatia for ourselves. So what did we find on Korcula island? Well, a little of everything! Stunning Korcula beaches that overlooked the old town, delicious seafood, plenty of history, amazing Korcula wine, and so much more!
Croatia Travel Inspiration
- 5 Best Islands in Southern Croatia: Ferry Info, Tips, & Route Guide
- 15 Helpful Tips for Your First Visit to Historic Dubrovnik Croatia
- One Perfect Day Exploring the Famous Port of Hvar Croatia
- 16 Fun Tips for Visiting the Island of Mali Losinj Croatia
- Top 5 Stunning Beaches in Bol Croatia for Every Type of Traveler
How to Get To and From Korcula Croatia
- The most common route is to travel from Dubrovnik to Korcula which takes about 2 hours by ferry.
- You can also start in Split and travel south on the ferry passing Bol and Hvar before arriving in Korcula.
- Ferry tickets sell out quickly. If you wait to buy them day of, or even the day before it might be too late. We learned this one the hard way ourselves.
- When leaving Korcula island there are two ferry docks. However, it isn’t until that day that you’re told where the ferry is arriving! They are both on opposite sides of Korcula old town and about a 7 minute walk apart. Obviously, this is not the best system so show up to one of the ports early. This way if there are no other people around it’s probably best to hightail it to the other side of old town.
- If the ferry is sold out and you need to make it to Dubrovnik on a certain day, there is also a bus. The bus leaves at 6:30am and are cheaper than the ferry, but takes around 5 hours.
History of Korcula Croatia
Korcula island has been inhabited for centuries, and its culture and history can be seen everywhere you look. In fact, this part of Dalmatia has been ruled over by everyone from the Greeks to the Ottomans, with many battles taking place along its shores. Evidence of this is seen as soon as you pull up to the Korcula beaches, as the main part of town is protected by massive fortress walls.
Huge cannons sit proudly atop the town facing out onto the water where they were once used to repel enemy defenders. For years, shipyards and stone masonry were at the center of the Korcula economy. It wasn’t until the early 1960’s when mass tourism expanded, and hotels and waterfront restaurants began to dot the coast.
Korcula Town: This is where the ferry from Dubrovnik to Korcula (and other Croatian Islands) arrives, and where the old town is located. The town is relatively small compared to the size of the entire island.
Korcula Island: Referring to the rest of the island mass. Honestly, Korcula island is quite large so it could take multiple days of exploring to see it all.
Korcula Old Town
There is no arguing that Korcula old town is the heart of Korcula island. Dubbed as a mini-Dubrovnik, thick walls grow up from the water and surround the town in almost a perfect circle.
To enter you must pass through a massive gate that leads into the winding small back streets. It is hard to walk through Korcula old town and not imagine what life was like hundreds of years ago in Croatia!
Marco Polo
There has been a long heated debate raging on between Korcula, and the city of Venice, Italy. Both have claimed that the famous explorer Marco Polo was born in their city, and use it to fuel tourism.
When exploring Korcula old town you’ll notice the Marco Polo theme that has spread throughout the area. Korcula has everything from a Marco Polo museum to his supposed childhood home, and even restaurants bearing his name.
Beaches Overlooking Old Town
The beach in Korcula town is small, and could even potentially be overlooked if you weren’t searching for it. Nevertheless, this small unassuming beach turned out to be one of our favorites in all of Croatia! The small Korcula beaches can be found just outside the port, and are made up completely of small pebbles.
Once you make it down the coast a bit the view is absolutely stunning! Small docks stick out where you can sit and have a great view of old town. These Korcula beaches are the perfect place to cool down and take in the beauty of the clear water and architecture.
Vela Przina Beach
Known as one of the few sandy beaches in all of Croatia, Vela Przina Beach is quite the draw for locals and tourists alike. After traveling through Croatia for three weeks we had become so accustomed to rocky beaches that the sand was actually strange at first.
Its shallow water allows you to walk far out into the ocean and admire the Croatian coast. There are two small restaurants here for you to sample some Korcula wine and have a snack.
Bike Korcula Island
The best and most popular way to get around the island is actually by bicycle. Fortunately, in Korcula town almost every information center also doubles as a bike rental.
Heading out of town the roads along the water are relatively flat. Our recommendation would be to visit Lumbarda for the day. There you can swim on its famous sandy beach and cycle through the endless rows of grapes.
Another fun way to see Korcula is on a buggy safari tour. Korcula Buggy is run by a nice couple with years of experience on the island. They will take you to all the best spots in their all-terrain vehicles, and you’ll even get to taste some local specialties and wine!
Visit a Winery
Korcula wine is no joking matter on the island, and something the locals are very proud of. Local Korcula wine is called “Grk” and is named after the type of grape.
Luckily every restaurant on the island carries the local drink! If you’re looking for the best experience we recommend traveling right to the source. Fittingly named Winery Grk, this was our favorite place for a tasting and views of the Korcula wine country.
If you’ve ever visited Korcula Island let us know what your favorite thing to do is! Otherwise, if you have any questions about our post let us know in the comments below.
Safe Travels,
Brigitte & Jake
Where in the world are we? Follow our daily adventures on Instagram @nothingfamiliar!
Where To Stay In Korcula Croatia
Ultra Luxury –Lesic Dimitri Palace – In the heart of Korcula old town and just steps from Marco Polo’s home, you will find complete bliss while still right in all the action.
Fun Vacation – Guest House Holiday – This private holiday home is right beside one of our favorite Korcula beaches, and minutes from old town. Enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from your window as beautiful boats sail by.
Budget Travel – Apartments Neno – We had an incredible stay at Apartments Neno. It’s only 5 minute walk from old town, and you’ll get an awesome view of the sunset from your balcony for a fair price.
For more places to stay in Korcula Croatia you can explore the latest prices here!
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Croatia Travel Planning
Croatia Guides: Dubrovnik City Walls – 15 Bol Tips – Golden Horn Beach – Mali Losinj by Scooter – 13 Hvar Tips – Dubrovnik to Montenegro
Tours: Check out Get Your Guide for hundreds of activities around the country. You can book a blue cave 5 islands tour from Split, go sea kayaking in Dubrovnik, or take a day trip to the famous Krka National Park.
Flights: We always find great flight deals using Skyscanner and Kayak. This way you can plan your trip around the cheapest and most direct routes.
Accommodation: Compare multiple sites to get to the best deal such as Booking.com and Agoda! Also, Hostelworld should be your go-to source if you’re traveling on a budget.
Rental Car: We use Discover Cars to rent vehicles on our travels. In Croatia, you can even take your car on the ferries so you have wheels for the different islands!
Travel Insurance: Never travel abroad without being covered! We’ve been using SafetyWing for the last few years on the road and they are there when we need them.
Packing Lists: Find all the inspiration you need with our Amazon packing lists. Including our electronics and camera gear, must-have medical items, and long flight essentials!
Korcula is a hidden gem in Croatia, and this blog post uncovers its charms. It explores the island’s unique attractions, making it an informative read for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Such a hidden gem! Thanks for reading (-:
Those interested in Korcula and its history should grab a copy of my book, Island at the Edge of War, set against the backdrop of a 16th century Ottoman attack on Korcula Town. It’s available in hardback and paperback on Amazon and wide range of ebook channels,
Will definitely check this out Roger
As per national park tours agency in Mljet, Croatia, the Korcula is emerging for one the most visited placed in Croatia, because of its beautiful beaches and place which suits the outsiders. It is totally safe and considerably cheaper as well that make rise of tourists in last few years.
We’d love to visit Mljet on our next trip to Croatia! Thanks for the info ( :