The ultimate travel guide to Korčula Town, Croatia
Aleppo pines, olive groves, and vineyards make Korčula one of Croatia’s greenest islands. A destination where the walled settlement of Korčula Town is a charming yet compact reminder of the island’s history, terraced laneways meet at the centre point. A quaint square in the shadow of the bell tower that rises above the red-roofed homes overlooking panoramic views of the Pelješac Peninsula is one of Croatia's best destinations.
Your Korčula Town destination guide
Korčula Town (pronounced kaw-choo-luh) is the beating heart of Croatia’s sixth-largest island, a walled old town flanked by sparkling sea and dominating the 2km wide Pelješac channel. Still one of Croatia’s up-and-coming holiday spots now is the time to visit before the crowds descend.
Surrounded by dense pine forests and verdant vineyards, Korčula is much greener than many of Croatia’s more arid islands. The beauty of Korčula Town has been preserved in the walled city’s foliage-filled laneways where laundry ripples overhead from window-strung lines.
One of the first towns in the Adriatic to fall to the Venetians, their influence can be seen deeply ingrained in the culture and architecture of modern-day Korčula. Following eight centuries of occupation, much to the contempt of Dubrovnik, Korčula began welcoming tourists in the 1920s and has continued its sophisticated journey to this day.
Claimed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, tradition is now best exhibited through displays of folk music, dancing, and sword fight displays that fill the central square during the weekly performances.
A rich wine-producing region of Croatia, Korčula is a favourite with Oenophiles who can enjoy indigenous grape varieties including grk from Lumbarda and pošip from the vineyards in nearby Čara and Smokvica.
To make the most of your time in Korčula Town, read on to discover everything you need to know from where to stay, eat and drink, to what to see and do to make the most of your time on this alluring island in southern Dalmatia.
Where is Korcula?
Korčula is located in central Dalmatia on the southern coast of Croatia roughly midway between Split and Dubrovnik. On the sixth-largest Croatian island, Korčula Town is situated opposite the Pelješac (pronounced pell-eh-shatz) peninsula along the Adriatic coastline opposite Orebić on the mainland.
How long should you spend in Korčula Town, Croatia?
Korčula Town is beautiful yet compact. How long you should spend here really depends on how much you want to do and see. Many visitors will pass by on a day trip either from the mainland or as part of an island-hopping tour of Croatia. However, to truly soak up everything Korčula Town has to offer rather than rushing through it, I would suggest at least four days.
As one of Croatia’s larger islands, if you plan on exploring more of Korčula you could easily spend at least a week here. Though, as most travellers are hoping to see more of the islands and popular mainland destinations including Dubrovnik and Split, I would recommend no less than two days to enjoy at last the highlights Korčula has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Korčula?
The Croatian islands are the perfect sunny escape for most of the year. In my opinion, the best time of year to visit Korčula is in the shoulder seasons of spring and late summer/early autumn. Travelling from April-June and September-October will mean you avoid the peak summer crowds, giving you more space to enjoy Korčula Town.
When it comes to the weather, if you’re looking for hot weather then June and September are the best months and make for great beach days as the water is also warmer at this time of year. Korčula experiences hot, dry summers and cooler winters.
Accommodation is also cheaper outside the peak summer season, making for a more cost-effective trip. Not only will you have lower rates than in the peak season, but you’ll also have more choices that fit within your budget - it’s a win-win!
You will find that many of the restaurants and hotels will be closed during the winter months, limiting your options considerably.
How to get to Korčula
The closest airport to Korčula is Dubrovnik in southern Dalmatia. With connections to Dubrovnik from many European airports, there are also a selection of direct flights from the US now operating too during the summer months. You can find the best routes and prices for flights from your local airport using Skyscanner.
If you’re already in Croatia, ferry is my top choice for getting around, and one of your only options for many of the journeys between island destinations. I’ve outlined some of the key routes used to reach Korčula below:
Korčula from Dubrovnik
Three main catamaran routes service the journey from Dubrovnik to Korčula; Jadrolinja, Kapetan Luka, and TP Line. Most services take between 1 hour and 45 minutes to two hours.
Can you drive from Dubrovnik to Korčula? In short, no. Instead, you will need to make your way to Orebic further north along the Dalmatian coast and catch the train ferry from there, instructions for this route are listed below. You can find times for the foot passenger catamaran from Dubrovnik to Korčula here.
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Korčula from Split
If you’re travelling from Split to Korčula, there are options for both car ferries and pedestrian catamaran services.
Split to Korčula by car ferry
If you are planning on travelling with a vehicle around the islands, you’ll need to use a car ferry service. There is one route operated by Jadrolinja from Split to Korčula taking around 3 hours and 30 minutes. The service sails between Split and Vela Luka on the western side of Korčula island with journeys operating twice daily during summer, and twice daily excluding weekends in the off-season. You can find the timetable here.
Split to Korčula by pedestrian catamaran
Catamaran services between Split and Korčula are faster than the car ferries, with the fastest journey taking just one hour and 45 minutes, the longest up to 3 hours and 15 minutes. There are two companies operating this route, Jadrolinja and Kapetan Luka. There are services to both Vela Luka and Korčula Town, with many of them stopping at other ports along the way including the islands of Brač, Hvar, and Mljet before reaching Dubrovnik. You can find timetables from Split to Korčula here.
Korčula from Orebic
Korčula island is just a short distance from the Croatian mainland, only around 3.5km in fact. If you are travelling with a car, then you’ll need to make your way to Orebic and catch the car ferry from there. Jadrolinja operates the car ferry service from Orebic to Dormice which is a small suburb on the edge of Korčula Town. The journey only takes around 30 minutes and operates hourly throughout the day, even during the off-season. You can find the timetable here.
If you’re travelling on foot, there is a summer service operated for pedestrians which operates very frequently, you can find the timetable here.
Where to stay in Korčula Town
Korčula Town is a fortressed old town characterised by beautiful stone facades and streets weaving through the historic centre. This means that a lot of the accommodation in the heart of the Old Town are apartments operated by private hosts. However, there are several hotels within walking distance of the Old Town (and even one in it, which I recommend below) if you prefer hotel accommodation. Read on to find out some of the best places to stay in Korčula Town for every budget.
Apartments Sunny Town | Just moments from the beach and hive of activity that the old town is loved for, this studio apartment is the perfect budget-friendly place to stay. With views of the Old Town and kitchenette and dining space, you have everything you could want and need in this cosy space.
Marko Polo Hotel by Aminess | Walking distance to both the beach and the old town, this mid-tier hotel benefits from a comfortable stay, outdoor pools, and views overlooking Korčula Old Town. If you’re looking for something affordable, close to the old town and with everything you need that won’t break the bank, this hotel has you covered.
Hotel Korsal | A short walk from the old town and within a car-free zone, this hotel offers modern, airy rooms with all the creature comforts you love. With Sea views, a restaurant terrace and minutes from the beach, this four-star hotel is a fantastic choice.
Zuviteo Residence | If you’re looking for a premium apartment stay in Korčula Old Town, this is the place for you. With high-end finishes, these spacious apartments feature whitewashed walls and timber panelled ceilings, velvet seating, a fireplace and some rooms include an outdoor terrace and large bathtub.
Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel | Right on the edge of Korčula Old Town, this hotel is right by the waterfront and right in where you’ll want to be if you’re looking for a hotel within the walled old town. Appearing more like a villa than a hotel, the ancient stone exterior is complemented by modern interiors featuring the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, while maintaining some Renaissance features throughout.
Things to see and do in Korčula Town
Wander the stone laneways of the old town
Korčula Town is often dubbed ‘Mini Dubrovnik’ and upon approach, it’s easy to see why. The medieval walled city features turrets, honey-hued stone laneways, and a church bell tower rising above the red-tiled roofs. Overflowing with greenery and swollen hydrangea blooms, the stone lanes are filled with local art galleries, hole-in-the-wall wine bars, and secret passageways.
With all streets weaving into the central square, washing is strung from single lines beneath windows, under the shadows of the ancient city walls. Exploring the streets of Korčula Town can easily be done in under an hour, but let your feed guide you slowly, and become curious about the stores selling artisan fare, because you won’t get lost!
Visit the home of Marco Polo
It is believed that Korčula can lay claim to being the birthplace of famous writer and world traveller, Marco Polo. While there is debate about how true this is, it’s known that he fought on behalf of the Venetians in the famous Battle of Korčula in 1298.
Part of the house is open to visitors, however, it’s worth noting two key things. Firstly, the house you can visit was built in the 17th century, so is not the same one which Marco Polo is said to have been born in, rather a construction that was built over the site of his original claimed birthplace. Secondly, the House of Marko Polo is being reconstructed into the Museum of Marco Polo.
THE DETAILS
Open hours | April - June and September - October 9am-3pm / July - August 9am-9pm daily
Cost | 20kn for adults / 12kn for children
Climb to the top of St Mark’s bell tower for panoramic views
Korčula Old Town rises to a centre point where you’ll find the Roman Catholic cathedral of St. Mark. Stonemasons built the Gothic-Renaissance church in the 15th century over the site of a former smaller church which dated back to the 13 century.
The bell tower of St. Mark’s cathedral is ornately decorated, one of the most beautiful features of the church. Topped with a balustrade and elaborately ornamented cupola, it was artfully carved by Korčulan Marko Andrijić. Make your way to the top to take in the sweeping views across Korčula Old Town, the pine-covered isles of the archipelago and across to Orebic on Croatia’s mainland.
Take the stairs to St Anthony’s Hill for an incredible sunset
A little outside of Korčula Town you will find St Anthony’s Hill on the road towards Lumbarda. This pudding-shaped hill is the perfect place to catch sunset views across the charming Korčulan archipelago and across to the shoreline of Orebic.
Take the 102-step alley flanked by cypress trees to scale the hill, coming to greet a small chapel dedicated to St Anthony at the top. Just a 30-minute walk from Korčula Town, it’s worth adding this little visit to your list of things to do with your time on the island.
Catch a Moreška performance
Embrace traditions of the island and book yourself tickets to a Moreška performance. Moreška is a traditional sword dance heralding from Korčula dating back hundreds of years. Previously only performed on special occasions, Moreška is now a weekly occurrence for visiting tourists.
With roots tied to the 12th and 13th centuries in Spain, the dramatic performance made it to the shores of Korčula in the 16th century from the Mediterranean. A dramatised battle plays out between performers, the representatives of which have changed over the years, transcending into a dance featuring seven circles.
Spend an afternoon swimming at Banje Beach
The water around Korčula Town is crystal clear and it’s certainly tempting to jump in at any moment. You’ll often see locals taking a dip right around the bays of the old town making use of the sheltered coves. If you’re looking for a beach where you can throw down a towel and perch with a good book, Banje Beach is the place to do it.
The closest beach to the old town centre, Banje Beach is located in the Borak area in the vicinity of Marko Polo, Liburna and Park Hotel. The sea here is often calm, with easy entrance into the water. Like most of Croatia's beaches, it’s made of pebbles and shingle so you may want to pack a pair of water shoes. Or, you could just be like me and wear your thongs (flip flops) down to the water’s edge and kick them off at the last minute.
Go island hopping in the Skopi Archipelago
Korčula Town is superbly set among the crystalline waters of the Adriatic Sea, surrounded by the isles of the Skopi Archipelago. If you fancy exploring more of the region, catch a taxi boat from near the marina and spend the day on the small islands of Badija and Vrnik.
Make the most of the hop-on hop-off service to move between the islands for the day and go swimming on white pebble beaches, eat lunch at Vrnik Arts Club and be welcomed onto Badija Island by the resident fallow deer. To make the most of your day trip, read my guide to Badija island and Vrnik island here.
Spend an afternoon wine tasting among the vineyards of Lumbarda
Korčula island is home to some of Croatia’s best wineries, where lush vineyards cover the mineral-rich soil that helps produce some of the best wine I’ve ever had! One of the best places to sample some of this fine drop is in a small town on the eastern side of Korčula just 15 minutes from Korčula Town.
In Lumbarda, you can explore the micro vineyards that grow the indigenous grape variety grk, which is completely unique and only grown in Korčula. One of the best activities you can do in Korčula is to spend an afternoon wine tasting in Lumbarda. Some of my favourite wineries are Vitis and Popic wineries. You can read my complete guide to wine tasting in Lumbarda here.
Where to eat and drink in Korčula Town
Dalmatian cuisine is some of my favourite, from handmade pasta dishes to locally sourced seasonal fruit and vegetables or catch-of-the-day seafood, every plate feels distinctly like it’s been made with love. As with most of our time travelling, we indulged in the local cuisine daily to sample many of Korčula Town’s best restaurants, cafes and wine bars.
Restaurant Nigra Korčula
Set on a small terrace suspended over the sea, Restaurant Nigra Korčula is a dream dining experience. A gourmet dining experience crafted by passion and the best locally sourced ingredients, you can enjoy a local favourite handmade makaruni, a Croatian specialty, fresh caught seafood, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts.
Scallops and Zucchini at Restaurant Nigra
Alfresco terrace at Pensatore Kitchen & Wine
Pensatore Kitchen & Wine
Tucked into a honey-hued hideaway just off Korčula’s waterfront promenade, Pensatore Kitchen & Wine not only occupies prime real estate but it’s alfresco dining at its best. Under the warm glow of fairy lights, sip on locally produced wine while you marvel at the view of the sparkling Pelješac channel. Organic ingredients fill the menu for light, fresh flavours that you’ll be thinking about days later.
LD Restaurant
Overlooking the crystal clear waters surrounding Korčula Town, LD Restaurant navigates the seasons using bold flavours to create modern dishes full of Dalmatian influence. Inspired by the Adriatic coast’s beautiful gardens both above and below sea level, Head Chef Marko Gajski honours the best of indigenous seasonal ingredients to bring his dishes to life.
Konoba Nonno
Mediterranean cuisine at its core, Konoba Nonna encasing you in a buzzing atmosphere only the way a local Croatian tavern can. Think perfectly cooked tuna steaks, generous pasta dishes and delightfully delicious ragout. Conveniently located and boasting warm hospitality, it’s not only easy to reach during rush hour but the well-priced menu makes this great value for money.
Konoba Aterina
A traditional local eatery, Konoba Aterina, as it rebranded in 2014, serves modern bistro-style dishes with the inventive use of local ingredients. From a twist on traditional bruschetta featuring bacon and pesto to grilled fish and seasonal vegetables. The terrace offers a beautiful sea view where you can admire those stunning Dalmatian sunsets while you graze through the evening.
Marco Homemade Ice Cream
Ice cream is a non-negotiable on holiday for me no matter what time of year, but none more so than in summer. We passed by Marco Homemade Ice Cream every day on our stroll from our hotel into Korčula Town and naturally, I picked up a scoop or two on the way home. Deliciously creamy, they serve a range of classic flavours as well as daily specials like ricotta and fig, and orange and ginger.
Best Wine bars in Korčula Town
LoLe Wine and Tapas Bar
Set back from Korčula’s promenade, LoLe Wine and Tapas Bar is a small laneway bar that serves a wide selection of fine Croatian wines and lovingly prepared homemade sharing plates. There are only a handful of high-top tables positioned along the stairs climbing the street, so either arrive early or try to book a table in advance.
Renato is extremely knowledgeable from sharing his vast array of local wine expertise to let you experience the flavours of indigenous wine varieties from Korčula and beyond. We spent an evening grazing a meat and cheese board, topped off with a forest fruits cheesecake homemade by Renato’s wife - delish!
Bokar Wine Bar
We stopped in at Bokar Wine Bar on our first afternoon in Korčula Town and it didn’t take long for our waiter to pick up on our Australian accents which started a great conversation. Turns out he had spent time living in Sydney with family and now spends his time sharing his fantastic wine expertise with holidaymakers. You can grab some small plates to share here, but as we had dinner plans we just opted for a local red and white tasting or three local wines from Korčula and the Pelješac peninsula.
Cocktail Bar Massimo
An adults-only bar set in the turret of the Zakerjan Tower, Cocktail Bar Massimo is a unique experience. With only a few tables set in the rooftop space, this open-air bar requires some nimble navigation of several wooden staircases to reach the top. You’ve likely seen the view from this bar gracing your Instagram feed, and I’d suggest coming here for a drink and taking your leave as it’s definitely all about the view. Prices are higher for this premium location and there are definitely higher quality bars with a better range of local drinks elsewhere in the old town.
