Welcome, curious travelers! Today, I’m taking you on a journey to Korčula Island – one of the most enchanting destinations in southern Croatia, famed for its fortified old town, sparkling Adriatic waters, and a deep connection to Marco Polo.
Whether you’re drawn by the lure of history, the love of nature, or simply the desire to sip wine by the sea, Korčula offers it all – minus the overwhelming crowds of more famous islands like Hvar or Brač.
📌 Location: Southern Dalmatia, Croatia
🗺️ Between: Hvar Island and the Pelješac Peninsula
🚢 Accessible via ferry from Split, Dubrovnik, and Orebić
Korčula sits nestled in the turquoise Adriatic Sea, measuring around 47 km in length and boasting a diverse coastline with sandy coves and pine-covered hills.
Korčula has a long and layered history shaped by Greek settlers, Roman rule, Venetian architecture, and Ottoman threats.
Settled by the Greeks in the 6th century BC
Ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Venetians, and later the Austrians
Home to Marco Polo’s legacy, who is believed to have been born here
Known for its defensive stone walls, built to protect against pirate invasions
Every step through Korčula Old Town feels like a walk through time, with stone alleyways, Gothic-Renaissance buildings, and medieval gates whispering centuries of stories.
Located in the heart of the Old Town
A 15th-century cathedral with a Romanesque-Gothic facade
Don’t miss the bell tower for sweeping island views
Allegedly the birthplace of the explorer
Now a museum with exhibits about Marco Polo’s life and journeys
Climb the tower for a panoramic lookout
Walk along the fortified walls and admire the stone towers
Pass through the Land Gate (Kopnena Vrata) with its carved lion symbol – a nod to Venetian rule
Showcases Korčula’s art, culture, and maritime history
Features archaeological artifacts and Renaissance furniture
Korčula isn’t just about history – it’s a paradise for beach lovers, hikers, and cyclists.
Pupnatska Luka: A secluded, pebbled beach with crystal-clear waters and lush pine forests
Vela Pržina (Lumbarda): A rare sandy beach, perfect for families
Bacva Bay: Intimate and ideal for snorkeling
Proizd Island: A short boat ride from Vela Luka, with bright white rocks and surreal blue water
Rent a bike or scooter to explore inland vineyards and olive groves
Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or sailing along the coast
Go hiking near Žrnovo or Pupnat for dramatic hilltop views
Korčula is also famous for its local wine production, particularly in the village of Lumbarda.
Grk: A dry white wine indigenous to Lumbarda
Pošip: Another aromatic white from nearby Čara and Smokvica
Plavac Mali: A robust red variety, similar to Zinfandel
Peka (meat or seafood slow-cooked under an iron bell)
Žrnovski Makaruni (local handmade pasta)
Octopus salad, grilled fish, and black risotto
Don't miss dining at Konoba Mate (Pupnat), LD Restaurant (Korčula Town), or Filippi for a blend of traditional and modern Dalmatian flavors.
The main town, often called “Little Dubrovnik” thanks to its medieval walls
Buzzes with cafes, museums, and cultural events
Famed for its sandy beaches and Grk wine
Ideal for families and wine lovers
A charming harbor town on the western end of the island
Starting point for boat trips to Proizd Island
Smaller villages offering authentic local life, scenic drives, and olive oil tastings
Korčula preserves centuries-old traditions with pride. If you’re lucky, your trip might coincide with:
Moreska Sword Dance: A unique medieval battle dance performed only in Korčula
Marco Polo Fest: Music and cultural festival celebrating the explorer’s legacy
Wine festivals in Lumbarda and Smokvica during summer
Locals are deeply tied to their heritage, and these performances and events offer insight into their rich identity.
Korčula caters to all types of travelers, from budget backpackers to luxury seekers.
Lešić Dimitri Palace (Luxury boutique in Korčula Town)
Hotel Liburna (4-star with sea views)
Aminess Lume Hotel (Vela Luka, quiet and romantic)
Camping Kalac (Near Korčula Town, ideal for nature lovers)
From Split: Daily ferries and catamarans (~3-4 hours)
From Dubrovnik: Daily catamaran to Korčula Town (~2 hours)
From Orebić (Pelješac Peninsula): Short ferry ride to Dominče port
Buses from major Croatian cities connect with ferries
Rent a car or scooter to explore inland
Local buses connect Korčula Town with other villages
Capture the sunset over Korčula Town’s marina
Snap the stone alleys and red rooftops from St. Mark’s tower
Visit Proizd Island for incredible seascapes
📅 Best Time to Visit: May–September (July and August are busiest)
🧳 Pack: Sunscreen, swimwear, hiking shoes, and a reusable water bottle
💬 Language: Croatian (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
💰 Currency: Euro (as of 2023)
Support local artisans and winemakers
Avoid single-use plastics when visiting beaches
Choose eco-certified accommodations and use refillable water bottles
Korčula Island is a place where history, nature, and culture blend seamlessly. With its walled towns, sun-kissed beaches, and intimate charm, it delivers the best of Croatia without the massive tourist crowds.
Whether you're sailing along its coast, exploring Gothic alleys, or sipping Grk wine under olive trees, Korčula offers an experience that’s authentic, relaxing, and unforgettable.