I always give my heart and soul into every single post. But this one… This one is special. Korcula is one of my favorite places on earth and writing about it gives me so much pleasure.

My story with Korcula starts in 2017. And it’s a love story from the very beginning. It’s the birthplace of my boyfriend where he spent most of his childhood. I’m flattered that I have the opportunity to get to know the island from someone local. And what an island this is.

It dates back to old Greeks who arrived in these parts of the world from Greek island Kerkyra (today’s Corfu). Because of dense pine-woods, they decided to name island Korkyra Melaina (Black Corfu).

But if I have to choose one word to describe Korcula, it would be RELAX. I guess Greek Gods also visited Korcula when they needed to recharge batteries. 🙂

Korcula from above

 

Korcula – view from Sv.Nikola

 

HOW TO GET TO KORCULA

 

Unfortunately, there is no airport on Korcula. The only way to come there is by ferry or catamaran from the nearest cities. If you’re coming with a car, you can buy a ferry ticket online or using the app of Jadrolinija.

 

FLYING TO DUBROVNIK OR SPLIT

The easiest way to reach Korcula is to fly to Dubrovnik and take a bus ride to the island. It takes around 2 hours and it includes a short ride with a ferry from Peljesac to Korcula. The same applies if you’re coming with a car.

If you’re coming from Split you can either take catamaran that drives around 2-3 hours to Korcula or ferry (if you’re coming with a car).

 

FLYING TO ZAGREB

If you’re flying to Croatian capital you have a few options on how to get to Korcula.

If you’re going in a car, the cheapest option is driving to Ploce. Then you take a ferry to Peljesac (1-hour ride) and another ferry to Korcula (20min ride). You can also take a ferry from Split which is a bit faster but also a more expensive way to reach Korcula. This will take around 7 hours but will offer some scenic views on the way.

If you’re coming on a bus, there are plenty of bus lines from Zagreb to Split. There you can take the same mentioned catamaran as above.

There is also a night bus connecting Zagreb and Korcula. This is a whole night ride and it can be quite exhausting. In my opinion, it’s better to travel to Split and then come with a catamaran to Korcula.

Please check all your options on Putovnica.net.

 

Relax on Zakrjan beach

 

WHERE TO STAY ON KORCULA

 

As I already mentioned above, the biggest towns in Korcula are Korcula town, Blato and Vela Luka. Keep in mind that Korcula is not a small island and distance from Korcula town to Vela Luka is 41,8 km (40 minutes of drive).

If you ask me, Korcula Old Town is the best place to stay in Korcula. There are only a few beaches and it’s possible to swim and sunbathe on the rocks that are surrounding the old town. It’s actually my favorite place to swim. Even if you want to go to some sandy beaches, you can head to nearby Lumbarda. It’s only 10 minutes drive with a car or 20minutes with a bike. There is a bus connecting these two cities a few times a day.

My favorite beach is Zitna beach and it’s located in the middle of the island, in the village Zavalatica.

You can choose to stay wherever you like if you have a car. In case you’re coming by bus, then choose wisely your location closer to Old Town because that’s the center of life on Korcula.

If you chose to stay in Old Town, I recommend staying in this apartment. You will be sleeping right in the middle of the Old Town and wake up to an amazing sea view.

Map of Korcula

 

THINGS TO DO IN KORCULA

 

Korcula Old Town is quite small but the island itself is pretty huge. There are many but many things you can do there.

 

Korcula Old Town

 

STROLL AROUND OLD TOWN

Often called mini Dubrovnik, Korcula Old Town has one big advantage: it’s less crowded. But fewer people doesn’t mean less beautiful. It’s stunning as his big, more famous brother.

The town itself is quite small and you will easily find a way to move around. But don’t rush. Take your time to explore the historic narrow streets mostly built during Venetian rule (between the 10th and 15th centuries).

Enter the Old Town at one of the two town gates and stroll around streets. Go to the top of the St. Mark’s cathedral for an amazing view and take a photo in front of some of 8 towers. Feel the city.

For more detailed information check the official sight guide of Korcula.

 

Korcula Old Town streets

 

VISIT BIRTH HOUSE OF MARCO POLO

The endless battle between Venice and Korcula remains unsolved: was Marco Polo born on Korcula or in Venice? While many historians will agree that his birthplace was Italy, few of them will agree with Korcula locals. According to them, the exact birth house of the famous explorer is located right in the middle of Old Town.

The house itself is very small and it’s up to be renovated. But the best part for any visitor comes at the top of the house. Loggia up there offers amazing views over Korcula Old Town.

The entrance fee is quite low: 20kn or around 2,5euros.

 

View from Marco Polo house, Korcula

 

EXPLORE KORCULA’S ARCHIPELAGO

Korcula archipelago is amazing as the island itself. Many small islands such as Badija, Vrnik, or Moro are easy and fast reachable. All rich with great pebbly beaches. Island hopping on another level.

Badija is the biggest one and it is famous by fallow deer who often approach visitors and are quite an attraction. Something you don’t see or experience every day.

Many taxi boats drive almost hourly to every single of these islands. The drive lasts around 30 min and costs around 50 kunas (approx. 7 euros).

 

Girl laying in the Adriatic sea

 

FIND THE PRETTIEST BEACHES ON KORCULA

Now, this is a tough one. As I said before, Korcula is a large island and has many great beaches. The list below is based on my personal preferences. I’m sure you will not be disappointed if you visit any other beach.

 

#ZITNA BEACH

Quite small but wonderful, Zitna beach is by far my favorite beach on the island. It’s located in Zavalatica, near Cara.

 

Zitna Beach

#PUPNATSKA LUKA

If it’s to believe The Guardian, Pupnatska Luka is one of 25 prettiest beaches in Europe. The beach has one restaurant and one coffee shop. It’s very hard to find a shadow but there is a possibility to rent a sunshade.

 

Pupnatska Luka behind me

#PRZINA/ BILI ZAL

Hidden behind gorgeous vineyards, these two beaches in Lumbarda are favorite of many. Sandy beaches with shallow water are perfect for family visits or paddling lovers.

#PROIZD

Among all attractions on Korcula island, Proizd sure receives the most of the tribute. Proizd is an island near Vela Luka surrounded by crystal clear water.  It’s easy and cheap to get there: for only 60kunas (return ticket) you can be there from Vela Luka in 30 minutes.

Please note: taxi boat stands near INA gas station.

 

 

#ZAKRJAN BEACH

Located on the eastern edge of the Old Town, Zakrjan is a swimming spot of many locals for years. Don’t get fooled by its location in Old Town: water is crystal clear and ideal for swimmers. Consisted of large rocks and concrete platforms, Zakrjan is not a typical beach. But it is my favorite place for sunbathing and swimming. I will leave the picture and turquoise water to speak for itself.

There are many other beautiful beaches that I didn’t have the opportunity to visit. Locals recommended also Bacva and Orlandusa. Well, I have to leave something for the next time.

 

The entrance to the sea on Zakrjan Beach

 

EXPLORE THE ISLAND WITH THE BIKE

As a newbie in the cycling world, I was very excited to indulge in cycling on Korcula. Bicycles are available for rent in many places through the island. If you’re interested in guided tours, there are also agencies specialized in this.

There are no dedicated cycling routes but the roads are quite bike-friendly. There are also many off-road routes leading to villages or vineyards.

If you’re staying in Old Town, I recommend going to Lumbarda by bike. We also cycled to Pupnatska Luka which I don’t recommend since the road on the return is too uphill. it was too hard for us to cycle, especially after the whole day of swimming and sunbathing.

We also wanted to cycle from Old Town to Kneze but didn’t have time. I will make sure not to miss that next time because the views are amazing.

 

CATCH SUNSET 

Alfred Hitchcock said that the prettiest sunset in the world can be seen in Zadar, Croatia. But I don’t think he saw the sunsets on Korcula.

The western side of the old town offers some amazing sunsets. If you’re in for a treat, during sunset head to Massimo bar for a cocktail. Nothing beats a good drink with a good sunset view.

 

Sunset in Old Town

 

WATCH MORESKA

The traditional sword dance is one of the most known features of the island. This is a drama that follows a story and a battle between two kings. It’s performed every Monday and Thursday during the summer season on a small open-air stage in Old Town.

Moreska is an example of a tradition that holds for over 400 years. It’s very popular among locals and tourists, as well.

 

 

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A post shared by moreska.korcula (@moreska.korcula) on Jul 8, 2020 at 3:24am PDT

TAKE A DAY TRIP

When you’re observing Croatia, Korcula is far south. But once you’re there it’s actually pretty easy to include more places into your Croatian trip. Be it island hopping or a trip to a neighboring town, many places can easily be a one day trip.  I will speak more about that below in the text.

 

Take da day trip or stay on Korcula to explore more this divine island

 

DRINK AND EAT LOCALLY

Korcula is not only a place of amazing history and remarkable beaches: food and wine scenes here are to die for.  Traditional Mediterranean cuisine, filled with seafood, stewed meat and homemade pasta. One of the specialties of the island is Zrnovski makaruni, a homemade pasta that takes a considerable time to prepare.

And well, wine lovers, you are in the right place. Korcula is widely known as a wine-producing island. Most famous wines are Grk and Posip, both produced for centuries.

Let’s speak about food more below. 🙂

 

WHERE TO EAT ON KORCULA

 

If you ask me, food is a very important part of every trip. I still remember the best pizza I ate in Rome and excellent lentil soup I tried in Abu Dhabi. Hell, I’m already looking forward to eating Chana Masala in India.

And trust me: the food in Croatia is great. Food on Korcula is even better. If you’re a fan of seafood and pasta, you’re at the right place. Below I listed a few recommendations for you. Some of them I tried myself but others also come highly recommended by locals.

 

Konoba Marko Polo

Lumbarda 378, 20263 Lumbarda

This restaurant is right in the center of Lumbarda. Besides tasty food, konoba Marko Polo has an excellent location: right next to the sea.

I can’t recommend enough this place: food is more than tasty and the prices are actually quite good. You can find more information on their Facebook page. 

This photo is a screenshot from my Instagram story. Unfortunately I lost all photos from that day. But you can I was happy. 

 

Konoba Adio Mare

Ulica Marka Pola 2, 20260, Korcula Old Town

Located in the heart of Old Town, Konoba Adio Mare is probably the most famous restaurant on the island. They take pride in almost 40 years-long tradition of preparing meals from fresh ingredients.

It’s a bit on the pricey side but polite staff, a wonderful terrace and amazing food make up for it. Please note that you have to make a reservation if you want to get a table during the summer season.

 

Konoba Adio Mare from above

Bistro Dalmatino

Luka Kneza bb, 20264, Racisce

Place with a perfect ambiance, right next to the sea, and amazing food, Dalmatino comes as a recommendation of locals. I would recommend this as a reward after the biking tour from Korcula to Kneze.

Check their menu here.

 

 

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A post shared by Bistro Dalmatino (@bistrodalmatino) on Jul 14, 2020 at 2:19pm PDT

 

Lesic Dimitri

Don Pavla Pose 1, 20260, Korcula

If you’re more for fine dining, you should check Lesic Dimitri. This 1star Michelin restaurant has amazing reviews despite pretty high prices. If you have a budget for it, you should try it for sure.

 

 

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A post shared by Lesic Dimitri Palace (@lesic.dimitri.palace) on Oct 23, 2019 at 12:44am PDT

 

The restaurants below came as a recommendation in a travel group that I’m a member of. I checked their review and I have to say that it seems quite good. Something to try next time.

 

Konoba Maslina

Lumbarajska ulica bb, 20260, Korcula

Konoba Mate

Village Pupant

Konoba Maha

Zrnovo

 

But it’s not just the food, it’s the service itself. People working in customer service are genuinely nice and ready to help you. Not to mention that they all speak English. Whatever you choose from the list, I’m sure you will enjoy it.

 

One of many charming restaurants in Korcula

 

DAY TRIPS FROM KORCULA

 

As already mentioned there are many possibilities for a day trips from Korcula. Some of them listed below:

 

NP MLJET

To reach island Mljet from Korcula, you will only need approx. 30 min of a ferry ride. Beloved among people who like untouched nature, Mljet is often called mystic oasis. As such it’s an excellent choice for people who like to explore and get back in touch with nature. You can find more about Mljet on the page of the Tourist board of Mljet. 

 

 

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A post shared by Visit Island Mljet, Croatia (@visitmljet) on Sep 16, 2018 at 1:51am PDT

DUBROVNIK

No special introduction is needed for Croatia’s most famous city. The good news for anyone visiting Korcula is that Dubrovnik is easily reachable. In around 2 hours you can go to Dubrovnik, either with a ferry or a bus.

 

 

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A post shared by Dubrovnik Croatia (@dubrovnik.croatia) on Jul 25, 2019 at 2:28am PDT

LASTOVO 

Lastovo is known for being a peaceful and unspoiled island. Although popular among Croatians, it still didn’t find a way to massive tourism.

I never visited the island but my friend was just there (photo below).

Find more about Lastovo here.

 

 

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A post shared by @karmellla_ on Aug 7, 2020 at 2:00am PDT

 

HVAR

Being one of the most popular islands in Croatia, Hvar offers many things to do. Strolling around Old Town, spending a day at the beach, or exploring the fortress – there is something for everyone. A little bit over one hour of a ferry ride will get you to Hvar from Korcula.

 

 

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A post shared by Visit Hvar (@visithvar) on Feb 6, 2020 at 10:26am PST

 

 

*For the timetables of buses and ferries, check Putovnica.net. Please note that as a result of COVID-19, there are less than usual service providers which can result in fewer ferry options. Hopefully, things will get better for summer 2021.

 

 

WHEN ARE YOU VISITING KORCULA?

 

Now the ball is in your court – when are you visiting Korcula? With all the information collected in one place, you don’t need anything else besides this guide and a ticket.

If you liked the post, feel free to like, or share it anytime. If you have any questions, leave me a comment and I will get back to you.

Until the next reading,

Your Traveler To Be