The 7 essential things to do in Korčula

Let's start discovering Croatian island culture with the 8 things to do in Korčula. The program: sea and sun baths and exciting activities!

With more than 17,000 inhabitants, Korčula is the most populous island in Croatia. It is also a major tourist spot in the region! Every year, visitors go to Korčula to enjoy a postcard frame and swim in the Adriatic, known as a sweet and translucent. No doubt: with its area of 279 km2, you will not be bored for a second.

In addition, Korčula has long been the cradle of Croatian art. Indeed, it is considered an open-air museum, especially in the capital of the city. You can go looking for art works between two beach sessions. So tried to explore the Croatian island? Follow our guide to do nothing to do in Korčula.

1. The old town of Korčula

Join the old town of Korčula, located east of the island, to discover a charming medieval fortified city. Indeed, the old town of Korčula has an important historical heritage. Architecture recalls Venetian art, and some buildings pay tribute to the 1930s. Begin by losing yourself in small paved streets, then drink a drink in the main artery where the atmosphere is often animated.

Among the unmistakable things to discover in the old town of Korčula are the Cathedral of Saint Mark, as well as the Arneri Palace. Continue your journey to discover religious buildings such as the Saint-Pierre and Saint-Mihovil churches. Finally, and if the story of Marco Polo you are interested, you can visit his house in one of the streets of the old town.

To finish your visit, we invite you to eat on the eastern part of the old town of Korčula to enjoy some specialties in front of a beautiful sunset.

2. The beaches

Who says holidays, says long mornings, afternoons or evenings at the beach! We selected two to discover in Korčula.

Pupnatska Luca

A haven of peace formed by pebbles! Pupnatska Luca Beach is located in a quiet bay south of Korčula Island, 15 km from the old town. Pittoresque and family, it offers a breathtaking view of the canal. Moreover, its turquoise blue water is clear enough to see your feet by swimming, and of course some fish.

If you find the little comfortable pebbles, you can rent sun chairs as well as parasols to protect you from the sun. The shadow is actually rare on Pupnatska Luca. Also note that parking is available near the bay, as well as dining points.

Vela Przina

We present a second beach to discover during your visit to Korčula, of fine sand this time: Vela Przina. The latter is located in a large bay, close to Lumbarda, in the eastern part of the island of Korčula. From the beach you will have a nice view to the discreet island of Lastovo.

The Adriatic Sea is always as beautiful and translucent as you will find it difficult to finalize at your swimming session. In addition, during the high season, avoid high-speed hours , because Vela Przina can be quickly filled. This advice applies especially if you plan to rent sun chairs and parasols: the equipment of the par excellence is quickly sold out .

3. A walk in Lumbarda

During your visit to Korčula, take a long time walk to Lumbarda, a small fishing village located in the eastern part of the island. The place is magical because it is surrounded by a bay, but also by vineyards, olive groves and pine forests. No doubt, if you are looking to recharge your batteries outside the urban hull, Lumbarda is the must-see spot in Korčula.

The history of Lumbarda is also interesting to know, since the island was first inhabited by Greeks, whose inheritance translates into the presence of gnathia vases found after archaeological research.

Also, the houses of Lumbarda recall the “kaštel”: traditional buildings where the wealthy families lived. Don’t hesitate to visit the small churches and other chapels that keep the religious heritage of this area on the outskirts of the island’s capital.

4. Vela Luka

The town of Vela Luka, located at the west end, is a must-see during a stay in Korčula. It is also the largest city on the island! The Vela Luka landscape is all in relief with hills and other cliffs, for the greatest happiness of nature lovers.

Do not hesitate to take a high view of Vela Luka, the coastline and the islands of Hvar and Lastovo. Then go back to the village, where you will see traditional stone houses.

Vera Luka is also known for its vineyards, and especially its olives, exported worldwide. We encourage you to visit the olive groves that cover Vela Spila (“the great cave”). In this hidden spot you can admire the oldest home known on the Adriatic. It is indeed here that archaeologists have found human skeletons dating back to 9,000 years.

5. Proizd Island

A day to discover Proidz Island, a small island only separated from Korčula by a sea arm, is a must to do when you visit Korčula.

Embark on a small boat from Vera Luka in the early morning to land on Proidz 30 minutes Later. Before you place your towel on one of the most beautiful Croatian beaches (yes!), go explore the woods through a marked path. The small forest hike bypasses the beach while allowing you to see the blue of the sea.

After this health walk, settle on the beach or in a hammock and... relax!

6. Visit a vineyard

Croatia is renowned for its wine. It is partly in Korčula that the latter is produced! Indeed, thanks to the right climate, the island has many vineyards that we invite you to discover if you like vine juice.

The best known white wine is Pošip with golden color. Dry and soft, it is often served at party meals. For red wine, you will surely taste the famous Plavac Mali . Finally, accompany your drinks with charcuterie and local cheeses.

Also note that the island has about 20 or 30 vineyards. Thus, there will certainly be one not far from your accommodation for a tasting session. Not to be missed during your visit to Korčula!

7. A hike in Kocje

Korčula has a lush nature and natural reserves. Kocje, located east of the island, is a must-see in Korčula. This oasis hidden by the flora is splendid, and invites you to discover a hidden phase of Korčula, away from the coast.

Kocje thus calls its visitors to explore its paths through old trees like the world, and in the shadow of the cliffs of dolomite. You will imagine yourself in the forest of Merlin the Enchanter!

Raise your head sometimes to admire the birds. Then drop it again to discover the small streams and other water points that will punctuate your walk. In addition, the hike extends on only 2.5 km before reaching a clearer terrain where you can rest, eat a picnic and read a good book.

How to get to Korčula?

From France

To visit Korčula from Paris, you can count about 3 hours of non-stop aircraft to Dubrovnik and Split. We invite you to explore these two options using Ulysses a flight comparison.

Then, from these two cities, you can reach Korčula via a ferry . Moreover, from Dubrovnik, you can also reach Korčula by road for a trip 2 - 3 hours .

On site

Travel to the island by car, public bus or bike! If you want to visit islands or islets around, opt for small boats or ferries. Sea departures are very numerous, especially from the old town of Korčula or Vela Luca.

Where to stay in Korčula?

Hotel

You will find hotels for all budgets on Korčula, although the summer season increases prices. If you want a quality hotel near the old town, for example, you have to count between 60 € and 110 € per night breakfast included .

You can also offer you the luxury of a resort on the Lumbarda side for several hundred euros at night . These facilities are usually on the waterfront!

The hotels are stormed several months before the summer, so make sure to book in advance. Use one hotel comparison to choose the right accommodation according to your requirements and budget.

In Airbnb

If you prefer the experience “as at home”, you can rent your Airbnb for a private 40 euros , or a room at the inhabitant for 20-30 € . The vast majority of accommodations on Airbnb are concentrated in the city of Korčula.

Au camping

The island also has a camping handful for an experience closest to nature. The most famous is Camp Mindel in Vela Luka, which offers unbeatable prices (about 5 € to 10 € at night).

Take your eyes full during this island stay in Korčula. Let us know what you preferred during your visit to the island and tell us how your vacation took place in comment!