Things to do in Korčula, Croatia – An Easy Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Set against the backdrop of the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic seas, the vibrant orange rooftops of Korcula, an island just off the coast of Croatia, welcome visitors to this captivating town. Korcula is part of the Dalmatian archipelago and is the sixth-largest island in the Adriatic. Famed for its rich history, unparalleled landscapes, and medieval charm, Korcula’s cerulean waters, scenic views, and beautiful architecture are not to be missed.

For those planning a trip to the island, we’ve created this comprehensive guide to great Korcula attractions, as well as places to eat, stay, and explore during your time in Croatia.

Exploring the Island of Korcula

The island is characterized by its diverse geography, with a mix of rocky coastlines, pebble beaches, lush forests, and vineyards. The island's interior is hilly, providing show-stopping views and opportunities for hiking and exploring.

One of the main attractions is the Korcula Old Town, situated in the northeastern part of the island. This historic town is often referred to as "Little Dubrovnik" due to its well-preserved medieval architecture and fortified walls. The town’s narrow, winding streets form a fishbone pattern, providing shade and protection from the wind. The centerpiece of the town is St. Mark's Cathedral, an impressive Gothic-Renaissance structure.

Korcula has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. It has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has been influenced by various cultures, including the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and more. This diverse cultural heritage is reflected in the island's architecture, traditions, and local cuisine.

The island is also renowned for its excellent wines, particularly its white wine made from the indigenous Pošip grape. Korcula wine production has been an important part of the island’s economy for centuries, and visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours at local wineries (more on that later).

In addition to exploring the town of Korcula, visitors can also discover other charming villages and beaches scattered around the island. Lumbarda, located on the eastern tip of the island, is known for its sandy beaches and vineyards. Vela Luka, on the western side, offers beautiful coves and bays perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Korcula Beaches

Korcula boasts some of the most pristine beaches in the world. Some popular Korcula beaches include:

• Pržina Beach: Located in the village of Lumbarda, Pržina Beach is one of the most popular sandy beaches on Korcula Island. It features fine golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, making it ideal for families with children.
• Vela Przina Beach: Also situated in Lumbarda, Vela Przina Beach is a pebble beach known for its spaciousness and scenic views. The beach is well-equipped with facilities such as beach chairs, umbrellas, and nearby cafes, allowing visitors to relax and enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
• Pupnatska Luka Beach: Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, Pupnatska Luka Beach is located in the bay of Pupnat, on the southern coast of Korcula Island. It features a horseshoe-shaped bay with white pebbles and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
• Bacva Bay: Tucked away on the northern coast of Korcula Island, Bacva Bay is a secluded beach accessible only by boat or a short hike. It is a hidden paradise studded with pebbles and crystal-clear waters. The lack of facilities adds to its untouched charm, making it perfect for those seeking a more undisturbed beach experience.
• Lenga Beach: Situated near the town of Korcula, Lenga Beach is a rocky beach offering stunning views of the medieval town's fortifications. It is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving due to its clear waters and underwater caves. The beach is easily accessible and has some shaded areas for relaxation.
• Vaja Beach: Located in the village of Račišće, Vaja Beach is a small pebble beach surrounded by pine trees and greenery. Its calm, shallow waters make it suitable for families and those looking for a peaceful swimming experience. The beach also offers a beach bar and sun loungers for convenience.

Make sure to build time in your trip schedule for some rest and much-needed relaxation at one of Korcula’s best beaches.

Korcula Cultural and Historical Sites

Whether you want to stroll through art galleries and traditional craft workshops or go a little further back in history, Korcula has something for every curious traveler.

Here are some of the top Korcula attractions to put on your Croatia itinerary.

• Cathedral of St. Mark: Often considered the centerpiece of Korcula, the Cathedral of St. Mark is a beautiful Gothic-Renaissance cathedral featuring intricate stonework and a stunning bell tower. The town also houses the Marco Polo House, a museum dedicated to the famous explorer who was believed to be born in Korcula.
• Korcula Town Walls: The fortified walls of Korcula Town date back to the 13th century and surround the entire Old Town. Walking along these walls provides panoramic views of the town, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding archipelago. Those interested in military strategy or war history will appreciate the town's strategic position and defensive history.
• Abbey Treasury in the Abbey of St. Mary: Located in the village of Zrnovo, the Abbey of St. Mary is an important religious site on Korcula. It houses a valuable collection of ecclesiastical art, including Byzantine icons, religious objects, and precious manuscripts.
• St. Michael's Church and Sveti Antun Church: Situated in the village of Lumbarda, St. Michael's Church is a Romanesque church dating back to the 12th century, known for its beautiful stone carvings. Sveti Antun Church, built in the 19th century, features a prominent bell tower and houses a collection of religious art.
• Marco Polo Birth House: Although the claim of Marco Polo's birth in Korcula can stir up some historical debate, the Marco Polo Birth House is a popular tourist site. The house is a reconstructed medieval building that showcases the life and travels of the famous Venetian explorer Marco Polo.
• The Bishops' Treasury of Korcula: This collection of valuable religious artifacts and treasures holds a diverse range of religious items, including liturgical objects, vestments, paintings, manuscripts, and other precious artifacts. The collection reflects the rich ecclesiastical history of Korcula and the broader region.

You’ll note that many of Korcula’s attractions are centered on religion, which speaks to the island’s religious significance and history.

Planning a Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Korcula

Korcula is a fantastic day trip option from Dubrovnik, and there are several easy and convenient ways to travel there.

The most common and convenient way to reach Korcula from Dubrovnik is by taking a ferry. Jadrolinija is the main ferry operator in the region, and they offer regular ferry services from Dubrovnik to Korcula Town. The journey takes approximately two to three hours, depending on the ferry route and schedule. Keep in mind that ferry timetables change by the season, so make sure to check the schedule in advance.

Another option is to take a catamaran, which is a faster but more limited service compared to the ferry. Kapetan Luka operates a catamaran service from Dubrovnik to Korcula during the summer season. The catamaran ride takes about two hours, providing a quicker option.

If you prefer a more personalized and direct transfer, you can arrange a private transfer service from Dubrovnik to Korcula. This option allows you to hire a private car, van, or taxi, which will take you from your location in Dubrovnik directly to your destination on Korcula Island. It offers flexibility in terms of departure time and convenience, but it can be more expensive than the ferry or catamaran.

You can also rent a car in Dubrovnik and drive to Korcula. The drive takes approximately three to four hours, including the time to reach the ferry port in Orebic and take a short ferry ride to Korcula. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the region and enjoy scenic coastal views along the way.

The weather may also play a key role in how you decide to travel, so remember that ferry and catamaran schedules could be impacted by inclement weather. As always, a little planning goes a long way when you’re managing travel logistics.

Hotels in Korcula

You can find Korcula hotels and accommodations for nearly every budget. Some of the most popular hotels and top-rated hotels in Korcula include:

• Hotel Korsal: Located near the historic center of Korcula Town, Hotel Korsal offers stylish and modern rooms with sea views. The hotel provides a beachfront terrace, an on-site restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and a bar.
• Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel: Nestled in a picturesque location where boats from Split and Dubrovnik dock, guests appreciate the ocean views in the oldest hotel in Korcula. This four-star hotel is built from ancient stone and is reminiscent of a large villa.
• Aminess Port9 Hotel: This hotel was recently renovated and features swimming pools, sports facilities, restaurants, and a kids' club. Situated in a peaceful bay, Port9 Hotel is about a 20-minute walk from Korcula Town.
• Guest House Lovric: This family-run restaurant and hotel offers local hospitality in Lumbarda. There is an attached winery, so guests can sample local wines and enjoy friendly, attentive service.

These are just a few examples of popular hotels on Korcula. The island also offers a variety of guesthouses, villas, and apartments for those seeking alternative accommodation options. Get a jump on booking your hotel or vacation rental, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist season.

Best Things to do in Korcula

Get a (literal) taste of Korcula history on a wine-tasting and vineyard tour excursion! Korcula is famous for its white wines made from the indigenous Pošip grape. Here are a few notable wine-tasting experiences in Korcula:

• Bire Winery: Located in Lumbarda, Bire Winery is a family-owned winery with a long tradition of winemaking. They offer wine tastings and tours where visitors can sample a variety of their wines, including Pošip and other local varietals. The winery is known for its scenic location and beautiful vineyards.
• Lovric Winery: Situated in the village of Smokvica, Lovric Winery is another family-run establishment known for its high-quality wines. They specialize in producing Pošip, Grk, and Rukatac wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours, learn about the winemaking process, and take in the picturesque surroundings.
• Korta Katarina Winery: Located near the town of Orebic on the Peljesac Peninsula (which is easily accessible from Korcula by ferry), Korta Katarina Winery offers a luxurious wine-tasting experience. The winery features a beautiful estate overlooking the Adriatic Sea and specializes in producing premium wines. Wine tastings are available, and visitors can also enjoy guided tours of the winery and vineyards.
• PZ Pošip Čara: This cooperative winery is situated in the village of Čara and focuses on producing Pošip wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and learn about the cooperative's winemaking process, which involves a collective effort from local winegrowers. The winery offers a range of Pošip wines, showcasing different expressions of the varietal.

Exploring the wine culture of Korcula is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the island's gastronomic delights and appreciate its winemaking traditions.

Korcula is also known for its natural splendor, so there’s no shortage of beautiful outdoor activities and nature excursions. Vela Spila is a prehistoric archaeological site and a significant cave located on the island. "Vela Spila" translates to "Big Cave" in English. The cave is situated near the town of Vela Luka, on the southern coast of the island.

Vela Spila Cave has been inhabited by humans for thousands of years, with evidence of human presence dating back to the Paleolithic period, around 20,000 years ago. Archaeological excavations at the site have uncovered a wealth of artifacts, tools, and animal remains, providing insights into the lives of early inhabitants.

The cave consists of a large chamber with intricate limestone formations and stalactites. It served as a shelter for early humans and provided protection from the elements. The artifacts found within the cave include stone tools, bone tools, pottery fragments, and remnants of animal bones. These discoveries have helped researchers gain a better understanding of the lifestyles, hunting practices, and artistic expressions of the people who lived there in ancient times.

Enjoy Context's Korcula Island & Ston Full-Day Tour

What better way to enjoy Korcula than with a local expert? Book Context’s Korcula Island & Ston Full-Day Tour to get the most out of your time on this incredible island.

The tour leaves from Dubrovnik, kicking off with a scenic drive along the Peljesac Peninsula. The tour’s first stop is Orebic, a small fishing village where you’ll jump on the boat to Korcula. As you admire the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, your guide will share detailed insights about Korcula.

Once you reach the island, your historian guide will explain the local history of this intriguing former Venetian town. The ferry will take you back to the Croatian mainland via the Peljesac Peninsula, which offers some of the most magnificent views of the Dalmatian coast.

Your day continues in the ancient walled town of Ston, whose sturdy walls tell the story of the area’s geopolitical significance. Dating back to the 16th century, at the time of construction they were second only to the Great Wall of China in terms of length and scope.

No visit is complete without savoring local cuisine, so you’ll have time to taste local oysters and mussels before your tour concludes.

Plan a Trip to Korcula

This enchanting island offers a wealth of culture, history, and spectacular natural beauty. With a wealth of things to do in Korcula, you might even want to spend more than a day across the water from the mainland.

A guided tour of Korcula is one of the best ways to learn about and engage with the deep significance of this small island town in an immersive, expert-led experience. You can also find additional Croatia tours to enhance your trip.