Visit Korčula Island

Rich in vineyards, olive groves and small villages, and harboring a glorious old town, the island of Korčula is the sixth-largest Adriatic island, stretching nearly 47km in length. Dense pine forests led the original Greek settlers to call the island Korkyra Melaina (Black Corfu). A place of culture, history, beauty, and charm, the island of Korčula offers a variety of activities and unique traditions, all set in the stunning Adriatic and blessed by excellent Korčula weather.

The main resorts of this island are Korčula Town – people call it “Little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval squares, churches, palaces, and houses, Vela Luka, and Lumbarda. Small towns and villages are dotted around the island for those looking for a more secluded holiday.

Like most of Croatia, Korčula is brimming with natural beauty. But Korčula is also home to a spectacular wine culture, a stunning old city, a collection of hidden beaches, and some unique dining specialties. Korčula is well known, but it’s not as busy or overcrowded as other Croatian islands. Korčula has a reputation for being the wine island, and it’s home to some varietals you can’t find anywhere else, like Grk and Pošip. While you can find local wine on every Croatian island, Korčula’s wines are head and shoulders above the rest.

Whether you want to go bike riding through vineyards that edge along the sea or take in a fearsome Moreška dance performance, whether you want to go wine tasting up and down the island or discover hidden beaches, whether you want to have a Michelin-starred meal or country food in a traditional konoba, Korčula has something for you!

Countless beauty, full beaches and coves, luxury hotels and holiday homes, centuries-old olive groves and vineyards, ancient summer houses and ancient island places that seem to have been lost in a bygone era lure tourists from all over the world to this island.

 

How to Spend a Weekend in Korcula!

WHAT TO DO IN KORČULA ISLAND

Visit Korčula’s Picturesque Old Town

Korčula Town is the island’s most visited destination. The main attraction on the island of Korčula is the Old Town, also known as ‘mini Dubrovnik’. The Old Town is encircled by a medieval wall with an impressive gate at the front and plenty of restaurants, shops and cafes to explore inside. It is also the perfect place to admire the impressive Gothic and Renaissance style buildings and capture some Instagram worthy photos of the beautiful cobbled streets and sea views.

Learn about Marco Polo

Did you know that the famous explorer, Marco Polo, was born on the small island of Korčula? Marco Polo was a medieval Venetian merchant, writer, traveller and explorer, who was the first explorer to record his travels. The exact date and location of where Marco Polo was born is still not certain, with some historians claiming he was born in Venice and others suggesting he was born on the island of Korčula. The house where Marco Polo was allegedly born, remains in Korčula and is open for tourists to visit for a small fee. Or you can visit the many Marco Polo gift shops located throughout the town.

Climb to the top of St. Mark’s Cathedral

This Gothic and Renaissances style church was built in the 15th Century and is arguably the most famous building in Korčula town. The cathedral has intricate carvings and decorations outside, including two famous statues of Adam and Eve. St. Mark’s cathedral is built on the highest point in the Old Town and provides impressive views from the top. Visitors can climb the long, spiral staircase up to the bell tower and enjoy 360° views of Korčula.

Try local wine

Korčula has a long history of making delicious local wine, with many tours available to take you to multiple vineyards and wineries and where you can taste different wines. Unlike most of Dalmatia, which is known for producing mostly red wines, Korčula is renowned for its white wine. The most popular white wine in Korčula is Grk, which is produced from white grapes called Grk in the small village of Lumbarda. If you are visiting Korčula in July and August, you may be able to catch the many wine festivals held on the island each year – the perfect experience for any wine lover!

Visit An Olive Oil Producer

Olive oil from Korčula is on the list of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) of the European Commission, which means it’s of superior quality and made according to traditional, authentic methods. One of the best things to do in Korčula is a visit to a local olive farm, where you can sample different oil types. This, of course, also makes for a great souvenir.

Windsurf On Korčula Island

One of the most popular water sport activities in Korčula, thanks to the glorious Korčula weather, is windsurfing. The island is located in a prime position to catch the perfect afternoon Maestral, a summer wind that allows windsurfers to enjoy plenty of movement out on the waters. Gliding over the open sea connects guests and locals alike, and all skill levels are welcome to join in. Windsurfing schools offer lessons in areas on the island where the wind is less intense, and equipment designed for beginners is available for use at these schools.

Enjoy the stunning beaches

This charming gem is blessed with plenty of alluring beaches. In the southern part of the island, you can find some sandy beaches nestled in isolated bays, or you can have one of the pebbly beaches on the northern side of Korčula.

Feast on fresh seafood

If you want to indulge yourself in some delicious local dishes, it is best to start with fresh fish and makaruni – a unique island specialty, handmade pasta served with a rich sauce. The most popular fish dish is lešada or popara – a special kind of fish stew…or you can try the octopus cooked in its juices!