Korčula Town is small, walkable, and full of stone detail. A fish‑bone street plan cools the lanes while sea views open from the walls. Beaches, vineyards, and islets sit minutes away. The Old Town is nationally protected and listed on UNESCO’s Tentative List (not inscribed).
Quick orientation
Korčula Town sits on a small peninsula on the east of the island. The Old Town is pedestrian‑only. Newer quarters spread around the harbour. Lumbarda lies 6 km southeast through low hills and vineyards. The south coast bays face open sea and deep blue water.
How to get to Korčula
Ferry basics: Passenger‑only catamarans (Krilo/Kapetan Luka, TP Line) connect Split/Hvar and Dubrovnik ↔ Korčula Town seasonally. The year‑round Jadrolinija car ferry runs Orebić ↔ Dominče (Korčula Town). In July–August, book ahead.
Split to Korčula ferry and catamaran
High‑season catamarans run from Split via Hvar to Korčula Town. Journey times are short and seats are reserved. In the shoulder months, services reduce. Check schedules early. If you bring a car, route via the Pelješac peninsula makes sense.
Dubrovnik to Korčula catamaran
Fast passenger‑only catamarans depart from Dubrovnik’s Gruž ferry port to Korčula Town (seasonal schedule). Timings vary by day. Seats often sell out on Fridays and Sundays—book ahead in July and August. The ride tracks the coast and islands.
Orebić to Korčula car ferry
For drivers, the year‑round Jadrolinija car ferry runs Orebić ↔ Dominče (Korčula Town). Crossings take about 15–20 minutes. Departures are frequent in summer. The drive across Pelješac is scenic and calm.
Getting around the island
Buses link Korčula Town with Lumbarda, Žrnovo, Pupnat, Blato, and Vela Luka. Taxis are reliable for short hops. Scooters and e‑bikes suit beach‑to‑vineyard days. Boats taxi out to the islets. The Old Town itself is car‑free, so pack light and wear soft‑soled shoes.
Old Town walk: gates, towers, and a cathedral
Land Gate (Veliki Revelin)
Enter by a grand stair under the stone lion. The gate marks the boundary between harbour bustle and quiet lanes. Pause on the terrace for a first panorama.
St Mark’s Cathedral
The cathedral crowns the tiny ridge at the centre. A mix of local stonework and Venetian grace frames the portal. Inside, you will find rich altars, a carved pulpit, and fine light. Climb the bell tower for the best roofline views in town.
Korčula Town Museum (Gabrielis Palace)
Set in a noble house near the main square. Exhibits tell seafaring, stonemasonry, and daily life. The rooms feel intimate. Allow 30–45 minutes.
Marco Polo: local tradition vs scholarship
Local tradition links Marco Polo to Korčula with viewpoints and small exhibits. Most scholars favour Venice as his birthplace. Treat it as story‑colour and enjoy the tower view.
Traditions that still perform
Moreška sword dance
On warm evenings, drummers call people to the square. Dancers cross blades to a local story of rescue and return. Performances run weekly in peak season, with an important date in late July. Arrive ten minutes early for a good view.
Korkyra Baroque Festival
Each late summer, musicians fill churches and halls with early music. The acoustics suit strings and voices. Programmes mix international guests with Croatian ensembles. Tickets are simple to secure.
Island‑hopping from Korčula Town
Badija: monastery and pine shade
A short boat ride takes you to Badija. Paths circle the island. The Franciscan complex faces the channel. Swim steps drop into clear water.
Vrnik: quarries and quiet coves
Vrnik is a pocket‑sized world of stone. Old quarries line the shore. Bring water shoes and a book. Cafés are tiny and low‑key.
Stupe (Moro Beach)
Stupe is lively in summer with a chic beach spot. Music floats over shallow blues. Reserve loungers if you plan a lazy afternoon.
Beaches near town and beyond
Lumbarda beaches
Lumbarda delivers rare sandy strands. Families love the gentle entry and warm shallows. Vineyards sit just behind the dunes.
Vela Pržina
South‑facing, sandy, and social. Expect a beach bar, rentals, and wide views.
Bilin Žal
North‑facing and slightly calmer. Mix of sand and fine pebbles. Good for snorkelling near the rocks.
South‑coast classic: Pupnatska Luka
A deep, pebbled bay with vivid water. The road down is narrow. The reward is a perfect arc of beach and a couple of simple konobas.
Wine tasting on Korčula
Grk in Lumbarda
Grk grows in sandy soils near the sea. Flavours lean dry, saline, and aromatic. Many small wineries open tasting rooms from late morning. Pair a glass with local olives and a plate of cheese.
Pošip in Smokvica and Čara
Pošip is the island’s flagship white. Expect stone fruit, herbal notes, and structure. Visits run by appointment in shoulder seasons. Designate a driver or use a taxi for a relaxed afternoon.
Where to stay in Korčula Town
Choose by travel style:
Couples: Inside the walls for romance, stone views, and short strolls (smaller rooms, stairs).
Families: Harbour‑side apartments for space and easy luggage access.
Beach lovers: Lumbarda for sandy shores and vineyard views.
Quiet escapes: South‑coast bays for sea vistas and calm (car recommended).
Note: The Old Town is car‑free. Arrange parking and drop‑off with your host.
Top Rated Hotels in Korčula
1. 🔍Aminess Younique Korčula Heritage Hotel
Review score: 9.2 (494 reviews)
Elegant heritage hotel on the Old Town waterfront promenade, just steps from St. Mark’s Cathedral. Offers classic rooms and suites with sea or town views, ideal for couples seeking charm and history.
Neighborhood: Korčula Old Town (location score 9.9)
Key facilities: Private parking, Wi-Fi, beachfront, restaurant and bar, airport shuttle, family rooms, terrace, buffet breakfast.
Why it stands out: The most iconic address on Korčula’s medieval waterfront with unmatched location and character.
2. 🔍Marko Polo Maradiso Hotel by Aminess
Review score: 9.2 (934 reviews)
Modern seaside hotel a short walk from the Old Town, featuring large outdoor pools, spa, and contemporary rooms with sea views. Suited to couples and families who want resort-style comfort near historic attractions.
Neighborhood: Šetalište Frana Kršinića, 10–15 minutes’ walk to the Old Town (location 9.6)
Key facilities: Two swimming pools, private parking, Wi-Fi, beachfront, family rooms, airport shuttle, buffet breakfast.
Why it stands out: Combines resort facilities with easy access to the Old Town and sea views from most rooms.
3. 🔍Hotel Korsal
Review score: 9.2 (437 reviews)
Small beachfront hotel in a car-free zone about five minutes from the Old Town. Bright rooms, some with balconies, and a popular on-site restaurant make it ideal for couples seeking quiet comfort and sea views.
Neighborhood: Town beach promenade (location 9.7)
Key facilities: Parking, Wi-Fi, beachfront, family rooms, free airport shuttle, restaurant and bar, excellent breakfast with vegetarian options.
Why it stands out: Peaceful, car-free location with direct beach access and short stroll to the medieval core.
4. 🔍Aminess Younique Liburna Hotel
Review score: 8.8 (815 reviews)
Contemporary beachfront hotel overlooking the Old Town, featuring an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and terraces with panoramic views. Great for couples and families wanting leisure amenities and beautiful vistas.
Neighborhood: Peninsula opposite Old Town, 10-minute walk (location 9.4)
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, private parking, Wi-Fi, beachfront, family rooms, airport shuttle, bars and restaurants, buffet breakfast.
Why it stands out: Offers the best panoramic views of Korčula’s skyline from its pool and terraces.
5. 🔍Tara’s Lodge
Review score: 9.3 (334 reviews)
Boutique beachfront hotel in a tranquil cove near Korčula Town, offering stylish rooms and a relaxed seaside bistro. Perfect for couples or small families looking for peace, design, and sea access.
Neighborhood: Žrnovo coastal area, short drive or walk to town
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free parking, Wi-Fi, beachfront, family rooms, airport shuttle, breakfast with vegetarian and vegan options.
Why it stands out: Combines boutique design and a private-beach atmosphere for a peaceful island escape.
Top Rated Villas in Korčula
1. 🔍Green Garden House
Review score: 10.0 (23 reviews)
Located in the quiet village of Žrnovo, about 3.5 km from Korčula Old Town, this charming stone house features a private pool, shaded garden, and barbecue area. Ideal for families or friends seeking peace and space close to town.
Neighborhood: Žrnovo (Kampus area)
Key facilities: Outdoor swimming pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, barbecue, pet-friendly.
Why it stands out: A peaceful island retreat with a private pool just minutes from the Old Town.
2. 🔍Villa Mara – Casa Rustica
Review score: 10.0 (11 reviews)
A beautifully designed three-bedroom villa with a heated pool and landscaped garden in Žrnovo. Combines rustic charm with modern comfort, perfect for families or small groups.
Neighborhood: Žrnovo, around 2 km from Korčula Old Town
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, barbecue area.
Why it stands out: Consistently rated 10 out of 10 for its boutique design and peaceful setting.
3. 🔍Casa Katina
Review score: 10.0 (8 reviews)
Spacious four-bedroom stone house located on the edge of Korčula Old Town. Offers generous living space and easy access to beaches, shops, and restaurants—excellent for families and groups.
Neighborhood: Near Luka Korčulanska Beach and the Old Town gate
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, washing machine.
Why it stands out: Perfect combination of central location and large, comfortable interiors.
4. 🔍Vacation House Marija, Korčula
Review score: 9.8 (10 reviews)
Two-bedroom holiday home with a sea-view terrace and peaceful atmosphere. Guests love its quiet setting near the sea, just a short walk from the historic center.
Neighborhood: Babina Street, west side of Korčula Town
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, terrace, barbecue.
Why it stands out: Stunning sea-view terrace and relaxing ambiance within walking distance of Old Town.
5. 🔍Villa Gabriela
Review score: 9.6 (6 reviews)
Beachfront four-bedroom villa with a pool, hot tub, and fitness area just steps from the promenade. Ideal for families or groups wanting modern luxury close to the Old Town.
Neighborhood: Put Svetog Nikole, near Ispod Duvana Beach
Key facilities: Outdoor pool, beachfront, free parking, free Wi-Fi, hot tub, fitness room, family rooms.
Why it stands out: Combines luxury amenities and seafront location with direct access to Korčula’s historic core.
Top Rated Apartments in Korčula
1. 🔍Leut Apartment
Review score: 9.6 (65 reviews)
Located in the Old Town, this stylish one-bedroom apartment features stone walls, modern furnishings, and a fully equipped kitchen with a washing machine. Ideal for couples or solo travelers who want comfort close to beaches and restaurants.
Neighborhood: Steps from Luka Korčulanska Beach and St. Mark’s Cathedral
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, washing machine, private bathroom, non-smoking.
Why it stands out: Central Old-Town setting with home-style comfort and excellent cleanliness.
2. 🔍Apartments Sunny Town
Review score: 9.6 (315 reviews)
Set in the heart of Korčula Old Town, these bright apartments offer kitchenettes and cozy interiors with some balconies overlooking the historic lanes. Best for couples and small families seeking a true Old-Town experience.
Neighborhood: Right by St. Mark’s Cathedral and the Governor’s Tower
Key facilities: Kitchen, free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, family rooms, washing machine (some units), pet-friendly.
Why it stands out: Outstanding location and warm, highly rated hospitality.
3. 🔍Old Town Sea Front M&M Apartment Korčula
Review score: 10.0 (118 reviews)
Romantic beachfront apartment within Korčula’s city walls, featuring sea views, a full kitchen, and modern decor. Perfect for couples looking for a peaceful stay by the water.
Neighborhood: Old-Town seafront, close to beaches and promenade
Key facilities: Free Wi-Fi, free parking, air-conditioning, private bathroom, kitchen.
Why it stands out: Rare perfect rating for its prime waterfront position and style.
4. 🔍Korčula Old Town Marija Apartment
Review score: 9.8 (105 reviews)
Charming and fully equipped apartment in the heart of the Old Town, blending historic character with modern touches. Ideal for couples or travelers wanting to stay steps from the ferry port and historic attractions.
Neighborhood: Near Beach Zakerjan and Bishop’s Treasury
Key facilities: Free parking, free Wi-Fi, beachfront, air-conditioning, private entrance.
Why it stands out: Historic charm combined with comfort and exceptional host service.
5. 🔍Adriatic Pearl Korčula
Review score: 9.6 (104 reviews)
Modern, spacious one-bedroom apartments with balconies and panoramic Old-Town views, located a short walk above the center. Perfect for couples or families who appreciate quiet, parking access, and scenic outlooks.
Neighborhood: Near Banje Beach and Tower of All Saints
Key facilities: Free private parking, fast Wi-Fi, kitchen, balcony or terrace, air-conditioning, washing machine.
Why it stands out: Offers stunning views and parking convenience within walking distance of the Old Town.
Nightlife and easy evenings
Korčula nightlife is relaxed. Summer brings live music on terraces. Stupe has a daytime party feel. In town, wine bars pour Grk, Pošip, and Pelješac reds by the glass. Late nights stay low‑key and friendly.
Nature and archaeology
Kočje Nature Reserve
Near Žrnovo, Kočje hides between mossy boulders and cool gullies. Trails are short. Kids enjoy the rock passages. Wear trainers after rain.
Vela Spila
Above Vela Luka, Vela Spila is a large cave with finds from deep prehistory. The viewpoint looks over the bay. Combine with a late lunch on the waterfront.
Sample itineraries
One perfect day in Korčula Town
Morning: Land Gate, St Mark’s Cathedral, and the Town Museum.
Lunch: Harbour promenade or a shaded courtyard.
Afternoon: Boat to Badija for a swim and a loop walk.
Sunset: Bell tower or the western walls.
Evening: Moreška performance in summer. Nightcap near the marina.
Two to three days on the island
Day 1: Old Town deep dive and Badija.
Day 2: Lumbarda beaches, vineyard tastings of Grk, dinner back in town.
Day 3: South‑coast drive to Pupnatska Luka. Detour to Kočje. Optional Vela Spila if you continue to Vela Luka.
Eating well: simple rules that work
Book sea‑view spots for sunset and fish. Try grilled squid, black risotto, and a plate of local capers. In Lumbarda, match Grk with seafood pasta. Inland, look for slow‑cooked dishes and herb‑scented roasts.
Weather and the best time to visit
Summer is hot and bright, with clear seas and busy ferries. May, June, September, and early October bring warm days and easier reservations. Winter is quiet, with limited boat schedules and shorter opening hours. Spring suits hikers and cyclists.
Practical tips
The Old Town is car‑free. Pack a small bag you can roll or carry.
Shade lives in the narrow lanes. Pause often and hydrate.
Boats to the islets leave from the town quay and Lumbarda.
ATMs are available, but small cafés may prefer cash.
If you plan wine tastings, arrange a taxi or a driver.
Bring water shoes for pebble beaches and stone steps.
Responsible travel on Korčula
Refill a bottle at your stay. Avoid single‑use plastics on boats and beaches. Stay on marked paths at Kočje. In summer, book only what you use. Support small producers and family‑run wineries.
FAQs
How do I reach Korčula from Split or Dubrovnik without a car?
Take a passenger catamaran to Korčula Town (seasonal schedules). From Split many routes include Hvar; from Dubrovnik boats depart Gruž.
Is Korčula Old Town on the UNESCO list?
It is on the UNESCO Tentative List, not fully inscribed. The Old Town is nationally protected and carefully maintained.
Is the Old Town car‑free?
Yes. Park outside the walls and arrange luggage drop‑off with your host.
Which beaches are best near town?
Lumbarda’s Vela Pržina and Bilin Žal for sand; Pupnatska Luka on the south coast for pebbles and deep blue water.
Can I visit Badija, Vrnik, and Stupe without a tour?
Yes. Taxi boats run frequently in season. Off‑season, ask locally—boats may run on demand.
Where can I taste Grk and Pošip?
Grk in Lumbarda’s family wineries; Pošip in Smokvica and Čara. Book ahead in peak months or use a taxi.
When is the Moreška sword dance performed?
Weekly in peak summer, with a key performance in late July. Confirm times at the tourist office.
Plan your island time
Build a two‑day plan with one beach day and one culture day. Add a wine tasting and a sunset boat hop. Book ferries early in summer. Save room in your bag for olive oil and a bottle of Pošip or Grk.
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. This means that we get a small commission from any purchase you make, at no additional cost to you!
