Best Korcula Things to Do: Ultimate Island Guide

Korcula Island has a distinct charm that sets it apart from the rest of Croatia, and the list of things to do is endless. If you’re planning a trip, this guide will show you the best Korcula things to do so you can see for yourself why this island is so special.

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Korcula Island was my second stop, right after taking the ferry from Dubrovnik, and the difference was pretty noticeable. Dubrovnik was stunning but super busy, full of tourists everywhere. To me, Korcula felt like the opposite — calm, quiet, and relaxed, even in the middle of peak summer. That slower pace made it so easy to fall in love with the island.

In this post, I’ll share the best things to do on the island of Korcula. From getting lost in the streets of Korcula Old Town to finding the best places to swim, eat, and enjoy the island. I’ll also cover the best time to visit and the best way to experience everything this hidden gem has to offer.

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A Little Bit About Korcula Island

The island of Korcula is one of Croatia’s true hidden gems in the Adriatic Sea, and for me, it was such a pleasant surprise! It’s big enough to explore but still has that quiet, laid-back vibe where you can slow down and really enjoy the moment. It is also sometimes called “little Dubrovnik” because of its medieval charm and stone walls.

If you’re putting together your own Korčula travel guide, this is definitely a place that deserves a spot on your list.

What makes this beautiful island so special is a mix of gorgeous landscapes, rich history, culture, and delicious local cuisine. To me, it felt different in the best way, and it quickly became one of my favorite spots on the Adriatic Sea.

A Little Bit About Korcula Old Town

And then there’s Korčula Town, a medieval old town with stone streets, little squares, and spectacular views of the sea. It’s such a perfect place to wander, grab a coffee, or just enjoy the slower pace. I loved every minute of it!

Beyond the charming old town, there are also hidden coves and some of the best beaches in Croatia. 

Wine Tasting on Korcula Island

Korcula island is actually really famous for a unique local wine like Grk and Pošip, which you can try at cozy, family-run vineyards. So if you’re a wine lover, you’ll be in paradise here! Wine tasting on Korcula feels so personal and authentic, especially at the family-owned vineyards.

Between the history, beaches, and good food, this gorgeous Croatian island has just the right mix to keep things exciting but not overwhelming.

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Where to stay on Korcula Island?

15 Top Korcula Things to Do

Now that you know a little about the island of Korcula, let’s dive into the fun part, the experiences that make it so special. 

Think of this as your mini Korčula Island travel guide with all the top things I don’t think you’ll want to miss. For me, the highlights were wandering the old Korčula Town, relaxing on some of the best beaches, enjoying wine tasting, and taking a day trip to the nearby small islands. There’s honestly plenty to do while still enjoying the island’s laid-back vibe.

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1. Top Korcula Things to Do: Explore Korcula Old Town

Korcula Old Town is the heart of the island and such a beautiful place to explore and start with. I loved walking through the winding, narrow streets of the medieval old town, with little squares, stone houses, and sea views at almost every turn. Walking here feels like I’ve stepped back in time.

Some of the highlights include the Kanavelić Tower, the Marko Polo House, the Bishop’s Treasury, St. Mark’s Cathedral, the Church of St. Peter, and even a set of ancient stairs that add to the charm. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours wandering, stopping for coffee, and just enjoying the atmosphere.

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2. Top Korcula Things to Do: Visit Marco Polo House

Korčula is believed to be the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo, and you can visit a small museum dedicated to him in the Old Town. The Marco Polo House isn’t very big, but it’s interesting to see the exhibits, climb up to the viewing terrace, and learn a little about his story. It’s a quick stop, but a fun one if you’re already exploring the town.

3. Top Korcula Things to Do: See St. Mark’s Cathedral

Right in the heart of the old town is the famous St. Mark’s Cathedral, which is the most important church on the island. I really loved the detailed stonework outside, and the Gothic-Renaissance style makes it really stand out.

The bell tower was a highlight for me! Make sure to climb to the top, you’ll see the most beautiful views of the town and the Adriatic Sea. Inside, the cathedral is quiet and filled with impressive artwork. If you are wandering the streets of the old town, I definitely recommend stepping into the Cathedral of Saint Mark.

4. Top Korcula Things to Do: Visit Ismaelli Street Gallery Wall

The Ismaelli Street Gallery Wall is a charming little street just a short walk from St. Mark’s Cathedral in the main town. This was my favorite street on the Island! It’s decorated with colorful artwork and displays that give it such a unique character. 

Our accommodation was right on this street, and it was such a delight to pass by the gallery wall every day. It’s a small detail, but it added so much charm to our stay on the Korčula island.

5. Top Korcula Things to Do: Stay a Few Days

Because it’s a small town, many people only come to Korčula, Croatia on a day trip. But I think this gorgeous Croatian island deserves a few days or nights. Staying longer gives you time to wander the charming old town.

You will get to try some of the best restaurants, relax on hidden coves and even a couple of sandy beaches, and enjoy the slower pace of life on the Dalmatian Coast.

For me, the island felt even more special once the day-trippers left and the evenings were calm and quiet.

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6. Top Korcula Things to Do: Go Island Hopping

One of the best ways to experience the Croatian islands around Korčula is to go island hopping. I loved it, it was such a fun way to see more of the area.

You can book an organized island-hopping tour where everything is planned out and a tour guide shows you around, or you can just take water taxis on your own. If you’re making a list of the Korcula things to do, this should definitely be on it.

There’s a small kiosk just outside the Old Town city walls where you can buy a ticket for the passenger ferry. A daily pass costs about €20 and gives you unlimited rides. You can hop between the small islands by water taxis and enjoy a full day exploring the best islands along the Dalmatian Coast.

First Island Hoping Stop: Badija Island

My first stop was Badija Island, and I loved it. A few of the highlights here are the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery and lots of deer that roam freely across the island. Since the island is car-free, I was able to explore it easily on foot. The views from Badija are beautiful, with clear waters and the old town of Korcula in the distance. It’s a great place to relax, swim, or just enjoy the surroundings.

Second Island Hopping Stop: Vrnik Island

My next stop on the water taxi was Vrnik. This is one of the small islands that felt very quiet and peaceful. There’s a little restaurant and a few sun loungers set right by the water — perfect for a lazy afternoon. Vrnik doesn’t have much going on, and that’s exactly what makes it so charming — I loved that about it!

Third Island Hopping Stop: Lumbarda

My last stop was Lumbarda. It’s a coastal village with sandy beaches, which is pretty rare on the Dalmatian Coast. The beach by the marina is family-friendly, with shallow water, a small playground for kids, and even a beach bar. I thought it was definitely more lively than the other islands and a fun spot if you’re looking for a social beach vibe.

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7. Top Korcula Things to Do: Have a Drink at Massimo Cocktail Bar

I loved going to Massimo Cocktail Bar — it’s such a great place for drinks with spectacular views. This unique rooftop bar is located inside one of Korčula’s medieval towers, and has a very memorable entrance!

To reach the top, I actually had to climb through a little hole in the roof! When you order a drink, it’s sent up in a cage by rope, which just adds to the uniqueness and fun factor!

Once I made it up, the views over Korčula Town and the Adriatic Sea were incredible. It was the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail at sunset. Just be prepared — it can get really windy!

8. Top Korcula Things to Do: Climb up to Korcula Viewpoint

There’s a gorgeous viewpoint that’s literally called the Korcula Viewpoint. This was definitely my favorite view and one of the best places on the island to see Korčula Town, the streets of the old town, and the Adriatic Sea all at once.

You don’t need to climb the highest point to get beautiful views; this spot wins for both convenience and looks. It’s easy to get to and totally worth it.

To get here, you can walk up from Korcula Old Town, which takes about 10 minutes, or if you’re renting a car to explore, come here first thing in the morning. (When I drove, there was plenty of parking.)

If you’re making a list of the top Korcula things to do, this should be near the top!

Top Tip: If you rent a car overnight, this is actually a perfect place to park for free instead of paying the high prices in town.

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9. Top Korcula Things to Do: Swim at Pupnatska Luka Beach

This was my favorite beach! Pupnatska Luka Beach is often called one of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Korčula, and I absolutely agree.

The beach itself is pebbly, tucked in a cove surrounded by cliffs and greenery. It has beautiful, calm, and clear waters that make you want to go right in. We rented two loungers and an umbrella for €25 (cash only). The restaurant and beach bar do take credit cards, though, which makes it easy if you stay for food.

It’s about a 25-minute drive from Korčula Old Town or around 20 minutes from the Korčula Viewpoint. The beach is a little off the beaten path, and the road down is winding, but once you arrive, it feels like a private escape on the Dalmatian Coast. There’s a small beach bar where you can grab a drink or snack, and tons of space to spend the whole afternoon relaxing and swimming. 

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10. Top Korcula Things to Do: Visit Žitna Bay

Žitna Bay is a small but stunning beach with crystal clear sea and that amazing blue water that reminded me of the beaches in Greece. Because it’s quite small, it can get busy, so I’d recommend coming early. Parking is limited, but if you’re there in the morning it’s not a problem. From the parking area, it’s about a 5-minute walk down the road and stairs to reach the beach.

The beach is pebbly with some stones and sand in the water, and it slopes gently, which makes it great for families. There are no cafés, shops, or chair rentals here, so be sure to bring your own food, drinks, and anything you’ll need for shade. I thought it was an awesome spot to swim, relax, and even snorkel. There’s also plenty of marine life if you bring your gear.

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11. Top Korcula Things to Do: Visit Vela Luka

On the western end of the island, about a 45-minute drive from the old town of Korcula, is Vela Luka. It’s the second biggest town on the island, and it has a completely different vibe from Korcula Old Town — much more local and low-key. I really enjoyed the beautiful waterfront promenade which had tons of cafés and restaurants. It’s a nice place to take a walk or have lunch by the sea. 

From here, you can also catch passenger ferries and water taxis out to smaller bays and islands nearby, if you want to do more exploring. It’s not as polished as Korčula Town, but that’s what makes it feel authentic and worth visiting. You can also catch the ferry to Proizd Island from there.

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12. Top Korcula Things to Do: Take a ferry Proizd Island

From Vela Luka, I took the ferry out to Proizd Island, which is often described as one of the most beautiful spots near Korčula. Tickets are €15 per person round trip, and the ride takes around 40 minutes. Parking by the Vela Luka port was easy — there’s a lot right by the marina, so no stress there.

Once I arrived on the island, I spent time exploring and walking to a few different beaches. They’re all within walking distance of each other, and because the island is so quiet, it felt like I had the place to myself.

Many people come here for the remote, untouched feel and the gorgeous turquoise water, and it’s often described as one of the best islands to visit off the Dalmatian Coast.

My Honest Take on Proizd Island

But here’s my honest take: as beautiful as the blue water is, Proizd Island just wasn’t for me. There’s only shade on one beach, the landscape is bare with no amenities, and the beaches have large rocks so it’s impossible to set up an umbrella. On top of that, there was an insane amount of bees — and since someone in our family is allergic, it quickly turned into a disaster. Walking between the beaches honestly felt like wandering through an episode of Lost.

I know a lot of people absolutely love Proizd, and I can see why if you’re looking for somewhere extremely remote and quiet. For us though, it just didn’t click, and that’s okay — not every stop has to be everyone’s favorite. But I wanted to include this island in case it’s something you’d like to try or at least keep as an option.

Important thing to know before going: bring tons of water, snacks, lunch, and shade with you. There is a restaurant on the island, but it’s expensive, so it’s better to come prepared.

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13. Top Korcula Things to Do: Spot the Medieval Towers

Korčula town is surrounded by a few medieval towers, and I thought it was pretty cool spotting them as I walked around.

Some of the most famous are the Veliki Revelin Tower, which you pass through when entering the old town. Others, like the tower with Massimo Cocktail Bar, are fun to climb for the views. These towers add so much character to the town and a real sense of history.

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14. Top Korcula Things to Do: Visit Korcula Town Museum

The Korcula Town Museum is inside the Gabrielis Palace, a beautiful building from the 16th centuries located right on the main square. Honestly, the palace itself is worth seeing with its stone staircase and Gothic-style windows.

Inside, the museum has a mix of exhibits that tell the story of Korčula through the centuries. There are artifacts from the ancient Greeks and Romans, old maps, shipbuilding tools, and even pieces that highlight Korčula’s tradition of stone masonry. 

It’s not a huge museum, but it gives you a nice overview of the island’s past and makes for an interesting stop while exploring the old town.

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15. Top Korcula Things to Do: Watch the Moreska Sword Dance

Korčula is also famous for the Moreska, a traditional sword dance that’s been performed here for centuries. It tells the story of two armies battling over a princess, with dancers in costumes clashing swords in rhythm to music.

You can usually catch a performance in Korčula Town during the summer months, especially around festivals. It’s a unique cultural tradition that you won’t find anywhere else in Croatia.

Final Thoughts on Korčula

Korčula really has it all — history, beautiful viewpoints, great food, wine, and some of the best beaches on the Dalmatian Coast. It’s a small town but has tons of character, and the mix of stone walls, narrow streets, medieval towers, and the laid-back island vibe makes it a place you don’t forget.

Whether you spend a couple of days here or even longer, there’s plenty to keep you busy while still feeling relaxed. I loved exploring Korčula Old Town and hopping over to the nearby small islands. This is one of those destinations that felt truly special the moment I arrived. If you’re making your list of Korcula things to do, you’ll quickly see there’s more here than you might expect.

I hope this Korčula travel guide helps you plan your trip and gives you an idea of just how much this island has to offer. For me, Korčula was such a memorable stop in Croatia — and I’m sure you’ll love it too!

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Korcula

When is the Best Time to Visit Korcula?

Choosing the right time to visit can really shape your Korcula experience. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

April, May, September and October: Shoulder Season 

The shoulder season is a great time to visit Korčula. The weather is still warm and sunny, but the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. It’s easier to find tables at the best restaurants, enjoy the beaches, go wine tasting, and explore Korcula Old Town at a slower pace. Walking along the town walls and down the main street feels much more relaxed without the peak-season rush.

June – August: Peak Season

The summer season is the busiest in Korcula, with long days, hot weather, and more tourists. This is when the city is at its liveliest, but also the more crowded and expensive. If you visit during this time, plan to start your sightseeing early in the morning to avoid the midday heat. Since its high season, you’ll want to book hotels, restaurants, and cable car tickets well in advance.

November – March: Off-season

The off-season is much quieter, and some attractions, shops, and restaurants may close or run on limited hours. But if you don’t mind cooler weather and want to avoid the crowds, this can be a quiet time to explore the streets of the old town. Just keep in mind that boat trips and swimming spots might not be available during these months.

How to get around Korcula?

A great way to get around Korčula, especially in the old town, is just by walking. It’s a small town, and most of the main sights are close by. I had no problem getting around on foot. You don’t need public transport to explore the center — the narrow streets, stone alleyways, and little squares are best enjoyed this way.

You’ll likely enter through the Veliki Revelin Tower, which is the main entrance into the old town through the town walls. From there, it’s easy to reach the main street.

If you’re staying outside of town or want to visit beaches and wineries around the island, you’ll need a car, scooter, or bike. Public buses do run, but having your own transport makes it much easier to explore at your own pace. Water taxis are also a fun option if you’re planning to hop over to nearby beaches or small islands.

Is Korcula safe to visit?

From all the Croatia towns I visited — including Korcula Island— safety was never something I had to worry about. Korcula especially felt like one of the safest places. It’s the kind of small town where people leave their bags on the beach or at a café table without stressing. I didn’t notice or hear of any pickpockets here, which is so different from bigger European cities where you always need to stay alert.

Everyone we met in Korcula was friendly and welcoming, and the streets of the old town were clean and well cared for. The whole island has a calm, easygoing vibe that makes it simple to just enjoy your time without being on guard.

Language, do I need to speak Croatian?

I didn’t need to worry about speaking Croatian when visiting Korcula. Most people speak English very well, and we never had any language barrier during our trip. In restaurants, shops, and even small local places, communication was always easy.

That said, it’s always respectful to learn a few basic Croatian phrases like “hello” (bok), “thank you” (hvala), and “goodbye” (doviđenja). Locals really appreciate when visitors make a small effort to use their language.

Are there Good Beaches in Korcula?

Absolutely! Korčula is surrounded by the Adriatic Sea, and there are plenty of amazing spots to swim. That was one of my favorite parts of being on the island!

There is something for everyone, from small coves with crystal-clear waters to bigger beaches with more of a lively vibe. Some are close to Korčula Town, while others are a short drive or a quick ride by water taxi.

Here are a few options to give you an idea:

• Plaža Puntin Beach – near the old town, with calm waters and a great view of the peninsula.
• Zakerjan Beach – right by the old town walls, with spots to jump into the sea.
• Spomenik Beach – a small beach close to the town center, easy to reach on foot.
• Luka Korculanska (near the ACI Marina) – a local spot where people swim right off the rocks.
• Pupnatska Luka Beach – one of the most famous beaches on the island, about a 25-minute drive, with gorgeous, clear waters and a beach bar.
• Žitna Bay – a smaller, more hidden cove with beautiful blue water, about a 30-minute drive.
• Badija Island – reachable by water taxi, with swimming spots, an old Franciscan monastery and tons of deer roaming around.
• Vrnik Island – also a short water taxi ride away, with rocky coves and a quieter more secluded feel.
• Lumbarda – known for its rare sandy beaches, shallow waters, and family-friendly vibe.
• Proizd Island – popular for its wild natural beauty and turquoise sea, reachable by ferry from Vela Luka.

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