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Korcula Island (pronounced kor-chu-la), also called the Emerald Isle, is one among Croatia’s many islands. Situated in Southern Dalmatia, this small, 279-square-kilometer island is a favourite amongst vacationers.
A spot of tradition, historical past, magnificence, and attraction, the island of Korcula presents quite a lot of actions and distinctive traditions all set within the gorgeous Adriatic and blessed by wonderful Korcula climate.
Ferries and buses working from Dubrovnik and Cut up on Croatia’s mainland convey guests to Korcula Island together with non-public sailboats and catamarans. Whether or not you intend to day journey to Korcula Island or keep for a number of weeks, come to the island to benefit from the hidden seashores, pebbly and sandy shores, varied water sports activities, and picturesque views from all instructions.
Earlier than you go to Korcula, ensure to have all of the important journey objects you have to make your vacation that rather more comfy.
Things To See And Do In Korcula Island
Go to Korcula’s Picturesque Previous City
Korcula has obtained the identify “Little Dubrovnik,” and it’s Korcula Previous City that may take the credit score for the nickname. Constructed on a small peninsula jutting into the Peljesac Channel, the medieval walled Previous City boasts the identical picturesque Venetian-style buildings with purple rooftops as Dubrovnik. The town sits on the UNESCO Tentative Listing and is an integral a part of the island’s historical past.
Situated on the middle of this city is St. Mark’s Cathedral, a surprising Gothic-Renaissance-styled church. Constructed on the very best level of the peninsula, the church is crucial constructing in Previous City, so viewing this architectural marvel is important.
A cease on the Korcula City Museum is an thrilling method to be taught concerning the island of Korcula, her historical past, whereas the view of Previous City from inside Marco Polo’s supposed delivery dwelling (see under) can’t be crushed.
After wandering the slender streets, seize a chew to eat at one of many many eating places and cafes, or catch a brand new Hollywood launch or impartial movie on the open-air cinema.
Windsurf On Korcula Island
Some of the fashionable water sport actions in Korcula, due to the fantastic Okayorčula climate, is windsurfing. The island is positioned in a major place to catch the right afternoon Maestral, a summer time wind that enables windsurfers to get pleasure from loads of motion out on the waters. Gliding over the open sea connects friends and locals alike, and all ability ranges are welcome to affix in. Windsurfing colleges supply classes in areas on the island the place the wind is much less intense, and gear designed for learners is accessible to be used at these colleges.
Cycle Korcula Island
Whether or not you’re a biking fanatic or just on the lookout for a leisurely pedal by way of the countryside, Korcula Island is ideal for exploring by bicycle all yr spherical, once more due to the pleasing Okayorčula climate. Bike leases can be found at a number of areas on the island, however must you need slightly extra path, you possibly can be a part of guided bike excursions as effectively.
Heading alongside the southeast shoreline from Korcula City is a superb (and hill-free) route possibility with incredible coastal surroundings and roads that lead by way of the gorgeous Lumbarda winery. Should you’re up for a tougher day on two wheels, this path to the fishing village of Racisce comes extremely really helpful!
Go to Marco Polo’s House
Many imagine that Marco Polo, the well-known world traveler, author, and explorer, was born on Korcula. I, nevertheless, disagree, however you possibly can resolve for your self. Situated on Ulica Depolo avenue, a go to to Marco Polo’s alleged birthplace is one thing historical past and thriller lovers will get pleasure from.
A portion of the home is accessible for friends to discover, and the view from inside over Korcula’s Previous City is kind of spectacular! A small price to enter is required, however kids underneath ten could enter without spending a dime. The house is open from April by way of October for excursions.
Drink Wine & Eat Seafood
Korcula Island’s location makes it good for the 2 nice Croatian gastronomy delights: seafood and wine! Croatia’s southern Dalmatian area is thought for its award-winning wines, and Korcula has the perfect atmosphere for producing two of them – Pošip and Grk. You may order these types of white wine at most eating places on the island, so don’t hesitate to bask in a drink… or two!
Of notable point out is that you’ll not discover Grk wherever else on the earth apart from within the vineyards surrounding Lumbarda. That’s simply another reason to get pleasure from a glass of this well-known wine whereas stress-free on the shores of Korcula Island.
Consuming seafood to your coronary heart’s content material can also be one of the unimaginable issues to do in Korcula Island. Mediterranean recent fish, caught off Korcula’s shores, are ready in native eating places. It’s top-notch consuming each time Croatian seafood is on the menu.
Uncover The Native Beer Scene
The craft beer business is booming all all over the world, and Croatia isn’t any exception. Even Korcula now has its personal brewery and pub! Lovers of the golden liquid will undoubtedly relish the chance to attempt an area Korcula brew. Concurrently, many different bars on the island additionally serve craft beers from elsewhere in Croatia.
Korcula City Museum
Historical past buffs and tradition lovers will relish the chance to go to the wonderful Korcula City Museum. Housed within the lovely Gabrielis Palace, a high-quality instance of 15th- and 16th-century structure on the Previous City’s central sq., it presents an excellent perception into the cultural growth, historical past, and crafts of Korcula.
Unfold throughout 4 flooring, its collections and displays could seem a bit chaotic, however you’ll find a number of distinctive and noteworthy artifacts there. These embody an historic pill that proves the Greeks’ presence on the island way back to the third century B.C. A enjoyable exhibit particulars the historical past of shipbuilding within the space, an business that originated within the 1300s.
Expertise Korcula Island’s Native Tradition
An absolute must-do factor in Korcula is experiencing the standard sword dance and drama referred to as Moreska. Carried out on an open-air stage close to the Previous City, guests can watch this theatrical and cultural dance from the 16th century on Monday and Thursday evenings in the course of the summer time months.
The dance depicts a battle between kings, seven circles of dancers “battling” with swords to the beat of drums, and the sound of bagpipes. A positive crowd pleaser!
One other nice cultural expertise is studying to cook dinner the native specialty of Zrnovksa Makaruni. This dish is comprised of home made pasta formed tubes topped with sauce, considerably just like goulash. The family-run Konoba Belin presents pasta-making classes for these prepared to tackle the culinary problem. Nonetheless, in the event you want to not cook dinner on vacation, we nonetheless recommend making the journey to Žrnovo to do that restaurant’s model of the dish.
Discover The Korcula Shoreline With A Kayak
The crystal-clear Adriatic waters round Korcula beg to be explored by kayak. Few issues are as stress-free and thrilling—similtaneously a day tour with a sea kayak. You may hire a sea kayak in Korcula from a couple of totally different suppliers.
It is a super-fun manner of getting across the island, fairly actually you probably have the time and health. In any case, a kayak provides you the liberty to entry hidden coves, bays, and seashores close to Korcula City which will in any other case be unreachable.
Donkey Safari On Korcula Island
I extremely suggest this in case you are in Croatia with children. Our associates at Korcula Explorer say the Donkey Safari tour is a superb manner to soak up Korcula’s surroundings. Beginning within the city of Žrnovo, experience donkeys by way of the olive groves to the attractive Pavja Luka pebble bay.
Right here you’ll spend the day absorbing the solar, swimming, snorkeling, and even studying that e-book you haven’t discovered time for but. Your group may even get pleasure from a scrumptious lunch of grilled fish and wine – and also you already understand how we really feel about seafood and wine on Korcula Island!
Watch A Korcula Sundown With A Drink
Okay, so it’s cliche, however I don’t care. Sunsets and Croatia are a match made in heaven. Did I but point out the well-known Okayorčula climate? Simply have a look at these 41 gobsmacking sunsets in Croatia and inform me you disagree.
You may benefit from the pleasant mixture of cocktails and sundown views from many vantage factors on the island. One notably nice suggestion is Maksimilijan Backyard. This intimate bar has the most effective Korcula Island views for sundown watching.
Native tip: Strive the home made limoncello.
Go to An Olive Oil Producer
Olive oil from Korcula is on the listing of Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) of the European Fee, which implies it’s of superior high quality and made in line with conventional, genuine strategies.
There aren’t any fewer than ten olive mills on Korcula, along with practically a thousand olive farms! That is one among solely a handful of areas in Croatia that produces olive oils of this sort of high quality. Due to this fact, the most effective issues to do in Korcula is a go to to an area olive farm, the place you possibly can pattern totally different oil varieties. This, after all, additionally makes for an incredible memento.
Go to Seba Dizajn & Admire The Scintillating Filigree Jewelry
I can attest that each time I put on my pair of filigree earrings, handcrafted by the 2 males from Seba Dizajn, everybody asks, “the place did you get them?”.
It’s arduous to think about, however the artist named Doka discovered the artwork of filigree from his father, Gjovalin Seba. The Seba household has a reference to filigree that stretches again an unimaginable 500+ years. Doka and his father work collectively of their studio on Korcula Island so that you could see the boys at work. See extra of Seba on Fb or head to the studio positioned at Ulica de Polo, Korcula, beneath Marco Polo Korcula Tower.
Rent A Scooter
Are you able to say cliche? Who cares! That is at all times a enjoyable method to discover the Croatian islands, so rent a scooter and uncover the island of Korcula at your individual tempo. Scootering choices:
- I’d head to the seashores (see under for some nice ideas, together with fabulous Vaja Seaside)
- Stalk out the locations that develop the Grk grapes
- Take a break from the primary city, search out Smokvica and Cara. Each are two beautiful small villages
- Trip as much as Mount Hum, which is basically only a hill, and take a look at the outdated fort. Native tip: for hikers, you may as well rise up there on foot!
Take A Stroll Throughout Korcula Island
Okay, so not all the best way throughout. Strolling and mountain climbing paths are plentiful on Korcula Island and should result in vital, hidden delights. Should you require solitude or maybe a break from the busy city, put a stroll in your listing of issues to do in Korcula.
Žrnovo, a small village close to Korcula’s city, presents varied trails for all health ranges. A protected panorama, Kocje, lies inside a average 40-minute strolling distance from Žrnovo. This distinctive panorama is stuffed with rock formations and stone mazes for these trying to discover slightly extra. Plus, additionally, you will be capable of get pleasure from some gorgeous views throughout the channel to the Pelješac mainland.
Native tip: Look out for greater than the “common” sights. Take a look at the constructing for its small, almost-missable particulars.
Things To Do In Korcula Island With Youngsters
Croatian seashores are often pebbled, however the village of Lumbarda boasts two incredible sandy seashores. Buckets and spades in hand, it’s time to construct sandcastles at Przina or Bilin Zal seashores, only a 15-minute bus experience from Korcula City. And afterward, it’s time for ice cream! And sure, the island makes some scrumptious gelato. Observe your Croatian and ask for “pola-pola”: half ‘n’ half, two flavors for one’s worth.
Native tip: Constructing sandcastles and consuming ice cream are a number of the many enjoyable issues for teenagers to do in Croatia; listed here are some extra that we propose.
Take A Day Journey
Should you plan to remain on Korcula Island for any size of time, you’ll need to take a day journey and discover Croatia past town. Take a look at these excursions to see which one fits you finest. With these excursions, you possibly can e-book forward, assure your house, and get monetary savings. Alternatively, although, you may as well discover choices once you arrive.
- Korcula Island Snorkeling Journey
- Korcula Island Mountain Bike Tour
- Hvar Yacht Tour from Korcula
- City of Marco Polo Non-public Tour
- Mljet Island Yacht Tour from Korcula Island
Go Scuba Diving
Blessed with a few of Croatia’s most clear waters, Korcula is a dream vacation spot for scuba divers (and snorkelers). Beneath light waves of the comparatively shallow Adriatic Sea across the island, you’ll discover hidden caves, underwater partitions, a number of shipwrecks, and dozens of fish species.
A lot of the fashionable dive websites round Korcula are accessible through a brief boat experience, positioned solely a brief distance from the island. Visibility is sort of at all times phenomenal—you possibly can often see additional than 30 meters (100 ft).
There are a couple of dive middle on the island of Korcula, which provide diving classes and excursions.
Korcula Island’s Finest Seashores
Vela Przina Seaside
Certainly one of Korcula Island’s hottest seashores, for vacationers and locals alike, is Vela Przina Seaside. Discovered within the village of Lumbarda on the southern facet of the island (a 15-minute bus experience from Korcula City), this seashore has lovely, sandy shores and is ready in a big bay providing incredible views of the ocean.
Arrive early to get a great spot, spend the day right here, benefit from the seashore cafes, a sport of sand volleyball, and the radiant sunshine.
Bilin Zal Seaside
The opposite sandy seashore on Korcula Island, Bilin Zal, is about 4 kilometers from Korcula Previous City in Lumbarda. The water just isn’t as crystal-clear right here as a result of sandy backside, but it surely’s that sand that brings locals and vacationers to this seashore for an opportunity to go barefoot onshore and within the sea. And little children love sandy seashores.
The seashore is right for households and younger kids, but it surely’s necessary to notice that no pure shade is accessible at this location, so make sure to pack a pop-up seashore tent like this one! Ought to you end up hungry, Konoba Bilin Zal is the right place to seize a chew to eat.
Pupnatska Luka Seaside
Situated within the bay of Pupnatska Luka, this beautiful small pebble seashore is legendary for swimming. Crystal-clear waters invite locals and vacationers to take a dip, whereas even these wishing to stay dry received’t be disillusioned by the channel’s picturesque views from the shoreline.
With chair and kayak leases, moveable bogs, varied eating places within the bay, and the shut proximity to Korcula City (15 kilometers away), this seashore is extremely family-friendly and one of many extra fashionable seashores on Korcula Island.
Vaja Seaside
Situated a brief 15-minute stroll from the fishing village of Rasisce is the gorgeous Vaja Seaside. Should you love the distinction of lovely white pebbles and the azure sea, this picturesque seashore is for you. Small and hidden, we dare say remoted, this seashore will convey out the romantic in you.
Vaja Seaside is ideal in case you are on the lookout for an opportunity to skip the crowds, discover some solitude, and join with the water and solar. The seashore entry consists of strolling up a hill on the finish of the Racisce harbor, adopted by a climb down a steep slope. Those that are prepared to tackle the problem will likely be rewarded with the views!
Korcula Archipelago Seashores
Principally undiscovered by vacationers, the Korcula Archipelago presents quite a few distant and hidden pebble or rocky swimming areas. For those that like to snorkel, dive, or just dwell for the journey of feeling such as you’re in undiscovered territory, these seashores make for the right getaway.
To get to the Archipelago, you possibly can rent a water taxi (year-round). As soon as there, hunt to your good little spot of shoreline, take within the wide-open views and simply breathe.
The place To Keep In Korcula
We created an in depth listing of the place to remain in Korčula, Croatia. We listing one of the best accommodations in Korčula for you. We’ve lined all of the bases from luxurious 5-star all the best way right down to the extra budget-friendly flats and hostels.
You could find our information on the place to remain on Korcula right here.
Finest Locations To Eat And Drink In Korcula
Finest Eating places in Korcula
Planjak
Providing beneficiant parts which can be straightforward on the finances, Planjak is a favourite of locals and guests. Present in Korcula City, simply steps from the Korcula ferry terminal, seize a seat underneath the shaded terrace and revel in grilled fish and meats, beer, and wine. Our associates at Korcula Explorer have instructed the bread-crumbed haddock, pasticada, and stuffed peppers.
Simunovo
About 5 kilometers from the fishing village of Zrnovo, one can find this native family-run konoba. Savor conventional greens, meats, fish, and wines whereas having fun with views of the Korcula Channel and Defore slopes on the restaurant’s terrace. Native meals at unbeatable costs!
Buffet Pizzeria Amfora
Buffet Pizzeria Amfora is an unpretentious pizzeria discovered within the slender streets of the Previous City. Not solely are you able to order a number of the finest pizza on the island right here, however the menu additionally presents different nice choices like mussels and chips or wok shrimp. A enjoyable concept: order your meals to-go to catch a superb sundown whereas savoring pizza made to perfection.
Restaurant Filippi
The most effective-rated eating places on Korcula Island, Restaurant Filippi, lies on the Petar Kanavelic walkway in Korcula City. Its tables are positioned instantly above the water, providing really exceptionally sea views. Meals-wise, this is a superb place for conventional Dalmatian delicacies based mostly on recent herbs, greens, seafood, and pasta. For a mouthwatering, wholesome, and visually engaging dinner, that is a sexy choice to have.
Adio Mare – Konoba Komin
Adio Mare is without doubt one of the oldest eating places on the island, positioned within the Previous City’s coronary heart. Take pleasure in scrumptious and high-quality Dalmatian delicacies, recent fish, and grilled meats whereas admiring the terrace’s views or watching the motion within the open-plan kitchen. Be sure you make a reservation for this one!
Ice Cream & Espresso Bars On Korcula Island
Café Bar Servantes
Café Bar Servantes is an iconic place to get pleasure from your morning cup of joe. This family-run café has been round for the reason that 1970s and serves a number of the finest cappuccino and espresso on the island. Situated at Punta Jurana in Korcula City, it’s an incredible place to people-watch. Cocktails are additionally out there right here within the evenings.
Pizza Café Sveti Nikola
Because the identify suggests, this café serves scrumptious pizza, however past the meals, they provide wonderful coffees, teas, and beer with a view that may’t be crushed. Gaze throughout the bay at Korcula Previous City as you sip your sizzling (or chilly!) beverage. Should you’re on the lookout for free Wi-Fi, you’ll be glad to hook up with it right here!
Café Restaurant Plaza Przina
If you end up at Vela Przina Seaside for the day, Café Restaurant Plaza Przina additionally presents a top-notch espresso choice, together with teas, beer, wine, and ice cream. Cheap costs and free Wi-Fi make this an incredible spot throughout your day within the solar.
Bars On Korcula Island
Massimo Cocktail Bar
Massimo Cocktail Bar is a novel bar, solely accessible by a ladder, so be sure to’re sporting comfy sneakers. It’s discovered on the prime of the Zakerjan Tower (as soon as a part of Korcula’s metropolis partitions).
Drinks arrive on the prime of the tower by a pulley, and friends can order varied brightly coloured drinks whereas taking within the gorgeous sunsets over the ocean. Now, doesn’t drink the highest of a tower in Korcula sound sensible?
Vinum Bonum
If native wine is what you’re after, Vinum Bonum in Punta Jurana is it. Favored by many locals, this little gem has extremely educated employees and small plates of sardines, cheese, or ham to accompany your glass of award-winning island wine.
Cocktail Bar Prvi Zal Lumbarda
If you end up in Lumbarda for the day, Cocktail Bar Prvi Zal Lumbarda serves up some wonderful cocktails. The environment is stress-free, and the employees are pleasant, so benefit from the dwell music and absorb views of the harbor whereas sipping your favourite beverage.
Boogie Jungle
If dancing and nightlife are what you’re after, Boogie Jungle is the island’s taking place membership. Hop on the membership’s complimentary shuttle mini-bus to depart Korcula’s primary streets behind for an evening of consuming, music, and dance at this out of doors venue. Stay D.J.s and different music line-ups fill this membership’s schedule.
Key Festivals & Occasions In Korcula Island
Wine Pageant
Sip the well-known white wines of the island with locals and guests alike to the sounds of dwell music. Wineries supply samples of one of the best wines they’ve out there alongside recent, sizzling bread. Take pleasure in dialog along with your journey companions or locals at this occasion. A pageant to not miss in the event you go to Korcula in July!
Korkyra Baroque Pageant
Should you love Baroque music, this pageant is for you. Considerably new to the island (2012 was the pageant’s debut), this occasion options a number of the world’s main Baroque music specialists within the ensemble and soloist classes. Select any of the live shows to attend over ten days and delight within the music of this era!
Sword Dance Pageant
Held at first of June, this distinctive pageant is one Korcula is legendary for. Whereas the sword dance is carried out on different events, this pageant celebrates the dance with a gap ceremony in Korcula City. In distinction, totally different kinds of the dance are carried out in surrounding villages. Watching one among these performances is a incredible method to expertise native tradition and custom.
Boat Race Kneze
This annual occasion takes place in Korcula every June. Organized by an area racing membership, groups row in conventional boats from Kneza to Korcula City. An thrilling alternative to look at the native sport and expertise a conventional occasion whereas on vacation!
Touring To Korcula Island
Korcula can simply be reached from Croatia’s mainland in the course of the summer time months. Through the low season, connections could be a bit trickier however usually are not unimaginable to search out. Leaving the mainland from both Dubrovnik (skip the crowds for a day!) or Cut up is probably the most handy method to attain the island until you’ve charted a crusing journey ranging from one other location.
Korcula Ferry
Could to October, a ferry from Dubrovnik to Korcula is accessible. All year-round, you possibly can take a ferry from Cut up to Korcula Island or Vela Luka. Direct passenger ferries from Mljet to Korcula run in July and August, and different oblique routes can be found in the course of the different months of the yr.
Native tip: No direct ferries can be found from Vis to Korcula. A cease in both Hvar or Cut up is first wanted in the event you plan to journey from Vis.
Bus
All yr spherical, a coach from Dubrovnik to Korcula travels alongside the coast to a automotive or passenger ferry in Orebic, relying in your desire. A bus from Dubrovnik to Korcula leaves the central Dubrovnik bus station as soon as a day at three pm (topic to vary). It will get you to Korcula Island simply after 6 pm.
The automotive ferry possibility permits passengers to proceed taking the bus as soon as on Korcula Island all the best way to Korcula City and on to Vela Luka if wanted. A bus from Cut up runs to Dubrovnik, and, alternatively, one other originating in Zagreb stops in Cut up with a closing vacation spot of Korcula/Vela Luka (runs by way of the night time).
Automotive
Do you have to need the choice of a automotive or taxi, you may as well drive your self or be escorted by a non-public cab onto the island utilizing the identical Orebic automotive ferry possibility. Search for offers on automotive rental in Croatia right here.
Touring To Additional Locations
Touring on after a go to to Korcula Island is as straightforward as catching any of the ferries or buses that originally acquired you to the island. You’ll most certainly be touring from Korcula to Dubrovnik, Cut up, or someplace alongside the Peljesac Peninsula. Oysters in Ston, anybody?
Have you ever been to Korcula Island, Croatia? What have been your prime issues to do in Korcula? Did we miss any on this listing?
Photograph credit: A particular due to my dearly departed good friend Ruth Seba for giving me a number of of those photographs to make use of.
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