Discover a tranquil Croatian island where centuries-old villages sit within picturesque vineyards and the gentle, crystal-clear waters are simply irresistible.
Korčula is the sixth-largest island in Croatia, yet it has managed to stay somewhat under the tourism radar. It is a delightful step back in time, a place where little villages sit within rolling vineyards and olive groves, and the beaches and shimmering waters are as pretty as a postcard. Explore the natural beauty, history and culture of this Dalmatian island and discover authentic Croatia.
The island measures just 29 miles (47 kilometers) long and about 5 miles (8 kilometers) wide. Yet within the undulating landscape is a wealth of places to visit. Begin in Korčula Town, where medieval squares, churches, palaces and houses are squeezed into cobbled streets. See the slender bell tower of St. Mark’s Cathedral towering over the medieval town walls and the Pelješac Channel. Be sure to visit the Town Museum, too.
Outside of Korčula Town the main resorts are Vela Luka and Lumbarda. Vela Luka is famous for the Vela Spila Cave and the magical offshore islet of Proizd, a paradise with clean waters and perfect beaches. Lumbarda, meanwhile, is a small town that is believed to be the oldest on the island. Explore the surrounding vineyards and try grk, a unique dry wine which can only be produced from grapes grown in the sandy soils here.
Get out and explore the dark pine forests, vineyards and ancient villages for which Korčula is famous. Visit the hilly region of Žrnovo and take a dip in the small shingle cove of Bačva Beach. Pupnatska Luka near Pupnat village is another must-see beach fringed by pine trees.
Korčula is scattered with excellent wineries. Smokvica and Čara, however, are two of the main wine-making regions. Enjoy tasting the unique local wines and exploring the cobbled lanes of Smokvica Town with its old buildings with red-tiled roofs.
Reach Korčula by flying into Split or Dubrovnik then taking a ferry. The island’s main port for car ferries is Vela Luka. During the summer months there are dozens of ferries daily, with passenger ferries stopping in Korčula Town.