Korcula Island in Croatia

Populated with olive groves, dense pine forests and quiet sandy beaches, Korcula Island has everything you need for a trip of a lifetime. Whether you want to whisk your partner off for a romantic getaway or take the whole family on a snorkelling adventure, you can do it all right here.

Just 20 miles long and five miles across, it really is a mini paradise. Folk music carries through the streets while medieval walls stand proudly in the Old Town. If you're hoping to enjoy a swim in the sea, plan your visit in the summer. Or, if you'd rather escape the tourists, an autumn or winter trip offers peace and quiet across the island. There's plenty to see and do in Korcula Island, so let's dive in.

Travelling to the island

Before we get into the good stuff, let's take a moment to figure out how you're going to get to the island. As you can imagine, getting there requires a boat. So, pick up your luggage and catch a taxi to Split on the Croatian coast.

From there, you can board a car ferry that will take you to Vela Luka on the west coast of Korcula. The journey takes around three and a half hours. So, why not make the most of your time at sea and breathe in the fresh air while you try and spot an octopus or squid bobbing past.

Don't have the time to spare? Cut your journey by taking a catamaran from Split via Hvar, which only takes an hour and 45 minutes.

Explore the Old Town

Culture junkies will feel the pull to the Old Town as soon as they set foot on the island. Often referred to as Little Dubrovnik, you'll quickly find yourself swept up in the historical magic of the island.

To explore the 13th century Old Town, you've got to go through the Land Gate entrance. You'll know you've taken the right route when you see an idyllic peninsula of whitewashed houses topped with fiery roofs. Korcula's ancient fort still stands, showcasing an intimidating 12m-high stone barrier wall that was designed to keep pirates at bay. In the heart of the island stands the magnificent 15th-century St Mark's Cathedral.

Climb to the top of the bell tower for sensational views across the bay. If you want to learn more about the history of Korcula, you won't have to travel far. Just a stone's throw away in the opposite direction is the Korcula Town Museum. Here, you'll spend time getting to know the local culture as you explore four floors of island history.

Feast like a king

Rich in vineyards, you can't visit the island of Korcula without trying some of the fine wine. Grapes from the vineyards close to the villages of Smokvica and Cara make a delicate white wine. You can taste it, along with a range of others, with a classic wine tasting experience.

If you're a foodie, you'll find a delicious haven of tastes and alluring smells throughout the village. Whether you want to munch out on the beach, snack on seafood dishes in a classy restaurant or enjoy a tasty family barbecue, Korcula cuisine has something for everyone.

Fun on the beach

Korcula Island is home to a selection of beautiful beaches. If you want to put a towel down and sunbathe for a while, head to the southern part of the island. Here, you'll find soft sandy beaches with clear sea water as far as the eye can see. And, if you prefer to get ”away from it all', pack up your beach bag and nestle yourself in one of the island's isolated bays for some alone time.

If you're looking for some excitement, go snorkelling to explore the diverse marine life. Or, keep the fun above the water's surface with an afternoon of sailing or windsurfing with friends. Sea fishing excursions are also on the table.

But, for a real family adventure, give them an underwater experience they'll never forget with a semi-submarine ride. Observe the deep blue sea from a comfy cabin seat. Snap some incredible photos to add to your family album or share with them with friends via Instagram.

Discover the wild side of Korcula

Korcula Island is almost submerged in dark pine forests and lush countryside. Explore it on foot or embark on an exciting mountain bike tour of the island. Take the beaten track and go hiking up the hills near Korcula Town and take in the outstanding views from the top. Tired of walking? Book yourself a fun Buggy Tour and wind along gravel roads with your travelling companion.

More Things To Do ideas

Find more Things To Do in Croatia: Croatia National Park | Hiking In Croatia | Mljet Island | Nightlife Croatia | Plitvice Lakes National Park