If you believe local legend, Marco Polo was born on Korcula, the forested island off the coast of Dubrovnik. True or not, the laid-back island is certainly fit for an explorer, with pine-clad hills giving way to sunny vineyards, olive groves, and miles of sandy beaches and secluded coves. Boat cruises and island-hopping tours bring day-trippers to the island, but there are enough things to do on Korcula to stick around longer. Explore the medieval walled city of Korcula Town, go wine tasting, and enjoy cycling, kayaking, or snorkeling.
The summer months of July and August see huge crowds descend on Korcula, and accommodation prices often shoot up in Korcula Town. However, it’s still worth braving the crowds to experience the Marco Polo Festival in July or watch the traditional summer Moreška sword dance performances. Alternatively, visit in the fall (September and October), when the crowds have died down, the wine and olive harvests are in full swing, and it’s often still warm enough for the beach.
Most visitors arrive on Korcula by boat and take in the highlights on a guided tour, but if you’re staying longer, it’s best to have your own means of transport. The island is about 25 miles (40 kilometers) long, so while a car can be useful for exploring off the beaten track, renting an e-bike is a popular choice. The island has limited public transport, but there are buses between Korcula Town, Lumbarda, and Vela Luka in the high season.
Don’t spend all your time in Korcula Town. On the island’s west coast, the port town of Vela Luka offers a laid-back atmosphere and a more local vibe. From there, take a boat cruise to the islets of Proizd and Osjak, where you can swim and snorkel; hike up to the cave of Vela Spila, a fascinating archeological site; or visit a traditional olive mill for an olive oil tasting.
