Often called “Little Dubrovnik,” Korcula is one of the most beautiful and verdant islands in the Adriatic. It is an island rich in history, legend, and natural beauty, where dense pine forests meet a coastline of secluded coves and pebble beaches. The island’s jewel is the stunningly preserved, fortified medieval town of Korcula, a masterpiece of Venetian architecture and the reputed birthplace of the great explorer Marco Polo. With its ancient traditions, world-class white wines, and romantic atmosphere, Korcula offers a captivating blend of culture and island tranquility.

Name and Location

• Name: Korcula Island.
• Location: An island in the Adriatic Sea, located in the Dubrovnik-Neretva County of southern Dalmatia, Croatia.

How to Get There

As an island, Korcula is accessible only by sea.

• By Ferry/Catamaran: This is the primary mode of transport. High-speed passenger catamarans and car ferries connect the island with Split and Dubrovnik, as well as with nearby ports like Orebić on the Pelješac peninsula.
• By Air: The closest international airports are in Dubrovnik (DBV) and Split (SPU). From either airport, travelers can take a bus or transfer to the port to catch a ferry or catamaran to the island.

Landscape and Architecture

The island is a harmonious mix of lush nature and exquisite Venetian-influenced architecture.

• The Landscape: Korcula is one of Croatia’s greenest islands, nicknamed “The Green Island” by the ancient Greeks. Its interior is covered with dense forests of Aleppo pine, olive groves, and vineyards. The coastline is dramatically indented, creating countless quiet bays, hidden coves, and small, beautiful beaches.
• The Architecture: Korcula Town is a fortified masterpiece, laid out in an ingenious fishbone pattern where the streets branch off a central “spine” to minimize the impact of strong winds. The architecture is dominated by its Venetian heritage, featuring strong defensive walls, round towers, and elegant Gothic-Renaissance palaces and churches built from the local high-quality stone.

What Makes It Famous

Korcula’s fame rests on its historical town, its connection to Marco Polo, and its vibrant traditions.

• Korcula Old Town: The impeccably preserved walled town is a major attraction, offering one of the best examples of a fortified medieval Dalmatian town.
• Birthplace of Marco Polo: The island is widely believed to be the birthplace of the explorer Marco Polo, and visitors can see the house where he supposedly lived.
• Moreška Sword Dance: Korcula is famous for the Moreška, a traditional and dramatic sword dance performed in the summer that reenacts a battle between a White King and a Black King for a princess.
• Fine White Wines: The island is a renowned wine region, particularly famous for its crisp, indigenous white wines like Pošip and Grk.

Differences from Other Wonders

The fortified, historic character of Korcula offers a different island experience from the glamorous, lively feel of Hvar Island.

• Environment (Enclosed Walled Town vs. Open, Glamorous Port): Korcula’s identity is defined by its compact, fortified Old Town with its narrow, stone laneways. Hvar Town is known for its large, open piazza, bustling waterfront promenade (Riva), and a more expansive, glamorous feel.
• Core Story (Medieval Heritage & Marco Polo vs. Venetian Hub & Modern Chic): The story of Korcula is rooted in its medieval past, its defensive design, and its legendary connection to Marco Polo. Hvar’s story combines its history as a strategic Venetian port with its modern identity as a chic, jet-set destination.
• Primary Attraction (Historic Exploration vs. Island Lifestyle & Nightlife): The primary draw of Korcula is the immersive experience of exploring the historic architecture within its walls. Hvar’s main attractions revolve around its vibrant town square, stylish beach clubs, and the nearby Pakleni Islands.
• Atmosphere (Romantic and Reserved vs. Bustling and Fashionable): Korcula tends to have a more romantic, tranquil, and historically focused atmosphere. Hvar is known for its high energy, bustling social scene, and fashionable, cosmopolitan vibe.