How we enjoy Korčula
These recommendations are based on our personal favorites and travel style — relaxed, family-friendly, budget-conscious, and focused on great food and good value. Everyone’s tastes are different, but these are the places and experiences we genuinely enjoy. We recommend staying in Korčula for at least 7 days. Most visitors who stay less wish they had booked longer — there’s so much to see, do, and explore across the island.
Island Hop
Take a hop-on hop-off taxi boat and explore the beautiful nearby islands of Badija and Vrnik. Spend the day swimming and relaxing at the beach, or visit the monastery on Badija where friendly deer often wander freely around the island — a favorite experience for children and adults alike. You can also take a day trip to Mljet National Park, located just 45 minutes away by boat and known for its salt lakes, pine forests, and peaceful natural scenery. For routes and schedules, visit: Taxi Boat Korčula
Watch a performance
See a live show or performance during your stay. One of our son’s favorites is the Moreška — a dramatic traditional sword dance protected by UNESCO. The story follows a captured princess taken by one army and rescued by another in an exciting battle performance. Throughout the season, you’ll also find classical concerts in the cathedral, folklore dance evenings, local festivals, and other cultural events across the island. Be sure to check the weekly events schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
Walk-Hike-Cycle
There are countless walking, hiking, and biking routes to explore across Korčula Island — perfect for discovering forests, hidden coves, vineyards, and small villages at your own pace. We’ve only recently started exploring more trails ourselves now that the kids have outgrown the stroller, and one of our favorite discoveries so far has been Kocje, a magical natural stone labyrinth tucked into the forest. Korčula was once known as Korkyra Nigra (“Black Corfu”) because of its dense pine forests, and many of the island’s trails still wind through beautifully shaded woodland areas. We also highly recommend the self-guided bike tours from Korčula Explorer. The routes are carefully planned out for you, making it easy to maximize your time while seeing some of the island’s most scenic spots.
Take a Guided Tour
One of the best ways to experience different parts of the island is by joining a guided tour. There’s something for every interest and travel style — from wine tasting and cycling adventures to buggy rides, boat trips, kayaking, walking tours, fish picnics, and even semi-submarine excursions. You’re sure to find an experience that suits you. Try some of these popular local tours: Korčula Wine Tours Korčula Explorer Korčula Buggy Tours Explorer Family Boat
Summer Fridays
Fridays in summer are made for visiting Lumbarda. Spend the afternoon at the beach — Lumbarda is known for its two sandy beaches, Pržina Beach and Bilin Žal Beach, both shallow and ideal for children. There are also quieter rocky spots nearby for those looking for a more peaceful swim. Beachside restaurants and cafés make it easy to stop for a snack or refreshing drink during the day. On Friday evenings, the village comes alive with the Fisherman’s Night in the heart of town. Local specialties such as grilled fish, octopus salad, homemade makaruni pasta, and other Dalmatian dishes are served from small food stands. Running from early June through late September, it’s one of the island’s most memorable summer traditions and not to be missed. Lumbarda is also famous for its local wineries and the unique white Grk wine, a variety grown almost exclusively in this area.
Local Experience
Try a local experience and discover some of the island’s traditions firsthand. Visit OPG Komparak to see the beehives up close and learn how local honey is produced straight from the source. Get hands-on with traditional Dalmatian cuisine through a baking workshop with Škatula or a cooking class with Teta Jera. If you’re feeling creative, join a ceramics workshop at Danesi Studio and make your own unique island-inspired piece to take home.
We're Hungry
We love good food and never like leaving hungry :) Our favorite places are the ones that combine affordable prices, delicious local dishes, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Here are some of our favorites:
a walk away
Worth a Drive
friend faves
- Planjak —daily lunch specials
- Škver —daily lunch specials
- Pizzeria Tesoro
- Pjata Marea
- Bazita
- Marco Polo
- Mlinar Bakery
- Konoba Belin - our go-to place!
- Makarul- our new fav!
- Konoba Mate
- Skafetin
- Gavuni
- Zure
- Dida
- Cakulona
- Konoba Dionis
- Pizzeria Pape
- Aterina (vegetarians)
- Biankura or Adio Mare for fish
Our Tips
Getting Around
- Catamarans connect directly to Old Town from Split and Dubrovnik
- .Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (July-August).
- Local taxis and water taxis are available at the main harbor.
- Buses can take you to Lumbarda.
- There is no Uber on the island.
Local Supplies
- Konzum and Tommy hypermarkets are located within a 5-minute walk.
- The morning vegetable market near the old town gate offers fresh local produce.
- Pekara (bakeries) are open early for fresh bread and burek.
Beach Etiquette
- Rocky shores are common; water shoes are highly recommended.
- Lumbarda features rare sandy beaches—perfect for families.Pack sunscreen.
Guest Comfort
- Water from the tap is safe and high quality across the island.
- Most shops and restaurants accept cards, but keep some Euro cash for small cafes and some restaurants.