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Bucket list experience:

Last updated: 10 November, 2022
Expert travel writer: Jane Foster

A picture-perfect walled town, set on an oval-shaped swathe of land surrounded on three sides by the crystalline Peljesac channel, Korcula Town is one of the most beautiful in the Croatian archipelago.

Famous for its elegant Venetian mansions and the narrow medieval alleyways that branch off the main pedestrianised street, this is a place to wander and soak up the history – including the house where explorer Marco Polo is said to have been born.

While you’re there

It’s definitely worth visiting on a Thursday and staying on to see the traditional Moreška Sword Dance, a medieval dance performed in traditional costume, which takes place from May to October at 9pm next to the Land Gate.

Price: Free
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 13+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

There are regular car ferries between Split and Vela Luka on the west side of Korcula island. From there, buses make the journey to Korcula Town (one hour). Taxis are available at the port, and take around 40 minutes.

Start by wandering the 26 narrow cobbled streets that wind off from the Old Town’s main artery, then head to St Mark’s cathedral; climb up the belltower for lovely views across the terracotta rooftops.

Then drop into Marco Polo’s birthplace and St Mark’s Abbey Treasury, which houses an impressive collection of icons and Dalmatian religious art, before settling in at the Tramonto Café terrace (Ismaelli 12) for a sundowner.

For dinner you won’t do much better than Konoba Marinero (Ulica Marka Andrijica 13), known for serving the best seafood in town, including delicious lobster spaghetti and fresh sea bass.

When to do it

Korcula Town is accessible all year, but in the winter months most of the restaurants and cafes are shut and it is extremely quiet.

The best time to visit is in the spring and autumn; in July and August the town gets over-run with visitors and temperatures can be too hot to enjoy exploring.

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Our writer’s picks of the best places to stay near this experience, closest first

Lesic Dimitri Palace

Korucla, Dalmatia, Croatia[0.1 miles]

Boutique aparthotel combining low-profile luxury, a Michelin-starred restaurant and a small spa, in Korcula’s medieval-walled old town.

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Hvar, Dalmatia, Croatia[51.9 miles]

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