Affectionately known as “Mini Dubrovnik,” Korcula is a strikingly gorgeous Croatian island that offers an authentic, laidback vibe. Whether you’re looking for an easy-breezy escape or an adventure-filled island holiday, you’ll find plenty of interesting things to do on Korcula.

While some of these activities may be reminiscent of the top things to do on Hvar, you’ll quickly discover that Korcula has a magic all its own. Don’t even get me started on the fabulous native wine that’s only cultivated on this island!

Between its many wondrous wineries, fascinating fortified old town, postcard-perfect port, and magnificent mountain backdrops, Korcula is one of the most under-appreciated gems in Croatia.

Luckily for you, I’ve built a career on exposing undervalued destinations in Europe, so with that, let’s get on with some of the best things to do on Korcula!

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Just entering the old city of Korcula is an event within itself! That’s because the main entrance to it is via the regal Veliki Revelin Tower,  a.k.a  the “Tower of the South Land Gate.”

This southern land gate is a symbol of the island. It sits at the base of the infamous medieval tower, allowing visitors to pass through. (There’s a separate entrance on the west side called Primorska Vrata, a.k.a the “Sea Gate.”)

Although this is a common entranceway, most people won’t quickly pop through and be on their way. The steps just so happen to be one of the most popular photo spots in Korcula, so be prepared to wait your turn for a picture.

While I managed to snap a people-free photo here, I had to wait about 15 minutes for people to clear off the steps first. (Plus, my shot was taken at about 10:00AM.)

That all said, getting a photo here is just one of those can’t-miss things to do on Korcula, albeit touristy/cheesy. When in Rome, as they say…

One of the main draws of the island is Korcula Old Town, a picturesque fortified town. A brief stroll through the limestone streets will transport you back to a simpler time.

You could easily spend an hour just wandering through Korcula’s labyrinth!

If getting lost in an unfamiliar city isn’t really your thing, perhaps an organized walking tour would be more your speed.

With its pedestrian-friendly streets and rich history, Korcula is the perfect place to join a walking tour.

Under the direction of an experienced guide, you’ll start the tour at the popular Revelin Tower (mentioned earlier). From here, you’ll stop off at some of the most treasured spots in town, including St. Mark’s Cathedral (mentioned later) and All Saint’s Church. As you stroll, you’ll learn about the island’s history and strategic positioning.

If you prefer traveling on two wheels to navigating on two feet, you’re in luck. That’s because Korcula just so happens to be an excellent place for cycling. The island offers plenty of off-road routes around its various villages.

Whether you’re looking for gentle country lanes to ease back into the sport or you’re seeking the  challenge of climbs with rewarding views, you’ll find it here. Here are a few popular cycling routes to get you started.

You can find plenty of bike rental places throughout Korcula Old Town.

One of my favorite travel experiences – not just in Croatia, but to date – was climbing up the St. Mark’s Cathedral Bell Tower.

Positioned on the old town’s highest point, it offers one of the best panoramic views over the island!

The church itself was built over a whopping period of three centuries and the bell tower was finally completed in 1483.

As you climb, you’ll catch a preview of the view to come from the narrow windows.

There are also some nifty little “pockets” in the walls that you can take shelter in if you need to let others pass – or if you just enjoy tucking yourself away into tiny spaces as much as I do.

Once you reach the top, prepare to be blown away (literally)! It’s ridiculously windy at the top – but the views are pretty swell.

Something that isn’t immediately obvious until you attempt to make the climb up to the bell tower is just how tight of a squeeze it is initially. You’ll be met with a ridiculously narrow spiral staircase at the ground level. I’m talking tighter than a coat of paint on the wall. (Okay, that’s an exaggeration, but it’s not too far off!)

For a point of reference, I’m 5’2 and barely pushing 103 pounds and I was essentially rubbing my body along the walls as I climbed.  Fortunately, after this initial claustrophobic discomfort, things open up (relatively speaking) and then it’s your typical steps up a bell tower until you reach the top.

That said, I would imagine that some people never get beyond the initial climb. Frankly, if you suffer from claustrophobia or have a fear of heights, I would leave this off of your Korcula itinerary. Not to worry; there are plenty of other wonderful views to enjoy on the island!

If you do decide to make the climb, avoid standing too close to the bell at the start of the hour, as it can be quite unpleasant for your eardrums.

There’s an entrance fee of 30HRK (and 15HRK for children) that you’ll pay before you climb.

St. Mark’s Cathedral is located at 20260 in Korcula.

What’s a Croatian island visit without strolling a palm-tree-lined promenade?

Sveti Nikola – a.k.a Put Svetog Nikole – is a postcard-perfect seaside promenade that runs along the water just outside the town square.

Along the water’s edge, you’ll find plenty of ladders and concrete slabs offering easy (and free) swimming access. Whether you’re inspired to take a quick dip in the sea or a long rest on one of the benches lining the promenade, this is the place to do it.

How would you like to sling back a gin and tonic atop a 15th-century fortress?

If I’ve piqued your interest, then you have to pay a visit to Massimo Cocktail Bar.

It’s not hard to see why a visit to Massimo is one of the most popular things to do on Korcula. It’s certainly one of the most unique experiences you can have at a “bar.”

But if somehow the novelty of sipping a drink atop a medieval fortress isn’t enough to get you here, I should probably also mention that drinks are “hoisted” up to you by way of a pulley system…

Pretty sweet, right?

Now for the “bad” news; visiting this cocktail bar will involve a rather unladylike climb up a ladder. Ladies, you may want to reconsider the mini dress for this one. While you’re at it, you should give yourself a drink limit, too. After all, you’ll need to wiggle your way back down that ladder again at some point!

Although the cocktails are a bit pricey compared to what you’d typically pay for a drink on Korcula, you’re ultimately paying for the unforgettable experience.

The bar is open daily from 11AM to 4PM and from 5PM to 1AM.

Massimo Cocktail Bar is located at Šetalište Petra Kanavelića 20260 in Korcula.

If you’re wondering how Korcula earned the nickname “Little Dubrovnik,” this next spot should answer your question!

Running above the town, Novi Put is a stretch of road offering the most spectacular bird’s-eye view over Korcula.

Now, you’ll notice that I said it runs above the town, which can only mean one thing – you’ll need to be up for a bit of hiking in Korcula! While this might sound daunting, you’ll just have to trust me when I tell you it’s worth it.

Plus, there’s a bench at the top overlooking the view if you want to rest and enjoy the sounds of nature.

Fortunately, the hike isn’t impossibly strenuous, but it will involve climbing up a lot of steps. For some context, my husband and I made the climb in the August heat before rushing to catch a bus to Lumbarda. And hey, I survived to tell the tale!

In all seriousness, it’s really not too bad, especially if you’re able to take your time and stop off to enjoy the views along the way.

And speaking of views, if you’re visiting Korcula from Dubrovnik (or vice versa), don’t miss out on walking the Walls of Dubrovnik, one of the most popular activities in the city!

From Korcula Old Town, you’ll head along Sveti Nikola (by the beaches) until you reach a set of stairs about 100 meters from the town. As you head up the stairs, bear right up Ulica Bernarda Bernardi and continue to climb until you reach Novi Put Road. This road goes through a wooded area above Korcula Old Town.

If you have a car and you’d prefer to drive to the viewpoint, you’ll head along Sveti Nikola from the old town until you intersect with Novi Put, where you’ll make a left.

That brings us to the great Marco Polo mystery…

It’s nearly impossible to read/watch/hear anything about Korcula that doesn’t make mention of Marco Polo.

However, if this is (miraculously) the first time you’re hearing about him in relation to the island, you should know that many people believe that Korcula is the birthplace of Marco Polo.

(And no, I’m not referring to the popular backyard swimming pool game from childhood – although, wasn’t that a hoot?)

I’m referring to the legendary flesh-and-blood writer/traveler Marco Polo from the history books.

While many ancient historians agree that Marco Polo was actually born in the Republic of Venice, the theory that Korcula was his birthplace somehow lives on.

Frankly, I haven’t done enough research on it to form a strong enough case on the matter, but there’s no harm in checking out Marco Polo’s alleged house and museum and forming your own opinion!

As an island, it should come as no surprise that Korcula is home to a number of beautiful beaches.

While the beaches of Korcula are typically pebbly and rocky, Beach Luka Korculanska is one of the rare sandy options on the island.

Another sandy option is Prizina Beach, located southeast of Lumbarda.

Popular Beaches within Korcula Town:

• Beach Puntin (Old Town)
• Beach Zakerjan (Old Town)
• Beach Spomenik (Old Town)
• Beach Ipsod Duvana (Put Svetog Nikole)
• Beach Banje (Borak)
• Beach Luka Korculanska (Luka Korculanska Bay)

If the idea of some seaside time appeals to you but you’re not much of a beach bum, I have a fun alternative for you.

Korcula offers you the unique opportunity for an inside look at life at sea with a fun semi-submarine tour. Geared toward children and adults alike, this tour offers a look at life under the sea as well as spectacular town views from the top deck.

Although the sub is docked at sea level for the entirety of the tour, you’ll also have a chance to explore the sub’s fascinating underwater observatory while learning about the tricks of the trade.

If you’re at all familiar with Croatian wine, you may have already heard of Grk.

If not, Grk is an incredibly rare Croatian white grape native to Korcula island. Despite the fact that the name “Grk” translates to “bitter” in Croatian, the resulting white wine is actually quite the opposite – dry, acidic, and moderately aromatic.

Given the wine’s highly-specific cultivation needs such as sandy soil and sunshine, you won’t find Grk grown outside of Korcula (including on other islands like Hvar)!

Fortunately, however, since wine tastings are one of the top things to do on Korcula, you’ll have plenty of wineries to choose from while you’re here.

That said, I suggest venturing outside the fortified walls of Korcula Old Town so that you can pair your wine with a gorgeous mountain backdrop.

I can highly recommend Vitis Winery for fabulous wine – and even better views! The dramatic landscape surrounding the winery is simply breathtaking; it honestly looks like a desktop screensaver!

Located in the village of Lumbarda on the eastern end of Korcula, Vitis is an intimate and charming family-run winery with mountain views for days.

My husband and I did a tasting of three varieties – the infamous Grk, a rosé, and a red. The Grk was easily my favorite, followed by the rosé. We also enjoyed a tasty charcuterie platter.

While Vitis Winery is wonderful, it’s far from the only vineyard on Korcula! You may also wish to consider some vineyard-hopping with one of many wine tours available on the island.

I highly suggest reserving your tasting in advance as the winery is small and they may not be able to accommodate you if you don’t. That said, you won’t be able to book more than a few days in advance; trust me, I tried!

Winery hours are as follows:

Tuesday: 1PM – 6PM
Wednesday: 1PM – 5PM
Thursday: 1PM – 6PM
Friday: 1PM – 6PM
Sunday: 1PM – 5PM

Vitis is closed on Monday and Saturday. Tasting hours may vary from the standard operating hours; be sure to inquire in advance.

Vitis Winery is located at Lumbarda 474, 20263 in Lumbarda.

If you’ll be driving, you can simply plug the above address into your GPS.

Alternatively, if you don’t have a car, I highly recommend taking the bus from Korcula Old Town. Although there isn’t an exact stop for the winery, you can take the bus to the last stop that’s at the traffic circle surrounding Church of the Holy Cross. (You’ll pass the winery on your way to this stop but can easily backtrack.)

The walk from the bus stop to Vitis Winery is easy and should only take you about five to ten minutes. Just make sure to keep to the side of the road, as cars can come whizzing by pretty quickly.

You can check out the bus schedule here.

If you have the luxury of time and the ability to spend a few extra hours in Lumbarda, why not consider a kayak tour?

This fun experience will introduce you to some of the fascinating islands in front of Lumbarda, including one with abandoned quarries and a charming old town.

Located a quick and easy 15-minute boat ride from Korcula, Badija is a quaint gem and the largest island off of the Škoji archipelago.

While the island is uninhabited, that’s simply part of its irresistible charm. Badija is home to a picturesque 15th-century monastery and is the perfect place to enjoy a tranquil day trip. Plus, the island can easily be explored in a single day, as it only takes about 45 minutes to cover it on foot.

There are a few ways to reach Badija from Korcula:

1. Book a water taxi
2. Find a local ferry/boat transfer
3. Captain your own boat

While there are plenty of amazing things to do on Korcula without ever leaving the island, I’d highly encourage you to branch out (even beyond Badija). Fortunately, island-hopping in Croatia is both convenient and affordable via the country’s extensive ferry system.

Personally, my husband and I did a day trip to Korcula from the neighboring island of Hvar.

We spent three nights at one of the best boutique hotels in Hvar and then took a ferry to Korcula on our final day. The trip takes about 90 minutes, but it frankly feels shorter, as the ride offers some beautiful views.

If you plan to spend more than one day on Korcula, I think you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not visiting at least one of the neighboring/nearby islands.

Here are some nearby islands to consider:

• Hvar (Check out the best things to do on Hvar before you go!)
• Vis (There are no direct routes from Korcula to Vis, but you can transit via Hvar Town on a passenger ferry)
• Mljet (Journey of about 45 minutes)
• Brac (Journey of about two hours)

While Croatia literally has over a thousand incredible islands to explore, there really is something special about Korcula. I hope I’ve inspired you to plan a trip here to discover the magic for yourself.

Frankly, the one day we spent uncovering these fun things to do on Korcula wasn’t nearly enough; I’m already fantasizing about a return trip!

Of all of these fun ideas, which activities interest you the most? Let me know in the comments below!

Planning a trip to the Croatian islands and mainland? Check out my other guides:

• Hvar vs Korcula: Which Croatian Island Is Right for You?
• 15 Beautiful Boutique Hotels in Hvar with Sea Views
• Hvar Town or Stari Grad, Croatia? Which Island Town Is Best?
• 17 Fun Things to Do on Hvar Island, Croatia (Hvar Town & Beyond)
• 15 Boutique Hotels in Dubrovnik (Old Town Gems to Seaside Sanctuaries)
• Dubrovnik Walls Walk: Essential Guide to a Memorable Croatian Experience
• 15 Stunning Dubrovnik Viewpoints & Photo Spots You Can’t Miss
• Plan the Perfect Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Cavtat, Croatia