Korcula Island, Croatia Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Korcula Island is a hidden gem in the Adriatic Sea, located off the coast of Croatia. This stunning island boasts crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and a rich history dating back to ancient times. It is known for its charming medieval villages, vineyards, and olive groves. With its mild Mediterranean climate, it is the perfect destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and sailing. The island also offers a variety of cultural experiences, including traditional festivals and local cuisine. Korcula Island is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful and authentic Mediterranean getaway.

Why Korcula Island, Croatia?

  • Korcula Island is the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo
  • The island is well-known for its vineyards and olive groves
  • Korcula Island's old town is surrounded by a medieval fortification wall
  • The island has over 200 churches and chapels, many of which are still in use today
  • Korcula Island is home to one of the oldest Yacht Clubs in the Mediterranean

Korcula Island, Croatia Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
48° F
° F
February
52° F
° F
March
55° F
° F
April
63° F
° F
May
72° F
° F
June
79° F
° F
July
82° F
° F
August
82° F
° F
September
77° F
° F
October
68° F
° F
November
59° F
° F
December
52° F
° F

Average Rainfall

January
4.3 inches
February
4.3 inches
March
3.8 inches
April
3.6 inches
May
3.2 inches
June
2.5 inches
July
2.2 inches
August
1.5 inches
September
2.0 inches
October
3.0 inches
November
4.1 inches
December
5.3 inches

History

Korcula Island, located in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It is believed that the island was first inhabited by the Illyrian tribe, who were known for their seafaring skills and trading abilities. Over the centuries, Korcula has been ruled by various civilizations, each leaving their mark on the island’s culture and architecture.

In the 6th century BC, the Greeks established a colony on the island and named it Korkyra Melaina, meaning “Black Korcula” due to its dense pine forests. They introduced olive and grape cultivation, which are still major industries on the island today. The Romans also left their mark on Korcula, building villas, baths, and a defensive wall to protect the island from invaders.

During the Middle Ages, Korcula was under the rule of the Byzantine Empire, followed by the Venetians in the 13th century. The Venetians fortified the island with a stone wall and towers, which can still be seen today in the charming Old Town of Korcula. It is believed that the famous explorer Marco Polo was born on the island in 1254, and his house is now a popular tourist attraction.

In the 15th century, Korcula came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, and in the 16th century, it was conquered by the Venetians again. This period saw a rise in the island’s prosperity, as it became an important trading center for salt and wine. The Venetian influence is evident in the architecture of the Old Town, with its narrow streets, palaces, and churches.

In the 19th century, Korcula became a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, which brought significant developments to the island’s infrastructure, including the construction of a new port.

Today, Korcula is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. The Old Town, with its Venetian architecture and medieval charm, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for any traveler. The island also offers a variety of activities such as wine tasting, water sports, and hiking. With its fascinating history and breathtaking beauty, Korcula Island continues to enchant visitors from all over the world.

Transportation on Korcula Island, Croatia

Getting to Korcula Island, Croatia and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Passport valid for the duration of your stay.
  • Visa not required for most nationalities for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area.
  • Return/onward ticket required for proof of departure.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax; taxes are included in airfare.

Driving

  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid; non-EU licenses require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Driving Side: Right-hand side.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are generally well-maintained, though some rural routes may be narrow or winding.
  • Speed Limits: 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on rural roads.
  • Traffic Rules: Be cautious of narrow roads and limited parking in Kor?ula Town during peak seasons. Renting a scooter or bicycle is a popular way to explore the island’s scenic routes and hidden spots.

Local Transportation

Korcula Island offers convenient transportation options for visitors. Public buses connect major towns like Korcula Town, Vela Luka, and nearby villages. Taxis and private transfers are available for more direct travel. Car, scooter, and bike rentals provide flexibility to explore the island’s scenic routes. Ferries and catamarans link Korcula to the mainland and nearby islands, making it easy to access and navigate.

Know Before You Go...® - Korcula Island, Croatia Travel Tips

Before making their way to Korcula Island, Croatia , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Korcula Island, Croatia even more relaxing.

Capital: Korcula Town
Population: 17,000 (estimated)
Size: 108 square miles (estimated)
Electric Current: 230
Official Language: The official language spoken in Korcula Island is Croatian, which is also the national language of Croatia. However, due to its popularity as a tourist destination, English is widely spoken as a secondary language by locals and in tourism-related business
Currency:
  • The official currency in Croatia is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). It is recommended to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices, as they offer more favorable rates compared to hotels or tourist shops.
  • Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in larger establishments such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.
  • ATMs are also available on the island, mostly in larger towns and tourist areas. They dispense HRK and some may offer the option to withdraw in other currencies as well. It is advisable to inform your bank beforehand about your travel plans to avoid any issues with international transactions.
  • Traveler's checks are generally not accepted on the island, and it is recommended to use them only as a backup option.
  • In terms of payment options, most establishments in Korcula Island accept both cash and credit cards. Some may also accept contactless payments, but it is always advisable to carry some cash for smaller purcha
Tipping and Taxes:
  • Tipping is not mandatory in Croatia, but it is common practice to leave a tip of 10% of the total bill in restaurants. Some restaurants may include a service charge in the bill, so it is always a good idea to check before leaving an additional tip.
  • Tipping taxi drivers is also not mandatory, but it is customary to round up the fare or leave a small tip of 5-10 HRK.
  • If you go on a guided tour in Korcula Island, it is customary to tip your guide 10% of the tour cost.
  • The standard Value Added Tax (VAT) rate in Croatia is 25%, which is included in the price of goods and services. This means that tourists can expect to pay this tax on most of their purchases, including meals, souvenirs, and accommodations.
  • When using ATMs in Croatia, be aware that there may be fees from both your bank and the local bank, so it is best to withdraw larger amounts at a time to minimize fees.
Dress Code: The dress code in Korcula Island is casual and comfortable, with a focus on light and breathable clothing suitable for warm weather.
Topography: Korcula Island is a hilly and rugged island with steep cliffs, rocky coves, and pristine beaches surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Telephone: * Telephone Country Code: +385 * Mobile Networks: Reliable coverage across the island, including remote villages and beaches. * Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi for guests.

Korcula Island, Croatia Weddings and Honeymoons

In Korcula Island, Croatia getting married involves a few clear steps and required documents.

Apply for a marriage license at the local Maticni Ured (Registry Office) on Korcula or in another Croatian municipality.

Required documents include:

  • Valid passports or national ID cards for both parties.
  • Birth certificates (translated into Croatian and certified with an Apostille).
  • Certificate of no impediment to marriage (translated into Croatian).
  • Divorce decree or death certificate (if applicable).
  • Application form provided by the Registry Office.

Civil ceremonies are legally binding and conducted in Croatian by a registrar. An interpreter may be required if the couple does not speak Croatian.

Costs: Marriage fees vary but are typically around €50 to €100. Additional costs may apply for translations, Apostilles, and optional arrangements.

Optional Religious or Scenic Venue Ceremony: Kor?ula Island offers breathtaking venues for symbolic or religious ceremonies, including historic churches, pristine beaches, and vineyards. Popular locations include St. Mark’s Cathedral in Kor?ula Town, secluded bays near Lumbarda, and luxury villas with panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. These ceremonies are not legally binding without a civil ceremony.