The Cities of Charming Korcula

The island of Korcula is part of the country of Croatia. With a nearly perfect climate (it hardly ever freezes) and lots of sun, Korcula is a popular vacation destination for Europeans and Americans alike. There are nine major destinations to visit on Korcula.

The first destination is the town of Vela Luka. Vela Luka is a coastal town on the western end of the island. Surrounded by hills, this charming fishing town has two public swimming beaches. There are interesting ruins that date back to Roman times. There are two small islands just off the coast of the town, and this area is great for fishing! Near Vela Luka, visitors can go exploring in the Big Cave, which has prehistoric artifacts from the ancient history of the island. The clear waters around Vela Luka are a great place to snorkel or scuba dive! Also, the cliffs around the town offer stunning views of the island.

Next, move on to Blato. Blato is located inland. There is a set of archaeological ruins on the estate of Junianum. There is a medieval church in Blato that can be toured. If you are visiting Blato in April, try to plan your trip around the 23rd. In the town’s main square performers dance the knight dance Kumpanija, dressed in national costumes. This festival is fun to watch and gives guests a taste of the culture and history of the area.

Moving on in your tour of Korcula, you will visit Smokvica. Smokvica is a town set on the hills of Korcula. From this town you can see beautiful panoramic views of the island. Soak up some of the culture of the island in this charming town.

Move on to the town of Cara, which is one of the oldest settlements on the island. Cara is home to the famous Zavalatica resort, that offers comfortable and luxurious apartments to rent. While in Cara be sure to visit the Church of St. Mary in the Field. Here you can see architecture that dates back to the 14th century. Take tours of the vineyards on the hillside as well.

From Cara, visit Pupnat. This town is tucked in a little valley between two hills. Here you can take many walking tours, including the hike to the top of the highest mountain on the island. On the 5th of August you can enjoy the feast day of Our Lady of the Snows church.

A charming town to visit on Korcula is the village of Zrnovo. This quaint village is home to Barnia, a neighborhood of old houses and tiny paths. This is the perfect place to take a stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist scene. Many of the houses are vacant, and visitors can enjoy the ancient architecture without being disturbed. While in Zrnovo, visit Kocje, which is an interesting geological formation with high dolomite rocks you can walk among.

Racisce is a young town in the island. In the 17th century the area became a haven for refugees from other areas. Today it is home to sailors and fishermen, as it is a coastal town. There is a small hotel in Racisce for tourists. The town has several bays, and one of them has a traditional buche playground, where visitors can watch locals play the game of La Boule. Beach Vaja has white pebbles and sparkling blue water. Away from the majority of the tourists, this beach is a great place to rest and enjoy the sea. The best way to enter the beach is from the path that comes down the cliff overshadowing the beach. Racisce’s hills are a great place to walk, bike, and explore.

From here visit the fisherman’s village of Lumbarda, on the east of the island. Lumbarda is a great place to go diving and snorkeling. Also the marina offers boats to rent. Or rent a scooter to take around the village. Lumbarda has several beaches, so enjoy some time soaking up sand and sun while visiting!

Finally, the largest town on the island is Korcula. There are many things to see and do here. Visit Korcula Old Town, a medieval city that is right on the water. There are 14th century walls and towers surrounding the city. Inside Old Town you will find many palaces that were homes to aristocrats of the later years. There is the beautiful Cathedral of Sveti Marko. You can scuba dive and snorkel off the coasts of Korcula. Also, there mare many fancy resorts in the town, and this makes it a great central location to explore the rest of Korcula.

Plan your trip to the historical paradise of Korcula. Enjoy the history of this island that has been inhabited since ancient times, while soaking up the sun and surf you expect from paradise. Hike through the hills of Korcula, or go fishing off the shores. Whatever you enjoy, you will find it in Korcula!