Korčula

The entire historic town of Korčula is listed in the Register of Monuments of the Republic of Croatia. It is considered an exceptional example of late medieval urban planning and architecture. Other landmarks include St Mark’s Cathedral, the Renaissance Gabrielis Palace with the Town Museum, and the Camino Korčula: this 160-kilometre circular route starts and ends in the town.

There are also different themes to consider when planning a trip beyond the town: the archipelago of islets and reefs lies off Korčula, on the island’s eastern side. Kočje is a protected natural area, and Žrnovo’s local cuisine is shaped by hand-rolled pasta and the Makarunada.

Moreška is a sword dance that has been performed for over 400 years and is considered a defining cultural symbol of Korčula Island. Korčula is also the only place where Moreška has survived as an independent local tradition. Visitors can see the dance at regular performances during the summer months, particularly in the town of Korčula. If you are interested, you can take this vibrant part of the island’s culture into account when choosing when to travel.

The buildings also give the town a distinct cultural profile. St Mark’s Cathedral is an outstanding example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. The Town Museum is housed in Gabrielis Palace, a Renaissance palace. Together with the late medieval urban layout, these places offer several points of interest for travellers interested in architecture and urban history.

The Korčula archipelago includes small islets and reefs off the town, on the eastern side of the island. The reefs offer opportunities for diving; boat trips, kayaking and swimming are also among the activities mentioned there. This means you can focus your trip on water activities or on culture in the town, without treating the two as the same thing.

A scenic hiking trail around the island of Badija is described. During the summer season, Badija can be reached by regular boat services. If you are considering an island hike, you can plan this trail as a nature experience in its own right; no information about its length or duration is provided.

The protected natural area of Kočje is particularly appealing to nature lovers and hikers. Striking dolomite rock formations and lush vegetation characterise the landscape. The Kočje trail starts in the hamlet of Brdo, above Žrnovo.

Žrnovo is known for Žrnovski makaruni, a hand-rolled pasta made according to local tradition. The Makarunada takes place there every August. The programme includes workshops, preparation and tastings of Žrnovski makaruni. This makes the pasta part of a specific culinary event that may appeal to travellers interested in regional traditions.

Another connection to food culture is the Slow Food Festival Korčula. It promotes locally grown food and the preservation of culinary traditions. The Makarunada and the festival have different focuses: one centres on a particular regional pasta and its preparation, while the other promotes local food and culinary heritage.

If you would like to broaden your search beyond Korčula, you can find more destination pages here: Pupnat, Zavalatica, Kneza, Čara, Babina, Račišće, Žrnovo and Lumbarda.

How long is the Camino Korčula?

The circular route is 160 kilometres long and starts and ends in the town of Korčula.

When can you see Moreška?

Moreška is performed regularly during the summer months, particularly in the town of Korčula.

What does the Makarunada in Žrnovo include?

Held every August, the Makarunada includes workshops, preparation and tastings of Žrnovski makaruni.

For the broader travel overview: Općina Korčula.