Korcula Old Town may be a small walled city, but there are plenty of things to do in Korcula inside and outside the confines of these medieval walls.
Of all things to do in Korcula, the first you need to consider is how to get to Korcula old town city. The transportation to Korcula old town itself is one of the most unique and scenic things about the island. What better way to get to Korcula old town than the traditional Croatian way–a water taxi. The cost is the same if not $1 or more than a regular taxi and more scenic. Tara’s Lodge called us a water taxi to the dock in Zrnovska Banja in front of Mimi’s Bistro and Bar. I stood on the edge of the dock, watching as the sun set, changing the hue of the sky from orange to pink to purple. A small, inflatable rib boat water taxi with a little flag came towards me. I lifted the hem of my skirt a little and Pat held my hand as I stepped into the boat and we were whisked off into the Adriatic. I turned around to say goodbye to Zrnovska Bay and Tara’s Lodge.
When we finally made it out of the bay and out to sea, we found ourselves in the middle of the channel between mainland Croatia, specifically Peljesac Peninsula, and Korcula. This sweet spot is known to have one of the most beautiful sunsets in Croatia. The sun sets between the mountainous island of Korcula and the peninsula casting a unique color and shadow on the water, sky, and mountains. After watching the sunset for a few minutes we continued to the town of Korcula old town. During the trip our water taxi driver gave us the history of the town and shared local stories and anecdotes of things we should pay attention to when wandering the streets. We were dropped off at the main port and were on our way into the walled city.
A Brief History About Korcula
Settled by the Greeks, Korcula’s largest influence was from the Venetians that took over in the 14th century. A lot of the architecture, words, people, food, and influence is still well-preserved and seen today. It rejoined Croatia in the early 20th century.
Start at Land Gate and Revelin Tower
The entrance to the fortified old city walls starts at Land gate and Revelin tower. Revelin tower was constructed from local stone in the 13th century. On the top of Revelin tower you will notice the statue of the lion of St. Mark, a nod to the town’s Venetian influence. For those who don’t know, the lion is the symbol of Venice. The original land gate was a draw bridge but was reconstructed into the stone bridge you see today in the 18th century.
St. Mark’s Cathedral
When you think of St. Mark’s Cathedral you immediately think of Venice. But as mentioned, the majority of Korcula’s culture was influenced by the Venetians, maybe that’s why I had such a liking for the island! St. Mark’s Cathedral was constructed by Italians and local artisans in the 15th century. It’s architecture is quite pristine and well-preserved and the inside boasts a number of ornate paintings and statues. While some say the best views of Korcula come from Marco Polo’s house or Revelin tower, I think a clear winner for the best views in Korcula come from St. Mark’s Cathedral’s bell tower. Go here during sunset and you’ll catch a breath taking view of the sun setting over the Adriatic and city.
Wander the Streets
My favorite thing to do when traveling, go off the books and just wander the streets. Follow your curiosity and find the small things that make these cities unique. From the fish nets hanging outside one of the many medieval alleyway restaurants to the candles and tomato jars lined outside a window. There are plenty of alleys with various stores and local trinkets so take your time and explore.
Massimo Cocktail Bar
Probably the most popular locale in Korcula old town is Massimo Cocktail Bar. It’s rooftop bar located on the top of the medieval reconstructed Zakerjan tower has an amazing, unblocked view during sunset. Getting up the tower is a whole journey in and of itself, so if you’re scared of heights, it’s not for you! To get to the top of the tower and take in that open aired medieval feel, you first need to climb up a wooden ladder in the middle of the tower. The ladder is steep and narrow and your body needs to fit through a small hole before you break through the ceiling and find yourself on the rooftop.
Now while sunset is by far the best time to visit for the views, it isn’t necessary my favorite vibe. A lot of young people make there way up the tower for happy hour during this time so it can feel like a bit of a loud frat party. Even the drinks have some unique “adult-only” cocktail names. But the views are unbeatable at sunset. To avoid this younger, vibrant crowd, I would opt to go there earlier in the afternoon for a casual beverage.
Luka Korculanska Bay
Pat and I found an escape from the labryinth walls of Korcula on the west side of the old town. The stairs led us to down to an arched entrance, which opened up to a long pedestrian port lined with yachts and sails on Luka Korculanska bay. The pedestrian walkway had two small beaches for locals to use and swiveled in and out of coves lined with palm trees where additional houses and hotels faced the Peljesac channel.
I’m Starved, Where Do I Eat in Korcula?
Where to Eat on Korcula: Food, Restaurant, Dessert Recommendations
In addition to some traditional foods such as black risotto and Zrnovski Makaruni at family run konoba’s, Pat and I experienced a few less traditional places that locals ate at in Korcula–think asian food and crêpes. I know that may sound weird, but isn’t the whole point of traveling deeper into a destination understanding where locals go to eat, spend their time, and how they interpret alternative food in their own unique way? Regardless to say, there is no shortage of places to eat on Korcula, no matter what you’re craving. Here’s a list of the best restaurants for traditional and non-traditional Croatian food, desserts, to-go food, and more.
Have More Time?
Such a big island and some many great things to see, I didn’t get the chance to do everything on my list! If you have a bit more time, here are some more things do in Korcula old town.
>> Next: Things to Do on Korcula: Bike the Lumbarda Vineyards
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