Korcula: City History, Nature and Local Cuisine

Korcula appeals to travellers with a wide range of interests: the historic town is an exceptional example of late medieval town planning and architecture, while nature trails and culinary traditions reveal other sides of the destination. When planning your holiday, you might therefore consider whether you would like to focus mainly on culture, outdoor activities or local cuisine.

Town History and Moreška

The entire historic town of Korčula is listed in the Register of Monuments of the Republic of Croatia. Its significance also lies in its late medieval town planning and architecture. One striking building is the Cathedral of St Mark, an outstanding example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture. The Town Museum is housed in the Renaissance Gabrielis Palace and offers another cultural destination for learning about the town’s history.

The Moreška sword dance has been performed for over 400 years and is regarded as a defining cultural symbol of the island. Korčula is the only place where Moreška has been preserved as a distinct local tradition. During the summer months, visitors can experience the dance at regular performances, especially in the town of Korčula. If you would like to combine your trip with a cultural experience, you can take this seasonal highlight into account when planning.

Island Nature and Trails

Off the coast of the town of Korčula, on the eastern side of the island, lies an archipelago of small islets and reefs. Possible activities there include diving on the reefs, boat trips, kayaking and swimming. Alongside cultural attractions, there are also opportunities to enjoy the water. When deciding how to plan your trip, you can weigh up whether you are more drawn to the town’s history or to these water-based experiences.

On Badija, a scenic walking trail runs around the island. During the summer season, Badija can be reached by regular boat services. The circular island trail and boat services are two practical points of reference for travellers looking to combine their stay with an experience of nature. Kočje offers a different kind of landscape: this protected natural area is characterised by striking dolomite rock formations and lush vegetation.

The Kočje trail starts in the hamlet of Brdo above Žrnovo and is suited to nature lovers and hikers. When planning, you can choose between a trail around Badija and a natural area with rock formations and vegetation. Both options add an active element to your stay, without requiring you to seek out the same kind of nature experience.

Local Cuisine and a Unique Stairway

Žrnovo is known for Žrnovski makaruni, a hand-rolled pasta made according to local tradition. The Makarunada takes place there every August. The festival features workshops, preparation and tastings of Žrnovski makaruni. The Slow Food Festival Korčula offers another culinary highlight by promoting locally grown foods and the preservation of culinary traditions. If you are interested in food and traditional methods of preparation, these offer two different ways to explore the subject: a particular pasta tradition in Žrnovo and a festival with a broader focus on local produce.

In the Sveti Antun neighbourhood of Korčula, a stone staircase with 101 steps leads to the Church of St Anthony of Padua. The exact number of steps makes this a clearly defined destination for a visit to the neighbourhood. Together, the town’s history, Moreška, nature trails and culinary attractions offer a range of ways to shape your trip and then find a holiday apartment that suits your stay.

More local pages to help you explore: Kneza, Zavalatica, Babina, Zrnovo, Pupnat, Racisce, Lumbarda and Čara.

For the broader travel overview: Općina Korčula.