Split to Korcula

About the ride from Split to Korcula

With its ancient Roman architecture, cobblestone palm tree-lined walkways and laid-back cafe corners, Split is among Croatia’s most enjoyable locales. Still, after a few days of exploring its buzzing streets, you might be up trying for something different. One of the best ways to do this is to take a trip from Split to Korcula.

Part of the Dalmatian archipelago, the island of Korcula is Croatia’s second most populous island not connected by a bridge. A stone’s throw from its surrounding islands, the old town Korcula offers commanding views of the spectacular Adriatic coast. It offers quite a bit of charm in its own right, but more on that in a second. 

The first thing to figure out is how do you get from Split to Korcula in the first place?

As mentioned, Korcula island isn’t connected to mainland Croatia by a bridge. That means that you’ll need to cover the 55-mile distance from Korcula to Split by ferry. Thankfully, ferries from Split to Korcula operate on a daily basis, so you should have no trouble reaching your destination.

The easiest option is going directly from Split to the town of Korcula as an on-foot passenger. This ride leaves from the ferry port of Split, and takes just under 2.5 hours. You’ll learn about the specifics of taking this ferry in a little bit. But first, there are a couple of other transport options you might want to know about.

There are no direct car or bus ferries from Split to the town of Korcula. So, if you want to go from Split to Korcula in a vehicle, you’ll need to get a ferry going to Vela Luka, a town on the western side of the island.

You can also hop on a bus in Split and have the same ferry carry you to Vela Luka so you can make the journey to Korcula town once you land. This ferry does take longer to get to the island. Expect a 4.5 hour journey.

If you want to make the most out of your time in Croatia, you can take a day trip to Dubrovnik, and then hop on a 4:30 pm ferry to Korcula from there. Alternatively, if you’re really worried about getting seasick, you can make the longer journey along the coast to the Peljesac peninsula and take a 20 minute car ferry from Orebic.

 

What to see when traveling from Split to Korcula

Here comes the fun part. The Adriatic Coast is arguably one of the most beautiful in the whole of the Mediterranean. And if you don’t believe that, a ferry ride from Split to Korcula is bound to change your mind.

Seriously, get your camera ready, because the spectacle starts within minutes of leaving Split. The first part of your journey will take you between the islands of Solta and Brac. The distance between the two islands is less than 3000 feet – you can literally wave to the locals! 

As you leave the two islands in your wake, you’ll come up to the ruggedly beautiful coast of Hvar. With its mixture of Greek, Roman and Slavic influences, Hvar is a deservedly popular resort island – take notes if you want to visit next time!

Coming up to Korcula island, the views just keep getting better. You’ll be arriving along the northern coast of the island, brushing against the Peljesac peninsula as you get closer to Korcula town.

The ferry port is located right in the heart of old town Korcula, leaving you within walking distance of all the local landmarks. From the Cathedral of Saint Mark and its stunning tower views to the romantic walkways of the marina, this little town has a lot to offer.

If you’d prefer something that’s off the beaten track, you can get a bicycle and explore the coast along the island’s cycling trails. Those with a more adventurous spirit will be spoiled for choice. From kayaking, to windsurfing and deep sea fishing, there’s no end to the activities you can enjoy here.

And if you like to indulge, the eastern side of the island is dotted with small, family-run wineries. Sit back, nibble on local delicacies, and soak in the views enjoying the finest local vintages.

 

How to get from Split to Korcula

Taking a ferry to Korcula town

The two and a half hour ferry ride from Split to Korcula is nothing if not comfortable. The vessel is equipped with comfortable seating, AC cabins, and toilets on board. Pets are allowed for an additional charge, but you’ll need to bring them along in a carrier.

There are two departure times to choose from: 7:00 am and 4:00 pm. The base price is about $29 (186 Croatian Kuna), but sometimes you can save 20% with a return ticket.

If you’re planning on staying on Korcula for an extended period of time, know that the ferry has a 44 lb (20 kg) luggage policy. In case the weather is rough, you might need to reschedule your trip for a brighter day. Of course, if you’re not flexible with your dates, you can opt for a full refund.

 

Going to Korcula by bus

Going from Split to Korcula is pretty straightforward. Your bus leaves at 1:00 am, and arrives at Korcula town around 5:37 am. You might not get the best views at nighttime, but at least you’re saving on a night’s worth of accommodation.

Operated by Autotrans, Arriva, your bus offers all the basic amenities you’ll need for a comfortable journey. There’s WiFi, A/C, a toilet, and a charger for your phone. You can bring up to 25 kg (55 lbs) of luggage and one carry-on bag. The operator’s pet policy only allows guide dogs accompanying blind persons as passengers on board.

The price is about $27 per person.

 

Going to Korcula by car

If you’re planning to go to Korcula by car, then getting a ferry to Vela Luka is the easiest option. The price for a single car is $71 (around 442 Croatian Kuna). The ferry leaves at 4:30, 5:45, 6:15, and 9:00 in the morning, Mondays through Saturdays.

The ferry is operated by the same company who runs ferries to Korcula town, so the amenities and policies are the same. Once you’re in Vela Reka, you just need a 20 minute car ride across the island to Korcula.