What to expect when visiting Korcula
Korčula is a mostly unspoiled island south of Hvar in the Adriatic Sea. Also called “little Dubrovnik,” Korcula is famous for its Old Town — with its defensive walls, red roofs, and welcoming locals.
The island’s untouched nature is another one of its main features, along with its age-old music, dance, and religious ceremonies. Despite being one of Croatia’s more popular destinations, there’s a tranquil feel about Korčula. It’s like a breath of fresh air after exploring its busier neighbours.
2 ways to get from Hvar to Korcula
There are two ways to travel the distance of 55 km (34 miles) from Hvar to Korcula: by ferry (1h10m-1h25m) and catamaran (1h55m-2h5m). The journey takes between 1h10m - 2h05m and the quickest way is by ferry. The lowest priced tickets start from 84 KN (€10.50) for the catamaran.Where to stay in Korcula?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Korcula at the bottom of this page.
Hvar to Korcula by Catamaran
Vela Luka is another point of entry to Korčula Island. This town is on the west coast, around 40 km from Korčula Town.
There is one catamaran that sails from Hvar to Korčula via Vela Luka all year round. The catamaran is a good alternative option if you’re travelling outside the peak season and ran out of tickets for the direct ferry. This option also gives you a chance to get to see more of the island!
Step 1: Hvar to Vela Luka by Catamaran
Jadrolinija operates the lone catamaran plying this route. There is only one catamaran trip daily from Hvar to Vela Luka, and it departs at 15:10 from Harbour of Hvar.
The catamaran ride costs 39 KN (€5.00) and takes only around an hour.
You will be dropped off at Vela Luka Ferry Terminal. The bus station is on the right side of the pier, and you can easily walk to the bus station for your next ride.
Catamaran options from Hvar to Korcula
For now, booking is not available online, so make sure to arrive early at the port to buy tickets.
Step 2: Vela Luka to Korčula Town by Bus
Arriva offers several bus trips from Vela Luka to Korčula Town throughout the day.
However, with the catamaran schedule from Hvar to Vela Luka, you can only make it to the last two bus trips that depart at 17:00 and 18:30.
You should have enough time between the ferry arrival and the bus departure. You can spend this time exploring Vela Luka, but make sure to arrive at the terminal around 30 minutes before your trip.
A bus ticket costs 45 KN (€6.00). Travel time from Vela Luka to Korčula Town is a little more than an hour.
Catamaran options from Hvar to Korcula
We recommend that you book your bus ticket online prior to your trip via GetByBus. This way, you won’t have anything to worry about upon arrival at Vela Luka.
The bus will drop you off at Korčula Bus Station. The Old Town is just a few minutes walk from this bus station.
Hvar to Korcula by Ferry
The only direct way to travel from Hvar to Korčula is by ferry.
Kapetan Luka has at least 1 ferry that sails all year round. Jadrolinija and TP Line, on the other hand, are available only during the summer season (June to September).
The ferry journey from Hvar to Korčula takes around 1.5 hours. Ticket prices start from 130 KN (€16.50).
Departure and arrival station
Ferries depart from Hvar Port in Hvar Town. This port is near hotels and establishments in the town centre.
You will arrive at Korčula Harbour. The harbour is just outside the Old Town.
Ferry schedule from Hvar to Korčula
Make sure to book your tickets at least a few days before your trip to secure a seat.
Our favourite places to stay in Korcula
Important: Tourism in Croatia is very seasonal. Much of the available accommodation in Croatia is fully booked in the summer, but many sites are closed in the winter months. With July and August being the peak season, rates can rise 3 times as high as compared the low season or shoulder months. We recommend booking your accommodation at least 1 month in advance to lock in better rates.
Guest House Holiday - Budget Friendly
After a glimpse of this guesthouse, you won’t quite believe it’s a budget-friendly option. It’s an absolute bargain! The facilities and rooms make you feel like you are in a boutique hotel.
The rooms offer stunning views of the crystal clear water below. There’s no need for a TV (although there is one). The location and host easily make this place one of the best places to stay.
- The best views from your window
- Helpful and friendly host
- Perfect location
- Large and clean rooms
Apartments Milion - Mid Range
Here you’ll be located in the pumping heart of the Old Town and only 40 meters from the beach. You can’t really get much better than this! Enjoy sitting on your balcony and watching the world go by below you.
The rooms are modern and clean, but with a homely feel where you can’t help but relax. The host will also help you to relax with his friendly demeanor and helpful tips.
- Great location
- Close to the beach
- Modern and clean rooms
- Washing machine in some rooms
Kanavelic Place - Treating Yourself
Kanavelic Place has a number of beautifully decorated apartments available, for up to 4 people. Here you’ll be located within the Old Town and close to a number of bars and restaurants.
The tranquil garden offers the perfect place to unwind, or simply enjoy the sea view or sunset from your window.
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Perfect location
- Amazing views of the harbour
- Colourful and modern apartments
Frequently Asked Questions about Hvar to Korcula
What is the distance from Hvar to Korcula?
The distance from Hvar to Korcula is 55 km (34 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Hvar to Korcula?
The fastest way to get from Hvar to Korcula is by ferry and takes 1h10m-1h25m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Hvar to Korcula?
The cheapest way to get from Hvar to Korcula is by catamaran with ticket costs starting from 84 KN (€10.50).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Hvar to Korcula. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
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Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Buenos días,
Necesito información sobre ferrys en Croacia donde se permita llevar el coche. Las rutas que necesito son:
-25 de Agosto 2023 desde Split a Hvar (stary gard)
-27 de Agosto 2023 desde Hvar a korkula
-29 de Agosto 2023 desde Korkula a Split
Es posible estas rutas hacerlas llevando el coche? Se pueden comprar los billetes por adelantado?
Muchas gracias por la ayuda,
Hi Laia, car ferries are available only from Split to Hvar (Stari Grad) and from Korcula to Split. There are no car ferries between Hvar and Korcula, so you can only bring your vehicle up to Hvar. This means you’ll need to leave your vehicle in Hvar Town if you want to visit Korcula, and return back to get it to return via the car ferry between Hvar (Stari Grad) and Split.
It’s currently the low season in Croatia and not all catamarans and car ferries are operating. For now, you can only buy catamaran tickets on a number of routes. You can book car ferry tickets once the high season starts in May or June. It’s possible to view the 2023 schedule for all routes on the Jadrolinija website.
PD: Esta respuesta está escrita en inglés para que sea útil para los viajeros de todo el mundo. Recomiendo usar Google Translate para traducir esta respuesta al español.