How to get from Hvar to Korcula
Why visit 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.
What are the 2 ways to travel from Hvar to Korcula?
There are 2 ways to travel the 55 kilometre (34 miles) distance from Hvar to Korcula. You can choose between the ferry and ferry via Vela Luka. The journey takes 1 hour 10 minutes to 2 hours and the quickest way is by ferry. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by ferry with tickets starting at €11.10 ($12.80).
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 Ferry
The only direct way to travel from Hvar to Korcula is by ferry.
Kapetan Luka sails from May to December, while Jadrolinija and TP Line operate during the summer season from June to September.
The ferry journey takes around 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 35 minutes. Ticket prices start from €11.10 ($12.80).
Departure and arrival ports
Ferries depart from the Harbour of Hvar in Hvar Town. This port is near hotels and establishments in the town centre.
You will arrive at Korčula Harbour, just outside the Old Town.
Ferry schedule from Hvar to Korčula
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IMPORTANT NOTE: Jadrolinija is a popular ferry company and often gets fully booked. Buying a ticket online does not guarantee a trip at your preferred time. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis. So even with an online ticket, if the ferry you booked is already full, you may need to queue for hours at the port for a seat.
To avoid long waiting times, especially during the high season (June-August), we suggest booking with Krilo Kapetan Luka or TP Line via BookAway instead.
Check our guide for Croatia ferry companies for more details.
Hvar to Korcula by Ferry via Vela Luka
Vela Luka is an alternative 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 Korcula via Vela Luka all year round. This is a good option if you’re travelling outside the peak season and ran out of tickets for the direct ferry. This route 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 from Hvar to Vela Luka.
The catamaran ride costs €7.70 ($8.80) and takes around 55m.
It departs from the Harbour of Hvar and docks at Vela Luka Ferry Terminal. From here, it’s about 1.2 km to Vela Luka Bus Terminal — just a 5-minute taxi ride that costs about €10 ($11.50).
IMPORTANT NOTE: Online booking for Jadrolinija isn’t always available. You can check the Jadrolinija website or Direct Ferries to see if tickets can be booked in advance. But be aware — Jadrolinija runs on a first-come, first-served basis. Even with an online ticket, if the ferry’s full, you might still have to queue for hours at the port.
Step 2: Vela Luka to Korčula Town by Bus
Arriva offers several bus trips from Vela Luka to Korčula Town throughout the day.
However, given the catamaran schedule from Hvar to Vela Luka, you can only make it to the last bus trip that departs at 20:15.
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 the last bus trip.
Bus ticket prices start from €6.20 ($7.10). Travel time from Vela Luka to Korčula Town is a little more than an hour.
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We recommend booking your bus ticket online through BookAway before your trip. 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, and from there, it’s just a short walk to the Old Town.
Best 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
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!
Frequently Asked Questions about Hvar to Korcula
What is the distance from Hvar to Korcula?
The distance from Hvar to Korcula is 55 kilometre (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 1 hour 10 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Hvar to Korcula?
The cheapest way to get from Hvar to Korcula is by ferry with ticket costs starting from €11.10 ($12.80).
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.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
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.
