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.
3 ways to get from Split to Korcula
There are 3 ways to travel the distance of 130 kilometers (81 miles) from Split to Korcula by bus + ferry (4 hours 55 minutes), ferry (2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes) and Car ferry (3 hours 25 minutes to 4 hours 20 minutes). The journey duration ranges between 2 hours 20 minutes to 4 hours 55 minutes and the quickest way is by ferry. The lowest priced tickets start from €12 ($13.10) for the ferry.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.
Split to Korcula by Ferry
The fastest way to travel from Split to Korcula is by ferry. There are three companies that offer trips for this route: Krilo (Kapetan Luka), TP Line and Jadrolinija.
Of these companies, only Kapetan Luka offers multiple trips daily all year round. TP Line and Jadrolinija operate only during the peak season (June and September).
Depending on your chosen ferry, travel time is about 2 hours 20 minutes to 3 hours 40 minutes. Ticket fares start from €12 ($13.10).
Departure and arrival station
All ferries depart from Split Ferry Terminal, which is within walking distance of Split’s town centre.
You will arrive at Korcula Harbour, 500m south of Korčula’s Old Town.
Ferry schedule from Split to Korčula
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
In summer, you get a better chance of securing a seat when you book your tickets online a few days before your trip.
Note that in really bad weather, ferries are not allowed to sail. In that case, consider taking a car ferry to Vela Luka. They are slower but quite sturdy, and they are capable of riding bigger waves.
Split to Korcula by Car Ferry
If you’re travelling in a vehicle, you’ll need to take a car ferry. However, there are no car ferries going from Split to Korčula Town. You’ll have to take a car ferry bound for Vela Luka, a town on the west end of Korčula Island.
This can also be a great backup option if tickets for the direct ferry have sold out. The ferry from Split to Vela Luka is available all year round.
Step 1: Split to Vela Luka by Car Ferry
Vela Luka is also a town on Korčula Island. While Korčula Town is on the east coast, Vela Luka is 43 km away on the west coast. That’s quite a distance, but docking here is your only option if you’re travelling by car.
Jadrolinija operates two car ferry trips from Split to Vela Luka daily. It also offers one ferry trip for foot passengers only. Make sure to book a car ferry if you’re taking your car.
Rates start from €10.50 ($11.50) per person and €70 ($77) for cars less than 5m long. For rates for other vehicles, check the Jadrolinija website.
Travel time from Split to Vela Luka is around 2h 20m - 3h.
PRO TIP for foot passengers: The last bus from Vela Luka to Korčula Town departs at 20:15. That means you can take any of the ferries available for the day.
Ferries depart from Split Ferry Terminal, which is within walking distance from most hotels in the city centre. You can buy your tickets at the port or book them beforehand through the Jadrolinija website.
The ferries dock at Vela Luka Port near the town centre.
Step 2: Vela Luka to Korčula Town by Car/Bus
From Vela Luka Port, you can drive to Korčula Town in around 40 minutes. Take the D118 road going east for the fastest route.
If you’re a foot passenger, you’ll have to take a bus. The bus station is just a 5-minute walk to the right side of Vela Luka Port. A ticket costs €7.30 ($8), and the bus journey takes 1h 5m - 1h 20m.
Depending on the time of your ferry’s arrival, you may have to wait a few hours for the next bus departure. In that case, you’ll get the chance to explore Vela Luka before setting off for Korčula Town.
- 24/7 customer support
- 24/7 customer support
The buses park at Korčula Bus Station on the southern edge of the Old Town.
Split to Korcula by Bus + Ferry
If you don’t mind travelling at night, you can take a combined bus and ferry from Split to Korcula. Arriva operates one bus trip daily.
The bus arrives early morning in Korčula. A bus ticket from Split costs €27 ($29).
Departure and arrival station
The bus departs from Split Central Bus Station in the city centre. It crosses the Pelješac Bridge and continues on to Pelješac Peninsula. Then, the bus boards a 15-minute car ferry from Orebic Port to Domince Ferry Terminal.
From the car ferry terminal, it’s another 10-minute bus ride to Korčula Bus Station, just outside the Old Town.
Bus schedule from Split to Korčula
There is only one bus trip available per day, so book your tickets at least a few days in advance!
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
Frequently Asked Questions about Split to Korcula
What is the distance from Split to Korcula?
The distance from Split to Korcula is 130 kilometers (81 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Split to Korcula?
The fastest way to get from Split to Korcula is by ferry and takes 2 hours 20 minutes.
What is the cheapest way to get from Split to Korcula?
The cheapest way to get from Split to Korcula is by ferry with ticket costs starting from €12 ($13.10).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Split 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.
