Travel tips

The Best Time to Visit Korčula

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Korčula is an island on the Adriatic sea off Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, boasting a plethora of natural beauty alongside pristine beaches, an ancient town and mouth-watering eateries. It’s a favoured holiday destination for many due to its beautiful landscape and numerous things to do and see.

Throughout the year, Korčula is brimming with numerous events and festivities, from theatres and films to traditional or sporting events. So whether you’re seeking to soak up Croatian culture or sit back and enjoy the entertainment, Korčula has it all.

If you’re planning a visit to Korčula, you’ll likely be considering when the best time to go is. Here’s our month-by-month guide to when to stay on the island and some key events to look out for.

January

January is the coldest month in Korčula, with temperatures dropping as low as 0°C and offering highs of 9°C. On average, there are about 13 days of rain on the island during this time, so it’s best to pack a rain jacket and warm clothes.

Don’t let the colder weather stop you from visiting Korčula in January though, as it is out of peak season, so tends to attract far fewer tourists. If you’re seeking a relaxing break on this stunning island, this is the month to go for seclusion and tranquillity.

For those visiting Korčula in January, this is a great time to see Korčula Old Town. Wander through the narrow streets that branch off from the main strip. See the mediaeval walls and browse the many shops and restaurants on offer, an excellent time to go to avoid the hustle and bustle that summer brings.  

February

Although Korčula is still cool in February, there is a slight rise in temperature with average daily highs of 13°C and lows of 7°C – certainly warmer than the 0°C that January brings! There is still a good chance of sunshine, but the occasional short-lived rain shower lingers throughout the month.

February in Korčula is still too cold to swim in the sea, although it provides a much quieter environment for those seeking a beach stroll. This time of the year is still considered off-season, so you will find the streets of Korčula town more peaceful and easier to navigate.

March

Temperatures in Korčula during March offer highs of 15°C, making for a comfortable climate for those who want to explore the island. Most of the snow has cleared from the landscapes and flowers begin to bloom in preparation for spring. This is a beautiful time to visit for those seeking vibrant natural surroundings and clear, blue skies.

March is an excellent time to visit the Veliki Revelin Tower; a 14th-century mediaeval construction still used as the town’s main entrance. After you have seen Veliki Revelin, take a trip to St. Marks Cathedral, a 15th-century structure located on the small square of Korčula Old Town.

If you prefer a leisurely stroll, take a trip to the seaside promenade of Put Svetog Nikole. Here you will find palm trees that line the walkway, alongside incredible coastline views and Korčula Old Town.

April

April is a pleasant spring month in Korčula, with high temperatures of around 17°C and lows of 9°C. There is also more sun during this time of year with an average rainfall of approximately 11 days. The days are longer with 211 hours of sunshine throughout the month, providing a lovely climate for a visit to the island.

Key Events

Easter Celebrations

The residents of Korčula are very religious, with one of the most prominent traditions taking place during Holy Week (6-12th April this year). Many processions occur across Korčula during this time, alongside numerous age-old traditions with locals dressed in authentic outfits.

If you’re seeking to soak up the culture and heritage of the island, a visit during Easter Celebrations is the perfect time to do so. Korčula Old Town comes to life with vibrant colours as people take to the streets to celebrate and mark this particular time.

May

Korčula in May is when the weather starts to pick up, although it’s still relatively mild compared to the hotter months of July and August. There are daily high temperatures of 22°C with lows averaging around 14°C. The skies are blue, and there is a 56% chance of sunshine. The sea temperatures have now increased to approximately 19°C, making it possible for a dip, although the water is still a little too chilly for most in May!

Key Events

Spring Food & Wine Festival

For any foodies and lovers of wine, Korčula’s Spring Food and Wine Festival is the event for you. During this time, several walking routes are set up around the island, emphasising the best eateries and bars along the way. Test out the many mouth-watering restaurants on the island whilst sipping on some of the finest wines – the perfect way to spend your time in Korčula.

June

With daily high temperatures rising to a much hotter 28°C in Korčula throughout June, this is a great time to visit for those who prefer warmer weather, with a chance to swim in the sea. The days are warm, and the evenings are balmy, perfect for a visit to the many romantic restaurants on the small square in Korčula Old Town.

June is still relatively quiet compared to the much busier months of July and August; perfect for those seeking plenty of sun and warmer days, yet far fewer tourists. The locals of Korčula begin to create a livelier atmosphere, with a buzz in the air as the preparations start for the summer season.

Key Events

Korčula Sword Dance

The Moreska Sword Dance is an ancient tradition held in Korčula since the mid-17th-century. Locals gather to perform three sword dances: Moreska, Kumpanija and Mostra. It was initially enacted to protest against Moorish occupation and was a fighting dance across southern Europe.

Today, the Korčula Sword Dance is held to keep the tradition alive with dazzling costumes, parades through the streets and dances performed at Reconciliation Square in Korčula Town.

July

July is one of the hottest months in Korčula, with average temperatures soaring to around 31°C and lows of approximately 21°C. The heat can become a little oppressive, with the evenings cooling off, creating a balmy atmosphere.

This is a great time to visit for those who love the hotter weather, lazy days around the pool or the many beautiful beaches on Korčula. Furthermore, the sea temperature has risen to around 25°C, making it pleasant for those aiming to swim in the water around the island.

Key Events

Fishermen’s Evenings

Throughout the summer months in Korčula, there are many opportunities to sample the fresh seafood on the island. Fishermen’s Nights take place during July and August when mouthwatering mackerel and squid are cooked on a grill for you to enjoy.

This is the perfect way to try some of the island’s fresh produce whilst soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. The most popular place to experience these evenings is along the harbour in Vela Luka, the western side of Korčula.

August

August is one of the most frequented months on Korčula for tourists. This is mainly down to the schools breaking up for the summer holidays, alongside the consistent warm weather. Temperatures remain similar in August to July, with daily highs averaging around 31°C and lows of approximately 20°C.

Being one of the busier months of the year does mean that the top sightseeing spots in Korčula can get pretty crowded, so it’s always best to plan ahead when visiting the island in August.  

Since August attracts so many tourists to Korčula, it does mean that plenty is going on, with multiple music concerts, food and drink festivals plus cultural events. Below are some of the best festivities that are worth checking out.

Key Events

Battle of Gica

At the start of the month, there is a reenactment of the Battle of Gica in the town of Blato. The Kumpanija Knights come together to mark this event that took place in 1571 when a battle broke out between the invading Turkish and the local people of Korčula. This is quite a spectacle and worth attending if you seek more of the island’s historical and cultural background.

Summer Jazz Festival

Korčula hosts an international Jazz festival that spans over a couple of days in August. Being a musical island means musicians come from afar to play their vibrant tunes to the crowds. There is a more significant festival in Korčula Town and a similar, smaller event in Vela Luka.

Baroque Music Festival

The Baroque Music Festival is in several stunning venues across Korčula, offering some of the best Croatian and International Baroque ensembles and solo artists. For those visiting the island in late August/early September, this is one event not to miss as the lively atmosphere and vibrant crowds create a concert to remember.

Zrnovski Makaruni Festival

This traditional event takes place in the quaint village of Zrnovo and is not to be missed if you’re a foodie! It takes place to celebrate the mouth-watering local meal of Zrnovski Makaruni and is marked with a feast day dedicated to this delicious pasta dish. Then, locals head to the streets where they stand in lines rolling makaruni for all visitors to enjoy.

September

Korčula in September starts to cool as the temperatures drop slightly, with daily highs of around 25°C and lows of 20°C. The towns and villages begin to quiet as the tourists head home for the kids to return to school.

There is still a 60% chance of sunshine throughout the month, so don’t let the temperature drop deter you from visiting, as it is still an excellent time to stroll on the beach or wander through the towns.

September is known as midseason in Korčula, meaning most bars and restaurants remain open on the island, and the accommodation prices are slightly cheaper. With a less oppressive climate and fewer tourists, this is a great time to visit if you’re hoping to get active or easily explore the island.  

October

As we enter the low season in Korčula, October presents cooler temperatures of around 20°C. It’s still warm enough to enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities on the island. There is still an average of 192 hours of sun throughout the month and plenty of blue skies, making for a pleasant time to visit Korčula.

Many bars, restaurants and shops start to wind down during this time as they prepare for the much quieter winter season. However, as the locals begin to resume their everyday routines after catering to tourists all summer, October is a great time to visit to get an authentic feel for Korčula.

Key Events

Beer Festival

Towards the end of October/start of November, the only brewery on Korčula ends the summer with a night full of festivities. Enjoy live music and traditional food all whilst sampling some of the best beers on the island. This event takes place at Pinjac Pub in the village of Zrnovo.

November

November is one of the autumnal months in Korčula as the temperatures drop further. However, there is still plenty of sunshine and blue skies but a higher chance of rainfall.

With high temperatures averaging around 15°C and lows of 11°C, this is a great time to visit the island for any outdoor enthusiasts. The roads are quieter as there are fewer tourists, and the cooler temperatures make for a great climate to hike, bike and explore Korčula.

December

December marks the winter season in Korčula. You can expect average highs of 12°C and much cooler lows of 7°C. This also tends to be a rainy month, but these showers are generally short-lived. It’s best to pack warm, waterproof clothing if you plan on venturing out on the island during December.

For those who love the Christmas period, December is a lovely time to visit. The many towns and villages are illuminated with Christmas lights and decorations, and there is a peaceful aura around Korčula during this time.

Summary

Korčula is a beautiful island with lots of historical and cultural events happening throughout the year. So whether you’re enjoying the varied landscapes around the towns and villages, relaxing on one of the many beaches or experiencing the island’s heritage at the traditional festivals, you can enjoy a superb range of things to do here all year round.

For more recommendations on visiting Korčula, why not read our guides on the best places to go and what to do?

If you’re planning a visit to Korčula and are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, Vida Villas has a fantastic selection of accommodation. Browse our range of holiday villas in Korčula, or get in touch and talk to our team about what you’re looking for.