2 weeks Ago By Emma Kilcawley Hemani
IF you’re looking for a sunny holiday this summer, look no further than the birthplace of Marco Polo.Korčula in Croatia is the perfect destination with plenty to offer tourists.It is a historic fortified town on the protected east coast of the island of Korčula, in CroatiaGetty Images - GettyThe stairs leading to the fortified Korcula old townGetty Images - GettyThe old town of Korcula is listed in UNESCO’s tentative list of outstanding world heritage sitesGetty Images - GettyThe small Dalmatian island spans 276 square kilometres and has many sheltered bays, making it perfect for watersports such as kayaking.
It’s located close to the main cities of Dubrovnik and Hvar, making it perfect for a day trip.The city has a bustling nightlife, making it perfect for those looking for a party break.A pint will cost you just €2.
50, making it one of the cheapest places in Europe to enjoy a drink.For a quirky drink, head to Massimo Bar, which is housed on the rooftop of a 15th-century turret and is accessed by climbing a ladder.And the area also has stunning beaches, as well as loads of history.
According to legend, it was discovered by the Greek hero Antenor escaping from Troy and when he saw the dense forests of holm oak and pine, he named it ‘Black Corfu’.Now, the fortified medieval old town is listed in UNESCO’s tentative list of outstanding world heritage sites.The old town is the perfect place to go for stunning architecture and to take in the culture, with winding cobbled lanes.
It is classed as one of the best-preserved medieval towns and was built in the architectural form of a fishbone to protect it from cold north winds, allowing mild winds to blow through.INCREDIBLE HISTORYVisit St Mark’s Cathedral, which was completed in the 15th century in the Gothic-Renaissance style.It houses works by Tintoretto and features sculptural detailing on its exterior.
You can climb to the top of the Bell Tower for some incredible views.Or head to the Abbatial Treasury where you can see the collection of 15th- and 16th-century Dalmatian art.Other places to visit include the House of Marco Polo, the Icon Collection in the House of the Brotherhood of All Saints, and the Town Museum.
Foodies can enjoy a range of delicacies and sample some local cuisine.You’ll find acres of olive groves and vineyards where they make their own olive oil and wine.BEST BEACHESYou can venture out on many wine tours, where you can sample the local produce.
You can also go on tours to sample some locally produced olive oil, made from olives grown in groves across the island.The beaches are perfect for relaxing, and there are several to choose from.Fifteen minutes from the old town is Lumbarda, a small fishing village with some of the best sandy beaches.
Przina Beach offers warm water all year-round, with a volleyball court and even a beach bar.Minutes away from this beach is another, called Bilin Zal, which is loved by families due to its shallow water, ideal for paddling.LOVED BY A-LISTERSOr take a short water taxi ride from the old town to Korčula’s Vrink islet.
This tiny island is loved by A-listers such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, Matthew McConaughey, and Woody Harrelson. It is known for its deep stone quarries that date back to Roman times.It has a pebble beach in front of the island’s only restaurant, meaning you can sunbathe while sipping a cool drink.
Also worth visiting is Vela Spila, which many signs located around the area will tell you is a fascinating discovery.It is a cave with gaping openings in its roof and is the site of many archaeological finds, including skeletons.SWORD DANCEAnd even better, it also gives guests a stunning view over the town, bay, neighbouring islands and the sea.
You can also view a sword dance and theatrical performance that originated in the Mediterranean, symbolising the battle between the Moors and Christians.It is the only place where this remains, so is worth a visit. You can also hike Hum Hill to the west of Vela Luka.
It sits 376 metres above sea level, overlooking the bay. The hike should take approximately an hour and a half, and at the top you will enjoy the view of a 19th-century Austro-Hungarian fortress with views across the town and bay.To get there, Ryanair offers flights to Dubrovnik that take just over 3 hours, starting from €14.
99.From there, you can head on to Korcula which takes about 2 hours by ferry.It has stunning viewsGetty Images - GettyVela Luka town on Korcula Island in CroatiaGetty Images - GettyThere are a range of historic sitesGetty Images - Getty.
