A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Arles vs. Korcula for Attractions, Old Town, Food, and Families

Should you visit Arles or Korcula?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Arles and Korcula can help you decide which place is right for you.

Arles

Arles is a compact, quaint, and historic town. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Korcula

Korcula is a laid back, historic, and scenic island. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Arles and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Arles or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Korcula. Although Arles and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Korcula has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Korcula is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Arles is known for its museums, nightlife, and historical sights. Korcula is more touristy than Arles and is known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also home to St Mark's Cathedral. Arles is popular for its Roman history and its influence over Vincent van Gogh.

How is Arles different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Korcula and Arles. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Arles or Korcula?

Arles
Korcula

Arles is renowned for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Korcula. Most of the sights are concentrated in Korcula Town, which has a charming old town that is filled with stone houses. In the center of the old town is St Mark's Cathedral. Other points of interest include Abbey Treasury and Marco Polo's House.


Is the Food Better in Arles or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Arles
Korcula

Dining out at restaurants in both Arles and Korcula can be an enjoyable experience.

Dining out in Arles is an experience not to be missed. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Korcula. Food is a way of life on the island, and you'll likely enjoy bread, salad, soup, and grilled meat or seafood at most meals. The ingredients are locally produced and fresh.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Arles
Korcula

Arles is a town with good options for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Arles has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are countless bars and pubs where you can enjoy a cold drink and a relaxing night out.

Korcula doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. The party scene is lacking in the old town, so this isn't the place to visit for nightlife. Many of the restaurants become cocktail bars at night, and there is a club or two that has opened in recent years.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is very good for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Arles is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Arles or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is well known for the beach. However, Arles is not a beach destination.

Korcula is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. There are a number of beautiful beaches around the island. Head south for the sandier beaches and north for the pebbly, shallower beaches. Many people think that Lumbarda has the best beaches on the island.

Arles is not a beach destination.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Arles
Korcula

Arles is renowned for its old town. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

The old town of Arles is one of the most recognized in the world. The large old town is filled with Roman ruins and historic sights. There are narrow streets and many interesting places to explore.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Arles is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Korcula. There are many natural and hiking areas on the island so you can enjoy a full day hike or a shorter stroll through the area.

Arles is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Arles or Korcula?

Arles
Korcula

Shopping is a popular activity in both Korcula and Arles.

Many visitors go to Arles to go shopping. There are many boutiques that are filled with local art, crafts, and merchandise.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Korcula. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Families?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Arles is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Korcula is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The island has many great hikes that are appropriate for all ages. There are also pebbly beaches where the kids can play in the water and explore.

For families, Arles is not always the best place to visit. Filled with Roman ruins and beautiful art, this is a great town, but can make for a long day for younger kids.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Couples?

Arles
Korcula

Both Arles and Korcula are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Arles frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy history, roman ruins, and beautiful art will appreciate a weekend getaway to this town.

Korcula is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The beautiful old town, striking coastline, and wonderful natural beauty make for a great honeymoon or romantic escape. There are many nice hikes in the area and the beaches are nice for cooling off.


Is Arles or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is very good for backpackers. However, Arles is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Korcula is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Arles is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels and apartments in the area.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Students?

Arles
Korcula

Korcula is very good for students. However, Arles is not popular with students.

Korcula is popular with students. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Arles is not popular with students.

Is Arles or Korcula Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Arles
Korcula

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Arles and Korcula.

You'll find some public transit in Arles, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are shuttle buses that run between the city center and the train station, which is less than a kilometer out of town.

While Korcula offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.


Is Arles or Korcula a more walkable city?

Arles
Korcula

Arles is a great destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Arles is a very walkable town. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable town. There are foot paths and trails all over the island but you'll want to rent a bike if you're going long distances.

For even more information, also check out Is Arles Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Arles?

How long in Arles or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Arles and Korcula. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Korcula than in Arles. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Arles, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

Families should spend more time in Korcula than Arles. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Korcula, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Arles than Korcula. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arles that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Korcula than Arles if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Korcula.


  • How many days in Arles or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Arles 1-2 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Arles or Korcula?

In Arles, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

In Korcula, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this scenic destination offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Arles or Korcula?

In Arles, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arles has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Korcula. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Arles or Korcula?

Arles is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Korcula is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the destination of Korcula. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Arles or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arles. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Arles. One reason most visitors come is for the museums. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the scenic destination of Korcula. Most people come for the beaches. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best G Adventures Tours to France, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Arles?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Arles is €142, while the average daily cost in Korcula is €90. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Arles and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Arles 71
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Arles 142
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Arles and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Arles or Korcula? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Arles


Hotels in Korcula


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Arles Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Arles 23
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Arles

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Arles:

  • Arles to Marseille Airport (MRS) - Departure Private Transfer: $117

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

  • Island Stupe / Moro Beach Transfer: $26
  • Private One Way Transfer from Orebić to Dubrovnik: $205

Is it cheaper to fly into Arles or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Arles change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Arles 52
    Korcula 28
Typical Food Prices in Arles

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Arles:


  • Cooked Clams
    4.50
  • Ice Cream
    1.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Korcula

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Korcula.

  • Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87
  • Korcula walking tour and dinner for Food Lovers: $228
  • Korčula: Island Yacht Cruise with Wine Tasting and Dinner: $321

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Arles 31
    Korcula 11
Typical Entertainment Prices in Arles

Here are a few typical costs in Arles for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Castle Entrance Fee
    5.50

Tours and Activities in Arles

Here are a few actual costs in Arles for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Provence Region Roman Abbey of Montmajour Entrance Ticket: $7.64
  • City tour 45mn of the city, its history, its monuments,: $70
  • City tour 1 hour of the city, its history, its monuments,: $84
  • From Avignon: Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy Tour: $106
  • Arles 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $187
  • 2-Hour Private Walking Tour: $201
  • Half Day Private Guided Tour of Arles: $202
  • Private Guided Tour of Arles: $218
  • Art and History Walking Tour: $299
  • Arles Private guided walking tour from Marseille: $342
  • Arles, Saint-Rémy & Les Baux De Provence: Guided Tour: $1,176

Tours and Activities in Korcula

Here are a few actual costs in Korcula for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Semi-Submarine Tour: $21
  • Private Korcula Eco Tour with Guide: $27
  • Korčula: 3 Island Hop-on Hop-off Tour Daily Ticket: $32
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $66
  • Small-Group Lumbarda Sunset and Evening Kayaking Experience: $66
  • Lumbarda: Half-Day Kayaking and History Tour: $66
  • Lumbarda: Sunset Kayak Tour: $66
  • Korčula for Early Risers and Coffee Lovers Private Walking Tour: $70
  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • Korčula & Pelješac: Wine & Culture Experience from Dubrovnik: $80

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Arles 24
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Arles

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Arles:

  • Lavender Field & Distillery Tour between Nimes & Arles: $6.20

Sample the Local Flavors in Korcula

Also in Korcula, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $31
  • Slurp of Grk Wine Tour: $92
  • Day Tour from Dubrovnik - Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting: $92
  • Wine Tour Korcula: $98
  • Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting: $105
  • Korcula Buggy Safari With Wine Tasting: $107
  • Korcula Bike & Wine Tour: $111
  • Private Korcula wine tour and tasting : $131
  • Wine tour Korčula - private tour: $146
  • Enchanted Forest Hike and Wine Tasting Private Tour: $158
  • Korcula Island Sightseeing Tour Including Wine Tasting: $229


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Arles and Korcula, we can see that Arles is more expensive. And not only is Korcula much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Korcula would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Korcula and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Arles would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arles than you might in Korcula.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Arles Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Arles or Korcula?

Arles has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Arles and Korcula, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Arles or Korcula?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Arles or Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Arles are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Arles for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Arles is generally cooler than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 24°C (75°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during summer. Arles gets 354 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Arles usually receives more rain than Korcula. Arles gets 31 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Arles 24°C (75°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Arles or Korcula in the Autumn?

Both Korcula and Arles during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Arles in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Arles is cooler than Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Arles averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Arles often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Arles gets 178 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Arles. Arles usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Arles gets 130 mm (5.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Arles 16°C (61°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Arles or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Arles and Korcula. Most visitors come to Arles for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Korcula because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Arles is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Arles in January average around 7°C (44°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Arles usually receives more sunshine than Korcula during winter. Arles gets 146 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Arles usually receives less rain than Korcula. Arles gets 67 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Arles 7°C (44°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Arles or Korcula in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Arles as well as Korcula. The spring months attract visitors to Arles because of the natural beauty. Additionally, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In April, Arles is generally cooler than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Arles average around 13°C (56°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Arles this time of the year. In the spring, Arles often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Arles gets 218 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Arles usually gets less rain in April than Korcula. Arles gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Arles 13°C (56°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Arles

Arles Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 7°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (50°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 60 mm (2.3 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (69°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 24°C (75°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 23°C (74°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 130 mm (5.1 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 11°C (51°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 7°C (45°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)