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

Should you visit Athens or Korcula?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Athens and Korcula. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Athens

Athens is a vibrant, energetic, and historic city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. It's a beautiful place to visit, too. 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. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling.

Athens and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Athens or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Athens. Although Athens and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Athens has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Athens is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, historical sights, and big city activities, while Korcula is known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Athens is popular for its ancient temples and landmarks as well as its influence as the birthplace of democracy. It is also home to The Acropolis. Korcula is popular for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

The Acropolis

How is Athens different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Athens 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 Athens are among the most recognizable in the world. As a historical capital of the world, this city has countless museums and archeological sites including the famous Acropolis, the National Archaeology Museum, and the Ancient Agora.

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 Athens or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Athens is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Athens have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Make sure you try the souvlaki, moussaka, and dolmades at any of the many local restaurants throughout the city.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. 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 Athens or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Athens is renowned for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

Athens is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. There are all-night dance clubs as well as local bars and chill live music venues.

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 Athens or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

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

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Athens is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is great for the beach. However, Athens is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Korcula for it's beautiful 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.

Athens is not a beach destination.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Athens 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 Athens is one of the most recognized in the world. The city's "historic triangle" is between Syntagma, Omonia, and Monastiraki Squares. This area is also at the political and financial heart of the city.

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 Athens or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is great for hiking. However, Athens is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Korcula for the hiking trails. 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.

Athens is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Athens or Korcula?

If you're looking to go shopping, Athens and Korcula both offer plenty of good spots.

Athens has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. Most neighborhoods have a shopping street but head to Ermou Street for some of the city's best shopping.

Korcula is a great destination for shopping. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for Families?

Both Athens and Korcula are very good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Athens. With its rich history, beautiful outdoor activities, and kid-friendly food, Athens is a fun place to explore with the whole family.

Korcula is 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.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for Couples?

Korcula is great for couples. Also, Athens is not as popular, but is still a nice city for romance.

Korcula is a great island 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.

Athens is a nice destination for couples. The city is historical, fascinating, and romantic, making it a beautiful place to explore as a couple.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Athens is renowned for backpackers. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Athens. The city has long been established as a backpackers destination with budget friendly food and plenty of hostels around town.

Plenty of backpackers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Athens or Korcula Better for Students?

Athens is a great destination for students. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Students come from all over to stay in Athens. International students will appreciate the rich history, archaeological ruins, and unique opportunities that are available here.

It's common for students to visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

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

Athens is a great destination for its public transit. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Athens can get you around easily. The city's metro system has 3 lines that connect to bus, tram and commuter rail lines.

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 Athens or Korcula a more walkable city?

Athens 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.

Athens is a very walkable city. You'll find the city's most walkable area's in the historical heart, where there are many pedestrian only streets and shopping areas.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable city. 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 Athens Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Athens?

How long in Athens or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Athens and Korcula. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Athens than in Korcula. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Athens, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Athens than Korcula 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 Athens.

One day in Athens or Korcula?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Korcula. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Athens or Korcula?

Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Korcula is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Athens or Korcula?

Athens is a great place to explore. It is common to spend five days here. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Athens has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Korcula. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Athens or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Athens. Because Athens is a large city, there are a variety of ways to spend your time. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic destination of Korcula. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Greece, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Greece, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Athens and Korcula, we can see that Athens 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 Athens would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Athens 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 Athens Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Athens or Korcula?

Athens has a larger population, and is about 230 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Athens 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 Athens or Korcula?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Athens or Korcula in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Athens as well as Korcula. Most visitors come to Athens for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 27°C (81°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Athens this time of the year. In the summer, Athens often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Athens gets 357 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in July than Korcula. Athens gets 6 mm (0.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Korcula in the Autumn?

Both Korcula and Athens are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The autumn months attract visitors to Athens because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

Athens is around the same temperature as Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Athens averages around 19°C (67°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Athens. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during autumn. Athens gets 206 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Athens usually receives less rain than Korcula. Athens gets 48 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Athens or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Athens during the winter are popular places to visit. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Athens this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Athens is a little warmer than Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Athens in January average around 10°C (51°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Athens often gets more sunshine than Korcula. Athens gets 143 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Athens usually gets less rain in January than Korcula. Athens gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Athens or Korcula in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Athens and Korcula. Many travelers come to Athens for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Furthermore, many visitors come to Korcula in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Athens is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Athens average around 16°C (60°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In Athens, it's very sunny this time of the year. Athens usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during spring. Athens gets 226 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Athens usually receives less rain than Korcula. Athens gets 25 mm (1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Athens