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

Should you visit Barcelona or Korcula?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Barcelona and Korcula can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Barcelona

Barcelona is a high energy, youthful, and colorful city. With plenty of activities and things to do, it's a huge city that draws plenty of visitors. 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 historic, scenic, and laid back island. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches.

Barcelona and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Barcelona or Korcula?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Barcelona. Although Barcelona and Korcula are popular destinations, Barcelona has more sights and attractions for tourists. Barcelona is very popular for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Korcula attracts visitors for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking. Barcelona is more touristy than Korcula and is known for its landmarks designed by Antoni Gaudí, its wild nightlife, and its urban beaches. It is also well known for Basilica Sagrada Familia. Korcula is famous for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting.

How is Barcelona different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Barcelona is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Barcelona. Architecture and history all contribute to the city's impressive sights and museums. Famous landmarks include the Basílica de la Sagrada Família, Casa Milà, and the Palace of Catalan Music. In addition to Casa Milà, there are several other landmarks that are designed by Gaudi. You can expect a crowd outside any of his creations.

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 Barcelona or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at great restaurants in both Barcelona and Korcula.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Barcelona makes for a great culinary experience. With easy access to fresh produce, there are many food markets around town. You'll also find great fresh local dishes at the many restaurants. While some restaurants are more touristy, particularly along Las Ramblas, there are also many local options that offer higher quality dishes. Make sure you try the paella, croquettes, and jamon iberico. Many visitors enjoy taking a cooking class while they're in town as well.

Korcula has a huge number of terrific 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 Barcelona or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

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

Barcelona is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once for nightlife. The city offers an amazing nightlife at a much more affordable price than many places in Europe. There are beach parties, boat parties, and bars that stay packed late into the night. The city also hosts many street fiestas and music festivals.

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 Barcelona or Korcula Better for Music?

Barcelona is renowned for its live music scene. However, Korcula is not a live music destination.

Live music, and music in many other forms, is everyone in Barcelona Popular music venues include Tablao de Carmen, Razzmatazz, and Jamboree.

Korcula is not a live music destination.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Korcula. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Barcelona is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is a well-known place for its beaches. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for the beache.

The beaches at Korcula attract visitors from all over. 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.

Barcelona offers a nice beach destination. The city features long sandy beaches where you can soak up the Mediterranean sun right in the heart of town. Many of the beaches can get crowded during the warmer months, but if you're looking for a party, then this is the place. These are urban beaches, so don't expect the pristine coastal setting that you might find in a more remote areas. Popular beaches include Bogatell Beach, Barceloneta Beach, and Nova Icària.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Both Barcelona and Korcula have great historic old towns worth visiting.

Barcelona is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. Dating back 2,000 years the Gothic Quarter remains a hub of life and activity. It's fun to explore the wandering streets or people watch in one of the plazas. There are also many fascinating boutique shops and restaurants. Many people consider the Gothic Quarter to be one of the best parts of Barcelona.

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 Barcelona or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Korcula is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Korcula is a popular spot for hiking. 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.

Barcelona is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Barcelona or Korcula?

Barcelona is renowned for its shopping opportunities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its shopping areas.

The abundance of shops in Barcelona make it a world-class shopping destination. Head to Portal De L'Angel, Rambla de Catalunya, or Passeig De Gracia for some of the city's best shopping districts.

Korcula has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for Families?

Korcula is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

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.

Barcelona is a family-friendly city. The city has a bit of a party vibe, but there are also kid-friendly activities everyone. With a number of museums, an aquarium, and lots of parks, the whole family can stay entertained. There's also a playground with a great view right by Sagrada Familia. Also make sure you check out the Magic Fountain Show near Plaça d'Espanya, wander through the aquarium, or sample some chocolate at the Chocolate Museum.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for Couples?

Korcula is a well-known place for romance. Also, Barcelona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its romantic activities.

Korcula is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Barcelona makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's an active city with a party atmosphere, so young couples will enjoy their time here. Couples can take a sunset cruise or enjoy a Flamenco show. There are also many great viewpoints around town.

Is Barcelona or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona. There are many hostels around town, each with its own personality. Many of the hostels also organize activities or dinners for guests so it's easy to meet other travelers. Backpackers will also appreciate the young vibe and late night party venues that keep the city fun and entertaining.

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 Barcelona or Korcula Better for Students?

Barcelona is renowned for students. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

Barcelona is a very popular city for students. This is a popular study abroad destination and you'll find international students from around the world. It's a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. It's also a lively city, but do expect the price tag to be higher than other Spanish cities.

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

Barcelona 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 Barcelona can get you around easily. There's a metro, bus, and tram system that navigates the city. It's a huge city, and while many places are accessible by public transit, sometimes the trip can be hot and frustrating.

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 Barcelona or Korcula a more walkable city?

Korcula is a island with good options for its walkability. However, Barcelona is not a good city for its high level of walkability.

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

Barcelona is generally not a very walkable city. The city is more spread out than many other major European cities and you'll find wide roads with lots of car traffic. There are some neighborhoods and plazas that are fun to explore on foot and the city has designed "superilles," which are areas where car traffic has been directed around pedestrian-friendly plazas so visitors can explore, relax, or play.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Barcelona?

How long in Barcelona or Korcula?

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

Families should spend more time in Korcula than Barcelona. 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 Korcula than Barcelona. 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 Barcelona 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 Barcelona.

One day in Barcelona or Korcula?

Because Barcelona 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.

You'll find shopping and museums around the island of Korcula. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Barcelona or Korcula?

Because Barcelona 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.

You'll find museums and food around the historic destination of Korcula. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Barcelona or Korcula?

Barcelona 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 Barcelona has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the scenic island of Korcula. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Barcelona or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Barcelona. Because Barcelona 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.

Korcula is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain, 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 Barcelona and Korcula, we can see that Barcelona 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 Barcelona would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Barcelona 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 Barcelona Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Barcelona or Korcula?

Barcelona has a larger population, and is about 500 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Barcelona 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 Barcelona 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 Barcelona or Korcula in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Barcelona and Korcula. The summer months attract visitors to Barcelona because of the beaches, the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the summer, Barcelona is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the summer temperatures in Barcelona in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Korcula averages at about 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In Barcelona, it's very sunny this time of the year. Barcelona usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Barcelona gets 308 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Korcula. Barcelona gets 22 mm (0.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Barcelona or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Barcelona as well as Korcula. The city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Barcelona this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Barcelona is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Barcelona average around 17°C (63°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the autumn, Barcelona often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Barcelona gets 181 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Barcelona gets 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Barcelona or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Barcelona are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Barcelona for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Barcelona is around the same temperature as Korcula in the winter. The daily temperature in Barcelona averages around 9°C (48°F) in January, and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

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

In January, Barcelona usually receives less rain than Korcula. Barcelona gets 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Barcelona or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Barcelona during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Barcelona in the spring for the beaches, the activities around the city, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Barcelona is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the spring temperatures in Barcelona in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Korcula averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Barcelona. In the spring, Barcelona often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Barcelona gets 204 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Barcelona usually gets less rain in April than Korcula. Barcelona gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Barcelona