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

Should you visit Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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.

Cefalu

Cefalu is a historic, touristy, and charming fishing village. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the beaches, hiking, and food.

Korcula

Korcula is a scenic, laid back, and historic island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the scuba diving and snorkeling, beaches, and hiking.

Cefalu and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • 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
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Cefalu or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Korcula than Cefalu, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Korcula is better known for its museums, scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, and shopping, while Cefalu is more popular for its resorts, small town charm, and impressive beauty. Cefalu is well known for its beautiful blue waters, relaxing atmosphere, and great local food. Korcula is well known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. Also, Korcula is famous for St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Cefalu different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

Korcula offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

Cefalu offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most visitors spend their time on the beach or getting lost in the town's charm, but if you're looking for specific sights and museums you can check out the Cathedral, Museo Mandralisca, or Tempio di Diana.


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

Cefalu
Korcula

Foodies will find both Cefalu and Korcula both to be very good destinations.

Cefalu has a huge number of terrific restaurants. Despite being a popular tourist hot spot, there are still charming restaurants around town that serve up local dishes made with local ingredients. Many seaside restaurants have a charming atmosphere and a unique Sicilian flare.

Dining out in Korcula is an experience not to be missed. 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 Cefalu or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Cefalu
Korcula

The respectable nightlife scene is relatively similar in Cefalu and Korcula.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Cefalu. The town is small and mellow without a huge party scene. There are some beach resorts with bars and clubs attached where you can enjoy a drink by the water.

Korcula is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 Cefalu or Korcula Better for Resorts?

Cefalu
Korcula

Cefalu is a great destination for its resorts. However, Korcula is not a resort destination.

In Cefalu, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a wide range of resorts to choose from including Club Med and even a nature hotel.

Korcula is not a resort destination.


Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its diving and snorkeling. However, Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Cefalu
Korcula

Cefalu and Korcula both offer very good beaches.

Many people visit Cefalu for it's beautiful beaches. The town has nice beaches with good swimming and kayaking opportunities. Some of the beaches can get quite crowded but the water is blue and the views are nice. Some of the best beaches near town include Cefalu Beach, Kalura Beach, and Lido Angeli Del Mare.

Korcula is considered a top beach destination. 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.

Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Cefalu
Korcula

Visitors enjoy the very good old town areas in both Cefalu and Korcula.

There are many historical things to see in the old town of Cefalu. The town is charming and small, making it a nice place to explore.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Korcula. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.


Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a very popular place for its hiking trails. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting 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.

Cefalu is a good destination for hiking. There are a few walking trails outside of town but the most popular is hiking to the top of La Rocca. It's at least an hours walk to the top but from there you can enjoy one of the best views of the harbor.

Is the Shopping Better in Cefalu or Korcula?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its shopping opportunities. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Korcula. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Cefalu has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. It's a small, touristy town, so shopping isn't the main attraction. There are some interesting shops that are fun to pop into though.

Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Families?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cefalu is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Korcula is very family-friendly. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Cefalu. Kids will enjoy beach time or wandering down the promenade, Lungomare. You can swim or simply relax by the water. Another fun activity is to climb the nearby mountain of La Rocca. The kids might even spot a local animal.


Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Couples?

Cefalu
Korcula

Cefalu is renowned for its romantic activities. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

Cefalu is a great fishing village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's natural beauty and Italian atmosphere make this a perfect couples destination. There are water activities for the adventurous as well as beautiful beaches and great restaurants.

Korcula is a great fishing village 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 Cefalu or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for backpackers.

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.

Cefalu is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There's not a big backpacker vibe to the town, and you won't find tons of hostels, but there are affordable places that budget travelers can stay.

Is Cefalu or Korcula Better for Students?

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Cefalu is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Korcula. More students have been moving to the island, and you'll find a growing student population.

Cefalu is not popular with students.


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

Cefalu
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for times when you don't have a car. However, Cefalu is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Korcula has some public transit options. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Cefalu. Public transit is limited but taxis are a good alternative for getting out of town and into the surrounding areas.

Is Cefalu or Korcula a more walkable city?

Cefalu
Korcula

Cefalu 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.

Cefalu is a very walkable fishing village. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable fishing village. 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 Cefalu Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Cefalu?

How long in Cefalu or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cefalu and Korcula. In our opinion, Korcula has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Korcula than Cefalu. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cefalu, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Korcula than Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cefalu 1-3 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Cefalu or Korcula?

Cefalu is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This fishing village offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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 Cefalu or Korcula?

Cefalu might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cefalu has to offer.

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 Cefalu or Korcula?

Cefalu is a great place to explore. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.

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 Cefalu or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cefalu. Since Cefalu is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. It's also a relaxing resort destination. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the historic 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 Adventure Tours to Italy, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Cefalu?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cefalu is €119, 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 Cefalu and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cefalu 87
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cefalu 174
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Cefalu and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Cefalu 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 Cefalu


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: Cefalu Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cefalu 4.29
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Cefalu

Also for Cefalu, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Alberi del Paradiso, Cefalù for APT Palermo or vice versa, Private Transfer: $98
  • Club Med Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Costa Verde HOTEL Cefalù, for Palermo airport, Private Transfer: $87
  • Departure Private Transfer Cefalù to Palermo Airport PMO by Business Car or Van: $156
  • Hotel Kalura, Cefalù for Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Le Calette, Cefalù to Palermo airport or vice versa, Private Transfer: $109
  • Private transfer from Palermo airport to Cefalù or vice versa: $104
  • Transfer Palermo Airport - Cefalù and vice versa: $174

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Korcula

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Korcula:

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Cefalu or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Cefalu 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
    Cefalu 28
    Korcula 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Cooking Class in a Sicilian countryhouse: $251

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.
    Cefalu 5.71
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Cefalu

For Cefalu, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Etna tour from Cefalù: $62
  • Nebrodi and Halaesa valley jeep tours: $125
  • Safari Jeep Wild Adventure: $136
  • High Madonie wild jeep adventure: $163
  • Madonie wild adventure: $224
  • Cefalu Etna wild jeep experience: $272

Tours and Activities in Korcula

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

  • 1 Hour Private Walking Tour in Korcula : $75
  • 3 Islands Tour - HopOnHopOff - Daily Ticket : $33
  • Bits of History - Half day kayak Tour: $66
  • City tour Korćula - private walking tour: $117
  • Croatia Korcula Island Buggy Safari Tour: $120
  • Dubrovnik Republic Tour From Korcula and Orebic: $98
  • From Dubrovnik Private tour to Korčula Island: $342
  • From Dubrovnik Old Town Private yacht cruise: $3,743
  • Half Day Original Buggy Adventure and Safari Tour in Korcula: $109
  • Half day Lago di Korcula Half-Day Sea Kayak Tour: $64
  • Jeanneau Prestige 440 Fly Private Boat Tour: $1,497
  • Korcula Island Mountain E Bike Tour: $186

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cefalu 11
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Cefalu

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

  • Castelbuono Tour and Wine Tasting in a Medieval Abbey: $49

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 Cefalu and Korcula, we can see that Cefalu 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 Cefalu would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Cefalu 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 Cefalu Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Cefalu or Korcula?

Cefalu has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Cefalu 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 Cefalu 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 Cefalu or Korcula in the Summer?

Both Korcula and Cefalu during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Cefalu for the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Korcula because of the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 26°C (79°F) in July, and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cefalu. In the summer, Cefalu often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Cefalu gets 325 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in July than Korcula. Cefalu gets 2 mm (0.1 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cefalu 26°C (79°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cefalu and Korcula. The autumn months attract visitors to Cefalu because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the autumn, Cefalu is around the same temperature as Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cefalu in October average around 19°C (67°F), and Korcula averages at about 18°C (64°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during autumn. Cefalu gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of rain as Korcula. Cefalu gets 75 mm (2.9 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cefalu 19°C (67°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Korcula in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cefalu as well as Korcula. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Cefalu this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Korcula for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Cefalu is generally a little warmer than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Cefalu average around 10°C (51°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Cefalu often gets more sunshine than Korcula. Cefalu gets 153 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Cefalu usually gets less rain in January than Korcula. Cefalu gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cefalu 10°C (51°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Cefalu or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Cefalu are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Cefalu for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Korcula in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty.

Cefalu is around the same temperature as Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Cefalu averages around 15°C (58°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cefalu. Cefalu usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during spring. Cefalu gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cefalu usually receives less rain than Korcula. Cefalu gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cefalu 15°C (58°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Cefalu

Cefalu Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 10°C (51°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 19°C (65°F) 23 mm (0.9 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 26°C (79°F) 2 mm (0.1 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 26°C (79°F) 14 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 24°C (74°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (67°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 15°C (59°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)