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

Should you visit Imperia or Korcula?

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

Should I visit Imperia or Korcula? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Imperia

Imperia is a charming, undiscovered, and authentic town. 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. Other popular activities here include beaches, hiking, and shopping.

Imperia and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Imperia or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Korcula. Although Imperia and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Korcula has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Korcula is more popular for its food, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Imperia is known for its nightlife. Korcula is more touristy than Imperia and is known for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also home to St Mark's Cathedral. Imperia is popular for its access to the Ligurian coastline.

How is Imperia different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Imperia
Korcula

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Imperia or Korcula.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Imperia. There are several interesting buildings of importance around town.

Korcula is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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 Imperia or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

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.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Imperia. Food ranges from typical Italian dishes to local recipes that use local ingredients. Unique ingredients in the area include trumpet zucchini, flat breads, and anchovies.

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Imperia
Korcula

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

Imperia has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are some bars and lively restaurants around town where you can spend an enjoyable evening.

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 Imperia or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is a popular place for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Korcula has a few good snorkeling spots. There are a few snorkeling tours that leave from the island.

Imperia is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for the beach. However, Imperia is not a beach destination.

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.

Imperia is not a beach destination.

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for its historic old town charm. However, Imperia does not have a historic old town.

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.

Imperia does not have a historic old town.

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Imperia 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.

Imperia is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Imperia or Korcula?

Imperia
Korcula

Both Imperia and Korcula are good shopping destinations.

Many visitors go to Imperia to go shopping. There are some shopping streets in town that have a mix of local brands and standard clothing shops.

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

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Families?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit 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.

Imperia is a family-friendly town. There's some nice walking trails in the countryside that the kids will enjoy.

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Couples?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is notable for couples. Also, Imperia is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Imperia is a nice destination for couples. It's a beautiful town with a nice atmosphere that offers a nice break from the tourist crowds.


Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Imperia
Korcula

Both Imperia and Korcula are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Imperia. Accommodation tends to be affordable and there's an off-the-beaten-path vibe that some backpackers will appreciate.

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.

Is Imperia or Korcula Better for Students?

Imperia
Korcula

Korcula is a popular place for students. However, Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Imperia is not popular with students.

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

Imperia
Korcula

Both Imperia and Korcula offer good public transit options.

Imperia has a few public transit options. There are buses that connect the city to different areas.

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


Is Imperia or Korcula a more walkable city?

Imperia
Korcula

Imperia and Korcula both are good when exploring on foot.

Imperia is a somewhat walkable town. Parts of the town are convenient to walk around.

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.

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

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Imperia?

How long in Imperia or Korcula?

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

Families should spend more time in Korcula than Imperia. 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 Imperia. 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 Korcula than Imperia 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 Imperia or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Imperia 1-2 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Imperia or Korcula?

In Imperia, you'll find nightlife and food. 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, you'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. This island offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Imperia or Korcula?

In Imperia, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Imperia has to offer.

In Korcula, you'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Korcula has to offer.


Five days in Imperia or Korcula?

Imperia is a great place to explore. 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 great place to explore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

A week in Imperia or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Imperia. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Imperia. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Korcula. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Korcula. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in Italy, The Best Luxury Tours to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Imperia?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Imperia is €108, 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 Imperia and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Imperia 51
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Imperia 102
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Imperia and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Imperia 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 Imperia


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: Imperia Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Imperia 36
    Korcula 1.40

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 Imperia or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Imperia 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
    Imperia 35
    Korcula 28

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.
    Imperia 13
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Imperia

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Imperia are as follows:

  • Imperia - Old Town Private Historic Walking Tour: $428

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
    Imperia 7.50
    Korcula 9.69

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


Which is Bigger, Imperia or Korcula?

Imperia has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Imperia 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 Imperia 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 Imperia or Korcula in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Imperia and Korcula. Many visitors come to Imperia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 25°C (76°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 26°C (80°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Korcula this time of the year. In Imperia, it's very sunny this time of the year. Imperia usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Imperia gets 295 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Imperia usually receives less rain than Korcula. Imperia gets 12 mm (0.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Imperia 25°C (76°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Imperia as well as Korcula. Most visitors come to Imperia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Korcula because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Imperia is around the same temperature as Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Imperia averages around 19°C (66°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Korcula. In the autumn, Imperia often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Imperia gets 183 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Imperia gets 97 mm (3.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Imperia 19°C (66°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Imperia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Imperia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the winter, Imperia is a little warmer than Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Imperia in January average around 11°C (51°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

Imperia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during winter. Imperia gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Imperia usually receives less rain than Korcula. Imperia gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Imperia 11°C (51°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Imperia or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Imperia during the spring are popular places to visit. The natural beauty are the main draw to Imperia this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Korcula for the beaches and the natural beauty.

In April, Imperia is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Imperia average around 15°C (58°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Imperia often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Imperia gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Imperia usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Korcula. Imperia gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Korcula and Imperia

Imperia Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 11°C (51°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 11°C (51°F) 73 mm (2.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 12°C (54°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 15°C (58°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 18°C (64°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 25°C (76°F) 12 mm (0.5 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 34 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 22°C (72°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 19°C (66°F) 97 mm (3.8 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 14°C (58°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 12°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)