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

Should you visit Siena 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 Siena and Korcula can help you decide which place is right for you.

Siena

Siena is a medieval, history, and beautiful city. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. 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.

Siena and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Siena or Korcula?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Korcula. Although Siena and Korcula are popular destinations, Korcula has more sights and attractions for tourists. Korcula is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and hiking, while Siena attracts visitors for its museums, nightlife, historical sights, and impressive beauty. Siena is famous for its beautiful medieval architecture, its delicious local restaurants, and the twice yearly Palio horserace. Korcula is famous for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also well known for St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Siena different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Siena 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 Siena. At the heart of the city is Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and Piazza del Campo. Other world famous sights include Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico, Torre del Mangia, and Pinacoteca Nazionale.

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 Siena or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Siena and Korcula offer superb local cuisine and restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Siena makes for a great culinary experience. The town is all about local flavors and many restaurants use local ingredients in their dishes. Pecorino of Pienza is the local cheese, and you'll also find many cured meats. Local pasta dishes include wild boar ragu and a local spaghetti. You'll also find local meats such as lamb, rabbit, chicken and pork.

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 Siena or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

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

Siena has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. The nightlife is laid back and relaxed. Most visitors enjoy socializing in the evening and meeting friends at Piazza del Campo. There are often live performances which you can enjoy as well as many cafes and wine bars around town.

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 Siena or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Korcula is very good for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Siena or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Korcula is notable for its beaches. However, Siena 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.

Siena is not a beach destination.

Is Siena or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Siena 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 Siena is one of the most recognized in the world. The beautiful old town is filled with medieval brick buildings. At the heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, which is a lively square with many neighborhoods spreading out from there.

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 Siena or Korcula Better for Hiking?

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

Siena is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Siena or Korcula?

Both Siena and Korcula are nice shopping destinations.

Siena is a great destination for shopping. The main shopping street in town is Via Banchi di Sopra, which has many boutiques that sell clothing, bags, and other items. The town also has many leather goods, ceramics, and other local items available.

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

Is Siena or Korcula Better for Families?

Korcula is notable for its family-friendly activities. However, Siena is a mediocre city 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.

Siena is not always a place people visit with their families. The beauty and history may be lost to the little ones but there is a great atmosphere that even the young ones will appreciate. Kids will enjoy climbing to the top of Torre del Mangia or visiting one of the many playgrounds around town.

Is Siena or Korcula Better for Couples?

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

Siena is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Korcula is a great city 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 Siena or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Siena and Korcula are nice destinations for backpackers.

Siena is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers visit Siena as a daytrip from nearby Florence. While there are some affordable places to stay here, the atmosphere isn't as backpacker friendly as nearby Florence.

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

Is Siena or Korcula Better for Students?

Siena 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 Siena. It's home to one of the oldest universities in Italy, and it's a wonderful study abroad destination for any student who wants to spend some time in Italy.

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

Both Siena and Korcula offer nice public transit options.

Siena has a few public transit options. TIEMME is the bus service that runs in and around town. Many lines pass through the train station and provide service from there.

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

Is Siena or Korcula a more walkable city?

Siena 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.

Siena is a very walkable city. The compact town center is best explored on foot.

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 Siena Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Siena?

How long in Siena or Korcula?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Siena 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 Siena.

One day in Siena or Korcula?

In Siena, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city 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 laid back 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 Siena or Korcula?

In Siena, 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Siena 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 Siena or Korcula?

Siena 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 Siena or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Siena. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Siena. 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 historic 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Italy, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy, 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 Siena and Korcula, we can see that Siena 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 Siena would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Siena 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 Siena Expensive? and Is Korcula Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Siena or Korcula?

Siena has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Siena 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 Siena 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 Siena or Korcula in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Siena and Korcula. Many travelers come to Siena 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 the summer, Siena is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the summer temperatures in Siena 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 Siena, it's very sunny this time of the year. Siena usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during summer. Siena gets 316 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Siena usually receives more rain than Korcula. Siena gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Siena or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Siena as well as Korcula. Many visitors come to Siena in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Siena is generally cooler than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Siena average around 16°C (61°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, Siena often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Siena gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets more rain in October than Korcula. Siena gets 87 mm (3.4 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Siena or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Siena are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Siena for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Korcula because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Siena is cooler than Korcula in the winter. The daily temperature in Siena averages around 7°C (45°F) in January, and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

Siena usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during winter. Siena gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Siena usually receives less rain than Korcula. Siena gets 64 mm (2.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Siena or Korcula in the Spring?

Both Korcula and Siena during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Siena because of the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In the spring, Siena is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the spring temperatures in Siena in April average around 12°C (54°F), and Korcula averages at about 15°C (59°F).

In Korcula, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the spring, Siena often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Siena gets 192 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun.

Siena usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Korcula. Siena gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Korcula and Siena