A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Taormina vs. Korcula for Food, Nightlife, Beaches, and Families

Should you visit Taormina 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 Taormina 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.

Taormina

Taormina is a historic, beautiful, and exclusive town. As this is a charming small town, visitors also come to explore the sights and local activities. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

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.

Taormina and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers
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 Taormina or Korcula?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Korcula. Although Taormina and Korcula are both popular with visitors, Korcula has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Korcula is more popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, historical sights, and hiking, while Taormina is known for its nightlife, resorts, and small town charm. Taormina is popular for its long history as a seaside resort town with luxury accommodation and beautiful views. Korcula is popular for its small old town and its beautiful natural setting. It is also home to St Mark's Cathedral.

How is Taormina different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Taormina
Korcula

You'll find a number of good museums and attractions in both Korcula and Taormina.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Taormina. The main landmark in town is the Greek Theater which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Also visit Madonna della Rocca as well as Castello di Taormina, which is perched above the sea.

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 Taormina or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Taormina
Korcula

Both Taormina and Korcula offer great local cuisine and restaurants.

Taormina has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. The local dishes draw on traditional Italian flavors such as pasta, tomato sauce, and vegetables, but they're also heavily influenced by the island's many historical invaders. You'll find a variety of ingredients in recipes including red chilies, tuna, swordfish, sardines, pine nuts, capers, and olives.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Korcula makes for a great culinary experience. 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 Taormina or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Taormina
Korcula

Taormina is a great destination for nightlife and partying. However, Korcula is a island with minimal options for its evening party scene.

The people in Taormina know how to have a good time. The town has a bit of an exclusive vibe and that's felt in the nightlife scene as well. There are lounges and exclusive clubs that serve fine wine and cocktails. You'll also find some late night dance clubs 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 Taormina or Korcula Better for Resorts?

Taormina
Korcula

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

In Taormina, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are a number of high end resorts and hotels in and near town that have pools and five star facilities.

Korcula is not a resort destination.


Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a island with good options for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a great island for the beach. Also, Taormina is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its beaches.

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.

Taormina offers a nice beach destination. The easiest beaches to access from town are Mazzaro Beach and Isola Bella Beach. The beaches are near hotels and there are restaurants as well as beach umbrellas and chairs that you can rent.

Is Taormina or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a great island for its historic old town charm. However, Taormina does not have a historic old town.

Korcula is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is filled with interesting buildings and historic streets that you can explore.

Taormina does not have a historic old town.


Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a great island for hiking. However, Taormina 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.

Taormina is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Taormina or Korcula?

Taormina
Korcula

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

Taormina has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. It's a fashion-conscious town and you'll find boutiques and shops that carry high end Italian brands. There are also shops that sell local pottery and other items.

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

Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Families?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a great island for its kid-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not known for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Korcula. 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.

Taormina is not the most family-friendly destination. Kids may not appreciate everything that the adults enjoy about this town, but they will likely have fun taking a ride on the cable car and visiting the Greek Theater. There are also wonderful desserts that kids will enjoy.


Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Couples?

Taormina
Korcula

Both Taormina and Korcula are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Taormina is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. It's a truly beautiful town with impressive views and a great atmosphere. It makes a wonderful stop off for couples or honeymooners who want to soak up the region's beauty.

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.

Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a island with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Taormina is not known for backpackers.

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

Taormina is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. There aren't many hostels around town and you won't find a large backpacker crowd here. The town has the feel of an exclusive resort community with high end resorts more common than anything else.

Is Taormina or Korcula Better for Students?

Taormina
Korcula

Korcula is a island with good options for its student-friendly activities. However, Taormina is not popular with students.

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

Taormina is not popular with students.


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

Taormina
Korcula

Taormina and Korcula both offer good public transit to get you around.

While Taormina offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are minibuses that travel to the more far-reaching parts of the town.

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

Is Taormina or Korcula a more walkable city?

Taormina
Korcula

Taormina 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.

Taormina is a very walkable town. Walking is one of the best ways to explore the town.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable town. 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 Taormina Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Taormina?

How long in Taormina or Korcula?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Taormina and Korcula. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Taormina than in Korcula. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Taormina, and 2-3 days is enough time in Korcula.

Families should spend more time in Korcula than Taormina. 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 Taormina. 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Korcula? Ideal Length of Stay
    Taormina 2-4 
    Korcula 2-3

One day in Taormina or Korcula?

Taormina is a small town with plenty to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

The beautiful island of Korcula offers scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


A weekend in Taormina or Korcula?

Taormina 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. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Taormina has to offer.

Korcula is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this island makes for a great vacation. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Korcula, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Taormina or Korcula?

Taormina 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.

Korcula is a popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Taormina or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Taormina. Since Taormina 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.

Korcula is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This island offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Taormina?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Taormina 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 Taormina and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Taormina 70
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Taormina 140
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Taormina and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Taormina 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 Taormina


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: Taormina Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Taormina

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

  • Sicily Catania Airport: Bus Transfer to and from Taormina: $7.49
  • Roundtrip Transfer from Messina: $41

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 Taormina or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Taormina 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
    Taormina 33
    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.
    Taormina 11
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Taormina

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Taormina.

  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Mount Etna and Taormina: $57
  • From Catania: Guided Tour of Taormina and Castelmola: $106
  • Tour di Taormina, Savoca e Forza D' Agro': $139
  • Tour Messina Taormina Castelmola: $150
  • Taormina private tour: $160
  • Sicily: Best of Taormina and Castelmola Private Tour: $213
  • Taormina. Highlights Tour with Isolabella and Castelmola: $267
  • Taormina & Castelmola: Shore tour from Messina cruise port: $428
  • Taormina Walking Tour & Ancient theather Private or shared: $588
  • 5 Hours Private Tour of Taormina from Messina: $606
  • Tour da Messina a Taormina, Castelmola, Isola Bella: $695
  • From Catania or Agrigento and Piazza Armerina Tour: $743

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
    Taormina 8.57
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Taormina

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Taormina:

  • Mt Etna Private guided walking Tour with Wine Tasting: $181
  • Catania: Mt. Etna Private Tour with Food and Wine Tasting: $299

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


Which is Bigger, Taormina or Korcula?

Taormina has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Korcula. When comparing the sizes of Taormina 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 Taormina 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 Taormina or Korcula in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Taormina as well as Korcula. The summer months attract visitors to Taormina because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Korcula this time of year.

In July, Taormina is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Taormina average around 27°C (80°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 Taormina this time of the year. In the summer, Taormina often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Taormina gets 332 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

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


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Taormina 27°C (80°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Korcula in the Autumn?

Both Korcula and Taormina are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Taormina this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Korcula for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Taormina is a little warmer than Korcula in the autumn. The daily temperature in Taormina averages around 21°C (69°F) in October, and Korcula fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during autumn. Taormina gets 189 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Taormina. In October, Taormina usually receives more rain than Korcula. Taormina gets 128 mm (5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Taormina 21°C (69°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Korcula in the Winter?

Both Korcula and Taormina during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Taormina 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.

In the winter, Taormina is a little warmer than Korcula. Typically, the winter temperatures in Taormina in January average around 13°C (55°F), and Korcula averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Taormina often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Taormina gets 115 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Taormina usually gets less rain in January than Korcula. Taormina gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Taormina 13°C (55°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Taormina or Korcula in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Taormina and Korcula. Many visitors come to Taormina in the spring for the beaches, the small town charm, and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Korcula for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

In April, Taormina is generally around the same temperature as Korcula. Daily temperatures in Taormina 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 Taormina, it's very sunny this time of the year. Taormina usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula during spring. Taormina gets 207 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Taormina usually receives less rain than Korcula. Taormina gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Taormina 16°C (60°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Taormina

Taormina Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 13°C (55°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 14°C (57°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 18 mm (0.7 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 24°C (74°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 27°C (80°F) 6 mm (0.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 27°C (81°F) 9 mm (0.4 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 25°C (76°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 21°C (69°F) 128 mm (5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 17°C (62°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 14°C (57°F) 87 mm (3.4 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)