A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Varenna vs. Korcula for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Families

Should you visit Varenna 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 Varenna 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.

Varenna

Varenna is a scenic, pristine, and beautiful village. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, 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.

Varenna and Korcula: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Lake Como
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
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
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Varenna or Korcula?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Korcula than Varenna, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Korcula is better known for its scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and historical sights, while Varenna is more popular for its food and impressive beauty. Varenna is well known for its beautiful location by Lake Como. 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 Varenna different from Korcula?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Varenna
Korcula

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Varenna and Korcula.

Varenna offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people visit the town for its beautiful setting on Lake Como. There are some popular sights around town though such as the Church of San Giorgio and Castello di Vezio.

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 Varenna or Korcula? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Varenna
Korcula

Varenna is renowned for its restaurant scene. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Many restaurants in Varenna have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Despite the touristy nature of the town, the restaurants are surprisingly good and you'll find some excellent Italian food around town.

Korcula has a number of nationally recognized food spots and 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 Varenna or Korcula Better for Nightlife?

Varenna
Korcula

Both Varenna and Korcula have respectable vibes after the sun sets.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Varenna. The best way to enjoy the evening is to head to a restaurant and spend the time sipping wine in a laid back setting.

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 Varenna or Korcula Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Varenna
Korcula

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

Varenna is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Varenna or Korcula Better for Beaches?

Varenna
Korcula

Korcula is an excellent place to visit for the beache. However, Varenna is not a beach destination.

Many people visit Korcula for it's beautiful 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.

Varenna is not a beach destination.

Is Varenna or Korcula Better for its Old Town?

Varenna
Korcula

Korcula is an excellent place to visit for its old town. However, Varenna does not have a historic old town.

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.

Varenna does not have a historic old town.

Is Varenna or Korcula Better for Hiking?

Varenna
Korcula

Hiking trails can be found around both Varenna and Korcula, and they are very good.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Varenna. There are lakefront trails and other hiking options near town. The Lungolago di Varenna - Baia di Varenna loop follows the water and makes for a pleasant stroll.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around 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.


Is the Shopping Better in Varenna or Korcula?

Varenna
Korcula

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Varenna and Korcula.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Varenna. The streets are lined with artisan shops and boutique venders that are fun to explore.

Many visitors go to Korcula to go shopping. You'll find boutiques, small retail shops, or stores selling knick knacks around town.

Is Varenna or Korcula Better for Families?

Varenna
Korcula

Korcula is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Varenna 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 Varenna. The charming village has play areas for children and the beautiful Villa Monastero, which are gardens that they'll enjoy exploring. It's also worth visiting the Castle of Vezio.

Is Varenna or Korcula Better for Couples?

Varenna
Korcula

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

Varenna is a great village for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This beautiful village has a romantic atmosphere with a "lovers promenade" and many stunning views. It makes the perfect couples trip, whether you're on your honeymoon or just need some time away.

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

Varenna
Korcula

Varenna and Korcula are both notable destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Varenna. There are some hostels and guesthouses that cater to budget travelers. There's also plenty of outdoor activities that are free.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Korcula. You'll find enough hostels around the island to choose from and there are usually plenty of backpackers hanging out.

Is Varenna or Korcula Better for Students?

Varenna
Korcula

Korcula is a good destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Varenna 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.

Varenna is not popular with students.

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

Varenna
Korcula

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Varenna and Korcula.

Varenna has some public transit options. The town is easily accessible by public transit and once you're in town you can walk everywhere.

You'll find some public transit in Korcula, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are buses around the island but not all routes are very frequent.


Is Varenna or Korcula a more walkable city?

Varenna
Korcula

Varenna is renowned for its high level of walkability. Also, Korcula is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

Getting around Varenna on foot is easy. Everything is walkable and the town is best explored on foot.

Korcula is a somewhat walkable 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 Varenna Worth Visiting? and Is Korcula Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Korcula or Varenna?

How long in Varenna or Korcula?

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

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

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

One day in Varenna or Korcula?

In Varenna, you'll find museums and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the food. This village 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 Varenna or Korcula?

In Varenna, you'll find food 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. One reason most visitors come is for the food. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Varenna 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 Varenna or Korcula?

Varenna is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this 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.

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 Varenna or Korcula?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Varenna. Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Varenna. One reason most visitors come is for the food. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Budget Tours to Italy, The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy, The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Korcula or Varenna?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Varenna is €164, 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 Varenna and Korcula in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Varenna 86
    Korcula 58
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Varenna 172
    Korcula 116
Compare Hotels in Varenna and Korcula

Looking for a hotel in Varenna 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 Varenna


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: Varenna Hotel Prices and Korcula Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Varenna 34
    Korcula 1.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Varenna

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

  • Varenna : Private transfer to/from Malpensa Airport: $358

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 Varenna or Korcula?

Prices for flights to both Korcula and Varenna 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
    Varenna 53
    Korcula 28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Varenna

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

  • Cooking Class at a Local's Home: $155

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.
    Varenna 34
    Korcula 11

Tours and Activities in Varenna

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

  • Lake Como Shared Boat Tour: $32
  • Lake Como Sightseeing Cruise (90 minutes): $43
  • Dining Experience at a Local's Home: $112
  • Sunset shared boat tour with aperitif from Varenna: $118
  • Picnic Experience in the Italian Alps: $150
  • Private Luxury Boat Tour of Lake Como with Stops & Drinks: $491
  • Bellagio: Private Tour on Vintage Wooden Boat: $664
  • Lake Como: Grand Private Tour 5 hours Invictus boat: $1,551

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
    Varenna 23
    Korcula 9.69

Sample the Local Flavors in Varenna

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

  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Castello di Vezio: $112
  • Wine Tasting and Entry Ticket to Villa Monastero: $134

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


Which is Bigger, Varenna or Korcula?

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

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

Varenna is cooler than Korcula in the summer. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 23°C (73°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 Varenna. In the summer, Varenna often gets less sunshine than Korcula. Varenna gets 250 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 345 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Varenna. Varenna usually gets more rain in July than Korcula. Varenna gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Varenna 23°C (73°F) 
    Korcula 26°C (80°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Korcula in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Varenna and Korcula. The autumn months attract visitors to Varenna because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, 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, Varenna is cooler than Korcula. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Varenna in October average around 15°C (58°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. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during autumn. Varenna gets 152 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 200 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Varenna gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Varenna usually receives more rain than Korcula. Varenna gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Varenna 15°C (58°F) 
    Korcula 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Korcula in the Winter?

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

It's quite cold in Varenna in the winter. In January, Varenna is generally much colder than Korcula. Daily temperatures in Varenna average around 5°C (41°F), and Korcula fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Varenna often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Korcula. Varenna gets 119 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Korcula receives 128 hours of full sun.

Varenna usually gets less rain in January than Korcula. Varenna gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 83 mm (3.3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Varenna 5°C (41°F) 
    Korcula 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Varenna or Korcula in the Spring?

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

Varenna is cooler than Korcula in the spring. The daily temperature in Varenna averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Korcula fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

It's quite sunny in Korcula. Varenna usually receives less sunshine than Korcula during spring. Varenna gets 176 hours of sunny skies, while Korcula receives 212 hours of full sun in the spring.

It's quite rainy in Varenna. In April, Varenna usually receives more rain than Korcula. Varenna gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Korcula receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Varenna 13°C (55°F) 
    Korcula 15°C (59°F)

Typical Weather for Korcula and Varenna

Varenna Korcula
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)