Konoba "Marco Polo" Old Town Korcula

To try the best specialty of Korcula, book a table in Konoba Marco Polo and order the region's pasta specialty called Žrnovski Makaruni, traditionally made by women of Žrnovo locality of the island. They can be served with a beef ragu, seafood or cheese, but this restaurant also offers a lobster topping that will be a true treat for real hedonists. Since its located in the center of Old Town, it is a great option for a mouthwatering lunch while exploring the historic landmarks.

Konoba Marco Polo is a charming family-run spot just off the main square, named (of course) after the island’s most famous son. The place feels like a well-kept secret: a shady terrace tucked behind high stone walls and fragrant jasmine, where lanterns swing overhead and the ambience whispers of old-world Croatian hospitality. I dove straight into their signature dish—a plate of grilled local fish, seasoned simply with lemon and the island’s fantastic olive oil.

Two konobas (Local family kitchens where Dalmatian cuisine was born) can be found in town, but the one most frequented by locals is Marko Polo Konoba. We were going to stop here for lunch, but unfortunately a private event was being held at the Konoba. The food is fresh, prices affordable, portions are generous, house wine is fantastic, and the view of Kneza port under the straw pergola makes for a wonderful afternoon lunch.

As you explore the Old Town, you’ll also notice Marco Polo shops, Marco Polo restaurants and even Marco Polo ice cream. Although Marco Polo is generally known as a Venetian merchant, writer and explorer, historical documents show he was captured in Korčula by the Genoese during a naval battle. Because of this, many people in Korčula claim he was born on the island.

Korcula Old Town is a typical medieval walled Dalmatian town, with its round defensive walls and towers and red-roofed houses where Marco Polo (1254 – 1324) the famous world traveler and writer, as well as a Venetian merchant, is reputed to have been born. In the Old Town, his supposed house of birth will shortly be turned into a Museum of Marco Polo.

But by far the biggest attraction in Korčula Old Town is the supposed house that the famous Venetian explorer, Marco Polo was born in. The actual house does not originate from the times of Marco Polo (but was built in the 17th century). However we found it is still worth a poke around – at least to go up its watchtower for some great views.

While there make sure to visit Lumbarda and its sandy beach, the birth house of Marco Polo in the town of Korcula, and check events with Moreska dance. If they take place while you are on Peljesac make sure to visit Korcula on those days because you will see a unique costumed dance that symbolizes the fight between Croats and Moors.

For those of you who may have never heard this story, Korcula believes that the legendary explorer Marco Polo was born on the island. We have a house, numerous cafes, ice cream shops & restaurants named after him. There are also people on the island with the family name “De-Polo”.

Return to Korcula and dine at Marco Polo, a restaurant inspired by the famous explorer. Enjoy a blend of Mediterranean and international cuisine before ending the evening with a cocktail at a waterfront bar.

The Korčula day trip from Dubrovnik is a journey through Croatia’s sun-drenched landscapes to Korčula, the legendary birthplace of Marco Polo.

It is located on top of a tower on the city wall and offers some breathtaking views of the surrounding areas.