Walking Tour in Korcula with Lady Franchesca

Discover Korcula’s History with Lady Franchesca

This walking tour in Korcula offers a unique perspective on the island’s most famous son, Marco Polo, led by none other than his supposed mistress, Lady Franchesca. Priced at $210.68 per group (up to 15 people), the tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and provides a private, personalized experience. The tour is highly booked, with an average booking window of 21 days in advance, indicating strong interest from visitors.

The tour begins at Ulica Plokata 19 in Korcula Town, with pickup offered to make arrival easier. It includes professional guidance from Lady Franchesca herself, who shares stories and insights into Marco Polo’s life beyond the typical historical accounts. Although admission to Marco Polo House is not included in the price, the tour provides a rich narrative and the opportunity to explore Korcula’s charming old town.

This experience is ideal for those who seek more than just sightseeing, wanting instead to hear personalized tales about one of the world’s most celebrated explorers. The intimate group setting ensures plenty of opportunities for questions and storytelling, making it suitable for history buffs and curious travelers alike.

Key Points

• Private walking tour led by Lady Franchesca, Marco Polo’s supposed mistress.
• Duration of 1 hour 30 minutes with a personalized experience.
• Visit Korcula Old Town and Marco Polo House with tickets not included.
• Tour price is $210.68 per group, accommodating up to 15 people.
• Book in advance, typically about three weeks ahead.
• Start at Ulica Plokata 19, with pickup options available.

Korcula Old Town: The Fortified Heart of the Island

Korcula’s historic old town forms the centerpiece of this tour. Surrounded by defensive walls, the herringbone-patterned streets allow for easy navigation while protecting against the island’s strong winds. As the tour wanders through Korcula Town, Lady Franchesca highlights its architectural features and shares stories from its history.

You’ll appreciate how the walls and layout reflect the town’s strategic importance over centuries. The admission is free, making this a great opportunity to explore at your own pace after hearing about its significance. The old town’s picturesque streets and historic ambiance set the perfect backdrop for storytelling about Marco Polo’s origins.

Marco Polo House: The Legendary Explorer’s Birthplace

The tour includes a stop at the Marco Polo House, where the explorer was born in 1254. Here, Lady Franchesca discusses Marco Polo’s incredible voyages and his role as an advisor to the Mongolian emperor. Although entrance tickets are not included, this site remains a highlight for those interested in Polo’s early life.

The storytelling at this location brings to life Polo’s journeys, revealing aspects of his personality and the impact of his travels. Visitors can imagine the grand scale of his explorations and appreciate Korcula’s connection to this legendary figure.

The Personal Touch of Lady Franchesca as Your Guide

The guiding figure, Lady Franchesca, brings a blend of humor and knowledge to the tour. She maintains the character of Marco Polo’s mistress, making the storytelling both engaging and authentic. Her ability to weave historical facts with amusing anecdotes has earned praise in reviews, with many describing her as wonderful and expertly guiding the group.

Her storytelling style keeps the tour lively, and her personalized approach allows for questions and interaction. The professional guidance ensures that every member of the group gains a deeper understanding of both Korcula’s history and Marco Polo’s personal story.

Convenience and Flexibility in Tour Times

This tour offers several departure times, making it easy to fit into various schedules. The mobile ticket and pickup options simplify logistics, while the private group setting ensures an exclusive experience. The tour ends back at the starting point, so transportation logistics are straightforward.

Booking in advance ensures availability, especially during peak travel times. For most travelers, this tour provides a concise, yet immersive, window into Korcula’s past with the added charm of Lady Franchesca’s storytelling.

What’s Not Included: Entrance Fees and Beverages

While the guidance and storytelling are included, admission to Marco Polo House is paid separately, and beverages are not covered in the tour price. Visitors should plan to purchase their own drinks if desired. The free cancellation policy offers flexibility, allowing you to cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time for a full refund.

Reviews Reflect a Delightful Experience

Although only two reviews are documented, both are highly positive. Reviewers commend Lady Franchesca’s storytelling skills, her humor, and her ability to stay in character as Marco Polo’s mistress. They describe the tour as expertly guided and informative, noting her humorous approach as a highlight.

This consistent praise suggests that the personalized guidance and engaging storytelling are key strengths that set this tour apart from typical historical walks.

Logistics and Accessibility

The meeting point at Ulica Plokata 19 is accessible via public transportation, and service animals are allowed. The tour is designed to be most suitable for most travelers, with an easy walking pace suitable for a wide audience. The short duration makes it manageable even for those with limited mobility.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private, personalized tour best suits visitors who appreciate storytelling and historical context, especially those interested in Marco Polo and Korcula’s connection to him. Its intimate setting is perfect for curious travelers who want a more detailed narrative and a conversational atmosphere. Families, history enthusiasts, and fans of storytelling will find this experience particularly engaging.

The Sum Up: An Engaging and Personalized Korcula Experience

The Walking Tour in Korcula with Lady Franchesca offers a unique perspective on the island’s history, blending personalized storytelling with visits to Korcula Old Town and Marco Polo’s birthplace. The $210.68 price allows a small group to enjoy an exclusive guide who keeps stories lively and authentic.

While admission tickets to the Marco Polo House are separate, the tour’s focus on storytelling, history, and character makes it a memorable experience, especially for those interested in Marco Polo’s life and legacy. The positive reviews confirm that Lady Franchesca’s guidance is both knowledgeable and humorous, making this a recommended choice for travelers seeking a personalized historical walk.

If you value a private tour with a charismatic guide and want to explore Korcula’s historic sites in a relaxed, engaging manner, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable experience tailored to your schedule and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour private or shared?
This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, ensuring a personal experience.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is included in the tour price?
The professional guidance of Lady Franchesca is included. The admission to Marco Polo House and beverages are not included.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Ulica Plokata 19 in Korcula Town.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is there a minimum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 15 people, making it a cozy, personalized experience.

Is transportation provided?
No, but pickup is offered, and the meeting point is accessible via public transportation.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and curiosity about Korcula’s history and Marco Polo.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, making it suitable for families with children who enjoy storytelling.

Can I choose a specific tour time?
Yes, several tour times are available, allowing flexibility to fit your schedule.