'I'm a travel expert - this place is the perfect alternative to overcrowded Dubrovnik'

is becoming increasingly popular with and some spots in the country are becoming unbearably . One of those places is . While the city is stunning and has everything from crystal-clear waters to historic ruins, visiting it often involves wading through an army of people.

With that in mind, for anyone looking for a quieter escape, a has come up with an alternative. That alternative is Korula, a small in the Adriatic Sea, which has been described as a peaceful retreat with , quiet and rich history, without the overwhelming crowds.

Travel expert Jiayi Wang, who runs the blog , told the Express: "Korula is more relaxed than overcrowded Dubrovnik and still full of things to do - vineyards, kayaking, quiet coves, and much easier on the budget outside peak season."

Located just off the Dalmatian coast, Korula lies around 112km (60 nautical miles) from Dubrovnik.

High-speed ferries run regularly in summer and take around two hours.

, with 27.4 tourists per local resident, according to a study by Holidu using Euromonitor International data.

Korula offers a very different experience. The island is home to historic villages, olive groves, vineyards, and peaceful coves.

The main town, Korula Town, is known for its medieval walls, narrow stone streets, and Venetian architecture.

There's no shortage of things to do. Visitors can explore the Old Town, climb the bell tower of St. Mark's Cathedral, and enjoy fresh seafood along the seafront promenade.

The island is also perfect for kayaking and hiking. Boat trips can take you to quiet nearby islets like Vrnik, or hidden beaches such as Pupnatska Luka, Vela Prina, and Proizd.

Food is another highlight. The island is known for its fresh seafood, including grilled fish, octopus salad, black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, and traditional meat dishes like peka - slow-cooked lamb or veal under a bell-shaped lid.

Visitors can also try local wines and olive oil from small family farms, with prices far lower than in Dubrovnik or Hvar.

There are plenty of hotels, guesthouses and restaurants on the island, many of which stay open year-round.

Transport between towns is easy, with buses and taxis running regularly.