Split & Trogir: Tour to Dubrovnik & Ston with Oyster Tasting

Travelers looking for a taste of Croatia’s coastal charm, history, and delicious seafood will find this full-day tour quite appealing. Starting from either Split or Trogir, it offers a chance to explore three distinctive highlights: the ancient salt works in Ston, the seafood-rich village of Mali Ston, and the iconic Old Town of Dubrovnik.

What we especially like about this tour is its blend of cultural insight and tasty experiences — the guided visit to the saltworks gives a real sense of medieval industry, while the oyster tasting is a delightful treat. Plus, the guided walk through Dubrovnik’s historic walls and streets makes history come alive. One consideration is the sightseeing pace; it’s a full day, so comfortable shoes and a good breakfast are advisable. This tour suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, scenic drives, and culinary adventures, especially those eager to sample local shellfish and wine.

Key Points

• Cultural depth: Visit the ancient saltworks in Ston, a fascinating medieval site.
• Gourmet experience: Sample six fresh oysters paired with a glass of Croatian wine.
• Historical insight: Guided tour of Dubrovnik’s iconic Old Town, including its ramparts and historic landmarks.
• Scenic drive: Enjoy approximately 2 hours of picturesque coastal views between stops.
• Value for money: All entrance fees, tastings, and guided commentary included.
• Practicality: Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles, with free cancellation up to 24 hours ahead.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ston Saltworks and Mali Ston

The day kicks off with a scenic drive from Trogir or Split, giving you a moment to savor the views of the Dalmatian coastline. After about two hours, you arrive at Ston, a village famed for its historical saltworks and second-longest city walls in the world. The saltworks, dating back to the era of the Republic of Dubrovnik, are a must-see. We loved the way the guide explained the complex salt production process from the Middle Ages, making it more than just a photo opportunity but a living monument to medieval industry.

The visit to the saltworks is especially valuable for history buffs and curious travelers alike. The site beautifully illustrates how salt was once a precious commodity, essential for preservation and trade. It’s a chance to stand where monks and merchants worked centuries ago, marveling at the engineering that kept the salt production going for generations.

After exploring the saltworks, you’ll head to Mali Ston, known for its shellfish cultivation. Here, oysters and mussels are farmed in waters that are said to be some of the cleanest and most flavorful in the world. Sampling six oysters with a glass of local wine is a highlight, particularly appreciated by seafood lovers. As one reviewer noted, “The oysters were fresh and served with a perfect glass of Croatian white wine.” This tasting isn’t just a snack; it’s an immersion into the region’s culinary tradition.

Dubrovnik’s Old Town: A Guided Walk Through History

From Mali Ston, the journey continues to Dubrovnik, the city that often earns its nickname as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” The guided tour begins at the medieval city walls, which you’ll walk along while hearing about their strategic importance. You’ll see the impressive city gates, and then wander into the labyrinth of narrow streets lined with charming stone buildings.

We appreciated the guide’s insightful commentary about Dubrovnik’s Renaissance architecture, including visits to Sponza Palace and the 11th-century Town Hall. The marble-paved squares, porticoes, and loggias create a fairy-tale setting that feels timeless. The tour offers a good overview of the city’s history and architecture, but also leaves free time for your personal explorations.

Many travelers have remarked on the authentic atmosphere of the Old Town, where nearly everything is pedestrianized, making it perfect for wandering at your own pace. You might enjoy grabbing a coffee or simply soaking in the medieval ambiance.

Practical Details and Value

The tour is priced at $294 per person, which covers a lot of ground for a day trip. The included entry tickets to the saltworks, the oyster tasting with wine, and the guided tour in Dubrovnik make it a good value, especially when you consider the cost of individual attractions and meals. The air-conditioned transport ensures comfort during the approximately 2-hour scenic drive, which is crucial given the full day on your feet.

While the tour emphasizes cultural and culinary highlights, it’s worth noting that not suitable for wheelchair users. Also, travelers are encouraged to bring comfortable shoes and a camera, as there will be ample photo opportunities both at the saltworks and in Dubrovnik.

The flexible booking policy — with free cancellation up to 24 hours before — adds peace of mind, particularly for travelers with uncertain plans.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Reviews highlight the quality of the oyster tasting as a standout feature, with one traveler praising the delicious shellfish paired with wine. Many appreciated the well-organized, informative guided walk in Dubrovnik, describing it as “a perfect introduction to the city’s history” and noting the “amazing views from the city walls.” A few mentioned the tight schedule, but most felt the day’s pace was manageable and rewarding.

One traveler noted, “The saltworks was unexpectedly interesting — a medieval industry I never knew about,” while another shared, “The guided tour made Dubrovnik’s history come alive, and the oysters were divine.” The overall sentiment is that this tour offers a unique blend of culture, history, and gastronomy in a day.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Dalmatia’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips. It’s best suited for those with a curiosity about history and industry, coupled with a love of fresh seafood and scenic coastal landscapes. The inclusion of guided commentary and tastings makes it a good choice for first-time visitors to the region.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about local traditions, sampling regional flavors, and walking through historic streets, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and palate alike. However, if you prefer a slower pace or are sensitive to busy schedules, you might find the full-day pace a bit brisk.

In short, for a well-rounded day that combines culture, history, and culinary delights, this tour offers solid value and authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is transportation provided during the tour? Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transfer throughout the day, making travel between locations comfortable and hassle-free.

What is included in the price? The price covers entry tickets to the saltworks, the oyster tasting with 6 oysters, a glass of wine, a guided tour in Dubrovnik, and insurance.

How long is the drive between sites? The drive between Split or Trogir and Ston, and then to Dubrovnik, lasts around 2 hours in total, offering scenic coastal views.

Is there free time after the guided tour in Dubrovnik? Yes, travelers have leisure time to explore on their own or revisit favorite spots within the Old Town after the guided portion.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes are essential for walking, and a camera will help you capture the stunning scenes and historic sites.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues? It’s generally not suitable for wheelchairs, and children should be comfortable with a full day of walking.

This tour offers an engaging blend of Croatian cultural heritage, scenic coastal drives, and tasty local flavors. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it promises a memorable day filled with authentic experiences and picturesque sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: