Korcula, Ston, Wine Tasting and Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik that offers a well-rounded taste of Croatian culture, history, and scenery, this Korcula, Ston, wine tasting, and lunch tour might just be the perfect choice. It promises a blend of sightseeing, authentic local flavors, and a touch of relaxation—all curated in a way that keeps the experience genuine and enjoyable.

We love the way this tour combines a beautiful coastal cruise with guided walks through historic towns, and the chance to sip Croatian wines right at the source. The inclusion of fresh seafood and a walk along ancient city walls adds layers of authenticity. One thing to keep in mind is that the full-day schedule can be quite packed, so if you’re looking for a slow, leisurely afternoon, this might feel a bit brisk.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see a bit of everything—history, scenery, wine, and cuisine—without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. If you’re after a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path adventure or prefer to explore independently, you might want to consider other options. But for those craving a balanced day of discovery, this package hits many highlights.

Key Points

Authentic Croatian experience with guided visits and local dining
Beautiful coastal scenery and island views during the cruise
Expert-led wine tasting at the Matusko cellar
Historical insights at Ston’s impressive walls and salt production site
Fresh seafood lunch featuring oysters, mussels, and grilled fish
Convenient transportation with hotel pickup, ferry, and air-conditioned vehicle
Ideal for those who enjoy cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights
Flexible booking with pay later options and full cancellation
Limited group size for a more personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

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Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

The tour begins with a hotel or cruise port pickup, which sets a relaxed tone. You won’t need to worry about organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads—your guide takes care of the logistics in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. With free Wi-Fi onboard, you can even share your early impressions or check out some photos from the day.

The drive to Orebic takes about 2.5 hours, offering scenic views of Croatia’s lush coastal landscape and rugged mountains. This period allows time to settle in, chat with your guide, and get a primer on what’s ahead.

Korcula: Marco Polo’s Birthplace and Scenic Charm

Once you arrive in Orebic, the short ferry ride (about 15 minutes) whisks you across the water to Korcula Island. The ferry is a delightful part of the experience—crisp sea air, views of the coast, and a chance to see the island from the water.

Korcula is often called “Little Dubrovnik” due to its well-preserved medieval walls and charming old town. Your guided walk here will reveal narrow cobbled streets, quaint squares, and historical buildings. The guide’s commentary brings this small town’s stories to life, especially Marco Polo’s birthplace.

People who have taken the tour often mention how much they appreciated the guide’s knowledge and approachability—one reviewer highlights, “Micky our guide makes the experience fantastic, he explains everything very well and has a great education.” You’ll get a sense of local life and history, all while wandering at a relaxed pace.

Returning to Orebic and Continuing Along Peljesac

After exploring Korcula, the ferry returns you to Orebic, where you’ll hop back into the vehicle for the scenic drive along the Peljesac Peninsula. Known for its vintage vineyards and rugged coastline, Peljesac offers stunning views of rocky cliffs and shimmering sea.

This stretch is worth savoring because the landscape acts as a brilliant backdrop for your next activity—wine tasting at the Matusko cellar. Here, you’ll see firsthand how Croatian wines, particularly the renowned Dingac, are produced. With three different wines sampled per person, this segment offers not just tasting but an educational peek into local winemaking traditions.

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The Authentic Village Lunch

One of the tour’s standout features is the lunch in a local village house. Unlike touristy eateries, this place offers a genuine Croatian meal—fresh oysters and mussels just from the sea, grilled fish or meat, and garden-fresh vegetables. The dessert and domestic wine complete the experience, providing a taste of Croatian hospitality.

Guests often comment on how this meal feels like a visit to a friend’s home, adding to the authenticity and charm. Plus, the seafront location with a sandy beach makes it a perfect spot to relax, swim, or simply soak in the scenery before heading to your final stop.

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Ston: A Fortress of History and Salt

Your last stop is the small, historic town of Ston, home to some of the most impressive fortifications in Croatia—walls that stretch nearly 2 kilometers and date back nearly 700 years. The guided walk around the town offers insights into its past as a key salt producer, with a salt production process that’s two thousand years old still visible today.

Visitors often mention how the walls and salt production site make Ston more than just a quaint town—it’s a living museum. The 30-minute break allows for wandering the cobblestone streets, shopping for local products, or simply admiring the views.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

Transportation and Group Size

Your day is mostly spent traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with free Wi-Fi for the journey. The group size is kept manageable, facilitating a more personal experience that’s often praised—for example, one reviewer called the guide “great education” and “fantastic.” The ferry rides, guided walks, and stops are all timed to ensure a smooth flow.

Cost and Value

At $553 for a group of one, this might seem steep, but it includes almost everything—transport, ferry tickets, wine tasting, and guided tours. The only extra is the lunch (about $50 per person), which is paid on the spot. When you consider the transportation, guided insights, and quality of food and drink, many find it good value for a full day of authentic experiences.

What to Bring

To enjoy your day comfortably, pack comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, a sun hat, and swimwear if you plan to swim. The tour is suitable for those over 18 due to the wine tasting, and children must be accompanied by adults. Infant seats are available if requested in advance, making it accessible for families.

Booking and Cancellation

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, and full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. This makes planning a bit easier in case your travel plans change unexpectedly.

Authenticity, Highlights, and Who Will Love This Tour

This tour is an excellent way to experience Croatia’s Dalmatian coast beyond Dubrovnik’s city walls. We loved the blend of history, nature, and gastronomy. The guided walks are enriched by knowledgeable guides who bring stories and context alive—especially appreciated based on reviews praising the “great education” they received.

The scenic cruise and the chance to sample top Croatian wines in a real cellar elevate the experience from typical sightseeing to a genuine culture. The seafood lunch, with fresh oysters and grilled fish, highlights Croatia’s culinary bounty. And the historic walls of Ston, along with the salt production process, provide a tangible link to the past.

For travelers with an appetite for authentic local experiences, this tour delivers in spades. It balances leisure with education, scenic beauty with cultural insight, and guided tours with free time to explore or relax.

Final Thoughts

This Korcula, Ston, wine tasting, and lunch tour offers a compelling snapshot of Dalmatian life—its history, its landscapes, and its flavors. The guided approach ensures you won’t miss key stories or hidden gems, and the combination of scenic drives, boat rides, and local dining makes for a well-rounded day.

It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of culture, history, and gastronomy, and who enjoy participating in small-group outings. If you’re after a leisurely, immersive day that showcases Croatia’s coastal charm, this tour hits the mark.

While it may not be perfect for those seeking a slow-paced or purely independent experience, its value lies in the curated, authentic touch and expert guidance. From stunning views to memorable tastes, it’s a day that’s likely to stick with you long after the boat has returned to Dubrovnik.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or cruise port, making it easy to start and end your day without hassle.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik to Orebic?
The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, providing scenic views along the way.

What’s the duration of the ferry ride?
The ferry from Orebic to Korcula and back lasts about 15 minutes each way.

What is included in the wine tasting?
You’ll taste three different wines per person at the Matusko cellar, where you also see the wine production process.

What kind of lunch is provided?
The lunch features oysters, mussels, grilled fish or meat, fresh vegetables, dessert, and local wine—payable on-site for around $50.

Can children join this tour?
Children must be accompanied by adults and are welcome, but the tour is only for those over 18 if they want to participate in wine tasting.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, swimwear if swimming, and perhaps a towel or beach gear.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the tour involves walking and some uneven surfaces, it’s best to check with the provider about specific accessibility needs.

How do I cancel my booking?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

This carefully curated tour offers a delightful way to explore the Dalmatian coast’s highlights, combining scenic beauty, history, and local flavors—all wrapped in a relaxed, engaging day.