Ston and Korcula Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik with Wine

This tour offers a full day of exploring some of Croatia’s most captivating spots, from the formidable walls of Ston, once considered the white gold of the region, to the enchanting streets of Korcula, famed as the home of Marco Polo. It’s a package designed for those wanting a taste of history, stunning scenery, and local flavors all in one go.

What makes this trip appealing are its scenic boat ride across the Peljeac Peninsula, the opportunity to walk around Korcula’s Old Town, and the included wine tasting that celebrates the region’s vineyards. On the flip side, some travelers have voiced concerns about timing and the overall pace, which can vary depending on the day’s circumstances. Still, it’s an experience that suits those with an interest in authentic Croatian towns, good wine, and a bit of adventure.

Overall, if you’re after a day that combines history, scenic views, and a relaxed taste of local life, this trip offers a decent value, especially when you consider the included transportation, guide, and wine tasting. Just keep in mind that some reviews highlight potential hiccups, so flexible expectations are advised.

Key Points

Includes transportation and guide for a seamless experience
Visit two historic towns: Ston with Europe’s longest walls, and Korcula, home of Marco Polo
Enjoy a scenic boat ride with views of the Peljeac peninsula and Korcula’s Old Town
Wine tasting on Peljeac peninsula offers local flavors in a beautiful setting
Flexible itinerary that allows free time for sightseeing, swimming, and lunch
Potential for timing issues or place closures, especially on holidays or off-season

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from This Tour

This day trip is designed as a well-rounded experience, blending history, scenery, and local tastes. It begins early, with hotel pickup, and takes you on a journey north of Dubrovnik, into the heart of Dalmatia. The day is structured but flexible, giving you time to enjoy each spot without feeling rushed.

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Visiting Ston: The White Gold of Dalmatia

Your first stop is Ston, famous for its massive 14th-century walls that stretch over 5.5 kilometers—these are the longest medieval walls in Europe, and they’ve earned the town a reputation for its formidable defenses and saltworks. The narrow, quiet streets and well-preserved old houses give a sense of stepping back in time.

What you’ll love: The opportunity to walk along the walls, take photos of the panoramic views, and possibly visit the saltworks, which once made Ston a wealthy trading hub. The salt ponds are a fascinating glimpse into a traditional industry that earned salt the nickname “white gold.” The review from Delinda notes that the hour-long stop allowed for a quick taste of Ston’s charm, but also a reminder that many attractions might be closed on certain days or holidays, so plan accordingly.

The Boat Ride to Korcula

Around mid-morning, you’ll hop on a short boat ride from Orebi to Korcula Old Town. The 15-minute crossing offers lovely views of the Peljeac Peninsula, setting the stage for what’s to come. Once on Korcula, you’ll have several hours to wander its walled city, known for its Gothic-Renaissance architecture, the Cathedral of St. Marco, and lively streets.

What we loved: The relaxed pace of exploring without the rush. Korcula’s compact Old Town is perfect for wandering, with its cobbled streets arranged in a herringbone pattern that encourages exploration and offers many scenic spots for photos. Gerhardus highlights how much he enjoyed Korcula, describing it as “amazing,” with friendly guides making the visit memorable.

Lunch and Free Time in Korcula

You’ll have time for lunch at a recommended restaurant, where you might sample local delicacies like brodet (fish stew), paired with fresh seafood and local wines. The town is also renowned for its historic villas, olive groves, and vineyards, making it a feast for the eyes and palate.

Beware: Some reviews, such as Paola’s, suggest that the time spent in Korcula may feel a bit excessive, especially if the sights are not as exciting as expected. Others felt the guided tour portion was too brief or lacked storytelling—highlighting that a self-guided exploration could be more rewarding.

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Wine Tasting in Peljeac

The afternoon includes a visit to a local winery on the Peljeac peninsula, where you can sample regional wines. The wines are a highlight for many, with reviews praising the selection and the chance to purchase bottles directly from producers. The tasting is included in the tour price, providing good value for those interested in Croatian wines.

Authentic experience: The tasting allows you to appreciate local varietals and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. The relaxed atmosphere at the winery complements the day’s leisurely pace.

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The Practicalities: Timing, Transportation, and Group Size

The entire trip runs from approximately 07:30 to 18:00, with various stops and free time built in. Transportation is by mini-bus, with the guide providing commentary along the way. The tour’s structure, with included hotel pickup and drop-off for select hotels, ensures convenience.

Transport considerations: Depending on the number of participants, the vehicle used may vary—ranging from a car to a coach. This flexibility is helpful in off-peak seasons or smaller groups.

Group size and pace: The reviews suggest that some groups can feel hurried, especially if attractions are closed or if the guide’s explanations are limited. Delinda notes that the bus ride can be 4-5 hours, so be prepared for a fair amount of sitting and traveling.

Costs and Value

At $88 per person, this tour offers a reasonable price for the included transportation, guide, boat ride, and wine tasting. However, only entrance fees to museums and specific sites are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to visit particular attractions.

Reviews’ Insights

The overall rating is 3.5 out of 5 from 8 reviews, with some travelers expressing satisfaction and others citing issues like guides not showing up or limited time at key sites. Catherine’s experience of a no-show guide was disappointing, highlighting the importance of choosing reputable operators. Conversely, Gerhardus and David found the tour “really lovely” and “awesome,” praising the scenery and guide friendliness.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is well-suited for travelers interested in history, scenic towns, and Croatian wines. It’s ideal if you enjoy a relaxed pace with some free time and are okay with a full day on the road. It’s perfect for those who want a taste of Korcula’s charm without dedicating multiple days or for anyone curious about Croatia’s coastal defenses and local viticulture.

However, if you prefer a more in-depth exploration or dislike long bus rides, you might find this tour somewhat rushed or limited. Also, if visiting certain sites during holidays or off-season, check whether attractions will be open.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Dubrovnik offers a well-rounded snapshot of Dalmatia’s coastal culture, combining Ston’s impressive walls, Korcula’s lovely Old Town, and regional wines—all in one package. The inclusion of transport, a guide, boat ride, and wine tasting makes it a convenient choice for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

While some reviews highlight logistical hiccups or brief visits, many travelers appreciate the views, the friendly guides, and the opportunity to enjoy Croatia’s wine and historic towns without planning every detail themselves.

If you’re eager to see a historic fortress town, enjoy a relaxed stroll through a charming medieval city, and sip some local wines, this tour delivers a good experience—just keep your expectations flexible, especially about timing and site openings.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup provided?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but only from selected hotels in Dubrovnik. Confirm your pickup location when booking.

How long is the total tour?
The tour runs from about 07:30 to 18:00, including all stops, free time, and transportation.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, guide, boat ride, and wine tasting are included. Entrance fees to museums and specific sites are not.

Can I visit the saltworks at Ston?
Yes, during the stop in Ston, you can visit the saltworks if you wish, though it depends on time availability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear if you want to swim, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for photos of the walls and scenic views.

Is the wine tasting worth it?
Most reviews agree that the wine tasting offers a good selection and a chance to purchase local wines directly from producers, adding value.

How much free time will I have in Korcula?
The schedule allows for several hours, which is enough to walk around, visit a restaurant, or relax at the beach.

What if attractions are closed?
Some reviews mention that attractions may be closed on holidays or off-season, potentially limiting what you see.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most adults, especially those interested in history and wine. Check with the operator for specific age considerations.

What if I don’t want to drink wine?
The wine tasting is included but optional; you can decline or skip it and still enjoy the scenic stops.

This excursion offers a taste of Dalmatia’s historic and scenic delights, balanced with comfort and convenience. It’s a good choice for those who want a broad overview of the region, with enough flexibility to make it a memorable day.