Traveling through Croatia’s Dalmatian coast offers a chance to encounter historic towns, stunning landscapes, and exceptional wines—sometimes all in one day. The private day trip from Dubrovnik to Ston, Korcula, and Peljeac is designed to give you a taste of these highlights with the comfort and flexibility that a private tour provides. While it’s a long day packed with sightseeing, it’s ideal for those who want an immersive experience without the hassle of planning each detail.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the way it balances guided insights with free time—so you can explore at your own pace. The boat ride to Korcula is a standout, offering scenic views and a sense of adventure. Plus, the visit to a family-owned winery helps you understand Croatia’s wine-making traditions firsthand. On the flip side, the full schedule might feel rushed if you prefer a more relaxed, unstructured day. Still, it suits travelers eager to cover a lot of ground comfortably.

This experience appeals most to those who enjoy history, scenic drives, and wine tasting, and who don’t mind a busy day of sightseeing. If you’re traveling with a curious spirit, love exploring small towns, and want a balanced mix of culture and leisure, this trip could be just what you’re after.

Key Points

Comfortable Transportation: Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a driver-guide ensuring smooth transitions.
Flexibility & Independence: Enjoy exploring each stop on your own, with the benefit of private arrangements.
Scenic Boat Ride: A 20-minute ferry to Korcula offers lovely views and a change of pace from land travel.
Wine Tasting: Visit a renowned Peljeac winery, tasting a selection of Croatian wines and learning about regional winemaking.
Rich Town Visits: Walk through historic Ston and Korcula, discovering their unique architectures and stories.
Cultural Insights: Your guide shares fascinating details about salt production, oysters, and local history, enriching your experience.

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Starting the Day: From Dubrovnik to Peljeac

Our journey kicks off early in Dubrovnik, with pickup arranged at your accommodations. The mode of transport varies—most likely a comfortable car or van—depending on the group size. The drive takes you through the Peljesac peninsula, famous for its wine and rugged coastline.

Your driver-guide is key here: they’re not just a chauffeur but a treasure trove of local stories and historical tidbits. We loved how they explained Peljeac’s history of winemaking, setting the stage for what’s to come at the winery.

As you cruise along, the scenery is a feast for the eyes—rolling hills, distant islands, fishing villages, and the occasional glimpse of the sea. The air-conditioning keeps things comfortable, especially on warm days, making the long drive more pleasant.

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Ston: The Salt Town with a Long Wall

The first stop is the small yet historically significant town of Mali Ston. Here, you get a brief chance to stretch your legs and soak in the atmosphere. Your licensed guide shares stories about the salt industry and oyster farming that has long been part of Ston’s identity. The highlight is the remarkable 5.5 km-long wall that spans from one side of the bay to the other—the second-longest preserved wall in the world.

You may also visit the Toljevac Fortress, Ston salt pans, and the Great Kastel Fort, which give you a tangible sense of the town’s strategic importance and its salt production legacy. Ston’s walls and salt pans are visually striking, especially if you’re a history buff or enjoy seeing how local industries shaped a town.

The optional late-morning coffee break allows for a quick rest before moving on. If you’re a foodie, you might find the oysters farmed locally quite appealing—though the tour doesn’t include oyster tasting, it’s a detail worth noting if you want to dig deeper later.

Exploring Ston’s Fortifications and Town Center

Walking through Gothic town architecture and the Saint Blaise church, you’ll see how history has left its mark on the streets. The walls of Ston aren’t just a tourist attraction—they’re a symbol of resilience and ingenuity, and you’ll understand why they’re considered the second-longest of their kind in the world.

The atmosphere here is relaxed, but the tour’s schedule keeps you moving. You’ll have a brief window to explore or grab a coffee before heading back to the vehicle for the next leg of your journey.

The Ferry to Korcula: Scenic and Relaxing

Next, it’s time for a 20-minute ferry ride across the bay to Korcula. This part of the tour is often a favorite, thanks to the beautiful views of the coastline, islands, and seafaring villages. You’ll spot landmarks like the Our Lady of the Angels church and monastery along the way.

The boat ride is smooth, and it offers a refreshing change from land travel. Plus, it’s a chance to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and snap some photos of the scenery. Many reviews mention how this ferry segment adds a touch of adventure and makes the day feel more dynamic.

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Korcula’s Old Town: Marco Polo’s Birthplace

Once on Korcula, the focus shifts to exploring its historic core. Your private walking tour takes you through narrow 15th-century streets with Venetian-style architecture. The highlight is visiting Marco Polo’s birthplace, where your guide shares stories about the legendary explorer and his connection to the island.

Other notable sights include the Cathedral of San Marco with its impressive bell tower and the Baroque South Gate, through which you enter the old city. The town’s layout feels like stepping back in time, with cobblestones beneath your feet and centuries-old buildings surrounding you.

The guide’s insights make the stories come alive, and many visitors appreciate the depth of local knowledge. After walking through the town, you’ll have some free time to relax, explore independently, or enjoy a casual lunch.

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Lunch & Leisure Time

You’re encouraged to enjoy some local cuisine—many opt for a quick lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling Croatian dishes like hand-rolled pasta from Zrnovo paired with a glass of local white wine, such as Poip. While the tour doesn’t include lunch, this break allows you to savor authentic flavors and decide what suits your taste.

Visiting a Peljeac Family Winery

The afternoon is dedicated to wine tasting at a renowned Peljeac winery. This family-owned hotel is celebrated locally and offers a chance to try several wines and liqueurs—typically about five different beverages. This part of the tour is both educational and indulgent, as you learn about local winemaking traditions from your guide and enjoy tasting some of the best Croatian wines.

The cellar tour adds a layer of authenticity, and many visitors comment on the warm hospitality and the quality of the wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just curious, this stop provides a genuine taste of local craftsmanship.

Scenic Drive & Return to Dubrovnik

After the winery visit, the journey continues through the Dingac wine-growing zone, with a scenic drive through the Dingac tunnel. There’s a photo stop in this renowned vineyard region, offering impressive views of Mljet and Lastovo islands along with fishing villages like Trstenik and Zuljana.

The return to Dubrovnik is typically smooth, with your driver-guide sharing final stories and answering questions. Depending on traffic and timing, you’ll arrive back at your accommodation in the early evening, tired but filled with new impressions.

Overall Value & Who It’s Best For

At $341 per person, this private tour offers a comprehensive experience—covering a lot of ground, with personalized attention, and the chance to explore at your own pace. Including transport, boat tickets, guided tours, and wine tasting, the cost reflects a good value for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the stress of planning.

The tour is particularly suited for travelers eager to see multiple sights, enjoy good food and wine, and learn about local history in an intimate setting. It’s perfect for those who appreciate cultural stories, scenic views, and a relaxed yet structured day. Keep in mind that it is a long day, so if you’re not a fan of busy itineraries, this might feel a bit rushed.

Ready to Book?

From Dubrovnik: Private Day Trip to Ston & Korula & wine

FAQ

Is transportation comfortable? Yes, the tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, and the driver-guide ensures a smooth ride throughout the day.

Do I need to pay extra for food? Yes, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll need to cover your meals and any additional beverages.

Is the boat ride included? Absolutely. The ferry tickets from Orebic to Korcula and back are part of the package.

Can I explore Ston and Korcula on my own? Yes, the tour emphasizes free time for exploration, so you can wander, take photos, or have a casual lunch.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it can suit families with older children who enjoy history and scenic outings, but keep in mind the full day may be tiring for very young kids.

How long does the entire tour last? It’s a full-day experience, typically returning to Dubrovnik in the early evening.

What’s the best time of year for this tour? The tour runs year-round, but summer months offer warmer weather and lively scenery, while spring and fall can be more temperate and less crowded.

Are there any optional activities? The guide might share suggestions like oysters or local specialties, but specific optional activities are not included.

How many people usually join this tour? The tour is private, so you are traveling with your own group, which ensures personalized attention.

Is there flexibility in the schedule? Since it’s a private tour, there’s some flexibility, but it’s best to follow the planned itinerary to make the most of the day.

This private Dubrovnik day trip is a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-rounded experience of Dalmatia’s history, scenery, and wine. The combination of guided storytelling, scenic views, and free exploration makes for an engaging and memorable day—just be prepared for a full schedule!