Korcula, Ston, Wine Tasting and Lunch – Tour from Dubrovnik

If you’re considering a day trip from Dubrovnik that combines scenic views, local history, and some serious wine tasting, this Korcula, Ston, Wine Tasting, and Lunch tour might just be what you need. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a truly well-rounded experience, especially if you’re into discovering Croatian culture beyond Dubrovnik’s walls.

What immediately catches the eye are the personalized touches—the private nature of the tour means you’re not part of a big crowd, giving you more flexibility to linger at the sights that pique your interest. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning what could be a standard sightseeing day into something memorable. On the flip side, it’s a long day (about 10 to 11 hours), so it’s best suited for those comfortable with full days of exploration.

That said, there’s a bit of a trade-off with the lunch, which isn’t included in the price—so budget accordingly if you want to enjoy the local food without surprises. This experience hits the right notes for travelers craving a blend of history, culture, and good wine, especially if you’re traveling in a small group or with family who enjoy a relaxed pace.

Key Points

• Private tour allows more time at your favorite sights and a customized experience.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers Korcula old town, Ston walls, local wineries, and oyster farms.
• Beautiful ferry ride from Orebic to Korcula provides fantastic views and photo ops.
• Wine tasting at Matusko cellar offers a chance to sample three local wines.
• Lunch at Villa Wind features fresh seafood, oysters, and a glass of wine, giving you a taste of local flavors.
• Long but flexible day perfect for travelers who enjoy in-depth exploration and relaxed pacing.

What the Tour Looks Like in Detail

Convenient Pickup and Transportation

One of the best parts of this tour is that it offers hotel pickup and drop-off, so you don’t have to worry about navigating Dubrovnik’s busy streets or finding your way to a meeting point. The transportation is in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more bearable. The driver, also your guide, offers live commentary, sharing insights into the sights and local history along the way, which adds a personal touch.

The First Stop: Orebic and Ferry Ride

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel, followed by a scenic drive across the Peljesac Peninsula. This area is known for salt panning and oyster farming, giving a glimpse into traditional livelihoods that have shaped the local landscape. After a short drive, you’ll hop on a ferry from Orebic to Korcula Town—about 20 minutes of relaxing sailing. The views of the coast and island landscape are often praised, making this ferry ride a highlight for many.

Exploring Korcula Old Town

Once on Korcula, you’ll spend around two hours wandering Korcula’s charming streets and city walls. This is a chance to soak up the atmosphere of a town often compared to Dubrovnik but with its own laid-back vibe. Expect narrow lanes, historic buildings, and plenty of photo opportunities. The tour includes a guided walk, which helps you appreciate the significance of each corner, but you’re also free to explore at your own pace.

Wine Tasting at Matusko Winery

Next up is a visit to the Matusko cellar—a family-run hotel renowned for producing some of the best wines on the Peljesac Peninsula. You’ll get to taste three different wines, learning about the winemaking process directly from the experts. The tasting lasts about 45 minutes, and reviews highlight the warmth and knowledge of the guides here, which really enhances the experience. If you’re a wine lover, this stop is definitely a highlight.

Lunch at Villa Wind

The tour then moves to a traditional village house called Villa Wind for a substantial lunch. The meal includes mussels in Buzara style, three oysters, and a choice of grilled fish or meat, paired with local red or white wine. Desserts are included as well. This sit-down meal, lasting roughly 1.5 hours, gives you a chance to relax and enjoy authentic Croatian dishes. While the lunch isn’t included in the base price, it’s a worthwhile addition for those wanting to sample local flavors in a cozy setting.

Exploring Ston’s Medieval Walls

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Ston, a small town famous for its massive defensive walls—second only to the Great Wall of China in length. You’ll have around 45 minutes to walk along the walls and explore the medieval town’s sights. Reviews mention the walls as a major draw, offering fantastic views and a tangible sense of history. It’s a relaxed stop, but one that enriches your understanding of Croatia’s historical defenses.

Return to Dubrovnik

After Ston, you’ll head back towards Dubrovnik, with a brief stop for a photo or quick look around if time permits. The entire day wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel or chosen location, closing a full circle of Croatian coastal charm.

What Stands Out

From reviews, many travelers mention the driver and guide, Mihail, as making the experience special. His knowledge and friendly approach elevate the tour beyond just sightseeing. The flexibility of a private tour means you’re not rushed, and you can spend more time at the sights that you find particularly interesting.

The scenic ferry ride is often praised for the views it offers of the coastline and islands—perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. The wine tasting is appreciated not just for the wines themselves but also for the stories and explanations provided, giving a deeper appreciation for local wine-making traditions.

Considerations

While this tour offers a well-rounded experience, keep in mind that it’s a long day. If you’re not accustomed to full-day excursions, it might feel a bit tiring, especially when combined with walking and sightseeing. The lunch is not included in the price, so budget extra if you want to dine without concern. Also, since the tour is private, it’s designed for groups who like a flexible, personalized experience—if you prefer large group tours, this may seem too intimate.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate cultural exploration, scenic views, and local flavors. It’s ideal if you enjoy wine, history, and picturesque island villages. It also works well for those who want a relaxed pace—the private setup allows you to linger or skip some stops if you prefer. Families with older children or teens who enjoy walking and tasting experiences would find this engaging, but it may be less suited for very young kids due to the walking involved and the length of the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and stress-free to start your day.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, giving you a full day of exploring and relaxing.

What does the price include?
The cost covers transportation, a private guide, all ferry fares, wine tastings at Matusko cellar, and the guided walk in Korcula and Ston.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the standard package, but there’s an option to buy a meal at Villa Wind, which features local seafood and wine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by adults, and most travelers can participate, but note that the minimum drinking age is 18, and the full day may be tiring for younger kids.

What is the guide’s role?
The guide offers live commentary during transportation and organized walks at each site, sharing local insights and answering questions.

How scenic is the ferry ride?
Very. Travelers mention the views as a major highlight of the day, making it an Instagram-worthy part of the experience.

Are the wineries family-run?
Yes, the Matusko winery is a family operation known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality wines.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring towns and walls. Dress for weather, and bring sunscreen or a hat if it’s sunny.

This private tour from Dubrovnik offers a beautiful blend of history, culture, and wine, tailored for those who want an in-depth, relaxed day exploring some of Croatia’s most charming spots. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a scenic escape, this experience ticks many boxes—just be ready for a full day on the move.