Oysters and mussels tasting with wine in Ston and Peljeac

If you’re considering a day in Croatia that combines stunning scenery with delicious local flavors, this Oysters and Mussels Tasting Tour in Ston and Peljeac might just tick all the boxes. It promises a blend of fresh seafood, scenic coastal views, and stories behind local traditions—all within a well-curated five-hour experience. From what we’ve seen, it’s perfect for food lovers, wine enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a taste of authentic Croatian culture away from the crowds.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it offers genuine hands-on experiences—like watching oysters being opened right in front of you—and the chance to sample some of the best seafood and wines Croatia has to offer. Plus, the scenic drive along the coast, with a cozy stop in Ston, makes it feel relaxed and personalized. One potential downside? The tour’s duration is just enough to leave you wanting a little more, especially if you’re a foodie craving additional tastings or sightseeing. Still, it’s a great choice for those who want a focused, immersive taste of the region without overloading their day.

This experience seems especially suited to travelers who enjoy culinary adventures, want to learn about local traditions, or simply love scenic coastal settings. If you’re after a mix of nature, culture, and cuisine—and don’t mind a small group—this is a solid option.

Key Points

• Authentic seafood experience with freshly opened oysters and mussels directly from the sea.
• Knowledgeable local hosts share stories about family traditions and the oyster and mussel farming process.
• Beautiful coastal scenery including the impressive Walls of Ston, the second-longest fortification system in Europe.
• Pairing with local wines from Peljeac, offering a genuine taste of Croatian wine-making.
• Relaxed itinerary with enough time for coffee, sightseeing, and enjoying the farm visits without feeling rushed.
• Small group setting (max 8 travelers) for a more intimate, personalized experience.

Starting with Convenience and Comfort
The tour begins at 10:00am with a pickup, making it straightforward to start your day without the hassle of figuring out transportation. Since most travelers can participate, it’s designed to be accessible for a wide range of visitors, and a maximum of 8 travelers keeps the experience cozy and personal. We like that this setup allows for a relaxed pace and the opportunity to chat more with your guide or fellow travelers.

First Stop: Ston and its Historic Walls
The journey kicks off with a stop in Ston, famous for its incredible fortifications—second only to China’s Great Wall. You get about 45 minutes for a quick stroll, whether to grab a coffee or soak in the views of the ancient walls. Travelers have raved about this part, with one reviewer noting they got a “front seat view of the oyster farming stages,” which hints at how close and authentic this experience can be.

The Family Seashell Farm in Hodilje
Next, the adventure moves to Hodilje, where a local family runs a seashell farm. Here, you’ll see oysters and mussels being farmed and opened right before your eyes—an immersive moment that many reviewers found particularly memorable. One guest mentioned, “the owner was so happy to chat,” which makes the experience feel warm and genuine. You’ll taste freshly shucked oysters, which are said to be some of the best you’ll ever have, directly from the sea. Then, prepare your palate for the Buzara—a traditional Croatian mussel dish that locals swear by.

Wine Tasting at a Small Croatian Winery
No seafood tasting is complete without a good glass of local wine. The tour includes a visit to a small home winery, where you’ll hear about the wine-making process and taste wines from the Peljeac peninsula—famous for its grapes and handcrafted wines. Paired with ham, cheese, and salad, it’s an authentic and flavorful experience that many reviewers have enjoyed, describing the wines as “gorgeous” and the setting as “gorgeous with lovely wines and food.”

Drop-off and Flexibility
After the tasting, the guide will drop you back at your accommodation, making it easy to continue exploring or relax after a day of culinary delights. The timing and flow are designed to balance sightseeing, eating, and learning, ensuring you get a well-rounded experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Authentic, hands-on seafood tasting is arguably the highlight. Watching oysters being opened and tasting them fresh is something many travelers find special. One reviewer simply said, “we got a front seat view of oyster farming stages right up to eating freshly shuckled oysters from the sea,” which perfectly captures the intimate nature of this experience.

The scenic coastal setting and historic Ston walls add a layer of cultural richness. Seeing the fortifications and walking around a charming seaside town gives context to the region’s history and strategic importance. Though not a full sightseeing tour, this added touch makes the experience more meaningful.

The personal stories and family-run farm visits lend authenticity that larger, commercial tours can’t match. The hosts’ pride in their traditions and willingness to share their stories come through, making the experience feel more genuine.

The value for the price (around $156 per person) is noteworthy considering how much you get—seaside scenery, seafood, wine, and personal insights. The small group format enhances the experience, making it more interactive and tailored.

Duration and Pacing
At roughly five hours, it’s a comfortably timed tour that covers a lot without taking over your entire day. You’ll have enough time at each stop to enjoy, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. One reviewer pointed out they appreciated the “relaxed pace,” which is important if you prefer a less hurried experience.

Cost and Value
While not the cheapest activity, the price reflects the quality and authenticity. With freshly farmed seafood, local wine, and cultural insights, many find it a fair deal.

Weather Dependence
Since it’s an outdoor, seaside experience, weather can impact the tour. If the weather turns poor, a full refund or rescheduling is available, which provides some peace of mind.

Small Group Experience
Limited to 8 travelers, it offers a more intimate setting. If you enjoy personal interactions and a relaxed environment, this is a good fit.

Accessibility and Family Friendliness
While most travelers can participate, the tour is primarily geared toward adults interested in food, wine, and history. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, but older children who enjoy seafood or outdoor activities might find it engaging.

This experience is perfect for culinary travelers, wine lovers, and those interested in local traditions. It’s suitable for anyone who enjoys a relaxed pace, scenic views, and authentic tastes rather than rushed sightseeing. Foodies will love the chance to taste oysters and mussels straight from the farm, paired with Croatian wines. History buffs will appreciate the chance to see Ston’s impressive walls, while culture enthusiasts will enjoy hearing personal stories from local hosts.

If you’re after a genuine taste of Croatia’s seafood and wine, with a side of history and scenic beauty, this tour offers a memorable, well-rounded experience. The small group size, authentic farm visits, and fresh seafood make it stand out from more generic coastal excursions.

However, if you’re hoping for a longer sightseeing tour or a more leisurely exploration of the region, this might feel a little focused on just the food and stories. Still, for the price—roughly $156—you’re getting a lot of value: fresh seafood, local wines, and an intimate look at Croatian coastal life.

In the end, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to combine culinary delights with cultural insights without spending an entire day. Just a heads-up: good weather will enhance your experience, so keep an eye on the forecast.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately five hours, with plenty of time at each stop.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 travelers, providing a small-group feel with personalized attention.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Does the tour include transportation?
The pickup and drop-off are included, but details about specific transportation arrangements are not specified.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s primarily suited for adults interested in food and wine.

How much does the tour cost?
Approximately $155.86 per person, which includes seafood tastings, wine, and guiding.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled, you’ll be offered an alternate date or full refund.

Is it suitable for those who don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, non-drinkers can still enjoy the seafood and learn about local traditions, though wine tasting is part of the experience.

If you’re craving a taste of Croatia’s seafood, a taste of local wines, and a peek into historic coastal defenses—all in a cozy group—this tour is definitely worth considering. It balances delicious experiences with cultural insights and scenic views, making it a rewarding addition to your Croatian adventure.