From Dubrovnik: Island of Korula with wine tasting

Exploring the Dalmatian Coast: A Day Trip to Korula with Wine Tasting from Dubrovnik

If you’re looking for a way to break out of Dubrovnik’s famous walls and see some of Croatia’s lesser-known treasures, this full-day tour to Korula offers a compelling mix of history, scenery, and flavors. It’s a solid choice if you want to enjoy some authentic local experiences without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’re intrigued by the way this tour combines a visit to Ston’s medieval walls, the scenic ferry ride, and the island’s charming old town, topped off with a wine tasting at a family-run vineyard.

Two things we love about this trip are the chance to explore Ston’s impressive 5-kilometer wall — a less crowded alternative to the more tourist-heavy historical sites — and the opportunity to taste Croatian wines and oysters in their native setting. The tour’s well-organized itinerary and knowledgeable guides seem to make the experience both enjoyable and informative. On the flip side, a potential drawback is that it’s a long day, around 11 hours, which might feel tiring for some travelers. Still, this tour suits those who love a mix of culture, scenery, and local flavors, especially if you’re eager to discover Croatia beyond Dubrovnik’s city limits.

Key Points

• Diverse experiences: Visit historic Ston, the island of Korula, and a local winery—all in one day.
• Excellent guides: Tour guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to enhance the experience.
• Scenic transportation: Enjoy a ferry ride and drive across the beautiful Peljeac peninsula.
• Authentic flavor: Sample high-quality wines and fresh seafood, including oysters.
• Flexible timing: The tour includes plenty of free time to explore each stop at your own pace.
• Value for money: At around $90 per person, it offers a comprehensive day with cultural, scenic, and tasting highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Pickup Logistics

The tour begins with convenient pickup options from multiple Dubrovnik hotels and accommodations, including the Hotel Excelsior, Valamar Lacroma, Hilton Imperial, and others. Starting early, usually around 8 or 9 am, the day is designed for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Drive Across Peljeac Peninsula

Your journey kicks off with a scenic drive across the Peljeac peninsula, renowned for its vineyards and stunning coastlines. We loved the way this stretch offers panoramic views of the Adriatic and rolling hills dotted with wineries. This part of the trip isn’t just transportation; it’s a visual introduction to the region’s rich wine-making tradition.

Exploring Ston’s Fortifications and Salt Ponds

Next, you’ll stop in Ston, a town famous for its massive 5-kilometer wall and traditional salt production. The wall, built to defend the salt pans, rivals the Great Wall of China in length — though, of course, on a smaller scale. You’ll have about 45 minutes for a quick look around and some free time. Many travelers find Ston’s walls and salt ponds fascinating, especially as they’re still used today in traditional salt harvesting.

One review highlights this part of the tour: “The walls at Ston and the old town at Korcula were spectacular!” While this stop is brief, it offers a chance to snap some photos and soak in the history of a less-visited Croatian town.

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Ferry Ride to Korula

From Ston, your group boards a ferry from Orebi, which takes roughly 1.5 hours to reach Korula. This crossing is a highlight for many, as it offers fantastic views of the coast and the islands. Genuine travelers appreciate how the ferry adds a touch of adventure and relaxation to the day, giving you a moment to breathe and enjoy the sea breeze.

Exploring Korula

Once on the island, a guided tour of Korula’s picturesque old town unfolds. The town’s narrow streets, historic architecture, and waterfront charm provide ample photo opportunities. You’re given a few hours—about 3 hours—to wander freely or relax in a local café.

The highlight, according to reviews, is visiting the birthplace of Marco Polo. The story goes that he set out at 17 on a journey to China, transforming the way Europeans saw the East. While you might find the site itself more modest than grand, it’s a meaningful stop for history buffs eager to connect with the legend.

Authentic Local Flavors at the Vineyard

In the late afternoon, you’ll visit the Bartulovic family winery in Prizdrina. Here, guided by the owners, you’ll taste some of the best local wines. Many reviewers have praised the high quality of the wines — a perfect way to cap a day of sightseeing. The winery is praised for its welcoming atmosphere, making the tasting experience feel like visiting friends rather than a tourist trap.

Return Journey and Final Stops

After the wine tasting, the group boards the bus for the return trip to Dubrovnik, with a stop in Cavtat or nearby for a breath of fresh sea air before arriving back in the city. The day wraps up with drop-offs at your hotel or nearby accommodations, making it easy to relax after a full day.

What We Think About the Value

At $90 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the price. It combines transportation, guided tours, a ferry ride, and wine tasting—all essentials for an immersive experience. While the day is long, the variety of sights and tastes makes it worthwhile. Plus, many reviews praise the guides for their friendly, informative approach, adding a personal touch that elevates the tour beyond just ticking boxes.

One reviewer said, “Everything ran smoothly, and the wines were high quality.” Another appreciated the informal, welcoming atmosphere at the winery, which makes tasting wines in a family setting special. The included ferry ride and guided tour ensure you see the highlights without the stress of planning each step.

Considerations

The tour is quite comprehensive, meaning it can feel busy and long. If you’re not a fan of lengthy days or travel, this might be a challenge. It’s also not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or people with mobility issues, given the walking, ferry, and vehicle transfers involved. Still, for active travelers seeking a taste of Croatia’s diverse attractions, it hits the mark.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you want an authentic slice of Dalmatia and enjoy a mix of outdoor scenery, history, and local cuisine. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided insights, quality wine, and a relaxed pace that still covers a lot of ground. If you enjoy scenic ferry rides, exploring charming towns, and learning about Croatian culture in a friendly setting, this tour should satisfy your curiosity.

Those looking for a quick, superficial overview might find the day too packed, but for curious visitors eager to see beyond Dubrovnik’s walls, this is a well-structured, enjoyable choice. It balances sightseeing, cultural discovery, and flavor — offering a memorable day for a reasonable price.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from multiple hotels and accommodations in Dubrovnik, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the ferry ride to Korula?
The ferry from Orebi to Korula takes about 1.5 hours, providing a scenic and relaxing crossing.

What is the approximate duration of the tour?
The entire day lasts around 11 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time at each stop.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera are recommended. Remember, pets, smoking, and other restrictions apply.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and not suitable for people with back problems or mobility issues due to walking and ferry segments.

Are meals included?
No, additional meals and beverages are not included, but there are plenty of opportunities to buy local food and drinks during the stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What language is the tour guide speaking?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides praised for their knowledgeable and friendly approach.

In essence, this Korula and Ston day trip from Dubrovnik offers a balanced taste of history, scenery, and Croatian hospitality. It’s perfect for those wanting a guided, hassle-free experience that combines cultural highlights with authentic local flavors, all within a well-organized 11-hour itinerary. Whether you’re a history lover, wine enthusiast, or scenic admirer, this tour promises a rewarding adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: