Ston Oysters & Wine Tasting Tour from Dubrovnik

Discover the Ston Oysters & Wine Tasting Tour from Dubrovnik

This full-day tour offers a laid-back yet rich exploration of Ston, Croatia, for just $221.80 per person. The tour spans 6 to 7 hours and includes hotel or port pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient way to escape the busy Dubrovnik streets and dive into the slower pace of this historic town. From exploring mussel and oyster farms to strolling along medieval walls, every moment is crafted to highlight the area’s specialties, with all entrance fees and taxes included.

The standout feature is the combination of food, wine, and local culture. You’ll enjoy a boat tour of Mali Ston Bay, sampling fresh oysters and mussels with homemade Croatian wine. The experience continues with sightseeing of Ston Old Town, visits to salt flats, and a wine tasting at a local Vinarija Urlin. What truly sets this tour apart is the personalized approach, with a private vehicle and an expert guide ensuring an intimate and informative adventure.

While the price might seem on the higher side, the comprehensive itinerary and high-quality experiences deliver significant value, especially given the small group size and private transportation.

Key Points

• All-inclusive day trip from Dubrovnik with hotel/port pickup
• Visit Ston’s historic Old Town, salt flats, and Game of Thrones filming sites
• Boat tour of Mali Ston Bay with oyster and mussel tasting
• Enjoy local wine tasting at Vinarija Urlin
• Includes a delicious lunch of **fresh mussels, oysters, and Croatian wine
• Private vehicle with a guide ensures a personalized experience

From Dubrovnik to the Historic Town of Ston

This tour departs directly from Dubrovnik, with pickup from your hotel or cruise port. The modern, air-conditioned van comfortably fits up to 8 travelers, ensuring a relaxed journey. The route is designed to maximize sightseeing and tasting opportunities while maintaining a friendly pace suitable for most travelers. The private nature of the tour guarantees a flexible schedule, allowing for a more tailored experience.

Exploring Mali Ston Bay and Oyster Farm

The boat tour at Mali Ston Bay stands out as a highlight. You board a boat for about 1 hour 30 minutes to visit oyster farms, where fresh oysters are harvested. The cost for this experience is payable cash directly to the farmer—€45 per person for groups of 4 or more, or €180 total for smaller groups. During the boat ride, you’re served 5 oysters per person, along with a portion of mussels prepared “Buzara” style and homemade Croatian wine. This adds a delicious, authentic touch to your day.

Walking Tour of Ston Old Town and Medieval Walls

Following the boat ride, the tour continues with a walk through Ston Old Town, a medieval settlement known for its impressive city walls and salt pans. The entrance fee for the walk on the walls is €10 per person. The one-hour walk provides ample opportunity to admire the fortifications, and learn about the historic salt production methods still visible at the salt flats.

Salt Flats and Traditional Salt Production

The salt flats are a key feature of Ston, where traditional salt production techniques are demonstrated. Visitors can see salt being harvested in the same way as centuries ago, offering insight into local livelihood practices. While the entrance fee is not included in the tour price, the salt flats are an essential stop for understanding the area’s economic history.

Wine Tasting at Vinarija Urlin

Next, the tour visits Vinarija Urlin, a respected local winery. Here, guests enjoy a wine tasting session lasting about one hour. You sample three glasses of Croatian wine, with costs of €20 per person. The guide helps explain the different wines, which pair beautifully with the other local foods experienced throughout the day.

Visiting Trsteno Arboretum and Game of Thrones Filming Locations

The visit to Trsteno Arboretum offers a peaceful walk through a botanical garden that has served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. You spend about an hour exploring this lush garden, where you can appreciate the diverse plant life and scenic vistas. The entrance fee of €10 per person is not included but is well worth seeing for fans of the series and nature lovers alike.

Practical Details and Additional Inclusions

The entire experience is led by an English-speaking driver/guide, with additional languages available upon request. The private transport ensures a comfortable and flexible journey, with bottled water provided. The tour includes all fees and taxes, so there are no hidden costs.

Lunch of fresh oysters, mussels, and wine is included during the boat tour, but alcoholic beverages at the winery are extra. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with children allowed if accompanied by an adult. The service animals are also permitted.

The Strengths and Limitations of this Tour

A key strength of this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, combining culinary delights, history, and nature in one day. The private vehicle and expert guide make the experience intimate and adaptable. The high praise for the wine tasting emphasizes the quality and authenticity of the included drinks.

However, the cost may be a consideration for some, especially since entrance fees and additional beverages are not included in the base price. Also, the boat tour cost is payable in cash, which travelers should plan for ahead.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Ston oysters and wine tour is ideal for those interested in Croatian seafood, local wines, and historic sites. It suits travelers who appreciate personalized experiences and want to explore beyond Dubrovnik’s walls. If gastronomy and history are priorities, this tour offers a balanced mix of both, with the added bonus of beautiful scenery.

Final Thoughts on the Ston Oysters & Wine Tasting Tour

This tour delivers a well-rounded experience of Ston’s culinary, historic, and natural highlights. The private transportation and small-group setting add comfort and intimacy, making it perfect for those seeking an authentic taste of Croatia. While it requires some cash payments for specific activities, the all-inclusive nature and high-quality experiences justify the price point.

This is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to explore Ston in depth, enjoy fresh seafood and local wine, and learn about the region’s salt production history. It offers a personalized, engaging day with plenty of opportunities to relax and savor Croatia’s flavors and scenery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate if accompanied by an adult.

What is included in the tour price?
The transportation, guide, walking tour, bottled water, and all fees and taxes are included.

Are entrance fees to sites included?
The salt flats and Trsteno Arboretum have entrance fees of €10 each that are not included in the tour price.

How is the boat tour paid for?
The cost of the boat tour, including oysters, mussels, and wine, is payable cash directly to the farmer.

Can I request additional languages?
Yes, additional languages are available upon request for the driver/guide.

What is the tour duration?
The full-day experience lasts about 6 to 7 hours.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch of oysters, mussels, and local wine is included during the boat tour.

How many people typically join this tour?
The tour is private for your group, with a maximum of 8 travelers in the vehicle.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is recommended, along with sun protection.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.