Ston Gastro Tour From Dubrovnik

If you’re looking to combine history, gastronomy, and scenic beauty in one day, the Ston Gastro Tour from Dubrovnik offers a compelling way to do just that. Priced at around $179 per person, this 4 to 5-hour journey promises a taste of Croatian wine, fresh oysters straight from Ston Bay, and sightseeing in one of Croatia’s most historic towns. Organised by Ragusa Tours, the experience is designed for those who love good food, good wine, and a bit of adventure on the water.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on private tastings and personalized attention, making it feel less like a large group expedition and more like a day spent with friends discovering local gems. You’ll travel along the stunning Dalmatian coast, visit medieval walls, and enjoy a seafood dinner in Mali Ston—all while learning about Croatian traditions and cuisine.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour requires a minimum of four participants to run, and boat trips to the oyster farms are optional, with additional costs if only two people are present. Still, for lovers of wine, history, and fresh seafood, this experience offers a balanced mixture of culture and culinary delights that’s hard to beat for the price. It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a hands-on, immersive day outside of Dubrovnik’s bustling Old Town.

Key Points

• Authentic Croatian experiences: Private tastings of wine and oysters with local guides
• Historical highlights: Walk along Europe’s second-longest city walls in Ston
• Scenic boat cruise: Visit oyster and mussel farms on Ston Bay
• Culinary focus: Enjoy regional specialties including lunch and dinner
• Flexible options: Pickup from hotels and ports included
• Small group size: Max of 8 travelers for a personalized feel

This tour delivers more than just sightseeing — it emphasizes hands-on experiences that bring Croatian culture and cuisine to life. From the moment you’re picked up in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan, the journey feels intimate and relaxed. The guide’s knowledge and personable attitude elevate the experience, making it as educational as it is enjoyable.

We loved how the tour balances history, gastronomy, and scenery. The stops are well-paced, allowing enough time to explore without feeling rushed. And the private nature of the tastings means you get tailored attention, making it a more memorable adventure than a typical group tour.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Ston – The Medieval Marvel

Your first stop is the charming town of Ston, famous for its second-longest city walls in the world. Walking along the ramparts offers sweeping views of the landscape and a glimpse into Croatia’s historic fortifications. The walls stretch over 5 kilometers and are a testament to Ston’s historical importance as a salt-producing hub.

You’ll also visit a salt factory, where salt has been harvested for centuries, and see the Church of St. Blase, a small but significant religious site. The entire visit lasts around an hour and is free of charge, giving you plenty of time to soak in the medieval atmosphere.

Stop 2: Putnikovic – Wining and Learning

Next, the journey takes you to Putnikovic, a quiet village where you’ll experience Croatian wine-making traditions firsthand. Here, you get to visit a local house dedicated to wine, where the owner shares stories and insights into traditional methods. The highlight is a wine tasting session—you’ll sample regional varieties and gain a deeper appreciation for Croatian viticulture.

According to reviews, the guide Tomi’s expertise really shines during this part, making the tasting feel more personal. One guest noted, “Tomi was highly knowledgeable and very personable,” which adds a lot of value, especially if you’re new to Croatian wines.

Scenic Cruise & Oyster Farm Visit

A key part of this experience is the boat cruise to oyster and mussel farms on Ston Bay. The boat ride offers stunning views of the coastline, with plenty of opportunities for photos. Once at the farm, you’ll see oysters and mussels being cultivated in their natural environment, with the option to join a boat tour to fully appreciate the marine farming process.

The boat tour costs an extra €35 per person and includes a bottle of wine and a meal with oysters and mussels. If only two travelers are present, they will need to cover this themselves, which is good to keep in mind for those traveling with a smaller group.

Lunch and Dinner in Mali Ston

The tour includes a regional lunch and dinner, typically featuring fresh seafood and local specialties. The town of Mali Ston is known for its seafood restaurants, and the meal often includes oysters, mussels, or other local catches. Guests have described the food as “delicious” and a fitting finale to a day filled with local flavors.

This tour is undoubtedly a value-packed adventure for those interested in Croatia’s culinary and historical riches. The combination of guided sightseeing, private tastings, and scenic boat rides makes it a well-rounded experience.

While the price of $179 may seem steep compared to standard group tours, it includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transport, and expert guiding, which significantly enhances the experience’s comfort and personalization. The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd; instead, you’ll get ample opportunity to ask questions and learn from your guide, Tomi.

From a practical standpoint, the timing is flexible — the tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it suitable for a morning or afternoon activity. It’s near public transportation, but a private vehicle makes for easier, more relaxed travel, especially when carrying wine and seafood.

What We Appreciated

• Knowledgeable guides: Tomi’s insights into local culture, wine, and history add depth to the experience.
• Authentic tastings: The focus on regional wine and oysters offers genuine flavors rather than touristy clichés.
• Scenic and historic stops: Walking the medieval walls and exploring Ston’s salt factory are highlights.
• Small group intimacy: The maximum of 8 travelers allows for personalized attention.

Potential Drawbacks

• The boat trip costs extra if you’re only two people, which could add to your total expense.
• The minimum participant requirement (4 people) might make it less flexible for solo travelers or small groups.
• The tour is weather dependent, especially the boat trip—poor weather might mean rescheduling or cancellations, though full refunds apply.

This experience is best suited for foodies, wine lovers, and history buffs wanting an authentic taste of Croatia beyond Dubrovnik’s walls. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group settings, personalized guides, and outdoor scenic activities like boat cruises.

Travelers interested in learning about Croatian traditions will find the visit to the wine house and oyster farms particularly rewarding. It’s also a good choice for those seeking a balanced mix of leisure, education, and regional culinary delights.

The Ston Gastro Tour from Dubrovnik offers a rare chance to explore Croatia’s local flavors and history in a relaxed, intimate setting. The combination of private tastings, scenic views, and historical sites creates a memorable experience that’s worth the price for many travelers. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, seafood enthusiast, or history lover, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging day out of Dubrovnik that highlights the best of Croatian culture.

While it’s not the cheapest activity, the authentic experiences, expert guides, and scenic stops make it a worthwhile investment. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer a more personalized, less crowded way to explore this beautiful region.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day more convenient and hassle-free.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I join the boat trip if I only have two people?
Yes, but you’ll need to pay for the boat trip yourself at €35 per person, and the minimum group for the tour to operate is four travelers.

What does the boat tour include?
The boat tour takes you to oyster and mussel farms on Ston Bay, and if you join, it includes a bottle of wine and a meal of oysters and mussels.

Are the tastings private?
Yes, the wine and oyster tastings are designed to be intimate and personalized, especially with the guide’s attentive approach.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s focus on tastings and water activities might require adult supervision.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is recommended. A hat and sunscreen are advisable during sunny days.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather, especially for the boat cruise. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a relaxed and personal experience.

In essence, this tour offers a nicely curated slice of Croatian culture, history, and cuisine—perfect for those eager to experience a side of Croatia not just seen but tasted and felt.