Orebić combines maritime history with the Franciscan monastery and hiking trails to Sv. Ilija. This offers different options for planning your visit: exploring collections and architectural history in town, or hiking on the mountain. The ferry line to Dominče adds a link between the Pelješac Peninsula and Korčula.

Getting There and Ferry Connection

The Orebić–Dominče ferry line connects Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula with Dominče on Korčula. A ticket for this line is valid for any departure on the date printed on it. If you are planning the crossing, check the timetable for your travel day, as departure times may change. You should also confirm the current ticket-use conditions with the operator.

Maritime and Local History

Since the 17th century, Orebić was an important center of the merchant fleet of the Republic of Dubrovnik. Another notable date is the ceremonial opening of the local shipyard in 1875, which took place during a visit by Emperor Franz Joseph. These details point to different periods: Orebić’s role in the merchant fleet from the 17th century onward, and a specific event in the shipyard’s history in the 19th century.

The Orebić Maritime Museum focuses on archaeological, maritime and historical book collections. Exhibits include nautical charts, books about the sea, travel documents, ropes, pictures of famous sailing ships and ship tools. Documents and charts are displayed alongside maritime objects and depictions of ships. Anyone interested in the history of seafarers will find a range of collection items here, rather than a single perspective on the subject.

Franciscan Monastery and Votive Museum

The Franciscan monastery on Mount Sv. Ilija lies 150 meters above sea level and is a viewpoint. It houses the Votive Museum. The wider destination of Orebić is also associated with the story of a painting of the Virgin Mary: it is said to have washed ashore in Orebić in the 15th century. Behind the church is the captains’ cemetery, with the Mimbelli family mausoleum.

Hiking on Sv. Ilija

Sv. Ilija reaches 961 meters above sea level. Four of the peninsula’s six hiking trails lead to the mountain above Orebić. The Ruskovići (04) trail starts in Orebić and is the steepest hiking route to Sv. Ilija. These differences can help you decide what to focus on during your stay: visiting maritime and religious heritage sites, or spending time on the mountain trails.

Winery and Other Heritage Sites

Korta Katarina is a winery in Orebić. It is associated with the restoration of the former Hotel Riviera and its villa, as well as the construction of a modern winery. The story of the former hotel is therefore part of the local architectural and economic transformation.

The wider destination of Orebić has other distinct heritage connections. In Nakovanj, Spila Nakovana Cave is a protected cultural property. It was used as an Illyrian sanctuary during the Iron Age, in the 3rd to 4th centuries BC. The protected cultural and historical complex “Povijesni prostor Nakovana” comprises Gornja and Donja Nakovana. In Kuna Pelješka, the Church of Gospe od Loreta – Delorita was built in 1681 in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Loreto; locally, it is also known as Gospa od Delorite.

Discover more destinations: Donja Banda, Kućište, Kuna Pelješka, Potomje, Nakovanj, Trstenik, Podobuče, Oskorušno.

Go to the main travel overview: Orebić.