It’s a charming town and municipality in Dubrovnik-Neretva County on the southeastern coast of the Pelješac peninsula (Wikipedia). Situated beneath the Sveti Ilija hill (961 m), this town overlooks the island of Korčula to the south across the Pelješac Channel (Korcula.net). Its name comes from the maritime noble family Orebić , who renovated the medieval castle in 1586, and in 1707 Emperor Joseph granted it noble status – today the original charter is kept in the Maritime Museum, and a copy in the Franciscan monastery
Orebić has a population of around 3,700 according to the 2021 census, while the urban area has around 1,794 inhabitants (Wikipedia). During the summer, the population increases manifold thanks to tourists from Croatia and abroad.
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Since the 17th century , Orebić has been the center of Dubrovnik’s merchant navy and an important port of the Dubrovnik Republic (dubrovnik.in). In the 19th century, it became the headquarters of the “Pelješća Maritime Society” , and in 1875 a local shipyard was opened, cementing the city’s reputation in the maritime world
The maritime tradition is evident in the captains’ houses along the coast – magnificent buildings with lush gardens and sea views, symbols of the wealth and prestige of seafaring families (dubrovnik.in). Today, many of the houses have been partially restored for tourism or museum purposes.
The city also houses the Orebić Maritime Museum , which preserves artifacts, ship models, portraits of captains, and a rich archive of maritime history (dubrovnik.in).
Orebić is protected by the mountains of Sveti Ilija and Vizanjica , which protect it from the bora wind and provide a pleasant Mediterranean climate – for example, the average July temperature is around 26.5 °C, and the sea reaches over 22 °C (Korcula.net).
The wind protection and climate contribute to a long tourist season that lasts from spring to late autumn. Orebic is therefore ranked among the sunniest destinations with almost 2,600 hours of sunshine per year (Croatia Week).
The surroundings are rich in Mediterranean vegetation – pines, cypresses, olive trees, agaves, almonds – which gives a special charm to the promenades and viewpoints.
Trstenica is the main beach in Orebić – 1.5 km long, pebble and sandy, with a gentle entrance to the sea, making it suitable for families and children.
Next to it are smaller coves with rocky shores, ideal for those seeking peace and privacy.
Situated 152 m above sea level, the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of the Angels offers panoramic views of the island of Korčula and the channel. The church was built in the late 15th century, in Gothic-Renaissance style, and the bell tower dominates the landscape (Wikipedia). Tradition has it that captains passing under the monastery would greet with three sirens, and the Franciscans would respond with a bell – a symbol of the city’s maritime connections
Sveti Ilija (961 m) is the highest peak of Pelješac. A well-marked trail of about 4.5 km and a little over 900 m of ascent leads from Orebić. The summit offers a panoramic view of Korčula, the islands, the Pelješac Channel , and even Italy on a clear day ( Wikipedia , humbo.com ).
The climb takes about two hours and passes through pine forests and olive groves. There are markers on the trail every 500 m, and there is also the Sveti Ilija mountain lodge ( Wikipedia ).
In the hills near Orebić is the archaeological site of Nakovana , which was discovered in 1999 as an Illyrian cave-cult sanctuary with artifacts and a 2200-year-old astrological ivory tablet ( Wikipedia ).
This testimony to prehistoric culture makes this area interesting for archaeology and history lovers.
A walk along the Orebić waterfront offers views of the magnificent captains’ palaces – built between the 18th and 19th centuries, often surrounded by gardens rich in Mediterranean plants. Many are now privately owned, but some offer sightseeing tours or are suitable for tours.
In the Maritime Museum, you can see original charters, models of sailing ships, navigational instruments, maritime archives and portraits of famous captains.
Trstenica offers kilometers of pebble and sandy beaches for sunbathing, swimming, diving and activities such as kayaking. Typical activities include sport fishing, water polo, surfing, sailing
Viganj and Kućište (about 10 km from Orebić) are well-known windsurfing destinations , especially for lovers of strong bora and thermal winds. They attract active tourists during the warmer months.
Besides Sveti Ilija, surrounding trails lead through olive groves and up to villages such as Prapratno, Podobuča and Oskorušno , offering natural beauty, local viewpoints and traditional potential ( Croatia Week ).
The Orebić area is home to top-notch vineyards, especially Plavac Mali , as well as the Dingač and Postup vineyards , which are appreciated in Croatia and beyond.
Excursions include visits to local wineries between June and October, with tastings of local wines and learning about the production tradition.
The summer season brings:
Klapa groups often perform in the commercial part of the city or in halls, creating an authentic Dalmatian atmosphere.
Orebic is characterized by a diverse gastronomy:
Orebić Weather – The best period to visit Orebić is from May to September:
Orebic combines a rich maritime history , natural beauty , top-notch wine , outdoor activities , and the relaxing atmosphere of Dalmatia. With panoramic viewpoints, cultural attractions, numerous beaches, and festivals and klapa music, it offers an experience for families, adventurers, gourmets, and peace-lovers.
If you are looking for a destination that offers sun, sea, nature and cultural atmosphere – Orebić is the right destination . Book your accommodation , plan your excursions and enjoy a unique vacation on Pelješac.