MOSTAR, BOSNIA
Explore Mostar, Bosnia's hidden gem, where rugged landscapes, rich history, and authentic culture await beyond the usual tourist routes. Check out our "FULL Bosnia travel guide" here.
WHERE IS MOSTAR?
Mostar is a picturesque city located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled in the Herzegovina region along the Neretva River. Known for its stunning blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture, Mostar sits approximately 130 kilometers southwest of Sarajevo and is easily accessible by car, bus, or train. The city is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and serves as a gateway to exploring the surrounding Herzegovinian countryside, including attractions like Blagaj and Kravica Waterfalls. Mostar’s strategic location and rich cultural history make it an essential stop on any trip through the Balkans.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT MOSTAR?
Mostar is a hidden gem in Europe, perfect for travellers seeking an authentic experience away from the usual tourist hotspots. Its relaxed atmosphere, rich culture, and friendly locals offer a glimpse into a side of Europe that often goes unnoticed. With a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, Mostar invites visitors to immerse themselves in Bosnia’s fascinating history and vibrant traditions. Whether you’re savouring delicious local cuisine, strolling through its charming streets, or simply soaking up the slower pace of life, Mostar is an ideal destination for those looking to explore something different and truly memorable.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT MOSTAR?
The best time to visit Mostar is during the spring (April to June) or early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. These seasons are perfect for exploring the city’s historic streets, enjoying outdoor dining, and visiting nearby natural attractions in comfortable temperatures. Summer (July and August) is the most popular time to visit, offering sunny days and vibrant energy, but it can get quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F). For those who prefer fewer tourists and cooler weather, winter provides a peaceful and atmospheric experience, although some attractions may have limited access. We visited in July and would not recommend it, we found the heat unbearable at times and many of the popular locations seemed to be a lot busier than we expected.
HOW LONG SHOULD YOU SPEND IN MOSTAR?
Spending 1 to 2 days in Mostar is ideal for exploring the city and soaking in its unique charm. A full day is enough to see the highlights of Mostar and wander through the historic Old Town while giving you enough time to enjoy some of the traditional Bosnian cuisine. If you have more time, staying a second day allows you to explore the city at a slower pace, visit local museums, and take in the atmosphere. Additionally, with two days, you can use Mostar as a base for short trips to nearby attractions (which we will cover later in the blog).
HOW TO GET TO MOSTAR
Getting to Mostar is straightforward and accessible by various modes of transportation:
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🛫 By Plane: The nearest major airport is Sarajevo International Airport, located about 130 kilometers away. From Sarajevo, you can take a train, bus, or drive to Mostar. Alternatively, Split Airport in Croatia is about 2.5 hours away by car, offering another option for international travelers.
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🚆 By Train: Mostar is connected to Sarajevo by a scenic train route that takes approximately 2.5 hours. This journey is known for its breathtaking views of the Neretva River and the surrounding mountains.
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🚍 By Bus: Regular bus services connect Mostar to Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, Split, and other nearby cities. The buses are affordable, comfortable, and a popular choice for travelers.
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🚖 By Car: Driving to Mostar is a convenient way to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Well-maintained roads connect Mostar to Sarajevo (2 hours), Split (2.5 hours), and Dubrovnik (2.5 hours).
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🧑🏼✈️ By Tour: Many guided tours from cities like Dubrovnik and Sarajevo include a day trip to Mostar, making it easy to visit without arranging your own transport.
No matter how you arrive, the journey to Mostar is often part of the adventure, offering stunning landscapes along the way!
TOP TIP!
We would highly recommend downloading an E-Sim prior to arriving. This means you will have signal and data as soon as you arrive which is extremely useful. We would recommend purchasing an E-Sim through Airalo, they offer the best service at the cheapest prices. You can purchase an E-Sim here.
VISIT THE ICONIC STARI MOST (OLD BRIDGE)
The Stari Most (Old Bridge) is the heart of Mostar and one of the most iconic landmarks in the Balkans. Built in the 16th century by the Ottomans, the elegant stone arch spans the emerald waters of the Neretva River, symbolizing the city's historical connection between East and West. It's the perfect spot to take in panoramic views of Mostar’s old town, with its blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture framed by the surrounding hills. For an unforgettable experience, watch the daring divers who leap from the bridge into the river below.. if you are feeling brave enough, you can also have a go yourself. It's safe to say, we didn't try this!
EXPLORE THE OLD BAZAAR
Wander through this charming cobbled street filled with traditional shops selling handcrafted goods, jewellery, and souvenirs. Here you will find plenty of bars and restaurants, so be sure to stop at one of them and enjoy a Turkish coffee or baklava.. (this we definitely did)!
ENJOY PANORAMIC VIEWS OF MOSTAR
The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque without a doubt offers the best view point in Mostar. For a small fee you can climb the minaret for panoramic views of Mostar and the Neretva River. There is also a small and peaceful courtyard to explore and learn about its Ottoman heritage.
VISIT MOSTARS SECRET BEACH
Mejdan Beach is a hidden gem tucked away beneath the iconic Stari Most bridge, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling streets of Mostar. This secluded riverside spot is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the soothing sounds of the Neretva River. The beach’s cool, clear waters provide a refreshing retreat on a hot day, making it an ideal spot for a swim. Surrounded by lush greenery and the breathtaking backdrop of the Old Bridge, Mejdan Beach feels like a peaceful oasis where you can relax and soak in the beauty of Mostar away from the crowds.
VISIT THE CROOKED BRIDGE
The Crooked Bridge (Kriva Ćuprija) is a charming and smaller version of the iconic Stari Most, nestled in a peaceful corner of Mostar. Built in the 16th century, this quaint stone bridge spans the Radobolja River and is thought to have been a prototype for the Old Bridge. Although a quick stop, it's definitely worth a quick visit that's for sure.
WATCH THE SUNSET FROM AN ABANDONED SNIPER TOWER
The Mostar Sniper Tower is a haunting reminder of the city’s tumultuous past during the Bosnian War. This abandoned, war-damaged building once served as a military stronghold, with its strategic location offering commanding views of the city. Today, it stands as a symbol of the conflict, with graffiti-covered walls and shattered windows telling a story of the devastation that the city endured. While it remains a somber site, it is a popular spot to watch the sunset.
DAY TRIP TO LAKE JABLANICA
On our journey from Sarajevo to Mostar, we made a perfect stop at Lake Jablanica, one of Bosnia’s most picturesque spots. We relaxed at "Exotic Beach," a small, serene area offering sun loungers and a charming shack selling cold beers and water. We also came back here for the afternoon during one of our days in Mostar - it's easily accessible and only around a 1 hour drive from Mostar. The crystal-clear waters of the lake were perfect for a refreshing swim, surrounded by stunning mountain views. It was an ideal place to unwind, soak up the tranquility, and cool off before heading back to Mostar.
DAY TRIP TO KRAVICA WATERFALLS
A visit to the Kravica Waterfalls, located just a 45-minute drive from Mostar, is a must for nature lovers seeking a refreshing escape. These stunning cascades, surrounded by lush greenery, create a natural amphitheater perfect for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water. You can explore the area via walking trails, swim freely within the waterfalls or even rent a kayak to get closer to the falls. For a bite to eat, enjoy local Bosnian cuisine at one of the nearby riverside restaurants, such as Restoran Mali Raj. Kravica is an ideal spot for a day trip, offering breathtaking scenery and a peaceful retreat from the city. Be warned, unfortunately, this is no secret and off the beaten path location. There are multiple day trips from neighbouring Croatia as well as other parts of Bosnia. We got here early, and there was already quite a long queue of people waiting to get in. We would definitely recommend visiting as early as possible and during the week if you can. We left around midday and the waterfalls were absolutely packed with tourists, leaving not much room for relaxing. Nonetheless, we would still definitely recommend visiting.
DAY TRIP TO BALAJ TEKIJA
Blagaj, a charming village near Mostar, is a fantastic day trip destination offering stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage. The highlight is the Blagaj Tekke (Dervish Monastery), a 16th-century Sufi monastery nestled beneath a towering cliff on the banks of the emerald-green Buna River. Here you can explore the monastery, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, and enjoy a boat ride to the river's spring. If you fancy a snack, head to one of the riverside restaurants, like Restoran Vrelo, where you can enjoy some freshly grilled trout and traditional Bosnian dishes while relaxing by the water. Blagaj offers a peaceful retreat perfect for a spot of lunch and a beer, we would definitely recommend visiting. You don't need the whole day to visit Blagaj and can easily pair it with a visit to our next spot, Kravica waterfalls.
Mostar offers a range of accommodation options, catering to all types of travellers. You can find charming boutique hotels with views of the Old Bridge, cozy guesthouses tucked away in the cobblestone streets, and modern hostels for those on a budget. There are also traditional Bosnian-style lodges and riverside resorts offering a more tranquil experience. After weighing our choices, we opted for this perfectly centrally located Airbnb, ideal for exploring the heart of the city on foot. We would recommend this Airbnb because of its location and ease of access to the old town. There is also a street for parking directly behind.
URBAN
Urban, A Taste of Orient in Mostar has by the best views of the Old Bridge from their outside seated terrace. Urban offers a captivating fusion of Middle Eastern and Bosnian flavors, where aromatic spices and traditional recipes come together in a cozy, vibrant setting. They also do a lovely breakfast buffet for 2 which we would definitely recommend. We would also recommend getting her just before they open as we noticed a large queue forming (mostly full of people wanting a table on the terrace to get the perfect pictures of Mostar).
RESTAURANT ŠADRVAN
This is a popular spot known for its traditional Bosnian cuisine. Here they offer a variety of traditional Bosnian cuisine such as grilled meats, local specialties like burek, and cevapi all served in a charming setting with views of the Old Bridge.
TIMA IRMA
Tima Irma is a beloved family-run restaurant in Mostar, well known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and delicious homemade Bosnian cuisine. Located near the Old Bridge, the restaurant again specialises in traditional dishes all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The rustic, yet cozy interior features wooden beams and charming décor, creating a comfortable environment that feels like dining at a local’s home.
A trip to Ohrid, North Macedonia, is an unforgettable experience and a true hidden gem in Europe. With its rich history, stunning lake views, and charming mix of ancient churches, peaceful beaches, and quaint streets, Ohrid offers something for every traveller. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to escape the crowds and experience a slower, more relaxed pace of life, all while soaking in a unique cultural heritage. Whether you’re exploring the town’s UNESCO sites, enjoying local cuisine, or simply relaxing by the serene waters of Lake Ohrid, there’s a sense of tranquility here that’s hard to find elsewhere. We can’t recommend Ohrid enough—visit now, before this gem becomes too popular, and discover the beauty and charm of this incredible destination for yourself.
