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Home > 9 Cross The Border Day Trips From Dubrovnik To Mostar + Ways To Go On Your Own

9 Cross The Border Day Trips From Dubrovnik To Mostar + Ways To Go On Your Own

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

The town of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina is located a mere 2.5 hours from Dubrovnik. It stands out as a premier destination in the Balkans, renowned for its enchanting medieval architecture, charming cobblestone streets, and the picturesque Neretva River. This article highlights the best day trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar.

Below the tour options you will also find ways to get to Mostar from Dubrovnik on your own by car and public transport.

These guided tours offer in-depth insights and access to areas around Mostar, often not reachable by public transport. Discover the town’s rich history, once besieged during the early 90s Bosnian conflict and now beautifully restored.

A visit to Mostar allows tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture, explore the vibrant bazaar, and savor traditional Bosnian cuisine. While Mostar can be explored in a day, this guide invites you to delve deeper into its unique charm and historical significance.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Why You Should Book A Guided Tour Of Mostar

Many guided tours of Mostar from Dubrovnik also include stops at natural landmarks and popular villages like Blagaj and Počitelj and offer great value if you don’t have a car.

While you can also visit Mostar by bus, taking a guided tour offers a better insight into the culture and history of this scenic area. Although you can always explore Mostar on foot, you could miss out on many interesting facts from its history if you don’t have a guide.

1. Mostar And Kravice Waterfalls Small Group Tour

One of the most popular tours of Mostar from Dubrovnik combines a visit to a historic city with a stop at the 80-foot (25-meter) tall Kravice Waterfalls, a famous natural landmark in Bosnia.

The tour group starts in the morning with a pickup from your Dubrovnik hotel, and after that, you drive through Croatia and cross the Bosnia-Herzegovina border toward Kravice, your first stop.

Kravice waterfalls are a sight to behold at any time of the year, but if you visit in summer when water levels are lower, you can enjoy a short swim in the shallow pools. You’ll have 45 minutes to spend at the site.

The tour continues with a visit to Mostar, where you will enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Town, the famous ‘Stari Most’ (bridge), and other historic sites. You will also have some free time after the tour, so you can do some shopping and enjoy the lunch (at your own expense)

The tour provides a free entrance ticket to a Turkish house in Mostar, the most visited museum in this city. When booking a tour, you can choose from a small group, minibus (18 people), or coach (38 people).

Make sure you bring your passport, as you will have to cross the border between Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina.

What’s Included:

• English-speaking guide
• 
Hotel/port pickup and drop-off
• 
Local guide
• Free entrance to the Turkish house, a well-known landmark near the Mostar bridge.

What’s Not Included:

• Food and drinks
• The waterfall entrance fee is 10€ per person

Book this tour here!

2. mostar and medjugorje day trip from dubrovnik.

This fun day trip from Dubrovnik to Bosnia includes several stops. First, you get to see the UNESCO-listed Počitelj, a picturesque village on the left bank of the Neretva River. It is famous for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, including a fortress, mosques, and a clock tower.

The second stop of your tour is Medjugorje, a town where, in 1981, six children saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary. Medjugorje has become one of the most popular spots for Catholic pilgrimage in the world.

The last stop of the trip is Mostar, where you will have a guided tour of the city and its treasures like Stari Most (Old Bridge), a 16th-century Ottoman bridge spanning the Neretva River.

The bridge you see today was reconstructed in 2004 after it was destroyed in 1993 during the siege and has quickly become a symbol of Mostar. To get the best view of the city and the bridge, get on top of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, which provides wonderful panoramic views.

• Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
• English-speaking driver
• Pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified

3. Mostar Day Trip From Dubrovnik

Enjoy the gorgeous countryside of the Balkan peninsula en route to Mostar on this day trip from Dubrovnik.

During the tour, you will have a chance to take a walk along the streets and visit the Old Bazaar alongside historical mosques like the 17th century Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque near Stari Most, where you can climb to the minaret for panoramic views of Mostar.

Another popular landmark is the War Photo Exhibition. Housed in a former sniper tower, this museum displays a powerful collection documenting the Bosnian War in Mostar.

As you walk around Mostar, you can still see bullet holes in many buildings, which offer a glimpse into the tragic events that unfolded a few decades ago.

• Transportation
• Local guide
• Entrance fee to the Turkish house and mosque
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only)
• Food and drinks, unless specified otherwise

4. Private Tour To Mostar, Stolac, Pocitelj & Blagaj By Cruiser Taxi

If you are looking for a private trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar, book this adventure that involves Stolac, Počitelj, and Blagaj Tekke, also known as Blagaj Tekija, a historical Dervish monastery near the town of Blagaj, approximately 12 kilometers south of Mostar.

The tour will start between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m. in Dubrovnik, where you will be picked up by a cruiser taxi.

The first stop will be Stolac, where you will have a quick tour of the Old Town, featuring medieval architecture, narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and old fortifications.

After that, you will visit Počitelj, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its scenic setting and historic architecture. The next stop will be Mostar, where you will explore the old town and visit the famous bridge.

As a part of your time in Mostar, a visit to Blagaj Tekke will be arranged. This beautiful monastery is located under a cliff near the town of Blagaj, marking the last stop of the tour. The monastery was built in the 16th century, and it is considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in the country.

Since 1520, this Ottoman monastery has served as a place of contemplation for the Muslim Dervish fraternity. You can learn about the monastery’s residents’ mystical order and cultural importance on a visit here.

• Air-conditioned vehicle
• Coffee and/or tea
• Private transportation
• Pickup and drop-off can be at different locations

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5. mostar, kravice waterfalls and blagaj private tour from dubrovnik.

If you don’t want to take a group tour, join a private day tour from Dubrovnik that will take you to the best places, including Mostar, Stari Most Bridge, Kravice Falls, and Blagaj.

Unlike group tours, which need to accommodate many people and can feel a bit rushed, a private tour will allow you to enjoy the undivided attention of your guide, who will show you the highlights and offer great details about the places you will visit.

You will also be able to spend more time at each landmark and have a more personal interaction with your guide.

After a guided tour, take some free time to explore the shops in Mostar and enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch (at your own expense).

Mostar offers a variety of culinary experiences, blending Turkish, Mediterranean, and Balkan flavors. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bosnian dishes, such as cevapi, burek , and local sweets.

• English-speaking driver/guide (other languages available upon request)
• Walking tour in Mostar
• Transport by fully air-conditioned private vehicle
• Entrance fees to Kravice waterfalls
• Take a walking tour in Pocitelj, guided by English-speaking tour guides
• All fees and taxes visit to Blagaj

6. Private Tour Of Sarajevo From Dubrovnik With A Stop In Mostar

If you are up for a bigger adventure, book a tour of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia, one of the most interesting cities in the Balkans that is often called “The Jerusalem of Europe” because of its cultural and religious diversity.

Sarajevo is also known because of the significant historical events that unfolded here. It was the place of the outbreak of World War I and also saw the longest siege in modern history, the tragic event that unfolded over a few years in the early 90’s.

After crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will stop at the Franjo Tudjman Bridge and pass through historically important towns like Nuem, Počitelj, and Mostar before arriving in the Bosnian capital.

When you get to Sarajevo, you will have 3 hours of free time to discover the most important landmarks and memorials of the city, like Latin Bridge, Bascarsija Bazaar, and the Gazi Husref Beg Mosque, one of the most beautiful mosques in the Balkans.

The tour also includes stops at Neum, Počitelj, and Mostar. You can also adjust the itinerary upon request.

• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Private driver

7. Private Tour Of Mostar From Dubrovnik

See a different side of the Balkans with this entertaining and educational tour from Dubrovnik to Mostar. Make a quick stop in the stunning town of Pocitelj before arriving in Mostar, a town that combines the words most (bridge) and Star (old) in its name because of the beautiful and ancient bridge that spans the river here. This is one of the best tours if you are looking for a more curated experience and more flexibility, as your guide will be able to give you their full attention.

• Transport by private vehicle
• Bottled water
• Entrance Fees to Turkish House and Mosque

8. Private 2-Day Mostar, Pocitelj And Sarajevo Tour From Dubrovnik

Bosnia is one of the most beautiful destinations in the Balkans, and you need more time to see its top highlights. This fun 2-day tour from Dubrovnik includes stops in Mostar, Počitelj, and Sarajevo, some of the most interesting places in the country where you can enjoy your time without having to go back on the same day.

During the tour, you will stay in 3- and 5-star hotels and discover charming towns, such as UNESCO-listed Počitelj, along with one of the jewels of Bosnia, the old bridge in the city of Mostar, followed by Sarajevo.

This small group is limited to just 19 participants, which means you’ll get the most out of the tour and the guide.

• A knowledgeable tour guide will be available for hours in Mostar & Sarajevo
• One night of accommodation in central Sarajevo
• 

Gratuities

9. Semi-Private Tour Of Mostar And Kravice Waterfalls From Dubrovnik

Navigating the new country on your own could be challenging, especially for first-time visitors.

If you are visiting Dubrovnik for the first time and want to explore neighboring Bosnia, join this top-rated semi-private tour of Mostar that also includes a stop at Kravice Waterfalls.

Your driver will pick you up from your Dubrovnik hotel, where you’ll then head out past the seaside villages of the Dubrovnik Riviera toward the Bosnian countryside before you will arrive in Mostar, where you will enjoy an education tour of the city and also have some free time to shop around, visit historic landmarks and enjoy traditional Bosnian dishes at one of the local restaurants.

You will also stop at the Kravice Waterfalls on your way back to Dubrovnik.

• All taxes, fees, and handling charges
• Professional guide
• Entrance ticket for waterfalls, 10 euro

Dubrovnik To Mostar Map

How To Get From Dubrovnik To Mostar

Dubrovnik to mostar by car or private transfer.

Mostar is about 2.5* hours away by car from Dubrovnik. There are three driving routes between Dubrovnik and Mostar .

• Dubrovnik via Tribinje, Stolac, and Buna to Mostar by M6 and M18roads
• From Dubrovnik via Metković to Mostar via M6 and D8 routes
• From Dubrovnik via Tribinje, Bileca, Stolac, and Buna to Mostar by R427 and M20. This route is the longest

If you’re like me and don’t want to worry about navigating a foreign land, and you did not find any day trip options you liked –  take a private transfer , which is quite affordable. Prices start from 250 euros. This is a super-convenient way to spend a day in Mostar, as you can sleep all the way back.

Get a quote on your private transfers here.

Dubrovnik to mostar bus.

The Dubrovnik to Mostar bus takes 3 and 3.5 hours* to reach this charming historic town. There are at least three buses a day serving this route. A one-way ticket costs 15 euros.

Outside of peak season, there’s rarely a need for advance bus reservations, although if you are in Dubrovnik anyway, you may as well buy your ticket early to guarantee your seat.

Local Tip:  If you plan to take the bus from Dubrovnik to Mostar, grab a seat on the bus’s left side to see the spectacular landscape of Croatia and Southern Bosnia during your border crossing. When you travel from Mostar to Dubrovnik by bus, sit on the bus’s right side for the same impressive view.

We recommend you book your bus tickets here.

Dubrovnik to mostar by train.

No trains are connecting Dubrovnik and Mostar.

Crossing this border can be unpredictable, so travel times can vary significantly, especially during peak season. Before reaching Mostar, you  must go through passport control, so don’t forget your passport at home or in the hotel – even if you plan to return on the same day.

Day Trip From Dubrovnik To Mostar – Recommend Self-Drive Stops

There’s nothing better than getting a rental car for the most freedom on your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip. You can (and should!) stop at the following places on the way between those two famous cities.

Historic Trebinje is the southernmost town in Bosnia-Herzegovina, located on the banks of the scenic Trebisnjica River. The old town center dates from the 18 th -century Ottoman Empire period and is home to the beautiful Arslanagic Bridge, while many hills frame the town nicely.

It is the closest town in Bosnia-Herzegovina to Dubrovnik and is a great stopping point on a day trip to Mostar . Besides historic architecture, you can enjoy wine (some of the cheapest in Europe) at local wineries or even an old monastery.

They will often give you young cheese or olive oil produced locally to taste while you are there. Other top attractions include the fantastic 15 th -century Serbian Orthodox Tvrdoš Monastery, the Gracanica Church, and kayaking on the river.

The next stop on a Dubrovnik to Mostar tour is Stolac, situated directly between both cities. This beautiful old city has a vibrant history, having been part of four empires (Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian) and three different kingdoms (Bosnian, Hungarian, and Yugoslav). Stolac is also a meeting point for the world’s three monotheistic religions: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism.

When visiting Stolac on a day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik, you can see this historical wealth and cultural diversity in the town’s striking architecture. The old town has beautiful historic buildings, while the Stolac Fortress is a collection of ruins home to a famous 4-meter-high cross.

Additionally, just three kilometers west of Stolac, you can visit a fantastic necropolis of so-called stećci, a vast collection of medieval tombstones that are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Another must-visit destination when driving from Dubrovnik to Mostar is Počitelj. This gorgeous town is one of the greatest highlights of southern Bosnia-Herzegovina. It’s a fantastic  place to visit for people who love history and culture.

This picturesque village sits on the left bank of the scenic Neretva River and dates from the Middle Ages. During its long and eventful history, Hungarian, Ottoman, and Venetian occupations were seen, all of which left behind architectural and other marks.

Nowadays, Počitelj is a welcoming and charming stone village worthy of at least an hour of your time. Many Mostar day trips from Dubrovnik are often combined with other nearby places like Blagaj and Stolac.

Attractions include the Kula, a silo-shaped fortress with the Sahat Kula bell tower, and the Hajji Alija Mosque. This town is so well-preserved it’s essentially a free open-air museum.

Travelers going on a Dubrovnik-Mostar day trip usually swing by Blagaj. One of the most popular tourist attractions in southeastern Herzegovina, Blagaj is a small and historical village town in the Buna River’s spring . At this spring, and in front of towering cliffs, stand a beautiful 16th-century “tekija,” a Dervish monastery.

Constructed with Ottoman and Mediterranean architectural elements, the Dervish monastery in Blagaj is a famous national monument in Bosnia-Herzegovina . You only need a couple of hours to explore this tranquil, almost magical riverside village, which makes it one of the best places to visit near Mostar. It’s super easy to involve it in a longer visit to Mostar.

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Recommended Mostar To Sarajevo Self-Drive Stops

We recommend swinging by these great points of interest if you’d like to continue your Balkan road trip from Mostar to Sarajevo , the Bosnian capital.

The town of Konjic is a short drive north of Mostar and is well worth the time and effort, especially if you’re into history. After all, this is one of the oldest surviving towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina , its roots dating back 4,000 years. The town, in its present form, originated sometime in the late 14th century.

One of the main highlights of Konjic is its famous old bridge, called Stara Cuprija, which was constructed in 1682-1683. It is registered as a national monument in Bosnia and Herzegovina , a landmark of national importance.

Ark Tito’s Bunker

Also located in Konjic, the Armijska Ratna Komanda ARK D-0 is a Cold War-era nuclear bunker known more commonly as the Ark or Tito’s Bunker. It was built to protect Yugoslav President Josip Tito and his entourage if there were ever to be a nuclear attack.

Although Tito’s Bunker remained a national secret until after the Balkan War, it now serves as an excellent space for cultural and artistic exhibitions. It’s still part of a military facility to this day, but you can visit it on guided tours, which are one of the truly unique things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

When you decide to extend your Dubrovnik to Mostar tour with a visit to Konjic, we also recommend driving over to nearby Jablanica. This popular tourist town is situated just west of Konjic; this popular tourist town features excellent hiking trails and amazing historical attractions, including two sites containing medieval stećci.

This is also where you’ll find the fascinating Museum of the Battle of the Wounded on the Neretva River, which commemorates and exhibits one of World War II’s most renowned battles.

What Jablanica is more famous for than anything else, however, is its fantastic food. This is the Balkan capital of roasted and grilled lamb, an unusual delicacy in the area. Don’t leave Jablanica without trying some slowly roasted lamb!

Mostar is one of the most exciting day trips from Dubrovnik that allows you to enjoy one of the most spectacular destinations in the Balkans and visit picturesque villages and natural landmarks in the Bosnian countryside. Although you can always take a bus or rent a car, joining a guided tour will help you save time on the road and planning required for a day trip.

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Comments (4)

It is really one of the best destinations to travel to and create some prolific memories.

We enjoy your blog! We are digital nomads. We have read many of your blogs about destinations. Thx for the help!

We’ll be in Dubrovnik early July. Do you know if PCR tests are required for the Mostar day trip out of Dubrovnik?

We were reading your April 2021 update. We didn’t see anything about current Covid procedures?

Hvala! Scott and Shell Weier

Hi SJ, Its been a while.. Quick question about flying into dubrovnik to go to Mostar, are there any airport shuttles that go straight up without needing to go into the city. I’ve tried searching the Web, but my solo travel skills are a little rusty after all that’s happened in the world over the last couple of years. Xx

Heya Sammi, nice to see you on the move again. I am confused, where do you want to go from and to?

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Plan the Perfect Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip in 2024

Looking for tips on how to plan the ultimate Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip? I’ve got you covered!

If you’re heading to Dubrovnik, then a visit to Mostar is an absolute must! Just a short drive away from the famous walled city, Mostar (located in Bosnia & Herzegovina) offers medieval history, scenic surroundings, and quaint cobbled alleys.

I’ve been living in Croatia full time since 2014 and have visited both Dubrovnik and Mostar numerous times. I have good friends that live in both Mostar and Dubrovnik that have kindly shown me around and given me insider tips on how to make the most of my visits.

Whether you want to visit Mostar from Dubrovnik on your own, or join a group day trip, I’ll share all the details you need to know to have an unforgettable experience.

Let’s get started!

Table of Contents 👇

How to Get from Dubrovnik to Mostar

There are a few travel options to consider when you’re planning a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar.

Dubrovnik can be an expensive destination , so based on your budget and the amount of time you have, you can choose among several travel options. You can travel to Mostar from Dubrovnik with an organized tour, by bus, or at your own pace with a rental car.

Group Day Trips to Mostar From Dubrovnik

There are many day trips from Dubrovnik, and Mostar remains among the most popular! If it’s raining in Dubrovnik , Mostar is a fantastic choice for a day trip as it is further inland and usually sunny.

If you want an efficient and thorough day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik where you won’t have to do too much pre-planning, hopping on a small group tour is the way to go. Once on board, you’ll be whisked away to the likes of Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls, and potentially Medjugorje, depending on what tour you book.

Most tour companies operating Mostar day trips from Dubrovnik will pick you up from your accommodation in Dubrovnik or will have a central meeting point. 

Organized day trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar generally last 10-12 hours and leave bright and early in the AM. The perk to this is you will be back in Dubrovnik for dinner and can still have the whole evening back in town.

Tours to Mostar might cost anywhere from 50 USD to 75 USD depending on what tour you opt for and what you would like included. Some tours will cover ticket prices of some of the sites you will visit; others may not.

1. Mostar & Kravica Waterfalls: Small Group Tour from Dubrovnik

This small group t our is one of the most popular full day tours to Mostar from Dubrovnik. Your day will begin with an early morning pick-up at your hotel in Dubrovnik followed by a scenic journey to the border of Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Your first stop on this tour will be the beautiful Kravice Waterfalls, hidden in the forests of Bosnia & Herzegovina. Here, you’ll have free time to relax beside the falls, or if you can brave the icy cold waters, jump in for a swim!

After hanging out at Kravice, you’ll continue to Mostar and embark on a short walking tour of the city with your guide. You’ll then have some free time to roam around on your own and enjoy a traditional meal (like cevapcici) before hopping back into your air conditioned mini van back to Dubrovnik.

“this day has been truly wonderful! the busride felt safe and the seats were very comfortable. which really stood out was the expertise of the guide. she gave plenty of deep insights of the balkan history and culture. she also often has spoken out of her own experience, which made the guiding so authentic…all in all we highly recommend this fantastic trip!” – Davy & Nam ( Read more reviews )

2. Private Tour: Mostar Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Explore Bosnia & Herzegovina’s top attractions on a private tour of Mostar from Dubrovnik. This tour is a great option if you are traveling as a family or small group, and want some extra flexibility. Your guide, and driver, will provide a wealth of of information and knowledge that you simply cannot get from other group tours, making your trip even more meaningful. Your tour will begin with pick-up from your hotel in Dubrovnik. From there, you’ll drive up the coast while enjoying scenic views of the Elafiti Islands as you make your way toward the border. After arriving in Bosnia & Herzegovina, you’ll first visit the Ottoman village of Počitelj, and learn about its ancient history. Then, your guide will take you to Mostar for some sightseeing and lunch at a local, traditional restaurant. While in the city, you’ll have time to witness the Old Bridge, bridge jumpers, mosques, museums, and wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old City. You’ll end your day with a visit to Kravice Waterfalls with plenty of time for swimming.

Of course, since this is a private tour , you’ll have the opportunity to swap Kravice Falls for a different activity such as visiting the town of Ston, famous for its oysters and mussels, before going back to Dubrovnik.

Wow wow wow. Our day in Mostar with Denis was everything we had hoped for and more. His kind heart, professionalism, storytelling, riddles, and smooth driving all made for a first class, top notch experience. If you’re looking for a unique day trip to balance out the coastline of the Adriatic, book this now! – Randy ( Read more reviews )

3. Mostar and Medjugorje Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Visit three iconic sites on this guided group tour of Bosnia & Herzegovina from Dubrovnik. On the morning of your trip, you’ll meet at the meeting point (or you can request pick-up from your hotel) and travel to the border of Croatia and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Your first stop of the day will be the UNESCO-protected village of Počitelj, where you’ll have some free time to explore the historic, oriental-Mediterranean village along the banks of the Neretva River. Afterwards, you’ll head to Medjugorje where, in 1981, six children saw the Virgin Mary appear. Since then, Medjugorje has become one of the most popular spots for Catholic pilgrimage in the world. Finally, your tour will end in the Old City of Mostar, where your guide will walk you through town while sharing the unique history of the divided town (one half is Christian and the other half is Muslim). While in Mostar, be sure to enjoy a traditional Turkish coffee and sample the local delicacy, cevapcici!

Drive to Mostar from Dubrovnik

Renting a car is the quickest and most efficient way to get to Mostar from Dubrovnik.

The distance from Dubrovnik to Mostar is 131.5 kilometers, with the journey taking roughly 2.5 hours. Again, the Dubrovnik to Mostar drive can vary depending on your travel conditions.

There are three routes you can take to get to from Dubrovnik to Mostar by car, so you will have a bit of flexibility; if there is traffic on one, take the other! 

Once you arrive in Mostar by car, you will have to park outside of the old town since the city is completely pedestrianized. Unlike parking in Dubrovnik , there are plenty of lots just outside the city, so you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a space.

Mostar parking lots basically surround the town, so have a quick look in advance to find the one closest to the sites you want to see (or if you are staying the night, the one closest to your accommodation, so you don’t need to haul your luggage too far!). 

Bus to Mostar From Dubrovnik

If you do not want to take an organized tour with a guide and a group or prefer not to rent a car, you also have the option of taking a bus from Dubrovnik to Mostar . However, you should know that taking the Dubrovnik Mostar bus is a long journey due to stops, traffic, and special border checks for busses.

The travel time is usually around 3 hours, but it may be up to 6 hours depending on the time of year, the time of day, and the border conditions. So if you want to take the Dubrovnik to Mostar bus just for the day, keep in mind that you could be spending many hours on the bus.

If you are spending at least one night in Mostar, then this option will be the most economically friendly, with one-way tickets costing around 20 USD. 

Mostar is pretty small and is a heavily pedestrianized city. So if you are taking the bus, you’ll be pleased to know the bus station is just outside of Mostar Old Town. You should be able to walk to your accommodation fairly quickly from here.

I always use FlixBus for the cheapest and most convenient way to travel around the region. Bonus is that their buses are clean and have free Wi-Fi!

Things to Do in Mostar

Whether you prefer perusing the markets, learning the history of the old town, or enjoying the views from the ancient bridge, Mostar is a quaint city that is easy to explore in just one day. Below you’ll find plenty of Mostar things to do!

Walk Across Stari Most Bridge

This famous bridge is the landmark of Mostar and has been seen in photographs and videos shared around the world. The town itself gets its name from this famous bridge that crosses over the Neretva River. Stari Most has been recently reconstructed since the devastation the war brought to Mostar in the 1990s.

In July each year, there is an annual bridge jumping competition that has been occurring for over 450 years. Spectators gather on the bridge and on the river bank below to watch the daring jumpers fly from this 20 meter (66 feet) bridge.

But don’t get any ideas, jumping from this bridge is only for professionals since it’s quite a far fall and the water below is a fast moving, freezing cold, river. 

Wander Through The Old Bazaar Kujundziluk 

Enjoy the reminiscent Ottoman ambiance of this traditional-style market, selling a variety of colorful scarves and clothing, Turkish-style rugs, copper and metal trinkets, spices, and more. Here you can also find Turkish restaurants and small cafe bars to stop for lunch or just a quick refreshment.

This small center in the city held up surprisingly well during the war era and remains to be one of the oldest corners of Mostar. Browse through the endless array of goods while strolling through the cobbled streets and witness the blend of cultures that make up the marketplace.

Good to know: The currency in Mostar is officially the Convertible Mark (KM). However, the Euro is widely accepted.

Visit Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and Climb the Minaret

The most famous mosque in Mostar, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, is definitely worth a visit when wandering through the Old City. You’ll have to cover your shoulders to enter, so it’s a good idea to have a shawl. Alternatively, you can get one at the entrance.

Admire the interior of the 17th-century mosque, decorated in murals and a beautiful, oriental carpet. The real highlight of visiting this mosque are the views of Mostar from the minaret that towers over the Old City. Climb up the narrow, winding staircase to witness the Old Bridge and gorgeous surrounding area from the top of the minaret (it’s worth the 89 steps!).

It’s a good idea to try and get there early in the morning to beat the crowds of visitors and be the first one at the top.

Relax Along the Neretva River Bank

If you’re in need of a break after a busy morning of traveling and exploring, take a load off down by the Neretva River bank.

During the summertime, it may be tempting to jump fully in the water, but be aware this is a swift moving river and its icy cold! Even in the summer months this river never fully warms up. So it’s best suited for wadding in and just going up to your knees, maybe splashing a bit of water on you to help cool down. 

If you’re traveling on a budget, you can always grab some food from the market and have a nice little afternoon picnic by the waterside. There are a few areas to lay out along the rocks here just below the Stari Most bridge.

If you’re traveling at the end of July and want to watch the bridge jumping competition, it’s a great idea to bring a few snacks and bottles of water and stake out a spot down here early to beat the crowds that will flock to watch the jumpers.

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Visit the War Photo Exhibition

If you’re intrigued by history and are interested in learning more about the turbulent past of Mostar, pop by the Mostar War Photo Exhibition.

The exhibition is actually inside of the western tower that stands over the Stari Most bridge, so it’s a great opportunity to explore the inside of the tower. The exhibition is home to 50 influential wartime photographs that will give you some insight to the war in this region.

Get Lost in the Alleys of Old Town Mostar

No trip to Mostar is complete without an aimless stroll through Mostar Old Town. Mostar itself is not too big, it’s easy to see the whole old town in an afternoon.

Walk around the cobbled streets and enjoy the Ottoman-Anglo architecture. Some corners of the city are filled with the scent of Shisha and colored with elaborate rugs and colorful fabrics for sale, while some corners of the city are reminiscent of old English villages with stone pebble bridges and quaint cottages.

While wandering the city streets, don’t forget to stop somewhere for a traditional Turkish coffee! If you’re hungry, be sure to sit down at one of the many restaurants to enjoy some local cuisine.

My favorite place is Restoran Sadrvan , which has a really cool atmosphere and large portion sizes of traditional local fare. You can sit outside on their pretty patio, or duck inside to enjoy the Ottoman-style interior.

Go on a Walking Tour

If you’re traveling to Mostar by bus or car to explore on your own, I highly recommend taking a guided walking tour of the Old City .

Although the town is small, it is packed with history and interesting facts that you would be hard pressed to learn on your own. You can opt to tour Mostar with a private walking tour of the city or small group tour guided by a professional, local guide.

Visit the Museum of War and Genocide Victims

If you have extra time in the city or are interested in learning more about Mostar’s turbulent past, then a visit to the Museum of War and Genocide Victims should be on your list.

This museum explains the events that happened during the war from 1992 to 1995 (something that is not normally taught in history books, especially in the USA, yet so recent).

The exhibit displays personal belongings, photographs, and statements of victims, giving visitors an unfiltered look at the horrific events that took place just 30 years ago. The museum is quite moving and can be visited just outside the Old City.

You can purchase your ticket online before you go .

Things to Do Near Mostar

If you are driving to Mostar, you will have the perfect opportunity to explore some of the surrounding hidden gems outside of the city. If you are on an organized tour, it is likely that you may stop by one or two of these sites.

However, if you do have your own car you will have the freedom to determine how long you want to spend at each place and where you want to go specifically.

Kravice Waterfalls 

This hidden oasis is not to be missed and could be considered the little sister to Plitvice in Croatia. Blue-green pools met by crystal cascading falls pouring over lush green foliage, it’s a sight to see!

The best part about Kravice Falls? You can actually go for a swim under the waterfalls (unlike at Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park ).

So bring your suit and take a dip in the pools here, if you dare to submerge in the icy cold water! It sure is fresh, even if you are traveling on a hot day so just keep that in mind before getting shocked when you jump all the way in. 

Most day tours to Mostar will make a stop here, but of course if you do want the freedom to stay as long as you please, then visiting by car is the best choice.

Visit the Village of Počitelj

This sleepy village is located just 30 minutes away from Mostar and looks like it genuinely has popped out of a child’s storybook.

Lying on the banks of the emerald green Neretva River, Pocitelj was strategically important in historic war times and today is still home to an old military citadel, fortified walls, and a watch tower. Of course the village itself is incredibly quaint and picturesque, you may find the sudden urge to skip down the cobbled streets with a basket of baked goods singing Disney songs.

Be warned though – the village has lots and lots of stairs, so it’s a smart idea to wear flat comfortable shoes when exploring Pocitelj. Also, don’t let its size fool you! Although the town may seem tiny (with only about 800 inhabitants), it is easy to get lost there.

Blagaj Tekija (The Dervish House)

Just 20 minutes by car from Mostar, you’ll find the captivating village of Blagaj – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that will leave you spellbound.

Home to an ancient Dervish monastery built into the side of a cliff base overlooking an aquamarine pool, the unique setting and architecture is worth the quick trip itself!

You can also go inside the Ottoman-era monastery for a small fee, but know that you’ll be asked to remove your shoes and cover up before entering.

Blagaj is a great place for a pit stop on your way in or on your way out from Mostar to Dubrovnik. If you have a little more flexibility in your schedule, you can sit down at one of the restaurants along the Buna River and browse the souvenir shops.

Where to Stay in Mostar

With all of the incredible sites to see both in, and around, Mostar, an overnight stay is an excellent way to make sure you have time to soak it all in. If your schedule allows, I recommend spending the night for a much more immersive experience in this truly unique destination.

The Old City really comes to life in the evening, and it’s much more comfortable to explore during this time (especially when visiting in the summer) as it can get quite hot! So if you’re not in a rush to get back to Dubrovnik, here are a few accommodation options in Mostar:

Villa Gunga Situated just a 2-minute walk from Old Bridge Mostar, this accommodation offers a great location for exploring the Old City. The apartments offer comfy beds, private bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, and some units even feature a balcony overlooking the Neretva River and the town of Mostar.

Shangri La Mansion Perfect for anyone who wants a little luxury without breaking the bank, this property is set within the UNESCO-protected town of Mostar. Each room is modern, beautifully decorated, and includes all of the amenities you need for a comfortable stay. Guests particularly love the rooftop terrace that offers jaw-dropping views of the town.

Hotel Pasha : A beautiful, four-star property located just a 10-minute walk away from the Old Bridge. This hotel offers a spa with a sauna, delicious breakfast included in the room rate, and some rooms even feature a balcony with a view of the Old Town.

Mostar to Dubrovnik Day Trip Packing List

Make sure you don’t forget these items on your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip!

• Passport – You’ll be crossing the border from Croatia into Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is not part of the European Union. So make sure you have your passport before you depart Dubrovnik!
• Reusable water bottle – This is an absolute essential if you are traveling in the summer, as temperatures can get crazy hot.
• Portable charger – It will be a long day, especially if you are taking a group tour. Stay connected and make sure you have enough battery for taking photos with a portable charger.
• Sunscreen – Mostar is one of the sunniest destinations in the region, so you’ll definitely want some sunscreen!
• Backpack – Or small bag where you can store all of your belongings (and water bottle) for the day.

Can you do a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar?

Absolutely! Mostar is one of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik.

How far is Mostar from Dubrovnik?

Mostar is only a 2.5 hour drive away from Dubrovnik. Your travel time may vary depending on whether or not you choose to drive from Dubrovnik to Mostar or take the bus.

Is Mostar worth a day trip?

Yes! Mostar is such a unique town rich in history and culture, making it a fantastic day trip from Dubrovnik.

How do I get from Dubrovnik to Mostar?

The best option for getting to Mostar from Dubrovnik is to take a bus or organized tour.

How much time do you need in Mostar?

One day is the perfect amount of time to explore Mostar.

Can you drink alcohol in Mostar?

Although Mostar has a large Muslim population, alcohol is still served in many of the cafes and restaurants in the Old City.

Final Thoughts: Why you Must Take a Mostar Day Trip from Dubrovnik

One of the many joys of Europe is the freedom to move easily across the borders and experience an entirely different country and culture in a matter of hours from wherever you are in Europe.

So when it comes to Dubrovnik day trips, Bosnia & Herzegovina is so close to the Croatian border that it’s the perfect opportunity to explore this incredible country!

Before you go. ..check out these other awesome day trips from Dubrovnik .

Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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Day Trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik – The Ultimate Guide

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and have some extra time to spare, why not take an exciting adventure into Bosnia and Herzegovina? Taking a day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik will be filled with spectacular scenery, fascinating history, delicious local cuisine and iconic monuments.

Mostar is a charming little town nestled in a scenic valley along the Neretva River surrounded by mountains. The town dates back to the 15th century and retains many of its Ottoman-era features, most notably the Stari Most Bridge.

Seeing all of the highlights of Mostar is possible to do in a day trip however there are plenty of activities and beautiful sites to keep you busy for longer. The town offers many great restaurants, cafes and sites surrounding it that you could easily spend a few days there.

We recently included Mostar as a stop on our Balkans road trip itinerary and really enjoyed having the extra time to see the town before and after the rush of the day trippers. Having visited Mostar a few years ago on a day trip from Dubrovnik, we knew that we would have to return one day and spend longer to truly experience the magic of this town.

After several visits to Mostar over the years, I’ve put together this detailed guide to help you plan the ideal day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik. Whether you wish to venture into Bosnia yourself or book an organised day trip, continue reading to find some useful tips and info to help you make the most of your day.

Table of Contents

Day Trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik – The Perfect Day Trip to Mostar Itinerary

How to travel to mostar from dubrovnik.

Rental Car – The best option for doing a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip on your own is to rent a car and drive there yourself. This makes it much easier to travel at your own pace and make any desired stops along the way. Having a rental car also makes it possible to spend a night in Mostar if your schedule allows for it.

If you’re wondering what stops to make and how to plan the perfect day trip, skip ahead to the section on “Things to see on a day trip to Mostar”. For those who prefer to simplify things and book an organised tour, read on to find the best tours to Mostar from Dubrovnik.

On our most recent trip to Mostar, we spent a few nights there as a stop on our road trip through the Balkans. We found it really convenient to have a car as it meant we could take our time and see some additional attractions surrounding the town.

It’s always best to reserve your rental car before you go to avoid disappointment. See the link below to browse and book your car online.

→Find prices and availability for your car rental here←

Bus – If you’d prefer to travel by public bus, you can catch the Flixbus which runs daily from Dubrovnik to Mostar. The travel time for the bus is advertised at 3 hours however you should prepare for it to take much longer. Travelling across the border from Croatia to Bosnia adds quite a bit of time to the journey which brings it closer to 5 hours rather than 3.

Considering the length of time spent on the bus, I would highly recommend staying in Mostar for at least one night to make the journey worthwhile. If your itinerary is flexible, you certainly won’t regret spending more time in this lovely town.

Once the day trippers leave in the afternoon, the town becomes a much more quiet and enjoyable place to explore. Watching the sunset over the Old Bridge is a magical sight you shouldn’t miss.

The tickets for the bus to Mostar cost around €22 per person with an extra luggage fee of €1 per bag. Once you arrive in Mostar, the bus will drop you off near the Old Town. It shouldn’t take you longer than 15 minutes to walk there or take a short taxi if you have heavy luggage.

→Check the bus schedule and get your Flixbus ticket online←

Private Transfer – Skip the hassle of taking the public bus and book yourself a private transfer with hotel pick up. This option is ideal for families or those seeking a more direct route from Dubrovnik to Mostar.

→Find more info about the private transfer here←

Stari Most Bridge at sunset

The Best Dubrovnik to Mostar Tours

If you’re pressed for time and still want to see as much as possible in a single day, taking a guided tour is definitely the best way to go. There are several tours to choose from offering slightly different itineraries. See below for the highest rated day trip options from Dubrovnik to Mostar.

Mostar and Kravice Falls Small Group Tour

Starting off with the most popular full day tour to Mostar from Dubrovnik, this small group tour will give you a great intro to some of Bosnia’s most iconic landmarks. The day begins with an early morning pick up from your Dubrovnik hotel followed by a scenic drive along the Adriatic Coast passing by sweeping ocean views and cute seaside villages.

Stop for a coffee to break up the drive before crossing the Bosnian border and arriving at the amazing Kravice Falls. Enjoy some spare time to admire the falls, take some photos and hop in for a swim before continuing the day trip toward Mostar.

Once you arrive in Mostar, gain some insight into the town’s history with a guided walking tour. After that, you will have some free time to explore the town at your own pace and enjoy a traditional local meal before beginning the journey back to Dubrovnik in the afternoon.

This tour lasts for 11 hours and includes hotel pick up/drop off, transportation by minivan, knowledgeable tour guide/driver. Entrance to the waterfall is not included, be sure to bring €10 in cash to pay for your ticket.

The first time we visited Mostar on a day trip from Dubrovnik, this was the exact tour we chose and can highly recommend it based on our own fantastic experience and memories made!

➤Find more info about tour prices and availability here

The stunning Kravice Falls

Pocitelj, Medjugorje, and Mostar Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Discover the sites and history of three charming Bosnian towns on this informative full day trip from Dubrovnik. After morning departure from Dubrovnik, the first stop of the day will be at the historic town of Pocitelj. Take a wander through the 15th century streets, admiring the stunning river views as you go.

The next stop of the day will be in Medjugorje, a small village known as a Catholic pilgrim destination since 1981. Stop here to see the famous religious site before carrying on to Mostar in the afternoon. Upon arrival in Mostar, take a guided walking tour of the Old Town and learn about the region’s rich history from your experienced local guide.

Marvel at the structure of the Old Bridge and enjoy some free time to explore the narrow streets, browsing the colourful shops and cafes. The tour lasts for 12 hours and includes hotel pick up/drop off transportation by bus, knowledgeable tour guide/driver, lunch is not included in the ticket price.

Mostar, Pocitelj and Kravice Falls Private Tour from Dubrovnik

Maximise your day trip to Mostar on a personalized private tour by small air-conditioned vehicle. Your guide/chauffeur will pick you up from your Dubrovnik hotel to begin the day. This tour is ideal for groups of up to 4 people making it perfect for families or small groups of friends travelling together.

The first stop of your day trip will be at the stunning Kravice Falls where you’ll have some free time to go for a swim. Next up will be a short visit to the medieval town of Pocitelj for a chance to explore the town and take in the lovely scenery.

The final stop of the day on this highly rated tour will bring you to the picturesque town of Mostar. Enjoy 3 hours there to have lunch at a local restaurant, take a walk around the town, and check out the shops. Your guide will take you through the history of Bosnia with plenty of stories and interesting facts throughout the day.

Browse Mostar’s colourful shops

Best Time of Year for a Day Trip to Mostar

Taking a day trip to Mostar is one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik and the most popular time of year to visit is during the summer months of July – August. This is when you can expect hot temperatures of 30+ degrees and large crowds of tourists.

Both times I visited Mostar were at the height of peak season in July. The temperatures were scorching hot (35+ degrees) and the crowds of people were thick.

For nice weather and minimal crowds I would advise planning your day trip to Mostar in Spring (May – June) or Autumn (September – October). Of course the chances of rain during these times is slightly higher but in general the temperatures are pleasant and the town is much quieter.

The Colourful History of Mostar

The Old Town that you see today has been shaped by centuries of war and conflict. Mostar’s history dates as far back as the 15th century when the town was under rule of the Ottoman Empire. Much of its original buildings remain from this era despite the fact that many of them had been rebuilt due to conflict in recent years.

Through the Austro-Hungarian period of the 19th and 20th centuries, the town continued to develop and expand with the addition of churches and contemporary European buildings.

During the civil war of the early 90’s, the town suffered significant damage to some of its historic features. The Stari Most Bridge was unfortunately hit hard by bombings and had to be reconstructed in 2004. Once the bridge was completed, it became recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Evidence of the Bosnian war can be seen to this day in the form of bullet holes in buildings around both the old and new cities. If you take a walking tour of Mostar , your local guide will give you more in depth stories and facts about this challenging time in Bosnian history.

Thanks to its colourful past, Mostar is now home to a number of religions (Catholic, Orthodox, Islamic and Jewish) all co-existing together in peace. As you explore the town, take note of the mosques and churches on either side of the Neretva River yet still located within close proximity of one another.

There are few places in the world where you’ll see such a diverse blend of cultures and ethnicities, making Mostar an incredibly unique and special place.

Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip Packing List

• Passport – This is an essential item that you can’t forget on this day trip!
• Day pack – You’ll need this to carry all your belongings for the day.
• Good walking shoes – This day trip will involve a fair amount of walking so make sure you have some comfortable shoes.
• Portable charger – It will be a long day and there will be many stunning scenes to capture so make sure your phone is fully charged.
• Reusable water bottle – Make sure to stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Sunglasses – You’ll be spending a lot of the day outdoors so make sure to protect your eyes from the harsh sun.
• Sunscreen – As mentioned above, the sun is pretty unforgiving here especially if you visit during high season!
• Fast drying towel – For those who might want to take a dip at Kravice Falls or in the Neretva River in Mostar, make sure to bring a swimsuit and a quick drying towel.

Things to See on a Day Trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik – The Perfect One Day Mostar Itinerary

Whether it’s on a day trip from Dubrovnik or included on your Balkans road trip, the below itinerary will guide you through the must-see highlights of a day trip to Mostar.

I would advise leaving as early in the morning as possible in order to see all the below stops and still have enough time to enjoy yourself at each one.

Kravice Falls

The first stop to make after leaving Dubrovnik will be the incredibly beautiful Kravice Falls. These falls are easily one of the most popular attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, seeing hundreds of visitors per day during high season.

There is a good reason for their popularity, these pristine cascading falls and the lush scenery that surrounds them provide the ultimate place to cool down on a hot summer’s day. Be warned though, even on the warmest of days (35+ degrees), the water here is still extremely cold.

The first time we visited Kravice Falls, Rick braved the cold water for a refreshing swim and I opted to admire them from the shore. There are a number of little restaurants and cafes nearby for those who prefer to take in the scenery without getting wet.

Keep in mind that the falls are open to the public daily between the months of May – October but are closed during the winter season. Tickets cost €10 per person and must be paid in cash. If you decide to join a tour, make sure to bring cash with you as it’s usually not included in the tour price.

Ticket Price – €10 (20 KM)

Opening Hours – 7am – 8:30pm daily (May – October)

The second stop on your day trip to Mostar will be the walled Ottoman village of Počitelj. Located in a picturesque setting along the banks of the Neretva River, this little gem of a town is home to some lovely historic buildings and stunning natural scenery.

Počitelj dates back to the 15th century and features a beautiful blend of Ottoman and medieval architecture. During the Autstro-Hungarian period in the 19th century, the town lost importance and its buildings began to fall into disrepair. During the Bosnian civil war, the town suffered even more damage. Evidence of deterioration can be seen as you make your way through the streets.

Due to its unique history and extensive damage to the ancient buildings, Počitelj was classified as one of the world’s 100 most endangered cultural heritage sites. It has even been added to the list of Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Sites .

The town itself is pretty small and can be seen in around 30 minutes. Take a stroll through the steep winding streets, it’s easy to get lost in the maze of narrow alleys. Be sure to climb to the top of the citadel (fortress) for the most impressive view over the town and river below.

Beautiful views in Počitelj

Private Mostar Walking Tour

Taking a walking tour of Mostar is the best way to learn the town’s history and gain appreciation for the hardships that the locals have faced in recent years. Allow a local guide to show you around the highlights of the town on this comprehensive Mostar walking tour.

Beginning at the iconic Old Bridge, your guide will take you on a walk through Mostar’s history stopping at several mosques, bridges and points of interest along the way.

This private walking tour operates at many different times throughout the day so it can easily be worked into your schedule. Book your walking tour online to secure your spot before you arrive in town.

Take in the picturesque scenes of Mostar on a private walking tour

Mostar Old Town

You can really feel the fusion of cultures and religions as you wander the maze of Mostar’s narrow streets. Colourful Turkish shops selling everything from lamps and carpets to teapots and beautiful fabrics line the cobbled streets giving the town a real exotic, middle eastern vibe.

Walking the streets of Mostar truly feels like taking a step back in time to a completely different century. The sights, the smells, and the unique culture offers the closest thing to time travel in my opinion. Mostar is one of those special places that really left a lasting impression on me and it’s safe to say that it’s only a matter of time before I return.

The Old Town of Mostar is pretty compact and can be easily explored by foot in a short amount of time. This is the perfect place to browse the little shops and pick up a unique souvenir to take a piece of Mostar home with you. Make sure to find a nice restaurant for lunch or dinner where you can take in the views while tasting the traditional local cuisine.

My personal recommendation for the best place to eat in Mostar is Restaurant Lagero, I had several meals there and can’t recommend it enough. The staff was very friendly, the food/wine was great, everything was reasonably priced and the views were amazing. Ask to be seated on their outdoor terrace for unbeatable views of the Neretva River and Old Bridge.

Wine with a view at Restaurant Lagero

Stari Most – Old Bridge

This fantastic example of Ottoman engineering makes the Stari Most (Old Bridge) one of Bosnia’s most famous landmarks. People travel from far and wide to witness the charming scene of the bridge and its two towers connecting both sides of Mostar’s Old Town.

Although the Old Bridge was originally built in the 1566, the structure that stands today has been restored to its previous state in 2004. After being destroyed in the war, the bridge and many other buildings of Mostar’s Old Town were completely reconstructed to match their original Ottoman era state.

As you walk across the Stari Most, you’ll find some of the best views in town. The scene of the colourful buildings and mosque on the banks of the emerald green Neretva River against a mountainous backdrop is certain to take your breathe away. Bear in mind that the bridge is pretty steep and slippery so it’s important to wear proper shoes!

Watch the locals jumping from the Old Bridge

While you sit and relax taking in the view of the Old Bridge from the riverbank or perhaps a local restaurant, you’ll likely witness the bridge jumpers. At any given time of day, local bridge jumpers will collect money from tourists standing on the bridge and make the leap into the icy cold waters below. This is a tradition that has been ongoing for hundreds of years and it’s an impressive thing to watch!

You can’t visit Mostar without finding the best photography spots in town to capture the Stari Most. My personal favourite spots were from either side of the Neretva riverbank. To get that picture perfect Instagram angle, head across the bridge until you arrive at the side of the river where you can see the old mosque.

Continue walking through the Old Town until you reach the street called Marsala Tita. Turn right immediately and then make another right to follow a narrow cobbled path all the way to the riverbank. You’ll come across a diving board and a small platform which offers the perfect angle to take a photo from. See this link for a rough estimate of how to find this prime photography location.

The best Instagram spot in Mostar

Neretva River

For those who wish to swim in the Neretva River, this is possible (many people do) but be warned that the water is very cold year round. It may look inviting after a hot and sweaty day of sightseeing but be sure to check the temperature before you decide to jump in!

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

The Koki Mehmed Pasha Mosque is yet another incredible work of Ottoman architecture dating to the early 17th century. This stunning mosque sits on the banks of the Neretva River and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Mostar. The inside of the mosque is fairly basic and small however it’s the view from the minaret that makes it worth a visit.

Don’t miss out witnessing the most breath taking panoramic view over Mostar, the Neretva River and surrounding countryside from the top of the minaret. This viewpoint can be accessed by climbing a very steep and narrow spiral staircase. Those who are claustrophobic may want to give this one a miss.

Aim to climb the minaret early in the morning to avoid the crowds in such a tight space. It costs €3 per person to enter the mosque and it’s worth mentioning that you should dress appropriately with shoulders and legs covered before entering.

View of Koki Mehmed Pasha Mosque from the Stari Most Bridge

Spending Longer Than One Day in Mostar?

Blagaj Tekke – The Dervish House

The Dervish House is a 16th century Turkish monastery nestled within a cliff in a scenic spot next to the Buna River. It’s only a 20 minute drive from Mostar and definitely worthy of a visit as the history and scenery here is pretty special.

It may be too much to include on a single day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik. However if you’re planning to spend a few days in the area, it makes an easy day trip from Mostar.

You can either choose to enter the Dervish House to see the rooms decorated with brightly coloured carpets or head straight for the viewing area (this is free by the way). Simply cross the bridge to the other side of the river and follow a short path to take in the stunning view of the monastery, river and cliffs.

After reading reviews of the Dervish House, we decided to skip the €5 entrance ticket and just admire it from the outside. The rooms are said to be pretty basic with nothing much to see on the inside. For those interested, you can take a short boat ride into the nearby cave for a few Bosnian Marks.

There are a number of cute restaurants surrounding the river which provide a perfect spot to have some lunch or a drink and take in your surroundings.

Blagaj Tekke, Dervish House

Museum of War and Genocide Victims

Learn about the unfortunate events that took place during the Bosnian War by reading first hand accounts of the victims who survived. It’s a small museum offering plenty of stories and information about the horrors of the early 90’s war.

This museum is a must if you have some extra time to spend in Mostar. The photos and displays are quite moving and give you an unfiltered look into this horrible time in Bosnian history.

It’s located just outside of the Old Town and can be easily reached in a 10 minute walk. Save yourself time and purchase your ticket to the Museum of War and Genocide Victims online before you go.

Where to Stay in Mostar

As I mentioned before, Mostar is such a unique place that really comes to life in the evening. There are many great restaurants offering stunning views to enjoy your dinner and a glass of wine. Not to mention, the sunset views are pretty epic there too.

If you don’t feel like rushing back to Dubrovnik in the evening, below are some highly reviewed and well located accommodation options to choose from. Make sure to book your room ahead of time during high season as the best rooms will likely be taken if left too late.

Villa Cardak – Centrally located only steps from the Old Bridge, these clean and well kept rooms offer the perfect base to explore the highlights of Mostar.

Apartments Arch – For a very reasonable price, book yourself a fully equipped apartment with a kitchen and a terrace. These apartments are conveniently located less than a 10 minute walk from the Old Bridge.

Residence Riverside – Another great option with excellent reviews located near the heart of the Old Town. With friendly hosts, a full kitchen, balcony and free parking you can’t go wrong with choosing to stay here!

→ Browse more accommodation options in Mostar ←

Stop for lunch at one of the restaurants near Blagaj Tekke

Do You Need Travel Insurance For Your Day Trip to Mostar?

While Bosnia is generally considered a safe country for tourists, travelling to any country without insurance is not worth the risk. The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.

For peace of mind while abroad,  Heymondo  is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and basic medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered.

As a reader of The Road Is Life, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance by using the link below!

►Get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance◄

Read More Balkans Travel Guides

• How to Travel from Sarajevo to Mostar – Complete Guide
• Albania Road Trip – The Ultimate One Week Itinerary

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

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Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip – Everything you need to know

As soon as we booked our trip to Dubrovnik , I knew that I wanted to take the opportunity to do a day trip to Mostar. Bosnia and Herzegovina has always been high on my list of places to visit as I have always been fascinated by the history, and natural beauty I have heard so much about. And so we went about searching for how to do a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip. Due to time constraints we booked an organised tour and this guide gives you all the information you need to know about planning your own Mostar day trip.

Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip – Factsheet

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Country : Croatia

Languages Spoken : Croatian but English is widely spoken

Currency: Croatian Kuna

Country : Bosnia and Herzegovina

Languages Spoken : Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, and many people also speak English

Currency : Bosnian Mark

So there are ways to get to Mostar from Dubrovnik on public transport, the main way being via bus. But if you are planning a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip then realistically your best option is to book an organised tour. The trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar alone is about 3 hours, and on top of that you have to cross the border between Croatia and Bosnia a number of times. We opted for an organised tour which we booked through Get your Guide . By booking this tour a lot of the stress is taken out of your hands. All you need to do is sit back, relax, and watch the world go by.

The border crossing process between Croatia and Bosnia is relatively hassle free. Although I should note that our experience is based on crossing the border as part of an organised tour. I cannot comment on the process if you are crossing the border alone. We pulled up in the bus, handed our passports to our tour guide, who then took these to be processed by the border guards.

Another thing I should mention is that on our tour all passport holders were either part of the EU or British. I’m not sure what the protocol or visa requirements are for other countries.

The tour we booked was a small group tour so in total there were only about 14 of us. The bus picked us up from our hotel in the morning, and dropped us back off in the evening. All in all we were gone for about 10-11 hours so be prepared for a full day spent away from Dubrovnik. During the drive the tour guide provides you with information about the history of Croatia and Bosnia as well as the best things to do at each stop. The general outline of the day is as follows:

Morning hotel pick up

Drive about 2 hours then stop for a quick comfort break

Visit the Kravica Falls

Stop off in Mostar for lunch and exploration at your own pace. This also includes a guided tour.

Stop off at the medieval town of Počitelj.

Head back to Dubrovnik and get dropped off at your hotel.

Here are some of our top tips before setting off on your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip.

• Bring some cash with you on your trip especially as you will only be able to pay cash for the Kravica Waterfalls
• Bosnia has a different currency to Croatia, but the Croatian Kuna is accepted in Bosnia
• Not all places in Bosnia accept credit card hence the importance of having cash
• When shopping in Mostar not all prices are fixed- you can haggle (although we are so terrible at this)
• Tip your tour guide at the end of the trip
• Bring your passport (and covid vaccination certificate if applicable) and check visa requirements before entering Bosnia
• Bosnia is a predominately Muslim country so be aware that not all restaurants offer alcohol and be respectful of the religion
• Be mindful of some of the beggars particularly in tourist areas and just watch your belongings
• Mostar is generally pretty safe and a great place to visit so have fun!

The first proper stop on our Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip was Kravica Falls. You do need to pay for entry (10 Euros) and your tour guide will collect this on the bus from you before you arrive. Make sure you bring cash for this. In the carpark there are a number of little shops and cafes selling refreshments (although we visited at the beginning of tourist season so most were closed).

Once you arrive you take a 10 minute walk down to the falls. The paths are decent although do make sure you wear some proper shoes.The falls are really beautiful and you can go swimming here in the summer months. Do take your time and enjoy them and give yourself at least 10 minutes walking time to get back up to the carpark.

When we visited the falls, they hadn’t quite opened up for swimming yet, but just a few tips if you do visit in the summer months. It is really slippery on the rocks around the falls, so do be careful. Also, the water here gets surprisingly deep, pretty fast. If you are not a strong swimmer stick to the shore. Finally we are told that the water can be quite cold, even in the summer months, so take your time and let your body adjust to avoid shock.

The real highlight of our Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip was obviously arriving in Mostar. We started by going on a guided tour of the cobbled streets and sometimes bullet ridden buildings. Our guide was fantastic, and his memories and thoughts of the war were a big part of the tour.

I don’t know what I expected from Mostar but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful it is. Particularly in the Old Town there are so many cobbled streets, enchanting buildings, and so many exotic stalls selling colourful souvenirs.

The Mostar Bridge is one of the most recognisable attractions in the city. It was destroyed in the war but has since been rebuilt and once again draws in tourists as well as daredevils looking to jump off. At the end of the bridge there is a coffee shop located up a set of stairs. If you walk in you will find yourself in a beautifully decorated room where you can order some authentic Bosnian coffee. Made on a small stove you need to make sure you drink it slowly and allow the coffee plenty of time to settle. It is definitely strong stuff but an experience in itself in Mostar.

We were also fortunate enough to grab some lunch in Mostar. This is not included in your tour so you do have a choice of where to eat. Our tour guide recommended a place called Hindin Han, claiming that it was where all the locals ate. I’m always skeptical when recommended places by tour guides, but this place was spot on. The food was incredible. To the point where we are still raving about it long after the trip has ended. They also take card payments, and serve alcohol which not all places do. If you are doing a day trip to Mostar we absolutely recommend eating here at some point.

The final stop on our Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip was Počitelj, a historical village located a short distance from Mostar. We didn’t have too long to spend here, which was fine because it is only a small village. It was great to explore the winding cobbled footpaths, and in particular the Mosque which takes a bit of climbing to get to but so worth it.

• Travel documents including Covid documents, passports etc.
• Water bottle
• Sun cream, sunglasses – it tends to get warm in Mostar
• Swimming costume – If you plan to take a dip at the waterfalls
• Comfortable footwear – you will do a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.

If you are wondering why you should do a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip here are some reasons:

• It’s a wonderful break from the tourist heavy Dubrovnik
• It’s a unique part of Europe that you have to see to believe
• You will get an invaluable history lesson

A Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip provides you with a really good amount of time to explore Mostar and some other hidden gems in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Croatia is a relatively easy country to travel too, with a number of European and international flights landing in Split and Dubrovnik. From here it’s easy to book a tour to Mostar.

In an ideal world, you want more than just a couple of hours to explore Mostar, but if you are limited due to time then these organised Dubrovnik to Mostar day trips really are worth it. If time is no issue, then realistically we would want to spend a good 2-3 days exploring Mostar and beyond.

The good news about planning your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip is that it’s not that expensive. The biggest cost will be the tour itself. This will cost €50 upwards. It all depends on whether you want to go a large or small group tour. We recommend a small group tour, just because it is a bit more personalised.

Apart from this cost you will need to pay entry to the Kravica Falls of €10 per person – make sure you bring cash for this.

The rest of your spending money will depend on what you plan to do in Mostar, but this shouldn’t set you back a great deal. We had a large lunch with wine that cost us under €20 for two. Souvenirs are also cheap which is another bonus.

We do recommend tipping your tour guide which is an additional cost of €5 -€10.

So is a day trip to Mostar and beyond worth it? For us it really was and it was an almost surreal moment. The war has really shaped the country but the strength and ability to rebuilt is truly inspirational. It has certainly inspired us to see more of the country, as well as the Balkans. For something a bit different or to break up your Croatian beach holiday a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar is something we highly recommend.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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The 4 best ways to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar

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How to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar is something that many tourists ask when on holiday in the pearl of the Adriatic. As beautiful as Dubrovnik is, there are some great day trips from Dubrovnik that can be taken. A Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip is one of the most popular.

In this article, we will talk about the options available and those not available. Dubrovnik to Mostar train, bus, car and organized tour are the options. Mostar is famous for its old town and Stari Mostar Bridge. There would not be too many people in the world who have not seen the famous bridge jumper who plunges into the blue waters below even if it is only on the TV.

Tours to Mostar from Dubrovnik

If public transport or the driving option doesn’t suit you an organized Mostar tour from Dubrovnik is your best bet. There are many Dubrovnik Mostar tours daily. Some of the positives of going on an organized tour can be:

• You will have a guide that will keep you informed on your Dubrovnik to Mostar tour
• Entry tickets to the sights are usually included
• One price for everything
• An organized tour of the sights when you visit Mostar and usually some spots along the way

Find below information and booking details for some great Dubrovnik day trips to Mostar.

Mostar tour from Dubrovnik – Full-Day Trip to Mostar

After departure from Dubrovnik, you will take a short break on the Dubrovnik bridge for some scenic photography of the town. Continue along the Adriatic coast while learning about the various sites that you encounter along your route.

In Pocitelj you will have an opportunity for sightseeing and free time. Pocitelj is a beautiful cultural and historical site featuring structures from the 15th century.

Continuing to Medjugorje you will have more time for sightseeing and discovery. Medjugorje is a spiritual and religious site and is one of the most famous pilgrim destinations in the Catholic world.

Then going to Mostar where you have the chance to visit the Mosque of Mostar, a Turkish house, and many other monuments in the town on your day trip to Bosnia from Dubrovnik.

Tour Highlights when Visiting Mostar

• Discover the historic structures at Pocitelj
• Visit Medjugorje, a popular pilgrim destination
• A guided tour of Mostar
• Rating 4.3 / 5 on over 280 reviews

What is included in your day trip from Dubrovnik to Medjugorje and Mostar

• Air-conditioned Vehicle
• English speaking driver
• Local guide in Mostar

Book this tour! ↗

Search other mostar tours ↗.

Mostar and Kravice waterfalls tour from Dubrovnik

This tour starts with departure from Dubrovnik, before stopping at the Kravica Waterfalls. The water cascades over a series of steps, creating a 120-meter-wide are of waterfalls. The highest single drop at Kravica Waterfalls is around 25 meters high. Stuff in Mostar to see on the tour, Mostar. This town is famous for its historic UNESCO-protected Old Bridge (Stari Most) over the Neretva River.

During your 3-hour visit to Mostar, you will enjoy a walking tour of the old city and have free time to relax and explore on your own. After taking time to discover Mostar and sip some traditional Turkish coffee, you can go shopping in Mostar Old Town, if you’re lucky watch people jumping from the bridge or grab something to eat. There are plenty of things to do in Mostar.

Tour Highlights

• Guided tour of the old city of Mostar
• 45 minutes at Kravice Waterfalls
• Duration 10.5 hours
• Rating 4.8/5 from reviews

What is included in this tour from Dubrovnik

• Hotel pickup/drop-off
• Transportation

Book this Mostar and waterfall tour ↗

Search things to do in dubrovnik ↗, bus dubrovnik mostart option..

The travel distance from Dubrovnik to Mostar is about 140 km, which equals a travelling time by bus of roughly 3 hours. The route follows the Adriatic coast to Opuzen from where it continues via Metkovic to Mostar.

From Dubrovnik, there are a few daily buses to Mostar, this can vary from summer to winter. At the time of writing (01/22) there are up to 5 daily buses travelling between Dubrovnik and Mostar. Tickets on the Dubrovnik to Mostar bus range in price from 15 € to 35 €. Make sure to get a seat on the left side of the bus, so you can enjoy the view as you travel along the coast. Book your bus tickets today with Omio from Dubrovnik to Mostar .

Driving from Dubrovnik to Mostar

Google Maps shows a driving time of around 2 hours and 15 minutes to reach Mostar from Dubrovnik. The time it takes will depend a lot on the Dubrovnik to Mostar border crossing. In the summer months, the wait can be up to an hour, I am told.

The Dubrovnik to Mostar drive is nice and scenic with coastal views, rivers, towns, and valleys along the way. The scenery in the Balkans really is beautiful and rewarding for those that take the time to visit. From Dubrovnik to Mostar make sure you have maps installed on your phone or bring a GPS device with you for the journey. Sometimes the roads and signs in Bosnia are not so straightforward. Driving your own car or hiring a car allows you the most flexibility on this trip.

Make sure you ask the car rental company about taking the car into Bosnia. In the past, you were required to have a cross-border card. These days, that is no longer required. Some unscrupulous rental car companies will still try and charge you for this. It is not required.

There are 3 different routes one can take from Dubrovnik to Mostar. People looking to stay in Mostar for a few days should consider a private Dubrovnik to Mostar transfer for comfort and flexibility.

Dubrovnik to Mostar train options

There are no direct trains to travel from Dubrovnik and Mostar. The nearest train runs from Caplijina in Bosnia. You would need to take a 2-hour bus ride to get there before departing by train. A Dubrovnik to Mostar train is not a viable option.

A day trip to Mostar really is worth the time and money taken to experience it. Dubrovnik is a great base for exploring the coast of the Adriatic. We hope this article has given you the information you need to make your Dubrovnik day trip a success.

Getting to Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the 10th biggest city in Croatia.

Dubrovnik Airport is serviced by some of the top Airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, Austrian Airways and Air Serbia just to name a few. We recommend  MOMONDO  for your flight searches.

Dubrovnik Airport is located 15.5km for Dubrovnik City Centre. Book your airport transfer  here!

The bus from Dubrovnik airport stops at Pile Gate in front of Old Town Dubrovnik, then continues to Main Bus Station in Gruž Port.

Book a bus  to Dubrovnik from domestic and international locations

Rent a car on arrival at Dubrovnik Airport with   Auto Europe

Getting around Dubrovnik

All the areas of Dubrovnik are conveniently linked by buses that run according to the timetable, anywhere from every 10 minutes to every half hour. Many buses begin running at about 5.00 in the morning and pick up their last passengers after midnight.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has many great accommodation options from the seaside to the UNESCO Dubrovnik Old Town. From backpacker to the apartment and 5-star accommodation. Check out the map below for hotel booking and prices, alternatively, search Hotellook or Agoda for the best deals.

Dubrovnik has accommodation options for every budget from hostels, to apartments and hotels rooms

You can even charter a Yacht in Croatia and stay on it. For the best apartment options, we suggest you search the map below for great prices and locations in Dubrovnik.

Hotels in Dubrovnik generally start from around $88.00 a night for a double room 3star and increase incrementally as the luxury rating rises towards the 5-star average price of $133.00.

We hope this article inspired you to spend 1 day in Mostar on your Dubrovnik holiday. A Dubrovnik to Mostar day tour is really easy to organise and very rewarding. It will provide you with the best Mostar experience possible. For more Croatia inspiration from Wyld Family Travel click through to our Croatia page.

More travel inspiration for your trip to Europe

How to get to Auschwitz from Krakow

How to get to Sintra from Lisbon

How to get cash back on your delayed European family holiday

Author bio:

Father, husband, traveller, and chief destination manager here at Wyld Family Travel. When Mark is not discussing travel or planning travel, you will find him working in disability support. Mark is a family travel advocate, having travelled to over 45 countries with his kids from 10 months to their teenage years. You will find his work here and on other popular websites.

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13 thoughts on “The 4 best ways to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar”

Looks like a wonderful trip! I’ve been to Dubrovnik and on a road trip in Croatia, but never did it to Bosnia. Thanks for sharing a couple of good tips!

WOW the pictures look so darn gorgeous – looks like a fairytale town particularly the Mostar town. I can totally understand why it must have been tough saying goodbye to Danijela and Dragan.

An amazing read! The pictures are more than awesome. I liked the still of the Neretva river the most. Can’t wait to take a trip.

Croatia looks more beautiful with every photo in your post. The sites, the food, the people etc. It all just looks incredibly inviting. The water is also so crystal blue! Thanks for inspiring a trip there!

The places look like they leapt out straight from the pages of a fairytale. You were indeed lucky to have the trip all to yourself and enjoy the beautiful vistas in exclusivity. Would love to get there some day, can see what a great time you had. It is heartening to note that most of the places are virtually secluded.

This place is really incredible! I can totally imagine feeling the breeze and embracing the sea!

Such a peaceful and quaint place. The kind of place I would love to travel to.

We were in Dubrovnik in August last year and also took a day trip to Mostar. Like you we had a great time. Such an interesting city to explore with so much history. Unlike you though, we didn’t get a chance to get our passports stamps at the borders. Our guide told us that sometimes they just don’t do it if they think you are an obvious day tourist. Ashame for us as like you we love to get our passports stamped! But we got to see seven crazy New Zealander jumping off the bridge in Mostar. That was a true spectacle and I was really scared for their lives! I certainly wouldn’t be doing i myself!

Mostar is my hometown?

Just say if you need some more tips… Pocitelj is known by the Art colony, usualy International. Dubrovnik is delight to visit during the Summer festival Have you visit The Cave inn Mostar?! The biggest chance to see the jumps from the Olden Bridge are by the end of juli. Boys are jumping from a few other bridges but it far more dangerous and not for begginners. Split in Cristia is amazing, but try to visit some of the Islands as Hvar, Brac (with over of the most beautiful beaches in the world –

This area is definitely on our plans for next trip to Europe. Great post and saved for reference when we are in the planning stage.

Now that’s a wonderful blog post- wonderfully described and beautifully captured on lens! Počitelj looks great. In your blog post, I would have loved to know more about its heritage but overall the post is absolutely amazing!

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MOSTAR DAY TRIP

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MOSTAR DAY TRIP FROM DUBROVNIK

Explore mostar and mesmerizing kravice waterfalls.

If you think that besides Adriatic coastline there is no more natural beauties in this region, you are wrong. This tour does regular Mostar visit as a highlight of the tour with additional visit of Kravice waterfalIs. Tour starts from Dubrovnik and after picking up all the group, we drive to the north of the country, to the border with Bosnia.  From there we drive to Neum, the only small town on the coast of Bosnia and Herzegovina. After crossing the border we drive to Kravice, first sightseeing stop on our tour.  In spring this stunning mini-Niagara  how it is called by the locals,of 25m cascades pounds itself into a dramatic, steamy fury. In summer the falls themselves are less impressive but surrounding pools become shallow enough for swimming.  After visiting Kravice, we drive to Mostar to visit the old town and famous old bridge, the most important monument of oriental architecture in this town. First when we come there is a short walking tour with a local guide and after the tour free time to visit the place on your own and to enjoy local meals.  From Mostar we travel back to Dubrovnik and tour ends with complimentary drop off at your pick up location.

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Best Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip 2022

A day trip to Mostar should definitely be on your to-do list while visiting Dubrovnik! Beautiful mosques, old Ottoman townhouses, interesting museums, and breathtaking viewpoints are things that make Bosnia and Herzegovina a must-visit destination! 

Everything you need to know before going on a Mostar day trip from Dubrovnik

Here are some essential tips that might come in handy for you when traveling to Mostar from Dubrovnik. Read them all and prepare yourself for this full-day tour in the best way!

When is the best time to visit Mostar?

You won’t mistake visiting the Mostar at any time of the year, but we highly recommend you plan your visit in the springtime or late summer months. During those months, temperatures in Mostar are more comfortable. Also, you will be able to explore famous sights without crumpling with other tourists. Still, if you want to visit Mostar during summer, be prepared for very high temperatures! 

Why should you go on a Mostar day trip from Dubrovnik?

If you plan to visit Mostar while spending your vacation in Dubrovnik , we recommend you do that by going on a guided day trip. That way, you will be able to sit comfortably and relax while driving in an air-conditioned bus through the breathtaking places. Your expert tour guide will tell you all about Mostar’s rich history while you’re driving to the destination.

On this day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar , not only will you visit Mostar, but you will also be able to explore the picturesque town of Počitelj and Međjugorje – the most famous destination in the Catholic world.  

Is one day enough to explore Mostar?

One day might not be enough to discover every corner of the Mostar. Still, you will have an opportunity to experience a new culture and enjoy many breathtaking views in just one day. With a booked guided tour, you will be able to discover many famous places in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

Throughout the tour, your guide will tell you interesting facts and stories about Mostar, Medjugorje, and Pocitelj. He will also take you to the many iconic landmarks, including the famous Mostar Bridge and Turkish House, also known as Kajtaz’s House. 

Mostar Day Trip from Dubrovnik Highlights

Explore all the main highlights of the Mostar on a walking tour accompanied by a professional tour guide. Stroll through the cobbled stone streets and witness the town’s scenic views from the Old Bridge. 

Počitelj is a cultural site and historical attraction with structures dating back to the early 15th century. While visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site , you will have a chance to discover Hadzi Alija Mosque, many bath houses, and the iconic clock tower.

On this day trip, you will also be able to visit one of the most famous pilgrim destinations in the Catholic world – Međugorje. The town became famous after Our Lady of Peace appeared here in 1981. Since then, many pilgrims and tourists travel to this town from all around the world.

Good to know – Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip

• Book your Mostar day tour from Dubrovnik in advance! 
• Arrive at least 15 minutes before the selected time.
• Don’t miss out on exploring the small town of Počitelj while having free time!
• Bring enough water because there will be a lot of walking on this day trip.
• If you plan to go on a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip during the summer, we highly advise you to bring sunscreen and a hat because the temperatures can be really high!

Interesting facts about the Mostar you probably didn’t know 

You need proper training to jump off the bridge.

Mostar’s Old Bridge is an iconic city landmark and a famous spot for male divers that jump off its ledge. The bridge is about 24 meters above the Neretva River (depending on water levels), and the water below is very cold with a strong current. Jumping off the bridge is only possible if you’ve been trained first.

T he Old Bridge Today Is Not The Original

The Old Bridge was entirely destroyed during the war. It was blown into pieces. Many of the pieces were salvaged by the divers, and many of them were used as spectator seating along the shore. Following the original design, the old bridge was rebuilt in 2004. If you want to see photos of Mostar during the war, we recommend you check out the War Photo Exhibition. 

The City Is Still Very Divided

Although the war ended years ago, the city still has animosity. There is still a physical divide between the Bosniak and Croatian sides. You will notice a difference if you travel both sides.

Bosnian Coffee Culture Is Huge

Bosnian coffee is more than just a drink. Preparing it and drinking it is a tradition that is meant to be enjoyed among friends slowly. If you wait for a few minutes for everything to mix, you will get the perfect cup of Bosnian coffee. 

Why wait? Book Your Mostar Day Trip from Dubrovnik Now!

Related articles more from author, exploring the marvels of rio de janeiro: a comprehensive guide to your unforgettable journey, national parks to explore in croatia, top 5 companies offering the best tourism plans in dubai.

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Mostar Private Day Trip from Dubrovnik

• Free cancellation – full refund if cancelled 48h in advance
• Duration 9-9:30 hours, start time 07:30AM, all 2024
• Instant Confirmation, with only 20% deposit paid by PayPal in advance
• Private Pick-up (type your address in booking-form)
• Physical rating: Light (light walking, nothing too challenging)

What is included?

• Air conditioned vehicle with professional English speaking driver guide
• Mostar Old Town walking tour (all major sights covered)
• Pocitelj city and Blagaj (Buna river spring) visit (option A)
• Kravica Waterfall and Ston town visit (option B)

What is not included?

• Entrance ticket to Kravica Waterfalls – 10 EUR per adult
• Entrance ticket to Dervish’s house – 5 EUR per adult
• Lunch at Mostar (optional)
• Medjugorje Pilgrimage and Apparation Site visit – please inquire by e mail prior to tour
• Guests need to have valid passport/visa with them at all times during whole duration of the tour
• Bosnian currency – KM (convertible mark) Most of business in Mostar accept Euros
• Later return to Dubrovnik is possible during Summer months due to border and traffic conditions
• For up to 3 persons we use mid-size car, while for 4 and more persons we use 8 seater van

How to book this tour

• Use booking form to check availability, prices, and book your tour
• 20% deposit is required at the time of booking by PayPal
• The outstanding amount should be settled with the tour guide after the tour
• After successful booking you’ll receive a confirmation e-mail

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The Balkans and Beyond

Balkan travel inspiration and practical travel tips

A Day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar – How to do it and What to See

A Dubrovnik Day Trip to Mostar

Visiting the magical walled city of Dubrovnik is high on many people’s bucket list. It’s easy to see why. History buffs are fascinated by this enthralling city full of ancient and recent history, Game of Thrones fans are in heaven exploring the areas of the city used in the filming of the epic series and intrepid explorers will love the narrow winding alleys that lead to intriguing parts of the city. But, whilst there is so much to do in the city, did you know you can take a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina?

Why Visit Mostar?

So, if Dubrovnik is that incredible, why is it worth taking a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar? If you enjoy the charm and history of Dubrovnik, you will be astounded by Mostar.

How to Get There?

Now that the city is firmly on your radar, here are several ways to reach Mostar from Dubrovnik. There are no trains in this part of the Balkans.

Car – The drive to Mostar from Dubrovnik will only take around 2 hours and 15 minutes. However, there is often a long queue at the border. Be prepared to wait and make sure you plan your journey in advance. Some border crossings are busier than others at different times of the day. Don’t forget your passport (you’ll even get it stamped)!

Tour – Many tour companies offer trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar. This is what we chose to do the first time we visited. Our tour lasted for 11 hours and included transport from Dubrovnik to Mostar and we also visited Kravice Waterfalls. We used  GETYOURGUIDE  and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Bus – You can book your tickets online and the journey will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes. However, buses are not that frequent and the timings might be difficult for a day trip. Best to ask at the bus station in Dubrovnik for the most accurate information.

What to do in Mostar

Marvel at the impressive stari most.

The area was developed in the 15th century around the Stari Most – Old Bridge. This beautiful piece of Ottoman architecture and engineering was constructed in 1566 by architect Mimar Hajruddin, replacing an older wooden bridge.

The stunning white, stone bridge measures 30m long and sits proudly 20m above the river. Despite this, it was still strong enough to support the weight of Nazi tanks during World War 2!

However, the Bosnian war proved a step too far and the bridge was destroyed in 1993. Fortunately, it was painstakingly reconstructed, in line with the original building methods, and it was completed again in 2004.

Look out for the divers launching themselves from the top of the bridge into the green water below!

Explore Mostar’s Ottoman Bazaar

After crossing the Stari Most you will arrive in the Bazaar. This place is the most pleasant assault on the senses! Walking over the smooth, if not slightly perilous, cobbles you will hear quiet chirping of stall owners and browsers. There are scarves, rugs and many items of beautiful copperware for sale. Coming from the back of one shop is the tinny hammering as a craftsmen makes a beautiful copper pot. Browse the authentic souvenirs that are often being made right in front of you. There is a smell of sweet baklava and strong Bosnian coffee . Make sure you stop in a café to enjoy it. But don’t stop for too long, there is so much more to see!

Learn about the Atrocities of the 1990s at the Museum of war and genocide victims

This museum clearly explains the recent and traumatic history of this beautiful country. There are many unpleasant aspects of the 1992 – 1995 War and it is shocking that it took place so recently. However, this museum is so important to educate people and ensure these events never occur again.

Climb the Minaret of Koskin-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque

There are many beautiful Mosques in the Balkans. This one is a little different as visitors have the opportunity to climb the minaret. After climbing the 78 steps, you will be rewarded with a beautiful view across the city. Remember to be respectful when entering a place of worship and cover up, that includes wearing a headscarf ladies! The cost for entry and to climb the minaret is €6.

Visit Kajtaz’s House

Browse this traditional Turkish dwelling and learn some fascinating Ottoman history. It is a short of a walk from the Bazaar and the cost of entry is around €4.

Experience a bit of History at the Sniper Tower

The scars of the Bosnian war are still present all across this resilient country. An obvious example of this is an abandoned building in Mostar. This old bank was used as a sniper tower during the war. It is not safe to go inside but the bullet holes in the wall are a firm reminder of the suffering that was endured in this part of Europe.

Where to Eat During you Day Trip to Mostar

Delicious, traditional food is served at Hindin Han. You can enjoy it while admiring the stunning view over the Neretva River.

Vegetarian and vegan heavan! Not an easy thing to find in the Balkans, but Teco offers a nice choice of dishes along with sugar free or gluten free cakes and craft beers.

Polaris Cocktail and Lounge Bar

Great selection of cocktails and pretty close to the old town. Fun place to spend some time watching the world go by.

Sitting at the foot of Stari Most, this is a great little spot. The coffee is good and the service is decent. Bosnian coffee is definitely something you must experience on you trip to Mostar,

When is the Best Time to visit Mostar from Dubrovnik?

It’s always a good time to visit Mostar! However, for the best weather, and to avoid the crowds, the usual shoulder seasons are best. We found spring to be mild and dry. The town was busy enough to have a gentle buzz around it without being swarmed with tourists – like it can be in the summer.

Early autumn is also a beautiful time to visit. Just don’t leave it until November, unless you enjoy the rain!

What to Pack for a Day in Mostar

To make the most of a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar, it’s best to leave early. To save you some time, we have provided a handy packing list of items that you might need for the day.

• Passport and any necessary documentation – You will cross the Bosnian/Croatian border and the checks are thorough
• Hiking boots or “sensible” shoes – The streets of Mostar’s old town are cobbled with smooth, white stone. Even in dry weather these guys are slippery – especially across the bridge – but it looks so good that it’s worth it!
• Currency – Most places will accept Euros but the local currency is the Convertible Mark
• Small backpack – To keep your hands free for browsing and taking pictures
• Snacks – For the journey
• Entertainment for the bus/car ride, music/book/etc.
• Water bottle
• Scarf – ladies, if we want to explore inside the mosques, we must cover our heads
• Sunscreen and sunglasses when appropriate
• Phone – plus power bank if required. Keep in mind that Bosnia is not in the EU so data might be more expensive as roaming charges will apply.
• Download maps onto phone when you are connected to WIFI to avoid data charges
• Decent camera (or phone) with plenty of space for pictures of the spectacular scenery

Finally, Here are a Few Bosnian Phrases to Try Out

Bosnian is the most commonly spoken language in Bosnia Herzegovina. Like most languages in the Balkans, it is not easy for English speakers. However, the locals really appreciate any attempt at their language and are always happy to help you out. Here are a few basic Bosnian phrases to get you started.

Dobar dan (DOH-bahr dahn) or Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh) /  Hello

Hvala (HVAH-lah) /  Thank You

Da (dah) and Ne (neh) /  Yes and No

Molim (MOH-leem) /  Please

Dovidenja (doh-vee-JEH-nyah) or Cao (chaoo) /  Goodbye

Where to go next

Ready for another adventure? Why not try travelling from Dubrovnik to  Montenegro ’s capital Podgorica? There are plenty of mountains, rivers and lakes to discover in beautiful Montenegro. Not quite finished with Bosnia? Visit the beautiful Kravice Waterfalls , only a short drive from Mostar.

Final note: Things change in the Balkans all the time and there is not much information online in English. We would definitely advise checking with a local where possible. We found people to be really friendly and super helpful.

Have you visited Mostar or Dubrovnik? Are you planning a trip and need more information? Drop a comment in the box, we’d love to hear from you!

A Day Trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar

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We love to travel and share our Balkan experiences to assist and inspire

Thanks Krista. It’s definitely worth taking a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar, it’s a beautiful place!

This is so good to know! I had no idea that Mostar was so close to Dubrovnik, and I’ve always wanted to visit both of them. Thanks for the great tips!

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Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip: blue rivers and enchanting towns

Roxanne de Bruyn

Bosnia-Herzegovina

• A day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik

Driving through Bosnia and Herzegovina is simply stunning. We follow the Neretva River from Croatia and it’s so incredibly blue, more like ocean than river. The road twists upwards and we eventually come to Počitelj, an enchanting town, built on a hilltop in the bend of the river.

The village is beautiful, with a towering mosque halfway up the cliff and a ruined castle perches on the summit. It’s hot, around 40 degrees, but I’m so entranced by Počitelj I barely notice the heat. We walk to the castle, and manage to negotiate its steep stairs. The view is spectacular, well worth the climb… I could stare at the countryside for hours.

Of course, being a picturesque, historic town, it isn’t empty – tour groups stop here regularly – but it’s not too crowded. For a few minutes, we even have the village to ourselves. Počitelj is easily my favourite small town, even counting the Tuscan villages we’ve passed through. Still, I manage to tear myself away eventually and we continue to Mostar, the city with the sweeping bridge.

Straddling the Neretva, Mostar is a relatively small city. The old town is elegant and pretty, the white bridge only recently rebuilt (it was destroyed in the war). There’s a definite similarity to some of the Croatian old towns, with the familiar slippery, white stone streets. Of course, it’s still hot and it’s also Ramadan, so the only people wandering around outside are tourists.

There's a small group of locals down by the river, sitting in the shade by the rocks. Up at the top of the bridge, young men get ready to jump off, laughing with the tourists (and presumably collecting tips). We see the first jumper dropping from the bridge, falling a very long way into the silky river, and eventually popping up, breathless and laughing. We leave them to it, and have lunch at a shady restaurant near the river.

We walk through the streets of the old town, and then around it, past the mosques and churches and stalls and restaurants. There are still a few scars of the conflict in the 90s and we even wander into an exhibition about the war. I feel strangely touched by Mostar, sad but complete, as though something in me is made whole by being here. Mostar still seems to be healing, but that somehow adds to its beauty, and I don’t want to leave. The city has so much depth and experience and I feel like I could learn a lot here.

We aren’t going any farther into Bosnia and Herzegovina and I’d love to come back to see more and stay a bit longer another time. I’ve always wanted to visit Sarajevo, but now I’d like to see some smaller towns too - more of the Balkans in general, and Serbia in particular. This is a beautiful, fascinating, heart-breaking region, and I can only imagine the lifetimes it would take to understand it.

While you can do a day trip to Mostar independently, we went via a day tour from Dubrovnik .

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Author - Roxanne de Bruyn

Roxanne is the founder and editor of Faraway Worlds. She is a freelance writer and guidebook author and has written for several travel publications, including Lonely Planet, TripAdvisor and The Culture Trip. With a background in communications, she has studied ancient history, comparative religion and international development, and has a particular interest in sustainable tourism.

Originally from South Africa, Roxanne has travelled widely and loves learning the stories of the places she visits. She enjoys cooking, dance and yoga, and usually travels with her husband and young son. She is based in New Zealand.

Last Updated 21 February 2023

Dubrovnik Travel Guide

Dubrovnik to mostar day trip.

One of the popular day trips from Dubrovnik is a trip to nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina to visit Mostar – the town with ‘that bridge’ !

And yes, the bridge, known as Old Bridge ( Stari Most) , is stunning in real life as in the photos.

Mostar is a city where East meets West, a melting pot of cultures and religions.

The Ottoman influence is so strong that you will forget you’re in the Balkans, right in the middle of Europe, and think you have been teleported to some oriental city. The smell of shisha, Turkish restaurants, and the exotic Old Bazaar Kujundziluk, selling all kinds of handmade crafts, clothes and jewelry.

If you want to see something different and unique on your holiday, a day trip to Mostar is a perfect choice!

Mostar is a city with a fascinating history, almost a culture shock for anyone who visits from a place like Dubrovnik.

Fun fact: Croats and Muslims in Mostar could not agree on a whose statue would stand as a symbol of peace in their city so they finally agreed on… Bruce Lee !

Where is Mostar

• How far is Mostar from Dubrovnik

Important info before you travel

Dubrovnik to mostar border crossing, with an organized tour, kravice waterfalls.

• Bosnian cuisine
• Bosnian coffee

Mostar is located in Bosnia & Herzegovina, a country in South and Southeast Europe, situated within the Balkans.

How Far Is Mostar From Dubrovnik

The driving distance from Dubrovnik to Mostar is 131 km (81 miles), which is about 2:30 hours drive.

PASSPORTS:  Mostar is in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is another country (duh). Unless you want to do a day-trip to the border and back, don’t forget to take passports with you!

If you are EU national, you can also enter with an ID, therefore you don’t need a passport.

When you arrive at border control your passport will be taken and you’ll get a stamp (new stamp yay!).

VISA REQUIREMENTS:  Citizens of some countries require a visa to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina.

U.S., UK, EU, Australian and New Zealand passport holders do not require visas.

For all other countries check out the  Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina website for the most current visa information.

DATA ROAMING: Don’t forget to switch off the internet on your mobile as Bosnia isn’t part of the EU and data roaming ISN’T FREE (for both EU nationals as people living elsewhere). Just switching a mobile on with data roaming active will cost you a fortune.

CURRENCY: Bosnia uses Bosnian Convertible Mark (KM), but plenty of places accepts Croatian Kuna (KN) and Euros (€), so there is no need to exchange any currency to Bosnian Marks.

HOW FAR IS MOSTAR FROM DUBROVNIK : The travel distance from Dubrovnik to Mostar is about 140 km , which equals a traveling time by car of roughly 2:30 hours.

The scenery on the bus trip up the Croatian coastal highway all the way along is just stunning, you will barely notice the time passing.

IS IT SAFE TO VISIT MOSTAR : Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the safest places in Europe. Violent crime is virtually non-existent.

CHECK THE CRUISE SHIP SCHEDULE IN DUBROVNIK:  The best time to visit Mostar, or to do any other day-trip from Dubrovnik is when Dubrovnik is packed with tourists from the cruise ships. Check out the cruise ship schedule for 2020 here  and escape Dubrovnik crowds!

TELEPHONE CODE: +387

To get to Mostar, there are two border crossings from Croatia into Bosnia and Herzegovina. The reason for this is Neum, a city where Bosnia and Herzegovina has short coast cutting Croatia into two parts.

These crossings can get very busy in the high season, so expect delays. There is no way to predict how much time you will have to wait to cross the border, it can take anywhere from 5 minutes to 1 hour.

Croatia has begun work on a bridge that will connect the mainland to the Pelješac Peninsula just before the Bosnian border, bypassing Neum (see photo above). The purpose of the bridge is to achieve the territorial continuity of the Republic of Croatia by connecting the Dubrovnik-Neretva County with the remainder of the Croatian mainland.

How to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar

There are 3 ways how to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar:

If you want to do just a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar, without spending a night there, then your best option is to take an organized tour.

This is the easiest option with the least amount of thinking.

There are plenty of tour companies offering daily day trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar with almost identical itineraries.

Most of the tour companies offer a pick-up and drop off from your accommodation place and an English-speaking tour guide who will give you all information during your trip.

Click Here To Check Out Our Recommendations Of Day Tours From Dubrovnik To Mostar!

There are 3 options when doing a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar:

• Visit Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls
• Visit Mostar and Međugorje
• Take a private tour and customize the entire trip

At least four buses depart from Dubrovnik to Mostar daily, including one overnight bus.

The earliest departure from Dubrovnik is at 08:00 arriving in Mostar at 11:45. The latest departure is at 22:30 arriving at 01:55.

A one-way bus ticket from Dubrovnik to Mostar costs around  15€ .

The advertised journey time by bus is about 3.5 hours , but expect it to be longer because of the border crossing delays, especially during the high season (June-September).

During low season buses are less frequent, but there are at least two daily buses (mornings and afternoons) all year round.

All buses depart from the  Dubrovnik main bus station , which is located in Gruž, right next to the ferry port, 3 km (1.8 miles) from Pile Gate in Old Town.

Hiring a car allows you the most flexibility, however here are few things you should know before renting one:

To rent a car outside of Croatia, you must have a green card, which is a green sheet of paper stating which countries the car has a minimum level of insurance required to be in. It has become unnecessary within the EU as all cars must be covered in all other EU countries. Bosnia is not in the EU, therefore the requirement.

Some car rental agencies automatically have it included in their rental fees, while some don’t have it so they will add a daily fee (around 9€ per day).

Before booking a rental car be sure to confirm with the company whether this is provided, or to read the full rental terms to make sure they won’t try to charge you extra when you pick up the car.

NOTE: You don’t need a green card to just cross the border through Neum. Car hire companies treat the 15 minutes transit at Neum as an exception and make no charge.

One-way drop-offs fees

If you plan to travel one-way from Dubrovnik to Mostar and leave the car at a location different from the pickup place, then you will have to pay a one-way fee for dropping off the car in a different location. These fees can be very expensive, sometimes costing up to 300€. There are few car rental companies that don’t charge extra fees for this service, so try to find them.

Bad roads and no Google maps

The roads in Bosnia are often in a rather bad condition and the road signs are not so straight forward. Don’t forget that data roaming in Bosnia-Herzegovina isn’t free so make sure you have Google maps installed on your phone or bring a GPS device with you for the journey. Also, keep in mind that Google Maps doesn’t do well with road conditions, it shows you the fastest route, but not the best one.

Just 40 km (25 miles) outside of Mostar, Kravice Waterfalls are a must stop when doing a day-trip to Mostar!

Waterfalls are lovely to see if you’re in the area but not as a full day activity as there is nothing else to see at the falls or the surrounding area.

There are numerous impressive waterfalls and they are around 25 meters (82 feet) high.

You can swim in the lake and even under the waterfalls, picnic, take a boat ride up close to the falls or sit and have a drink or something to eat. There are small beach areas around the lake if you want to bring a towel and lounge. the

Although secluded, this natural attraction can become crowded in the high summer season as it is a popular bathing spot for locals and tourists. From the parking, you can walk or take a small train down the hill to get to Kravice Waterfalls. A train arrives infrequently and it costs 1€ (2KM) per person. If you’re doing an organized day trip to Mostar you’ll have 1shour free time at the waterfalls. So, it is better to save time walking up and down the stairs and take a train so you have more time on waterfalls.

Entrance fee for Kravice Waterfalls • October – May: 6KM or €3 • June & September: 8KM or €4 • July & August: 10KM or €5 You can also pay in Kuna or Marka.

There are 4 ways to reach Kravice Waterfalls:

• As an organized day-trip from Dubrovnik. Most of the day-trips to Mostar also include Kravice Falls.
• By taking a taxi from Mostar. With the driver waiting for you for an hour or so, it will cost around 50€ to get there and back. You can also tell the driver when to come back.
• By taking a bus from Mostar to Ljubuški for about 4€ (7 KM ) and then a taxi for about 10€ (20 KM) one-way. I don’t recommend this option as it’s complicated and it’s hard to match bus schedules.
• By taking an organized tour from Mostar to Kravice (40€). It starts at 11:00 and lasts for 1:30h.

Međugorje is a popular religious destination, located 25 km (16 mi) southwest of Mostar and close to the border of Croatia. Since 1981, it has become a popular, but unapproved site of Catholic pilgrimage due to reports of alleged apparitions of the Virgin Mary to six local children.

Referred to as “Our Lady of Međugorje”, the Catholic faithful believe the apparition of the Virgin Mary continues to bring messages to visionaries to this very day. Because many people claim to have experienced phenomena including seeing symbols that appear in the sky, Međugorje is a major pilgrimage site for Catholics all over the world. Estimates suggest more than 30 million pilgrims have made their way to the site since 1981.

NOTE: If you’re not religious I don’t recommend visiting Međugorje since it’s an entirely religious destination and there is nothing non-touristic to do or see there.

What to do in Međugorje?

What you can do in Međugorje depends on how much time you have. The most popular things to do in Međugorje are attending the mass at St. James church and climbing the Apparition Hill (Mt. Podbrdo). The Church of St. James is the symbol and the heart of the Parish of Međugorje.

The Hill of Podbrdo is the place where the Međugorje events started. It is on this hill that Our Lady first appeared to six children back in 1981.

You need around 30 minutes to climb the hill, when you get to the top you can spend as much time as you wish at the statue of Our Lady, and then go back down.

What to do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. stari most – old bridge.

The city is named after the bridge keepers (known as  mostari ) who guarded the Old Bridge in medieval times.

The bridge was originally built by the Ottomans in the 16 th  century and it connects the two sides of the city.

In 1993 it was destroyed during the Yugoslav war and it was finally rebuilt in 2004.

Today it’s a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  and a symbol of unity for an ethnically divided city.

Stari Most Tips

The surface of the bridge is steep and very slippery so don’t wear flip flops! Make sure you use some more robust footwear instead.

Jumping off the Old Bridge in Mostar

The bridge is also famous for it’s crazy and dangerous tradition of  jumping off the 24 meters  height bridge, which began in 1664.  In 1968 the city held a formal diving competition, which still continues today.

During the day, you will spot men wearing tight black Speedos walking around collecting money. As soon as the diver has a €20 donation, you’ll get the pleasure of watching one of them dive off the bridge.

Do not try to dive yourself from the bridge! It’s dangerous and people have been injured and even died doing it. The water is chilly, the current is extremely strong and the river is not deep.

If you are crazy and you’re still up for it, you can receive “training” from locals for about 20-25 EUR that will teach you the basics of  Stari Most  diving.

Watch this  YouTube video to see how jumping off the Old Bridge in Mostar looks like.

Best Views of Stari Most, Mostar

Looking for that Instagram picture of the Stari Most bridge?

Don’t miss the biggest photo opportunity!

For the best 360º views of  Stari Most , head to  Koskin-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque .

Located north of the Old Bridge, you must pay a fee to climb up the minaret. But a visit to the mosque and the minaret is included in the fee.

For 12KM, you can take a photo of the Old Bridge with a spectacular view from the top of the minaret. To get to the top, it’s a narrow, claustrophobic spiral staircase with steep stairs, but it’s worth it!

The most popular spot to photograph the bridge are rocks below Stari Most.

There are two viewing areas of the bridge. The smaller area is nearly directly underneath the bridge and next to a cafe. The larger area is an elevated area (next to a destroyed building) which shows off Stari Most at a nice angle.

2. Bosnian cuisine

One of the best things about Mostar (and the main reason why people from Dubrovnik go to Mostar) is food! Restaurants in Mostar are ridiculously cheap and offer delicious meals. During your day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik, enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine. Prepare yourself for complete satisfaction with Bosnian specialties like ćevapi (grilled dish of minced meat), burek (meat pastry), baklava (sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey).

Traditional Bosnian food shares similarities with the Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine, a legacy of 400 years of Ottoman rule.

3. Old Bazaar Kujundziluk

Kujundziluk – the town’s old bazaar – a Turkish-era street market situated in heart of the town with Ottoman architecture, cobblestone narrow streets full of artisan shops offering bronze carvings, pomegranates, and other fruits. Turkish influence makes this market exotic.

There are many types of handmade items and art along with other items like modern clothing that weren’t handmade.

There’s a little bit of something that everyone can enjoy.

4. Try Bosnian coffee

Coffee and cigarettes are both a huge part of the culture. The coffee is very strong and is presented in a traditional Bosnian coffee pot. The coffee is accompanied by sweets similar to Turkish delight. How to drink Bosnian coffee? It’s all about taking the smallest bite of the sugar cube and then sipping the coffee. The coffee and sugar meet in your mouth, you don’t mix the sugar in your coffee. Then you eat a little of your Turkish delight (a gelatin-like sweet candy typically made from fruit). Bosnians smoke a lot. There’s supposedly a national law that prohibits smoking in public, but it is completely ignored. You will see mothers smoking while holding infants, ridiculously young children smoking on the streets…

Did you find this post helpful?

If you have any questions, disagreements or suggestions please comment and let us know! We’d love your feedback on this.

Mostar Tour from Dubrovnik

Mostar & Kravice Waterfalls Tour from Dubrovnik

Full day/up to 12 hrs

Cancellation

24 hrs prior

MOSTAR – KRAVICE – The magical waterfalls

Visit Mostar, a town located in the south of Bosnia and Herzegovina known for a unique blend of cultures which resulted in picturesque streets and unique structures such as the famous Old Bridge (Stari most). Along the way you will also visit one of the most fascinating natural wonders of the region - the crystal clear waterfalls of Kravica. The waterfalls created by the Trebižat river are a natural wonder that is now under state protection. This waterfalls are among the largest in Herzegovina and definitely the most impressive. The tour from Dubrovnik to Mostar (with a twist!) will let you experience the beautiful shades of green and untouched nature, all enriched by some exciting Oriental architecture.

What to wear

casual wear, sports footwear

What to bring

camera, passport and swimsuit (chance to take a swim at Kravica)

Local currency

Convertible mark, sign: KM, code: BAM

hotel pick up / drop off, transport, transportation fees, tour guide, guided city tour in Mostar, VAT

Not included

museum tickets (optional), entrance fee to the waterfalls, lunch, local taxes in Bosnia and Herzegovina 3,00 EUR

Every day - from April till the end of October

age 0-6: free of charge; age 6+: full price

Cancellation deadline

24 hrs prior no charge. No show - no refund.

Please note

Passport is required (citizens of certain countries need visa).

07:00-07:40

Hotel pick-up

07:40–10:30

Drive to Kravica Waterfalls with a comfort stop

10:30–11:30

Free time at Kravica Waterfalls

11:30–12:30

Drive to Mostar

12:30–15:00

Guided city tour and free time in Mostar

15:00–18:00

Drive from Mostar to Dubrovnik

Excursion itinerary may be subject to change due to conditions beyond our control.

Our payment is secured with T-mobile Pay Way platform

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Day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar

Dubrovnik Home » Day Trips from Dubrovnik » Day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar

If you are visiting Dubrovnik and would like a quick visit to neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina, a day trip to Mostar is a great idea to experience a different culture and explore this beautiful 15-century old town.

Dubrovnik is not too far from Mostar. A day trip is pretty easy to organise and in my opinion, Mostar is actually one of the essential places to visit in the area.

It takes just about two and a half hour to drive there (about 140 km). The journey includes crossing the border between Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina so make sure you don’t forget to take your travel documents with you.

Once there, here are the essential points of interest to see and do in Mostar, just to mention a few:

• The 16th century Old Bridge, locally called Stari Most (hence the name of the town) – a piece of architecture that is the landmark of the town and UNESCO’s World Heritage Site
• Kujundziluk – the towns old bazaar – a Turkish-era street market situated in heart of the town with Ottoman architecture, cobblestone narrow streets full of artisan shops offering bronze carvings, pomegranates and other fruits.
• Historic Mosque – Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque, Turkish House (Kajtaz), Sahat Kula (clock tower), Hammam (Turkish bath) – all situated in the Old Town.
• Watch cliff jumps/dives from Old bridge (summers only) where local young men jump from Stari Most into Neretva river (about 20 meters deep jump – see below video)
• Try local kebabs (Ćevapčići or Ćevapi)
• Relax on the banks of the river with Turkish coffee while watching the world go by
• Watch the sunset colours over the Neretva river (bonus experience if you are staying until late afternoon)

Places on the way that shouldn’t be missed:

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Počitelj   (its only 2 hrs drive from Dubrovnik – 115 km; GPS 43.134384, 17.730706 ).

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If you have another hour or so on your disposal, on the way back from Mostar you can stop and spend some time in Pocitelj, a tiny town situated on the banks of Neretva river.

The town features some interesting Ottoman-style architecture and a couple of good local cafes. Have a short break here, get a cup of Turkish coffee and a piece of Rahat locum cake (locally made Turkish delight). Try local baklava (sweet dessert pastry ) my favourite, yummy 🙂

Vrelo Bune (aka source of Buna river) shouldn’t be missed too. It is just outside of Mostar (14 km south, 20 min drive) in a small town of Blagaj (GPS coordinates 43.256867, 17.902994 ).

Banks and waterfalls of this colourful small river offer lovely cool shade, especially welcomed in hot summer months.

Need Entry Tickets to Town Walls? Buy Now

Once there, visit Tekija (Blagaj Tekke), Muslim Dervish monastery (hermit house) built under the cliff 600 years ago. While you listen to the sounds of running water, grab an ice cream and enjoy.

If you have more time (which you probably won’t have – it is only a day trip) go a bit further and visit Medjugorje or Nature Park Hutovo Blato, a great place to visit for nature lovers.

Book in advance, public transport or self-drive trip?

Bearing in mind that getting to Mostar from Dubrovnik takes just 2 1/2 hours,  your best option is, in my opinion, to take a self-drive day trip.

Popular routes: Split to Dubrovnik , Dubrovnik to Split , Hvar to Dubrovnik , Dubrovnik to Hvar

Hiring a car in Dubrovnik is actually cheap – you can get a small car for about 30 Euro per day ( book it in advance here ) and parking in Mostar if fairly easy (park in Bulevar street).

So, take a car, enter GPS info (see above) in your favourite map app and go!

If you prefer to be driven, you can get pre-arranged tours that are offered by local tour companies ( see a selection here ). Most of these trips also include Pocitelj as a short stop-over point.

There is also a public transport option – getting by bus from Dubrovnik to Mostar .

There are at least three buses daily that leave from  the main bus station  in Gruž at 8:00, 16:00 and 17:15 and cost 117 HRK one way. However, the bus journey takes as much as 4 hours so it is not really suitable for a nice day trip.

Let’s say you take the morning bus (8 am), you will arrive in Mostar at 12 noon. And you already missed the only direct bus to get back to Dubrovnik! In this case, you would need to either overnight in Mostar or take a bus back via Makarska that takes about 7 hrs. No, this is not a good idea. Stick either by self-drive or pre-arranged bus tour.

Map of a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar:

• see additional info about Mostar here and watch this amazing video:

Similar info about Dubrovnik you may like:

• Day Trips from Dubrovnik
• Visiting Lokrum Island
• Botanical Gardens – Lokrum
• Getting from Mostar to Dubrovnik

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Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip: Crossing the Border into Bosnia

last Updated: June 7, 2023 bosnia mostar

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Croatia and considering booking yourself on a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip? Read on for information about what to expect, what you’ll be able to see in just one day (hint – a lot), and extra tips and details! This Mostar travel blog will help you plan your trip, that’s for sure!

Making the trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar is super simple, you don’t even need a tour. However, if you’re especially pressed on time and want to see what this city is all about, I highly recommend joining one. Not only will you learn more about the city’s treacherous past, but those border crossings will be an absolute breeze!

So book yourself on a day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik , and get ready to be amazed at all the beauty and teachings this country has to offer.

I’ll preface this entire post by saying that one day in Bosnia & Herzegovina is just not enough. While it’s possible to see some of the city’s highlights in just a few short hours, the charm of the city really comes alive at night, after most of the Dubrovnik to Mostar day trippers have left. In addition, there are some marvelous places surrounding the city of Mostar that are too good to leave out (you’ll learn more about those below).

Mostar, in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, took me by absolute surprise. I wasn’t expecting to fall deeply for this tiny blip on the map, but there it was. And I can’t even believe I’m saying this, but my few days in Mostar turned out to be one of my richest travel experiences of my entire year.

→ Read Next: 2 Weeks in Croatia [The Perfect Itinerary for First Time Visitors]

How to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar:

On a day tour: As previously mentioned, if you’re short on time yet still want to experience some of the thrill that is Mostar, a day tour from Dubrovnik (or Split too, actually) is the way to go. On a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip you can expect to have a few hours to explore the intriguing city of Mostar itself, take a quick plunge in the Kravice waterfalls, visit the old Turkish town of Pocitelj, and learn a bit about the war.

Tours will pick you up from your accommodation in Dubrovnik , whisk you around Bosnia & Herzegovina, and have you back to your hotel around dinner time. Like I said before, if you’re short on time, a guided bus tour is the way to go . And thankfully, all this will only set you back around $50-$60USD, which is quite a bargain considering what’s included.

Whatever you do, don’t be naive and think taking the bus will be a decent option for a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar – if you read about the bus info below you’ll see it takes about 5 ½ hours each way. Yup, not entirely conducive to a day trip, unless you want to spend 11 hours on a bus in a single day (um, no thank you).

Check out some recommended Dubrovnik to Mostar day trips below:

You can check the reviews here , but all the tours are pretty much the same thing. All the Dubrovnik tour companies visit Mostar, Kravice Falls, and Pocitelj at a minimum.

On the public bus: If you have at least a night to spare, I recommend taking the bus from Dubrovnik to Mostar and staying overnight. You’ll get to see the town come alive at night (I’ll use the biggest cliche in the book and say that yes, it’s downright magical) and also have the chance to visit Blagaj (more information below).

Expect the Dubrovnik to Mostar bus ticket to be about $20 (16 euro) or so. You’ll also most likely need to pay a euro or mark or two (or 5-10 kuna) in order to have your luggage (per piece) board the bottom of the bus. Be prepared and have a bit of cash on hand.

Mostar is actually located about equidistant from Dubrovnik and Split, so if you’re making your way up or down the coast, you can make a short pit stop in Mostar either direction. Do note that although the bus is scheduled to arrive to Mostar in about 3 hours, the actual driving time will be waaaaay longer than this.

I think I was on the bus for about 5 ½ hours, because all buses have to go through customs (i.e. border crossings) three times. Yup, threeee times. Because of that, you really need at least a night in Mostar if you’re planning on taking the bus.

Find more information on bus schedules and routes here .

Thankfully, once you arrive in Mostar, the bus station is right on the edge of the city, about a 15 minute walk from the Old Bridge (Stari Most). You can easily get to your hotel/accommodation by walking or taking a short taxi ride.

→ Read Next: 9 Equally Stunning Day Trips from Dubrovnik

It’d be a bit foolish and silly to venture into Bosnia and Herzegovina without understanding a bit about the cities past. I regretfully didn’t know too much about the conflict before stepping foot in the country, but thankfully learned a great deal during my time there.

A Bit of War History on Mostar:

I’m normally not a huge history fan, but after only a few hours in Bosnia I was hooked. Hooked on learning everything and anything I could about their fascinating and intensely intriguing war days. Hooked on the city’s’ ability to move on from their tragically violent past. Hooked on their deep connections to both remembering and forgetting.

A bit of information so you can easily digest the following information:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina used to be a part of the former Yugoslavia
• The area consisted of a multiethnic population including Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims), Serbs (those from Serbia), and Croats (those from Croatia).
• War sucks. Plain and simple.

Here’s what I learned from our local guide (with an attempt to piece it all together in a somewhat cohesive and logical way) and what resonated with me most:

First things first, the Bosnian war was an international armed conflict that took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina between the years of early 1992 and late 1995. The war started and was fought because Serbs and Croats (living in Bosnia) wanted to seize Bosnian territory for their home countries.

In order to do so, Serbia’s mission was to “ethnically cleanse” Bosnian territory by removing all Bosnian Muslims (known as Bosniaks). And because of its sheer size and power, Serbia, along with Bosnian Serbs, were able to attack Bosniaks with former Yugoslavian military equipment.

All in all, an estimated 100,000 people were killed, 80% of whom were Bosniaks. In July of 1995, Bosnian Serb forces killed as many as 8,000 Bosniak men and boys, making it the largest massacre in Europe since the Holocaust. Let that sink in a for a while. In 1995. Largest massacre since the Holocaust. 1995.

Enough was enough, and other parties needed to step in to end this ridiculousness of a mess. Finally, the war came to an end in 1995 after a treaty, the Dayton Agreement, was established, granting Bosnia and Herzegovina their independence.

With allll that being said, I honestly cannot believe they don’t teach the war in schools. It all happened not so long ago (in the mid 90’s!), and is nowhere to be found within textbooks in the states. What a shame. A real shame.

Things to do on a day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar:

If you’re coming to Mostar from Dubrovnik, you’ll probably stop at Kravice Falls and Pocitelj before the last stop of the day – Mostar. Both are extraordinary, and these extra pit stops, while somewhat short, will have you begging for more.

One of the stops on your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip will be Počitelj, a charming medieval and Ottoman-Mediterranean walled village, full of nature and interesting (yet deteriorating) architecture. Lying on the banks of the Neretva river (which is emerald green I might add), it’s absolutely not to be missed.

The unique mix of architecture (medieval Hungarian and 18th century Turkish) has even placed it on the UNESCO tentative list (talk about visiting before it even makes proper status!).

And whatever you do, make sure you (carefully) climb the citadel for the best panorama you’ll find in the entire town, including that jeweled Neretva River. As noted, steps are not the safest, so use extra caution and watch your footings. It’s best to climb up with a friend, but since I found myself solo in Mostar, I crept up the citadel inch by inch. Wander through the crumbling walls and you’ll be rewarded at the top.

Psst →  All my female solo travel tips over here (useful for you men as well, but it’s catered towards women, just FYI). 🙂

You’ll find lots of stairs all over the village, all leading down to the parking lot, but beware – it’s verrrrry easy to get lost here. I made sure to head down extra early juuuust in case I found myself unsure of where to turn next.

Believe it or not, but apparently people still live here (about 800!), although you probably won’t see too many locals. Tourists, that’s a whole other story. While it definitely wasn’t as crowded as Mostar, you can tell it’s a tourist hot spot.

Get some fresh fruit juice, and with raspberry, strawberry, and other interesting flavors available, you can’t say no. Plus, they’re only about a mark or so and so ultra refreshing on a hot hot Bosnian day.

Kravice Waterfalls

Next up on many Dubrovnik to Mostar bus trips will be Kravice Falls, an absolutely mesmerizing cascade of waterfalls situated on the Trebižat River. Plan to wear your bathing suit because you can swim/wallow in these waters!

But beware, even on the hottest of days (like 35 degrees C/100+ degrees F), the water will most likely still be pretty cold. Either jump right in or casually slide in (body part by body part) and let yourself adjust. It’ll feel good in a few moments, but don’t say I didn’t warn you about the chilly water temps! Refreshing yes, but it gets a tad uncomfortable when you’ve been in for too long.

And PLEASE oh please be extra cautious and careful when walking under the waterfalls and jumping off the ledges into the water (if you dare). The rocks are extremely slippery, making the whole situation a disaster waiting to happen.

Don’t do anything you’re not comfortable with, and ask locals for advice/help if you’re not sure about a particular jumping/climbing spot. I chose not to test my luck and was satisfied with a short swim and wander.

Also, the water gets quite deep once you swim away from the coast (until you reach the rocks of the waterfall), so be careful and keep your friends/family nearby. You’ll need to be a decent swimmer to make it to the base of the waterfalls.

Note that while visiting Kravice Falls used to be completely free, there is a small charge (a few marks or so) to visit nowadays, probably due to its increasing popularity.

In Mostar itself:

Old Town of Mostar: The Old Town, or ‘Old Bridge’ (see below!) of Mostar is a UNESCO world heritage site that boasts picture-perfect examples of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture. You’ll feel like you’re inside a painting as you wander the cobbled streets! Within the stone-smothered old town you’ll find tons of restaurants and souvenir shops, selling everything and anything imaginable.

You can easily cover the Old Town in a short amount of time as it’s quite small, being only a few streets long on either side of the Mostar bridge. Don’t miss the The Old Bazaar Kujundziluk as well since it’s located within the Old Town. Mostar’s buzzing Bazaar is a great place to observe history and day-to-day local life.

Winding along an old cobbled street, the bazaar is the place to find colorful crafts, copper workshops, and tiny Turkish restaurants and cafes where you can sample local specialities and other cultural foods. The Ottoman influence is particularly evident in these parts near the bridge; with smells of shisha, tons of metalwork, and lots of clothes and jewelry for sale.

It’s important to note that much of the Old Town was destroyed by war in the 1990s but has since been meticulously restored.

Stari Most: Mostar’s historic old town centers around the Stari Most Ottoman bridge, after which the city was named. All throughout the year, you’ll notice some locals collecting money from tourists, and once they collect enough, they jump off the bridge!

A bridge jumping competition has been held here at the end of July for hundreds of years, and coincidentally, I was actually there for the 451st competition (yup, told you it’s been going on for a while…). It’s fun to watch, but the water below is freezing, so leave it to the professionals, folks.

Many don’t know that this is not even the original bridge – after the collapse during the Croat-Bosniak conflict, it had to be entirely reconstructed and rebuilt, but they made sure to keep the charm! Be careful when walking across the bridge as it’s quite slippery, but don’t let this stop you – the views from the bridge are worth it!

Head Down to the Neretva River Bank: While you won’t be able to go for a full swim here (the current is undoubtedly quite fast and the water is chilly no matter the time of year), it’s a great spot to cool off and put your feet in. And on those scorching hot summer days, you’ll be thankful this is an option.

Eat Cevapici: This parcel of deliciousness is a national dish of Bosnia and Herzegovina, so you’ve just got to try it. Cevapici is a type of kebab made from minced beef and pork and served inside a flatbread with yummy extras such as sour cream, feta cheese and red pepper. Enjoy one at the lovely Babilon restaurant as you gaze up at the nearby Stari Most.

Also be sure to try some Bosnian pastries, which can be found in numerous pekaras (bakeries) all around town. I ate them almost every morning and whenever I got hungry, as they sell for only like 1 Mark each. My favorites were burek (minced meat) and zeljanica (spinach and cheese).

Climb the minaret at the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque: Climbing the minaret at this mosque is 100% worth the legwork for the incredible views of Mostar. It’s by far one of the best places in the city to view the Old Bridge and the beautiful surrounding area, and thankfully, it’s only a few mark to go up!

Start early as there’s only one way up and one way down – meaning that if you and another find yourselves going opposite directions, it can get quite squishy. Visit first thing in the morning (if you’re spending a night or two in the city) to avoid all the people.

I was lucky and was the first one up for the day (I even had to open the door to the minaret myself!). You’ll be asked to cover up: they supply shawls near the entrance. You can keep your shoes on.

Note that those who suffer from claustrophobia may have some difficulties due to the tight spaces here.

Enjoy traditional Turkish coffee: Coffee is a hugely important part of the Bosnian social scene. It’s prepared using very finely ground arabica or robusta coffee beans and boiled with sugar in a special pot called a cezve or ibrik to create the perfect amount of froth. Cafe de Alma, just 20 metres from the Old Bridge, is a great spot to sit and relax with a fresh cup!

War Photo Expedition: Want even more information about the war? Head to the War Photo Expedition for a real look into Mostar during the infamous war by perusing photographs taken by New Zealand photographer Wade Goddard. Note that it’s all still quite raw and real, and the captions are exceptionally moving (I almost cried more than once).

Learning about the Bosnian War:

You have to remember that as soon as you step foot into Bosnia, you’re entering a former war zone.

And thankfully, many day trips to Mostar teach some information about the Bosnian War. Many even take you around the city pointing out crumbling buildings covered in bullet holes. Trust me, once you see those derelict buildings it all becomes so real.

Prepare yourself – it’s a visually impactful experience. It hasn’t even been 25 years since the war ended, so no wonder the evidence of the war is still seen today. When you think about it, 25 years is not so long ago at all! I appreciated walking about the town with a former survivor, and just couldn’t get enough of his stories.

If you decide to stay for at least a night and are able to break up Mostar and its surroundings into two separate days, you’ll also be able to visit Blagaj, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most holy and ancient sites.

Blagaj Tekke:

As mentioned above, if you’re able to stay overnight in Mostar, you’ll be able to visit Blagaj as well (there just isn’t enough time on tours coming from Dubrovnik or Split).

Although Blagaj is a small village-town not too far from Mostar, most tours visit one particular spot – the Dervish Monastery, which is nearly 600 years old! There are a few restaurants in town that line the bank of the river Buna, as well as a few tourist shops, but the real showstopper is the Monastery (it’s basically the heart of Blagaj).

You’ll want to take your camera because c’monnnnnn isn’t she a beauty? The reflections in the water are absolutely outstanding.

Besides admiring this unique wonder of nature and distinct piece of Ottoman architecture (it’s nestled into the base of a cliff, tell me that’s not impressive), you can go inside as well for a small fee. Just know that you’ll need to take your shoes off and cover up a bit depending on what you’re wearing.

Thirsty? Take a sip from the river below, as the water’s pure enough to drink from directly (yup, go for it). And if you decided to head to Blagaj independent from a tour, you can even take a brief boat ride into the cave at the start of the river Buna.

We didn’t have enough time because we were off to Pocitelj and Kravice Falls, but it looked like fun! Plus, that green-blue water is something special.

Do you think you’ll be taking a Dubrovnik to Bosnia day trip when visiting Croatia? It’s a long day, but surely worth it! And it’s definitely one of the most popular day trips from Dubrovnik!

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October 5, 2023 at 5:27 am

What a wonderful write up. Thanks for sharing your experience and tips. Recently stopped in Mostar for a few hours with a planned trip taking me through Croatia, Bosnia,Montenegro and Slovenia. Some of my group continued unto Serbia. Reading your article made me realize how much more there is to do and see in Mostar.

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