17 epic things to do in and around Mostar | Bosnia and Herzegovina

The smell of freshly grilled meat and strong Bosnian coffee, colorful streets filled with handmade souvenirs, centuries-old Ottoman buildings, and the impressive Neretva River flowing through the city. Welcome to the enchanting city of Mostar. This unique destination in Bosnia and Herzegovina had been on my bucket list for a long time, and during our Balkan road trip it quickly became one of my favorite stops. From the iconic Stari Most to hidden alleyways and cozy riverside terraces, there are so many incredible things to do in Mostar. In this blog, I’ll share my favorite spots and practical tips to help you plan the perfect visit.

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The enchanting city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar is located in the south of Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled between mountains and along the crystal-clear Neretva River. For centuries, the city has been an important connection between the inland region and the Adriatic coast. Thanks to this strategic location, Mostar grew into a meeting point of different cultures, religions, and trade routes.

It’s hard to describe how I felt when I first walked through the old town. I was surprised, amazed, and completely speechless. Even before I had truly explored the city, I had already fallen in love with it.

Mostar has a rich history that can still be felt everywhere today. Over the centuries, the city was influenced by many different rulers. The Ottoman period in particular left a strong mark on the culture and way of life. You can see these influences not only in the architecture, but also in the atmosphere, traditions, and cuisine. At the same time, Mostar still carries visible scars from the Bosnian War in the 1990s. Old buildings marked with bullet holes serve as reminders of that difficult period.

What touched me most was how unique the atmosphere felt here. At first glance, Mostar looks like a charming European mountain town, with narrow cobbled streets winding between old stone houses. But around every corner, you’ll discover colorful Ottoman details, small tea houses, and traditional market stalls. That combination felt both surprising and incredibly special. For me, the true beauty of Mostar lies in the way different cultures come together so naturally in one place.

How to travel to Mostar?

There are several ways to travel to Mostar from Belgium. The fastest option is by plane. We personally visited Mostar by car during our Balkan road trip, but flying is definitely the best choice if you have less time. Most travelers fly into Sarajevo, Split, or Dubrovnik and then rent a car. This is by far the easiest way to explore the region at your own pace.

Most people visit Mostar as a day trip from Sarajevo or during a holiday in Dubrovnik. And honestly, I completely understand why. If you’re nearby, Mostar is a destination you absolutely shouldn’t miss. From Sarajevo, the drive to Mostar takes around 2.5 hours. From Dubrovnik, it’s just over a 2-hour drive. You can also easily travel by bus from Split to Mostar,, which is a popular option for travelers exploring both Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

You can also easily reach Mostar by public transport. Several trains and buses depart daily from Sarajevo. The train journey is especially famous for being one of the most scenic routes in the Balkans, passing dramatic mountains, tunnels, and deep valleys along the way. There are also regular buses connecting Dubrovnik and Mostar.

If you enjoy road trips, exploring the Balkans by car is an incredible experience. We combined Mostar with other destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, and Montenegro. From Belgium, you should expect a long drive of around 16 to 18 hours, depending on your route and planned stops.

How to get around in Mostar?

Mostar is best explored on foot. Most of the main attractions are located close to one another, and the old town in particular is completely pedestrian-friendly. The narrow cobbled streets make wandering through the city even more charming.

If you’re staying outside the city center, renting a car can be very convenient. It also makes it much easier to visit places outside of Mostar. Do keep in mind that parking in the old town is limited, so it’s usually best to park just outside the busiest areas.

There are also taxis available throughout the city, and they are generally affordable for short distances. Local buses connect different neighborhoods as well, although they are usually less practical for most travelers.

We explored Mostar almost entirely on foot, which I personally found to be the best way to experience the city. You quickly come across hidden alleyways, small local shops, and cozy terraces along the way. For day trips and attractions outside of Mostar, we used our car, which gave us a lot of freedom during our Balkan road trip.

The best time to visit Mostar

Mostar has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The best time to visit Mostar is from June to September, when you can expect plenty of sunshine and pleasant weather.

We visited Mostar during the summer holidays, but it’s important to keep in mind that temperatures in July and August can get extremely high. Especially in the middle of the day, the heat can be intense. Summer is also the busiest season in the old town, as many visitors come on day trips from Dubrovnik or Sarajevo.

Luckily, Mostar feels much quieter in the early morning and late evening. Personally, I found these to be the most beautiful moments to wander through the city. The atmosphere feels far more authentic, and the light is absolutely perfect for photography.

If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, June and September are ideal months to visit.

How many days do you need in Mostar?

Many travelers visit Mostar as a day trip from Sarajevo or Dubrovnik. And while that is definitely possible, since the historic center is quite compact, I personally felt that Mostar deserves far more than just a few hours.

I would highly recommend staying at least one night. In my opinion, Mostar is at its most beautiful in the early morning and late evening. That’s when the city feels much calmer and more authentic. Once the day-trippers leave, you almost have the charming streets entirely to yourself. The soft morning and evening light also make Mostar feel even more magical.

There are also so many beautiful places to visit outside the city, such as Blagaj Tekke, Počitelj, and Kravica Waterfalls. We combined Mostar with several other stops during our Balkan road trip, and that’s what really allowed me to experience the region properly. Because of that, I would recommend spending at least two to three days in Mostar and its surroundings.

Where to stay in Mostar?

Are you looking for a great place to stay in the center of Mostar? I’ve gathered a few beautiful recommendations for you, ranging from authentic Ottoman houses to cozy boutique hotels and stylish apartments.

If you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience, Bosnian National Monument Muslibegovic House is an absolute must. This historic Ottoman house is full of atmosphere and charm. Personally, I found it to be one of the most special places to stay in Mostar.

Prefer to stay in a central location? Then Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija a is a great option. This charming hotel is located right next to the old town and features a beautiful terrace by the water.

Would you rather stay in an apartment? Apartments Villa Mike offers a warm and rustic atmosphere with plenty of authentic details. Perfect if you enjoy cozy accommodations full of character.

For a more modern vibe, City Apartment One is another lovely option. Think boho interiors, light colors, and a touch of Ibiza-style atmosphere right in the heart of Mostar.

Be sure to also check the Booking.com map below to easily compare the best places to stay in Mostar.

17 epic things to do in and around Mostar

1- Explore the historic center of Mostar

When visiting Mostar, you should simply allow yourself to fully embrace the atmosphere of the city. The historic center is best discovered without a strict plan. Wander through the maze of narrow streets and hidden alleyways, admire the charming local shops, and take a break every now and then at one of the many cozy terraces. Everywhere you go, you’ll smell grilled meat, fresh coffee, and traditional Bosnian dishes.

What I personally loved most about Mostar was the unique blend of European and Ottoman influences. Around almost every corner, you’ll discover colorful details, old stone houses, and small market stalls. That’s exactly what makes walking through the old town such an experience in itself.

Make sure to also wander through Mostar in the evening. The city becomes much quieter once the daytime crowds leave. The atmospheric lighting, cozy terraces, and delicious smells of the local cuisine create an almost magical ambiance. Especially on warm summer evenings, I found this to be one of the most enjoyable moments of the day.

2 – Admire the beautiful Stari Most

One of the most famous attractions in Mostar is without a doubt the iconic Stari Most. This impressive bridge was built during the Ottoman era and eventually became the symbol of the city. Sadly, the bridge was destroyed during the Bosnian War, but it was later fully restored. Today, it once again forms the beating heart of Mostar.

When I first saw Stari Most, I immediately understood why everyone is so fascinated by it. The elegant stone bridge combined with the crystal-clear blue waters of the Neretva River creates a truly breathtaking view. Personally, I found this to be one of the most beautiful spots in the city.

The atmosphere around the bridge is also incredibly lively and charming. Street musicians play music, local vendors sell souvenirs, and the surrounding terraces are perfect for enjoying the view.

If you enjoy photography, I highly recommend visiting early in the morning. During the day, this area becomes extremely crowded. In the early hours, however, the atmosphere feels much calmer and you’ll almost have the bridge entirely to yourself. The soft morning light also makes the location even more photogenic.

3. Go souvenir shopping at Old Bazaar Kujundžiluk

Old Bazaar Kujundžiluk is without a doubt one of the most charming places in Mostar. This old Ottoman bazaar is located right next to Stari Most and forms the lively heart of the historic center. The moment you start wandering through its streets, it almost feels like stepping into another world.

The narrow cobbled streets are lined with colorful carpets, traditional souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and small local shops. Everywhere you go, you’ll hear music, smell freshly grilled meat, and discover cozy terraces tucked between old stone buildings.

What I personally loved most was simply wandering around without any plan. Around every corner, you’ll discover hidden spots and beautiful little details. The unique blend of European and Ottoman influences is what makes this neighborhood feel so special.

Do keep in mind that this area can get very crowded during the day, especially in summer. If you want to explore more peacefully or take photos, I recommend visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. The atmosphere feels much calmer and even more magical then.

4 – Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque dates back to the 17th century and is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in Mostar. As you approach the mosque, the elegant minaret immediately catches your attention. Rising high above the historic center, it has become one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Like many other buildings in Mostar, the mosque was heavily damaged during the Bosnian War. Fortunately, it was later fully restored. Today, visitors can once again explore the mosque and gain insight into the city’s Ottoman history.

The courtyard can be visited freely, while access to the mosque and the minaret requires an entrance ticket. Climbing the minaret is absolutely worth it, as it offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views over Mostar, the Neretva River, and Stari Most. Just keep in mind that the staircase inside is extremely narrow.

Plan around one hour for your visit. If you enjoy photography or simply want to take in the view, you could easily stay longer. The mosque is open daily, although opening hours may vary depending on the season.

5 – Visit the Muslibegović House

Located close to Stari Most, Muslibegović House is one of the most beautiful historic buildings in Mostar. This former Ottoman house now functions as both a museum and a hotel. The building has been declared a national monument and offers a unique glimpse into the lives of wealthy families at the end of the 17th century.

What makes this place so special is that almost everything has been preserved in its original state. During your visit, you’ll walk through traditional rooms filled with wooden ceilings, antique furniture, and beautiful Ottoman details. It truly feels like stepping back in time.

Personally, I found this to be one of the most atmospheric places in Mostar. The authentic ambiance left a strong impression on me, and you can genuinely feel the city’s rich history here.

You can visit Muslibegović House as a museum, but it’s also possible to stay overnight at the hotell. If you’re looking for a unique and authentic experience in Mostar, this is definitely a very special place to stay.

Plan around 30 minutes to one hour for your visit.

6 – Go look for the Crooked Bridge

The Crooked Bridge, also known as Kriva Ćuprija, is one of the most charming spots in Mostar. This small stone bridge is located in a quieter area than Stari Most, yet it has just as much atmosphere and character.

The bridge was built in the 16th century and is believed to have served as the inspiration for the later construction of Stari Most. Like many other historic buildings in Mostar, the bridge was damaged during the war but was later fully restored.

What I personally loved most about this place was the calm and cozy atmosphere. Several small terraces are located along the water near the bridge, making it the perfect spot to take a break during your walk through Mostar. Especially in the evening, the atmosphere here feels even more magical.

This is also an incredibly photogenic location thanks to the combination of the old stone bridge, the flowing water, and the surrounding Ottoman buildings.

7 – Learn about Stari Most at the Old Bridge Museum

Old Bridge Museum is located right next to Stari Most and tells the story of the famous bridge and its history. The museum is housed inside one of the old towers next to the bridge and makes for an interesting stop during your visit to Mostar.

Inside, you’ll learn more about the construction of Stari Most during the Ottoman era, as well as its destruction during the Bosnian War and the later reconstruction. Through photographs, documents, and models, you gain a deeper understanding of the historical importance of the bridge for the city.

What I personally found most interesting was how strongly the history of Mostar can still be felt here. It really makes you realize how meaningful Stari Most is to the people of the city.

At the top of the museum, you’ll also enjoy beautiful views over the river and the historic center. Because of that, the museum is not only interesting for history lovers, but also worth visiting for the view alone.

Plan around 30 minutes to one hour for your visit.

8 – Discover the traces of Mostar’s war history at the Sniper Tower

If you want to dive deeper into Mostar’s wartime history, the Sniper Tower is an impressive place to visit. This abandoned building is located close to the city center and served as an important sniper position during the Bosnian War. Today, the building stands empty as a confronting reminder of that dark period.

The heavily damaged walls covered in bullet holes immediately leave a strong impression. Inside, you’ll also find colorful graffiti and street art, creating a striking contrast with the building’s tragic history. This combination makes the place feel raw, powerful, and artistic at the same time.

I personally found this to be one of the most emotional places in Mostar. It really makes you realize how recent the war still is and how deeply it impacted the city.

Do keep in mind that the building is abandoned, so you visit the Sniper Tower entirely at your own risk. Wear sturdy shoes and be careful while exploring inside.

9 – Learn more about Mostar’s War History at the Museum of War and Genocide Victims

As a complement to visiting the Sniper Tower, Museum of War and Genocide Victims is an incredibly valuable place if you want to better understand the war history of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The museum is dedicated to the victims of the Bosnian War between 1992 and 1995 and offers a moving insight into one of the darkest periods in the country’s history.

During your visit, you’ll discover personal stories from victims and survivors. The museum displays photographs, documents, video footage, and personal belongings left behind during the war. As a result, the history feels deeply human and confronting.

I found this to be one of the most impressive museums in Mostar. The visit can be emotionally heavy, but at the same time it is incredibly meaningful. It gives you a much better understanding of the lasting impact the war still has on the country and its people today.

Plan around one to two hours for your visit, and take your time to fully experience the stories and exhibitions.

10 – Discover Mostar’s Ottoman past at the Hamam Museum

If you want to learn more about Mostar’s Ottoman past, then visiting the Hamam Museum is definitely worthwhile. This beautiful 16th- and 17th-century hamam is the only remaining Ottoman bathhouse structure in Mostar. Today, the building serves as both a cultural monument and a museum.

During your visit, you’ll gain insight into everyday life in the past. You’ll learn more about centuries-old hamam rituals, body care traditions, and social customs from the Ottoman era. Through stories, objects, and exhibitions, you’ll discover how important the hamam once was within the local community.

What makes this museum especially interesting is that it introduces you to a lesser-known side of the city. That’s what makes it such a great addition to the more famous attractions in Mostar.

The Hamam Museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10 AM and 6 PM, although opening hours may vary depending on the season.

Plan around 30 minutes to one hour for your visit. If you enjoy reading all the information and exploring the exhibitions in detail, you could easily stay a bit longer.

11 – Taste the local cuisine of Mostar

A visit to Mostar would not be complete without discovering the local cuisine. Thanks to the mix of Balkan, Ottoman, and Mediterranean influences, the flavors here are very different from what you’ll find in the rest of Europe. Personally, I found trying traditional Bosnian food in Mostar to be a huge part of the overall experience.

One of the most famous local dishes is ćevapi, small grilled meat rolls served with flatbread, onions, and sauce. You should also definitely try burek, a savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. In addition, you’ll find dishes such as dolma, stuffed vegetables, and various grilled meat specialties on many menus throughout the city.

Make sure to finish your meal with a traditional Bosnian coffee. It is served in a small copper pot and is truly part of the local culture. Another fun experience is joining a Bosnian cooking workshop, where you not only get to taste the dishes but also learn more about local traditions and cuisine.

For food lovers, I also have two restaurant recommendations. Restoran Kulluk features a cozy rooftop terrace with one of the most beautiful views over Mostar. For authentic Bosnian dishes, I highly recommend Restoran Šadrvan. This is where I tasted some of the best traditional food in the city. Reservations are definitely recommended, especially during the summer months.

12 – Admire the panorama from the Fortica Skywalk viewpoint

If you want to experience one of the most beautiful views over Mostar, then you should definitely visit Fortica Skywalk. This glass viewing platform is located on a hill just outside the city and offers a spectacular panoramic view over Mostar, the Neretva Valley, and the surrounding mountains.

The Skywalk consists of a glass platform that extends partly over the rocks, making it feel as if you’re floating above the city. Especially at sunset, the atmosphere here becomes truly magical. The warm light falling over Mostar creates breathtaking views and beautiful photo opportunities.

Fortica is located about a 10 to 15-minute drive from the center of Mostar. You can easily reach it by car or taxi, and free parking is available near the platform. Access to the Skywalk itself is completely free.

Another great experience is combining the Street art tour with a visit to Fortica Skywalk. During this tour, you first discover the impressive street art in Mostar and learn more about the city’s war history. Afterwards, you end the experience with the stunning views from Fortica. For adventure lovers, there’s even a version of the tour that includes a zipline.

Plan around one to two hours for your visit. For the best atmosphere and lighting, try to go early in the morning or around sunset.

13 – Visit the Tekija Complex in Blagaj

One of the most beautiful attractions near Mostar is without a doubt the Blagaj Tekke. This historic monastery was built for dervishes, spiritual leaders within Islam, and today it still remains an important pilgrimage site for Muslims.

What makes this place so special is its unique location next to the source of the crystal-clear Buna River. The combination of the historic monastery, the dramatic cliffside, and the bright turquoise water creates an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. Personally, I found this to be one of the most beautiful places of our Balkan road trip.

Blagaj is located about a fifteen-minute drive from Mostar. Paid parking is available near the village, and from there it’s only about a five-minute walk to the Tekija complex. That short walk is actually very charming, as you pass small market stalls, terraces, and riverside restaurants along the way.

Entrance to the monastery costs around €4 to €5 per person. Plan around one to two hours for your visit. If you also want to enjoy a meal by the water, you could easily spend even more time here.

If you love fish dishes, I highly recommend Restoran Fajić. Here you can enjoy delicious fresh fish with beautiful views over the Buna River.

14 – Take a boat ride to the Buna River Spring

Would you like to discover more about the famous Buna River? Then a short boat trip to the source of the river is absolutely worth it. Together with a local guide, you’ll sail into the cave where the Buna River begins.

During the tour, you’ll learn more about the river and the origins of this remarkable place. The impressive rock formations and crystal-clear water are especially breathtaking. I was particularly amazed by the reflection of the bright blue water inside the cave. That alone made this short boat trip worthwhile for me.

The boat tours depart close to Blagaj Tekke and usually last around ten to fifteen minutes. In exchange for a small fee, a local guide takes you into the cave.

Plan an additional 20 to 30 minutes for this activity during your visit to Blagaj. Especially on hot summer days, the cave also offers a wonderfully refreshing escape from the heat.

15 – Cool off at the Kravica Waterfalls

If you’re looking to cool off during hot summer days in a stunning natural setting, then Kravica Waterfalls is an absolute must-visit. These impressive waterfalls are located about 45 minutes from Mostar and are one of the most popular day trips in the region.

Paid parking is available near the entrance of the site. During high season, entrance tickets cost around €10 per person. From the parking area, it takes about ten minutes to walk down to the waterfalls. For visitors with limited mobility, there’s also a small tourist train that takes you down for an additional fee.

I personally found this place truly breathtaking. The combination of crystal-clear blue water, lush greenery, and wide cascading waterfalls creates an almost tropical atmosphere. The water is very cold, but that makes it perfect for cooling down on hot summer days.

Around the waterfalls, you’ll find several bars and terraces where you can order drinks and snacks. Because of that, it’s easy to spend half a day or even a full day here. Swimming is also allowed, which makes this spot especially popular during summer.

Do keep in mind that it can get very crowded during the summer months, especially in the middle of the day. The quietest moments are early in the morning or later in the evening, just before sunset.

Plan at least a few hours for your visit. If you want to swim, relax, and enjoy some food or drinks, you could easily spend an entire day here.

16 – Travel back in time in Počitelj

If you still have some extra time during your stay in Mostar, I highly recommend visiting Počitelj. This small historic town is located about 40 minutes from Mostar and is famous for its beautiful Oriental and Ottoman architecture.

The moment you arrive, it feels as if time has stood still. Narrow stone streets wind between old houses, mosques, and historic buildings. What makes this place even more special is its location on the hillside. The higher you walk, the more beautiful the views over the valley become.

What makes Počitelj so unique is its peaceful atmosphere. Compared to Mostar, it feels much calmer and quieter, allowing you to truly take your time wandering through the streets and soaking in the historical charm of the village.

Počitelj is also incredibly photogenic. The combination of old stone buildings, Ottoman details, and panoramic views over the surrounding landscape creates beautiful scenes everywhere you look.

Plan around one to two hours for your visit. You can easily combine Počitelj with Kravica Waterfalls or Blagaj Tekke during a day trip from Mostar.

17 – Go kayaking on the Neretva River near Jablanica

If you want to discover the surroundings of Mostar in a more adventurous way, then kayaking on the Neretva River is absolutely worth it. This experience takes you past hidden spots, impressive canyons, and breathtaking mountain landscapes in Herzegovina.

The kayaking tour starts in Jablanica, located about 40 minutes from Mostar. You can also easily reach Jablanica by public transport from Mostar. During the tour, you paddle through the spectacular Neretva Canyon, surrounded by the mountains of Prenj and Čvrsnica. Personally, I found this to be one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The kayaks are suitable for two adults and optionally one child. Since the water here is generally calm, you can kayak independently without a guide. Along the way, you’ll pass crystal-clear water, steep cliffs, and small hidden beaches. At the end of the route, you’ll find a peaceful beach where you can swim, picnic, and relax.

For the full round trip, you should expect around three hours of paddling. However, I would highly recommend setting aside a full day for this activity, so you have plenty of time to swim and fully enjoy the scenery along the way.

Do keep in mind that the water of the Neretva River is extremely cold, even during summer. But on hot days, that also makes it wonderfully refreshing.

I hope these beautiful things to do in Mostar have inspired you to discover this special city for yourself. For me, Mostar was without a doubt one of the biggest highlights of our Balkan road trip. The unique combination of history, culture, nature, and Ottoman influences makes this destination truly unforgettable.

Yours truly,

Sarah

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