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Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe, Itineraries
Epic things to do in and around Mostar | Bosnia and Herzegovina
14
Aug
Aug
In this blog post, I will take you with me to the enchanting town of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Discover the best things to see and do in Mostar right here.
Growing up in the 90s, I heard and saw a lotย about Bosnia and Herzegovina in the daily news. Despite this country’s turbulent past, I’ve somehow always been intrigued by it. When we planned a Balkan road trip this was definitely one of the countries Iย wanted to visit. I did some research on the most beautiful places in Bosnia and Herzegovina and when I saw Mostar on my screen I was hooked!
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The enchanting town of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina
It’s hard to describe how I felt walking through the old town of Mostar for the first time. I think the best feeling to describe it, is astonishment.
Mostar has a rich history that you still can witness today, from the many cultural influences among various rulers to the recent traces of the Bosnian war. In Bosnia and Herzegovina and especially in Mostar a very unique culture has been developed that I havenโt experienced anywhere else.
At first sight, I found Mostar to look like a beautiful little European mountain town with small, winding and cobbled streets. But I was surprised by an explosion of beautiful, colorful Ottoman influences. I noticed this in the architecture and decoration, but also in the way of life and in the delicious traditional cuisine.
The funny thing is that I didn’t expect this at all in Europe. This made the first encounter with Mostar even more special. The beauty of Mostar for me lays not only in what I saw and experienced, but in what I felt, namely the harmonious coexistence of a multicultural population.
How to get to Mostar?
Most people plan a visit to Mostar in the form of a day trip from the capital Sarajevo or from serveral popular vacation spots in Croatia. You can easily travel by bus from Split to Mostar, or even from Dubrovnik.ย If you are planning to do this, I can only encourage you. If you are that close, you should definitely visit Mostar.
Also check out the offers of Getyourguide day trips. This way you do not have to plan anything yourself, but the day trip from your vacation destination is completely arranged for you.
If you have some more time, I would recommend that you stay 2 or 3 days in Mostar. This way you will have time to discover the sights within Mostar as well as the beautiful surroundings around the city.
When is the best time to travel to Mostar?
Mostar has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and dry summers. The best time to travel to Mostar is between June and September. Keep in mind that it can be a bit busier during the summer months of July and August. However, since the majority of visitors are day trippers, it is significantly quieter in early mornings and late evenings.
The best things to see and do in Mostar
1. Historical centre of Mostar
Discover the historical centre of Mostar by indulging in the city. Explore the streets and little alleys by wandering around, admire the beautiful local shops and enjoy a drink or a delicious local snack on one of the many cosy terraces.
The city is also great to visit during the evening. At that time it is much quieter than during the day. The street lighting, the cozy atmosphere and the wonderful scent of the local cuisine creates a magical atmosphere.
When you have the opportunity, venture beyond Mostar’s historical center and explore Alekse ล antiฤa Street to admireย Mostar’s beautiful street art.
2. Stari Most
The most famous landmark of Mostar is of course the famous bridge “Stari Most”. It was built in the Ottoman era and bombed during the Bosnian war. Fortunately, they were able to restore this bridge. After seeing this impressive eye-catcher myself, I completely agree with its reputation. This is simply beautiful. I’m a fan!
For the photographers reading this, go early to avoid crowds.
3. Koski Pasha Mosque
The Koski Pasha Mosque, dating back to the 17th century,ย is a wonderful example of Ottoman architecture in Mostar. The eye-catcher here is of course the impressive minaret. This mosque was also heavily damaged by the war in the 90s. Fortunately, they have also been able to restore everything. Today you can visit the Mosque and climb the minaret yourself, but you’ll have to pay a little entrance fee . You can visit the courtyard freely.
4. Muslibegovic house
Near the Stari Most you will find Muslibegovic National Monument, which now serves as a museum and hotel. Here you can admire how nobles lived at the end of the 17th century. Everything is kept in original condition. If you want to have an authentic stay in Mostar, then this is definitely the place to be.
5. The museum of war and genocide victims
This museum is dedicated to the victims of the genocide during the Bosnian war in 1992-1995. Here you can experience their stories by seeing their personal belongings and so much more. Very interesting if you want to know more about the terrible scenes that took place in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 90s
6. The hamam museum
This beautiful 16th – 17th century Ottoman hammam is the only remaining hammam in Mostar from the Ottoman era. Today it’s a cultural monument that takes visitors through beautiful stories into the daily life of the past and the ancient rituals of the hammam.
Where to eat in Mostar
For the foodies reading this, I have two excellent restaurant tips where you can eat the best Bosnian food.
Restoran Kulluk has one of the best roof top terraces in town with one of the most beautiful views of Mostar. The restaurant with the best tradional food is Restoran ล adrvan. For the latter it’s best to make a reservation.
Where to stay in Mostar?
During our travels we like to stay in authentic places. Accommodations that tell us more about the destination, but also about the culture. In Mostar you definitely have the opportunity to do this. The most authentic places to stay, in my opinion, are Villa Anri and Bosnian National Monument Muslibegovic House.ย
Of course everyone has a different preference based on wishes and budget. Below you can certainly find several options.
The best things to see and do around Mostar
1. Tekija complex in Blagaj
A first must -see outside Mostar is the Tekija complex in Blagaj. This is an old monastery for Dervish. The Dervish are important spiritual leaders within Islam. Today this complex it is still an important pilgrimage place for Muslims. The old Dervish house is located alongside the source of the Buna river. And this makes the place extra special.ย ย The entrance fee is about 2 euros per person.
Blagaj is about fifteen minutes by car from Mostar. You can easily park there, but you will have to payย a parking fee about 2 euros for 2 hours. From the parking till the Tekija complex it is a 5-minute walk alongside the Buna River. The walk is nice because you pass all sorts of stalls and cosy restaurants where you can sit with a front row view of the bright blue Buna and eat delicious food. If you like fish dishes I recommend Restoran FAJIฤ where you can eat very tasty and fresh fish.
If you want to know more about the source of the Buna, you can enter the cave with a boat for just a few euros. Inside a guide tells you everything about the source. Just seeing the reflection of bright blue water in the cave makes this short boat trip worthwhile.
2. Kravice waterfalls
If you are looking to cool down in a beautiful natural environment, this is the prefect spot. The Kravice waterfalls are a forty-five-minute drive from Mostar. You can park your car for free, but you have to pay 5 euros to enter the domain. It’s about a ten-minute walk from the parking lot to the waterfalls. People that have trouble walking, I would advise taking the little tourist train from the parking lot to the waterfalls.
The Kravice waterfalls are just gorgeous! The water is very cold, but ideal to cool down during a hot summer day.
There are also bars with refreshing drinks and snacks. So you can perfectly make a day trip, but keep in mind that it is very busy during the day. Best times to visit and find a perfect tanning spot are mornings and early evenings.
3. Pocitelj
If you have any time left, donโt forget visit Pocitelj. It’s a historical town with beautiful oriental and Ottoman architecture.
If you want to discover more sights in and around Mostar in an original and unique way, be sure to check out Getyourguide’s offer below.
I hope I have convinced you with a variety of amazing things to see and do in Mostar and to take some time to explore this enchanting city and its beautiful surroundings.
What things would you like to see or do in or around Mostar? Let me know in the comments below.
If you are planning a Balkan road trip , don’t forget to check out our Balkan itinerary. If you’re visiting Sarajevo as well check out our guide on the best bars in Sarajevo.
Thank you for reading!
Yours truly,
Sarah
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I absolutely loved Mostar! We went around Herzegovina to see the top attractions like you did but I honestly preferred strolling around the cobbled streets in Mostar. So beautiful!
Mostar is such a gorgeous town and so unique. I would love to revisit rather sooner that later.
Salve per entrare in bosnia con la nostra auto dobbiamo fare l’assicurazione a parte.Sapete come Possiamo fare?grazie mille
Hi Alessandra,
I don’t speak Italian but I could translate it through an app. We didn’t need to have an extra insurance. As someone who travels a lot I have a travel insurance included in my car insurance. But we didn’t need to buy an extra one.
With kind regards,
Sarah
I’m obsessed with your photos! Mostar looks absolutely beautiful.
Thank you Shay! That’s so kind of you! ๐
Wow such exotic places! Thanks for the great information!
Oh thank you! Mostar is so gorgeous indeed.
Wow! Mostar looks so stunning. I wanted to visit the Balkans this summer and Mostar was on my itinerary, but looks like I have to wait until next year. I will totally be keeping this handy Sarah! ๐
Oh Taylor, you’ll love Mostar! Hope you can travel there next year ๐
Awesome post. Great town to visit. Unfortunately only spent one day there. Would love to go back.
Oh yes, most people do. And it’s totally possible because it’s such a small town. But the surroundings are so great too. So a day more is a plus ๐
Wow! Never even heard of Mostar! Looks amazing – thank you so much for sharing. Love your photos!!
Thank you Ilene! That means the world to me!
This place is so fascinating! I had never heard of Mostar up until now. Such a lovely mix of culture, history and natural beauty. Definitely saving this one for my future travels..
Yes Lekha, you described it perfect. I really hope you’re able to visit soon. You’ll love it!
There are some seriously beautiful gems here! That bridge is stunning!
I know, right? This town is absolutely magical!
This post is so inspiring – Mostar looks absolutely stunning. I’m planning to visit Croatia next summer and had seen the option to visit this adorable town for the day. Now, I’m certain it’s worth the trip!
Oh yes, definitely do a day trip or even a couple of days. You won’t regret it!
Mostar has been on my list for the longest time!!! I live so close now, but there are no direct connections between Greece and Bosnia so I will need to see how I arrange this.
Oh, I really hope you will get there. It will be so worth it!
Oh my goodness, those waterfalls! Mostar looks absolutely gorgeous and I 100% want to visit.
Yes, Mostar and surroundings are sooooo enchanting! You will love it ๐
Your photos are so beautiful! I have always wanted to visit that area and hope I will be able to in the next few years. Thank you for these great tips ๐ Pinned for later!
Thank you Kelly. I hope you can travel there in the future ๐
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a big place on my bucket list! Thank you for sharing all the photos and information ๐
I hope you can visit soon. It’s such a great country.