Things to Do in Blagaj, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина

Blagaj is a picturesque village in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located about 12 kilometers southeast of Mostar along the Neretva River. This enchanting destination is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, centered around the mystical Buna River spring that emerges from a dramatic cliff face. The village is home to one of Europe's most photogenic monasteries, the 16th-century Blagaj Tekke, a Sufi monastery built directly into the cliffside beside the crystal-clear spring waters. Despite its small size, Blagaj offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Bosnia's rich cultural heritage and natural splendor. The village serves as a perfect day trip destination from Mostar, combining spiritual significance, architectural beauty, and pristine natural landscapes. The turquoise waters of the Buna spring, flowing at a constant temperature year-round, create an almost otherworldly atmosphere that has inspired pilgrims, poets, and travelers for centuries.

Top Things to Do in Blagaj

Visit Blagaj Tekke Monastery

Explore this stunning 16th-century Sufi monastery built directly into the cliffside beside the Buna River spring. The wooden structure seems to float above the turquoise waters, creating one of the most photographed sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Inside, you can learn about Sufi traditions and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this active place of worship.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 3-5 BAM (1.5-2.5 EUR). Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Dress modestly as it's an active religious site. No advance booking required.

Explore Buna River Spring

Marvel at one of Europe's most powerful karst springs, where the Buna River emerges from underground caves at the base of a 200-meter cliff. The spring produces around 43,000 liters of water per second, maintaining a constant temperature of 10°C year-round. The incredibly clear, turquoise waters create a magical atmosphere perfect for photography and contemplation.

Booking Tip: Free to visit and explore. Best experienced in combination with the tekke visit. Wear comfortable shoes as paths can be slippery near the water. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy by the spring.

Dine at Riverside Restaurants

Experience traditional Bosnian cuisine at one of several restaurants built on wooden platforms directly over the Buna River. Enjoy fresh trout, traditional dishes like ćevapi and burek, while listening to the gentle flow of spring water beneath your feet. The setting provides an unforgettable dining experience combining excellent food with stunning natural beauty.

Booking Tip: Meals cost 15-25 BAM (7-12 EUR) per person. No reservations typically needed except in peak summer. Try the fresh trout which is caught locally. Most restaurants accept cash only.

Hike to Viewpoints

Take short hiking trails around Blagaj to reach elevated viewpoints offering spectacular panoramic views of the tekke, spring, and surrounding countryside. The trails provide different perspectives of this natural wonder and are suitable for most fitness levels. The contrast between the lush green valley and dramatic limestone cliffs creates perfect photo opportunities.

Booking Tip: Free activity requiring only comfortable hiking shoes. Trails are well-marked but can be steep in places. Allow 1-2 hours for the full circuit. Best avoided during midday heat in summer.

Photography and Nature Watching

Capture the ethereal beauty of Blagaj's unique landscape, from the monastery's reflection in the spring waters to the dramatic interplay of architecture and nature. The area is also excellent for bird watching, with various species attracted to the pristine water source. The changing light throughout the day offers different moods and photographic opportunities.

Booking Tip: Bring a good camera and tripod for best results. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) provides the most dramatic lighting. Free activity, though consider hiring a local guide for 20-30 BAM for insider photography spots.

Getting There

Blagaj is easily accessible from Mostar, located just 12 kilometers southeast of the city. The most convenient option is driving or taking a taxi, which takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around 15-20 BAM. Local buses run several times daily from Mostar's main bus station to Blagaj village for about 3 BAM. Many visitors combine Blagaj with other nearby attractions like Počitelj as part of a day trip. If staying in Sarajevo, organized tours are available, or you can take a bus to Mostar first (2.5 hours) then continue to Blagaj.

Getting Around

Blagaj is a small village that can easily be explored on foot within 30 minutes. The main attractions - the tekke, spring, and restaurants - are all within walking distance of each other along well-maintained paths. Parking is available near the entrance to the site for those arriving by car (small fee may apply). The terrain includes some uneven surfaces and steps, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. For those with mobility issues, the tekke and main viewing areas are accessible, though some hiking trails may be challenging.

Where to Stay

Mostar Old Town

Mostar City Center

Počitelj Village

Jablanica

Konjic

Međugorje

Food & Dining

Blagaj's dining scene centers around several traditional restaurants built on wooden platforms over the Buna River, offering a unique dining experience literally above the spring waters. These establishments specialize in fresh trout caught from local waters, along with traditional Bosnian dishes like ćevapi, pljeskavica, and various grilled meats. The restaurants also serve excellent Bosnian coffee and traditional sweets like baklava. Most venues operate seasonally and accept cash only, with meals typically costing 15-25 BAM per person. The combination of excellent food, reasonable prices, and the magical setting of dining over crystal-clear spring water makes every meal memorable.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Blagaj is from April to October when weather is pleasant and all facilities are fully operational. Spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures, blooming nature, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography and peaceful exploration. Summer (June-August) brings warm weather perfect for outdoor dining and longer daylight hours, though it can be crowded with tour groups. Early autumn (September-October) provides excellent weather with beautiful fall colors and fewer visitors. Winter visits are possible but some restaurants may be closed, and the experience is quite different with bare trees and cooler temperatures, though the spring maintains its mystical beauty year-round.

Insider Tips

Visit early morning (8-9 AM) or late afternoon for the best lighting and to avoid tour groups that typically arrive mid-morning

Bring cash as most restaurants and vendors don't accept cards, and there are no ATMs in the village itself

Combine your visit with nearby Počitelj medieval town (15 minutes away) for a full day of exploring Herzegovina's cultural treasures

Things to Do in Blagaj