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

Mostar, the crown jewel of Herzegovina, is a captivating city where East meets West along the emerald waters of the Neretva River. Famous worldwide for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece that gracefully arches over the river, Mostar tells the story of centuries of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences through its cobblestone streets and distinctive architecture. Beyond its postcard-perfect bridge, Mostar enchants visitors with its bustling Ottoman-era bazaar, traditional copper workshops, and the haunting beauty of its war-torn yet resilient spirit. The city serves as a living museum of Bosnian history, where minarets and church bells create a unique soundscape, and where the aroma of Bosnian coffee mingles with the scent of grilled ćevapi from local eateries.

Top Things to Do in Mostar

Explore the Old Bridge and Historic Center

Marvel at the 16th-century Stari Most, an architectural masterpiece rebuilt after the war, and wander through the atmospheric old town with its Ottoman-era buildings. Watch brave local divers leap from the bridge into the Neretva River below, a tradition dating back centuries. The surrounding historic center offers stunning viewpoints and photo opportunities at every turn.

Booking Tip: Entry to the bridge area is free, but climbing the mosque minaret costs around 5-10 BAM. Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Bridge diving shows happen sporadically throughout the day in summer.

Discover Traditional Crafts in the Bazaar

Stroll through Kujundžiluk, the historic bazaar street lined with traditional workshops and souvenir shops. Watch skilled artisans craft copper items, browse handmade carpets, and hunt for authentic Bosnian handicrafts. The narrow cobblestone street preserves centuries-old trading traditions and offers insight into local craftsmanship.

Booking Tip: No booking required for browsing, but bargaining is expected. Quality copper items range from 20-100 BAM. Visit mid-morning when shops are open but crowds are lighter. Look for authentic handmade items rather than mass-produced souvenirs.

Visit Historic Mosques and Religious Sites

Explore the beautiful Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque with its stunning minaret offering panoramic city views, and visit other significant religious sites including the Franciscan Church. These sacred spaces showcase Mostar's diverse religious heritage and provide insight into the city's multicultural identity.

Booking Tip: Mosque entry typically costs 5-8 BAM including minaret access. Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering. Best visited during non-prayer times, with sunset offering spectacular views from the minaret.

Take a Neretva River Experience

Enjoy the emerald waters of the Neretva River through various activities like boat rides or riverside walks. The crystal-clear, incredibly cold water creates a stunning contrast against the ancient stone architecture. Some brave visitors even attempt swimming in the river's frigid waters.

Booking Tip: Boat rides cost around 10-20 BAM per person for short trips. River activities are best from April to October. Water temperature remains very cold year-round, so swimming is only for the very brave.

Experience Traditional Bosnian Cuisine

Savor authentic Bosnian dishes at traditional restaurants serving ćevapi, burek, and other local specialties while enjoying views of the Old Bridge. Many restaurants offer terrace dining with spectacular bridge views, creating an unforgettable dining experience. Don't miss trying Bosnian coffee served in traditional copper sets.

Booking Tip: Meals range from 15-40 BAM per person. Restaurants with bridge views charge premium prices but offer unbeatable atmosphere. Make reservations for dinner, especially for terrace seating during peak season.

Getting There

Mostar is accessible by bus from major Balkan cities, with regular connections from Sarajevo (2.5 hours), Dubrovnik (3 hours), and Split (4 hours). The city has a small airport with limited flights, mainly seasonal connections to European cities. Most visitors arrive by rental car or organized tours from Croatia or other parts of Bosnia. The drive from Sarajevo offers scenic mountain views, while the route from the Croatian coast provides stunning countryside vistas.

Getting Around

Mostar's historic center is compact and best explored on foot, with most major attractions within a 15-minute walk of each other. The cobblestone streets can be slippery and uneven, so comfortable walking shoes are essential. Local buses serve outer neighborhoods, but tourists rarely need them. Taxis are available and affordable for longer distances, while parking near the old town can be challenging during peak season.

Where to Stay

Old Town Historic Center

East Bank Near the Bridge

West Bank Modern Area

Bulevar Area

Rondo District

Sjeverni Logor

Food & Dining

Mostar's culinary scene centers around traditional Bosnian cuisine, with numerous restaurants offering spectacular bridge views alongside hearty local dishes. The old town features atmospheric eateries serving ćevapi, pljeskavica, and fresh trout from the Neretva River, while traditional kafanas provide an authentic dining experience with live folk music. Don't miss the ritual of Bosnian coffee service, and try local specialties like Mostar's famous onions and regional wines from nearby Herzegovina vineyards.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Mostar is late spring through early fall (May to September), when weather is warm and perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions. Summer brings the liveliest atmosphere with bridge diving performances and bustling cafe terraces, though it's also the most crowded and expensive period. Spring and early fall offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful lighting for photography, while winter can be cold and some tourist services may have reduced hours.

Insider Tips

Visit the bridge at sunrise for magical lighting and no crowds - it's completely different from the busy daytime scene

Try the local Blagaj spring and Dervish house, just 15 minutes away, for a mystical experience often missed by day-trippers

Exchange money at local exchange offices rather than using ATMs to get better rates, and always carry some cash as many places don't accept cards

Things to Do in Mostar