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

Things to Do in Mostar

Mostar, Bosna i Hercegovina / Босна и Херцеговина - Complete Travel Guide

Mostar, the cultural heart of Herzegovina, is a mesmerizing city where East meets West along the emerald waters of the Neretva River. The city's crown jewel is the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage masterpiece that has become a symbol of reconciliation and unity. This 16th-century Ottoman bridge connects the historic quarters of the city, where cobblestone streets wind past traditional Turkish houses, ancient mosques, and bustling bazaars. Beyond its famous bridge, Mostar offers visitors a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from exploring Ottoman-era architecture and sampling traditional Bosnian cuisine to witnessing the dramatic bridge diving tradition. The city's complex history is visible everywhere, creating a unique atmosphere where minarets and church bells coexist, and where the scars of recent conflict have given way to remarkable resilience and renewal.

Top Things to Do in Mostar

Explore the Historic Old Town and Stari Most

Wander through the atmospheric cobblestone streets of Mostar's Old Town, centered around the magnificent Stari Most bridge. The area features traditional Ottoman architecture, artisan shops, and stunning views of the Neretva River. Don't miss the nearby Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque with its panoramic minaret views.

Booking Tip: Entry to the Old Town 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. Many walking tours are available for 15-25 BAM per person.

Watch Traditional Bridge Diving

Witness the centuries-old tradition of young men diving 24 meters from Stari Most into the icy Neretva River below. This spectacular display of courage and skill has been practiced for over 400 years and represents a rite of passage for local youth. The official competition takes place annually in July.

Booking Tip: Spontaneous dives happen throughout the day when enough tips are collected (usually 25-30 EUR). The annual diving competition in July requires tickets (20-40 BAM). Best viewing spots are from the bridge itself or riverside cafes.

Visit War Photo Exhibition and Historical Sites

Gain insight into Mostar's recent turbulent history through powerful exhibitions and preserved war sites. The War Photo Exhibition provides a sobering look at the 1990s conflict, while walking through different quarters reveals the city's division and remarkable recovery.

Booking Tip: War Photo Exhibition entrance is 10 BAM. Many historical walking tours cost 20-30 BAM and provide essential context. Book tours with local guides who lived through the conflict for the most authentic perspective.

Day Trip to Blagaj Tekke and Pocitelj

Venture to the mystical Blagaj Tekke, a 600-year-old Dervish monastery built into a cliff beside the source of the Buna River. Continue to the medieval fortress town of Pocitelj, a UNESCO site with stunning stone architecture and panoramic views over the Neretva valley.

Booking Tip: Organized day trips cost 40-60 BAM including transport. Alternatively, rent a car for 30-40 BAM per day. Entry to Blagaj Tekke is 5 BAM, Pocitelj is 5 BAM. Combine both sites in half a day.

Experience Traditional Bosnian Cuisine

Savor authentic Bosnian specialties like cevapi, burek, and dolma in traditional restaurants around the Old Town. Many establishments offer cooking classes where you can learn to prepare local dishes and understand the cultural significance of Bosnian cuisine.

Booking Tip: Traditional meals cost 15-25 BAM per person. Cooking classes range from 40-80 BAM including meal. Book classes in advance, especially during summer. Look for family-run restaurants for the most authentic experience.

Getting There

Mostar is accessible by bus from major Balkan cities, with regular connections from Sarajevo (2.5 hours, 15-20 BAM), Dubrovnik (3 hours, 25-30 BAM), and Split (4 hours, 30-40 BAM). The city has a small airport with limited flights, mainly seasonal connections to European cities. Many visitors arrive by car, as Mostar sits on the main highway connecting the Adriatic coast with Sarajevo. Train service is limited and not recommended for international travelers.

Getting Around

Mostar's compact Old Town is best explored on foot, with most major attractions within walking distance of each other. The city center is small enough to cross in 15-20 minutes. Local buses connect outer neighborhoods for 1.5 BAM per ride, though tourists rarely need them. Taxis are available for longer distances at reasonable rates (5-15 BAM for most trips). For day trips to surrounding attractions like Blagaj or Pocitelj, consider renting a car or joining organized tours.

Where to Stay

Old Town Historic Center
East Bank (Stari Grad)
West Bank Modern Area
Near Rondo Roundabout
Bisce Polje District
Along Neretva Riverfront

Food & Dining

Mostar's dining scene centers around traditional Bosnian cuisine with strong Ottoman influences. The Old Town area offers numerous restaurants serving cevapi, grilled meats, and traditional stews, though prices can be touristy. For authentic experiences, venture slightly away from the main bridge area to find family-run establishments. Don't miss trying local specialties like Mostar's famous stuffed peppers, fresh trout from the Neretva River, and traditional sweets like baklava and tufahije. Many restaurants offer beautiful terraces overlooking the river, perfect for enjoying meals with scenic views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Spazio Gourmet

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Nello

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Mostar is late spring through early fall (May to September) when the weather is warm and perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions. July and August are peak tourist season with the warmest weather but also the largest crowds and highest prices. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful lighting for photography. Winter can be cold and some tourist services may be limited, but the city takes on a magical quality with fewer visitors and a more authentic local atmosphere.

Insider Tips

Visit Stari Most at sunrise for magical lighting and no crowds - it's completely different from the busy daytime scene
Exchange money at local exchange offices rather than banks for better rates, and always carry some cash as many places don't accept cards
Climb the minaret of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque just before sunset for the most spectacular views of the bridge and old town

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