Weekend in Bosnia: Bridges, Waterfalls & Heritage
From Sarajevo's Ottoman Quarter to Mostar's Iconic Bridge
Trip Overview
This carefully crafted weekend itinerary immerses you in Bosnia and Herzegovina's most captivating treasures. Beginning in Sarajevo, you'll explore the rich Ottoman heritage and poignant recent history before journeying south to Mostar's legendary Old Bridge and the mystical Blagaj Tekija. The pace balances cultural exploration with natural wonders, including the stunning Kravica Waterfall. You'll experience traditional Bosnian cuisine, walk through centuries-old bazaars, and witness the harmonious blend of Eastern and Western influences that defines this Balkan gem. This itinerary covers essential highlights while allowing time to absorb the atmosphere of each location, making it perfect for travelers seeking authentic experiences without feeling rushed.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Sarajevo's Soul: Ottoman Heritage & Modern History
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija or Old Town Sarajevo (A guesthouse or mid-range hotel within walking distance of the old bazaar)
Staying in the historic center puts you within easy reach of all major sights and allows you to experience the atmospheric evening ambiance
Mostar's Magic: Iconic Bridges & Mystical Monasteries
Where to Stay Tonight
Mostar Old Town or return to Sarajevo (A traditional Ottoman-style guesthouse in Mostar's historic quarter, or return to Sarajevo if departing early next day)
Staying in Mostar allows you to experience the old town at night when it's beautifully lit and less crowded, perfect for your final evening
Practical Information
Getting Around
For this itinerary, the most practical option is renting a car in Sarajevo, giving you flexibility to visit Blagaj and Kravica at your own pace. Alternatively, join an organized day tour from Sarajevo to Mostar that includes these stops. Within Sarajevo, most attractions are walkable from the old town, though taxis and ride-sharing apps are affordable for longer distances. Intercity buses connect Sarajevo and Mostar regularly but limit your ability to visit multiple sites efficiently in one day.
Book Ahead
Book accommodation in advance, especially during summer months. If joining an organized tour to Mostar, book 2-3 days ahead. Museum tickets can be purchased on-site. Car rentals should be reserved in advance for better rates.
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes, modest clothing for religious sites, swimwear for Kravica, light jacket for evenings, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, power adapter (European two-pin), and some cash in BAM (Convertible Marks)
Total Budget
$175-245 for 2 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels in Sarajevo's old town ($15-25/night), eat at local bakeries and ćevapi stands ($3-5 per meal), use public buses between cities ($10-15), skip organized tours and navigate independently, pack picnic lunches, and focus on free attractions like walking through historic quarters, parks, and viewpoints. Total budget can drop to $50-70 per day.
Luxury Upgrade
Book boutique heritage hotels in restored Ottoman houses ($150-250/night), hire a private driver-guide for the entire weekend ($200-300), dine at upscale restaurants featuring modern interpretations of Bosnian cuisine with wine pairings, arrange a private after-hours tour of the Old Bridge area, enjoy spa treatments at your hotel, and add a helicopter tour over Mostar. Budget increases to $350-500 per day.
Family-Friendly
Add visits to the Museum of Optical Illusions Sarajevo for interactive fun, allow extra time at Kravica Waterfall for swimming and picnicking, choose family-run guesthouses with larger rooms, incorporate ice cream breaks in Baščaršija, skip the genocide museum for younger children, take the cable car up Trebević mountain for panoramic views and outdoor activities, and consider staying two nights in Sarajevo to reduce packing and unpacking.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina