Things to Do in Neum

Neum occupies a unique position as Bosnia and Herzegovina's only coastal town, stretching along a narrow 20-kilometer strip of Adriatic coastline that separates the northern and southern parts of Croatia. This small seaside resort actually serves as an important corridor for landlocked Bosnia, though most travelers encounter it as either a brief border crossing or a surprisingly pleasant beach destination. The town itself has a laid-back Mediterranean feel that's distinctly different from the rest of Bosnia - you'll find palm trees, seafront promenades, and a pace of life that revolves around the sea rather than the mountains that dominate the country's interior. What makes Neum particularly interesting is how it functions as both a practical necessity and an accidental tourist destination. The coastline was originally awarded to Bosnia through Ottoman-era agreements, and today it provides the country with crucial access to international waters. For visitors, this translates to a place that feels authentically Bosnian yet unmistakably coastal, with excellent seafood, reasonable prices compared to neighboring Croatian resorts, and beaches that tend to be less crowded than their famous counterparts in Dubrovnik or Split.

The dining scene revolves around seafood, as you'd expect from Bosnia's only coastal town, with restaurants ranging from simple family-run places to more upscale establishments with sea views. You'll find the freshest fish along the waterfront, where many restaurants display their daily catch and prepare it simply grilled with local olive oil and herbs. Prices tend to be quite reasonable compared to Croatian coastal towns - expect excellent fish dinners for 25-40 BAM and quality local wines for 15-25 BAM per bottle. Beyond seafood, several restaurants serve traditional Bosnian dishes with a coastal twist, and you'll find the usual mix of pizza places and casual cafes for lighter meals. The Hotel Neum restaurant offers more formal dining with panoramic views, while smaller konobas (taverns) provide authentic local atmosphere and often the most memorable meals.

The peak season runs from June through August when the weather is warmest and all tourist facilities operate at full capacity, though this also means higher prices and more crowded beaches. May and September offer excellent alternatives with warm weather, lower accommodation costs, and a more relaxed atmosphere - the sea remains pleasant for swimming well into September. Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures perfect for hiking and sightseeing, though some restaurants and hotels may have limited hours. Winter visits are possible but quite quiet, as this is primarily a summer destination and many tourist facilities close or reduce operations. Weather-wise, summers are typically hot and dry with temperatures reaching 25-30°C, while spring and fall offer comfortable 18-25°C ranges with occasional rain that usually passes quickly.