Mostar is not only one of the most well-known destinations in Bosnia, but also one of the most captivating. Set along the banks of the Neretva River, this city is famous for the Stari Most—a stunning arched bridge that gracefully links the east and west sides of town. Though it was completely destroyed during the war, the bridge has been carefully rebuilt and now stands as a proud symbol of resilience, earning its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The Old Town of Mostar has also been largely restored and is part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage status, yet it still feels incredibly authentic. As you stroll through its cobbled streets, you’ll come across charming Ottoman-era houses, small mosques, and lively market stalls selling handmade crafts and traditional copperware. At the same time, the city embraces modern life, with colorful street art, riverside terraces perfect for a drink, and souvenir shops filled with local treats.
Wondering what there is to see and do in and around Mostar? In this blog, we’ll guide you through the city’s highlights and share a few easy day trips that are well worth adding to your itinerary.
Where is Mostar located in Bosnia?
In the Heart of Herzegovina
Mostar sits in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the region known as Herzegovina. Along with Bosnia, it makes up the two regions that form the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is tucked into a broad valley along the Neretva River, surrounded by rugged mountains and blessed with a hot, dry climate during the summer.
Often described as the cultural heart of Herzegovina, Mostar is home to around 100,000 people. Its convenient location between Sarajevo and the Croatian coast makes it a popular stop on many Balkan road trips. Thanks to its southern setting, the temperatures here are usually much warmer than in the northern parts of the country. Ideal if you’re planning to visit outside the busy summer months.
Mostar as a Day Trip from Croatia
Mostar is just a short distance from the Croatian border, making it a popular choice for a day trip from Dubrovnik or Split. The drive from Split takes a little over two hours, while getting there from Dubrovnik takes about two and a half. The journey is part of the experience: you’ll pass rolling hills, winding rivers, charming villages, and catch glimpses of mountain views along the way.
If you’re traveling by car, you’ll have the flexibility to make a few scenic stops en route, like the stunning Kravica Waterfalls or the historic village of Počitelj. Don’t have your own transport? That’s not a problem. There are plenty of guided tours that leave from coastal towns in Croatia. These tours often include other nearby highlights too, such as Blagaj or Međugorje.
A guided tour is a convenient option if you’re short on time or simply don’t feel like driving. You’ll be picked up at your accommodation, everything is taken care of for you, and you’ll get to explore several beautiful spots in just one day.
Staying Overnight in Mostar
For the best experience, it’s a good idea to stay in or near Mostar’s historic city center. The Old Town is filled with charming places to stay, and if you look just beyond the center, you’ll find some great budget-friendly options too. Wherever you choose, make sure your hotel is within walking distance of the Old Town. It’s the heart of the city, and staying nearby means you’ll be close to everything worth seeing.
Mostar’s selection of hotels is surprisingly varied. From sleek, modern boutique hotels to cozy stays in beautifully restored historic buildings, there’s something for every taste. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite places to stay. All of them comfortable, full of character, and perfect for making your visit extra special.
Booking.com (function(d, sc, u) { var s = d.createElement(sc), p = d.getElementsByTagName(sc)[0]; s.type = ‘text/javascript’; s.async = true; s.src = u + ‘?v=’ + (+new Date()); p.parentNode.insertBefore(s,p); })(document, ‘script’, ‘//cf.bstatic.com/static/affiliate_base/js/flexiproduct.js’);The Best Places to Stay in Mostar:
#1 Hotel Pasha is a charming, small-scale boutique hotel tucked away in a quiet spot, perfect for a relaxing stay. The rooms are sleek, stylish, and thoughtfully designed — the kind you’d expect to see in a glossy interior design magazine. One of the hotel’s best features is its rooftop terrace, offering not just lovely views over the city but also a refreshing outdoor pool. It’s the ideal place to unwind and cool off after a warm day of exploring Mostar.
#2 Muslibegović House is a beautifully preserved 18th-century Ottoman mansion that doubles as both a museum and a hotel. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, with rooms full of antique furniture, handwoven rugs, and original carved wooden ceilings. It’s a truly special experience and a chance to immerse yourself in Mostar’s rich cultural history while enjoying a memorable and atmospheric overnight stay.
#3 Hotel Villa Milas is a modern, comfortable hotel in an unbeatable location right in the Old Town. With more than 2,000 glowing guest reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among visitors. Guests love the generous breakfast buffet, the convenience of free parking right outside, and the excellent balance between quality and price. If you want comfort and location without breaking the bank, this hotel is a great pick.
#4 Shangri La Mansion is a boutique hotel with a modern, elegant feel and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The beautifully decorated rooms are cozy and stylish, and the rooftop terrace is a real highlight. From here, you can enjoy stunning views over the Stari Most and the surrounding Old Town. The location is unbeatable, right in the historic center, with Mostar’s top sights just a short stroll away.
#5 Hotel Mepas is set a little farther from the city center, but it more than makes up for it with its luxury facilities and glowing reviews. This upscale hotel offers a wellness area, a swimming pool, and spacious rooms with all the comforts you could want. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking to treat yourself. From the upper floors, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Mostar — the perfect way to start or end your day.
What is Mostar Known for?
Mostar is famous for its striking bridge over the Neretva River, its rich mix of cultures and religions, the visible marks left by war, and its breathtaking location between mountains and river. It’s this rare combination that makes Mostar truly stand out from other cities in the Balkans.
At the heart of it all is the Stari Most, the city’s most iconic landmark. This elegant stone arch has linked the two sides of Mostar since the 16th century, or more accurately, since 2004. The original bridge was destroyed during the war, but it was painstakingly rebuilt, stone by stone, in a powerful act of restoration. Today, it’s not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but a living symbol of Mostar’s resilience, and a popular spot where daring locals dive into the river from impressive heights.
What makes Mostar feel so special is the way it brings together different cultures in such a seamless, natural way. Few places offer such a blend: you’ll find Ottoman details, Catholic church spires, and Austro-Hungarian facades all within a few steps of each other. One moment you’re walking past a mosque, the next a Catholic church. Along the way, you’ll pass charming teahouses, modern cafés, and cobbled streets that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.
The scars of war are still a part of the city’s story, and you’ll see them as you walk around. Bullet holes in the walls, crumbling buildings, and bold graffiti murals reflect both the pain of the past and the strength it took to rebuild. Mostar carries its history openly — a quiet but powerful reminder of what the city has overcome.
And then there’s the setting. Mostar sits beautifully among pale limestone hills and along the vibrant, blue-green Neretva River. From various spots in the city, you’ll get stunning views of the water, the bridge, and the surrounding mountains. Combine that with a warm Mediterranean climate, and it’s easy to understand why locals and visitors alike are enjoying drinks on sunny terraces even in early spring.
10 Best Things to Do in Mostar
#1 Stari Most, the Iconic Bridge of Mostar
Everyone visits Mostar for one main reason: the Stari Most. And with good reason. This soaring stone arch over the turquoise Neretva River is the city’s most iconic landmark. First built in the 16th century on the orders of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, it was a true masterpiece of engineering for its time. The Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin designed it using innovative techniques to span the river without the help of supporting pillars, a bold idea in those days. Legend has it he was so nervous about the bridge holding up that he couldn’t bear to watch when the wooden scaffolding was finally removed. Luckily, the bridge stood firm, and remained standing for centuries.
Did you know? The bridge you see today is actually a modern reconstruction. Like much of Mostar’s Old Town, it was carefully rebuilt after the war to match the original as closely as possible.
For hundreds of years, the bridge was the vital link between both sides of the city. Until 1993, when war tore through Mostar. Under heavy shelling, the beloved bridge collapsed into the river, taking with it a powerful symbol of unity and identity. But in 2004, the Stari Most rose again. Using local limestone from the same quarry and traditional Ottoman building methods, it was rebuilt stone by stone. Though technically a replica, it has fully reclaimed its place at the heart of the city, and is now a proud UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In summer, fearless local divers plunge from its 20-meter height into the icy waters below—a centuries-old tradition that’s not for the faint-hearted. The view from the bridge is stunning, offering sweeping vistas over the Old Town’s rooftops and riverbanks. But to truly appreciate its graceful curve, take the path down to the water’s edge. From there, you’ll see the arch in all its glory, and discover one of the most magical views Mostar has to offer.
#2 The Old Town
Mostar’s Old Town is a delightful blend of cobbled streets, shimmering copperware, the scent of spices in the air, and vibrant little souvenir shops. As you wander through its narrow lanes, you’ll pass lively market stalls, centuries-old mosques, and charming wooden houses with overhanging balconies that seem to lean over the streets to greet you. The entire area exudes Ottoman-era charm, even though much of it is younger than it looks.
What many visitors don’t realize is that most of the Old Town was carefully reconstructed after the war. In the 1990s, this part of the city—like the iconic bridge—was nearly reduced to rubble. But in the years that followed, a remarkable restoration brought it back, piece by piece. From the cobblestones and carved wooden window frames to the gently trickling fountains and graceful stone facades, everything has been rebuilt with incredible attention to detail, restoring the timeless atmosphere you feel today.
This part of the city is entirely pedestrian-friendly, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Start at the Stari Most, then follow the winding path of Kujundžiluk Bazaar. Once home to the city’s goldsmiths, it’s now lined with stalls selling handmade crafts, intricate jewelry, painted ceramics, and all kinds of locally made treasures. Don’t forget to look uphe carved wooden eaves and tiled rooftops are often just as eye-catching as the market goods below.
Make sure to stray from the main route now and then. While most visitors linger around the bridge, it’s in the quiet backstreets that you’ll find the soul of Mostar. Here, you might stumble upon peaceful courtyards, tucked-away tea gardens, scenic terraces, and sometimes even an old mosque with its doors left open, inviting you to step inside and soak up the serenity.
#3 The Kriva Ćuprija, the Broken Bridge
If you’re hoping to step away from the bustle of the Stari Most, you won’t need to go far. Just a five-minute stroll leads you to Kriva Ćuprija, a charming little stone bridge that spans the Radobolja River. It’s far less known, wonderfully peaceful, and just as photogenic as its more famous sibling.
Built in 1558, the Kriva Ćuprija is often thought of as a miniature prototype of the Stari Most. Legend has it that Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin first tested his daring arch design here before scaling it up for the grand bridge across the Neretva. The two structures share the same elegant Ottoman lines and pale limestone—only this one is smaller, lower, and, as the name hints, just slightly crooked.
The setting is as serene as it gets. Leafy terraces line the riverside, offering quiet spots to sit back with a coffee or a glass of local wine. No tour groups, no daring divers—just the gentle sound of the river and the view of a graceful arch that has stood for centuries. Like much of Mostar, the Kriva Ćuprija was damaged during the war, but has been lovingly restored to its original charm.
Wander just a little farther and you’ll come across the Most Musala, a modern bridge that crosses the wide Neretva. It, too, was heavily damaged during the war but has since been rebuilt and now blends seamlessly into the rhythm of daily life. It may not draw the crowds, but it offers a different, more everyday perspective of Mostar—one that’s just as important to understanding the city as its historic icons.
#4 The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
For one of the most stunning views in Mostar, make your way to the minaret of the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque. The climb is narrow and steep, with a tight spiral staircase winding all the way to the top, but the reward is well worth the effort. From above, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panorama: the iconic Stari Most in full view, the Neretva River gleaming like a turquoise ribbon, and the Old Town laid out like a mosaic of stone rooftops.
Built in the early 17th century, the mosque is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of Ottoman religious architecture in Bosnia. Step inside to admire the beautifully painted walls, a finely crafted mihrab (the prayer niche that faces Mecca), and elegant geometric details that reflect the skill and artistry of the era. The courtyard outside is a peaceful green haven, with a historic fountain and a small garden tucked among the trees.
What sets this mosque apart is not just its architecture, but its incredible location. Perched on the eastern bank of the Neretva, just a stone’s throw from the bridge, it offers a front-row view of Mostar’s layered history.
Non-Muslim visitors are welcome, though modest clothing and respectful behavior are expected within the prayer area. And if you’re thinking of climbing the minaret, be prepared. The staircase is extremely narrow and winding, so those with claustrophobia may prefer to admire the view from the ground.
#5 Sniper Tower
The Sniper Tower might not appear on any official list of sights, but it still draws plenty of curious visitors. Once a modern bank built in the 1970s, the building was transformed into a sniper nest during the Bosnian War. From its concrete heights, shooters targeted anything that moved on the western side of Mostar.
After the war, the tower was left to decay—no restoration, no new function. What stands today is a haunting, skeletal structure: a charred multi-story ruin, its bare walls now coated in layers of graffiti and street art. Local and international artists have claimed the space, turning it into a gritty open-air gallery of political messages, protest art, and bold splashes of color symbolizing resilience and hope.
Despite being officially off-limits, many travelers still venture inside through a gap in the wall along the street. But be warned: entering comes with serious risks. The structure is unstable: some staircases are missing, floors are crumbling, and there’s no supervision or safety in place.
We chose to admire the tower from a distance. It sits along Bulevar Revolucije, once the dividing line between the city’s eastern and western sides—a former frontline that tells a very different story from the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town. The Sniper Tower is one of the most visible scars left by the conflict, a jarring contrast to the restored heart of Mostar, and a raw, unfiltered reminder of its recent history.
#6 Street art in Mostar
If you search for Mostar online and venture beyond the iconic bridge, you’ll soon discover something else that stands out: its striking street art. Some pieces are bold political statements, others more abstract and expressive, but all of them tell a story about the city and its layered past.
The highest concentration of murals can be found around the Sniper Tower and along the Bulevar Revolucije, the former frontline that once split the city in two. Where gunfire once echoed, the walls now burst with portraits, peace doves, and slogans calling for change. Many of these works were painted during street art festivals or created by international artist collectives invited to leave their mark on the city.
What stood out most to us was the variety of themes. A large part of the artwork explores the war, division, religion, identity, and the long road to reconciliation. But not all of it is heavy. You’ll also spot playful, lighthearted touches—a cartoon astronaut floating across a wall, a vibrant mosaic honoring local icons, or tongue-in-cheek references to pop culture that add color and humor to the streetscape.
#7 A Free Walking Tour
One of the best ways to truly experience Mostar is through the perspective of someone who calls it home. Someone who lived through the war, watched the city rise from the rubble, and can share the stories that don’t appear in guidebooks. That’s exactly what makes a free walking tour such a meaningful and memorable experience.
Every day, several tours set off from the heart of the Old Town, usually near the iconic Stari Most. You’ll join a small group and follow a local guide through the city—past famous sights like the bridge and the bazaar, but also to lesser-known corners that many visitors miss. You’ll walk along what was once the front line, spot war-torn buildings and street art, and hear personal reflections that bring Mostar’s complex past to life.
Tours typically last between 90 minutes and two hours and are run on a donation basis. At the end, you simply pay what you feel the experience was worth. The guides are often young, engaged locals with excellent English, eager to share not just facts and figures but real stories. You’ll learn about daily life, religion, ethnic divisions, and what it’s like to grow up in a city still healing from conflict.
It’s a smart idea to take a walking tour at the beginning of your visit. It gives you valuable context and helps you choose what you’d like to dive deeper into later on.
You usually don’t need to book in advance, but it’s worth checking websites like Free Tour Mostar or Guruwalk for up-to-date information. In the summer heat, tours often start earlier in the day to avoid the midday sun.
#8 Historical Houses in Mostar
Mostar is home to several beautifully preserved historic homes that offer a fascinating look into everyday life during the Ottoman era. The most notable among them are the Muslibegović House, the Bišćević House, and the Kajtaz House. Each one now partly serves as a museum, giving visitors a sense of how affluent families once lived, dined, slept, and entertained their guests.
The Muslibegović House, located on the western side of the city, is not only a museum but also functions as a charming boutique hotel. Even if you’re not staying the night, you’re welcome to step inside and explore. The interior features elegant carved woodwork, prayer niches, richly patterned carpets, and furnishings from the 19th century. Outside, a peaceful courtyard awaits, with a central fountain surrounded by high walls, traditional wooden balconies, and shuttered windows.
Tip: Looking for a unique place to stay? This house-museum also offers rooms—perfect for an overnight experience that blends comfort with heritage.
The Bišćević House, perched on the eastern bank of the Neretva River, offers a lovely view of the water. Its most eye-catching feature is a large wooden bay window that juts out dramatically over the river—a striking example of Ottoman design. Inside, the home is filled with period pieces that show what daily life once looked like: low cushioned seating, handwoven rugs, delicate ceramics, and original doors complete with heavy copper knockers.
The Kajtaz House is the oldest of the three and once belonged to a respected Ottoman judge. The harem section of the home gives a deeper look into the traditional roles within the household, how women lived, and how Islamic customs influenced the way the home was built and decorated. The explanations shared during your visit add meaningful context to the historic setting.
These houses may be small, but they’re rich in detail and atmosphere. They’re a perfect complement to Mostar’s mosques and iconic bridge, bringing the city’s layered history to life through intimate glimpses of domestic tradition.
#9 Museums in Mostar
Mostar might not have grand museums with endless corridors, but what it lacks in size, it makes up for in impact. The city is home to a few small museums that offer powerful insights into its complex past. The most notable is the Museum of War and Genocide Victims, located on the western side of town. This deeply emotional space offers a raw and honest glimpse into the horrors of the 1990s conflict that tore the region apart.
Inside, you’ll walk through a series of rooms filled with haunting photographs, personal belongings, video footage, and original documents. Among the displays are handwritten letters from the missing, clothing worn by victims, ID cards, and everyday items recovered from mass graves. The focus on individual stories makes it all the more moving—putting faces, names, and emotions to events that are often spoken about in broad terms. It’s not a place for young children or sensitive visitors, but for anyone wanting to understand the soul of Mostar, this museum is unmissable.
Another place worth visiting is the Museum of the Old Bridge, located in the tower on the eastern side of the Stari Most. This museum takes you through the history of the iconic bridge—from its original Ottoman construction to its tragic destruction in 1993, and finally to the meticulous reconstruction that brought it back to life. At the top of the tower, you’re rewarded with a unique view over the bridge and river, offering a perspective that’s both scenic and symbolic.
For a broader look at the region, the Herzegovina Museum is another worthwhile stop. Here, you’ll find archaeological treasures, traditional art, and historical documents that trace the cultural journey of Mostar and its surroundings. It’s a quiet but rich space that rounds out your understanding of the area’s layered history.
#10 Food and Drink in Mostar
You don’t need to search long or hard to eat well in Mostar. The city is full of laid-back, no-fuss restaurants where hearty, homemade meals are served up with generous portions and even more generous prices. Bosnian food is honest and filling, a flavorful mix of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences that reflects the region’s rich history.
One dish you simply have to try is ćevapi. These small, juicy sausages made from spiced beef or lamb are tucked into fluffy flatbread, topped with raw onions and a generous spoonful of kajmak—a creamy, slightly salty dairy spread that’s somewhere between butter and clotted cream. Another beloved classic is burek: a hot, flaky pastry filled with minced meat, spinach, or cheese. It’s the kind of snack that’s perfect any time of day.
If you’re in the mood for something more comforting, go for dolma—vegetables stuffed with seasoned rice and simmered in tomato sauce—or begova čorba, a thick, rich stew made with chicken and okra, often served as a starter but filling enough to be a meal on its own. Vegetarians might have fewer choices, but there’s usually no shortage of flavorful options like bean stews, grilled vegetables, or homemade cheese croquettes.
When it comes to dessert, baklava is a crowd-pleaser. But in Bosnia, don’t expect the pistachio-laced, syrup-soaked version you might know. Here, baklava is typically made with walnuts, giving it a more rustic texture and a subtler sweetness. It pairs beautifully with a strong cup of Bosnian coffee.
And that coffee isn’t just a drink; it’s a ritual. Served in a small cup with a copper pot called a džezva, it often comes with a sugar cube and a piece of Turkish delight on the side. You pour it yourself, sip it slowly, and leave the grounds at the bottom.
Around Kriva Ćuprija and the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find no shortage of inviting terraces, perfect for taking a break and soaking up the atmosphere. Many sit right along the river, with wooden balconies that offer lovely views of the water drifting by. The vibe is easygoing, the food is simple and down-to-earth, but always full of flavor.
To accompany your meal, try a cold Mostarsko beer or sip on a glass of Blatina or Žilavka, the region’s signature red and white wines. And don’t be surprised if you’re offered a glass of rakija after your meal—a strong fruit brandy, usually homemade and not exactly mild. One glass is more than enough for most!
Top Things to Do near Mostar
Don’t limit your trip to just Mostar. It’s well worth staying longer and exploring more of what Bosnia and Herzegovina has to offer. While many visitors only see the city as a quick day trip from Split or Dubrovnik in Croatia, the region truly shines when you slow down and dig a little deeper.
Instead of rushing in and out, consider renting a car in Croatia (just double-check that you’re allowed to take it across the border) and setting off on a road trip through southern Bosnia. The drive alone is a scenic adventure, and within just a few days, you can take in some of the country’s most beautiful and memorable spots.
From breathtaking natural landscapes to charming historic villages, there’s so much waiting just beyond Mostar’s city limits. In the next section, we’ll share our favorite places to explore from Mostar—perfect for building your own unforgettable itinerary.
#11 The Dervish House in Blagaj
Just a 15-minute drive from Mostar, you’ll find Blagaj—a peaceful village tucked beneath a towering limestone cliff. At the foot of this cliff, the icy, crystal-clear waters of the Buna River gush from a deep cave, fast-flowing and powerful. Right at this dramatic spot stands the Dervish House: a striking white wooden monastery that appears to be suspended between rock and river.
Built in the 15th century, the Dervish House served as a spiritual retreat for Sufi monks. Its location wasn’t chosen by chance. The surrounding landscape of rushing water, solid stone, and quiet stillness made it an ideal place for meditation and reflection. These days, if the river is calm, you can even take a short boat ride to get closer to the mouth of the cave.
Chances are you’ve seen the iconic image: the monastery tucked against the cliffside, perfectly mirrored in the water below. And honestly, that view is the highlight of the visit. The building itself is small and simply decorated, with just a handful of rooms featuring woven rugs, low wooden seating, and traditional prayer spaces. Most people find themselves back outside after about 15 minutes.
What really struck us, though, is how busy and commercial the area has become. The banks of the river are lined with restaurants, cafés, and souvenir shops. The serene, spiritual atmosphere the monastery was once known for is somewhat drowned out by clinking cutlery and groups of day-trippers.
If you go, don’t head straight to the main entrance. Instead, cross the river and follow the path that runs along the opposite side. From there, you’ll have the best view of the house and the cave. This is the exact perspective featured in all those famous travel photos.
Blagaj is a great spot for a quick escape from the city and a glimpse of nature’s drama. Just don’t go expecting a quiet monastery experience. It’s more about the scenery than the silence.
#12 Picturesque Pocitelj
Počitelj is one of those rare places that makes you feel as though you’ve stepped straight into another era. Just a 30-minute drive from Mostar, this beautifully preserved historic town clings to the hillside above the Neretva River. With its winding cobblestone alleys, grey stone houses topped with slate roofs, a medieval fortress, and a slender white minaret piercing the sky, the town looks like a living postcard from centuries past.
While Počitelj’s roots stretch back to the 14th century, most of the architecture you see today dates from the Ottoman era. Under Ottoman rule, the town flourished as a vibrant cultural and spiritual hub. Though it was badly damaged during the war in the 1990s, it has been lovingly restored, preserving the character and atmosphere that make it so special.
High above the town sits a centuries-old fortress, accessible via a steep but rewarding climb. From the top, you’re treated to sweeping views over the river, rolling hills, and the rooftops of the town below. At the base of the hill, you’ll come across the elegant Hajji Alija Mosque, a small traditional bathhouse, and the remains of an old madrasa (Islamic school). As you wander through the village, you’ll find small market stalls where local women sell homemade treats like dried figs, tangy pomegranate syrup, and colorful handwoven fabrics. In the main square, a few simple souvenir shops add to the village’s relaxed charm.
Počitelj remains refreshingly under the radar, especially outside the busy summer months. It’s an easy and rewarding detour when visiting nearby highlights like Blagaj or the Kravica Waterfalls, as they’re all located within the same scenic region. The town may be small, but it’s full of atmosphere and offers more than enough to keep you enchanted for a leisurely few hours.
#13 The Kravica Waterfalls
Looking to escape the heat? The Kravica Waterfalls are an ideal day trip from Mostar. Just a 45-minute drive from the city, these wide, cascading falls are set in a lush, green valley along the Trebižat River.
The water plunges from a height of around 20 meters into a large, circular pool that’s perfect for a refreshing swim. In summer, the area draws plenty of visitors—both tourists and locals—so if you’re after a more peaceful visit, your best bet is to arrive early in the day.
Around the falls, you’ll find walking trails, wooden boardwalks, benches, and shaded spots for picnics. You can dip your toes in, take a swim, hop in a kayak, or just lounge by the water with a cold drink. Swimming is definitely allowed, though be warned. The water is brisk, even on the hottest days. Sebastiaan was the only one of us who dared to go in, and he didn’t get much further than waist-deep.
A few laid-back restaurants dot the riverbank, offering grilled meats, fries, and salads. It’s not a gourmet stop, but the scenery more than makes up for it. There’s a large parking area at the entrance, and from there it’s a short walk down into the valley.
The Kravica Waterfalls may not be a well-kept secret anymore, but they still offer a stunning, natural escape. With crystal-clear water, a vivid green backdrop, and the soothing sound of rushing water, it’s a perfect change of pace from the bustle of Mostar.
#14 Pilgrimage site Medjugorje
Međugorje, just about 30 kilometers from Mostar, has become famous worldwide as a pilgrimage destination—even though it hasn’t received official recognition from the Vatican. The story began in 1981, when six local children reported seeing apparitions of the Virgin Mary. Since then, this small village has blossomed into one of Europe’s most visited pilgrimage sites, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
At the center of the action is St. James Church, a hub for pilgrims at all times. The church hosts multiple daily masses in a variety of languages, and the square outside is packed with rows of chairs for outdoor services, creating a lively and communal atmosphere.
Just a short walk outside the village center is Apparition Hill, believed to be the very place where the first vision took place. You can hike up via a stone path that’s fairly steep and occasionally slippery. Along the way, you’ll encounter statues, prayer stones, and groups of worshippers quietly praying or singing, adding a deeply spiritual feeling to the climb.
The vibe in Međugorje is something special—even if you’re not particularly religious. We were amazed by the sheer number of people gathering for the masses. The entire village pulses with a sense of reflection, prayer, and devotion. At the same time, Međugorje is very commercialized, filled with countless souvenir shops, hotels, and restaurants tailored entirely to pilgrims. Nowhere else have we seen so many statues of the Virgin Mary and rosaries for sale as in these bustling shops.
