mostar trip plan

The Best Mostar Itinerary: 2 Days in Mostar (2024)

If you’re planning a 2 day Mostar itinerary, you’re in the right place! This is our in-depth travel guide on how to spend 2 days in Mostar exploring the old medieval city, admiring the beautiful turquoise river and learning about Mostar’s dark history.

We’ll show you the best things to do in Mostar , how to get around, where to stay and our favourite restaurants during our 2 days in Mostar.

Mostar is a charming little city in the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina nestled within the Balkans . It’s becoming more popular each year due to Mostar’s iconic old bridge (Stari Most) and the lovely cobbled old town.

Although Mostar is the most famous place to visit in the country, it’s only the 5th largest city and Sarajevo is the capital. It’s also the perfect day trip from Dubrovnik or Split!

We spent 2 days in Mostar, creating the best Mostar itinerary to share with you and we would love to visit again in the future. There’s honestly too much to learn about the city , but it’s best to start with the Bosnian War which was only 30 years ago! We’ll include some history throughout this 2 day Mostar itinerary!

Alongside exploring the city, Mostar is the perfect base to discover nearby cities and waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina. So this Mostar itinerary is great if you have one or two days in Mostar.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Planning a Mostar Itinerary

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

• Currency  – Bosnian Mark & sometimes Euro (compare the currency  here )
• Cuisine  –  Bosnian & Balkan Cusine
• Sim Cards  – Buy an E-Sim online for $4.50 (1GB) for 7 days – here’s the link !
• Apps  – Google Maps & Booking.com
• Power Voltage in Bosnia & Herzegovina  – Plugs C & F (230 V)

Also check out our 7 Day Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina Itinerary !

Money & ATMs in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

The main currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Marka , also known as BAM or KM.

Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Marka is almost double the euro, which makes it easy to work out how much things cost. Euro’s are also accepted at most places throughout the country. We actually didn’t have to use the local currency at all during our 2 days in Mostar.

We used cent coins for toilets, notes in shops and our Starling card for some restaurants. We do recommend getting out the local currency though but make sure you spend it as you might not be able to exchange it anywhere else.

There are many ATMs to use all over the city, however, some of them may charge for foreign cards. As we never needed to use one, we’re not sure which one is the best. However, Ziraat Bank is a good place to start!

Where to stay in Mostar

The best area to stay in Mostar is in the Old Town . There are so many places to stay within walking distance of the famous bridge. We absolutely loved the place we stayed and would recommend it to anyone!

Mostar Hotel, Hostels & Guesthouses

Hostel Nina  € – We stayed here for 2 days in Mostar and loved it! They have a mix of rooms from dorms to private and family rooms. It’s in the perfect location and there’s a social area if you want to meet other travellers! There’s also parking and breakfast for a fee . –  Find on Booking.com here !

Villa Amaleo €€ – The rooms here have balconies with riverside views and it’s also within walking distance to the Old Town –  Find on Booking.com here !

Luxury Studio Yasmine €-€€ – Just north of the Old Town you’ll find Yasmine Studios with private rooms so you can feel at home –  Find on Booking.com here !

How to get around Mostar

The best way to get around Mostar is by walking ! The city is very small and you can find affordable accommodation very close to the Old Town. There are also taxis and buses if you need them!

In this 2 day Mostar itinerary, we do include a day trip that involves renting a car or joining a tour . So if you’re a backpacker who isn’t renting a car, you don’t have to worry!

As we travelled from Kotor , we were already renting a car from Montenegro, so we’ll mention a few ways to travel by car and alternative options! ( Browse car rental prices on Discover Cars here )

Day 1 – Explore Mostar Old Town & Surrounding Area

Now we’ll move on to showing you this 2 day Mostar itinerary with the best things to do in Mostar Old Town and beyond! This Mostar itinerary has been tried and tested by us and we learnt so much about the small city.

These days can be switched around if the weather is different or if you’re driving to Mostar from Kotor or Dubrovnik.

Arrive & Walk around the Old Town

Once you arrive in Mostar, head to your accommodation and drop your bags off or check-in. As the city is small, it’s likely your accommodation is within walking distance of the Old Town and this is one of the best places to visit in Mostar!

The Old Town in Mostar is such a mesmerizing part of the city to explore – with classic cobble-stoned streets, tourist shops selling almost anything and ice cream parlours around every corner. When the locals are out, you can see them enjoying coffee, beer or baklava.

Mostar has preserved most of its original charm from when it first developed during the 15th-16th century. It’s been beautifully added to over the years and still remains charming even after most of the city was destroyed during the war (we’ll talk about this later).

When walking around the cobbled streets we definitely felt a Turkish presence and discovered that there are a lot of traditional Turkish houses in the city. It’s a huge part of Mostar’s culture and they’ve now been turned into museums or shops.

There’s still a lot of Ottoman Architecture which is very common to see throughout the Balkans and it’s why the city has a slight Istanbul feel (to us anyway!).

There’s also an Ottoman Bazaar which can’t be missed when wandering around. The bazaar sells anything from clothes to souvenirs and handmade products. There are also beautiful riverside cafes and delightful coffee shops serving local delicacies.

The Old Town is split into two parts with the Neretva River in between, so now we’ll show you the most popular monument to see in Mostar.

Admire the Old Bridge in Mostar (Stari Most)

In the heart of the Old Town is the famous stone arch bridge of Mostar. Mostar was actually named after the bridge keepers that guarded the bridge during the Ottoman era.

It’s honestly hard to miss the iconic bridge as it’s the monument that divides the Old Town and you’ll find yourself walking over it many times!

It’s also known as the Stari Most Bridge and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Old Bridge was originally built during the 15th century but was destroyed during the Bosnian War and rebuilt in 2001 keeping its Ottoman architecture.

Our favourite places to view the bridge are from Lučki most and from the viewpoint just up the street – Mostar Bridge Viewpoint !

Discover the Culture and History of Mostar

During our 2 day Mostar itinerary, we learnt a lot and we wanted to learn. Travelling is an amazing education platform with museums within every city, including Mostar. We tried our best to soak up the dark history of Mostar, so we want to share some with you.

The Bosnian War occurred due to the break up of Yugoslavia, and when Bosnia and Herzegovina declared independence. This led to tensions between its ethnic groups Bosniaks (Muslims), Croats (Catholics) and Serbs (Orthodox).

The Bosniaks and Croats wanted the country to be multi-ethnic whilst the Bosnian Serbs wanted to create their own separate state. The War involved mass killings of Muslims and more than 90% of the city being destroyed. There are some main areas throughout the city where the eerie history is hard to forget and there are still bullet holes and wrecked buildings in Mostar.

The war started in April 1992 and ended in December 1995 and no one really ‘won’ the war, they all just agreed to live divided in the same country. The Old Bridge actually divided the Muslims and Christians apart.

If you want to learn more about the history of Mostar, spend some time in the Museum Of War And Genocide Victims during your 2 days in Mostar.

See the view from Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

Throughout the day you’ll hear the many call to prayers from the various mosques around the city. Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Mostar and it dates back to the 17th century.

It’s also possible to climb to the top of the minaret through a small narrow staircase which is the first time we’ve come across this. It does cost 14 KM to enter and this may apply to praying also.

Find the ‘Sniper Tower’

Another important monument to find in Mostar is the gloomy Sniper Tower which is a tall abandoned bank in the newer area of Mostar. Sadly this building was used by Croatian Snipers during the war and you can see bullet holes surrounding the area.

It feels eerie to walk around the area and people even go inside to explore, although you’re not technically allowed.

Spot the Gimnazija Mostar (School)

A very unique building to come across is the Mostar Secondary School which is Austro-Hungarian architecture. It’s the only school in Mostar to mix religions as most of the city and country are very divided.

Visit the Dervish House in Blagaj

After exploring the beautiful Old Town of Mostar, spend the afternoon visiting Blagaj which is a short drive out of the city. There are buses that run from Mostar to Blagaj, but we used our rental car to get there and paid €2 for parking.

The Dervish House is a lovely monastery on the side of a water cave. The best views are from across the other side of the river and there are multiple bridges across the river. The Dervish House

There’s a small entry fee (€5) to go inside the monastery with a little viewing platform next to the water. When we visited, the water was so high due to all the rain, but in the summer months, a little boat will take you straight into the cave to look around!

The area is full of riverside restaurants and little markets but the views of the river and the Dervish House steal the show.

There’s also a fortress on the hill in Blagaj (Kula hercega Stjepana Vukcica Kosace) if you fancy some hiking! You can also drive up there.

Have dinner in the Old Town

End the first day of your 2 day Mostar itinerary by having dinner back in the Old Town. We highly recommend Food House Mostar ( location ) for some traditional food! You’ll notice how peaceful the Old Town is in the evening without the day trip tourists.

Visiting more of Europe?  Here are our  travel tips for backpacking Europe !

Day 2 – Take a Day Trip to Medieval Towns & Waterfalls

We’ve put together the perfect itinerary from Mostar to explore the beautiful areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you do have 2 days in Mostar, this is an amazing way to spend your second day. Hostel Nina and various other guesthouses in the city offer tours to most of these places, so you won’t miss out if you don’t have your own car.

Explore Počitelj

The first destination on your second day is a visit to Počitelj – a wonderful medieval town only 30 minutes away from Mostar. There’s free parking if you are renting a car which was empty when we visited, but it can get busy!

Počitelj is an open-air museum right on the Nevreta River and it’s a great opportunity to get a glimpse into the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina. You’ll notice the small town is spread out over a hill and a short but slightly steep walk up the cobblestone steps will take you straight to the top of the fortress. You’ll be blown away by the views!

A few things to see in Počitelj are:

• The Gavrankapetanovic House – the largest residential house
• Hadzi-Alija Mosque – the interior is beautiful!
• Gavrankapetan’s Tower – climb inside the tower and peep through the small windows!

Sadly the town was abandoned during the Bosnian War and only a few families returned, but the government are finding ways to bring more life back to this charming town.

There are a few markets and many restaurants in Počitelj if you find yourself here close to wanting lunch!

Admire Kravica Waterfall

The next stop on this 2 day Mostar itinerary is Kravica Waterfall ! A short drive away from Počitelj is a natural wonder in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It will cost 20 KM to enter (€10) which is kind of pricey, but it’s worth visiting if you’re in the area.

The falls are incredible and with beautiful turquoise water! There are lots of things to do in Kravica Waterfall like watersports and chilling at the beach (yes there’s a beach)!

We visited after a long period of rain and the falls were crazy! It also meant that the beach area and restaurant were flooded, so we couldn’t fully experience Kravica Falls, but we still recommend it!

If it’s a sunny day, you can spend most of the afternoon here swimming in the water before heading back to Mostar for the evening.

See the views from Hum Mountain

Another one of the best things to do in Mostar is visit Hum Mountain. We only came across this viewpoint as we were curious about the large cross staring at us from the Old Town.

After a bit of research, we learned that this hill was also used as a killing point during the Bosnian War and it’s not great that a cross was placed where such a tragedy happened. However, it was built here in 2002 on the highest point to celebrate 2,000 years of Christianity.

We drove up a windy road to reach the top and admire the views, but it’s also a 1 hour hike from Mostar. It’s known as a local romantic spot, especially in the evening!

Wander around the Old Town at night

After an amazing 2 days in Mostar, walk around the Old Town one last time to soak up the beauty and culture of the quiet streets. We went back to our favourite spot in Mostar to view the iconic bridge and at night it lights up!

Honestly, Mostar feels so different in the evening than it does at night, so it’s worth having a look before you leave!

We can’t wait to explore more of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the future and would definitely pass by Mostar if it’s on our route. This 2 day Mostar itinerary was so lovely to plan!

Alternative ideas for a Mostar itinerary

Although we covered the main highlights of Mostar, there are a few things to do in the city that we haven’t mentioned.

• Mostar Free Walking Tour

Best Restaurants in Mostar

Mostar isn’t short of delicious restaurants to try and we fell in love with a few traditional dishes such as İmam bayıldı from the Ottoman cuisine. There’s great food and Turkish-style restaurants throughout most of the cobbled Old Town and even more options throughout the city. Here are a few places we recommend:

• Food House Mostar € – Our favourite spot for traditional food! ( location )
• Caffe Lasta € – A great place for ice cream and Turkish baklava! ( location )
• Tecó € – Serving the tastiest vegan food, just outside of Old Town! ( location )

Cafe  de Alma is the most popular place to visit for traditional Bosnian coffee, but sadly we aren’t coffee drinkers!

Although restaurants in Mostar are pretty affordable, there’s still the option of buying food at grocery stores and cooking in your hostel. We stayed in Hostel Nina and whipped up lunch here – they also offer breakfast!

How to get to Mostar

Bus – If you’re travelling around the Balkans without a car, the bus is the best option for you! It takes 2.5 hours from Sarajevo and 6 hours from Kotor or Budva. There are two bus stations in Mostar just outside of the Old Town. Check prices and times on 12.Go here !

Car – A car was pretty handy to have in Mostar as we explored outside of the city. We hired a rental car in Podgorica and made sure we stayed somewhere that had free parking in Mostar. Find prices for a car rental here !

Flying – Mostar is home to Mostar (OMO) Airport, however, they don’t have the best prices for flights. It may be best to fly into Sarajevo or Dubrovnik and then catch a bus or rent a car to begin your 2 day Mostar itinerary.

How many days should I spend in Mostar?

We recommend spending at least 2 days in Mostar and using it as a base to explore more of the beautiful country. The Old Town can be explored in less than a day but it’s definitely worth seeing more of Bosnia and Herzegovina whilst you’re there.

Most people visit Mostar as a day trip, which is completely possible to do, we’re just recommending spending more time and experiencing the city a little more. There’s so much history to understand, it blew our minds at first.

Best time to visit Mostar

The best time to visit Mostar is between May to June and September to October to get a better chance of lovely weather and fewer crowds. Mostar generally doesn’t get a lot of tourists but as the small Old Town is the main attraction, it can get very crowded.

It’s still possible to visit Mostar all year round and in the wintertime, you might see snow – which is a whole other type of experience! We visited in May and it rained for the first day of our Mostar itinerary, but it’s mostly sunny during this time of year.

What to do in Mostar at night

Mostar is a popular place to visit, but , most of the tourists only spend the day in the city. This means that the evenings are peaceful and the best time to grab food at a local restaurant .

We’ve already mentioned that we loved dining at Food House Mostar so we ate there twice!

When the evening turns to night, Mostar has some nightlife to enjoy. Here’s a few things to do at night in Mostar: Enjoy a beer at Shankly’s Pub just outside the Old Town, it’s Mostar’s favourite pub and a great place to spend the night! There’s also the Golden Cube nightclub if you want to dance the night away!

What to pack for 2 days in Mostar

• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – An amazing lightweight tripod to capture photos if there’s no one around you. We use a Joby GorillaPod  for our Sony a6000 & there’s also a  Joby Phone Tripod  which is great for videos!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – Tap water is drinkable and free in Mostar.
• Anker Power Bank  – Keep your phone charged on the road.
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – A lightweight raincoat is needed for travelling in Europe!

Is Mostar worth visiting?

Yes – Mostar is worth adding to your European bucket list ! It’s also the perfect introduction to Bosnia and Herzegovina if it’s your first time visiting the country.

Mostar has one of prettiest old towns full of cobbled streets, rich history and lots of markets. It’s worth visiting Mostar to see the impressive bridge and turquoise river. Mostar is a perfect day trip from Dubrovnik or other places in Croatia and the scenery around the area is breathtaking!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world, including Montenegro –  Find out more here!

Visiting more places in  the Balkans  or  Europe ?

• The Best 7 Day Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina Itinerary
• Kotor Itinerary: Best Things To Do In Kotor
• 3 Day Athens Itinerary: The Best Things To Do
• Ultimate 1 Week Romania Itinerary: 2024 (Using Public Transport)
• 5 Day Bulgaria Itinerary: Best Places to Visit
• Check out more from  Montenegro  and  Bosnia & Herzegovina !

That’s the end of our The Best Mostar Itinerary: 2 Days in Mostar (2024) ! Enjoy your 2 days in Mostar and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Wander-Lush

How to Spend One Day in Mostar: 24 Hours in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Most Captivating City

Only have one day in Mostar? Follow my curated Mostar itinerary to see the best of the city in 24 hours.

Mostar is the fifth-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the most popular destinations in the country, if not the entire Balkans region . Most people know Mostar because of Stari most, the UNESCO-Listed Old Bridge that gives the city its name.

Stari most is an icon of BiH and a powerful symbol of peace and resilience. Seeing it up close in person is difficult to describe – it’s an emotional, heart-wrenching, full-body experience. Beyond the bridge, Mostar is a sparkling city with a beautiful river, an old bazaar, Ottoman houses, countless viewpoints, mosques, and restaurants that serve truly amazing local cuisine .

While many people only have time to visit Mostar on a day trip from Sarajevo or from Dubrovnik/Split in Croatia , it’s well worth spending a full day and night at least. I guarantee you that Mostar will turn on the charm and invite you to stay longer than planned – I ended up spending a whole week in Mostar during my travels through Bosnia, I just couldn’t bring myself to say goodbye.

My one day itinerary brings together all the best things to do in Mostar to help you make the most of a short visit. I’ve also included travel tips, restaurant recommendations, transport info, and day trip suggestions.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Mostar quick links

Buy your Mostar bus tickets: From Sarajevo (2.5 hrs; 13 USD), Dubrovnik (4 hrs; 15 USD) or Split (4.5 hrs; 18 USD) → Browse routes & pre-purchase tickets online through Bookaway .

Where to stay: Taso’s House (hostel); Hotel Kapetanovina (mid-range hotel); Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija (boutique hotel); Apartment Light De Luxe (apartment).

Hiring a car in Mostar: Use Discover Cars to find a rental . Prices start from 22 Euros/day with pickup in downtown Mostar.

Mostar day trip from Sarajevo: Full-day tour with stops in Konjic, Pocitelj and Blagaj and a full afternoon in Mostar. → Book it on Get Your Guide .

Mostar day trip from Dubrovnik: Full-day tour with stops in Pocitelj, Medjugorje and Mostar. → Book it on Get Your Guide .

Is one day in Mostar enough?

Honestly, Mostar deserves more than a day – but if it’s all the time you have, it’s better than nothing. It’s not that there are a particularly huge number of attractions in Mostar. I say that because it’s a relaxing, very beautiful city that captures your imagination and draws you in. It’s easy to get swept up in the history and nostalgia of the Old Bridge and the romance of the Bridge Jumpers.

There is a lot to see and do around Mostar, including the Dervish House at Blagaj, the Ottoman town of Pocitelj and Kravice Waterfall (I’ll share more recommendations later). It makes sense to use Mostar as a base for exploring southern Herzegovina region.

I had the luxury of time and spent a full week in Mostar. I was there during shoulder season in the first week of April, so I didn’t experience the full-on summer crowds. (Actually, spring is a wonderful time to visit Mostar.) If it had been more crowded, I might have been inclined to cut my visit short. But then again if the weather had been warmer, I might have done more outdoor day trips.

Where to stay in Mostar

Taso’s House : This popular hostel has two dormitories plus a private room, all with mountain views. Breakfast is included, and host Taso offers a great program of day tours for those looking to explore the area with new friends. → Check prices & availability on Booking.com .

Hotel Kapetanovina : The star of this comfortable mid-range hotel is the rooftop terrace that looks down over the Old Bazaar and Stari most. Rooms are nicely furnished and a buffet breakfast is available. → Check prices & availability on Booking.com .

Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija : Set in a historic UNESCO-Listed stone building just footsteps from the Old Bridge, this boutique hotel has bright rooms, outdoor spaces with bridge views, and a wonderful onsite restaurant. → Check prices & availability on Booking.com .

Apartment Light De Luxe : This modern self-contained apartment has a full kitchen and sleeps up to five adults. It’s located in the heart of the UNESCO area, with bridge views from the windows and balcony. → Check prices & availability on Booking.com .

Perfect Mostar 1 day itinerary

With 1 day in Mostar you can see the city highlights, view Stari most from multiple perspectives, and fit in a few terrific meals. Here is my suggested itinerary, starting and ending with the Old Bridge.

Start your one day in Mostar at the Old Bridge (Stari most)

Stari most is the star of Mostar, the city’s namesake, and its most prominent landmark. As soon as you set foot in Mostar you’ll feel an invisible force pulling you towards the stone arch.

Designed by Ottoman architect Mimar Hayruddin and commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent, Stari most was built in 1566 to replace a wooden bridge that spanned the same section of the Neretva river. Stretching out for 29 metres and soaring 21 metres above the summer water level, it was an incredible feat of engineering at the time it was built.

When violence enveloped Mostar during the Balkan Wars of the 1990s, not even Stari most was spared: On November 9th, 1993 the bridge was hit by an onslaught of shells and folded into the river. In 2004, it was reconstructed using original stones salvaged from the riverbed below.

The name Mostar comes from the bridge keepers ( mostari ) who guarded the walkway in medieval times from twin stone towers at either end. Today, the bridge has different stewards: the Mostar Diving Club, who wow crowds by jumping off the bridge’s highest point.

The daredevils only the plunge when conditions are just right – we were lucky enough to see one jumper early in the afternoon. You know a jump is about to happen when then men sporting swimmers (or clad in wetsuits in the cooler months) start collecting money from the crowds. Once they have enough KMs, they take the leap. Run down to the beach for the best views.

Stop for a Bosnian coffee inside the Old Bazaar

Mostar Old Bazaar or Bazar Kujundžiluk is a much smaller version of Sarajevo’s Old Bazaar but with similar wooden shops and cobbled streets. It stretches out from either end of the Old Bridge, with most shops on the eastern side of the river.

Early mornings in the Old Bazaar are very pleasant indeed. You can walk the rows and watch the stallholders setting up for the day without having to jostle with crowds. Most shops sell cheap souvenirs such as bronze trays, coffee sets and magnets.

This is a great place to grab a morning cuppa. In Bosnia, coffee is so much more than just a beverage – it’s part of the social fabric and a precious element of the country’s culinary heritage . It has Ottoman roots, but Bosnian coffee is prepared and drunk in a way that’s different from Turkish coffee.

Black coffee is served in a džezva , a special metal pot with a long handle, which is placed on an etched bronze tray along with a ceramic cup called a fildžan , sugar cubes, and a small glass of room-temperature water. First, you should pour the coffee into the cup then take a sugar cube and dip it into the coffee so that it softens along the edge. Nibble the sugar or rub it on your tongue, then take a sip of coffee. The sugar offsets the bitterness and mellows the flavour. This process is repeated for every sip, with a gulp of plain water in between to cleanse the palate.

Cafe de Alma on the western side of the river is one of few cafes in Mostar that roasts its own beans. They serve coffee the traditional way and will run you through the ritual if it’s your first time.

Head up to the Koskin Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque & Tepa Market

Located on the river’s edge adjacent to the Old Bazaar, the Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque is one of six remaining mosques in Mostar. Before the war, there were 13, but the majority were lost along with one of the city’s Orthodox churches.

The mosque dates back to 1617 and is very beautiful inside, with colourful wall paintings, Islamic calligraphy along the dome, and lavish carpets on the floor of the main prayer hall (including one carpet gifted to the congregation by Emperor Franz Joseph in 1910). Visitors are welcome to visit the mosque outside of prayer times. Photography is permitted.

As lovely as the prayer hall is, that’s not the main reason to visit Koski Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque. The highlight is climbing the minaret for a sweeping view of the city, including a picture-perfect vignette of the nearby Old Bridge and the rooftops of Bazar Kujundžiluk.

This is the only time in my life I’ve climbed a mosque minaret. The staircase is tight and steep, but it’s worth every cautious step for the views from the top.

When you descend the staircase, linger in the mosque’s yard for a while. You can find more outstanding views of the Old Bridge from the back of the garden. Most tourists seem to miss this spot but it’s one of my favourites. A small cafe operates here too.

While you’re in the area, visit the nearby Tepa Market, a covered bazaar that’s been buzzing since Ottoman times. In late summer and autumn you’ll find figs, pomegranates and local honey for sale.

The entrance to the mosque is a bit tricky to spot: duck through the archway amidst the row of shops. Entrance to the mosque and minaret costs 12 KM. Head coverings are available for women to take at the door, but it’s recommended to bring your own scarf. Remember to take off your shoes before going inside.

Visit one of Mosar’s museums

There are several noteworthy museums in Mostar that are worth the ticket price. With one day in Mostar, you will be limited to visiting just one or two. I recommend the Old Bridge Museum , which focuses exclusively on the history of Stari most, and the War Photo Exhibition inside Tara Tower, which displays moving images from the Balkan Wars by Kiwi photojournalist Wade Goddard.

If you have more time (or perhaps the weather isn’t great so you’re looking for things to do in Mostar in the rain), other indoor attractions include the Biscevic and Muslibegovic museums, two gorgeous Ottoman-era houses styled as ethnographic museums.

Having recently visited similar houses in Gjirokaster and Berat in Albania, I decided to skip them this time – but from what I have seen both are very interesting.

Lunch at National Restaurant Tima-Irma

After a big morning of sightseeing, it’s time to refuel. Calorie-rich, tasty Bosnian food promises to satiate any appetite. It’s definitely one of my favourite cuisines in the region.

There are dozens and dozens of restaurants up and down both sides of the river in Mostar. I had a particularly memorable meal at National Restaurant Tima-Irma , a budget-friendly aščinica near the Old Bridge. They do a mean rostilj mixed grill platter with veggies, feta and local sudzuk beef sausages. For something lighter, sogan dolma , onions stuffed with spiced meat and rice, is a Mostar specialty.

For something more up-market, we also ate a wonderful meal next door at Restaurant Šadrvan . The outdoor terrace with its big, shady trees is a particularly nice place to pause in the middle of the day. This is where I ate klepe for the first time and developed my Bosnian dumpling addiction!

Another option is Hindin Han , set inside a historic building near a tributary of the river.

Walk by the oldest stone bridge in Mostar, Kriva cuprija

Tucked behind Tima-Irma and Restaurant Sadrvan on the meandering Radobolja creek, Kriva cuprija is very easy to miss. A much smaller version of Stari most, this bridge predates the Old Bridge, having been built as a ‘dry run’ in 1558 by Ottoman architect Cejvan Kethoda to test out the engineering.

Its name means ‘Sloping Bridge’ or ‘Crooked Bridge’, so maybe it wasn’t all that successful – but all these years later, it’s still standing proud.

Cross Lučki most for the best Old Bridge views

I know what you’re thinking: another bridge! But Lucki most isn’t one to miss. Built in 1913, it’s a reminder of a very different period of Mostar’s history, when the city was under Austro-Hungarian control.

Lucki most is the first bridge south of Stari most – a part of the city we’ve not yet ventured to yet. While the views of the Old Bridge from the mosque minaret and the Old Bazaar were beautiful, my favourite outlook is actually from this direction, peering square-on at the bridge from the middle of Lucki most.

From the south, you get a great look at diving platform, the beach, the stone towers, and the mosque’s minaret rising up behind the bridge like a whisper of white smoke from a fire. On a clear day you can see all the way out to the Blidinje mountains beyond.

Wander through ‘New Mostar’

After crossing Lucki most, walk up along the western bank of the river through the new part of Mostar. This area is very different to the Old Bazaar and has a couple of noteworthy landmarks, including the gorgeous canary yellow Mostar Gymnasium ( Gimnazija Mostar ), designed by architect František Blažek, and the adjacent Plaza de España.

Just across the road, there is an abandoned building that was used as a sniper tower during the Bosnian War. Formerly the Ljubljanska Bank, it served as a station post for snipers who preyed on people trying to cross the boulevard.

The building is abandoned with street art murals inside and panoramic views from the top. It’s often closed off for safety reasons, however, so don’t be disappointed if you can’t get in.

Climb the Peace Bell Tower

Also on the western side of Mostar, the Franciscan Church of St. Peter and Paul was similarly rebuilt in the post-war years following its complete destruction in 1992. If you look closely, you can see bullet pockmarks on the walls of the nearby buildings. Next to the church, the Peace Bell Tower takes the accolade of tallest bell tower in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the tallest in Southeast Europe. It’s a bit ostentatious and out of place, but it’s very much worth visiting for the views from the top.

The 107-metre tower has a viewing platform roughly two-thirds of the way up. An elevator is on hand to whisk you up – but you do have to climb around 150 stairs at the end. There are photo exhibits along the way to keep you entertained. Just pray you don’t find yourself near the top of the stairs when the bells toll – the sound is deafening! They ring every 15 minutes.

The viewing platform is glassed in, but that doesn’t detract from the 360-degree panorama of the city, mountains and river. Sadly you can’t quite spot Stari most, though – it’s hidden by the rooftops.

The belltower is open from 9am until 5pm and costs around 6 KM per person.

Hike up Hum Hill to the Millennium Cross

A great way to spend the afternoon in Mostar is by heading up to the Millennium Cross on Hum Hill. Just like the Millennium Cross above Skopje , this monument is both a powerful religious symbol and a popular destination for panoramic views.

You can find a taxi to take you up for around 20 KM return, or you can take the scenic route and hike. The route starts from the area behind St. Peter and Paul Church, so you can quite easily add it onto your Mostar itinerary at the end of the day – perhaps even for sunset .

The hike is around 6 kilometres in total and takes 3-3.5 hours return, plus time at the top for photos. There is a risk of landmines in this area so it’s very important you stick to the road and don’t wander off into the brush.

A good compromise is to take a taxi to the top (10 KM) and walk back down via the road. See this guide for detailed instructions.

Pivos Mostarsko & dinner on the river

Finish your day in Mostar with another hearty meal and a bottle or two of Pivo Mostarsko, the local beer. I highly recommend finding a table at one of the riverside restaurants so you can look out over the twinkling city lights.

Urban Grill is a popular budget choice for cevapi and mixed grill plates. It has a wonderful open terrace directly overlooking the river and bridge.

Finish your Mostar itinerary by Revisiting Stari most at night

Use that last ounce of energy for one final lap around the Old Bazaar and across Stari most. The bridge is even more enchanting at dusk, when flood lights illuminate the stone towers and highlight the curving stone. Watch your step, the bridge can be quite slippery!

The cobbled streets of the bazaar shimmer, and the gentle lights set the wooden tables of bronze and silver souvenirs aglow. Then, the lights come on in the old Ottoman houses along the riverside – pure magic.

As soon as you see Mostar at night, you’ll thank yourself for spending a full day in Bosnia’s loveliest city and not leaving when the day trippers make their exit.

More than 24 hours in Mostar?

While you could very easily spend another full day or more in Mostar visiting the other museums, hiking around the city or just relaxing by the river, you could also go on a day trip from Mostar.

Herzegovina region is brimming with natural and cultural attractions, many of them very easy to get to from Mostar either by using public transport or by joining a day tour.

This day tour , for example, visits the Dervish Monastery, Blagaj Tekija, Kravice Waterfalls and the old Ottoman town of Pocitelj.

The Catholic pilgrimage site of Medugorje, Bosnia’s seaside town of Neum, and even Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia can all be visited in a day from Mostar.

How to get to Mostar

Sarajevo to mostar.

There are daily trains to Mostar from Sarajevo taking around 2 hours and costing approximately 17 KM per person. Take the morning train if you can – the scenery is quite beautiful, especially if you’re sitting on the left-hand side of the carriage. Book online here , then head to the information counter at the railway station with your passport to get your tickets printed.

Alternatively, a bus from Sarajevo to Mostar takes around 2.5 hours and costs 7-25 KM per person. Check times and reserve tickets online through Bookaway .

A great way to travel to Mostar and do some sightseeing along the way is by joining a one-way day tour from Sarajevo. This is exactly what we did on our visit. This one goes to Konjic, Blagaj and Pocitelj.

Dubrovnik to Mostar

Arriva and Globtour run coaches from Dubrovnik to Mostar. The journey takes just under 4 hours, and tickets cost 25-30 KM per person. Check times and reserve tickets online through Bookaway .

If you’re looking for a day tour option, this itinerary includes Mostar plus stops in Pocitelj and Medjugorje. Book it on Get Your Guide .

Split to Mostar

Coaches from Split to Mostar are operated by Centrotrans and Globtour. The trip takes 4.5 hours, and tickets cost around 33 KM. Check times and reserve tickets online through Bookaway .

Alternatively, book a full-day tour to Mostar from Split with Kravice Waterfall included.

What are you favourite things to do in Mostar? What should I add to my itinerary for my next visit? Let me know your ideas in the comments below!

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Perfect One Day in Mostar Itinerary (+Map)

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Mostar lies some 130 km (80 miles) from the capital city of Sarajevo, and not very far from the border of Croatia. The city got its name from the word ” mostari” meaning bridge-keepers. Thanks to its location, it can be easily added to any Balkan trip . If you are planning a visit, our one day in Mostar itinerary will be perfect for you!

One day in Mostar itinerary: Travel Tips + Day Trip Ideas 

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Mostar is a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is located on the Neretva River and is the unofficial capital of the Herzegovina region. 

Mostar is known for its Old Bridge, which was built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. The bridge was destroyed during the Bosnian War in the 1990s but was rebuilt in 2004. 

Today, Mostar is a popular tourist destination for its history and culture.

Here is what you can do in Mostar in one day.

One day in Mostar Itinerary: Top things to do in Mostar in 24 hours

Breakfast with Mostar’s iconic views

Soak in the city views from koski mehmed pasha mosque.

• Wander the traditional Old bazaar of Mostar & see the Stari Most

Check out the War Photo Exhibition

• Head to the crooked bridge for photos

Visit the Turkish Hammam

• Souvenir shopping in Turkish Bazaar 

See the Sniper Tower

Enjoy a lovely dinner before signing off, planning your trip to mostar: getting there.

You can easily visit Mostar from Sarajevo . There are numerous day tours, and public transportation options available to get you there. 

Being so close to the Croatian border, you can also explore Mostar from Split or Dubrovnik (even on a day trip). It is, however, best explored by car and you can easily include a stop on your Balkan road trip from any of these cities. 

Or by a guided tour.

• Day tour from Sarajevo to Mostar
• Day tour from Split to Mostar
• Day tour from Dubrovnik to Mostar

Public transportation to get to Mostar from Croatia will add long hours, and may not be feasible for a day trip. The fastest that you can get there is in 3 to 4 hours (one way) so it is doable if you are planning to stay overnight in Mostar (and it is a good idea if you do so). 

Road distance to Mostar from Sarajevo is 2 hours (130 km or 80 miles), Split is 2+ hours (166 km or 103 miles), and Dubrovnik is 2.50 hours (138 km or 85 miles). 

Note that Mostar has an airport, but your best bet will be to fly to Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, or Split for flight frequencies. 

Once in Mostar, you can pretty much walk around the Old Town/centre. 

Read: Most beautiful places in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Now, Mostar is a year round destination, especially charming in the spring and autumn, when there is less activity and the climate is sublime. Moreover, it is punishingly hot and crowded during the peak summer season.

Their official currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark or KM (also written as BAM), which is roughly half of the euro. 

Simply divide everything by two to understand the rate. Prices are mentioned both in KM and Euro, but you can still pay in Euro everywhere here.

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Where to stay in Mostar Bosnia Herzegovina

If you are looking for a particularly nice place to rest your head for a day in Mostar, then we can easily recommend Hotel Kapetanovina with its superb location and sumptuous breakfast spread. Check current prices here

Kriva Cuprija Hotel is a 4 star property (yet affordable) offering scenic river views. They also have a restaurant on-site and free breakfast is included in your stay. Book it here

There are a few hostels in Mostar, though none of them meet European standards. Still, a private room at Hostel Miran is a good budget option. The country is new to the travel scene, so don’t expect fancy bars and swimming pools as yet. Click to view the availability 

Taso’s House is another budget hostel in a quiet location, about ten minute walk from the Old Town. It is small, and cozy with shared dorms, but comes with free breakfast. The place is named after its owner Tasi, who literally comes to check and interact with every guest. Read reviews here

This itinerary is curated for an independent tour of Mostar, as it gives you the chance to arrive overnight and get a headstart the next day to avoid the crazy tourist hordes that typically descend between 09:00 am and noon.

Morning activities in Mostar

Wake up bright and early and begin your morning at a local cafe such as Urban Grill . 

Not only do you get the most delicious breakfast and amazing Bosnian coffee, but you can also enjoy unparalleled views of Mostar’s most iconic landmark, Stari Most or the Old Bridge, from a vantage point on their private terrace.

If you are a cityscape fan, head to the Koski Mehmed Pasha mosque , right next door to the Urban Grill. 

For a small admission fee of 3€ or 4 BAM, you can get access all the way to the minarets of the Mehmed Pasha Mosque and admire unbelievable views of the Neretva River as well as the Mostar bridge from the back of the garden.

That said, getting to the top can be tricky, as the staircase is extremely narrow and there are parts that are totally dark. However, once you reach the top, all the struggles are forgotten since you cannot come across a better vista anywhere else in Mostar.

If you want to gain knowledge of the town’s Islamic heritage, then you cannot go wrong at Koski Mehmed as the historic Pasha mosque also serves as a museum. 

Do not forget to check out the interiors with their colorful wall paintings and lavish carpets on the floors of the prayer room.

• Hours : Every day from 09:00 am to 08:30 pm (April to September) and 11:00 am to 5:00 pm (October to March)
• Address : Mala Tepa 16, Mostar 80807, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Tickets : 4 KM

Wander the traditional bazaar of Mostar + see the Stari Most

Now that you have seen Stari Most from afar, walk through the bazaar to this attraction of Mostar as it is worth visiting from close quarters.

If you are lucky, you will come across people with hats asking for donations from the crowd. These are the traditional Bosnian bridge divers, and once they collect around 50€, they dive off the bridge.

Head to the beach below to access the best vantage points to see their daring leaps.

Just adjacent to the Old Bridge is the War Photo Exhibition where one can gain an insight into the civil strife of the 90s. 

An excellent way to learn more about the turbulent history of the city and how it affected the inhabitants.

Over 50 photos taken by Wade Goddard, a New Zealand photographer, grimly portray how life looked like in those troubled times.

• Hours : 09:00 am to 09:00 pm (July to September), 10:00 am to 06:00 pm (March to June, and October)
• Address : Stari Most, Mostar 88000, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Tickets : 6 KM

Head to the Crooked Bridge for photos

After checking out Stari Most, walk across the bridge for about 150m where you will come across another famous attraction of Mostar, the Crooked Bridge.

Though not as crowded or popular as Stari Most, nevertheless it is a perfect place to rest and take some opportunistic photo shots.

This tiny bridge was built in 1558 over the Radobolja River and is an identical smaller version of its famous counterpart, hence all the similarities. 

Incidentally, the Old Bridge of Mostar as well as the surrounding areas of the Old Town have been on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list since 2005.

Now you can explore the western part of the city and visit the 16th-century old Turkish Hammam, one of the few of its kind in the country and the only remaining Turkish bath in Mostar.

The Hammam is right next to the crooked bridge and the entry to the Turkish Bath is a nominal 4KM.

• Hours : Weekdays 10:00 am to 05:00 pm (weekends closed)
• Address : 8RQ7+3G4, Rade Bitange, Mostar 88000, Bosnia and Herzegovina

After a hectic morning of sightseeing it’s time to taste some traditional Bosnian food, and while there are scores of outlets lining up both sides of the river, the restaurant Tima-Irma , near the Old Bridge, serves a memorable meal. Their platter of vegetables and local beef sausages is a local specialty.

Afternoon activities

Souvenir shopping in Turkish Old Bazaar 

Back across Stari Most, it is time to visit the Old Bazaar on the eastern bank of the river. 

The cobbled streets have managed to retain their quaint look over the centuries, and this is one place you will find stores selling the best souvenirs to remind you of your time in Bosnia and Herzegovina. So go for it, as this is the only place you will find them.

The bazaar is a bit small, just a couple of streets on both sides of the Old Bridge, but walking through it is very relaxing and a must do when visiting Mostar. 

The local products of the Balkans are excellent so you can be assured that what you buy will be genuine.

It is now time to head to some more modern parts of Mostar, where you will come across plenty of buildings that were hit hard by the Bosnian War.

The most prominent of them is on the bank just off the Spanish Square, now known as the Sniper Tower .

The tower, as the name suggests, was at one time a sniper’s nest used by Croatian soldiers during the conflict.

The building presently is in ruins, but the walls have been adorned with striking street art in and out, in total contrast with a stunning gym located right across the street.

Evening activities

Once the sun goes down, Mostar turns on its head. 

The quiet and quaint tourist getaway is transformed and acquires a completely new identity from Balkan parties, craft beer, and cocktail affairs to just picking up a drink from a nearby shop and sitting in front of the magical Old Bridge.

The Stari Most is something special when lit up against the night sky.

Located on this picturesque riverside is a quaint restaurant, Hinden Han , which offers typical Bosnian delicacies. 

Built in a refurbished old historical home, complete with wooden interiors, the outlet serves tasty non vegetarian platters apart from plenty of veg options. A must-try here is their eel and lobster offerings. 

An ideal place to while away your last few hours in Mostar before you head onwards.

Alternate tour recommendations for 24 hours in Mostar

If you can take time out of your one day itinerary, or have some extra hours to spare, you might like to visit any or all these other hotspots of Mostar.

Visit an Ottoman house:

The Ottoman Empire ruled present-day Bosnia and Herzegovina for over 500 years, as is evident by the remnants of the empire’s houses to this day.

Visiting this historic building is the best way to get back in time and learn about how the owners spent their lives in those periods. 

Some of the best examples can be found in the Biscevic House, Kajtaz House, and finally the Muslibegovic House, the three which are best preserved of all.

Free walking tour:

If you love walking, a free guided walking tour of Mostar will be just right for you, even though it may take up the best part of the morning to complete.

The tour usually begins from the Old Town and is highly recommended for anyone coming to Mostar for an authentic and informative experience.

The limited size of the group and the high quality of the guide is the highlight of the tour.

The Don’t Forget Stones: 

These are small stones found all over the city which remind the people about the civil war. 

One can be found near Stari Most, but as a tourist, it is important to understand the grim history behind it, rather than take pictures and gloss over it. 

Remember, tourism in Mostar may be thriving, but it was not so long ago it was under siege and many of the locals here have lost friends and family members due to it.

Carsija: 

In the heart of the Old Town lies the picturesque Carsija market, on both sides of the river and up to Stari Most. 

Due to its Ottoman influence, the market sells rugs, copper items, and souvenirs and is popular both with locals and tourists alike. In fact, a visit there provides a good glimpse into the Bosnian way of life.

Sightseeing Map: One day in Mostar itinerary

Day trips from Mostar Bosnia Herzegovina 

Mostar makes for a wonderful base for some good day trips, both around and in close proximity to the town where you can explore historical monuments and delve into nature.

Kravice waterfalls

Kravice waterfalls, often referred to as the Niagara of Bosnia are located on the Trebizat river and offer a stunning sight as they cascade down the limestone cliffs into the river below. 

This is an extremely popular destination, especially in the summer, when visitors come for picnics and swimming in the large lake which forms at the base of the falls. 

The waterfalls are about a 45 minutes drive, southwest of Mostar.

BOOK : Multiple stops in Herzegovina on a day tour

Blagaj is only 12 km (7.5 miles) away from Mostar and makes for a wonderful day trip as the distance is easily covered by road in under thirty minutes. 

The town’s claim to fame is because of two features, the historic Dervish House and the stunning natural beauty surrounding it.

The mystical place built into a cliff was at one time the meeting place of the Sufis, who practiced Islam and lured other travelers there. The house is gorgeous from the inside and well worth the admission fee of 10KM/5€.

Located only 25 km (15.5 miles) away, Medjugorje is another very popular spot for day excursions from Mostar. 

An important pilgrimage site, the place is known for its Marian apparitions, though still not accepted by the church. 

Visitors have been known to spend days and days in Medjugorje just to absorb its magical atmosphere and the surrounding areas.

Mostar Travel Tips and Resources

Mostar is the fifth largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the Neretva River. The city has a population of over 113,169 (2013) people and is the administrative center of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton.

The old town of Mostar is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its Ottoman-influenced architecture, which includes the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge) spanning the Neretva River. 

The city was originally built by the Ottomans in the 15th century, and later became a part of Yugoslavia after World War II.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind, when planning your trip to Mostar, 

First, the city is located in a Muslim-majority country, so be respectful of local customs and traditions. 

Second, the city is still recovering from the Bosnian War (1992-1995), so there are some areas that are still damaged and/or dangerous. 

Finally, Mostar can be quite hot during the summer months, so be sure to pack appropriately.

When it comes to getting around Mostar, walking is usually the best option as most of the attractions are located in the old town center. 

If you’re staying outside of the old town, you can take a taxi or bus to get around. 

If renting a car, you can do so here

As for accommodation, there are plenty of hotels and guesthouses available in Mostar. If you’re on a budget, there are also a few hostels located in the city center.

The average one day cost for a trip to Mostar is roughly $51 when staying in an average hotel on a twin share, $10 for meals, and $5 for transportation per person. 

A high-budget visitor should plan to keep aside $95 per day, for staying 24 hours in Mostar.

If you’re looking for a place to eat in Mostar, there are plenty of options available. There are a number of traditional Bosnian restaurants serving delicious meals. 

You can also find international cuisine in Mostar, as well as fast food options.

A common issue every tourist is concerned about when visiting any new destination is safety. This is natural! 

But having said that, Mostar is an extremely safe city, where the tourists will face no problems whatsoever and the locals go out of their way to lend a helping hand.

Was one day in Mostar enough?

To be honest, Mostar deserves one more day, but if it’s all the time you have, then there are ways to make the most of it. 

Mostar does not have a large number of attractions, but because they are so beautiful and capture your attention, you like to linger on them. 

For example, it is easy to spend hours at the Old Bridge itself and get swept by its history and nostalgia, not to forget the romance of the daring bridge jumpers. 

Finally, there is so much to see and do around Mostar, that it makes sense to use it as a base to explore the surrounding Herzegovina region.

Is Mostar worth visiting?

Yes, it is. We traveled from Canada (3 flights, 2 bus rides, and one tour to get there) as Mostar was on our bucket list and it didn’t disappoint. Mostar is a city full of history and culture, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. 

Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s Ottoman heritage or simply want to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Mostar is a great destination for all kinds of travelers.

Pin: How to spend one day in Mostar: Mostar Travel Guide

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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Home > 1 Day In Mostar Itinerary & 10 Things You Must Know

1 Day In Mostar Itinerary & 10 Things You Must Know

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

If you’re plotting a route through Bosnia & Herzegovina, carving out one day in Mostar is a smart move. This city isn’t just a checklist destination; it’s a deep dive into a culturally rich, history-packed hub that doesn’t skimp on the views.

In just 24 hours in Mostar, you can walk over the iconic Stari Most bridge, grab a coffee next to the emerald waters of the Neretva River, and meander through streets lined with history. It’s the kind of place where a leisurely stroll can turn into an impromptu history lesson, with each corner offering a new story.

For your Mostar day trip, I suggest that you dive (literally) into the local scene. You’ll find that Mostar is perfectly sized for a day trip—big enough to keep you busy, small enough to feel like you’ve seen its heart. My guide will show you how one day in Mostar will be for the gram.

Mostar is one of Bosnia & Herzegovina’s most beautiful cities and a top attraction in the Balkans . It’s rich in culture, history, and beautiful buildings. Whether you plan to stay for a few days or visit on a day trip from nearby Croatia, Mostar is definitely worth a visit.

Morning In Mostar

Start your early morning with a delicious breakfast, fuelling yourself up for a full day of sightseeing. Remember to get a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee afterward because the caffeine will definitely give you energy!

Next, head to Koski Mehmed Pasha mosque and, take a tour of the interior, and climb the minaret. Here, you’ll see some of the most breathtaking views over Stari Most, and you’ll learn about the mosque at the same time. Remember about mosque etiquette – ladies will need to cover their heads, everyone needs to dress modestly (no shorts or vest tops), and everyone needs to remove their shoes.

Afternoon In Mostar

It’s time for lunch, so stop at one of the small cafes around the Stari Most. Burek is a great lunch snack that will fill you up until dinner and give you a taste of something traditional. Then, head over to the Old Bridge itself. Take your time looking at the architecture all around you, take some photos, and then meander over to the Old Town to walk around the cobbled, winding streets.

You can purchase some great gifts from the souvenir shops to take back home; this area known as the Old Bazaar is quite large, so I urge you to really take your time here. From there, check out the Crooked Bridge and head over to the War Photography Exhibition to finish off your afternoon.

Evening In Mostar

You’re sure to be tired at the end of a busy day of sightseeing, so now you can head to a traditional restaurant to enjoy a delicious meal and a few drinks. Some of the best restaurants have fantastic views over Stari Most at night, and you’ll probably want to take more photographs at this point – snap away!

Bosanski Lonac is a famous dish around Mostar, and it’s perfect if the weather is a little chilly. This is a vegetable and meat stew that you eat with delicious crusty bread. Of course, you can also try the famous cevapi and dolma.

Can you really see Mostar in a day?

While Mostar is indeed a compact city, one day might leave you wishing for more, in my opinion. It’s not just about the number of sites you can cram into your day; it’s the city’s charm that’ll have you lingering.

But there’s more just beyond Mostar’s Old Town, like the serene Dervish House at Blagaj, the preserved Ottoman charm of Pocitelj, or the natural splendor of Kravice Waterfalls . With all these treasures nearby, you could stay a week ( here is where to stay ) and not see it all.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

There’s Plenty To Do In Mostar In One Day

It’s totally doable to see all the major attractions of Mostar in just one day. That’s precisely why it’s such a popular day trip destination from places like Dubrovnik , Split , and Sarajevo .

There are plenty of organized bus tours that can take you there and back, or you can rent a car yourself and enjoy some more freedom on your journey (even take one of these excellent day trips from Mostar on your own).

If you leave early enough, you can even swing by other incredible destinations like the Dervish Monastery in Blagaj Tekke or the historic village of Počitelj, both of which are recommended day trips from Mostar.

The Stari Most

A visit to the city of Mostar should start with the city’s one-star attraction. The Stari Most, known in English as Old Bridge, is in the very heart of the old city center. Spanning the beautifully clear Neretva River, this is one of the most iconic landmarks in the entire Balkan region .

Just seeing and walking across this world-renowned and famous bridge makes spending a day in Mostar worth it.

The visitor center is also near the Stari Most. Pay a visit for more in-depth information, and pick a city map. It’ll help you navigate the winding maze of ancient streets in the Old Town of Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Find local tour options here.

Bustling bazaars and beautiful mosques.

There’s much more to Mostar than the Stari Most, though. While many people come here to see the famous old bridge, there’s a lot more to explore. Countless shops, boutiques, and bazaars dot the Old Town, many of which line Kujundžiluk, Coppersmith’s Street in English.

This street is effortless to find, basically an extension of the cobblestone across the Stari Most on the Neretva River’s east bank.

As its name suggests, this bustling street is filled with stores selling all kinds of copper objects, from bracelets and other jewelry to kitchen tools and decorations. It wouldn’t be a bazaar if there weren’t an abundance of oriental rugs and other things being sold as well.

This is a super-fun street (with cobblestones!) to walk through. If you’re into shopping, you could spend hours browsing the shops. Needless to say, this is the perfect place to pick up some Mostar souvenirs .

Historically, Mostar has always been a city home to various ethnicities and religions. You’ll find churches, synagogues, and mosques here. The minarets of the latter are prominent features of the Mostar cityscape. Just behind the far end of Coppersmith’s Street, you’ll come across the Koski Mehmet-Pasha Mosque. This striking mosque is open to the public, and you’re strongly encouraged to visit it. You can climb one of the minarets for a spectacular view of the Old Town.

Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque

This beautiful mosque is the second largest in the city, having been complex back in 1618. The original was destroyed during the war, but it has been rebuilt since. If you want the very best view of Stari Most, head to the top and climb the minaret. A tour inside the mosque is also a great way to spend your time.

Kriva Cuprija – Crooked Bridge

Built in 1558, this is a smaller version of the famous Stari Most, and it’s a beautiful place to visit . It’s close to the original bridge, so you can easily see both in an hour or so.

Traditional Ottoman Houses

Stroll through the Old Town, and you’ll find a collection of traditional houses that offer a window into the Ottoman way of life—Peek into one to get a real sense of the past.

My favorite is the Muslibegovic House, once the residence of a distinguished local family, now a charming museum and hotel that retains its 17th-century splendor. For more of this historical vibe, Biscevic House and Kajtaz House are also must-visits, each with their unique stories to tell.

Bosnian War Photography Exhibition

Next to the Old Bridge, you’ll find Helebija Tower, which houses the War Photography Exhibition. This is a somber place to visit, but I 100% guarantee it is worth visiting. It allows you to learn more about the conflict and, therefore, more about the area as a whole.

Mostar Food And Drinks

After all that urban exploration, you might like to refuel at a local restaurant or bar . Luckily and conveniently, you’ll find plenty of those at Male Tepa and Braće Fejića, which are basically the northern extension of Coppersmith’s Street.

This vibrant boulevard is home to many eateries and watering holes, the perfect spot to finish off your day in Mostar with some typical Bosnia & Herzegovina food. If you’re feeling like a party , there are also some nightlife options in the area.

Brands We Use And Trust

10 things to know before you visit mostar.

Before you visit, you should know a few things in advance, such as:

1. You Need Proper Training To Jump Off The Bridge

Mostar’s Stari Most is an iconic landmark in the city and is famous for the (primarily male) divers that plunge off its ledge.

While tourists can join them, you need to be trained first. The divers club will train you how to jump correctly into the churning waters below without injuring yourself for a fee.

The bridge is about 24 meters above the water (depending on water levels), and the water below is cold with a strong current. It is dangerous , and jumpers have died taking the plunge. However, if you decide to go ahead and pay for training and complete the jump, you will get a certificate and your name in the official book.

2. When Is The Best Time To Visit Mostar?

Mostar is a year-round place, but if you want to be able to walk around more freely, it’s best to choose a time when rain or heat isn’t going to impact your visit. April to October see the best weather in the Mostar area, with sunny conditions and temperatures into the mid-30s. However, this part of the country can see rain at any time, so it’s always best to keep an umbrella in your bag in case of a short downpour.

During the winter months, Mostar is still open, yet you are far more likely to experience wet weather, and it will also be cold.

Winter tends to be the worst time to visit Mostar regarding weather since it is freezing and wet. However, prices will be lower at this time of year, so that’s something to consider if you’re trying to stick to a budget. There will also be fewer people to get in your way when you’re exploring.

3. The Stari Most Today Is Not The Original

Mostar’s famous landmark was destroyed during a war, blown into pieces.

The divers salvaged some of those pieces, and many line the shore, acting as seats for those watching the divers. The old bridge was rebuilt following the original design in 2004. If you are interested in learning more about the bridge, be sure to visit the Old Bridge Museum .

If you are interested in seeing photos of Mostar during the war, check out the War Photo Exhibition.

4. You Can’t Just Hike Through The Hills Alone

If you look out into the distance, you will notice that Mostar is surrounded by hills, many of which look perfect for hiking.

However, these hills are still full of landmines, making them incredibly dangerous. There are safe paths for  those who still want to hike , but it is recommended that you go with a guide who knows the way. Even then, make sure not to stray.

5. Most Locals Do Not Want To Talk About The War

Tourism surrounding the Balkan wars is to be found in Mostar, but let me remind you that it has been 25 years since the city was at war, so you are safe. That said, many residents still remember it and lost friends and family members during that time.

If you are interested in the stories, take a tour. The guides will tell you all the history, facts, and likely even personal stories. But please don’t press the locals unless they offer to tell you.

6. The City Is Still Very Divided

The war may be over, but the city still has animosity. There is still a physical divide: the Bosniak side to the east, the Croat side to the west.

The central divider is Boulevard Dr. Ante Starcevica, and those on one side rarely cross to the other. There are separate schools, churches, and even separate post offices.

Should you, as a tourist, travel both sides, you will notice a difference.

7. Visiting The Sniper Tower Is Considered Trespassing (Everyone Still Does It)

If you are familiar with the war, you will know about the sniper tower (I am unfamiliar with the history to give you specifics). Today, the building is an empty shell filled with smashed glass, chunks of concrete, and plenty of graffiti.

While it may not be legal, I recommend hopping the wall at the back and exploring the abandoned tower . It’s an incredibly atmospheric place that will help you better understand the horrors that happened. Just make sure to go during the day, while you can see. Plenty of open spaces, especially on the stairs, can be pretty dangerous.

8. Yes, You Can Swim In The River. But You Might Freeze!

It can get scorching in Mostar, making the River Neretva look incredibly attractive to take a dip.

You can, and many do, swim in the river on hot days. But it’s cold. The Neretva is one of the coldest rivers globally, averaging about 8 degrees Celsius (46 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer months.

If you decide to take the plunge, it is recommended that you splash your body first to adjust a little bit before submerging yourself.

9. You Don’t Have To Climb For Amazing Views

Most people head up to the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque tower for views of the city. Granted, the views are spectacular, but there are many stairs to climb, and perhaps not an easy feat for everyone.

In this case, I recommend heading to Bjeli Bar Terasa, grabbing a cold drink ( or coffee) , and taking in the view. From here, you are above the crowds with a clear view of the river, the bridge, and some of the city. It’s especially beautiful at sunset.

Find a Mostar travel guide and tour options here.

10. bosnian coffee culture is huge.

Bosnian coffee ( aka Turkish coffee ) is not just a drink. Preparing it and drinking it is a local custom meant to be enjoyed slowly and among friends. If you drink too quickly, you are actually ‘punished’ by tasting the grounds.

Drinking slowly and waiting the appropriate time for everything to mix ensures the perfect cup of Bosnian coffee.

Mostar is a unique and beautiful city and an absolute must-visit when you are in the area. Hopefully, these tips have provided you with some extra information and tips to make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans.

What is Mostar known for?

Mostar is known for its iconic Old Bridge, Stari Most, which is a popular tourist attraction in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

How long should I spend in Mostar?

It is recommended to spend at least a day in Mostar to explore the city and its attractions thoroughly.

What can I do in Mostar in one day?

In one day, you can visit the Old Bridge, explore the Old Bazaar, enjoy Bosnian coffee, visit the Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque and Tepa Market, explore museums, have lunch at a traditional restaurant, cross the Kriva Ćuprija bridge, admire the views from Lucki most, and revisit the Old Bridge at night.

Can Mostar be a base for exploring other areas?

Yes, Mostar can serve as a base for exploring the southern Herzegovina region and its attractions. There are several day trips you can take from Mostar to nearby attractions and cities such as Blagaj, Pocitelj, Medjugorje, Neum, Dubrovnik, and Split.

What types of accommodations are available in Mostar?

Mostar offers a range of accommodation options, including hostels, boutique hotels, and apartments. The choice depends on your preferences and budget.

How can I travel to Mostar?

You can reach Mostar by train or bus from cities like Sarajevo, Dubrovnik, and Split.

What are the best local dishes to try in Mostar?

In Mostar, you must try Ćevapi (grilled minced meat), Burek (meat or cheese-filled pastry), and Sogan-dolma (onion stuffed with meat). For a sweet treat, sample Baklava or Hurmašica.

How do I get around Mostar easily in one day? Is the town walkable, or do I need public transport?

Mostar is quite walkable, especially the Old Town and major attractions. For farther spots, local buses or taxis are available.

What are some hidden gems or less touristy spots in Mostar that I could visit?

Explore the quieter streets of the Old Town, visit the War Photo Exhibition, and take a stroll along the Neretva River for a more local experience.

What’s the average cost for a day in Mostar, including meals, transportation, and entrance fees?

Average costs can range from 30 to 50 BAM, depending on your choice of meals, transportation, and paid attractions.

Is it possible to include a short trip to nearby attractions like Blagaj or Pocitelj within a day?

Yes, it’s doable to visit either Blagaj or Pocitelj, as they are close to Mostar. Organized tours or local buses can take you there.

Where can I find the best views of Mostar for photography?

The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque offers panoramic views, and the Old Bridge is perfect at sunrise or sunset for photos without the crowds.

What is the best time of day to visit the Old Bridge to avoid crowds?

Early morning or late evening are the best times to avoid crowds at the Old Bridge.

Are there luggage storage facilities available in Mostar?

Yes, luggage storage is available at the bus station and may be offered by some local accommodations.

• Where To Stay In Mostar
• You Can Find More Balkan Travel Here
• Stay In The Capital City Of Sarajevo
• Day Trips From Sarajevo
• Where To Stay In Medjugorje
• Best Restaurants And Cafes In Mostar
• Best Day Trips From Mostar
• What To Do In Bosnia And Herzegovina
• How To Spend A Day In Mostar
• Must-Try Bosnian Desserts

Comments (3)

NICE POSTING

A real gem. Loved Mostar. Sad and beautiful at the same time.

Excellent article thanks. And stunning photos!

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1 DAY IN MOSTAR: A Step-by-step Travel Guide on What to do in Mostar (Bosnia & Herzegovina)

This travel guide has everything you need so you can make the most of your 24 hours in Mostar, including what to do, where to stay (with views of the bridge!), the best restaurants, and even a handful of practical travel tips. 

(The answer is a definite yes! ) 

Mostar is one of the most popular cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and for good reason! 

The most famous attraction is, without a doubt, the Stari Most (Old Bridge) that connects the eastern and western part of the city. 

However, it doesn’t end there: the city has a quaint historical bazaar with lots of souvenirs, charming cobblestone alleys, and well-preserved Ottoman buildings. Sounds awesome, right?

In fact, thanks to the city’s compact layout and a little bit of pre-planning, it’s completely possible to see Mostar in one day — and even fit in a day trip! 

Whether you’re planning to do a Mostar day trip from Dubrovnik or as part of your Bosnia & Herzegovina itinerary, this city certainly deserves a spot on your itinerary.

So without further ado, I present… what to see in Mostar in one day! 

Mostar Travel Tips

Prior to talking about the fun stuff, let’s go over a few quick and practical travel tips so that you can get the most out of your trip to Mostar: 

1- Time your trip around tourist crowds — This is my absolute top tip if you’re traveling to Mostar, as tourist crowds can often make or break your trip (especially in such a popular city!). 

If you have the chance, I highly recommend visiting Mostar independently (i.e. not on a group tour), because it gives you the chance to stay overnight the day before and/or wake up early to see the city without hoards of tourists. 

If you can’t avoid this, no worries! The other option is to visit off season (more on that below), when there are less crowds. 

2 -The best time to visit Mostar — Speaking of timing… summers in Mostar can be brutally hot (we’re talking around 35 C / 95 F!), especially when you consider that many attractions are out in the open. For this reason, I’d avoid visiting during July and August. 

On the other hand, shoulder season — April through June, and September to October — offer pleasant temperatures and a calmer atmosphere. 

3 – Is Mostar safe? — One of the most common questions when visiting Mostar (or any place) is typically, Is Mostar safe? The answer to that is yes, it’s very safe to visit Mostar and you won’t have any issues. It’s very tourist-friendly, and the locals are very kind and helpful. 

Two things to be aware of, however, are the dilapidated buildings and hiking off marked trails. Both pose a hazard of coming across explosive mines, which are a legacy left after the Balkan Wars — you can read more information in my 17 Bosnia Travel Tips under point 2.   

4 – You’ll find the best Stari Most views here… — If you’ve ever seen those amazing photos of the Stari Most on the internet, you’re probably wanting to get a similar shot.

5 – … But there are also accommodations with a view! — Since we’re on the topic of jaw-dropping views, did you know that there are some accommodations that have direct views of the Stari Most? 

Best of all, you can even book them — and enjoy waking up with a cup of Bosnian coffee and a once-in-a-lifetime view! Check out my Accommodations in Mostar post for five amazing places. ;)

6- The best place to stay in Mostar – Mostar was founded in 1452 and has kept most of its original layout to this day. While under the Ottoman empire, it was organized into two areas: the čaršija , an area of artists and commerce (i.e. the modern-day bazaar), and the mahala, or residential neighborhoods. 

Although Mostar is fairly small, first-time visitors should stick to areas in the Old Town, as that’s where all of the tourist attractions are located. 

Getting to Mostar  

Before you can see Mostar in one day, you’ll need to get there first! Thankfully, Mostar is conveniently located at the crossroads of four major cities: Split, Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, and Kotor.  

Psst — Is this your first time in B&H and/or are you coming from abroad? Check out my 17 Bosnia & Herzegovina travel tips so you can get acquainted with the country and properly prepare! :) 

FROM SARAJEVO

If you’re going to travel to Mostar from Sarajevo, you already have an advantage: this is one of the most beautiful journeys in Europe! You can take either the train or bus, as there’s really not much of a difference except for the departure times. 

Planning to take this route? Check out my How to Get From Sarajevo to Mostar post here for the bus and train routes, timetables, stations, and much more! 

FROM OTHER BOSNIAN CITIES

Besides the capital, Mostar is easily reachable from popular cities like Medjugorje, Neum, and Trebinje — a trip from either of these cities is less than 2 hours and has direct bus connections. 

FROM OTHER COUNTRIES 

Visiting Mostar from abroad? There are many ways to travel to Mostar, including via Flixbus , renting a car, or joining a private or group tour. Here are some popular departure points:  

FROM DUBROVNIK (CROATIA)

One of the most common routes to visit Mostar is a day trip from Dubrovnik, which is a leisurely 2.5 hour drive. 

The easiest way to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar is by Flixbus ( they have direct routes there and back !), although renting a car and going via a group tour are also popular options. 

FROM SPLIT (CROATIA)

Although Mostar is slightly closer to Dubrovnik, it’s still perfectly doable from Split. 

The journey from Split to Mostar is about 2.5 hours, plus time to go through border checks. Popular bus operators on this route include Flixbus , Croatia Bus International, and Globtour. 

FROM KOTOR (MONTENEGRO)

If you’re planning a day trip to Mostar from Kotor ( another gorgeous Adriatic gem !), you can expect the journey to be a little over 3 hours long. One thing to note is that there aren’t direct busses, so your best option is a rental car or private transfer .

Mostar has its own airport, although it’s not quite that popular (it had around 30 thousand visitors in 2019). A few destinations that travel this route include Madrid, Dublin, Shannon, and Dusseldorf. 

1 Day Mostar Itinerary

Now that we’ve gotten all of the practical tips out of the way, it’s time for the fun stuff! 

So, how do you spend a day in Mostar? Starting off the day with a cup of local coffee and a view of the bridge, before strolling through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town, getting a closer look at Stari Most, visiting a mystical Dervish house, trying traditional Bosnian dishes …

 I could keep going on and on, but let’s organize it into an itinerary! 

Dobro jutro! (Good morning)

As mentioned in the travel tips above, I highly recommend waking up bright and early. You’ll be the first one in town and, besides getting a head start on your day, beat the crowds of tourists that typically arrive between 9 am and noon. 

Start your morning off right at Urban Grill , which has one of the most beautiful views of Stari Most and a delicious breakfast to fuel your day — just ask for seating on their private terrace. 

If you’ve fallen in love with Mostar’s cityscape, I recommend visiting the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque after breakfast. It’s right next door to Urban Grill and, for 6 KM (3 EUR), you can climb all the way up to the minaret to see stunning views of the Neretva River and bridge. Don’t forget to check out the mosque’s beautiful interior and courtyard while there.

Now that we’ve seen the Old Bridge from a few different vantage points, it’s time to get up close! 

Walk south through the bazaar until you reach the city’s Old Bridge (Stari Most). If you’re lucky, you might be able to see the famous bridge divers. 

This tradition goes all the way back to the 1600s, where local boys would jump off the bridge and into the water as a rite of passage. Although this ritual is long gone, there are still professional bridge divers that make the 20+ meter jump almost every day. 

Typically, the Mostar bridge divers will walk around with a hat and ask the crowd for tips and, when they reach around 50 EUR, one of the divers will perform their famous act. Depending on the season, these bridge divers can make multiple jumps in a day!

Curious to try it out for yourself? You can! Adventurous travelers can visit the bridge diver’s club right next to the bridge and make an impromptu appointment (bring your swimsuit just in case). After paying the fee, a professional diver will train you while you do a few practice runs (on a smaller jumping board). Once you’re ready, it’s your time to shine and join the Mostar bridge divers club for your own jump! 

Once you successfully do the jump, you’ll get a certificate and have your name recorded in the club’s record book. :) 

Prefer to leave it up to the professionals? No worries — you can watch them do their thing on the bridge, or make your way to the beach below to get the best vantage points.

After checking out the Stari Most from the eastern bank, let’s cross the bridge and visit our next stop. 

If you walk about 150 meters straight, you’ll come across Mostar’s second-most famous bridge: the Kriva ćuprija (Crooked bridge). Ironically, this bridge is about 8 years older than its more famous brother (Old Bridge), as it was believed to be a smaller draft version before the Stari Most was built. Likewise, it’s not as well-known nor as crowded as the Stari Most, giving you the perfect opportunity to take a photo! 

Once you’ve got the perfect shot, we’ll walk to our next destination: the Spanish Square (Španski trg). You have two options: either go straight on the main freeway (Bulevar), or make your way to Rade Bitange street, which later turns into Adema Buća street. When you meet Mostarskog bataljona street, turn left and you’ll see a beautiful yellow building. That’s our spot!

Are you ready to take a quick day trip from Mostar? If so, let’s go to Blagaj! 

Blagaj is only 12 km (7.5 mi) away from Mostar and one of the most beautiful places in the entire country. Its claim to fame comes from two things: the historic Dervish House and the jaw-dropping nature around the area. 

Best of all, you can absolutely fit a day trip to Blagaj, as it’s only a 15-minute bus or taxi ride from Mostar. 

The entire trip will take about 1.5 to 2 hours: 30 to 40 minutes for the round-trip via bus or taxi, and an hour to 1.5 hours to walk around the Dervish house, take photos, and stroll around the spring (and, if you’re hungry, get something to eat!)

Prefer not to leave Mostar? No worries — I have a section below ( Even more things to do in Mostar ) that you can use to fill in this time. :) 

As mentioned above, you can take the bus from Mostar to Blagaj. There’s a bus station right in front of the Spanish Square. Take the #10, 11, or 12 bus and ask the driver to stop at Blagaj (pronounced blah-gah-yeh ). The ticket is 2.10 KM (about 1 EUR) for a one-way ticket. 

A slightly quicker option is to take a taxi, which will cost around 15 to 20 KM  (7.5 to 10 EUR) for a one-way trip. 

Once you arrive at Blagaj, you’ll need to walk a few minutes downhill to the Dervish House. This beautifully-designed building was a meeting place for the mystical Sufis, who would practice Islam and host other travelers here. 

I highly recommend buying an entry ticket to the house (10 KM / 5 EUR), as it’s absolutely gorgeous inside. If you’re a visual person, I have tons of photos and a detailed walkthrough in my Blagaj Travel Guide post !  

After exploring the house, be sure to walk to the other side of the shore, which has a beautiful vantage point.

If you’re hungry, there are plenty of restaurants around Blagaj (with a view of the house and river!), or if you prefer, you can go back to Mostar and grab something to eat there. 

Once you’ve made it back to Mostar, you may notice it’s a little quieter. Around sunset, most of the tour groups and day trippers have already left, which gives you a unique opportunity to walk around without the crowds. 

After a long and fun day of exploring, you’ve probably worked up an appetite. I have just the place for you! Tima Irma is one of the best restaurants in Mostar and cooks up delicious traditional Bosnian food on grill (see above!) 

Best of all, the prices are very diplomatic, especially for such a touristy city. A plate of cevapi costs about 8 KM (4 EUR), while a huge portion of different grilled meats (chicken filet, beef patties, skewers, cevapi, and more) for 2 people is about 30 KM (15 EUR). 

If Tima Irma is full, no worries — there are plenty of other great restaurants in Mostar! Here are some to consider:

🍴 Konoba Taurus — Although the menu is similar to Tima Irma, Konoba Taurus has an extra bonus: a beautiful view of the Crooked Bridge!

🍴 Food House Mostar — A nice and varied menu, including plenty of vegetarian choices. On certain nights, there are also traditional Bosnian dances and music performances. 

🍴 Pablo’s Restaurant & Club — For something a little more European, Pablo’s is the place to go. Besides the chic interior, this restaurant is known for its steak and friendly service. 

🍴 Restaurant Šadrvan — Beautiful traditional decor, plenty of space, and delicious food. They also have an outdoor dining area as well.

Once you’ve enjoyed your dinner, I recommend making a final stroll through the city — the Stari Most has a special atmosphere when it’s lit up in the night sky.

Even more things to do in Mostar

If you’ve got a few extra hours, you might be interested in visiting one (or all!) of these other attractions in Mostar: 

📍 Visit a historic Bosnian house —Modern-day Bosnia & Herzegovina was ruled under the Ottoman Empire for nearly 500 years and, as such, there are still remnants of the empire’s culture to this day. 

One of the best ways to go back in history is to visit a historic house. Luckily, there are three that have survived to this day: the Biscevic House, Kajtaz House, and Muslibegovic House.

The Biscevic House is arguably the best-preserved of the three houses. It was built in 1635 and contains traditional decor, furniture, and artifacts from the era. 

Meanwhile, the Kajtaz House is slightly bigger and contains more rooms. The cheerful owner conducts a short tour and talks about the history of his family’s house. 

Finally, the Muslibegovic House is of special interest, because it’s a hotel/museum! You can actually stay in this traditional house , and the owners will give you a tour.   

📍 See the city’s colorful street art  — Although Mostar is famous for its historical tourist attractions, it’s also a popular city to see something a little more modern: street art! Keep your eyes peeled for colorful murals, graffiti, and local art, which is concentrated near the Sniper Tower, Bulevar, and Alekse Šantića street. There’s also a street art festival every year, and you can check out their convenient map of street art here . 

📍 Learn more about Mostar’s history at a museum… — Bosnia and Herzegovina had a tumultuous history in the 1990s, as it was the center of the Yugoslav Wars that saw thousands of people lose their homes, lives, and/or loved ones. Mostar is especially important, as it was one of the most heavily bombed of cities during the war. 

If you want to learn more about the war, there are two powerfully-curated museums on the topic: the Museum of War and Genocide Victims and the War Photo Exhibition. For more information about the most famous site in the city, there’s also the ​​Museum of the Old Bridge. It offers a fascinating look into the Old Bridge, including the original stones (before the bridge was destroyed during the war), a photo gallery, and a documentary video. 

📍…Or with a fee walking tour — If you’re a fan of the free walking tour format, you’ll love Sevko’s tours . He’s a local from Mostar who brings the city’s history to life in an interesting and engaging way. During the high season, there are up to two tours a day (which is great if you were busy in the morning!) 

Where to Stay in Mostar

A fun-filled day deserves a comfortable and relaxing place to stay. Here are some of the best accommodations in Mostar: 

Old Bridge Terrace Apartment — I’m sure you’ll fall in love with this apartment, which has a million dollar view of the Stari Most! You’ll definitely make the most of your 1 day in Mostar with Old Bridge Terrace Apartment, which has a cheerful yellow terrace with a 360 degree view of Mostar’s Old Town, the Neretva River, and, of course, the Old Bridge. WHERE TO BOOK : Booking.com | Agoda | Hotels.com

Pansion Villa Nur — If you love to support local businesses, you’ll love Villa Nur. This sweet guesthouse is run by a super hospitable family that will be happy to host you. Besides the comfortable double rooms, there’s also a shared kitchen that’s stocked with complimentary drinks (coffee and tea) and homemade ice cream! There’s also super fast WiFi and direct access to the Old Town. WHERE TO BOOK : Booking.com | Agoda  

Shangri La Mansion — If you’ve seen my Best Hotels in Mostar blog post , you might recognize this property. From the friendly workers to the jaw-dropping view of the Old Bridge from the terrace, you’ll be amazed from the moment you step through the door. Best of all, prices start at just $55! WHERE TO BOOK : Booking.com | Agoda | Hotels.com

Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija   — If you want to experience the historic atmosphere of Mostar, the best way to do so is by staying in this ancient heritage-listed limestone house! 

The hotel is named after the Crooked Bridge (Kriva Ćuprija) because it’s steps away from the famous landmark. There are 28 different rooms to choose from, which are decorated in traditional Bosnian motifs. WHERE TO BOOK : Booking.com | Agoda | Hotels.com

Looking for even more accommodations in Mostar? No worries, I’ve got you! I have an entire blog post with the 15 Best Places to Stay in Mostar (including 5 places with jaw-dropping views of the Old Bridge!)

If you want to check out all 400+ hostels, apartments, guesthouses, and hotels in Mostar, I’ve also included an interactive map below — just type in your dates and click ‘Search.’ Finally, you can check Booking.com , Hotels.com , or Agoda for a full list.

Photo credits: Mostar bridge diver – Darcey Beau | Mostar restaurant – Đorđe Pandurević

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25 Amazing Things to Do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Last Updated on 26/04/2024 by kami

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina is among the Balkan highlights and one of the most popular places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina (or maybe even the most popular one). And it is so famous for a reason – the city is just amazing and definitely offers more Mostar attractions than just the iconic Old Bridge.

Mostar is also one of my favorite cities that I always like returning to. I was lucky to visit Mostar a few times and I had a chance to get to know the city a bit better than most of the tourists who usually can spend only one day in Mostar.

While you can see all the highlights in those few hours I recommend staying in Mostar a bit longer, to enjoy it to the fullest. And today I will be happy to share with you all I know about this amazing city, including all the best things to do in Mostar as well as some tips that will help you plan your trip to Mostar.

Planning a trip to Mostar?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Hotel Sinan Han (9.0/10)
• Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Ćuprija (9.4/10)
• Hotel Almira (9.2/10)

Tours and activities:

• Mostar Private Walking Tour
• Discover Herzegovina Day Tour
• Break-up of Yugoslavia & The War in Mostar: Life Under Siege

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Bosnia and Herzegovina on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Where is Mostar

Mostar, the city of around 60 thousand inhabitants, is located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, some 130 km from the capital – Sarajevo and not too far from the border with Croatia . The name of the city comes from the word “mostari” meaning bridge keepers.

Why visit Mostar

Most of the people visiting Mostar come here to see the famous Old Bridge and that’s the first solid reason why you should consider a trip here. But Mostar is more than just this iconic structure. There are numerous other, interesting monuments in Mostar that I will tell you in detail later on.

Wandering through the colorful bazaar, on the slippery stones makes you feel like the time has stopped here.

After the recent Balkan War in the 1990s Mostar has been unofficially divided between Bosniaks and Croats so discovering the city beyond the old part is like a live history lesson.

Mostar can be also used as a base for some great day trips around – in the close proximity to the town you will find old towns, historical monuments, and some amazing nature.

Mostar is a great introduction to Bosnia and Herzegovina and thanks to its location the city can be easily added to your Balkan itinerary.

A brief history of Mostar

The area of Mostar was inhabited already in Roman times. In medieval times, two banks of the Neretva river were connected by the wooden bridge. The settlement was on the trading route from the Adriatic Sea to the mainland and grew as the Turkish administrative center.

In 1875, after the anti-Turkish uprising, the city became part of the Habsburg Empire and after its collapse, in 1918, it was incorporated into the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. In the times of the Yugoslavia, Mostar developed and became one of the most important cities in the region, but the Old Town remained the same, with its charming vibe.

Since March 1992 Mostar is in the independent Bosnia and Herzegovina however already two months later, in May 1992, the terrible fights of the homeland war have started. Not only many people lost their lives and had to relocate but also numerous monuments have been destroyed, including the iconic Old Bridge.

The war ended in 1995 and even if you still can see a lot of remnants from these tragic times Mostar is a laid-back and safe place to visit.

Mostar travel tips

How much time to spend in mostar.

Most tourists visit Mostar only for a few hours, as a day trip from Dubrovnik , Split or Sarajevo. And you can see a lot in one day in Mostar but also the town can be a bit packed with tourists and you will be rushed in your sightseeing.

I recommend spending at least 2 days in Mostar – you can see the Old Town without the crowds, discover the city beyond as well as explore the area around Mostar – it hides some really great places!

How to get to Mostar

Getting to Mostar is actually rather easy from all the directions.

If you travel from Sarajevo you have frequent buses as well as two trains per day. I recommend taking the train – the views along the way are breathtaking! The bus offers some nice views too but those from the train are much better.

You also have at least one bus connection per day from other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as Bihac , Banja Luka, Tuzla, Travnik , Jajce or Trebinje .

If you travel from Croatia you can easily get to Mostar by bus from Dubrovnik or Split , there are a few connections daily. You can also take the direct bus all the way to Zagreb but this would be a long journey so it’s better to split it somewhere along the way.

There is also a direct bus from Belgrade (Serbia) but it takes 11 hours, fortunately it goes overnight.

Kotor (Montenegro) is fairly close but the buses go around via Podgorica and therefore take way too much time. If you plan to go from Kotor to Mostar (or the other way around) I recommend direct transfer by 360Monte , they are cheaper and faster than the bus.

How to get around Mostar

Most of the Mostar attractions are located within a walking distance from each other and that’s your best way to get around the city. Even to some of the places located a bit further away, such as the Bruce Lee monument, you can get on foot.

If you would like to visit Hum mountain or the abandoned hangar you should go by car. For the day trips around Mostar, it’s best to go by car too or to join the organized tour (like this one ).

Is Mostar expensive?

Even if Mostar is a very touristy place the prices there are affordable (especially if you compare them to nearby Dubrovnik). You can expect to pay €10 or less for the meal in the restaurant, the coffee should be around €2 or less. The accommodation prices depend on the location and the standard but they are very fair too.

In general, Mostar is not an expensive place to visit.

Solo female travel in Mostar

I often travel solo to the Balkans and a few of my trips to Mostar were solo as well. I never had any issues.

I remember when I arrived in Mostar for the first time, in the evening. The city can be a bit dark in the evening and it might feel abandoned but there was not much to worry about and my biggest enemy was my imagination.

If you are a careful observer you might notice some tensions between two parts of the city but as a tourist, it shouldn’t bother you too much. People in Mostar are very friendly and welcoming and I made some good friends with locals there as a solo traveler.

• Are you planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina? Be sure to join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and be part of the amazing community of like-minded travelers. Click here for the access!
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Things to do in Mostar

Now, that you know all about visiting Mostar it’s time to talk about all the best things to do in Mostar. And there are plenty of them, you won’t be bored for sure!

Walk across the famous Old Bridge

The Old Bridge in Mostar is probably the most famous and most photographed place in Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of the most iconic sites to visit in the Balkans.

Originally it was built in the middle of the 16th century and replaced the older, wooden bridge connecting two parts of the city divided by the Neretva River. Unfortunately, during the Balkan War, on November 9th, 1993 the bridge was destroyed ( you can see the heartbreaking video here ) and what we can see now is the rebuilt version. Stones from the original bridge were used to complete the new structure that was finished in 2004.

In fact, the city Mostar was named after the bridge – “Old Bridge” means “Stari Most” in Bosniak language.

The bridge is only 30 meters long and 4 meters wide but crossing it can be a bit tricky, especially with too many tourists around (which happens often in Mostar). The bridge is rather steep and really slippery so you need to be extra careful when walking. Be sure to have comfortable shoes, flip flops are definitely not recommended!

The Old Bridge in Mostar, together with the surrounding Old Town is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2005.

Climb to the minaret for the best view of Mostar

There are a few excellent viewpoints from where you can admire the Old Bridge in its full glory but the most spectacular one is from the minaret of the nearby Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque.

Getting to the top can be difficult, especially for those who are claustrophobic – the staircase is very narrow. During my visit, there were parts where the light was not working so I had to go up in the complete darkness (fortunately there were no other tourists so we didn’t have to maneuver to pass each other).

But once you are on top of the minaret you forget about the struggle as you are in awe with the view. You can see the 360 degree panorama of Mostar, with the Old Bridge right in front of you. This view is actually worth every effort, you can’t find a better vista anywhere else in the city.

Find other viewpoints to admire the Old Bridge

If you feel like getting to the top of the minaret of Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque is too difficult for you I have good news – there are many other great viewpoints in Mostar.

My two favorite ones are from Lučki most bridge (the next bridge on Neretva river, you can see it from the Old Bridge) and from the riverfront on the left side when facing the bridge. To get to close to the river you need to turn right on the Gojka Vukovića street, near the Konzum store, next to the parking and the ruined houses.

This place is usually less crowded than the bridge and surroundings but offers such a good view of the Old Bridge. I spent hours there, just relaxing and enjoying the place.

You can also have a good view of the Old Bridge from one of the restaurants located near it, many of them offer terraces where you can dine with enjoying the beautiful panorama around.

Find the Crooked Bridge

After seeing the Old Bridge you should find the Crooked Bridge (Kriva ćuprija). It is a bit hidden behind Onešćukova street (main shopping lane leading to the Old Bridge), only a few steps away from its more famous brother.

The Crooked Bridge was built in 1558, eight years before the Old Bridge and it is an identical, smaller version of the iconic Mostar attraction. The tiny bridge over the Radobolja River was created as the prototype of the Old Bridge hence all the similarities.

What you can see now is the rebuilt version of the bridge – the original one was destroyed during the flood in 2001.

While there are usually crowds on the Old Bridge, the Crooked Bridge is blissfully empty and you can easily admire the engineering masterpiece of the old times.

Wander around the bazaar

The Old Bazaar – Kujundžiluk – is the most charming (although a bit kitschy) place you will find in Mostar. It is also one of the oldest parts of the city, dating back to the middle of the 16th century.

The Bazaar with its cobbled, winding lanes used to be the center of Mostar, with over 500 workshops! Today the place is very colorful, bustling with souvenirs sellers and tourists doing their shopping in Mostar.

This is actually the best place for souvenirs shopping in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the prices are really reasonable.

The bazaar might be a bit small, only a few streets on both sides of the Old Bridge but wandering around it surely is a big pleasure and one of the best things to do in Mostar.

Shop for local goodies

If you like to try local produce, especially in the liquid form, you can buy some home-made rakia and other alcoholic fruit drinks in Mostar. They are very good so it’s easy to lose track when trying them all. Just a friendly advice – you want to learn from my mistakes so don’t mix them or you will have a very difficult morning.

Besides alcohol, you can also buy locally made jam and honey. The local produce in the Balkans is very good so you can be sure the things you can buy here will be delicious.

You will find the shops with local goodies in the bazaar area.

Visit Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque

The view from the minaret isn’t the only reason why you should visit Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque. It was built at the beginning of the 17th century and is one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture in Mostar.

The interior of the mosque is bright and colorful and so very beautiful. During the Balkan War, the mosque was badly damaged but it was restored and can please the eye of the visitors again.

Visit other mosques in Mostar

While the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is the most popular mosque in Mostar, there are a few more Islamic temples that are worth visiting.

Karađoz Bey Mosque from the 16th century is the largest mosque in the region, with the impressive dome. This is still the working mosque so remember to respect all the rules and prayers time when visiting.

Another mosque worth paying attention to is Nezir-agina mosque near the Crocked Bridge.

Visit the War Photo Exhibition

If you are interested in the recent Mostar history I recommend visiting War Photo Exhibition.

It is located in one of the Old Bridge towers (on the opposite side of the river from Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque) and shows photos from the 1990s Balkans War in Mostar. There are around 50 pictures, taken by the New Zealand photographer Wade Goddard, showing how the life in Mostar looked like in this tragic time.

From the tower you can also look at the Ol Bridge from the unique perspective so that’s another bonus from visiting the exhibition.

Visit the Museum of the Old Bridge

In the opposite tower, you can visit the Museum of the Old Bridge. It was opened in 2006, shortly after the bridge was rebuilt, and focuses on the iconic structure, its history and important events. There are also archeological objects that were found at the beginning of the 2000s, during the reconstruction of the bridge.

This is a great place to learn more about the famous Old Bridge and its background.

Visit the Catholic Church and Franciscan Monastery

When you visit Mostar you will notice the high tower of the Catholic Church right away. Originally it was built in 1866 but was destroyed during the war. The rebuilt version included a much higher tower (to emphasize the Croat group and the Christian legacy in the city) and the Franciscan Monastery.

You can take the elevator up to the top of the tower to see Mostar from another perspective.

Visit Muslibegovic House and Biscevic House

To see the beautiful old residential houses from the Ottoman period you should visit Muslibegovic House and Biscevic House. They were built in the 17th century and today both serve as the museum now and can give you an insight into the life in old-times Mostar.

Moreover, you can spend the night in Muslibegovic House which was considered one of the best accommodations in the world a few years ago. Click here for more details about the accommodation in Muslibegovic House.

Find war remnants in Mostar

Mostar was badly hit during the 1990s War, with heavy fights in and around the city. Still today you can see many remnants of these tragic times.

While in Sarajevo the majority of the destroyed buildings is in fine condition now, in Mostar you can find ruins around every corner. In the Old Town, everything looks nice and shiny and only a more observant visitor will spot “Don’t forget ’93” signs.

But if you go a street or two beyond the touristy area you will find destroyed houses and bullet holes on the walls. The symbol of the war in Mostar, besides the Old Bridge, is the so-called “Sniper Tower”. The former bank’s building was used as a shooting position and today only the skeleton of the building is left, reminding everyone of the tragedy of Mostar.

You can read more about Mostar war remnants here.

See the infamous Sniper Tower

This is probably the most haunting building in Mostar, a sad reminder of the war in Mostar, contrasting with the stunning gymnasium that is located on the opposite side of the street.

Before the 1990s War the building served as the bank but when the fights have started snipers used it as their position – after all you could see most of the city from the high building. Today the building is a ruin but the local artists used it as their gallery – you can see lots of murals on the wall surrounding the Sniper Tower as well as inside of the building.

It is forbidden to go inside and the entrance was bricked up but if you are fit enough you can jump over and do some urbex.

Say hello to Bruce Lee

You might not expect that but in Mostar you can meet Brue Lee, or at least his life-sized statue. It was unveiled in November 26th, 2005 and was the first Bruce Lee statue in the world (the famous one from Hong Kong was unveiled only a day later). You can find it in Park Zrinjevac, next to the Sniper Tower in the center of the city.

It is supposed to be a symbol of the solidarity in the ethnically divided city, however the sculpture was often vandalized as locals saw it as a provocation. Still, it is such a quirky place to visit, showing you that Mostar is more than just the famous bridge.

Enjoy the street art scene

One of the most surprising things in Mostar is its amazing street art scene. You will find some amazing murals all over the city, especially on and around the abandoned Sniper’s Tower, near the university and along Alekse Šantića street. There is also the annual street art festival with artists from all over the world creating their works on the walls of Mostar.

I wrote the whole article about street art in Mostar – click here to read it .

Admire the beautiful gymnasium building

Located a bit away from the Old Bridge, the gymnasium is one of the most beautiful buildings you will see in Mostar. It looks almost like a copy of Vijecnica – the Town Hall in Sarajevo.

The gymnasium was established in 1893, as the second school of this kind in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the stunning building was finished in 1902. It was designed in the Moorish Revival Style, as the way to promote Bosnian national identity and today it is considered a national monument.

The gymnasium is still located in the building but you can at least admire how beautiful it is from the outside.

Enjoy the food scene

Bosnian food is really delicious and you can try it in Mostar. Most of the restaurants are located in the Old Town and even if they are in the tourist area the prices are still fair.

Some of the Bosnian dishes you should try include grilled meat, cevapi and pljeskavica (minced meat).

Unfortunately, vegetarians will find it a bit difficult to eat local dishes but restaurants usually have some meat-free options too, often grilled vegetables which are very delicious.

Drink the famous Bosnian coffee

Bosnian coffee is a heaven for all the coffee-lovers. It’s strong, thick and will definitely give you lots of energy when you get tired of Mostar sightseeing. What’s more, it’s served in a traditional set, called džezva – it’s a small pot with a long neck, usually beautifully decorated). The coffee in it tastes even better!

You can try traditional Bosnian coffee in numerous places around the Old Town.

Admire brave divers

Each year in the summer, at the end of July, the famous diving competitions take place in Mostar. Brave men jump from the Old Bridge to the cold Neretva river and this event always brings a lot of people who admire their exceptional skills and courage.

But even without the competitions, you can see local guys hanging out at the bridge, collecting money for the jump – once they have enough (usually it’s around 50€) you can see them jumping in the traditional style. It takes only a few seconds but it sure looks impressive!

Go to the Hum mountain for the stunning view of the area

You most likely will notice the hill with the big cross towering above the city – that’s Hum mountain. The Millennium Cross that appeared on top of the mountain, seen from most parts of Mostar, was a bit controversial among the Muslim community in the city (just like the tower of the Catholic Church).

The best way to get to the mountain is by car but if you decide to walk be sure to follow the road too as the hillsides might be still mined. From the mountain, you can admire the spectacular panorama of Mostar and the surrounding area.

See the real face of the city

Most of the people visit Mostar only to see the Old Bridge and the area around and don’t really go beyond the old town. That’s a big mistake!

It’s worth to go out from the touristic bubble and wander around the random parts of the city. You will see how the real Mostar looks like, with numerous cafes where local hang out and sadly still too many reminders of the difficult times in the 1990s. But to get the full idea of the city it’s worth seeing these parts of Mostar too!

Visit the abandoned aircraft hangar

Fans of urbex and exploring abandoned places will find yet another interesting spot in Mostar. On the outskirts of the city there is an abandoned aircraft hangar.

It is hidden on the hillside and was used to keep fighter jets in the time of the Yugoslavia. Today this is just a huge concrete cave with nothing inside.

Be sure to take comfortable (and covered!) shoes and a flashlight when you decide to visit the place, you will need them.

Walk around the Old Town in the evening

The majority of tourists visiting Mostar come for a day only, often as a day trip from Dubrovnik. In the evening the Old Town is blissfully empty and that’s when you will see and feel the true magic of the place.

If you are lucky and visit off-season, you might even have the whole area to yourself and hear nothing but your own steps on the cobbled streets.

In the evening, when the crowds are gone, Mostar reveals the different face and that’s what makes this town so unique and amazing. You don’t want to miss that!

Go for day trips from Mostar

While Mostar itself is a great place to visit, the city can be also used as a perfect base for some day trips around.

The most popular places you can go to from Mostar are Blagaj (with the Dervish house and spring of river Buna), Pocitelj (a charming little town, glued to the hill above Neretva river, a perfect example of the Ottoman architecture), Kravica Waterfall and Medjugorje (famous for the religious cult). The best way to see all these places at once is to join the tour – click here for details.

However, you can also visit places a bit further away, such as Konjic, Trebinjne or Stolac. You might even go for a day trip to Dubrovnik from Mostar!

Final thoughts on visiting Mostar

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina was my dream destination from the moment I saw the picture of the iconic bridge. It was years ago, I had no idea about the history, background and importance of the city but this single view was enough for me that I’ve wanted to visit Mostar really badly.

The city didn’t disappoint, I fell for it hard from the moment I saw the Old Bridge and enjoyed it more and more with every minute. Today it is still one of my favorite places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina and in the Balkans and each time I see the Old Bridge my jaw drops a bit. This view never gets boring.

I’m sure that you will enjoy Mostar as much as I did. It is a truly unique and amazing destination that you can’t miss during your trip to the Balkans!

Further reading

I published many articles about Bosnia and Herzegovina that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 17 best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• 37 Best Things to Do in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Ostrozac Castle – the Hidden Gem of Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Bihac, Bosnia and Herzegovina – the Getaway to Una NP
• Visit Travnik – the Heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina
• What to See in Jajce, Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Visegrad, Bosnia and Herzegovina – See the Iconic Bridge on the Drina

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in the Balkans and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Bosnia and Herzegovina here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Mostar too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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12 Comments

Hi Kami I loved reading about Mostar – a place I really want to visit. Like you, the bridge and the fairytale buildings just seem to want to lure me there. I have pinned for future reference. I was not expecting to see the Bruce Lee statue in Mostar! I have seen the one in Hong Kong so guess I need to see the one here as well.

Thank you, Angela! I love Mostar but there is so much more to see there than just the bridge. I hope you will go there one day and discover all these great places yourself! :)

How good is Mostar! We absolutely loved hiring a car from Dubrovnik and spending a few days in this region! My daughter was 5 at the time, she loved watching the diver off the bridge and skimming rocks into the river. We adults of course enjoyed the food and coffee! Your post definitely covers all the important places to see in Mostar! Our family has such fond memories here!

Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed Mostar too. This is such a unique city!

Hi! Thanks so much for posting this. I am about to plan a trip to Bosnia, and I am not sure whether it’s a good idea to rent a car from Sarajevo to Mostar if train riding is so praised:) can I easily access Kravica waterfall, Tekija Blagaj and Pocitelj from Mostar by bus?

You can easily get by train or bus from Sarajevo to Mostar but then the places near Mostar are available by car mostly (only Blagaj can be reached by bus). But you can go on a tour or find a driver for a reasonable price that would take you there (that’s what I did).

Benjamin Ibragic

Great info! Thanks a lot!!!!

Glad you found it useful!

With an agency, we did a bus daytrip tour from Osijek to Mostar and Blagaj. It was long and exhausting trip. 18 hours in bus, and only hour and half in Blagaj and 3 hours in Mostar. I am definitely not a fan of that kind of trip, but sometimes I go with agency because I don’t have to worry about driving. Blagaj was our first stop. It was nice to see spring of Buna river and have a coffee in a nearby restaurant. After that, we visited Mostar. We walked only around old city and admired old bridge. Čevapčići in restaurant was delicious. I would like to come back and explore more of the Mostar, beyond old city. Staying overnight sound as a good idea. Happy travels!

Many people visit Mostar only on short day trips but this place and it’s surroundings definitely deserve more time as there is so much to see and do, and the atmosphere is so great. Hopefully you will be able to return there one day and enjoy it some more!

Hello Kami,

your information about Mostar is so comprehensive. I am so excited to go there as it is happening at the end of August but I joined a tour so I cannot expect longer time to see all. I am so disappointed even before going since that will not be as joyous as you mentioned. I will do my best most out them. thank you for the info.

I’m sure you will enjoy Mostar anyway. This is such a wonderful city, so beautiful and full of history. Have a wonderful trip there!

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A Trip to Mostar: Between History and Wonderful Nature

A trip to Mostar is a must if you ever plan on visiting the Balkans. A unique city filled with culture, natural beauty, and history, Mostar is a must-see in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through these links I may receive a small commission, with no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services I tried or I find useful and reliable.

I visited Mostar in September when the crowds were already starting to diminish but the temperature was still pleasant and the days quite long. This is probably an ideal time to visit the Balkans area if you wish to avoid big crowds but still want to enjoy the sunshine.

I spent two days in the city and, although I wish I could have stayed longer just for the pleasure of walking around the old town, I believe this is already a good amount of time to explore the main sights. With a few extra days you could also explore the surroundings. My trip to Mostar was a short deviation while I was visiting Croatia. I went there by bus and, as I passed by, I could see incredibly beautiful places. So I am planning on going back to explore more of the natural sights the country has to offer.

What I loved about Mostar is how nature seems to have merged with man-made landmarks and buildings in a perfect balance. I loved sitting at a restaurant and looking over the small river and the greenery surrounded by beautiful stone houses. Or sitting on the bank of the river, the city right above, and feeling completely immersed in nature.

Some historical and cultural context before your trip to Mostar

Despite the beauty of the city, it’s hard not to acknowledge that the wound of the Bosnian war has not yet healed. It is tangible in the memory of the people who have lived it and the areas of the city that haven’t been entirely rebuilt. Visiting Mostar inevitably means remembering the atrocious war that happened not that long ago. Although Mostar seems to have been reborn from its ashes, the separation between the three religions and ethnicities in the city remains. Bosniaks are mainly Muslim, Serbs are mainly Orthodox, while Croats are Catholic.

By talking to locals, it’s easy to understand how this division still affects their daily lives. Even beyond the places of worship, the division affects schools and social gatherings, not to mention the city itself. Mostar is still somehow divided between the majority of Muslims on the east side and Croats on the west side of the bridge. But rather than separating, the bridge – rebuilt in 2003 – aims to do what all bridges do: connect the two sides.

Even the country’s politics still embodies this division. Did you know Bosnia and Herzegovina has not one but three presidents? Yes, three presidents are elected every four years, each representing one ethnic group/religion. The presidents then rotate and govern the country for eight months at a time. This, for instance, is something I did not now before visiting Mostar.

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Enough with the history lessons as I am not the most suitable person to give them. You can find places in Mostar where you can learn more about the history of the city and country. However, my trip to Mostar made me realize how much I still need to learn, and I believe that’s the beauty of travel.

Without further ado, here are the sights you shouldn’t miss and a few more to add to the list if you have enough time.

Admire the Renowned Stari Most

The most famous landmark in Mostar is Stari Most, the Old Bridge. The original bridge dated back to the 15 th century, when Mostar was an Ottoman frontier town. The bridge gave the name to the city, as mostari means bridge keepers. Back in the day, the bridge was an exceptional technological achievement as it had the widest arch in the world.

Unfortunately, the bridge and most of Mostar’s historical center were destroyed during the Siege of Mostar, between 1992 and 1993. Croat forces destroyed several mosques and blew up Stari Most. The bridge is a reminder of the most tragic event in the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it also represents a symbol of resilience. The reconstruction of Stari Most started in 1997 and ended in 2004, when the bridge, the exact replica of the original Stari Most, was inaugurated.

I found Stari Most one of the most unusual bridges I’ve ever seen, not only due to its architecture. Crossing the bridge is not such an easy peasy task like mindlessly walking around. No! You need to be careful as the stone is really slippery and they have added these sorts of narrow steps, so you won’t slip and fall, but that means paying attention not to trip. It’s hard to explain but watch your step!

Discover the “Crooked Bridge” Kriva Cuprija

Not too far from Stari Most, you’ll find what seems like a miniature replica of the main bridge, over the much smaller Radobolja river. Kriva Ćuprija appears to have been built before Stari Most, as a model for the latter, to test if the semicircular arch would withstand big loads. Like its bigger relative, Kriva Ćuprija was also destroyed during the war and had to be rebuilt.

I liked the bridge and the entire area around it, with stone houses and lots of greenery. It’s just a bit tucked away from the more touristy areas and much quieter but truly beautiful. Make sure you don’t miss it!

Visit Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque and Minaret

Another great example of Ottoman architecture, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is the most renowned mosque in the city. A trip to Mostar wouldn’t be complete without paying a visit to the mosque. Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is on the bank of the Neretva River, right before the whole market street. The entry ticket includes a visit of the interior and the climb to the minaret.

Side note: Ladies need to wear clothes covering the legs. I happened to be wearing shorts on that day so I wore one of the skirts that were available for unprepared visitors like me. The skirt is easy to wear on top of your clothes so no need to worry if you arrive unprepared. I thought I had to cover my arms as well but apparently it wasn’t necessary. P.S. Yes, I did choose the skirt that matched my top. 😀

The interior has white walls with colorful decorations and a collection of carpets in different styles and colors cover the floors. From the mosque, you can access the narrow staircase that will take you to the top of the minaret. The little balcony offers a 360 degree view of Mostar, including the river, the ever-present Stari Most, and the colorful buildings of the old town.

Discover Beautiful Local Street Art

In the less touristic area of the city, where the signs of the war are still visible on some of the buildings, beautiful street art decorates the ones that have been rebuilt. If you have some extra time, venture a bit further from the main landmarks on the western side of the city, near Carinski most (the bridge right next to the bus station).

If you walk down Tvrtka Miloša and Alekse Šantića you’ll have the chance to see some truly beautifyl street art on the renovated buildings. It’s a different side of Mostar that I really appreciated.

Enjoy Lunch by the River

If there’s one thing that shouldn’t miss from your Mostar trip is experiencing traditional cuisine. NearKriva Ćuprija, alongside the small river, there are many traditional restaurants with beautiful terraces overlooking the small valley. I enjoyed having a late lunch at Divan, a restaurant serving traditional Bosnian dishes at truly affordable prices.

As you access the restaurant from the main road, Onešćukova, you wouldn’t expect to have such a view. But walk down a narrow staircase and you’ll reach a lovely terrace, perfect to enjoy the warm weather. I wanted to try different traditional dishes so, in the end, I opted for a chicken soup (Bey’s Broth) and the Herzegovina mixed plate, which had different stuffed vegetables with a side of mashed potatoes. One of the most fulfilling and heart-warming meals I had during my entire trip. 

Make the Most of Your Mostar Trip with a Taste of Bosnian Coffee

If you’re a coffee-lover, you cannot pass on a traditional Bosnian coffee. Very similar to Turkish coffee, once again due to the Ottoman influence, Bosnian coffee is brewed and served in a small copper pot (ibrik). As opposed to Turkish coffee the Bosnian one doesn’t come already sweetened. You’ll be served the pot along with a cup and sugar cubes, so you can sweeten your coffee as you desire. Probably one of the best parts of Bosnian coffee is the beautifully decorated coffee set. And if you like sweets, Bosnian coffee is often accompanied by a Turkish delight (or lokum).

You’ll find many places to have coffee in Mostar but one worth paying a visit is the lovely Café de Alma, close to the old bridge. The traditional décor and the beautiful outdoor space make it a perfect stop for a morning coffee or an afternoon break. Here, you can even learn more about Bosnian coffee, the traditional way to drink it, and the story of the shop.

Indulge in Heartwarming Traditional Cevapi

A traditional meal in all Balkan countries, ćevapi (or ćevapčići) is a grilled dish made with a mix of minced meat and served in groups of 5 or 10. They actually look like small sausages without skin.

You can eat ćevapi pretty much in any Bosnian restaurant. You can have a quick takeaway pita bread with ćevapi or sit at a restaurant and have a rich plate of ćevapi with vegetables, sauces, and traditional flatbread.

One of my favorite spots in Mostar was Tima-Irma . Aside from serving traditional Bosnian food at super affordable prices, the restaurant has a traditional vibe and a super friendly staff. If the weather is nice, sit outside so you can enjoy the warmth and watch people passing by. But make sure to arrive early and prepare to queue for a while. The place is really popular, and it doesn’t have many tables so it’s likely there will be a line. I decided to go for a dish called Pljeskavica. The plate consisted of a sort of stake made from the same mix as ćevapi, a side of vegetables, and traditional flatbread.

Explore the Colorful Markets

In the old town, on both sides of the river, you’ll find colorful markets selling all types of souvenirs, decorations, toys, and traditional objects, like gorgeous coffee sets. I could spend hours admiring the elaborate decorations on coffee pots and cups, each with different colors and motifs. Whether you plan or buying something or not, checking out the shops is a must. And to be honest, it’s impossible not to, since the shops take a great part of Mostar’s old town.

Dive from the Old Bridge or Just Visit Mostar during the Red Bull Cliff Diving Competition

The world-famous Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series has added Mostar to the list in 2015. However, the bridge had been a famous diving spot for centuries. Apparently, the first dive from the Old Bridge took place in 1664. Since 1968, the city has held a yearly diving competition with by the Mostar Diving Club.

Depending on the level of the river, the dive takes place from somewhere between 20 and 27 meters of height. So I would dare say it’s not exactly for everyone. However, even if you’re not a professional diver, you can still attempt the jump. For 50€, you can get diving advice, practice from a lower platform, and attempt the big jump. If you do jump, you’ll become a member of the club for life, and you’ll even get a certificate for your endeavor. Little detail to remember, the Neretva river is one of the coldest in the world (some say the coldest), and even during the warmest months, it’s around 7 degrees Celsius.

If you don’t feel like diving but enjoy a good show, plan your trip to Mostar during the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series. Check the Red Bull website for the dates and more details.

Check out the Museums to Learn about Mostar and Bosnia’s History

If you have enough time and you enjoy museums, there are two main ones you could pay a visit to. I personally didn’t manage to visit them as I was working and I prioritized exploring the city and, well, trying the local cuisine.

Herzegovina Museum has a wide collection of items, documents, and photographs to attest to the country’s cultural heritage through various historical periods. You can visit the museum every day except for Mondays from 8 AM to 4 PM. The official website of the museum has additional information you can check.

Another museum worth visiting is the Museum of War and Genocide Victims. This museum was opened and is maintained by the families of war victims. I am actually planning on visiting this one if I’m ever going back. Here you can have a deeper understanding of the impact of the Bosnian war on the city. Visiting the museum is an emotional experience as you can read personal stories of the people affected by the war and learn about the horror that took place in the country not so long ago.

Planning Your Trip to Mostar

You have several options to travel to Mostar. There is a nearby airport, Mostar International Airport (OMO). However, it only has a few connections at certain times of the year, mainly in summer. Alternatively, you can fly to Sarajevo and catch a train to Mostar. There are two daily trains to and from Mostar, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. If you buy a return ticket you also have a 20% discount, for a total of 19.40KM (roughly €10 or $11). Check the timetables and prices on the official Bosnian railway website .

In my case, Mostar was a stop during my month-long trip throughout Croatia. I traveled by bus from Split to Mostar and from Mostar to Dubrovnik. There are a few bus companies that connect Mostar to Croatia. Prices can vary depending on the season and how long in advance you buy the tickets. I spent less than €35 on both tickets. I normally use Getbybus , Flixbus , or Omio to find cheap bus tickets.

As for accommodation, I stayed at Student Hotel Mostar , five minutes walking from the bus station. I was looking for something cheap but at the same time, I wanted my own room for a change. This was a great option and only around 20 minutes walking from the city center. It even had breakfast included! You can find lots of affordable options for hotels and hostels on Booking.com .

One thing to keep in mind is that Bosnia and Herzegovina is not in the EU. If you have a European sim card, make sure to disable data roaming to avoid overpaying (which I did because I am so used to traveling within the EU). If you need any type of documentation for your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, iVisa.com makes it easy to find out the necessary documents and to apply for everything in just a few minutes, without the stress of having to fill out several application forms.

Last but not least, the currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Bosnian Mark (BAM), locally abbreviated as KM. One mark is roughly €0.5 and $0.6. I always use the Xe currency converter App to know how much I’m spending.

And that’s about it. Enjoy your trip to the gorgeous city of Mostar and hopefully explore more of Bosnia and Herzegovina. As for me, I can’t wait to go back!

Hi, I'm Roxana! I am a travel writer trying to see as much of the world as possible and share with you my stories and travel tips. Thank you for reading and following me, I'm so happy to have you here!

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The 11 Top Things to do in Mostar Bosnia Herzegovina

This guide to the top things to do in Mostar explains what to do, where to stay, and other travel tips for the city.

When most people plan a European vacation, Bosnia Herzegovina is not the country that first comes to mind. However, Mostar Bosnia is having a viral moment on social media and quickly becoming a popular vacation destination.

Bosnia Herzegovina is still recovering from the Bosnia war that occurred from 1992-1995. The war was part of the fall of Yugoslavia when Bosnia fought for their freedom.

The remnants of the war are still apparent through the building ruins, developing infrastructure, and governmental changes.

Although the country is in recovery mode, now is the perfect time to visit. The history of the country is amazing – both the recent war and further back history as well.

Since tourism is still growing in the country, it’s still affordable and not too crowded.

The final reason to visit is that Mostar looks like it is straight out of a fairytale. From the moment I stepped into the Old Town, I was in awe of the quaintness of the town, with cobblestone streets, riverside restaurants, and a ton of charm.

Keep reading for the best things to do in Mostar and an easy one-day itinerary for this amazing city.

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The Best Things to Do in Mostar

Most of the best things to do in Mostar are walking and viewing the historic sites of the city. Below, I list what to do and the top sights to see.

1. Mostar Free Walking Tour 

When you arrive in Mostar, the best first activity is a free walking tour to get a crash course on the history and an overview of the top sights.

You will learn about the war, history, and significance of Mostar. You will also walk around the town and learn about the important neighborhoods and buildings.

The free walking tour meets at the Spanish Gymnasium, a big yellow building that is a 10-minute walk from the Mostar old town center.

From here, you will walk through the Muslim and Christian sides of the city, over the Mostar bridge, and past the most notable ruins.

Beginning to end, the tour will take around an hour and a half. Even though this tour is free, be sure to provide a tip for your guide. I suggest between 15-30 Euros per person.

2. Stari Most  

Stari Most, which translates to “Old Bridge” is the iconic bridge that you will see in most photos of Mostar. It’s an UNESCO world heritage site and dates back to the 15 th century.

One of the most popular things to do at the bridge is jump off of it. Each year, Redbull hosts a giant annual diving competition.

At the top of the bridge, will see locals asking for money to jump. Once they raise around 50 euros, they will jump off into the water. If you want to see someone jump, be prepared to wait because it can take up to an hour for them to raise the funds.

Tourists can also pay for a class to jump off the bridge. The class includes instructions on safe jumping, and practices jumps from lower platforms.

3. Koski-Mehmed Mosque

For four Euros, you can climb to the top of the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for great views of the town

4. Mostar Peace Bell Tower

Another great viewpoint that you can climb for only 3 Euros. There is also a ton of history around this Tower as it used to separate the Muslim and Christian sides of town.

5. Old Town Market

On the Muslim side of the river, there is a small market where you can buy handcrafted gifts and souvenirs. The most authentic item to buy in Mostar is any copper goods. I bought a cute copper bracelet for only 3 euros!

6. Wine Tasting

Before I visited, I had no idea that wine is produced in Bosnia Herzegovina. Turns out, it’s a very bustling wine region!

During your time in Mostar, one of the best things to do is wine tasting. At the very least, be sure to order a bottle (or two) of local wine at dinner.

For a more detailed wine experience, I highly recommend wine tasting at this cute shop near Stari Most. Unfortunately, I don’t recall the name of the shop, but it’s the first shop when you cross the bridge on the Muslim side.

The store sells wine, jams, candles, and other food products.

For the wine tasting, simply approach the store owner. They will take you to the exclusive upstairs wine tasting area and bring you through the tasting.

The tasting includes samples of Bosnian wines and education about it. In addition, the tasting room has some of the best views in the city.

7. Try the Local Food

When you’re in Mostar, you need to have at least one local meal. I highly recommend the mixed grill plate at Hindin Han.

Hindin Han is a super cute, traditional restaurant with a deck that overlooks the river. The mixed grill includes a bunch of traditional Bosnian meats, potatoes, and sauces.

8. Old Bridge Museum

Learn more about the history of Stari Most and the reconstruction process at the Old Bridge Museum. The museum provides insights into the significance of the bridge and its cultural importance.

9. War Photo Exhibition

Gain a deeper understanding of Mostar’s recent history by visiting the War Photo Exhibition, which documents the impact of the Bosnian War through powerful photographs.

10. Karađoz Bey Mosque

Another beautiful mosque in Mostar, the Karađoz Bey Mosque, is worth a visit for its unique architectural features and serene atmosphere.

11. Kriva ćuprija (Crooked Bridge)

Visit this smaller, less famous Ottoman bridge, which is also quite picturesque and provides a peaceful setting for a stroll or photography.

Where to Stay in Mostar

Since Mostar is an up and coming vacation destination, there aren’t many large or luxury hotels in the area.

If you prefer hotels, are chasing loyalty points, or looking to redeem rewards, the Mostar Marriott is a no-brainer.

The other best place to stay in Mostar is a vacation rental . There are many apartments and homes for rent within walking distance to Old Mostar and with views of the river.

Mostar Marriott   – This Marriott is the clear best choice for a hotel in Mostar. It’s only a five-minute walk from the iconic Mostar bridge, which is the center of the tourist area.

The hotel is also new, with a trendy design, spacious common areas, and a pool.

Vacation Rental   – Since there aren’t many hotels in Mostar, a vacation rental is a great option. There are a variety of houses and apartments near the old town, depending on your group’s size.

Where to Eat

Prior to this trip, I couldn’t have told you what Bosnian cuisine was. Now, I’m obsessed with it. The simplest description of Bosnian cuisine is grilled meats and comfort food.

My favorite thing to order on every menu was the mixed grilled which usually consisted of grilled chicken, steak, sausages, and cevapi.

The mixed grilled was the perfect amount of food to split between two people, especially when paired with pita and sauces.

Below are my favorite restaurants in Mostar. All of them have great food, amazing views of the Neretva river, and reasonable prices.

Hindin Han  – Super cute restaurant with two level deck that overlooks the river. The mixed grill plate is also delicious!

Lagero  – Arguably the best view in the city and the food is great too! Get here early to secure and outdoor table with views of Stari Most.

Tima Irma  – This was the most recommended restaurant in Mostar, but was unfortunately closed during my visit.

Café de Alma  – Stop by here for a midmorning break to experience traditional Bosnian and Turkish coffee

Quick Facts

Currency – Bosnia Herzegovina has its own currency, called the Mark. I don’t recommend getting any of this currency unless you are spending a long time in the country or visiting remote areas.

In the popular tourist areas, Euros and Croatian Kuna are widely accepted.

Language – Most people in Mostar speak both Bosnian and English

Climate – Summer in Mostar is in the 70’s-80’s, which is perfect for walking around town. In the winter, temperatures get down into the low 50’s, but it’s comfortable if you have a warm jacket.

The Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mostar is in the summer. This is when the weather is best and the most activities in Mostar are available.

Typically, I don’t recommend visiting Europe in the middle of summer because the crowds are too large. However, the off season is super slow in Mostar, and most restaurants and tours actually shut down.

In order to do all the top activities, be sure to visit in peak season from May-September.

How Long to Visit

Mostar is an amazing city, well-worth visiting. That said, I don’t recommend staying for longer than two nights.

The town is small, and there isn’t a ton to do. Two nights will allow you enough time to see the highlights and get a feel for the city.

If you are short on time, Mostar can even be visited as a day trip from Split or Dubrovnik Croatia .

You will notice a surge of tourists between noon and 5pm, when tourists are bussed in for the day. After dinnertime, the town will be very calm.

Traveling to Mostar

Flying to Mostar – There is an international airport in Mostar (OMO) that you can fly into

Driving to Mostar – Since Mostar is a short 1–2-day destination, you will likely be combining your time in Mostar with time in other cities.

If you are driving into Mostar, it’s super simple. From different countries, the border crossing is easy and only requires a passport and vehicle documents.

The roads in and around Mostar are well maintained and easy to navigate. Once you are in Mostar, there is quite a bit of street parking, but spots are small so practice your parallel parking.

Getting Around Bosnia Herzegovina – Once you are in Mostar, everything is walkable. However, I suggest renting a car to get between the airport and Mostar, then Mostar and your next destination since public transportation is sparse.

Trip Extensions from Mostar

Balkans Road Trip – The best way to visit Mostar is part of a Balkans Road trip. Driving through countries in the region such as Montenegro, Croatia, and Albania is the perfect way to explore this part of the world. Check out my Balkans road trip itinerary to learn how to plan a trip of your own.

Croatia – Croatia is one of my favorite countries in the world, and it’s only a few hour drive from Mostar. The perfect trip extension after visiting Mostar is heading to Dubrovnik or Split.

These coastal cities have a ton of history, accessibility to amazing islands, and rich culture.

More of Bosnia Herzegovina – I’ve only visited Mostar in Bosnia, but I’ve heard great things about other cities such as Sarajevo.

You could easily hit a few Bosnian cities in a one week trip to get a true taste of the country.

Summary of the Best Things to Do in Mostar

If you aren’t convinced to visit Mostar by this point, I don’t know what to tell you!

This town is so charming and now is the perfect time to visit this hidden gem before everyone else figures it out. Be sure to take the walking tour, then spend the rest of your time wandering the streets eating and shopping.

Shoot me a message if you have any questions about Mostar, or just want to chat.

For more Europe travel itineraries, check out my guides to places like Croatia, Greece, and Italy.

Related Posts:

• Balkans Road Trip 10 Day Itinerary & Ultimate Travel Guide
• The Top Things To Do In Mostar Bosnia Herzegovina – Travel Guide And One Day Itinerary
• Travel Guide & Itinerary For One Day In Dubrovnik Croatia
• 2 Days In Split – The Top Things To Do And See In Split Croatia
• Europe Trip Itinerary: Planning The Perfect 3 Weeks In Europe

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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TOP THINGS TO DO IN MOSTAR IN ONE DAY (OR TWO)

WHAT TO DO IN MOSTAR – 1 OR 2-DAY ITINERARY

Table of Contents

Are you planning your Mostar trip and wondering about the best things to do in Mostar in one day? Then this post is for you – here you will find out what to do in Mostar in 1 or 2 days plus many important travel tips.

Mostar is beautiful! It really is a beautiful old town. While you could see the attractions of Mostar in a few hours, I recommend staying a full day (or even overnight) in Mostar so that you can experience Mostar in the evening. I stayed for a few days, but I think, one day in Mostar is a good amount of time, to explore the main attractions in this charming city.

Like many places in Bosnia-Herzegovina , Mostar suffered a lot during the war in the 1990s . So, while the war and its scars are visible, the focus is now on the gorgeous and cute places in Mostar! 

While it is officially a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar lies in the Catholic Herzegovina , in the southern part of the country. The city is divided by the gorgeous Neretva River . On the western side of the river, you mostly have the Catholic Croats, and on the eastern side, you have the Muslim Bosniaks.

As a visitor, you will not notice the tensions. Your day will be filled with friendly locals and plenty of beautiful places in Mostar. 

DISCLAIMER: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. THIS MEANS I MIGHT EARN A SMALL COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY A PRODUCT/SERVICE (AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU). MORE ABOUT IT  HERE .

Here is some quick information before we discuss your Mostar itinerary.

MOSTAR HISTORY AT A GLANCE

• Bosnia-Herzegovina was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire for more than 400 years . So, it is the food with a Turkish influence and the religion (Islam) and the architecture that will remind you of Turkey.
• The beautiful mosques and other buildings make it a pretty, kind of exotic place. After the Ottomans, the Austrian-Hungary Empire ruled the country (which ended with WWI). However, in Mostar itself, you do not see that much Austrian influence (unlike Sarajevo).
• After that, Bosnia-Herzegovina became part of Yugoslavia. 
• When Bosnia strove for independence during the 1990s , there was a terrible war, and this country suffered the most. You will see its scars even these days – I highly recommend learning about the war in Yugoslavia and Bosnia-Herzegovina in particular. It is heartbreaking but helpful for understanding the political situation in the country (which is probably one of the most complicated systems in the world).

And while it is not yet on the radar of many Western visitors (though this has changed in recent years), you will find many Turkish tourists. So it is surely not a hidden gem.

PIN ME FOR LATER – PLACES TO VISIT IN MOSTAR

IS MOSTAR WORTH VISITING?

Yes, Mostar is worth visiting . Mostar is such a beautiful town – colorful, charming, and cute. It is a wonderful mix of Asia and Europe with many historical sights. 

THINGS TO DO IN MOSTAR IN ONE DAY

Now, let’s talk about the best things to do in Mostar in a day. At the end of the post, you will find many tips (like how to get around, where to stay, and more).

Admire Stari Most

I did a tour, and according to my tour guide, Mostar means “Bridge Keepers, ” as the Stari Most was the only bridge people could cross. Keepers stood at the end of each side, collecting money from people crossing it.  

For about 400 years , it was the only bridge that linked the two parts of the town – so, even back then, it was a gold mine. I am pretty certain that it is now the main reason for many to visit, and thus, again an important source of income.

However, the bridge was destroyed during the war in 1993 . With donations from foreign countries (and their own financial investment), the bridge was rebuilt and opened in 2004 . It is a replica – stone for stone – and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Be warned: It gets hectic. I visited at the end of April, and it was packed already. If you don’t want to rub shoulders with everyone else, come here early in the morning (and of course, it is lovely in the evening, too).

Watch People Diving

• There have been deaths reported . Mostly when people are drunk and jump from the bridge at night. However, I personally would not recommend anyone jumping.

Stroll the Old Town

Also, in the Old Town, you will find traditional Ottoman Houses – some of them are open to visitors.

So are Biscevic House, Kajtaz House, and Muslibegovic House . Muslibegovic House, built in the 17th century, is now a hotel and a museum.  

The old town of Mostar has become one of my favorite old towns in Europe. It is different from the old towns in Italy, Germany, Switzerland, etc. yet no less charming.

Walk Kriva Cyprija Bridge

Visit Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and its Minaret

The Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and its Minaret  is another must-see in Mostar. As mentioned, I visited with my little dog . Even though he was in a bag, we were not allowed to enter the mosque or the mosque grounds.

However, this is probably one of the best places to visit in Mostar . The pictures taken of Mostar from here look beautiful, and so does the mosque itself.

The 17 th -century Koski Mehmet-Pasha Mosque is the second biggest mosque in town and is located on the center’s east side. You cannot miss it when you are in the old town as the minaret is quite dominant.  

• You can enjoy the views from the mosque grounds (the entrance is around 3€). 
• You can also climb the 88 steps of the minaret for panoramic views of Mostar for an entrance fee of about 6€, and if you have one day in Mostar you will have enough time to visit it.

Stroll the Neterva River

Wondering what I have a thing with rivers – yes, it may sound weird, but I love a nice river. And for the longest time, my favorite river was the Aare River in Switzerland – but the Neterva River is among my top 5 of the most beautiful rivers . It runs through Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina.   The current is fast, the watercolor is beautiful… and you can stroll along it.

Unfortunately, you cannot always walk right next to the river, but take your time and head out to the less crowded places to walk alongside it. If you stay a few hours in the town, you will probably not have enough time to do so, but with one day in Mostar, that should be on your itinerary.

Swim in the Neterva River

Are you a good swimmer? I am not, but in the summer months, it can get boiling in Mostar . Taking a dip in the cold water of the Neterva River is probably one of the best things to do.

However, if you go to the beach area near the bridge , it looks a bit calmer, but the current is very fast . Do not underestimate its strength and stay away from swimming in the river if you are not a good swimmer.

But you surely can dip your feet into the water, which is still refreshing.

See the “Don´t Forget“ Stone

The rebuilt Mostar Bridge is just one of the reminders, but the  stone will also act as a commemoration (it is just next to the bridge, so keep an eye out as it can be overlooked quickly).

Drink Bosnian Coffee

Visit the War Photo Museum

• Opening hours are normally from 9 am to 10 pm every day (please double-check as I could not find an official website).
• The entrance fee is a few €.

Learn About the War at the Museum of War and Genocide

The Museum of War and Genocide is dedicated to the war and genocide in the 1990s.

Since I was traveling with a dog, I decided not to visit the museum. Also, it is supposed to be intense . But it is probably a good way to learn more about the war as the museum explains what happened during the 1992-1995 war.

You will find out about the genocide, concentration camps, mass graves, crimes against children, and more cruelty during the war …There are personal belongings and statements of victims and more authentic items displayed.

• The entrance fee is around 5€, and the museum is located between the old town and the modern shopping street.
• Open every day from 9 am to 9 pm (please double-check as I could not find an official website to confirm the opening hours).

Go on a Walking Tour

• The starting point is at Hamam Museum , which is a 10-minute walk from the old town.
• The tour covers many of the best things to see, but you have time afterward (the tour takes about 90 minutes or so) to visit these places on your own.
• Tours are offered from April to September.
• Check out their website for more information .

Visit Mostar Sniper Tower

The Sniper Tower  is an abandoned, bullet-riddled building and one of the tallest in the area. It was a former bank – Ljubljanska Bank – used by Croatian soldiers as a hiding place and shooting ground . The building has not been repaired or torn down, so you can see it from the outside.  

I was told not to visit as it is kind of forbidden, but it has become a popular place for street artists, and there is apparently good graffiti on all ten floors. 

MORE ACTIVITIES FOR YOUR MOSTAR ITINERARY – 2 DAYS

One day in Mostar is a great idea. But I suggest making Mostar your base and staying two or three days in Mostar and visiting some surrounding areas.

Here are some of the places I had visited before I arrived in Mostar – highly recommended for your Mostar itinerary.

Head to Blagaj Monastery

• It is located about 10 kilometers from Mostar .
• I got there by car, but you can also take a bus from Spanish Square (bus lines 10 and 11) or do an organized tour like this one .

Spend Time at Kravice Falls

• The waterfalls are beautiful – and you can do an organized day trip from Dubrovnik and see Mostar, Pocitelj, and the waterfalls in one day.

Visit Počitelj

I am not sure about that, but I can imagine it being the case. The tower offers amazing views, so even for an entrance fee, it is well worth it!

TRAVEL TIPS FOR YOUR MOSTAR TRIP

After all the tips about the best things to do in Mostar, here are some travel tips for your first trip to Mostar.

How to Arrive in Mostar

Many people arrive from Dubrovnik (Croatia) or Sarajevo. Both cities have airports, and you can get to Mostar via bus or train (from Sarajevo only). Apparently, the views are scenic, as well as by car.

If you drive your own car, make sure your car is insured in Bosnia-Herzegovina, and you carry your (green) insurance certification with you.

Parking in the old town will be tricky. I booked accommodation that offered parking and left my car there for the entire 24 hours (and did not need it at all). There is some parking available, but it will cost you (around 8-12€ a day).

If you get to Mostar from Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, etc., you can book your tours in advance.

• Click here to find out more about day trips from Dubrovnik.
• To find out more about a day tour from Sarajevo to Mostar,  click here and check out prices and more info.

How to Get Around Mostar

  You will not need a car or public transportation while visiting Mostar in one day. Just make sure to wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone streets – just saying).

If you plan to visit a few attractions near Mostar, you can use the bus or drive.

Where to Stay in Mostar

If you stay in Mostar overnight (I totally recommend it), you will have a couple of good options.

If you come by car, your options might be limited, though (especially if you visit with a dog, as I did, I had only a few options).

• Villa Park : I stayed at this hotel. It offered free parking and was about 1km from the main attraction (Stari Most). I was happy with my choice as the rates here are quite good and the staff was lovely.  Click here to check out the rates for Villa Park.
• Hotel Mepas: This hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in the city. It is quite close to the main attractions and perfect for those who want to indulge in luxury. Click here to find out more about the hotel and the rates.
• Hostel Majdas: This family-run hostel has been rated very well amongst backpackers – affordable, friendly and centrally located. Check out rates here.

Best Time to Visit Mostar

Mostar is extremely popular, even though temperatures rise to 43 degrees Celsius and it gets busy – busier than normal. If you can, avoid July and August for your visit.

I reckon that May and the beginning of June are good months to visit, or late in September and October. I was lucky with the weather in April, but it rained for a few days straight after my visit.

More Things to Know Before Visiting

• The currency is Bosnian Convertible Marks (KM) , but you can mostly pay in Euros, too. However, bring enough cash because credit cards are hardly accepted.
• Bring your refillable water bottle – there are water fountains (especially around mosques), and you can drink the water without a problem.
• Many people speak good English (and many even speak German), so you will have no communication problems if you speak English.
• Mostar is quite affordable. Bosnia-Herzegovina is one of the cheapest countries to travel to in Europe, so Mostar is really affordable for most of us (especially if you come from Dubrovnik on a day trip).
• Turkey heavily influences the food, but they did not bring over many of the vegetarian dishes, so it is mostly meat-heavy food (if you are vegetarian/vegan, this might be a little challenging, but it is not impossible to eat good food in Mostar, even if you don’t eat animals).  There is also quite a lot of Italian food, like pasta and pizza.  
• The city is a great place to visit – safe, fun, and interesting . As a solo female traveler (with a little dog), I felt safe at all times, day or evening, and overall, Bosnia-Herzegovina is a safe country to travel to.
• People love smoking – cigarettes and shisha (or hookah). Yep, you cannot help getting the smoke in your face.

CONCLUSION: WHAT TO SEE IN MOSTAR

While hardly known in the Western world, Mostar is quite busy as tourist buses bring many travelers. Some streets and restaurants get busy within seconds.

They are mostly Turkish visitors who appreciate the beauty of this country/city. I have heard the voices of German and French people, too. I can see it becoming even more crowded and well-known with the increasing popularity of Bosnia-Herzegovina as a travel destination.

Hopefully, this post has helped you discover a bit more about the best things to do in Mostar in one day or 2 days. Whether you visit as a day trip from Dubrovnik, Split, Sarajevo, or if you decide to stay a bit longer to experience the beautiful places  nearby  – it surely is worth a visit.

Whenever I think back of Mostar – and Bosnia-Herzegovina in general – I have a big smile on my face because of its beauty and its people!

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9 Memorable Things to Do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Beautiful and scarred: those are two words that repeatedly come to mind when exploring the best things to do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mostar struck us in a different way than many other locations that have experienced violence: the scars are simply so prominent.

My theory is that this is because the city still looks so damaged, and also because of the closeness in time. 1994 doesn’t feel like a distant, far away date.

Mostar was devastated during the war following the breakup of Yugoslavia.

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The phrase “it looked like a war zone” gets tossed around a lot, but it was utterly jarring to see videos of streets that looked like they were from an apocalyptic movie, while knowing that those same Old Town streets (rebuilt, bustling) were just outside the door.

Understanding this destruction–of both the parts of the city that have been rebuilt to look storybook perfect again and those spots that have been left to deteriorate–is so necessary to understanding Mostar.

Both the beauty and the brokenness are important. Both need to be seen. Both deserve attention when visiting Mostar.

Table of Contents

Planning a day trip to Mostar?

The best things to do in mostar, getting around mostar, bosnia and herzegovina.

While we personally loved spending a few nights in Mostar, we understand that not everyone has the time for that!

If you’re planning a larger trip to the Balkans and hope to visit Mostar on a day trip from Dubrovnik or Sarajevo , we highly recommend booking a tour.

That way, you’ll be able to see more, make better use of your time, and–in the case of a Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip –avoid the hassle of dealing with two border crossings in one day yourself.

These two popular, well-reviewed tours are perfect for making the most of one day in Mostar!

Mostar Day Trip From Dubrovnik

Book your day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik!

Mostar Day Trip From Sarajevo

Book your day trip to Mostar from Sarajevo!

Stroll across Stari Most.

Somewhat incongruously for such a historic place, the most famous site in Mostar is technically less than 20 years old!

T he original 1566 bridge was destroyed in 1993, and the “area of the Old Bridge” is considered to be the UNESCO World Heritage Site, rather than the structure itself.

The bridge is beautiful, as is the Neretva River below it, and admiring views of the bridge from all angles is one of the most popular things to do in Mostar for very good reason.

… and watch the divers from the bridge.

If you hang out on Stari Most long enough, you may be able to see one of the divers jump off of the 24m crest of the bridge into the cold river below (once they collect enough money from the surrounding tourists, of course).

It’s an incredibly impressive sight, and well worth hanging around for a while to see if you get a show.

While you can see the divers from below Stari Most as well, we found it particularly interesting to watch from the top of the bridge, as the height helps you internalize just how impressive of a leap it is!

Visit the War Photo Exhibition.

Directly next to Stari Most, you’ll find a bookshop that, for a small fee, will show you the photos and videos of newsreels from the destruction of the bridge during the war.

They have a large sign and are hard to miss, and I definitely recommend taking the time to watch the videos while visiting the Old Bridge, as they capture so much about the recent struggles of the city.

There’s something particularly unforgettable about learning about Stari Most’s heartbreaking history and its symbolism in Mostar while standing directly next to the rebuilt bridge.

Climb to the top of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.

Built in the early 17th century, Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is one of the most popular places to visit in Mostar for two reasons: its long history in the city, and–most famously–the stunning view of Stari Most from the top of its minaret.

If you’ve seen photos of Mostar, most likely you’ve seen this mosque (which is the second biggest mosque in Mostar), as its riverside location means that it is featured in many of the most iconic views of the city.

Tourists are welcome (outside of times of prayer) to tour the mosque and climb the minaret.

Be prepared for some tight spaces in the spiral staircase on the way up, but it’s well worth the climb.

Cross Lučki Most.

This bridge may not be nearly as iconic as Stari Most, but it is very close by and features beautiful views of the more famous bridge, and is well worth adding to your list when deciding what to do in Mostar.

Sample Bosnian coffee at a riverside cafe.

Bosnian coffee is famous for its strength and thickness, and is definitely worth trying at least once when visiting Mostar!

There’s no better way to try it, either, than at one of the many riverside cafes.

Soaking up views of the Neretva River is one of those things to do in Mostar that just doesn’t get old!

Check out the Bruce Lee statue.

To add a note of levity to this list of Mostar attractions, consider paying a visit to Bruce Lee!

This statue is so eclectic that I can’t help but encourage other people to add it to their list of things to do in Mostar, though it’s far enough away from Stari Most that it probably doesn’t make sense if you’re hoping to experience Mostar in a day.

Sitting in Mostar’s Zrinjski Park is a life-size statue of Bruce Lee, nunchucks and all.

According to our Airbnb host, this piece was commissioned by the political elites in Mostar after the war, theoretically as a gesture of solidarity between the Bosniak and Croat parts of the city (“everyone loves Bruce Lee!”), but really as a way to launder public money and line their own pockets.

It was completed by Croatian artist Ivan Fijolić (our Airbnb host: “Because we don’t have artists in Bosnia and Herzegovina, right?”), quickly vandalized and then removed to Zagreb while tempers cooled before eventually returning to Mostar after several years.

A Google search doesn’t turn up much detailed information, though it does appear that the youth group Urban Movement Mostar was involved in spearheading the project.

Regardless of how it came about, the site of a bronze, life-size Bruce Lee hanging out in a European park is not one to miss.

Meander through the Old Bazaar.

Touristy and picturesque, the Old Bazaar (in Bosnian, Kujundžiluk) belongs on your list of things to see in Mostar whether you want to shop for souvenirs or simply enjoy wandering through the cobblestone lanes that make up one of the oldest parts of the city.

The bazaar is fairly small, so it is easy to squeeze into a one day trip to Mostar.

Stroll through Old Town.

Despite the heaviness of–or perhaps partially because of–Mostar’s dark history, its Old Town shines with beauty.

Restaurants, souvenir shops, cafes, and excellent views of the Neretva River and Stari Most feel like they’re around every corner, and wandering aimlessly through Old Town deserves to be featured on any Mostar itinerary, even if you only have one day in Mostar to work with.

The Neretva River, the not-so-Old Bridge, the stone turrets, the cobblestones: much of the Old Town looks like a fairy tale.

Of course, for proper perspective, it’s impossible to enjoy these things to do in Mostar (and its competitively priced gelato–1/2 a Euro a scoop!) without remembering and reflecting on its recent damage.

The message, all over Mostar, is clear: don’t forget.

Mostar is a very small, walkable city.

Pick a place to stay that is within a reasonable walking distance of Old Town, and you’ll be within walking distance of the major things to do in Mostar both inside and outside the Old Town.

We didn’t use public transportation once while we were here.

If you’d like to explore the nature surrounding the city–like the stunning Kravice Falls , for example–there are plenty of Mostar day trips you can take either independently or with an affordable group tour.

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About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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How To Plan a Split to Mostar Day Trip

Last Updated on January 8, 2024

by Michael Rozenblit

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If you’re embarking on a short trip through the Balkans , you might not have enough time to explore Bosnia thoroughly. And while we wholeheartedly recommend travellers see more of a country than just one city, undertaking a Split to Mostar day trip gives you an opportunity to get a small taste of Bosnia & Herzegovina if you’re spending the majority of your time exploring Croatia and driving down the Dalmatian Coast.

Mostar is a relatively small city meaning that travellers can see most of the highlights within one day. However, if time allows, spending one or two nights in Mostar will allow you to get a deeper understanding of the complicated history of the city as well as see some more of the nearby attractions.

So if you’re considering taking a day trip to Mostar from Split, here’s everything you need to know about how to get there and what to see to make the most of your short time in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Table of Contents

How to Get from Split to Mostar

There are three main transport options for getting from Split to Mostar on a day trip. These are bus, driving or an organised tour. There are currently no trains operating from Split to Mostar.

If your goal is to reduce your Balkans travel cost as much as possible then it is theoretically possible to take a bus from Split to Mostar.

However, you need to be prepared to spend the majority of your day on the bus as border crossings can take time and it makes it more or less impossible to visit any attractions outside of Mostar.

In the best-case scenario, the bus will take 4 hours one way, though our journey ended up being closer to 5 hours as we got delayed at the border.

If you want to take the bus to get from Split to Mostar then I suggest spending a night or two in Mostar rather than doing a day trip. If you’re insistent on only visiting Mostar for a day then I suggest taking one of the two options listed below instead.

The best way to do a Split to Mostar day trip independently is by renting a car and driving. This will allow you to enjoy some of the stops on the route, get across the border quicker and have the flexibility to go and leave when you want.

We suggest using Rentalcars.Com to find deals on car hire in Split or Croatia in general. They aggregate results across major car hire brands.

Make sure to pay close attention to your policy when booking to ensure that the company allows you to take the car across borders. You’ll also need a green card when crossing into Bosnia to prove that you have the appropriate insurance coverage — the car rental company should provide this for you.

By Day Tour

If you prefer not to drive, then taking a Split to Mostar day tour with a guide is a great option. This allows you to leave Split early in the morning without worrying about driving and make maximum use of your time in Mostar.

This guided tour or this guided tour is a great choice as it gives you some free time to explore Mostar independently, as well as a guided tour of the town and stops in Počitelj & Kravice National Park.

If you want to combine your Mostar day trip with a stop in the Christian pilgrimage site of Medjugorje, then this day tour or this day tour follows a similar itinerary to the above tour but gives visitors the option to visit Medjugorje instead of Kravice National Park.

There is also this guided tour available which dedicates more time in Medjugorje rather than visiting Počitelj & Kravice National Park. It is also possible to go on a private tour that picks you up in Split and drops you off in Dubrovnik.

If you’re planning to go on a guided tour from Split to Mostar, keep in mind that a lot of tours don’t run in the winter months.

Mostar Day Trip Itinerary

If you’re planning to do your Mostar day trip from Split independently, then this suggested itinerary should help you make the most of your time exploring Mostar.

Visit Počitelj

After leaving Split early in the morning and crossing the border from Croatia to Bosnia & Herzegovina, it’s worth stopping in the town of Počitelj.

Built in the 14th century, the walled town combines medieval and Ottoman influences and has historically been an important strategic site. It’s also currently on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.

It’s worth making a quick stop here on the way to Mostar to walk around the town and see the unique architecture here. Take the time to climb up the steep stairs to the fortress to enjoy great views of the Neretva River and the surrounding area.

Enjoy a Bosnian Coffee

You might be tired after an early morning start from Split so after driving from Počitelj to Mostar, make your first stop in town be for a traditional Bosnian coffee.

While you can get a Bosnian coffee from a lot of places in Mostar, I suggest heading to Cafe de Alma which is located near the Hamman Museum and not far from the Stari Most.

The cafe here roasts and grinds its own beans and the owner will take the time to sit with you and explain exactly how to drink a Bosnian coffee and what makes it unique from other similar varieties of coffee. There is an extreme passion for coffee here, so if you only have time for one Bosnian coffee during your visit to Mostar, make sure that it’s here!

Explore the Old Town

Mostar’s Old Town is fairly compact so a day will give you enough time to enjoy the highlights of the city.

Your first stop should undoubtedly be the Stari Most – Mostar’s iconic bridge. While it was completely destroyed during the Balkans wars in the 90s, it has since been rebuilt in its original form.

One of the most iconic sites here is to see the local divers ply their craft and jump into the Neretva river. The local divers will spend a lot of the day pretending as if they’re about to jump to collect some money to support their diving club.

However, if you’re lucky, some dives occur a few times per day – we saw one at noon but aren’t sure if the timings are consistent.

If you’re interested in taking the approximately 22-metre plunge yourself, you can visit the diving club located on the bridge and they will put you through your paces to see whether it is safe for you to do so.

Aside from the Stari Most, it’s worth taking the time to explore other areas of the Old Town such as the Crooked Bridge which is a small version of the Old Bridge and used as practice for diving from the Stari Most. There are also some bazaars in the Old Town on both sides of the bridge where you can pick up souvenirs.

If you want to enjoy great views of the city, there are a few different options including climbing the minaret of the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, visiting the Stari Most Museum, walking over to the Lucki Most which is the next bridge over from Stari Most or enjoying a drink at Caffe Terasa.

Finally, it’s worth taking the time to learn more about the tragic history of Mostar and Bosnia in general during the 90s, particularly if you’re not planning on visiting Sarajevo. Some options include visiting the War Photo Museum or the Museum Of War And Genocide Victims.

If you want to take the time to learn more about Mostar’s history with a knowledgeable guide, then I highly recommend travellers go on a walking tour with Sheva.

Sheva does an incredible job of showing visitors around Mostar, taking time to explore the Old Town as well as break down the complicated history of the Balkans war and the impact it still has on residents living in Mostar today.

Sheva runs free walking tours a couple of times per day during peak season though the timing of the tours might not be convenient if visiting for a day. You can, however, contact him to organise a private tour that will likely be more suitable if you’re only visiting Mostar for a day.

Taste traditional Bosnian food

All that exploring will undoubtedly leave you hungry, so make sure you leave time to enjoy some traditional Bosnian cuisine while on your Mostar day trip from Split.

One good option for lunch is a restaurant called Food House which is located a short walk from the Stari Most.

They serve both traditional Bosnian food as well as international food with vegetarian and vegan options available. They have a Sultan’s Feast menu option which can be ordered for one or several people and allows you to sample several traditional Bosnian dishes.

Another good restaurant option for traditional Bosnian food is Hindin Han which has a lovely terrace to enjoy your meal and serves authentic Bosnian dishes.

Swim in Kravice Waterfall

After departing Mostar but before crossing the border back into Croatia, it’s worth taking the time to stop at Kravice Waterfall and enjoy a swim in the waterfalls if the weather allows it!

Kravice Waterfall is a smaller version of the waterfalls you’ll find in Krka National Park in Croatia (which is another great day trip from Split! ) and is a refreshing way to end your day in Mostar particularly in the summer months when temperatures are higher.

The waterfall is open until 10 pm in the summer months with entrance costing 20KM (approximately €10).

Have more time?

If you’re not rushed for time, then I definitely recommend spending at least one or two nights in Mostar to be able to enjoy the town fully and spread your tourist dollars more. Also, crowds thin out in the evening as day-trippers leave and it’s a lot more pleasant to walk around in the evening and enjoy Mostar’s atmosphere.

This will also allow you to take one of Sheva’s free walking tours (though make sure to tip at the end!) rather than organising a private tour as well as giving you more time to visit museums that you don’t get a chance to see on a day trip.

There are also some great places to visit in the evening in Mostar such as the Craft Beer Garden imaimože which has an excellent range of craft beers from their own brewery in Mostar as well as other breweries in Bosnia.

You also have the option of visiting Blagaj which is a small village near Mostar famous for its 600-year-old monastery.

Where to Stay in Mostar

Hostel Majdas   – This is a great hostel to stay in Mostar for backpackers looking to meet other travellers and enjoy some great Bosnian hospitality. The daily breakfast is one of the best you’ll ever have in a hostel and Majda’s brother, Bata, runs a fantastic day tour to Mostar’s nearby attractions as well as explaining the complicated history of the city. 

Hotel Eden – If you prefer to stay in a hotel, this place is a great option located in the centre of the city. They offer a range of clean modern private rooms with breakfast included daily as well as access to a pool, sauna and fitness centre.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Mostar!

Visiting Mostar as a day trip from Split is a great option if you’re short on time and want to get an introduction to Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Are you planning a trip from Split to Mostar? Have you been recently? Let us know in the comments below!

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About Michael Rozenblit

Michael is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Both solo and with his partner, Maggie, he has travelled to over 50 countries across the globe and has a particular affinity for the Balkans and Eastern Europe. He’s lived in numerous countries worldwide but currently resides in his hometown of Melbourne, Australia. Read more about Michael

Help please . Taking a day trip from Split to Mostar but wondering how to manage with the different currencies please. Do they take Euro or Kuna or cards. All info appreciated

In Bosnia, the currency is the Bosnian mark (BAM). Some shops might take Euro or Kuna in Mostar but it will typically be at an unfavorable exchange rate.

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• Best Time to Visit Mostar
• How To Reach Mostar
• Restaurants in Mostar
• Things To Do in Mostar
• Mostar Itineraries
• Mostar Tours
• Mostar Hotels

Exclusive Mostar Travel Guide, Bosnia & Herzegovina

• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Federation Of Bosnia And Herzegovina

Mostar Tourism

While we agree that Mostar might not be the first place that comes to your mind when sorting through the destinations for your next long awaited travel trip, it isdefinitely a place you must visit at least once in your lifetime. Why, you may ask? Well, simply because the place is an absolute wonder. It is an old historic city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated over the beautiful Neretva river and speaks of the long journey it has spanned through the dynamic days of Ottoman rising, Bosnian War and courageous re-establishment. A cultural hub created by numerous ethnicities coming together, it is most famous for its beautiful historic Ottoman-style bridge ‘Stari Most’ that is now considered to the most important landmarks and an exemplary form of Islamic architecture in the country. The liveliness and spark that the city radiates coupled with years long history makes it’s a perfect place for tourist to see the different phases of mankind and witness the true meaning of perseverance and strength that can be seen among the vivacious masses of Mostar.

The city came into existence during 15 and 16 centuries as Ottoman Frontier town. There is an interesting story behind the city being called Mostar. It is said that Mostar got its name from ‘Mustari’, the bridge keepers responsible for guarding The Old Bridge in the medieval times. The history of Mostar that is often spoken about is a daring journey marked with determination and grit. Among all the other Bosnian cities, Mostar was the one that wasmost heavily bombed and woundedduring the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Many buildings were destroyed in the war including Mostar’s pride and spiritual icon- Stari Most, The Old Bridge. The bridge was later rebuilt by the combined efforts of the international community and government in 2004 after 11 years of its destruction. Though the sign of the troubled past is still visible in the architecture and buildings of this war-torn city, a traveler must not feel surprised after seeing the zest and charm that the place and its people possess. After all, it is a city that has built itself from debris.

Mostar is an example of quintessential Ottoman culture which is visible in its architecture and historic buildings. That, along with countless number of traditional restaurants, market stalls, mosques make it one of the most visited destinations in Bosnia. A traveler visiting the Mostar will find himself stunned by the outstanding beauty it is surrounded with. Mostar has been home to numerous poets and scholars that has influenced it thoroughly. The Coppersmith’s bazaar of Mostar today is one of the most frequented tourist attractions among others. Take time out of your schedule to add this place to your bucket list and relish everything that the place has to offer considering the best time to visit.

Essential travel information and Mostar tips for your visit

General Info:

• Time zone: UTC 01:00
• Electricity and Internet: Internet and electricity are available in the city. The voltage for Mostar is 220-240 volt. For non-frequent internet users, various internet booths are also available which they can use during their trip.
• Languages: Croatian, Bosnian, and Serbian.
• 112: General Emergency
• 122: Police
• 121: Civil Protection
• 124: Ambulance
• 123: Fire Department

Tourist Traps:

• While travelling the city with car, ensure that it has been parked safely. It is hard to find a decent parking in the city and car being broken into is nothing uncommon.
• While shopping through bazaars make sure you have checking every shop before buying something so that you don’t feel cheated. Often the prices in shops vary significantly.
• While hailing taxis, it is advised to be careful. Taxi drivers are known to charge more as tourists are often ignorant of the places. A little homework might help.

Tipping:  

• Tourists can park their car in the square where there are attendants who keep an eye on it for a very small price.

Mostar Trip Planner

Plan your customized day by day trip plan for Mostar. Choose from various experinces categories as adventure, romantic and family and kids friendly for your trip using using Mostar trip planner.

• THINGS TO DO
• BEST TIME TO VISIT
• HOW TO REACH
• TOP RESTAURANTS
• EVENTS AND FESTIVALS

The best tours and activities in the city, guided by experts to give you a local insight to the best of Mostar

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Boutique Travel Guides & All-Female Luxury Tours

Ultimate Day Trip Tour To Mostar From Sarajevo 2024

In July I took one of the BEST day trip tours to Mostar from Sarajevo ! I was traveling all by myself in Sarajevo and was looking for the best way to see Mostar for the day.

Luckily I found the tour company, Meet Bosnia Travel , which was highly rated, and AFFORDABLE! I had such a great time, that I wanted to share the ultimate day trip tour to Mostar from Sarajevo!

If you are also a solo female traveler and worried about safety this is one of the best day trips! Since you will be in a small group, it swashed any of my concerns about unsafe situations.

Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.

Best Day Tour To Mostar From Sarajevo

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Book this tour with over 250 FIVE STAR REVIEWS!

You don’t have to be traveling alone to enjoy this tour. I was solo, so I figured I would mention it in case you are traveling on your own too.

I had the perfect visit, and I want you to experience the magic of Bosnia & Herzegovina just as I did!

This tour really hits all the best places in Bosnia & Herzegovina!

Why This Tour?

• This tour has free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to departure
• It is convenient for anyone staying in Sarajevo
• The value for the cost is exceptional
• It is highly reviewed with over 250 five-star reviews

Highlights of Mostar Day Trip

If you are dreaming of visiting the Kravice Waterfalls, Mostar, Konjic, Pocitelj, and Blagaj , this tour is your best option!

I really enjoy how easy it was to see all the top tourist attractions and highlights of Bosnia & Herzegovina in just one day!

Your guided tour is a full day, with a duration of around 10 to 11 hours, starting from the capital of Bosnia, Sarajevo.

The tour starts out by meeting at 8:00 am at the Meet Bosnia Travel Agency where you will meet your expert tour guide. Then it’s off for a 30-minute stop at the Konjic Bridge.

🎟️ TICKETS: Grab Tickets To This Tour!

Stop 1: Konjic Bridge

Your first stop of the day is Konjic Bridge, the old stone bridge from the Turkish period that has connected the banks of the Neretva River since 1682!

After a 30-minute quick visit to Konjic Bridge, it’s then off to Kravice Falls!

Stop 2: Kravice Waterfalls

If you love nature as much as I do, you will really love the second stop on this ultimate day trip tour to Mostar from Sarajevo!

Kravice waterfalls are located in the Trebizat River and have some of the most stunning waterfalls I’ve ever seen.

Surrounded by the lush green riverside forest the river’s crystal clear water is perfect for swimming. You will enjoy an hour at the beautiful waterfalls and can go swimming if you are feeling inclined to do so.

I had a swim and it was one of the best things I did on this tour!

Stop 3: Urban Site of Pocitelj

The fortified town of Pocitelj dates back to the 14th century. It is like an open-air museum of famous landmarks and Ottoman-style architecture.

You will explore this great place for around 20 minutes before heading to the next stop.

Stop 4: Blagaj Tekija

Blagaj Tekija (Blagaj Tekke) is one of those places you need to see to believe. I feel my pictures don’t do it justice!

Sitting at the mouth of the Buna River is the Dervish Monastery. Nestled in the lush countryside of Herzegovina, this monastery offers visitors some of the most stunning views.

Blagaj Tekija is offered referred to as “the pearl of Herzegovina”, and see this Dervish House for yourself, you will see why.

This is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, and I don’t think I would have visited without this day trip tour to Mostar from Sarajevo.

Stop 5: Sniper Tower (Pass By)

You will pass by the Sniper Tower just outside Mostar. It is a stark reminder of Bosnia’s bloody civil war in the 1990s. Located high atop a hill overlooking the city, it was used by Serb snipers as a vantage point to target Bosnian civilians during the conflict.

The tower itself stands as a testament to the brutality of Bosnia’s ethnic cleansing campaign and the horror of war. Also, an important reminder of Bosnia’s history serving as a powerful symbol of resilience in the face of adversity.

Today, it has become a popular tourist destination for those looking to pay their respects and gain insight into Bosnia’s past. 

Stop 6: Stari Most (Old Bridge) & The Old Town Tour

One of the highlights of the tour for me was finally arriving at Stari Most, the famous old bridge with the Game of Thrones vibes. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2004.

The 16th-century Ottoman bridge stands as a symbol of international peace. The bridge was destroyed during the Bosnian War in 1993 but was rebuilt between 2001-2004 with the help of UNESCO and local citizens.

The sturdy arch of the Stari Most is a testament to Bosnia’s resilience and the power of international cooperation. The bridge has become a symbol of reconciliation, with visitors from all over the world coming to witness its beauty.

It is also home to an annual diving competition, where divers compete in traditional costumes while leaping from the edge of the bridge into the Neretva River below. Crossing the bridge you will enjoy beautiful views of Mostar’s old town.

There are some interesting facts about Stari Most that many people don’t know.

• The famous bridge doesn’t have a foundation.
• The designed of the bridge was a student of Mimar Sinan, the most skilled architect of the Ottoman Empire
• The bridge has entirely been reconstructed due to the destruction of the Bosnian war in 1993
• Jumping off the bridge is not just a daredevil game, but a competitive sport
• It’s a bridge with no foundation, one of the most uniquely designed in the world.

Stop 7: Koski-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque

With your local tour guide, you will make a short visit and have some free time to explore this imperial Mosque built around 1618. It was nearly fully reconstructed after the Bosnia war but stands today in all its glory.

This 16th-century Mosque is one of the top attractions in Mostar and the most monumental Mosque in the region.

Here also lies the famous fountain of Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.

You will pass by the first Hamam built during the Ottoman Empire and the Crooked Bridge which is a small bridge version of the famous Stari Most.

Stop 8: Old Bazar Kujundziluk

Finish the tour at the old bazaar. It is the perfect spot to check out souvenir shops and buy local products. You can also use this free time to get more pictures of the old bridge area.

Alternative Day Tours From Sarajevo

If you are looking for any alternative day trips from Sarajevo to Mostar, there are a lot of options with five-star reviews!

• Mostar and Herzegovina 4 Cities – Full Day Tour from Sarajevo
• One way from Sarajevo to Belgrade full-day tour
• Fall of Yugoslavia, Sarajevo War Tour with Tunnel of Hope Museum and Frontlines

Is Mostar Worth Visiting?

Yes, Mostar is absolutely worth visiting, and a real hidden gem in Eastern Europe ! The city of Mostar is beautiful and filled with so many historical sites and cultural attractions! Wait till you see the famous old bridge that looks like something out of Game of Thrones.

You will find delicious cuisine from the best local restaurants and stunning architecture that gives the city of Mostar its unique character.

Mostar is a small town though, so you don’t need more than a couple of days proper. With its close proximity to Sarajevo, it is the perfect day trip.

Although you could take a bus there by yourself, I encourage you to take a day tour! A tour is one of the best ways to experience a place like Mostar and all its history.

🚗 Renting a car on this trip ? Get the best prices with Discover Cars!

The Distance From Sarajevo to Mostar

The distance between these two cities is only about 80 km, so it doesn’t take more than an hour and a half driving, in most cases.

If you do rent a car, you will need to be an excellent driver to navigate the roads to Mostar. They can be a bit challenging if you aren’t strong behind the wheel.

With a short distance from Sarajevo to Mostar it makes for the perfect place to make a day trip.

If you aren’t renting a car , joining a tour to visit Mostar is also the most efficient. Taking the train or bus to Mostar is on average, a 3-hour journey each way. Public transit is doable, just less ideal.

There is a bus station just a little outside Sarajevo city center that you can take to Mostar. For the Mostar train, get the timetable here . Keep in my that English isn’t widely spoken, so it’s another reason visiting via tour is the best choice!

The best way to see Mostar from Sarajevo is a day tour from Meet Bosnia Travel .

Final Thoughts on my day trip tour to Mostar from Sarajevo

This day trip was the best money I spent on my vacation to the Balkans! Even if you are someone who likes to go at their own pace I would still urge you to consider doing a day trip.

You will see so much and learn so much in this full-day tour you can’t compare it to being out there on your own.

I also recommend doing a walking tour of the historic part of Sarajevo. Getting a tour of the city from a local guide really can enhance your experience.

I opted to explore the historical museums on my own. But when it comes to learning about the Srebrenica massacre and Srebrenica genocide I’d rather have an official Sarajevo tour.

Bosnia & Herzegovina has so much to offer, I am really glad I joined this tour!

Read Next: Are the Balkans Safe for Solo Females?

Melissa Byron, a seasoned solo traveler since 2009, is the founder & visionary behind A Solo Woman Traveling. Drawing from her extensive personal experience globetrotting solo to over 40 countries, she has dedicated herself to a mission: crafting invaluable guides and itineraries for women who embark on solo adventures.

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From Sarajevo to Mostar: A Day Trip Adventure You Won’t Forget!

Welcome to the ultimate guide on day trips from Sarajevo to Mostar! If you find yourself in the charming capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you simply cannot miss the opportunity to visit the historic city of Mostar. Packed with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a world-famous bridge, Mostar is a true gem waiting to be explored. So, grab your camera, put on your adventure hat, and let’s embark on a delightful journey from Sarajevo to Mostar!

A Quick Snapshot of Mostar

Before we dive into the details, let’s take a quick snapshot of what Mostar has to offer. This beautiful city is located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is known for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). Mostar is a melting pot of cultures, with a mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences that blend together seamlessly. Prepare to be captivated by the cobblestone streets, vibrant bazaars, and the warm hospitality of the locals.

Getting There: Sarajevo to Mostar

Now, let’s talk logistics. The distance between Sarajevo and Mostar is approximately 75 miles (120 kilometers), which makes it perfect for a day trip. You have a few options when it comes to transportation:

• By Car : Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The journey takes around two hours, and the road winds through picturesque landscapes, making the drive itself a delightful experience.
• By Train: If you prefer a more leisurely journey, hop on a train from Sarajevo to Mostar. The train ride takes around two and a half hours, offering scenic views of the Bosnian countryside along the way. Keep in mind that train schedules may vary, so it’s best to check in advance.
• By Bus : Another convenient option is taking a bus. Buses from Sarajevo to Mostar run frequently throughout the day, and the journey takes around two and a half hours. Plus, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the views without worrying about navigating the roads.

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Exploring Mostar’s Old Town

Once you arrive in Mostar, get ready to be transported back in time as you explore the enchanting Old Town. The Old Town, also known as the Stari Grad, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart and soul of Mostar. Here, you’ll find narrow streets lined with traditional Ottoman-style houses, cozy cafes, and vibrant shops selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious local treats.

Don’t forget to visit the Old Bridge (Stari Most), the iconic symbol of Mostar. This magnificent stone bridge, originally built in the 16th century, spans the Neretva River and offers breathtaking views of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even watch or participate in the traditional bridge jumping, where daredevils leap off the bridge into the river below. Talk about making a splash!

Delightful Detours: Blagaj and Pocitelj

While Mostar alone is worth the trip, why not make the most of your day and explore some nearby hidden gems? Just a short drive from Mostar, you’ll find Blagaj and Pocitelj, two charming towns that will add an extra dose of magic to your day trip.

Blagaj is home to the mesmerizing Blagaj Tekke, a 600-year-old Dervish monastery situated at the base of a cliff next to a crystal-clear river. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and significance of this spiritual place, and don’t forget to savor a cup of traditional Bosnian coffee at one of the local riverside cafes.

Pocitelj, on the other hand, is a well-preserved medieval town that will transport you back in time. Walk along its ancient walls, climb the medieval tower for panoramic views, and explore the stone houses and cobblestone streets. This hidden gem is a photographer’s dream, so be sure to have your camera ready!

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A Feast for Your Taste Buds

After a day full of exploration, it’s time to treat your taste buds to some local delicacies. Mostar is known for its delicious cuisine, influenced by a mix of Ottoman and Mediterranean flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to try cevapi, a traditional Bosnian dish consisting of grilled minced meat served with pita bread and onions. It’s a heavenly combination that will leave you craving more!

For those with a sweet tooth, indulge in baklava, a sweet pastry made of layers of filo dough filled with chopped nuts and soaked in honey syrup. Wash it down with a cup of strong Bosnian coffee, and you’ll be ready to take on the world!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Is it possible to do a day trip from Sarajevo to Mostar in the winter?

A1: Absolutely! While the winter months bring colder temperatures, Mostar’s charm remains intact. Just make sure to dress warmly and check the weather conditions before your trip. The Old Town, with its cozy cafes and stunning architecture, is particularly enchanting during the winter season.

Q2: Are there any guided tours available from Sarajevo to Mostar?

A2: Yes, there are several guided tour options available if you prefer to have a knowledgeable local guide you through the highlights of Mostar. Look for tours that include transportation, as they often provide interesting insights and take care of all the logistics, allowing you to relax and enjoy the experience.

Q3: Can I visit Mostar on a budget?

A3: Absolutely! Mostar is a budget-friendly destination, offering a range of affordable accommodations, dining options, and transportation. You can explore the Old Town on foot, visit the public markets for inexpensive souvenirs, and enjoy a delicious local meal without breaking the bank. It’s the perfect destination for travelers on a budget.

A day trip from Sarajevo to Mostar is an unforgettable adventure that takes you through centuries of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the iconic Stari Most to the charming Old Town and the nearby hidden gems of Blagaj and Pocitelj, this journey is filled with surprises at every turn. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime!

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Planning a road trip? Stop at one of these 18 uniquely Arizona roadside attractions

While the nearest rest stop or fast-food chain restaurant may be the most convenient place for tired travelers searching for a reprieve from the open road, it would be remiss of road trippers to ignore the unusual roadside attractions scattered along the Arizona highways.

If life-sized cartoon characters near the Grand Canyon or exotic animals on the way to Tucson sound like better pit stops than the local gas station, you're in luck when driving in Arizona.

Here are some of the most notable Arizona roadside attractions you can check out the next time you cross the Grand Canyon state.

Bedrock City at Raptor Ranch

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Four Corners Monument Navajo Tribal Park

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Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch

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Standin' on the Corner Park

You don't have to be an Eagles groupie to be familiar with the nod to this Arizona town in one of their most popular songs, "Take it Easy." "Standin' on the corner in Winslow, Arizona ..." is a line memorialized by Winslow residents at Standin' on the Corner Park. A bronze statue of a young musician is a salute to the troubadours who put Winslow on the classic rock map.

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Without spoiling the enigma that can be uncovered in Benson, The Thing is a worthy roadside attraction to consider as you head down the I-10. The various billboards that line the highway are hard to miss as you get closer to the "Mystery of the Desert." Located next to a Dairy Queen and a Shell gas station, you can take care of your hunger, gas tank and curiosity at the same time.

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Arizona's 'world's largest' roadside wonders

According to a map created by  blog.batchgeo.com , more than 195 roadside attractions in the U.S. consider themselves the “world’s largest” something. These are Arizona's "world's largest" wonders and where they are located.

• World's Largest Cow Skull, Amado.
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Giganticus Headicus

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Lumberjack muffler man

A familiar face to Northern Arizona University students, the 25-foot-tall muffler man resembles the school's mascot, Louie the Lumberjack. Before being moved outside of the Skydome, the lumberjack was located outside the Lumberjack Cafe and appeared in the background of the 1969 movie "Easy Rider."

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Rainbow Rock Shop Dinosaurs

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Details: 101 Navajo Blvd., Holbrook.

Located near the Mexico border, Dateland is a necessary stop on Interstate 8. A major producer of the Medjool dates, the dry heat provides the perfect climate for cultivating the fruit. Dates are fiber-rich, sweet as candy and contain more potassium than a banana. Try Dateland's world-famous date shake when you visit.

Details: 1737 Ave. 64 E., Dateland. 928-454-2772. www.dateland.com .

London Bridge

You don't need to travel across the world to experience a little European history. As a result of a strange series of events, the London Bridge , which once crossed the River Thames, was broken down and rebuilt in Lake Havasu City by Robert P. McCulloch. This British import attracts tens of thousands of travelers every year.

Details: 1340 McCulloch Blvd. N., Lake Havasu City. 928-453-3444. www.golakehavasu.com .

Take a break from speeding down the highway by cruising through the ponderosa pine forest. An attraction you don't need to get out of your car to enjoy, Bearizona has over three miles of road surrounded by picturesque nature and North American animals. If your legs need a break from sitting in a cramped car, the park also has a 20-acre walk-through area.

Details: 1500 E Route 66, Williams. 928-635-2289. www.bearizona.com .

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More From Forbes

Try these 5 chatgpt prompts to plan your next trip.

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With the right prompts, ChatGPT can help you with your vacation planning.

Daniel Levine, a keynote speaker specializing in tourism trends , is among the many travelers who have been experimenting with ChatGPT for travel planning.

In his experience, he says, generative AI tools tend to do best when it comes to information that’s fairly static, like sightseeing: He recently asked an AI chatbot to plan a seven-day itinerary for a drive down the coast of Chile, and it produced a good starting point for an itinerary. On another trip, AI also revealed a little-known Terminal Transfer Bus that saved him time at Chicago’s O’Hare Airport.

When it comes to planning a vacation, nothing beats a custom recommendation from a fellow traveler who's already explored the area or a travel agent with deep knowledge of the locale. There’s a human touch that comes with making solid recommendations. But for those plotting out itineraries, ChatGPT can be a great starting point for trip planning—that is, if you know how to feed it the correct prompts and you’re patient enough to fact check the intel.

Fourteen percent of American travelers have reported recently using ChatGPT to plan a trip, though about a third plan to enlist the generative AI in the future, according to Longwoods International .

How Accurate Are ChatGPT’s Travel Suggestions?

ChatGPT is still in its early stages, so it's best to fact check some of its suggestions when you ... [+] use it for travel planning.

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But ChatGPT’s travel suggestions often send people to places that don’t exist, fall short of logistical planning, or suggest restaurants and attractions outside of operating hours, according to a study from SEO Travel. For the analysis, the travel site asked ChatGPT to plan 100, two-day weekend itineraries in top destinations.

Anecdotally, those who have queried ChatGPT have experienced some of those hiccups first-hand.

Alice Ford, an adventure filmmaker, travel host and stunt woman who runs the site Alice’s Adventures on Earth , experienced ChatGPT as an experiment for a YouTube video last summer. She was looking for adventurous activities in Los Angeles.

“What I found was that it did give me a few ideas I hadn’t already thought of but then when it comes to finding the real tour operators or adventure guides that was more difficult,” she says. “One of the things it suggested was a seasonal activity that would have been a 5-hour, one-way drive.”

Levine says AI chatbots have been misleading when replying to queries like “list hotels in Tokyo with 2-bedroom suites,” even offering up properties that are closed. “For trip planning it's best to think of ChatGPT as a tool rather than a travel agent, says Levine. “You have to spend time with it to massage its answers.”

5 ChatGPT Prompts To Help Plan Your Vacation

Here’s 5 customizable ChatGPT prompts to help you plan your next trip, with some parameters to help yield the most helpful results:

ChatGPT can create a table of hike suggestions and include considerations such as the distance, ... [+] duration, and elevation change.

1. Recommend a [X-point] walking tour of [X city or neighborhood] within an [x-mile radius]

You can tweak this prompt so that it builds out an itinerary around a spot you're planning to visit first.

2. Make a list of [X] expressions to help navigate [x country]

Use this as a cheat sheet to learn basic expressions in a foreign language.

3. Provide a list of the best [x type of cuisine] in [x city]

Be sure to fact check ChatGPT to verify all of the restaurants are still in business. You can also give it parameters such as “within walking distance of [x destination]

4. What are the top cultural institutions to visit in [x city]

For more niche responses, you can ask about historic cultural institutions, art institutions, etc.

5. Make a table of day hikes in [X destination} and include mileage, elevation change, and time needed.

ChatGPT can also produce tables and you can input information points you want included such as difficulty of the hike, average time it takes to complete it and more. This prompt works great for national parks.

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Boeing Starliner return delayed again for spacewalks, study of spacecraft issues

Boeing and NASA are once again "adjusting" the return home of two astronauts from the International Space Station on the Starliner spacecraft.

Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore were scheduled to stay at the ISS for just a week after docking there June 6 . Now they aren't expected to make the trip back to Earth until at least early July, following two scheduled spacewalks and continued assessments of reported issues on the spacecraft, Boeing announced in a June 21 update .

The space organizations have not announced a new return date after most recently saying the astronuats might come back Tuesday or Wednesday.

Here's what we know.

Starliner's return delayed for spacewalks, review of spacecraft issues

Moving the Starliner's undocking and landing from Wednesday deconflicts with "a series of planned (ISS) spacewalks while allowing mission teams time to review propulsion system data," the aerospace company said in the update.

The spacewalks were scheduled for Monday and July 2, NASA and Boeing said, meaning the astronauts wouldn't return until after those were complete. The spacewalk that was supposed to happen Monday was canceled following a spacesuit issue. NASA has not yet said how that will impact the planned spacewalk schedule or if it will further delay the astronauts' return.

USA TODAY contacted Boeing, who referred questions to be asked to NASA. USA TODAY contacted NASA on Monday morning but has not yet received a response.

The crew is also reviewing some issues with the Starliner spacecraft.

“We are taking our time and following our standard mission management team process,” Steve Stich, NASA’s Commercial Crew Program manager, said in the update. “We are letting the data drive our decision making relative to managing the small helium system leaks and thruster performance we observed during rendezvous and docking."

Stitch also said an "agency-level review" would be necessary due to the duration of the mission. He compared it to what was done ahead of NASA's SpaceX Demo-2 return after it spent two months in orbit.

US spacewalk 90 canceled

Although NASA and Boeing moved the Starliner's return to accommodate the spacewalks, U.S. spacewalk 90 was scrapped Monday morning due to "a water leak in the service and cooling umbilical unit on NASA astronaut Tracy C. Dyson’s spacesuit," according to NASA .

The water leak was noticed after Dyson and astronaut Mike Barratt set their suits to battery power Monday morning, NASA said.

The spacewalk was initially scheduled for June 14, but that attempt was delayed due to a "spacesuit discomfort issue."

The spacewalk is planned to "remove a faulty electronics box from a communications antenna on the starboard truss of the space station," NASA said. The astronauts also would have collected samples for analysis to " understand the ability of microorganisms to survive and reproduce on the exterior of the orbiting laboratory," according to the government agency.

Are the astronauts stuck in space?

While Wilmore and Williams' return home continues to be delayed, Boeing said plenty of supplies remain for the astronauts and the station's schedule is "relatively open through mid-August." In case of an emergency on the ISS, the Starliner is cleared to leave orbit and return to Earth, the company added.

Boeing added the crew is "not pressed for time to leave" as the astronauts continue to help with station operations as needed and are completing NASA's add-on in-flight objectives.

“The crew’s feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, and they know that every bit of learning we do on the Crew Flight Test will improve and sharpen our experience for future crews,” Mark Nappi, vice president and program manager of Boeing’s Starliner Program, said in the June 21 release.

“Starliner is performing well in orbit while docked to the space station,” Stich said. “We are strategically using the extra time to clear a path for some critical station activities while completing readiness for Butch and Suni’s return on Starliner and gaining valuable insight into the system upgrades we will want to make for post-certification missions.”

Boeing Starliner issues, including helium leaks

Helium leaks and a malfunctioning thruster valve hampered the Starliner's launch from Cape Canaveral , Florida on June 5. These same issues seem to be still affecting the spacecraft weeks later.

There's been a series of helium leaks in the Starliner's propulsion system, Stich said during a media teleconference on June 18 . So far, five leaks have been found since the Starliner has been docked at the ISS, he added.

"The path going forward is to continue to look at the helium system to try to understand what's happening, again look at simulations for the remainder of the flight… and then the operational techniques to manage the helium system," Stich said.

The defective thruster valve, which is still offline as of June 15, is another problem but Stich said the crew did not plan to use it during the return flight "out of an abundance of caution." The belief is that the valve went offline due to the extreme heat generated while the thruster system was firing "in rapid succession" to keep the Starliner on course with the space station, according to Stich.

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My First Trip to Norway, With A.I. as a Guide

Can artificial intelligence devise a bucket-list vacation that checks all the boxes: culture, nature, hotels and transportation? Our reporter put three virtual assistants to the test.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

The assignment was clear: Test how well artificial intelligence could plan a trip to Norway, a place I’d never been. So I did none of my usual obsessive online research and instead asked three A.I. planners to create a four-day itinerary. None of them, alas, mentioned the saunas or the salmon.

Two assistants were, however, eager to learn more about me in order to tailor their initially generic recommendations, which they had spewed out within seconds. Vacay , a personalized travel planning tool, presented me with a list of questions, while Mindtrip , a new A.I. travel assistant, invited me to take a quiz. (ChatGPT, the third assistant, asked nothing.)

Vacay’s and Mindtrip’s questions were similar: Are you traveling solo? What’s your budget? Do you prefer hotels or Airbnbs? Would you rather explore the great outdoors or pursue a cultural experience?

Eventually, my chat sessions yielded what seemed like well-rounded itineraries, starting with one day in Oslo and moving on to the fjord region. Eventually, I locked down a trip that would combine the assistants’ information and go beyond a predictable list of sites.

This time around, my virtual planners were far more sophisticated than the simple ChatGPT interface I used last year on a trip to Milan. Though it offered more detailed suggestions for Norway, I ended up ditching ChatGPT in the travel-planning stage after it repeatedly crashed.

Vacay’s premium service, which starts at $9.99 per month, included in-depth suggestions and booking links, while Mindtrip, which is currently free, provided photos, Google reviews and maps. During the trip itself, each delivered instantaneous information by text and always asked if more specific details were needed. Sadly, only ChatGPT offered a phone app, whose information I found to be outdated (the $20-per-month premium version is more current).

I’m not alone when it comes to turning to A.I. for help: Around 70 percent of Americans are either using or planning to use A.I. for travel planning, according to a recent survey conducted by the Harris Poll on behalf of the personal finance app Moneylion, while 71 percent said using A.I. would most likely be easier than planning trips on one’s own.

I decided to find out for myself in Norway.

A whirlwind day in Oslo

After I landed at Oslo Airport, all three assistants directed me to the Flytoget Airport Express Train , which got me to town in 20 minutes. I was delighted to find my hotel adjacent to the central railway station.

Choosing accommodations had not been easy. I was looking for a midrange boutique hotel, and the A.I. assistants generated many options with little overlap. I went with Hotel Amerikalinjen , Vacay’s recommendation, which it described as “a vibrant and unique boutique hotel in the heart of Oslo.” Its location was the main draw, but overall the hotel exceeded my expectations, blending comfort and style with the 20th-century charm of its building, which once housed the headquarters of the Norwegian America Line shipping company.

For the one-day Oslo itinerary, the assistants were in agreement, packing in the city’s top sights, including the Vigeland Sculpture Park, the Royal Palace , the Nobel Peace Center, Akershus Fortress and the Munch Museum. I shared my location and asked each assistant to restructure the itineraries to start from my hotel. But when I gave in to my own research instincts and pulled up Google Maps, I saw that the order they suggested didn’t make sense, so I plotted my own path.

By the time I got to Frogner Park at midday, I had already covered half of the sights, and after walking past more than 200 sculptures by the Norwegian sculptor Gustav Vigeland, I was happy to sit down and admire his granite monolith of entwined humans.

For lunch, the assistants recommended high-end restaurants in the bustling waterfront neighborhood of Aker Brygge . But I wanted a quick bite in a more relaxed atmosphere, so I ditched A.I. and walked to the end of the promenade, where I stumbled upon the Salmon , a cozy establishment where I started with salmon sashimi that melted in my mouth and finished with a perfectly grilled fillet. How had my assistants not mentioned this place?

Next on my list was the Nobel Peace Center, the Opera House and the Munch Museum. The assistants had not recommended prebooking tickets, but fortunately, I had done so, learning, in the process, that the Peace Center was closed, a crucial bit of information that A.I. did not relay.

It was chilly for mid-June, and as I walked along the harbor promenade toward the Munch Museum, I spotted small floating saunas, which my assistants had not included. I went back to the ChatGPT phone app for recommendations. Even though I was eager to try a floating sauna, where people warmed themselves and then plunged straight into the frigid waters of the Oslofjord, I took ChatGPT’s suggestion and booked the Salt sauna, which is where I headed after spending a few hours at the Munch Museum, with its extensive works by the Norwegian artist and its sweeping views of Oslo’s harbor.

At the Salt cultural complex , a large pyramidal structure on the water, I was relieved that swimsuits were a requirement. In Scandinavia, saunas are usually taken naked , and earlier, I had asked ChatGPT for the etiquette at Salt, but it failed to give me a definitive answer. After sweating it out with around 30 strangers in Salt’s main sauna, I dipped into a cold-water barrel tub and then tried the smaller sauna options, which were hotter and quieter. It was the perfect ending to a long day.

Waterfalls, lush valleys, raging waters

Each of my assistants had different ideas on how to reach the fjord region. ChatGPT suggested taking a seven-hour train ride and then immediately embarking on a two-hour fjord cruise, which sounded exhausting. Mindtrip suggested taking a short flight to Bergen, known as the “gateway to the fjords,” and setting out on a cruise the next day, which was perhaps more efficient, but would also mean missing one of the most scenic train rides in the world. Vacay also recommended a train ride.

After conversing with the assistants, I decided on a shorter train journey (six hours) that would deliver me to Naeroyfjord , a UNESCO World Heritage site with lush valleys and thundering waterfalls. But to figure out the logistics for transport and accommodation, I needed live train timetables, which I found on my own, and information on hotel availability that none of the assistants had.

At this point, I was desperate for human guidance to navigate the region’s expensive and limited accommodations. This is where the pictures and reviews on Mindtrip were useful, helping me to understand that I would be paying premium prices for the spectacular setting of a mediocre hotel.

The train ride from Oslo to Myrdal was breathtaking: rolling hills, mountain villages, fjords, waterfalls. But nothing prepared me for the majestic one-hour Flam railway ride that followed. Vacay had described it as an “engineering marvel” with a breathtakingly steep descent as it passes picturesque villages, dramatic mountains, raging rivers and pounding waterfalls, complete with a dance performance featuring a mythological spirit known as a huldra.

The next morning I boarded a Naeroyfjord cruise, recommended by Vacay, on an electric, 400-person vessel. I was surprised by the serenity of the fjord. Later I learned from a tour guide that I had been lucky to visit when there were no large cruise ships. It was hard to imagine an ocean liner maneuvering through the narrow, windy fjord, but when I asked ChatGPT, it told me 150 to 220 cruise ships squeezed through the fjord each year, a detail that I felt the travel assistants should warn travelers about.

The cruise ended in the village of Gudvangen, where rain made me cancel a hike to a waterfall and instead try my hand at ax-throwing in the Viking Village Njardarheim. The assistants had told me that there were buses that left town every four hours, a time frame that had worked with my original hiking plan, but now I was stuck. Thankfully, I took note of the A.I. disclaimers to check all information and found an alternative shuttle bus.

On my way to Bergen, I decided to stop in the town of Voss, famous for extreme sports like skydiving and spectacular nature. All the A.I.-suggested hotels were booked, but a Google search led me to the lakeside Elva hotel , which had delicious farm-to-table food. I suspect it didn’t make the A.I. shortlist because it was new.

I ended my trip in Bergen, which, despite being Norway’s second-largest city, maintains a small-town charm with its colorful wooden houses and cobblestone streets. With only half a day to explore, I followed Mindtrip’s short itinerary, starting with a hearty lunch of fish and chips at the bustling waterfront fish market and ending with a funicular ride up Mount Floyen for panoramic views of the city and fjords. The A.I. dinner suggestion at the Colonialen was perfect: cozy vibe, live jazz and locally sourced dishes.

The bottom line

None of the A.I. programs were perfect, but they did complement one another, allowing me to streamline my travel decisions.

Overall, Mindtrip — with its polished, dynamic interface that allowed me to cross-check details with maps, links and reviews — was my favorite. While it gave some good recommendations, Mindtrip needed more prompting than Vacay, which offered a wider variety of suggestions in more detail. Unfortunately, Vacay doesn’t save chat history, which I discovered halfway into my planning after closing the website’s tab on my browser.

The biggest drawback was the absence of phone apps for Mindtrip and Vacay, which led me to rely on ChatGPT’s basic A.I. assistant when I needed on-the-spot guidance. Mindtrip, I’ve since learned, is planning to debut an app in September.

Still, there were times when I desperately craved the human touch. Before setting out on a trip, I always contact friends and colleagues for recommendations. This time, as part of the A.I. experiment, I refrained from reaching out to a Norwegian friend until after my trip, only to find out that we had both been in Oslo at the same time.

That’s one element of travel that I doubt A.I. will ever master: serendipity.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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7 Free Travel Planning AI and ChatGPT Apps to Get an Instant Itinerary

Quick links.

• PLAN by ixigo
• Trip Planner AI
• Vacay Chatbot
• Layla, Wonderplan, and PLAN by ixigo are AI travel planning apps with customizable itineraries.
• iplan.ai offers detailed itineraries for popular tourist cities based on interests and budget.
• Curiosio plans road trips on all continents, while Trip Planner AI helps with activity selection and cost estimation.

You can tell a travel agent your preferred dates, the place you want to visit, and your budget, and expect a full itinerary of what to do there based on your preferences. But can AI do the same job?

These free travel planning apps use AI and machine-learning tools like ChatGPT to prepare an itinerary for you in a few seconds, and we took them for a spin.

Layla describes itself as an AI trip planner, meaning you can use it to decide your vacation destination, create itineraries, and find suitable hotels and flights.

If you are uncertain about your destination or would like suggestions, you can ask Layla for advice regarding your trip. Otherwise, enter your destination and ask Layla to create your itinerary. Within a few seconds, you'll get a detailed plan for your trip.

As Layla is a chatbot, you can enter a prompt to ask it to change your itinerary. For instance, ask it to focus more on outdoor activities or include local restaurants. If you're unsatisfied with the activities planned on any particular day, you can give instructions and ask Layla to regenerate that part only.

Once you've perfected your itinerary, you can share it with your friends via a URL or add it to your bucket list.

2. Wonderplan

Wonderplan is a wonderful AI tool for planning your trip. To create your itinerary, Wonderplan first asks you to enter your destination country and city, your budget, the number of days you'll be staying, and your interests.

It then creates a travel plan within a few minutes, displaying various places to visit, their descriptions, and the time usually spent at each location. Although Wonderplan doesn't show the trip map, it does provide a link to Google Maps for each place.

It also displays different types of accommodation available (like Airbnb, hotel, or hostel) and their respective costs. Similarly, there are details about transportation, food, and activities. This way, you can estimate the potential cost of your trip.

In addition to your itinerary, Wonderplan also shows essential information about the country you're visiting. These include the currency conversion rate, electricity plug type, languages spoken, weather, and popular conveyances.

3. PLAN by ixigo

PLAN by ixigo starts by asking you about your dream destination. Then, it provides an option to describe the type of experience you want to have. This is just like a ChatGPT prompt, so you can enter anything you wish.

For example, you can specify the duration of your stay, your interests, the kinds of activities you're looking for, whether you have a family with you, and so on.

But if you can't think of any prompts, PLAN by ixigo provides a few trip ideas, so you can always select those. PLAN by ixigo then shows a day-wise plan, showing what you can do in the morning, afternoon, and evening.

However, if the suggested itinerary doesn't sound appealing, you can again enter a prompt to edit it.

4. iplan.ai

While iplan.ai doesn't mention which AI or machine-learning algorithm it uses, the results are fantastic enough to gloss over that. The app works beautifully on phones to give you a full itinerary for any one city at a time, depending on how many days you have there.

The app first asks you to name the destination city. As far as we checked, iplan.ai works best for popular tourist cities, not offbeat or obscure travel. Next, note how many days you will be there, and then choose your free time each day—a cool step to ensure a better itinerary if you already have some plans, but not a whole days worth.

Tell iplan.ai if you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, and then choose your interest among topics like history, art and culture, nature, entertainment, shopping, food, sports, relaxing, etc. Finally, choose between an economy, normal, or luxury budget.

After a few minutes, iplan.ai gives you a day-wise itinerary for your trip. It's plotted on a map so you can see all the locations, and each point of interest has a brief description along with estimated travel time.

The app has both free and paid plans. With a paid account, you can share the trip plan with your friends and access it offline. Another limitation of iplan.ai is that you can't get an itinerary for a multi-city trip. For now, you'll need to make a plan for each city you're visiting, one at a time.

Download: iplan.ai for Android | iOS (Free, Paid)

5. Curiosio

The easiest last-minute travel plan is to get into a car and drive. Curiosio specializes in helping you plan an itinerary for a road trip to several major countries on all continents. It doesn't cover every single place, but the existing collection is impressive enough.

Curiosio uses its own AI engine, Ingeenee, which is trained on several crowdsourced travel-based resources, such as Wikivoyage, Wikipedia, Wikidata, Freebase, DBpedia, GeoNames, OSMNames, and OpenStreetMap. Through this dataset, it can chart an itinerary that meets your requirements across various parameters.

You can set options for a round trip or a one-way trip with starting and finishing points. If there are any places you want to visit on the way, add them in. Then set the number of travelers, dates of the journey, what vehicle you're using, total budget, and whether you want to visit places that spark curiosity or are obscure. The AI will usually give you multiple plans and routes for these options.

The itinerary includes a map of your route and a day-wise breakdown of where you'll be going and what you'll be seeing. Each point of interest is clickable to find more information about it. There are easy ways to share your itinerary with co-travelers, print it out, or even export it to Google Maps. Curiosio is one of the best road trip planners for your next adventure .

6. Trip Planner AI

Trip Planner AI plans a perfect trip to your dream destination. Begin creating your itinerary by entering the city you wish to visit and traveling dates. You can add multiple destinations here.

Then, select the kinds of activities you prefer, the number of people, and whether you're traveling with friends or family. Trip Planner AI asks you about your dietary preferences and budget.

As an optional step, you can specify the place where you'll be staying so that it creates an itinerary accordingly. If you haven't decided on your lodging yet, you can explore hotels suggested by Trip Planner AI.

Finally, Trip Planner AI generates a detailed itinerary, a map, and basic information about the city you're visiting. For each destination, it provides the details of the place, expected traveling time, and cost. Though it provides a complete plan for your trip, you can manually add or remove activities from your itinerary. You can also invite your friends to edit the itinerary and download it as a PDF.

7. Vacay Chatbot

Vacay Chatbot is not a dedicated itinerary maker but an AI chatbot that acts like your travel advisor. So, you can ask it to give travel recommendations, compare different destinations, and, of course, create an itinerary. If you've previously used AI chatbots like ChatGPT, you'll find this trip planner easy to use.

Just enter a prompt specifying your destination and trip details and ask Vacay Chatbot to create an itinerary. You can include details like your trip duration, budget, preferences, number of travelers, etc. The more details you provide, the better your itinerary will be.

One of the downsides of using Vacay Chatbot is that it doesn't provide a map for your trip. However, you can use these apps to plot your itinerary on a map .

All these travel planning AI apps urge you not to use the itinerary as-is and only treat it as a template or guide to begin planning your trip. This is because they currently have several limitations, like databases that aren't recently updated or require specific prompts from the user.

A real human travel agent will still give you a more customized itinerary, but it will cost you a few bucks. If you want a free base guide, more basic travel planning apps are a good starting point.

Watch CBS News

Sen. Bob Menendez's Egypt trip planning got "weird," staffer recalls at bribery trial

June 24, 2024 / 8:37 PM EDT / AP

A Senate staffer testified at a bribery trial that planning for Sen. Bob Menendez's 2021 trip to Egypt and Qatar got "weird" after the Democrat directed that Egypt be included in the process.

Sarah Arkin, a senior staffer with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, testified Monday as a government witness at a trial over bribes of hundreds of thousands of dollars in gold and cash allegedly paid to the senator in return for benefits he supposedly delivered to three New Jersey businessmen from 2018 to 2022.

Among favors he allegedly carried out, one included improperly pressuring a Department of Agriculture official to protect a lucrative halal certification monopoly the Egyptian government had awarded to one businessman. 

Then, prosecutors say, he aided a prominent New Jersey real estate developer by acting favorably to Qatar's government so the businessman could score a lucrative deal with a Qatari investment fund.

Besides charges of bribery, fraud, extortion and obstruction of justice, Menendez is also charged with acting as a foreign agent of Egypt. 

Menendez and two businessmen who allegedly paid him bribes have pleaded not guilty to the charges. A third testified earlier at the trial which entered its seventh week. When Menendez was charged last fall, he held the powerful post of chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, a position he relinquished soon afterward.

In her testimony, Arkin said Menendez had asked Senate staff to reach out to an individual at the Egyptian embassy who they didn't know as they planned the weeklong trip to both countries, even though such excursions were usually planned through the State Department and U.S. authorities.

Although foreign embassies were routinely notified about any U.S. legislators who were traveling their way, Arkin portrayed it as unusual that a trip by a U.S. senator would be planned in conjunction with a foreign embassy.

Later, Arkin said, she was told Menendez was "very upset" after he'd been notified that two Egyptians, including Egypt's ambassador, had complained that she notified Egyptian officials that Menendez would not meet with Egypt's president during the trip "under any circumstances." She said she was told that the senator didn't want her to go on the trip.

She testified that she told Menendez that the claim that she told anyone that he would not meet with Egypt's president was "absolutely not true" and that she would never use stern language such as "under no circumstances" even if he declined to meet with someone.

Arkin said another Senate staffer working to plan the trip wrote to her that "all of this Egypt stuff is very weird."

"It was weird," she said. Arkin said she was "not an idiot" and "would not have phrased anything that way" by saying the senator would not meet a foreign president of a nation important to the United States "under any circumstances."

Questioned by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Richenthal, Arkin also mentioned that Menendez's wife, Nadine Menendez , was "trying to be involved in the planning" and had "lots of opinions" about what she wanted to do during the trip.

Nadine Menendez also has pleaded not guilty in the case, but her trial has been postponed so that she can recover from breast cancer surgery.

As he left the courthouse Monday, Menendez said Arkin could have gone on the trip if she wanted, but she "chose not to go."

• Bob Menendez

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