Mostar Area, Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide

Discover the historic charm and natural beauty of Mostar, a city of resilience and cultural richness in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where past and present blend seamlessly.

Mostar, a gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is known for its historic bridge, Stari Most. This iconic structure, rebuilt after the war, symbolizes peace and resilience. The Old Town, with its Ottoman-era architecture, cobbled streets, and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into the past. Visitors can enjoy traditional Bosnian coffee in quaint cafes, surrounded by the sounds of the Neretva River. The Neretva River, with its emerald waters, is perfect for a summer swim or a scenic stroll along its banks. Adventurers can also experience white-water rafting. Don't miss the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, which provides sweeping views of the city from its minaret. For a deeper understanding of the region's history, visit the Museum of War and Genocide Victims. The surrounding area of Mostar offers more treasures. The Kravice Waterfalls, a short drive away, are a natural wonder ideal for picnics and swimming. The village of Blagaj, with its serene Dervish Monastery built into a cliff, offers a tranquil escape. Wine lovers can explore the local vineyards and taste unique Herzegovinian wines. Mostar and its surroundings promise a rich, cultural, and adventurous experience for all travelers.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mostar Area.

Visit Stari Most at sunrise or sunset for the best photos and fewer crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town.
Try traditional Bosnian dishes like Ćevapi or Burek at local restaurants.
Bring cash, as some smaller shops and cafes might not accept credit cards.
Take a day trip to Blagaj and Kravice Waterfalls for a complete experience.

Explore Mostar Area: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Mostar Area

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Apparition Hill

Discover the serenity and spiritual richness of Apparition Hill in Bijakovići, a pilgrimage site that captivates hearts and souls.

4.9

Počitelj Fortress

Explore the enchanting Počitelj Fortress in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a historical gem with stunning views and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Lukomir viewpoint

Explore the stunning Lukomir Viewpoint in Bosnia for breathtaking mountain panoramas and a serene escape into nature's beauty.

4.9

Nekropole sa stećcima

Explore the UNESCO-listed Nekropole sa Stećcima, where ancient tombstones reveal the rich history and cultural heritage of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

4.8

Best landmarks in Mostar Area

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Old Bridge Mostar

Discover the Old Bridge in Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and experience the charm of Bosnia and Herzegovina's rich cultural tapestry.

4.8

Mostar Old Town

Discover Mostar's historic heart: a blend of Ottoman architecture, cultural heritage, and the iconic Stari Most bridge.

4.8

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

Discover Mostar's Ottoman heritage at this stunning mosque with panoramic city views, a serene courtyard, and exquisite Islamic art.

4.5

Mostar, Hercegovina

Discover Mostar, Bosnia: Where history, culture, and stunning landscapes converge at the iconic Stari Most bridge.

5.0

Best restaurants in Mostar Area

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Restaurant Šadrvan

Experience authentic Eastern European cuisine at Restaurant Šadrvan in Mostar - where tradition meets flavor in a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

Tima - Irma

Discover Tima - Irma: A Traditional Barbecue Haven in Mostar Offering Authentic Bosnian Flavors.

4.8

Hindin Han

Discover authentic Bosnian cuisine at Hindin Han in Mostar - where every dish tells a story.

4.6

Megi

Experience authentic Bosnian cuisine at Megi in Mostar - where tradition meets modern culinary excellence.

4.7

Best bars in Mostar Area

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Shankly's Pub

Discover the heart of Mostar at Shankly's Pub - where culture, community, and great food meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.8

Gastro Pub Gonzales

Experience the best of Bosnian and international cuisine at Gastro Pub Gonzales in Mostar, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

4.6

TABOO Bar Restaurant

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite flavors of TABOO Bar Restaurant in Mostar, where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

4.7

Black Pearl

Discover Black Pearl Cafe in Mostar – a perfect blend of cozy ambiance and an extensive cocktail menu awaits you in this charming city.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Mostar Area

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Bazza

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Mostar at Bazza, a lively bar and jazz club offering soulful music and a welcoming atmosphere.

4.7

GoldenCube - Night Club

Discover Mostar's nightlife at GoldenCube Night Club, where music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere await you.

4.5

Night Bar Duradzik

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Night Bar Duradzik in Mostar, where great drinks and live entertainment create unforgettable evenings.

4.8

Daleka obala

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Daleka Obala, the ultimate night club in Mostar with electrifying music and an unforgettable atmosphere.

4.0

Best shops in Mostar Area

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Mepas Mall

Discover the vibrant shopping scene at Mepas Mall in Mostar, where local culture meets international brands and culinary delights.

4.5

Piramida shopping centar

Experience modern shopping and local culture at Piramida Shopping Center, a must-visit destination in Mostar filled with boutiques, cafes, and wellness services.

4.1

Megamarket

Explore a shopping paradise at Megamarket in Mostar, where local charm meets international brands for an unforgettable retail experience.

4.4

LC Waikiki Mostar Outlet

Explore stylish clothing at LC Waikiki Mostar Outlet, where fashion meets affordability in the heart of Mostar.

4.5

Explore Mostar Area on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Mostar Area, mapped for you.

Mostar Area Essentials

Mostar is located in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The nearest international airport is Mostar International Airport (OMO), located about 7 kilometers from the city center. Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) is another option, approximately 130 kilometers away. From Sarajevo, you can take a train or a bus to Mostar, which usually takes around 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, you can drive or hire a taxi for the journey. There are also regular bus services from Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia, which are popular entry points for travelers.
Mostar is a relatively small city, and its main attractions are within walking distance. Local buses and taxis are readily available for longer trips within the city and to nearby areas. Car rental services are also available for those who prefer to explore the region at their own pace. The train and bus stations are centrally located, making it easy to catch public transport to other cities and towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The official currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Convertible Mark (BAM). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in Mostar, and many offer instructions in English. It's a good idea to have some local currency on hand for incidental purchases.
Mostar is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to exercise common sense and standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, such as markets and public transport. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, ambulance, and fire services. The local police station and medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, are available in Mostar. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering mosques or churches, dress appropriately and follow any specific rules, such as removing shoes or covering your head. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers and give up your seat to elderly or disabled individuals. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A smile goes a long way in creating a positive first impression. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Mostar like a local, visit the Old Bazaar (Kujundžiluk), where you can find traditional crafts and souvenirs. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and its surrounding area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, attend a local coffee shop and try Bosnian coffee. Additionally, exploring the nearby Blagaj Tekke, a Dervish monastery built at the base of a cliff, offers a serene and historical experience.

When is the best time to visit Mostar Area?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Mostar Area

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Mostar Area. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloZdravo
  [Zdrah-voh]
- GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [Doh-vee-jen-ya]
- YesDa
  [Dah]
- NoNe
  [Neh]
- Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [Moh-leem]
- Thank youHvala
  [Hvah-lah]
- Excuse me/SorryIzvini
  [Eez-vee-nee]
- How are you?Kako si?
  [Kah-koh see?]
- Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [Doh-broh. Ah tee?]
- Do you speak English?Govoriš li engleski?
  [Go-vo-reesh lee eng-les-kee?]
- I don't understandNe razumijem
  [Neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMogu li vidjeti meni, molim
  [Moh-goo lee veed-yeh-tee meh-nee, moh-leem]
- I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [Neh yeh-dem meh-so]
- Cheers!Živjeli!
  [Zhee-ve-lee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [Zheh-leem pla-tee-tee, moh-leem]
- Help!Pomoć!
  [Poh-mohtch!]
- Go away!Idi odavde!
  [Ee-dee oh-dahv-deh!]
- Call the Police!Pozovi policiju!
  [Poh-zoh-vee poh-lee-tsee-yoo!]
- Call a doctor!Pozovi doktora!
  [Poh-zoh-vee dohk-toh-rah!]
- I'm lostIzgubio/la sam se
  [Eez-goo-bee-oh/lah sahm seh]
- I'm illBolestan/sna sam
  [Boh-leh-stahn/snah sahm]
- I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [Zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
- I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [Sah-moh gleh-dahm]
- How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [Koh-lee-koh koh-shta?]
- That's too expensiveTo je previše skupo
  [To yeh preh-vee-sheh skoo-poh]
- Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee spoos-tee-tee tsee-yeh-noo?]
- What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [Koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee?]
- It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [Yeh-dahn yeh saht]
- Half past (10)Pola (deset)
  [Poh-lah (deh-set)]
- MorningJutro
  [Yoo-troh]
- AfternoonPopodne
  [Poh-pohd-neh]
- EveningVeče
  [Veh-cheh]
- YesterdayJučer
  [Yoo-chehr]
- TodayDanas
  [Dah-nahs]
- TomorrowSutra
  [Soo-trah]
- 1Jedan
  [Yeh-dahn]
- 2Dva
  [Dvah]
- 3Tri
  [Tree]
- 4Četiri
  [Cheh-tee-ree]
- 5Pet
  [Peh-t]
- 6Šest
  [Shehst]
- 7Sedam
  [Seh-dahm]
- 8Osam
  [Oh-sahm]
- 9Devet
  [Deh-veht]
- 10Deset
  [Deh-set]
- Where's a/the...?Gdje je...
  [Gdyeh yeh]
- What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [Koh-yah yeh ah-deh-srah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na mapi)?
  [Moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee (nah mah-pee)]
- When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [Kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (za ....)
  [Yeh-dnoo kar-too (zah)]

History of Mostar Area

Mostar was founded in the 15th century during the Ottoman Empire's expansion into the Balkans. It quickly grew into an important administrative and commercial center. The iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) was constructed in 1566 by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan’s apprentice, Mimar Hayruddin. The bridge became an architectural marvel of its time and a symbol of unity and connection.
Following the decline of the Ottoman Empire, Mostar fell under Austro-Hungarian rule in 1878. This period saw significant urban development and modernization. Many European-style buildings were constructed, blending Western architectural elements with the existing Ottoman structures. The railway connecting Mostar to Sarajevo and further to the Adriatic Sea was also introduced, boosting trade and transportation.
During World War II, Mostar was part of the Independent State of Croatia, a puppet state of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy. The city experienced occupation, resistance, and significant destruction. After the war, Mostar became part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The rebuilding process focused on restoring the city's infrastructure and harmonizing its diverse cultural heritage.
Under Yugoslav rule, Mostar thrived as an industrial and cultural hub. The city’s diverse population of Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs coexisted relatively peacefully. Mostar was known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, theaters, and sports events. The Stari Most remained a symbol of multicultural harmony during this period.
The Bosnian War (1992-1995) had a devastating impact on Mostar. The city witnessed intense fighting between Bosniak and Croat forces, leading to severe destruction, including the tragic demolition of the Stari Most in 1993. The war caused immense human suffering and left deep scars on the community. Post-war efforts focused on rebuilding and reconciliation.
Following the Bosnian War, extensive efforts were made to reconstruct Mostar and restore its cultural landmarks. The Stari Most was meticulously rebuilt and reopened in 2004. In 2005, the bridge and the Old Town of Mostar were inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, recognizing their historical significance and the successful restoration efforts. Today, Mostar stands as a testament to resilience and cultural heritage.
Today, Mostar is a vibrant city that attracts tourists from around the world. It is celebrated for its stunning architecture, rich history, and diverse cultural traditions. The city hosts various cultural events and festivals, such as the Mostar Summer Fest and the traditional diving competition from the Stari Most. Mostar continues to be a symbol of multicultural coexistence and resilience.