Mostar Bosnia is home to one of the most beautiful bridges in Europe. Its graceful stone arch leaps across the emerald Neretva River, with old stone houses and minarets on both banks. In addition, brave local divers jump from the top into the cold water below. Meanwhile, the cobbled bazaar nearby is full of copper workshops and cafés. However, the town also carries memories of a painful recent past, which makes a visit especially moving. So, here is how to plan your trip.
Quick Facts About Mostar Bosnia
| Country | Bosnia and Herzegovina |
| Region | Herzegovina, on the Neretva River |
| Known For | The Stari Most bridge, bridge diving, Ottoman bazaars and mosques |
| UNESCO Status | Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005 |
| History | Stari Most built in 1566, destroyed in 1993 and rebuilt in 2004 |
| Best Time to Visit | May to June and September to October |
| Getting There | About two hours by train or bus from Sarajevo |
Where Is Mostar Bosnia?
Mostar lies in the south of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the region of Herzegovina. Specifically, it sits on the Neretva River, about 130 kilometers southwest of Sarajevo. In addition, the Croatian coast and Dubrovnik are only a few hours away. As a result, many travelers visit on a day trip from Croatia, although staying overnight is much more rewarding.
Why Visit Mostar Bosnia?
First, the Old Bridge is a true masterpiece. The Ottomans completed it in 1566, and for centuries it was one of the widest single-arch stone bridges in the world. Second, the old town blends Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Mediterranean influences in a small area. Consequently, UNESCO listed the Old Bridge Area as a World Heritage Site in 2005.
Moreover, Mostar Bosnia is a place where you can learn about recent history. The town was badly damaged during the war in the 1990s. Nevertheless, it has been carefully rebuilt, and its story of recovery is inspiring. If you loved our guide to Kotor in Montenegro, you will enjoy exploring more of the Balkans here.
Things to Do in Mostar Bosnia
Cross the Stari Most
Stari Most, the Old Bridge, is the symbol of the town. It rises about 20 meters above the river, and its smooth stones are steep and slippery, so wear good shoes. Then, walk down to the riverbanks below for the classic view of the arch framed by old houses. Also, come back at night, when the bridge is lit up.
Watch the Bridge Divers
For centuries, young men have proved their courage by diving from the bridge. Today, members of the local divers’ club jump when they have collected enough money from onlookers. In addition, an annual diving competition takes place every summer. Whatever you do, do not try it yourself, since the water is cold and the jump is dangerous without training.
Explore the Kujundžiluk Bazaar
Kujundžiluk is the old bazaar street on the eastern side of the bridge. Historically, it was home to coppersmiths and goldsmiths. Today, it is lined with shops selling copper coffee sets, rugs, jewelry and souvenirs. Afterwards, stop at a café for a strong Bosnian coffee, served in a small copper pot with a cube of Turkish delight.
Climb the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque Minaret
The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque dates from 1618. For a small fee, you can visit the mosque, sit in its courtyard and climb the narrow minaret. From the top, for example, you get one of the best views of the Old Bridge and the river.
Visit the Crooked Bridge and Bišćević House
Nearby, the Crooked Bridge is a smaller stone arch over a side stream. It looks like a miniature version of the Old Bridge. Similarly, Bišćević House is a 17th-century Ottoman home with a lovely courtyard and rooms overlooking the river. Furthermore, several small museums in town explain the history of the bridge and the 1990s war.
Day Trips From Mostar Bosnia
Blagaj Tekke
About 12 kilometers south, Blagaj Tekke is a dervish house built beside the spring of the Buna River. The water flows out of a cave at the foot of a tall cliff. Therefore, it is one of the most peaceful and photogenic places in the region.
Kravica Waterfalls and Počitelj
Kravica is a wide horseshoe of waterfalls about 40 kilometers from town. In summer, you can swim in the pool below. On the way, stop at Počitelj, a small fortified village on a hillside above the Neretva. Together, they make an excellent full-day trip.
One Historical Fact About Mostar Bosnia
On November 9, 1993, the Old Bridge was destroyed during the war. After the conflict, engineers rebuilt it using traditional methods and local stone, some of it recovered from the river. Finally, the bridge reopened in 2004 and became a symbol of reconciliation.
How to Get to Mostar Bosnia
From Sarajevo, trains and buses reach Mostar in about two hours. In fact, the train ride is one of the most scenic in the Balkans. Alternatively, buses run from Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia. Once you arrive, you can explore the old town easily on foot.
Best Time to Visit Mostar Bosnia
The best time to visit is from May to June or from September to October. During these months, the weather is warm but comfortable. On the other hand, July and August are very hot, often above 35°C, and the bridge gets crowded with day-trippers. Meanwhile, winters are mild but quieter.
Is Mostar Bosnia Worth Visiting?
Yes, without a doubt. Mostar Bosnia combines a stunning setting, Ottoman heritage and a powerful modern story. Ideally, stay one night so you can enjoy the bridge early in the morning and after dark. For another historic river town, see our guide to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.
Final Thoughts on Mostar Bosnia
In short, Mostar is a town that stays with you. Cross the Old Bridge, sip Bosnian coffee in the bazaar and watch a diver plunge into the Neretva. By the end of your visit, you will understand why this bridge means so much to the people who rebuilt it.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Ramirez: Mostar Old Town Panorama 2007, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Fred Romero from Paris, France: Mostar – Kujundžiluk (49033904717), CC BY 2.0
- Pudelek (Marcin Szala): Mostar – view from Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Julian Nyča: Blagaj – Vrelo Bune 1, CC BY-SA 3.0
- old_s: Kravica waterfall july 2012, CC0
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