Explore Mostar: Discover Top Attractions, Sites and Things to Do
Mostar is a city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, straddling the Neretva River. It’s known for the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a reconstructed medieval arched bridge. The nearby alleys are full of shops and market stalls, and the Old Bridge Museum explores the bridge’s long history. A narrow staircase leads up to the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque’s minaret for panoramic city views
Bosnia and Herzegovina came on my radar a few years ago and I was very excited to add it to my late summer 2024 Balkans trip. I did very little planning, aside from a few key points, and really wanted to organically explore and have a relaxed trip after a whirlwind adventure leading up to it.
My plans to “relax” quickly went out the window when I realized there was so much to see and do in both Mostar and Sarajevo. From museums and landmarks, delicious food, to stunning nature and hiking, and endless medieval alleyways to explore, I was in awe of this beautiful country.
Here, you will find all the details of my 3 days/3 nights spent in Mostar.
Trip Details and Cost Breakdown
I found Mostar to be overall very affordable on my tourist dollar. While planning, I found a range of accommodations that were very budget friendly with great reviews and well located.
Mostar being very walkable kept transportation costs at minimal (none) and I found eating out to be very inexpensive and with most attractions being outdoors or free, I spent very little touring.
Overall, I would rank Mostar in one of the most budget friendly places I have traveled to to date.
🚍Bus
Kotor to Mostar: €27 (+€2.20 “station fee” and €1.5 “luggage fee"“)
I booked my bus ticket through Get By Bus and made sure to print my ticket as I was warned there were fees to print tickets at the station.
Even with a printed ticket, I was required to pay a “station fee” in Kotor and was not permitted to board the bus until doing so.
I was also required to pay the driver to put my luggage underneath the bus (as were all passengers).
⭐Be sure to have cash on you to cover these unexpected fees.
🚄Train
Mostar to Sarajevo €12. Tickets purchased here
More details on the Mostar-Sarajevo train here
🛌Accommodation
Pansion Oscar Summer Garden Guest House single room (with full size bed and private bath)
3 nights €75.06
🚕Transportation
€0
Mostar is quite small, and I found it very walkable. From what I was told by my Guest House host and other local folks, taxis are quite affordable
🖼️Activities
Museum Entry €10
All my other activities and sightseeing were free
🍽️Food and Drink
I found eating and drinking in Mostar very affordable with an average meal out, with a coffee or beer and water costing around €8-10. I found dinner portions were very generous and had I had a fridge easily could have been two meals.
In total, for 3 days in Mostar, I spent roughly €55 on food and drinks. This was a mix of meals on the go from the grocery store and meals from a range of restaurants. The one night I went out for drinks was paid for by a date.
When to Visit Mostar
I went to Mostar in early September and was surprised it was still quite hot and was also surprised by how crowded with tourists it still was.
I learned from my host, date, and a few servers I spoke to that the heat was a bit unusual, but that tourism was very high over the summer and what I experienced was actually much calmer than it had been in previous weeks and months.
Even with the heat and fellow tourists, I felt I went at a great time and really enjoyed the “extended summer” feel.
Since I can only speak for the time I visited, with a little help from Google, here is some more info on the best time so visit Mostar to have the best experience for you.
Spring (April to June):
Weather: Mild and pleasant, with blooming flowers and green landscapes.
Crowds: Fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season.
Events: Various cultural events and festivals start to take place
Summer (July to August):
Weather: Hot, with temperatures often reaching 30-35°C (86-95°F).
Crowds: Peak tourist season, so expect more visitors, especially around famous sites like the Stari Most (Old Bridge).
Activities: Ideal for enjoying the Neretva River and outdoor activities like rafting and exploring the old town.
Autumn (September to October):
Weather: Cooler temperatures, making it comfortable for sightseeing.
Crowds: Less crowded than summer, offering a more relaxed experience.
Scenery: Beautiful autumn foliage adds a picturesque touch to the city.
Winter (November to March):
Weather: Cold and wet, with occasional snow. While it’s less ideal for outdoor activities, it offers a unique and quieter experience.
Crowds: Very few tourists, providing an intimate view of the city’s local life.
Mostar Currency
The official currency of Bosnia-Herzegovina is the Convertible Mark (KM). I found that almost everywhere would take euro, especially in the old town/tourist area where many prices were displayed in euro.
I was warned about ATM fees (as with much of the Balkans) so I used currency exchange. I had no issue exchanging small amounts of USD ($20) as I needed it and received a fair exchange with no fees.
The majority of establishments I went to accepted credit cards, but there were a few small shops and one cafe I went to that were cash only.
My accommodation was also cash only, which many are.
Top Attractions and Things to Do
Mostar is a pretty small city, and many of the highlights can be covered in a day or two. I committed 3 days to my visit, and felt that may have been a bit too long, but had no problem finding things to do to fill my time.
To learn much of the history and get a feel of the city, a free (or paid) walking tour is highly recommended. I had a walking tour scheduled for my first morning in Mostar, but unfortunately had to cancel due to my bus getting in 6 hours late, so cannot recommend a specific one, but there are many options on sights like GuruWalk and Walkative!.
Mostar Old Town
The most tourist part of the city, this is where you will likely spend the bulk of your time and find the majority of the city’s most famed attractions.
Here you will also find endless shops, restaurants, ice cream stands, and cafes.
Many of the city’s accommodations are also found in the Old Town, as it is central and easily accessible.
👟This is a lovely area to just walk around and explore as there are many sights (and tastes) to take in. Be aware that the streets are stone and can be very slippery, especially in excessive heat or wet weather.
💼The Old Town is closed to traffic, which is beneficial for walking around, however; can be challenging when navigating luggage so be mindful of where your accommodation is located if within the Old City.
Museum Of War And Genocide Victims
🗺️Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 10a-8p
💶€10
I planned to visit Museum Of War And Genocide Victims in Sarajevo, but opted to go in Mostar to escape the heat and fill an empty afternoon.
The museum is quite small, but full of information and history and is a true testament to the strength and resilience of the city and country.
This was one of the most impactful museums I have ever visited and I am glad that I went early in my trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina as it helped establish a true understanding of what the country went through in very recent history, as well as the lasting impact that can still be seen.
Old Bridge Mostar
Stari Most, also known as Mostar Bridge, is a rebuilt 16th-century Ottoman bridge in the city of Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It crosses the river Neretva and connects the two parts of the city, which is named after the bridge keepers who guarded the Stari Most during the Ottoman era
It is nearly impossible to not see, or cross, Stari Most on any trip to Mostar. The Old Bridge truly is the main focal point of the city and is quite breathtaking.
During the warmer months, you can watch the “bridge jumpers” dive off of the bridge into the water below. You can also take a quick boat ride under the bridge and along the water, starting at €10 per person.
Be aware, the bridge gets very crowded and can be a bit tricky to cross as the stones are very slippery.
Pont Lučki
🗺️8RP8+4G2, Stari Pazar, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
For absolutely stunning views of Stari Most (Old Bridge), head over to Pont Lučki Bridge. Just outside the Old Town, this modern bridge offers a beautiful vantage point to of the old town with its gorgeous mountain backdrop.
Crooked Bridge
Kriva Ćuprija is a small stone bridge across the Radobolja river in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The bridge is oldest one arch bridge in Mostar, built in 1558 during the Ottoman rule. Its builder was the Ottoman architect Ćejvan Ketoda
🗺️8RP7+M7M, Jusovina, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
This little bridge holds so much history, and has withstood the conflicts of the cities.
It is both beautiful to view and to take in views from. This bridge also connects the two sides of the Old Town.
Karađoz Beg Mosque
Karađoz Bey Mosque is a 16th-century Ottoman mosque in the city of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina. With its big dome and high minaret, it is one of the largest mosques in the region
🗺️8RR7+GHJ, Braće Fejića, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 9a-12:30p & 1:30-4p
💶6KM (approx. €3) to enter, 12KM (€6) for a combined ticket to climb to the top of the minaret
I only visited the outside of this beautiful mosque, as I was not properly dressed, and planned to return to ascend the minaret, but never circled back. Based on the location, I am sure the views are spectacular and if you have the time, the climb is worth it.
Church of St. Peter and Paul
Church of St. Peter and Paul is a Roman Catholic church with a monastery in Mostar. It is located along the river Radobolja, at the foot of Hum. The church is run by the Franciscans.
🗺️Franjevačka 1, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Sat 8:30a-11:30a, Mon-Fri 8:30a-11:30a and 3:30p-5:30p, Sun Closed
💶Free
Unfortunately, I didn’t check the hours of this stunning church and arrived just after it closed for midday and didn’t return. The exterior was worth the visit alone, and from photos, the interior looks beautiful.
Mostar Off the Beaten Path
If you are like me, and plan a little too much time in Mostar, and don’t necessarily want to take day tours, there are some pretty cool things to do outside of the main tourist attractions.
Courtesy of my date, host, and finding random things on the map, I found some pretty interesting things around the city that I didn’t see on any guide or blog.
Here are some of the highlights.
Fortica Viewpoint
🗺️Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 9a-10p
💶Free
Fortica was one of my facorite things I did on my visit to Mostar. I opted to hike up to the viewpoint, which took about 2 hours from the Old Town.
While the hike is an option and offers a great work out and stunning views, the viewpoint, and glass bridge can be reached by car in about 20 minutes. It is possible to take a taxi up but be sure you discuss expectations and cost for the driver to wait for you, as you won’t be able to get one to come get you.
This is an amazing spot to take in a sunset.
If you google “Fortica” it will show a zipline and other adventure activities, but none of them seem to be currently open (or like they have been open recently).
There is also a large nature park surrounding the viewpoint where visitors can hike, picnic and enjoy endless nature.
“Abandoned Building”
🗺️Kneza Domagoja 5, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
I found this building by happy accident when exploring the area surrounding Plaza de España and I wandered through Park Zrinjevac. As a huge street art fan, I was thrilled to come upon this abandoned garage that is adorned in varying street art from political statements, uplifting messages, and just some funky art.
If you are a fellow street art fan, this is well worth a visit.
Park Zrinjevac
🗺️88000, Nikole Šubića Zrinskog, Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
Located between the Square of Croatian Greats (Rondo), Spanish Square, King Zvonimir Street, King Tvrtko Street and Nikola Šubić Zrinski Street, this beautiful park has something to offer everyone. From open green spaces, children’s playgrounds, a cafe, and beautiful murals.
This is also where you will find the famed statue of Jackie Chan.
Where to Eat in Mostar
Pekara Lučki Most
🗺️8RM8+XWR, Maršala Tita, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Mon-Sat 6a-11p, Sun-Closed
💶€
I am admittingly a burek addict and was on a mission to find the best burek in Mostar. While I had samples from many different shops, Pekara was the absolute best (in my opinion) and was very affordable.
Niđe veze
🗺️Husnije Repca 3, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 7a-12a
💶€–€€
A bit outside the main old city, Niđe veze quickly became a favorite spot with it’s beautiful garden, lowkey vibes, and vast but simple menu. Service was friendly and warm, and the food was absolutely delicious for both breakfast and lunch.
On both occasions I came here, I was also happy to find several other solo travelers.
Pizzeria & Restaurant "Mozzarella"
🗺️Soldina 9, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 8a-2p
💶€–€€
Located in an adorable guest house, Pizzeria & Restaurant "Mozzarella" was a random and lovely find. Everything from the decor to the service and the food was warm and welcoming and was the perfect first stop on my trip.
Prices are very affordable, and the food was fresh and plentiful.
Hindin Han
🗺️Jusovina bb, Mostar 88000, Bosnia & Herzegovina
🕰️Daily 9a-11p
💶€€
Hindin Han was my “Date night for 1” of my trip to Mostar and it did not disappoint. My only ‘complaint’ is that the portion size was so huge and food was so delicious I was very sad to leave so much behind.
The terrace is beautiful and offers great views, the food is tasty and beer is cheap, and my waiter was fantastic. There was also a great mix of people dining while I was there, which added a light and fun vibe in a slightly elevated setting.
Train from Mostar to Sarajevo
Adding some notes and insight on the train from Mostar to Sarajevo, since it is a very common route for visitors to Bosnia.
I found taking the train to Sarajevo from Mostar quite easy … especially after my bus adventures through the Balkans.
The trains are a bit antiquated, as is the ticketing process, but the process was easy and, in my experience, pretty efficient.
🗺️88000 Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina (located next to the bus station)
🕰️ The train runs between Mostar to Sarajevo twice daily.
💶Tickets range from €6-14
🎫Tickets should be purchased directly though the Railways of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina website
Once your reservation is confirmed, you will receive an email with your ticket number and reservation confirmation. This is NOT your ticket. You must show your reservation email and ID to the ticket agent and receive a paper ticket.
I heard the line to pick up tickets can be very long, so I arrived a full hour prior to my train. There was only 2 people in front of me in line, so my process was very quick. There are only 2 windows, so I can imagine the process is much slower closer to the train times and in peak season.
Tickets can also be purchased on-site at the station - during peak season, it is advised to purchase in advance
🪟For the best views: sit on the right side of the train going Mostar - Sarajevo, and the left side Sarajevo - Mostar.
Seats are not assigned by ticket.
