Best Time to Visit
May to September
Currency
Convertible Mark (BAM)
Language
Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Discover Mostar
Mostar isn't just a postcard of its famous bridge; it's a living, breathing palimpsest of history where the 16th-century Ottoman Empire meets the scars and resilience of the 1990s. The true magic unfolds in the cobblestone labyrinth of the Old Bazaar, where the scent of strong coffee and grilled ćevapi mingles with the hammering of coppersmiths, and the call to prayer from the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque minaret echoes over the emerald Neretva River.
This is a city best experienced through its contrasts: watching the heart-stopping leap of a bridge diver from the Stari Most, then descending to its banks to see the poignant 'Don't Forget' stone. Mostar demands you feel its layers, from the ornate Turkish houses and bustling market stalls to the hauntingly beautiful, bullet-riddled buildings that stand as silent memorials, offering a powerful and unforgettable lesson in cultural coexistence and recovery.
Why Visit Mostar?
Witness the Iconic Stari Most: More than a bridge, it's the city's soul. Watch the famous divers leap from 24 meters, walk its smooth, ancient stones at sunset for breathtaking views, and learn about its meticulous 2004 reconstruction, a symbol of reconciliation.
Immerse in Ottoman History: Step back centuries in the Old Town (Stari Grad). Explore the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for panoramic views, shop for handmade copper in the Kujundžiluk bazaar, and visit the Turkish House (Bišćevića Ćošak) to see authentic Ottoman architecture.
Experience Powerful Recent History: Confront the poignant legacy of the Bosnian War. See the 'Sniper Tower' (former bank), walk the divided Boulevard, and visit the Museum of War and Genocide Victims to understand the city's resilient spirit.
Indulge in an Affordable Culinary Journey: Enjoy incredible value. Feast on plates of ćevapi (grilled minced meat) at local buregdžinicas, savor slow-cooked Bosnian pot (bosanski lonac), and experience the ritual of Turkish coffee in a traditional kafana.
Use as a Gateway to Natural Wonders: Mostar is the perfect base for stunning day trips. Swim under the majestic Kravice Waterfalls, explore the medieval fortress town of Počitelj, or take a scenic train ride to the coastal gem of Sarajevo.
Capture Unforgettable Photographs: From the perfect arch of Stari Most framing the river and minarets to the dramatic light on the Old Bazaar's cobblestones and the stark beauty of abandoned buildings, it's a photographer's paradise at every turn.
Mostar is Known For
Ready to explore Mostar?
Mostar Neighborhoods
Stari Grad (Old Town)
The historic heart of Mostar, a UNESCO-listed maze of cobblestone streets, Ottoman-era shops, and bustling cafes centered around the Stari Most bridge. The vibe is tourist-friendly yet authentically atmospheric, filled with the sounds of craftsmen and the smell of grilled food.
Highlights:
Best for:
Bulevar (The Boulevard)
This wide, leafy avenue was the former frontline during the war, physically and symbolically dividing the city. Today, it's a vibrant commercial strip and a living museum, where modern cafes sit beside bullet-scarred buildings, representing Mostar's ongoing journey.
Highlights:
Best for:
West Mostar
Primarily a residential area with a more modern, Croatian Catholic character, offering a different perspective of the city. It's calmer than the tourist-centric east, with local markets, parks, and significant religious sites.
Highlights:
Best for:
Buna & Blagaj
Located just south of the city center, this area is defined by the stunning natural spring of the Buna River. It's a peaceful, green escape famous for the historic Dervish monastery (Tekija) built into a cliff face at the river's source.
Highlights:
Best for:
Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Visit the Stari Most early in the morning (before 9 AM) to have it almost to yourself for photos without the crowds.
- •For the best view of the bridge divers, stand on the west bank near the diving club. Divers usually collect tips before jumping, typically from May to September.
- •Wear sturdy, flat-soled shoes. The cobblestones in the Old Town are incredibly slippery, especially when wet.
- •When paying in cafes, it's common to round up the bill to the nearest convertible mark (BAM) as a small tip.
- •Try 'klepe' (Bosnian meat dumplings) at Restoran Šadrvan, a local favorite just off the main bazaar.
- •For a unique souvenir, buy a handmade copper coffee set (džezva and fildžani) from the coppersmiths in Kujundžiluk.
- •Take the scenic train to Sarajevo. The route through the Neretva canyon is one of Europe's most beautiful rail journeys.
- •Carry cash (BAM). While cards are accepted in larger restaurants and hotels, many small shops, market stalls, and cafes are cash-only.
- •Respect prayer times when visiting active mosques like Koski Mehmed Pasha. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) and remove your shoes.
- •Don't just stay on the main bazaar street. Wander the smaller side alleys to find quieter, more authentic workshops and cafes.
Mostar Food Scene
Mostar's cuisine is a hearty fusion of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and Slavic influences, centered around grilled meats, savory pastries, and rich stews. Dining is a social, affordable affair, with meals often enjoyed in garden courtyards or bustling traditional eateries.
Must-Try Dishes
Traditional Bosnian
- • Ćevapi at Tima-Irma
- • Klepe at Restoran Šadrvan
- • Bosanski Lonac at Hindin Han
Order a 'porcija' (portion) of ćevapi which typically comes with somun (flatbread), onions, and kajmak (creamy dairy spread).
Coffee & Sweets
- • Turkish coffee at Cafe de Alma
- • Baklava at Miris Dunja
- • Tufahija at any traditional restaurant
When your Turkish coffee grounds settle, you can have your fortune told from the patterns in the cup (a local tradition called 'kafa sa falom').
River & Grill
- • Fresh trout at Restoran Blagaj Tekija
- • Mixed grill platters at Urban Grill
- • Roasted lamb at Restaurant Labirint
The trout from the Buna river spring in Blagaj is exceptionally fresh and best enjoyed at a restaurant overlooking the water.
Street Food & Quick Bites
- • Burek from Buregdžinica ASDŽ
- • Sogan-dolma from market stalls
- • Pita (pie) from local bakeries
Burek is traditionally eaten with a glass of yogurt ('jogurt'). Ask for it 'sa jogurtom' for the authentic experience.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Mostar
Spring
Spring (April-May) brings mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and gushing waterfalls from melting snow. The crowds are manageable, and the countryside is lush and green.
Pros:
- + Pleasant weather for walking
- + Fewer tourists than summer
- + Nature day trips (like Kravice) are spectacular
- + Lower accommodation prices
Cons:
- - Occasional rain showers
- - Bridge diving shows may not have started (usually begin in May)
- - Evenings can still be cool
Summer
Summer (June-August) is peak season with hot, sunny days perfect for swimming at Kravice and watching the famous bridge divers. The city is vibrant but crowded.
Pros:
- + Guaranteed warm, sunny weather
- + All attractions and tours are operating
- + Lively atmosphere with outdoor cafes
- + Bridge diving shows are daily
Cons:
- - Large crowds, especially on the bridge
- - High temperatures can be intense for sightseeing
- - Highest prices for accommodation
Autumn
Autumn (September-October) offers golden light, warm days, and cool nights. The summer crowds dissipate, making it an ideal time for photography and relaxed exploration.
Pros:
- + Beautiful autumn colors
- + Comfortable sightseeing temperatures
- + Fewer tourists
- + Harvest season for local food
Cons:
- - Unpredictable weather, with increased chance of rain later in the season
- - Some seasonal activities may wind down
- - Shorter daylight hours
Winter
Winter (November-March) is quiet, cold, and often rainy, with a rare dusting of snow. It's a time for introspective travel, focusing on museums, cafes, and the city's poignant atmosphere.
Pros:
- + Very few tourists
- + Lowest prices for flights and hotels
- + Authentic local experience
- + Atmospheric, moody photography
Cons:
- - Cold, wet weather
- - Many day trip destinations (like waterfalls) are less appealing
- - Some restaurants/tours may have limited hours
- - Bridge diving does not occur
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Day Trips from Mostar
Kravice Waterfalls
40 min by car or organized tour
A stunning natural oasis where the Trebižat River cascades over a 25-meter high travertine barrier into an emerald green pool. It's a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the powerful beauty of the falls.
Počitelj
30 min by car or bus
A beautifully preserved medieval Ottoman village built into a cliffside overlooking the Neretva River. Its stone houses, historic mosque, and fortress offer a step back in time and incredible views.
Blagaj & Buna Spring
15 min by car or local bus
The source of the Buna River, one of Europe's largest and most powerful karst springs, gushing from a cliff face next to a 16th-century Dervish monastery (tekija). It's a place of profound natural beauty and spiritual significance.
Mostar Budget Guide
Mostar is an exceptionally affordable destination by European standards, offering great value for accommodation, food, and attractions, especially outside the peak summer months.
Budget
€30-45 per person for hostels, street food, free walking tours, and public transport.
per day
Mid-Range
€60-90 per person for private rooms/guesthouses, restaurant meals, museum entries, and occasional taxis.
per day
Luxury
€120+ per person for boutique hotels, fine dining, private guides, and rental cars for day trips.
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Hostels in the center offer excellent value from €10-15 per night.
- •A full meal of ćevapi with drinks costs around €5-7.
- •Most museums and mosques have entry fees under €5.
- •The free walking tours are excellent; tip your guide €5-10.
- •Local buses are very cheap (under €2 for city routes).
Mostar Hidden Gems
Karađozbeg Mosque
A magnificent 16th-century mosque located just outside the main tourist bustle, known for its elegant architecture and serene courtyard.
It's less crowded than Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque but equally beautiful, offering a more peaceful spiritual experience and excellent photo opportunities of its grand dome.
Partisan Memorial Cemetery
A striking, abstract WWII memorial on a hillside overlooking the city, designed by the renowned architect Bogdan Bogdanović.
This architectural masterpiece is often overlooked by tourists. It offers panoramic views and is a powerful, contemplative space dedicated to Yugoslav Partisans.
Muslibegović House
A stunning example of Ottoman residential architecture that now operates as a museum and a luxury heritage hotel.
You can tour the museum section to see exquisite period furnishings and gardens, experiencing the grandeur of a wealthy Ottoman family's home without staying the night.
Mepas Mall Rooftop
The rooftop parking area of the modern Mepas Mall in West Mostar.
It provides a unique, elevated, and completely free panoramic view of the entire city and the iconic Stari Most from a distance, especially beautiful at sunset.
Ali Pasha's Mosque
A historic mosque located on the east bank, known for its beautiful interior calligraphy and peaceful atmosphere.
It's tucked away in a residential area, rarely visited by tourists, allowing for an authentic glimpse into local religious life and a quiet moment of reflection.
Mostar Culture & Customs
Mostar's culture is a complex tapestry woven from Ottoman, Slavic, and Mediterranean threads, marked by both deep historical traditions and the profound impact of the 1990s war. Hospitality ('gostoprimstvo') is paramount, and social life revolves around coffee, shared meals, and lively conversation.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact. 'Dobar dan' (Good day) is the standard greeting.
- •Always remove your shoes before entering someone's home and often before entering a mosque or some traditional restaurant seating areas.
- •When invited for coffee or a meal, it's polite to refuse the first offer out of modesty; your host will insist.
- •Avoid discussing the war or politics unless your local companion brings it up first. Be respectful and listen.
- •Dress modestly when visiting religious sites: cover shoulders and knees for both men and women.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Mostar
Is Mostar safe for tourists?
Yes, Mostar is very safe for tourists. Violent crime is rare. Standard precautions apply: be aware of your belongings in crowded areas and use licensed taxis. The city is still visibly divided, but this does not pose a safety risk to visitors.
Do I need a visa to visit Bosnia from the EU/US?
Citizens of the EU, UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.
Can I use Euros in Mostar?
The official currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM or KM), which is pegged to the Euro (1 EUR ≈ 1.95 BAM). Some tourist shops, hotels, and restaurants may accept Euros, but you will almost always get a worse exchange rate. It's best to use local currency.
How long should I spend in Mostar?
We recommend 2 full days to explore Mostar itself: one for the Old Town, bridge, and museums, and another for the Partisan Cemetery and West Mostar. Add an extra 1-2 days if you plan to take day trips to Kravice, Počitelj, and Blagaj.
Is English widely spoken?
Yes, English is widely spoken in the tourist industry (hotels, restaurants, tour guides). Younger generations are particularly fluent. In more local shops or with older residents, you may encounter limited English, but people are generally helpful.
What is the best way to get to Mostar?
Mostar is well-connected by bus from regional hubs like Sarajevo (2-2.5 hours), Dubrovnik (3 hours), and Split (4 hours). It also has a small international airport (OMO) and a train station with a famously scenic route to Sarajevo.
Can I drink the tap water?
Yes, tap water in Mostar is safe to drink and is of very good quality, sourced from mountain springs. Locals drink it regularly. This also means you can confidently order drinks with ice.
Is Mostar wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the historic Old Town with its steep, uneven, and slippery cobblestone streets and many steps is very challenging for wheelchair users. Some newer parts of the city and major hotels are more accessible, but overall access is limited.
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