Discovering the Best of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Travel Guide

If you’re planning to visit Mostar, Bosnia-Herzegovina, for a day, there are plenty of things to do and see in this fascinating city. Mostar is a mix of cultures and influences, with a rich history and stunning setting, surrounded by mountains and bisected by the Neretva River.

The top tourist attractions in Mostar are located in the Bosniak area of the city, which encompasses the Old Town. This area is divided into two parts—the Catholic Croat western side of the river and the Muslim Bosniak eastern side of the river. The two communities are linked together by several bridges, the most famous of which is the Stari Most, or Old Bridge.

Here are some things to do in Mostar in one day:

Visit the Old Bridge: The Stari Most is the most famous bridge in Bosnia and was destroyed during the civil war before being rebuilt. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of the city.
Explore the Old Town: The Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, Turkish-style bazaars, and historic buildings, including mosques, churches, and traditional houses.
Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque: This mosque offers stunning views of the city from its minaret and is one of the most beautiful examples of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.
Walk along the Neretva River: The river is one of the most scenic in the Balkans, and a stroll along its banks is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Try traditional Bosnian cuisine: Mostar has a rich culinary tradition, and there are plenty of restaurants in the Old Town serving local dishes, including cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (savory pastry), and baklava (sweet pastry).
Shop at the bazaar: The bazaar is a vibrant market selling everything from jewelry and souvenirs to spices and traditional clothing.
Visit the Museum of Herzegovina: This museum is housed in a traditional Ottoman-style house and showcases the history and culture of the Herzegovina region.
Relax at a café: Mostar has plenty of charming cafes where you can sit back and enjoy a coffee or tea while taking in the city’s sights and sounds.

While it’s possible to see all of the top tourist attractions in Mostar in one day, it’s recommended to book a night or two at an authentic Mostar accommodation to experience the city’s enchanting evenings and quiet riverside ambiance.

Morning: Start your day in Mostar with a visit to the Stari Most Old Bridge, one of the absolute highlights in the entire Balkan region. Spend some time on and around the bridge, watching people do some daredevil Mostar bridge diving and seeing it from different angles. There are great views from the western riverbank below and from the Lučki Bridge to the south. Seeing this world-famous Bosnia bridge alone makes it worth it to visit Mostar. Before you start exploring the city, head to the visitor center on the western side of the Neretva River to pick up a map of the Mostar Old Town.

Afternoon: Explore the bazaars and mosques in the Mostar Old Town. Walk along Coppersmith’s Street, a vibrant cobblestone street lined with craft shops and bazaars selling everything from handmade bracelets and oriental rugs to kitschy Balkan war artifacts and copper decorations. Don’t miss the occasional view of the Mostar Bridge while you’re there. At the end of the street, you’ll find the Koski Mehmet-Pasha Mosque, which is open to visitors. This beautiful mosque offers an insight into Bosnia-Herzegovina’s Muslim culture. Make sure to climb the steep and winding stairway to the top of one of the minarets for truly mesmerizing panoramic views.

Evening: After a day of exploring, it’s time to relax and enjoy a local bite to eat and a beverage. Head to Braće Fejića, a boulevard that’s a northern extension of Coppersmith’s Street. Here you’ll find excellent food and drink opportunities while also offering tourists a peek at the local nightlife away from the tourist areas. Make sure to try a traditional Bosnian dessert like sutlijaš to cap off your day in Mostar.

More places to visit in Mostar

Blagaj Tekija: Located about 12 kilometers southeast of Mostar, this is a Sufi monastery built into a cliffside near the source of the Buna River. The stunning location and architecture make it a must-visit attraction.
Kravice Waterfalls: About 40 kilometers south of Mostar, these cascading waterfalls are a natural wonder and popular swimming spot during the summer months.
Počitelj: A historic town located about 30 kilometers south of Mostar, Počitelj boasts well-preserved Ottoman architecture and a hilltop fortress with sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.
Vrelo Bune: Another natural wonder located about 15 kilometers southeast of Mostar, Vrelo Bune is a stunning karstic spring that flows into the Buna River.
Biscevic House: This historic 17th-century Ottoman mansion located in the center of Mostar has been converted into a museum showcasing traditional Bosnian architecture and culture.
War Childhood Museum: This museum in Mostar collects and shares the stories and memories of children who grew up during the Bosnian War, providing a unique perspective on the conflict and its impact on local communities.
Ottoman Hamam Museum: This museum in Mostar is housed in a restored 16th-century Turkish bathhouse and showcases the history and culture of Ottoman-era Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Hum Hill: A short hike up this hill just outside of Mostar provides stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape, making it a popular spot for sunset watching.