Planning your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip? This blog post has all the information you need!
If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and have an extra day or two, one of the most popular day trips is to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This charming town is fairly easy to reach from Dubrovnik and gives you a great opportunity to explore another country in just one day.
Keep reading this blog post to learn how to get to Mostar, whether it’s worth the visit, and what to do once you’re there. You can even follow our itinerary and enjoy the day just like we did!
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WHERE IS MOSTAR?
Mostar is a historic city in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, set along the Neretva River. It’s just about two hours from Dubrovnik, which makes it one of the most popular day trips from the Croatian coast. Mostar is best known for its famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), a landmark you’ve probably seen in many photos.
What makes this town really special is its unique mix of Eastern and Western influences. You can see it everywhere, from the architecture and local food to the daily life. With a beautiful old town and stunning natural surroundings, Mostar attracts visitors from all over the world looking to experience both its charm and its history. Make sure you’re one of those visitors!
HOW TO GET FROM DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR?
Traveling from Dubrovnik to Mostar is fairly easy, and you have a few options depending on your budget, comfort level, and time. The distance between the two cities is around 130 kilometers (81 miles), and since you’ll be crossing an international border, don’t forget to bring your passport or ID (if you’re from EU), no matter how you choose to travel.
DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR BY CAR
Driving is often the best option in Croatia, and that definitely applies for the trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar. It’s one of the most comfortable and flexible ways to travel. The drive takes about 2.5 hours, and you’ll have a couple of route options. You can either go through Neum in Bosnia, or take the Pelješac Bridge and drive through Metković. We personally prefer the second route. It’s smoother and gives you the chance to stop at scenic spots like Pelješac Bridge or the historic town of Počitelj in Bosnia.
Just keep in mind that you may need a Green Card, which is international proof of car insurance, to enter Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you’re renting a car, double-check with the rental company about this. Once you arrive in Mostar, there are several parking lots where you can safely leave your car for the day.
DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR BY BUS
Another popular way to get from Dubrovnik to Mostar is by bus, and it’s a solid choice if you’re not driving. The journey typically takes between 3.5 and 4.5 hours, depending on the route and how busy the border crossing is. Several bus companies operate on this route, including Globtour, Centrotrans, and FlixBus.
Buses leave from the main bus station in Dubrovnik and usually arrive at either the East or West bus station in Mostar. Tickets are affordable, between €15 and €25. Because the bus takes a bit longer, I’d recommend staying overnight in Mostar if you can. That way, you’ll have more time to explore and enjoy the town without feeling rushed.
DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR BY TOUR
If you don’t have a car and want a more comfortable and convenient option, especially if you’re traveling with others, consider booking a private transfer or a guided tour. With a private transfer, you’ll be picked up directly from your accommodation in Dubrovnik, and the journey to Mostar takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. Prices typically range from €100 to €150 per vehicle, which can be a great deal if you’re splitting the cost among a group. It’s a stress-free way to travel, particularly when it comes to crossing the border.
If you prefer something more budget-friendly but still well-organized, you can book a group tour. Some tours start at around €30 per person and often include additional stops, like a visit to the stunning Kravica Waterfalls!
Here are a few recommended tours you can check out:
IS IT WORTH VISITING MOSTAR?
I’d say Mostar is definitely worth visiting. It’s truly unique and offers a completely different vibe compared to Dubrovnik, which makes it a perfect place to experience something new. The town is full of character with charming cobbled streets and well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture.
You’ll also find plenty of riverside restaurants with absolutely stunning views, where you can enjoy incredibly tasty food influenced by both Balkan and Turkish traditions. Plus, prices are noticeably lower than along the Croatian coast, so it’s a great chance for both your taste buds and your wallet to get a little break.
IS ONE DAY ENOUGH FOR MOSTAR?
One day is definitely enough to visit Mostar. Depending on your travel style (whether you like to explore actively or take things slow) you can adapt your visit to fit the pace you enjoy most.
If you’re up for an active day trip, it’s totally possible to cover all the main sights in town and even squeeze in a short visit to Kravica Waterfall. On the other hand, if you prefer a slower pace, Mostar is the perfect place to just wander through the old town, enjoy a long lunch by the river, and enjoy in the atmosphere without rushing.
DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR 1-DAY ITINERARY (BY CAR/TRANSFER)
7:00 am – 10:00 am – DRIVE FROM DUBROVNIK TO MOSTAR, WITH STOPS
The drive from Dubrovnik to Mostar is very pleasant. Usually, it takes around 2.5 hours. Along the way, you’ll pass through beautiful landscapes and small villages, some definitely worthy of stopping and checking out.
If you have time, I highly recommend stopping for a quick break at Pelješac Bridge. It’s an impressive piece of architecture with panoramic views that are worth taking in. Another great stop is Počitelj, a charming little village with stone houses and a hilltop fortress that offers stunning views of the surrounding valley!
10:30 am – 11:00 am – SIT FOR A COFFEE AT PASHA TERRACE
One of my absolute favorite discoveries in Mostar was the lovely Pasha Terrace. This charming café and bar in the old town has the most stunning view of the iconic Old Bridge. It’s also surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to prices in Croatia.
You can sip on traditional Bosnian coffee for just 3 euros while enjoying in the incredible views of the bridge and the historic old town. They also serve traditional Bosnian sweets, and if you’re not sure what to try, baklava is always a delicious option.
We visited during sunset, and the light over the bridge was absolutely magical. But if you only have one day in Mostar, visiting in the morning is also a great option. It’s quieter, cooler, and just as beautiful.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm – EXPLORE THE OLD TOWN
The Mostar Old Town is absolutely charming and truly one of a kind. It has a really special atmosphere that sets it apart from most European towns, and it’s important to give yourself enough time to take it all in. With its cobbled streets, old stone houses, and that mix of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture, it honestly feels like stepping back in time.
Here are some beautiful spots you can’t miss while exploring the Old Town:
Stari Most
Mostar is best known for its beautiful Stari Most (Old Bridge), originally built in the 16th century by the Ottomans. Although it was destroyed during the Bosnian War, it was later carefully reconstructed and today stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bridge goes over the Neretva River, connecting both sides of the town, and serves as a symbol of unity and resilience for the people of Mostar.
Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is one of the most important Islamic landmarks in Mostar and definitely worth a visit. It’s known for its stunning Ottoman architecture, beautiful interior, and incredible panoramic views. The mosque has a single dome, a tall minaret, and breathtaking decorations inside. One of the highlights is climbing the minaret to reach the top for the best view of the Stari Most and the entire old town!
Bazar Kujundžiluk
Bazar Kujundžiluk is the oldest and most charming street in Mostar, and it’s a must-see while you’re exploring the Old Town. Located just steps from the Old Bridge, this cobbled street was once the heart of the Ottoman-era artisan and trade district. Today, it’s full of life and color, with traditional shops, cafés, and stalls lining both sides. You’ll find everything from handmade souvenirs and Turkish-style carpets to copperware, ceramics, and local art. It’s the perfect spot to grab a few souvenirs!
The Crooked Bridge
The Crooked Bridge is a small, historic stone bridge and it’s often considered a miniature version of the famous Old Bridge. It’s just a short walk from the main tourist streets and it is perfect for snapping a few relaxing photos or just enjoying the view in a calm setting. Definitely worth a visit while you’re in town.
1:00 pm – 2:00 pm – TRY LOCAL TRADITIONAL FOOD FOR LUNCH
Bosnia and Herzegovina has some amazing Turkish-influenced food, and trying the local dishes is definitely a highlight of any visit. Ćevapi, pljeskavica, pita, and burek are just a few of the country’s most popular specialties. If you’ve never had ćevapi before, I’d highly recommend giving it a try, it’s one of my personal favorites. We had ours at Restaurant ROTA, and they were honestly excellent, so that’s a solid recommendation. Another great spot is Restaurant Šadrvan, known not only for its traditional food but also for its unique atmosphere, with staff dressed in traditional Bosnian attire, which really adds to the experience!
2:00 pm – 3:00 pm – DRIVE TO KRAVICA WATERFALL
The drive from Mostar to Kravica Waterfall is easy and it takes about an hour. On the way, you can stop in Međugorje if you’re religious, especially if you’re Catholic. This small town became world-famous after reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary began there in 1981. Since then, it has grown into one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Even if you’re not religious, it’s an interesting place to see for its cultural and spiritual significance.
3:00 pm – 6:00 pm – ENJOY YOUR TIME & SWIM AT KRAVICA WATERFALL
Kravica Waterfall is a beautiful natural spot with a wide cascading waterfall and a large pool at the base where you can swim. The entrance fee is 10 euros, and once you’re in, you can stay as long as you like. If you’re planning to relax for a bit, you can rent a sunbed for 5 euros and a parasol for 3 euros. There are a few bars and restaurants nearby, all offering gorgeous views of the falls and the surrounding nature. If you’re visiting in the summer, it’s the perfect place to cool off and relax. Even outside of summer, it’s still absolutely worth seeing for its beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
6:00 – 8:00 pm – DRIVE BACK TO DUBROVNIK
After sunset, leave Kravica Waterfall and start your drive back to Dubrovnik.
