Mostar City Guide

With a population of more than 106 000 people, Mostar is the 5th largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located in the south of the country on the Neretva River. Mostar is the sunniest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The climate is Mediterranean with mild humid winters and hot dry summers. The warmest month is July with the usual temperature of 26 °C, but occasionally temperatures can reach above 40 °C. Three official languages in Bosnia and Herzegovina are Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian. The official currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM),  locally abbreviated KM. You’ll have no trouble finding a place to stay in Mostar, as there is plenty of available accommodation around the city, from hotels, apartments, B&Bs to motels and camping sites nearby. 

Getting to Mostar

Since Mostar is one of the most popular destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is well connected with other cities in the country, such as Sarajevo, and the rest of Europe, such as Dubrovnik and Kotor. Below you can find the main airports, train and bus stations. 

By plane: 

• Mostar International Airport (OMO) is an airport located in the village of Ortiješ, around 7 km southeast of Mostar. The airport was completely renovated and reopened in 1998. Airlines that have connections with Mostar International Airport are Albastar, Croatia Airlines, Eurowings and Trade Air. Most of the connections are seasonal, but the flights to Zagreb, Croatia are available all year round. 
• Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ), also known as Butimir Airport, is the main international airport in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located near the capital city of Sarajevo, and the distance between the airport and Mostar is around 70 kilometers. The number of airlines operating is around 15, and they offer connections to more than 30 destinations in Europe and the Middle East. 

By bus: 

Mostar is one of the most popular destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is well-connected with other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as Sarajevo, Medjugorje and Tuzla, but also with the cities in the rest of Europe, such as Dubrovnik, Split, Kotor, Podgorica and Belgrade. Here you can find more information about the bus stations and stops in Mostar.

There are two bus stations in Mostar:

• Bus station East is located in the eastern (Bosniak) part of the city at Ivana Krndelja Square, around 1 km from the city center. 
• Bus station West is located in the western (Croatian) part of the city in Vukovarska street, around 3 km from the city center. 

By train: 

Mostar lies on the Ploce-Sarajevo railway that connects Bosnia and Herzegovina with Croatia. 

• Mostar railway station is located near the Bus Station East, at Ivana Krndelja Square. This route mostly follows the Neretva River and passes through Sarajevo, Konjic, Mostar and Ploce. Journey by train from Sarajevo to Mostar is famous for its scenery so you could incorporate it into your trip. Here you can check the departures and prices.

By car: 

Mostar is located on an important traffic junction, lying on route E73 that connects Hungary and the Adriatic Sea, the most important route in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Mostar is located around 130 kilometers south of Sarajevo and about 130 kilometers from Dubrovnik, Croatia. Bear in mind that the roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina are not in good condition and there are no dual motorways except in the outskirts of Sarajevo. When it comes to parking spots, you won’t have trouble finding one. There are two on the west side of the city near the Old Bridge, the first is located around 300 meters from the Old Bridge, the second one is located near the monastery in Franjevacka street. 

In a mood for a one day trip but you do not have a car? In that case we would advise you to rent a car. There are numerous rent a car companies in Mostar, such as Artic, Carrus, E&G, and Budget. We suggest that you compare the prices and book your car online in advance.

NOTE:

• Citizens of the countries that are in the European Union and the Schengen Area, but also citizens of Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Japan, New Zealand, Turkey, Russia and Ukraine may enter Bosnia and Herzegovina visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport. 
• Visitors from non-European Union countries should have a valid International driving permit along with their original driver licence. You will also need which can be bought at most border crossings with Bosnia and Herzegovina (Neum excluded).

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Sights

Mostar is not a large city and you will be able to explore it on foot and see all the major sights. Mostar is the most heavily bombarded of all the Bosnian cities and its historical core was severely damaged in Yugoslav War. The process of restoration started after the war, in 1995, but the scars of war can still be seen. Once one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the country, today it is separated into two parts, the west, Croatian side, and the east, Bosniak side. Here are some of the most famous sights that you definitely should not miss on your Mostar holiday.

The Old Bridge is a Unesco World Heritage Site and the most famous attraction in Mostar. It is located in the Old Town which is under UNESCO protection as well. The original bridge built by the Turks in 1566 was destroyed during the war in 1993, but it was rebuilt in 2004, using some of the original materials. It is located in the heart of the city, on the Neretva River. Even the new bridge is an example of the Islamic architecture, with its two fortified towers, the Halebija tower to the northeast and the Tara tower to the southwest.
The Old Bridge Museum is located next to the bridge, on the east side. The museum includes exhibitions on the bridge’s history including the photographs that were taken during the war in the ‘90s. Inside the museum is also the entrance to the excavations down below which you can enter for a fee of around 5KM (~2.5€). 

Kriva cuprija (the Crooked bridge) is located near the Old Bridge. It was built in 1558, and it closely resembles the Old Bridge. The original stone bridge was destroyed by the flood in 2001, but it was soon reconstructed on the initiative by UNESCO.

The Muslibegovic house was constructed around 300 years ago and it is considered one of the most beautiful houses from the Ottoman period in the Balkans. Unlike the earlier architectural styles, the house was built with a garden in the centre. The house has separate quarters for women and men. Here you can enjoy the preserved structure, items and documents providing an insight into the life during the Ottoman rule. Entry fee is around 4KM (~2€). Part of the house has been turned into a hotel, so you can even spend the night here to get the complete experience. 

The Kajtaz House was a harem for a Turkish judge built in the late 16th century. The original structure and items, such as Ottoman carpets and books in Arabic were preserved. The house belongs to the descendants of the original family and it is under the UNESCO protection.

The Hamam Museum is located in the only preserved hamam (Turkish bath house) in Mostar. The building dates to the late 16th and early 17th century and it is built in the classical Ottoman style. Here you can learn more about Ottoman customs and culture.

The Partisan Memorial Cemetery, located on Bijeli Brijeg (White Hill), is an excellent example of Brutalist architecture. It was built in 1965 in honor of the Yugoslav Partisans from Mostar who were killed during World War II. As many other monuments in Mostar, it was damaged in the war during the ‘90s, but was renovated and reopened in 2005 and was proclaimed a national monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

The Cathedral of Mary, Mother of the Church is one of the four Catholic cathedrals in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located about 1.5 km west from the Old Bridge and it is built in a simplistic but interesting postmodern style.

The Francisan Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul was originally built in 1866, but was destroyed during the war in 1992. The new church was built on the foundations of the old building, located some 400 meters west from the Old Bridge. The complex boasts with a library that holds more than 50,000 writings from both the East and the West, but also with an imposing collection of paintings made by Italian masters in the 16th and 17th centuries. 

The Orthodox Church of the Holy Trinity is the oldest Christian church in Mostar. It was built in 1873 but was destroyed during the war in 1992. The church was considered one of the most beautiful Orthodox churches in the Balkans region. Reconstruction of the church began in 2010. 

Koski Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque, built in 1619, is located in the oldest part of Mostar, near the Neretva River. This breathtaking example of the Ottoman architecture was badly damaged during the war, but the damage was not severe and the mosque was restored. The mosque holds an extraordinary collection of the manuscripts of the Quran and also holds the carpet that was gifted by the Austrian monarch Franz Joseph I. For a small fee you can climb up the minaret for a great birds-eye view of Mostar.

Events

With more and more visitors coming to Mostar each year, the festival scene has also been developing. This interesting city has a lot to offer, from music and film to cultural festivals. 

Mostar Blues & Rock Festival is a two-day festival that has been held every year since 2003. It is a respectable event, but also one of the most popular of its kind in the Balkans. During the years it housed many famous international and regional musicians, such as Ten Years After, Dr. Feelgood, Tito & Tarantula, Majke, Josipa Lisac, Yu Grupa and many others.

Mostar Film Festival started in 2007 under the name of Dani Filma Mostar, and 10 years after the name was changed to Mostar Film Festival (MOFF). The purpose of the festival is to present regional movies to a wider audience. 

Mostar Summer Festival is a three-day music festival that aims to introduce different musical genres, from rock, alternative rock, pop, hip-hop and trap, to funk, punk and electro music. Musicians performing at the festival are both international and from the region. The festival takes place during the summer, in the industrial zone of Mostar. There is a free transportation available during the festival, organised by the city of Mostar.

The Spring of Mostar is an international cultural event that is held every year, in the organization of Matica hrvatska. The aim of the festival is to spread cultural diversity and preserve the traditions and identity of Croatian people living in Bosnia and Herzegovina. During the festival you can enjoy different musical, theatrical, literary, art and film events.

Mostar Fair is one of the most important economic events held in the region. At the moment it is the most successful exhibition in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with more than 40,000 visitors yearly. Here you can witness new car models, new technological and chemical developments, but also exhibitions on tourism, sport and food.

Outdoor activities

When visiting Mostar make sure to set aside some time for outdoor activities that you can enjoy while also getting a chance to meet the locals and their culture. Here are some of the most popular activities you can do while in Mostar.

The competition in Mostar bridge diving takes place every year during the summer, but bridge jumpers can be seen throughout the year. After the professional jumpers that walk around in swimming suits have collected enough money, they will perform a jump for the cheering crowd. Even tourists are allowed to jump from the bridge, but only after they have paid a small fee to the Mostar Diving Club that can be found right under the Halebija Tower and where they will receive training from the experienced local divers. 

NOTE: Do not attempt the bridge jump without professional guidance.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with many breathtaking natural beauties, such as rivers, lakes, hills and mountains, and it is also a great place for hiking and enjoying nature. Hills around the city of Mostar are a popular place to go hiking, Hum hill being one of them. Should you go hiking around Mostar make sure to stay on official marked trails.

NOTE: Bosnia and Herzegovina is still not landmine free, so it would be advisable to hire a local guide for your hike. 

With the Neretva River passing through Mostar, kayaking is also an option if you wish to enjoy a day out in nature. If you are interested in kayaking near Mostar you can always contact one of the many travel agencies offering kayaking on the Neretva River.

In a need of a getaway? Visit the Kravice waterfalls, located around 40 kilometers from Mostar, on the Trebizat River. The waterfalls are around 27 meters high and they are considered a natural phenomenon protected by the state of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The lakes are suitable for swimming, but you can also enjoy the picnic area, picturesque old mill nearby or sit in the cafes or one of the restaurants that are open during the high season. Here you can check the price lists for waterfalls. At the moment there is no public transportation from Mostar to Kravice, so it would be advisable to go there by car (you can always rent a car in Mostar), taxi or even book a tour from Mostar.

Food

Balkan cuisines, including the cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina, are an interesting (and tasty!) combination of western and eastern traditions. Bosnian cuisine has a rich culinary heritage as it is influenced by Turkish, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Central European cuisine. Here are some suggestions on which meals to try and where to eat when visiting Mostar.

What to eat

Cevapi, a dish found throughout the Balkans, are a type of grilled dish made of minced meat. This kebab-like dish can be made with different types of meat, from chicken, lamb, pork to beef. It is usually served with chopped onions, kajmak, ajvar or sour cream. 

Burek is a filo pastry filled with cheese, meat, spinach or potatoes. This traditional breakfast is popular throughout the Balkans.

Meat under sac is any meat (lamb, veal, pork) cooked in a traditional way, under the sac. Sac is a metal or a ceramic lid in a form of a shallow bell with which the meat is covered and over which ashes and live coals are placed in order to cook the meat. This way the meat remains juicy and full of flavour. 

Bosanski lonac (Bosnian pot) is a traditional meal from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Recipes vary from region to region and from one person to another, but generally the stew is made of beef, lamb, potatoes, garlic, carrots, tomatoes, parsley and whole grounds of black pepper. 

Prsut (prosciutto) is dry-cured ham served uncooked. Bosnia and Herzegovina is famous for its Herzegovian prsut that goes through a completely natural and traditional production process. It is usually served with some herbs, cheese and olives.

Raštika (collard) is a very nutritious vegetable, similar to kale. In Bosnia and Herzegovina it is usually cooked with onions, garlic and dried meat.

Sujuk is a type of a dry, spicy sausage that is eaten in the Balkans, Middle East and central Asia. There are many variations on the recipe, but generally it is made of ground meat (usually beef or lamb), fat, salt, black pepper, garlic and red pepper powder. 

Musaka (Moussaka) is a traditional layered meal made with slices of potatoes (instead of eggplant slices), minced pork or beef and milk or yogurt mixed with raw eggs.

Japrak rolls, also called japrak sarma, are a cooked dish that consists of dried vine or collard that could be wrapped around a variety of fillings. In Bosnia and Herzegovina they are filled with a mix of minced meat, rice and spices and are usually served with mashed potatoes and yogurt. 

Filovane paprike (stuffed peppers) is a dish made of hollowed out peppers filled with a mix of minced meat, herbs, spices and rice that are cooked and usually served with mashed potatoes. 

Baklava is a sweet dessert pastry that is made of layers of filo dough and chopped or crushed nuts that are held together with sweet syrup or honey. In Bosnia and Herzegovina baklava is made with walnuts and sugar syrup.

Krempita is a cake dessert that is made with puff pastry dough and thick custard or creme made of whipped eggs and sugar.

Tufahije are a traditional Bosnian dessert made of cooked apples that are filled with creme made of crushed walnuts or almonds and sugar served with whipped cream and a cherry on top.

Rakija is a type of brandy popular in the Balkans made by distillation of fermented fruits. The classical rakija is transparent and has a strong smell. There are many variations, but the most popular ones are sljivovica (made from plums), lozovaca (made from grapes) and travarica (made with herbs). 

Where to eat

Prices in Bosnia and Herzegovina are cheap when compared to the Western Europe. There are plenty of restaurants and fast food businesses around Mostar, and most of them serve tasty local dishes and more popular international ones, so you won’t have any problems with finding something to your taste. Here are some of the most popular places:

Hindin Han is located in the west part of the city, near the Old Bridge overlooking the Radobolja River. Here you can try local dishes, but also some Mediterranean and Eastern European options. The restaurant is known for its large portions and modest prices. 

Restaurant Babilon can also be found west of the Old Bridge. Here you can enjoy the great view of the Old Bridge and also treat yourself to some delicious traditional food. They also offer vegan options. 

Teatar is located on the west side of the Old Bridge. Expect great view, relaxed atmosphere and typical Bosnian cuisine. Make sure to try local dishes and local beer.

Sadrvan is located some 50 meters from the Old Bridge, in the western part of the city. It may not have a view on the river, but it has its charm. The offer on the table is typical Bosnian dishes, Central European meals and even vegetarian dishes. Sip on the local wines and enjoy the traditional atmosphere.

Restaurant Harmonija is located about 200 meters from the Old Bridge. Here you can enjoy some great Mediterranean and international dishes. They also offer vegetarian friendly and vegan meals. 

Restaurant Urban Grill is located east of the Old Bridge, overlooking the Neretva River. Here you can enjoy some barbecued dishes, but also Eastern European cuisine. 

Cevabdzinica Tima-irma is located in the heart of the Old Town. It is a family business serving grilled local dishes and they are famous for serving large portions. Locals will probably tell you that the best cevapi in all of Mostar are served here, but it is for you to find out if that is true.

Bosnian cuisine isn’t really to your taste? Then head to Restaurant Megi located about 2 kilometers northwest from the Old Bridge. They serve Italian and Mediterranean dishes, but also tasty salads and vegan and vegetarian meals. 

NOTE: Some places do not accept credit cards, so make sure that you carry some cash with you, just in case.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, as in the rest of the Balkans, coffee culture is important. Going for a coffee here is a social event, so don’t be surprised when you see people sitting around in cafes for hours. Bosnian coffee is similar to Turkish coffee, but sugar is not added to the Bosnian version. Don’t worry since the sugar cubes are served with coffee!

Shopping

You can’t really leave without buying some souvenirs first. Mostar might be a small city, but it has its share of shopping malls and centers. Below you can find some of the most popular shopping hubs in Mostar. 

Mepas Mall is located around 2 km northwest of the Old Bridge. It was opened in 2012 and it is the biggest and the most modern shopping mall in the Herzegovina region. Here you can find different popular clothing brand stores, such as Zara, Bershka, Stradivarius, Pull&Bear, but also a bowling centar, cinema and a playroom for kids. Should you grow tired of shopping there is plenty of cafes that you can visit.

Piramida Mall, located in the very center of Mostar was opened in 2009. This small mall has more than 40 stores, cafes and restaurants for you to enjoy.

Prodajni Centar Mostar is one of the first classic shopping malls opened in the Herzegovina region. Here you can find around 50 different stores, cafes and restaurants. 

For the best locally produced items and souvenirs you should visit one of the famous Mostar Bazaars. Bazaars (markets) in Mostar are located in the centre of the Old Town, on both the east and the west side of the Old Bridge. It is a pedestrian cobblestone area with numerous shops. Here you can see many different shops and stalls selling Ottoman inspired items, such as carpets, clothes, jewelry and handmade copper items.

Nightlife

Mostar isn’t a large city and there aren’t many nightclubs, but the nightlife is still vivid as the city is dotted with many pubs and bars. Bosnians know how to have a good time, so wherever you go you can expect to have a great time! Here are some of the most popular places for a night out in Mostar

Night club Art is located within the complex of Džemal Bijedić University, so you can expect lots of young people ready to party. Music is a mix of Rock, pop, pop-folk, electronic, dance and house. 

Calamus club is located around 1 kilometer northwest of the Old Bridge, on the fifth floor with a terrace, so besides the good music you can enjoy the view of the city. Expect a mix of house, lounge and old school R&B music with occasional live jazz performances.

Pink Panther club is located in the western part of the city, near the new student centre Student City. Here you can expect local music, folk, but also popular international hits. Whether you like Bosnian music or not, you will be greeted by great atmosphere. They also have student discounts on Wednesdays! 

Cube nightclub is the place where you can enjoy a variety of music from the most popular international and local artists. You can check all of their events on their website.

Night Bar Duradjik is a place for hard and heavy music lovers. Besides good liquor and music they are also known for standup comedy and movie nights. 

Imaimoze craft beer garden has a wide range of great local craft beer and rakija. While you are enjoying the beer and great music you can also munch on some tasty Mexican food or Bosnian cheese. Luckily for non-smokers this is one of the few smoke-free establishments in Mostar.

Unique Ali Baba bar is located in the centre of Mostar. This disco-pub is located inside a cavern, so expect a breathtaking atmosphere. The club is open in summer, and its dim-lightning and interesting acoustics make Alibaba an experience you should not miss.

Shankly’s Pub is an English style pub located in the west side of Mostar. Besides great music it is also known for amazing burgers and a variety of local and foregin beers. 

Black Dog Pub is overlooking the river near Kriva Cuprija. The pub is popular among the locals and tourists. Here you can try out some good local craft beers, but also sip on foregin beers. Enjoy the wonderful view from the terrace while listening to live music and stand up comedy on the weekends. 

Good to know when travelling to Mostar

Tap water in Bosnia and Herzegovina is safe for drinking (except after periods of heavy rains), and you can also find drinking fountains around bigger cities.

There is free Wi-Fi near the Old Bridge.

As stated before the official currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark. Money can be exchanged in banks, ATMs, exchange and post offices around the city. Another thing about Mostar, most of the people will even accept euros and Croatian kunas.

Mostar is a safe city and the crime rate is generally low, the only thing you have to be worried about are the occasional pickpockets in crowded areas during the high season. 

Mostar was one of the most heavily bombarded cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina during the last war and the city is still recovering. It is advisable not to venture into the abandoned buildings, as they are not safe and could collapse. 

It is common and acceptable to smoke in almost all public areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but some restaurants and cafes have a non-smoking zone. 

Tipping is not common in Bosnia and Herzegovina, although locals have the habit of rounding up the check.

Useful contacts

Police: +387 (0)36 383-104

Fire department: + 387 (0)36 352-529

Ambulance: +387 (0)36 315 487

Emergency, Clinical Hospital of Mostar: +387 (0)36 336-000, Kneza Mihajla Viševića Humskog

Pharmacies working 24/7:

• Europharm Pharmacy: +387 (0)36 577-392, Mostarskog Bataljona b.b.

Map of Mostar