Imagine a city where Turkish minarets mirror in the emerald Neretva River, and young divers tempt fate with leaps from ancient bridges. Mostar isn’t just a bridge, it’s the living heartbeat of Herzegovina, a blend of Ottoman glory, war scars, and resilient rebirth. Walking its streets feels like strolling through time, every stone whispering a story.
This place pulls you in with its raw energy, where the call to prayer mingles with church bells and the rush of river waters below. Mostar has seen empires rise and fall, Ottoman sultans, Austro-Hungarian officers, Yugoslav factories, but it always bounces back stronger, like the divers who train from boyhood to conquer the bridge’s height. You’ll taste it in the smoky ćevapi stalls, hear it in locals’ tales over rakija, and feel it in the warm stone underfoot. These 5 things to do in Mostar aren’t checklists; they’re portals to a world where history isn’t past, it’s pulsing.
Whether chasing adrenaline or quiet wonders, Mostar rewards the curious. Picture golden sunsets from ancient fortresses or misty mornings at cliffside monasteries, these moments linger long after you leave. Packed with insider secrets, historical depths, and practical magic, this guide ensures your trip hits every high note. Get ready for a journey you’ll remember for years.
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Introduction to Things to Do in Mostar
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s fifth-largest city, nestles along the Neretva River, named after the “mostari”, bridge keepers from Ottoman times. Its first written mention dates to 1474, though Roman ruins beneath hint at deeper roots. The Ottomans conquered it in 1468, dubbing it Köprühisar or “Bridge Fortress,” starting with just 15 houses that soon sprawled into a bustling hub.
The city grew between Hum Hill and Velež Mountain, evolving from a wooden bridge to the iconic stone Stari Most in 1566, commissioned by Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. Architect Mimar Hayruddin, a pupil of the great Sinan, crafted its 30-meter span, standing 24 meters high, a “rainbow reaching the heavens,” as traveler Evliya Çelebi marveled. Mostar thrived as a trade center, its mahalas and bazaars teeming with goldsmiths and merchants. By the 19th century, it was a key caravan stop on routes from Dubrovnik to the Adriatic, blending Bosniak, Croat, and Serb communities in a vibrant mosaic that defined its identity.
Austro-Hungarian rule from 1878 brought modern boulevards and neoclassical flair, but World War II and Yugoslavia shifted focus to industry. The 1992-1993 siege shattered it all: Croatian forces bombarded the Old Bridge on November 9, 1993, sending it tumbling into the Neretva after centuries of defiance. Rebuilt by 2004 with original methods, it stands as UNESCO’s symbol of reconciliation. Today, Mostar lures over a million visitors yearly, blending East and West in a way that captivates. What draws you here? The thrill of bridge divers, the chill of waterfalls, or echoes of empires? These 5 things to do in Mostar mix must-sees with insider vibes, perfect for first-timers or repeat explorers.
1. Watch Divers at Stari Most in Mostar
No trip to Mostar skips Stari Most, the Old Bridge, which stands as the heart of things to do in Mostar. Built in 1566, this UNESCO gem spans 29.58 meters, and its smooth pebbles bear the marks of centuries of footsteps. Legend holds that Hayruddin tested it by marching 1,000 sheep across, proving genius engineering without mortar, using only precise limestone blocks.
Mostar’s bridge divers steal the show every time. Since the 17th century, locals from the Hećimović and Dudić clans have plunged 24 meters into the chilly Neretva, a tradition born when a youth saved a girl from drowning and earned the right. Today, the Red Bulls Diving Club trains teens, and jumps cost €20-€40 in donations, but pros like Denis Bećirović nail 360s for roaring applause. Summer peaks bring queues, yet patience rewards you with mid-air flips and splashes that echo through history.
Climb the narrow steps for breathtaking panoramas: the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque minaret rises on one side, while Ottoman houses line the other. Cross at dawn to beat the crowds, as mist rises like a dream over the water. History buffs should note that the bridge survived Ottoman floods and Austro-Hungarian tweaks, but it fell to war shells in 1993. Reconstructed with 1,128 stones from the original quarry, it remains identical, even preserving the divers’ risky ritual. Pair your visit with a ćevapi lunch nearby, for the bridge is not just stone, it’s Mostar’s soul.
2. Explore Old Town Around Stari Most in Mostar
Wander the cobbled lanes of Mostar Old Town, a core thing to do in Mostar that immerses you fully. This UNESCO zone pulses with coppersmiths hammering trays, women baking somun bread, and silk scarves fluttering like flags in the breeze. The Ottoman layout shines through: narrow alleys funnel straight to the bridge, which once served as a Silk Road pitstop linking Dubrovnik and Sarajevo.
Start your exploration at the Old Bazaar (Čaršija), buzzing since the 16th century with life and commerce. Sniff the sweet aroma of baklava from Ali Rifat bakery, haggle for lamps that once lit sultans’ courts, and step into the Turkish House museum to reveal harem life: upper floors for men, lower for women, with fountains for ablutions. Nearby, the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque from 1617 offers minaret climbs for €2, delivering views that rival those in Istanbul.
War scars add a gritty authenticity: bullet-pocked facades remind visitors of the 1992-95 siege, when snipers ruled the rooftops. Yet regeneration thrives, as Croatian west meets Bosniak east right at the bridge. A hidden gem awaits in the Karađoz Bey Mosque, possibly dating to 1357. Dive deeper with a coffee at Orient Express, where locals debate politics like old poets. This Old Town is no mere tourist trap; it is a time machine where history hugs you close.
Spend hours here: mornings offer quiet reflection, while evenings bring lights dancing on the Neretva. Wear grippy shoes as a pro tip, for cobblestones grow slick after rain. Among the top things to do in Mostar, this exploration fuels all your senses.
3. Visit Fortica Skywalk Mostar
For raw history, head to the War Photo Exhibition, one of the most poignant things to do in Mostar. A New Zealand photographer runs this attic gallery above the bridge, where walls display unfiltered 1990s siege shots: bombed markets, child soldiers, and the bridge’s final moments captured forever.
Mostar’s siege from 1992 to 1993 killed thousands, as Croats shelled Bosniak east for 18 months, displacing 60,000 people. Tanks rolled over minarets, but survivors rebuilt from the ashes. The exhibits hit hard with no glorification, just raw humanity amid horror. Entry costs €6, and you should linger for two hours as the stories unfold before your eyes.
Extend your visit to the Fortress (Krupa or Šantić), perched high above for stunning 360-degree vistas: the Neretva snakes below, Velež peaks loom in the distance. This Austro-Hungarian relic from 1892 traces Ottoman roots to 15th-century watchtowers that guarded caravans. Hike 20 minutes up slippery paths, and the reward is an epic sunset. Legend whispers of ghosts of defenders in the winds. Combine these for a morning of deep reflection, perfect among things to do in Mostar.
4. Visit Blagaj Tekke Near Mostar
Escape to Blagaj Tekke, 12km from Mostar, a mystical thing to do in Mostar that day-trippers adore. This 16th-century Dervish monastery clings to a sheer cliff, where the Buna River gushes 200 liters per second from Europe’s largest karst spring. Ottomans built it for the Bektashi order sufis; Sari Saltuk, a holy man, allegedly flew here on a bull according to legend.
Enter the wooden lodge, where low ceilings and murmuring fountains evoke prayers. Feel the refreshing spray as the river roars below, nature’s raw power meets spiritual hush. Inside, tombstones of dervishes stand silently; outside, a trout farm offers fresh lunch. Built post-1466 conquest, it endured floods and wars, with a recent restoration preserving its essence.
Hike the source trail for 30 minutes to reach emerald pools, where brave swimmers plunge into icy depths. Visit pre-dawn for the best experience, as mist veils the tekke like a fairy tale. Taxis cost €15 roundtrip, and buses run in summer. This serene escape contrasts Mostar’s buzz, topping things to do in Mostar for soul-searchers.
5. Day Trip to Kravice Waterfalls from Mostar
Cool off at Kravica Waterfalls, the ultimate adventure among things to do in Mostar. Located 40km south, 30-meter cascades tumble into turquoise pools amid forests reminiscent of Plitvice. Formed by the Trebižat River, it stands as Bosnia’s hidden gem, far less crowded than Croatia’s famous stars.
Arrive by minivan tour for €25 including entry, it takes one hour from Mostar. Rope swing into 8°C waters, try cliff jumps, or zipline over the falls for thrills. BBQ spots sizzle with pljeskavica, and a ropes course adds extra excitement. Open from May to October, peak July brings crowds, but weekdays stay quiet. Karst magic from post-Ice Age formations shapes its stunning tiers.
History ties back to Ottoman picnics in the area; now locals raft below the falls. Swim to the “room of echoes” and shout for fun replies that bounce back. Catch sunset during golden hour for pure magic. Return by dusk with tales buzzing in your mind. This caps your 5 things to do in Mostar with nature’s mighty roar.
Practical Tips for Your Things to Do in Mostar
The best time to plan your things to do in Mostar is during spring from April to June or in the fall, when temperatures hover around a mild 20°C and crowds thin out nicely. Summer draws masses for the bridge jumps, while winter sees bridges ice over, making walks treacherous. Fly into Sarajevo or Split airports, then take a bus to Mostar, which takes 2-3 hours depending on traffic.
Stay central in the Old Town area for convenience: hostels cost €20 per night, while boutique hotels run €80 and offer more comfort. Start your days with burek for breakfast and end with a hearty evening grill of ćevapi or pljeskavica. Use the local currency BAM, but note that cards work spotty in smaller shops. Safety feels fine post-war, yet always respect the cultural divides, west side leans Catholic, east Islamic.
Craft a smart day plan to maximize your things to do in Mostar: hit the bridge in the morning, enjoy Old Town lunch, hike the fortress in the afternoon, and visit Blagaj in the evening. Save Kravica for the next full day. Budget around €50 per day excluding lodging, covering entries at €10-20, transport at €20, and food at €20. Pack light layers, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles, as public fountains provide fresh Neretva water. If driving, park outside the Old Town to avoid narrow streets.
FAQ: Common Questions on Things to Do in Mostar
Is Stari Most safe for diving watchers?
Yes, barriers protect crowds from falls, and divers are trained professionals. Watch from the bridge ends for the best views.
How long does it take for all 5 things to do in Mostar?
It takes 2-3 days ideally to enjoy all 5 things to do in Mostar without rushing; one hectic day works with early starts.
What is the best time for Kravice from Mostar?
The best time for Kravice from Mostar is May through September, especially mornings to avoid heat and crowds.
What is the Blagaj Tekke dress code?
The Blagaj Tekke dress code requires modest clothing, cover shoulders and knees, and maintain respectful silence inside.
Are war sites respectful to visit?
Yes, war sites prove respectful to visit, as exhibitions focus on education and reconciliation efforts.
What is the cost for things to do in Mostar?
The cost for things to do in Mostar ranges €50-100 per person: entries €10-20, transport €20, food €20.
Our Most Popular Tours To Sarajevo
We offer many tours that include a visit to Sarajevo and its most popular locations:
- Full Day tour from Sarajevo to Belgrade (Most Popular)
- Full Day tour from Sarajevo to Međugorije & Mostar
- Full Day Tour from Sarajevo to Travnik and Jajce
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