If you’re planning a trip along the Dalmatian coast and wondering how to venture inland to explore the cultural treasures of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the journey from Split to Mostar is an absolutely unmissable experience. Split, with its famous Diocletian’s Palace and Mediterranean charm, offers easy access to one of the most fascinating cities in the Balkans – Mostar, home to the iconic Stari Most and a rich tapestry of Ottoman heritage.
The distance between Split and Mostar is 140 kilometers, and the journey takes approximately two and a half to three hours, depending on your chosen mode of transportation. This route is far more than just a transfer between two cities – it’s an opportunity to witness the dramatic transformation of landscapes as you move from the Adriatic coast into the mountains and valleys of Herzegovina. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling from Split to Mostar, including transportation options, attractions along the way, and practical tips for making the most of your journey.
Table of Contents
How to Travel from Split to Mostar
When planning your trip from Split to Mostar, you have three primary transportation options, each offering distinct advantages depending on your preferences, budget, and travel style.
Bus from Split to Mostar – The Most Popular Option
The bus is undoubtedly the most popular and convenient way to travel from Split to Mostar. Several reliable bus companies operate this route daily, with numerous departures throughout the day, making it easy to find a departure time that suits your schedule.
The bus journey typically takes between two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken. The drive follows the scenic M-17 highway inland from the coast, and you’ll witness the gradual transition from Mediterranean vegetation to the mountainous terrain of Herzegovina.
The ticket price ranges from 12 to 18 euros per person, making it an affordable option for solo travelers and groups alike. Most buses are modern and comfortable, featuring air conditioning, spacious seating with the ability to recline, panoramic windows for optimal sightseeing, and onboard restrooms for longer journeys.
The main bus companies operating this route include FlixBus, which offers competitive pricing and frequent departures. Autoprevoz is another excellent option known for its comfort and reliability. Advance tickets can be purchased through various online platforms such as GetByBus, Flixbus, or directly at the Split Bus Station.
The Split Bus Station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible from accommodations and tourist attractions. Buses typically depart in the morning (starting around 6:00 AM) and continue throughout the day, with final departures in the evening around 8:00 PM. This flexibility allows you to plan your day in Split before heading to Mostar.
The Mostar Bus Station is located near the railway station, roughly a 15-minute walk from the old town and Stari Most. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the station to your accommodation, which typically costs 5 to 10 euros.
Driving from Split to Mostar – Freedom and Flexibility
If you prefer the independence of traveling at your own pace and have the opportunity to make stops along the way, renting a car and driving from Split to Mostar is an excellent choice. The 140-kilometer drive takes approximately two and a half to three hours of actual driving time, but the real advantage lies in your ability to explore at your leisure.
Car rental agencies are abundant in Split, offering competitive pricing and a wide range of vehicles. A one-day rental for a standard economy car typically costs between 40 and 70 euros, depending on the rental company and vehicle type. Major international companies like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar have offices at Split Airport and throughout the city, as well as numerous local companies offering equally competitive rates.
When renting a car, ensure you have a valid driver’s license (an International Driving Permit is recommended if your license is not in English), proof of insurance, and a credit card for the rental deposit. Most rental agreements include basic insurance, but carefully review the terms regarding liability and damage coverage.
The route from Split to Mostar primarily follows the M-17 highway, which is well-maintained and straightforward to navigate. The drive takes you inland from the coast, climbing gradually into the Herzegovina mountains. The landscape shifts dramatically from Mediterranean pine forests and olive groves to mountain villages and dramatic limestone peaks.
One of the major advantages of driving is the ability to stop at places that catch your interest. The town of Omiš, located about 25 kilometers from Split, is a picturesque village nestled between the Cetina River and dramatic mountain cliffs. The river is famous for activities like rafting and canyoning, and there are several excellent restaurants where you can enjoy lunch before continuing toward Mostar.
Another worthwhile stop is Imotski, a charming town known for its natural beauty. The town is famous for the Imotski Lakes – two stunning crater lakes with water so clear you can see to considerable depths. The Blue Lake (Modro jezero) and the Red Lake (Crveno jezero) are natural phenomena created by limestone dissolution. If you have time, a short visit to see these lakes is worthwhile, adding only 20 to 30 minutes to your journey.
The drive through the Neretva Valley as you approach Mostar is particularly scenic, with the emerald-green Neretva River winding through the landscape. This valley is known for its agricultural heritage and traditional way of life.
Private Transfer from Split to Mostar
If you’re traveling with family or prefer not to drive yourself, a private transfer from Split to Mostar is a convenient option. These door-to-door services typically cost around 100 to 150 euros for the vehicle (not per person), making them economical for groups of three or more people.
Train from Split to Mostar – A Scenic but Less Frequent Option
While a train connection exists between Split to Mostar, it’s considerably less convenient than bus or car travel. The train journey is longer, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours, and departures are less frequent, typically only one or two trains per day. The ticket price is comparable to the bus at around 12 to 16 euros, but the extended travel time makes it less practical for most travelers.
However, if you enjoy train travel and have flexible scheduling, the train journey offers beautiful scenery and a more relaxed pace. The train passes through some stunning landscapes and smaller towns that you might miss when traveling by highway.
Attractions and Stops on the Route from Split to Mostar
Omiš, located approximately 25 kilometers from Split, is a picturesque town at the mouth of the Cetina River where it flows into the Adriatic Sea, framed by high limestone cliffs. The town has a rich medieval history and is now known for outdoor activities like rafting and canyoning on the Cetina River. Medieval fortresses such as Mirabella and Peovica offer views over the river valley. The Cetina River is perfect for rafting, with tours starting from around 30 euros per person. Visiting Omiš adds approximately 30 to 45 minutes to your journey but provides a worthwhile experience of Dalmatian heritage.
Imotski, roughly 60 kilometers from Split, is famous for its two spectacular crater lakes – the Blue Lake (Modro jezero) and the Red Lake (Crveno jezero). The Blue Lake features the deepest waters and most vivid turquoise color, formed when limestone bedrock dissolved over time. A small entrance fee of around 2 to 3 euros grants access to viewing platforms. If you’re driving, Imotski requires a 20 to 30-minute detour off the main M-17 highway but offers spectacular natural attractions and excellent photography opportunities.
The Neretva Valley, encountered as you approach Mostar, features the emerald-green Neretva River famous for its striking mineral-influenced color. The valley is characterized by lush vegetation, traditional villages, and dramatic mountain peaks. It’s one of Bosnia’s most agriculturally important regions, known for citrus fruits and tobacco cultivation. The landscape is dotted with traditional stone houses and fields cultivated for centuries. Spring is the most beautiful season when wildflowers bloom and everything is lush and green.
Dining Options Along the Route From Split to Mostar
Restaurants in Omiš
Konoba Joskan (Knezova Kačića 11, Omiš) is one of the finest dining establishments in the region, renowned for authentic Dalmatian cuisine. The restaurant specializes in grilled specialties, particularly fresh fish like sea bass (brancin) and gilt-head bream (orada), prepared on an open fire grill in traditional Dalmatian style. Prices are reasonable – grilled sea bass costs around 11.50 euros, raznjići (grilled meat skewers) around 9.30 euros, and a portion of fries approximately 3 euros. The baked tiramisu, priced at 4 euros, makes for an excellent dessert. Operating hours are 12:00–24:00, closed on Sundays. Reservations are recommended at +385 (0)91 596 1009.
Kaštil Slanica (Franja Josipa 1, Podašpilje – Omiš) is located in the heart of the Cetina Canyon at the site of a medieval salt trading post from the 16th century. This restaurant is known for bread baked under a traditional peka (baking dome), frogs, scampi, drunken octopus, and other local specialties. Meat, fish, and octopus are roasted in an open peka, giving unique authentic flavors. The restaurant has been in the same family for over 250 years, dating back to 1754. Meal prices range between 12 and 18 euros.
Aga Restaurant is situated with views over the Cetina River and is known for fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. It offers vegetarian options and various fish preparations. Meal prices typically range between 12 and 18 euros.
Restaurants in Imotski
Restoran Tri Sunca (50 meters from Modro jezero in central Imotski, Emotheo Hotel) is a modern restaurant serving authentic Imotski cuisine. Specialties include ušćipak (traditional appetizer), pašticada (meat in wine and vinegar sauce), veal tongue with celery root, and homemade gnocchi, as well as grilled dishes. The restaurant features an excellent curated selection of local wines, particularly from Grabovac vineyard. The owners pay meticulous attention to detail, and each dish comes with a story. Meal prices range between 14 and 20 euros.
Agroturizam Grabovci (Proložac Gornji, Proloških Iseljenika 24, 8.5 km from Modro jezero) is a family-run agricultural estate offering authentic Imotski cuisine prepared using traditional recipes. Specialties include peka (baking dome cooking) and lešo pivac (meat with mash). Their signature dessert is Kolač Padišpanj – a fluffy cake filled with walnuts and fragrant spices. Homemade wines are excellent. The restaurant is open Tuesday through Sunday, 12:00–21:30. Prices are affordable, ranging between 10 and 15 euros for a basic meal. Reservations are essential. Phone: +385 (0)92 290 3311.
Restaurants in the Neretva Valley
Villa Neretva (Metković, Krvavac 2) is situated in the heart of the Neretva Valley on the main Dubrovnik-Split-Mostar highway. This prestigious restaurant is renowned for authentic Neretva and Dalmatian specialties. Their specialty is brodeta (fish stew), jelske praje (mixed fish and seafood), and various grilled fish preparations. The restaurant features an extensive selection of premium Croatian wines. As an additional attraction, the owner Pavo Jerković offers photo tourism through the Neretva Valley aboard authentic wooden boats, some over 120 years old, allowing you to see the flora, fauna, and traditions of the valley. The staff are dressed in traditional clothing. Meal prices range between 15 and 25 euros. Phone: 020 672 200.
Planning Your Journey From Split to Mostar: Timing and Strategies
The journey from Split to Mostar can be undertaken at any time of day, but certain times offer advantages. Early morning departures from Split allow you to spend most of the day in Mostar upon arrival. If you take an early bus (around 7:00 AM), you’ll arrive in Mostar by mid-morning, giving you the entire afternoon and evening to explore.
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal travel conditions with pleasant temperatures and generally clear skies. Summer can be very hot, especially at lower elevations near Split, with temperatures sometimes reaching 35-40 degrees Celsius. If you’re traveling in summer, consider early morning departures to avoid the hottest part of the day and travel during cooler hours.
Winter travel is generally safe, though occasional rain and snow at higher elevations may affect road conditions. Always check weather forecasts before traveling, particularly if you’re planning to drive.
Book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak summer months (June-August), as buses can fill up quickly. Online booking often provides small discounts compared to purchasing tickets immediately before departure. For car rentals, advance booking typically offers better rates than day-of reservations.
If you’re driving, ensure you have sufficient fuel before leaving Split. Gas stations are available along the M-17 highway, but it’s prudent to start with a full tank. Keep your travel documents (driver’s license, passport, rental agreement) easily accessible.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to travel from Split to Mostar?
The journey typically takes between two and a half to three hours of actual travel time. The exact duration depends on traffic conditions, your specific route, and any stops you make along the way.
Can I make stops along the way if I’m traveling by bus?
Standard bus services don’t typically allow stops for sightseeing. However, some tour companies offer guided trips from Split to Mostar with stops in Omiš or other locations. These cost slightly more (around 25-35 euros) but include guided commentary and planned stops.
Are there luggage storage options in Split if I want to explore the city before leaving?
Yes, the Split Bus Station has luggage storage facilities where you can leave your bags for a small fee (usually 2-3 euros per item per day). Many hotels also offer luggage storage even after checkout if you’re leaving later in the day.
Is the road from Split to Mostar safe to drive?
Yes, the M-17 highway is well-maintained, clearly marked, and generally safe. Traffic can be heavy during peak summer months, particularly near Split. Driving standards are generally acceptable, though some drivers may drive faster than comfortable for unfamiliar drivers. Always follow speed limits and exercise caution, particularly on winding mountain sections.
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
- Full-Day 5 Cities Tour from Sarajevo to Herzegovina (Mostar)
- Full day Tour from Sarajevo to Dubrovnik (Kotor or Split)
Don’t Hesitate To Say Hi!
Got any questions about our tours or the city? Don’t hesitate to contact us anytime for more info and booking.
Use the following phone number and email: