When you’re in Dubrovnik, you’ll have many day trip opportunities at your disposal. While Dubrovnik is aboslutely stunning and worth exploring, which we suggest you do, it’s always good idea to enrich your vacation in Dubrovnik with one of the day trips that leave this magical city each day.
It’s up to you to choose which one is best for you, and this article will be all about Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip. We’ll discuss why you should consider visiting Mostar in the first place, how far away is it from Dubrovnik, what to see along the way, best ways to reach Mostar from Dubrovnik, and so on.
Let’s venture into one of the most famous cities of Bosnia and Herzegovina together.
Why Visit Mostar? The city of Mostar is located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina and it’s Old Bridge is UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout the year, we travel to Mostar in many occasions, usually to explore the city and its surroundings. The Old Part of Mostar is a place you must visit while traveling through this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Dubrovnik is not so far away, and many people choose to do Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip and visit best places of the city as well as some attractions along the way such as Počitelj, Kravice Waterfalls, Tekija on Buna River, and similar.
Here’s why Mostar is worth the trip:
Historical Significance : Mostar has a rich Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav history which is easily visible in its architecture and culture. Stari Most (Old Bridge) : This 16th-century Ottoman bridge, reconstructed after being destroyed in the 1990s, is a most famous and most visited part of Mostar. All the best restaurants and shops can be found right here, on the bridge that crosses the mighty Neretva River and connects 2 sides of Mostar.Multicultural Atmosphere : Mostar is an unique blend of Eastern and Western influences, with mosques, churches, and synagogues sharing their respective parts of the city.Scenic Beauty : The blue waters of the Neretva River and the surrounding mountains like Velež and Prenj create a stunning backdrop around the city.Authentic Cuisine : Finally, Bosnia and Herzegovina is famous for its gastro delicacies. We suggest you try local specialties like ćevapi (grilled meat), burek (filled pastries), and baklava. When paired with traditional Bosnian coffee, these make a combination that will make your taste buds go dance.
How to Get from Dubrovnik to Mostar We mentioned just a few main reasons why you should visit Mostar. Let’s talk about how to get there. Mostar is located around 130 kilometers (81 miles) away from Dubrovnik. The trip takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on your choice of transportation and how much time you’l spend in exploration of places along the way.
1. By Car Driving is one of the most convenient ways to reach Mostar, and it offers you flexibility to explore on your own and at your own pace.
Route :
Take the D8 coastal road towards Metković and then cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Follow signs for Mostar via the E73/M17 road.
You will pass through the Neretva River Valley so we suggest you visit it along the way. Neretva River will follow you all the way as until you reach Mostar.
Tips :
Don’t forget your passport for border checks.
Make sure your car rental includes cross-border permissions.
Parking :
Parking is available near the Old Town and Stari Most, often for a small fee. Also, there are parking spots all around the city.
2. By Bus Buses are a cost-effective and popular option for many travelers, although there are not as much bus lines connecting Dubrovnik and Mostar, especially during the preseason and postseason periods.
Duration : The bus trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar takes about 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on the road conditions.Departure Points : All buses leave from Dubrovnik’s main bus station which is located in Gruž.Tips :
Book tickets in advance during peak season since the spots in buses book relatively quickly.
Bring snacks and water, as stops are usually very limited. There might be only one stop during the whole trip to Mostar.
3. By Guided Tour Finally, we come to guided Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip which is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a stress-free experience. Most of these tours visit other famous locations along the way, such as Počitelj or Kravice Waterfalls, so make sure you book a right tour for you, based on your interests.
Benefits :
Transportation, entry fees, and a knowledgeable guide are usually included in these day trips rom Dubrovnik to Mostar.
Tours often combine Mostar with other attractions, such as Kravice Waterfalls or Počitelj.
Our recommendation of Dubrovnik to Mostar day trips
What to Do in Mostar Once you arrive in Mostar, there are few places that you need to visit and that are on a itinerary of every traveler visiting Mostar. If you’re visiting through a guided tour, then most of these places will already be included in the itinerary, and a tour guide will tell you all you need to know about them.
1. Visit Stari Most (Old Bridge)
Why It’s Famous : Built by the Ottomans in the 16th century, this bridge is the symbol of Mostar and one of the usual images you will see when researching about Mostar online.What to Do :
Watch local divers jump into the Neretva River for a small fee—a longstanding tradition.
Take photos of the bridge from different angles, especially from the riverside.
Try local food in one of the many restaurants you can find in this area.
2. Explore the Old Bazaar (Kujundžiluk)
Highlights :
Narrow stone streets full of shops selling handmade crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
Perfect for finding unique gifts and experiencing the local market atmosphere characteristic for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
3. Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
What to Expect :
Climb the minaret of this mosque for panoramic views of Mostar and the Neretva River.
Explore and relax in serene courtyard and Ottoman-style architecture.
Entry Fee : Around 5 EUR.
4. Learn History at the Museum of War and Genocide Victims
Why Visit : Gain insight into Bosnia and Herzegovina’s recent history through personal testimonials and exhibits.Tip : The content can be heavy for some people, but it presents important part of understanding the region through the times.
5. Sample Local Cuisine
Top Dishes to Try in Mostar :
Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat served with pita bread (somun) and onions.
Burek: A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or other ingredients.
Baklava: A sweet, layered pastry filled with nuts and syrup.
Where to Eat :
Šadrvan: A traditional restaurant offering outdoor seating and authentic dishes.
Hindin Han: Known for its riverfront views and traditional meals.
Our suggestion of activities to try during your visit to Mostar
Additional Stops on the Way This section is only for those who plan to go from Dubrovnik to Mostar by car because only that option allows you to visit some of the places along the way. We will just name few of them and if you’re going to book Dubrovnik to Mostar Day trip, some of these will usually be on the itinerary.
1. Kravice Waterfalls Kravice Waterfalls are one of the most famous waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located close to the cities of Ljubuški and Čapljina. We suggest you visit this place if you’re traveling from Dubrovnik to Mostar by your car. Also, most of the day trips to Mostar include a visit to this stunning place.
Distance : About 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Mostar.Highlights :
Swim in unique ambient of waterfalls made by Trebižat River.
Enjoy a boat or kayak ride or relax at the nearby cafes and restaurants.
Tour Option : Many Dubrovnik to Mostar day trips include a stop at Kravice.
2. Počitelj Počitelj is yet another popular place on the route to Mostar. It’s an old town famous for its preserved old buildings that date to medieval times. It’s located on the main road toward the Mostar and it has to be your stop if you’re passing by.
Why Visit : This Ottoman-era village features a fortress, stone houses, and narrow streets.What to Do :
Climb to the top of the fortress for the best panoramic views of Počitelj area.
Visit the Hajji Alija Mosque and Sahat Tower.
Drink a Bosnian coffee at one of the cafes in Počitelj.
3. Neretva Valley and Baćina Lakes
If you’re traveling from Dubrovnik to Mostar, you will partly pass through the Neretva River Valley . Neretva River has it’s source in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but ends in Adriatic sea near the city of Ploče . It’s famous for many things, including local dishes such as frog and eel specialities. Baćina Lakes is a lakes group located just 15 minutes of driving away from Neretva River Delta and it’s a good idea to combine the visit to both of these places.
Why Visit : One of the most unique landscapes of Dalmatian coast, this valley is often nicknamed as the ‘Croatian California’.What to Do :
Visit the Neretva River Mouth and enjoy in observing kitesurfers.
Try some of the local foods.
Visit the Roman Museum in Vid (Narona).
4. Ston
The town of Ston is another famous location in southern Croatia and there are many day trips from Dubrovnik to Ston as well. If you’re interested in local foods such as oysters, or keen on exploring one of the most famous wine regions of Croatia, then Ston is a must-visit place for you.
Why Visit : Ston is famous place known for its walls, ancient saltworks still working today, and oysters.What to Do :
Explore and climb the Ston walls.
Visit famous Ston saltworks and learn how the salt is produced using the traditional methods.
Try Ston oysters in one of the local restaurants.
Tips for a Successful Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip You’re almost ready to go, just few more quick tips that will make your Dubrovnik to Mostar day trip even better.
Start Early : Leave from Dubrovnik early in the morning so you have plenty of time to explore Mostar and nearby attractions.Carry Cash : While Euros are often accepted in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the local currency (Bosnian Convertible Mark) is recommended for small purchases.Dress Comfortably : Wear proper shoes for walking on stone streets and bring layers for changing weather. Check the forecast to see what to expect on a day of your visit. Mostar is known for high temperatures during summer, so make sure to drink a lot of water and wear a hat.Plan for Border Crossings : Delays can occur on borders when visiting during summer, especially during peak season. Patience is key. Starting early is also a key.Book Tours in Advance : Guided tours are usually popular and with limited spaces so they can fill up quickly, especially in summer. Have this in mind if you want to book a guided tour from Dubrovnik to Mostar.
Is a Dubrovnik to Mostar Day Trip Worth It? Dubrovnik offers you a lot when it comes to day trips. Hundreds of these leave from Dubrovnik toward the different locations each day. Some of them go to Montenegro, some toward Pelješac and Ston, some to Mljet National Park , and some to Mostar . It’s up to you to explore each of these options and see which one fits your idea of a great day best. We hope this article gave you a clearer idea of what to expect out of Mostar.
Finally, we hope you’ll enjoy this city if you choose to visit it during your stay in Dubrovnik.
