I recently visited Mostar, the most popular Mediterranean city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I'm excited to share my impressions and photos from this stunning destination (technically in the Herzegovina region). I'll also offer some tips and advice for your trip. If you're planning to explore the Balkans, visiting Mostar is an excellent idea!
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| Mostar Bridge with view |
How to Get to Mostar
Mostar is well-connected to many cities in the Balkans. From Sarajevo, you can take one of the many buses that run every few hours (operated by Autoprevoz, Centrotrans, and Prevoz Putnika) or opt for the scenic train ride—there are two trains daily, and the tickets are very affordable. I highly recommend taking the train to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of the Neretva Valley.
If you're traveling from Croatia, Mostar is easily accessible from Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb, with a seasonal summer train available from Ploče. From Montenegro, there are buses to Mostar departing from Budva and Podgorica.
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| View from the Bridge |
What Does Mostar Look Like?
Mostar is a truly unique Mediterranean city with rich historical charm and a mix of architectural styles. The city's iconic landmark is Stari Most (the Old Bridge), which inspired the city's name (from "most," meaning bridge).
Mostar’s scenery is quintessentially Mediterranean, featuring low forests and plants like olive trees, palms, and ficuses. The city is surrounded by mountains, providing natural landmarks that make it easy to orient yourself wherever you go.
Things to See and Do in Mostar
Stari Most is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an absolute must-see. You might even catch locals diving from the bridge into the Neretva River. Another interesting spot is the Staklena Banka, an abandoned glass bank building that I found particularly fascinating. In Mostar Park, you'll come across a Bruce Lee statue, adding a quirky and unique touch to the city.
For stunning panoramic views, you can visit Fortica, a viewpoint overlooking the city. About 30 minutes from Mostar, there's the Dervish House, a peaceful and picturesque historic site that you can reach by bus from Gimnazija Mostar. Don't miss Spanish Square (Španski Trg) and Mostar Park, which are perfect spots to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Weather in Mostar
Summers in Mostar can be extremely hot, as it's the hottest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina—and often in the Balkans. Temperatures sometimes rival those in the hottest parts of Europe due to the geography and soil type. While snow rarely falls in the city itself, you can spot snowy peaks on nearby Velež Mountain during winter. If you're visiting during a heatwave, seek shade and stay hydrated. Winters are mild, with temperatures staying above freezing, though you may encounter the strong "bura" wind.
Can You Jump Off Stari Most?
Technically, jumping off the Old Bridge is not allowed, though some tourists still attempt it. Even for professionals, it's risky. You can connect with a local sports club to get properly trained if you're interested. Be cautious—strong winds under the bridge can disorient you, and the water temperature, even in summer, is around 12°C, which poses a risk of temperature shock.
Interesting Facts About Mostar
The Neretva River in Mostar is the coldest river in Europe. Mostar is the de facto capital of the Herzegovina region. The city is also home to one of the most beloved traditional Bosnian songs, "Emina," written by Aleksa Šantić.
Mostar combines rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of adventure, making it an unforgettable stop on your Balkan journey!
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