Mostar
· BA

Mostar

Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Federation of, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Mostar: Where East Meets West on a Bridge of Stone Nestled in a sun-drenched valley of Herzegovina, Mostar is a city where centuries collide. Famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a graceful arch spanning the t…

#Historic city#Cultural heritage#Stari Most bridge#Old town#Balkan architecture
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Mostar.

Top Hotels in Mostar

Top Flights to Mostar

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Mostar.

Tours

Old Bridge (Stari Most)

The most iconic landmark in Mostar, known for its stunning Ottoman architecture and as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Blagaj Tekke

A beautiful Dervish monastery located at the source of the Buna river, blending spirituality and scenic beauty.

Mostar Peace Bell Tower

An iconic tower offering panoramic views of Mostar and surroundings. A symbol of peace.

Vrelo Bune

The natural spring of the Buna river, known for its tranquil beauty and the nearby historical Tekke.

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

An important cultural and architectural landmark, offering stunning views from its minaret.

Shopping

Old Bazar Kujundžiluk

A traditional bazaar offering a unique shopping experience with local crafts and souvenirs.

Shopping Mall Mepas

Mostar's largest shopping mall offering a wide range of shops, entertainment, and dining options.

Outdoor

Kravice Waterfalls

A stunning set of natural waterfalls, perfect for a day trip and outdoor adventure.

Neretva River Rafting

Experience the thrill of rafting on the Neretva river surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

Mount Velež Hiking

Take a hike to Mount Velež and enjoy the stunning panorama of this picturesque region.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Mostar.

Currency
KM | BAM | Bosnia and Herzegovina convertible mark
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina is around 105,000.
Languages
Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian, Montenegrin
Average weather
Mostar
Jan
rain
9°1°
Feb
rain
11°2°
Mar
cloud
15°4°
Apr
sun
19°7°
May
sun
24°11°
Jun
hot
29°15°
Jul
hot
32°18°
Aug
hot
32°18°
Sep
sun
27°14°
Oct
cloud
20°10°
Nov
rain
14°6°
Dec
rain
10°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Mostar.

What people love

Traveling to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a unique and culturally rich experience. Some of the pros of visiting Mostar include:

  1. Historic Old Bridge (Stari Most): Mostar is famous for its iconic Old Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bridge is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture and offers great photo opportunities.

  2. Rich Cultural Heritage: Mostar is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav periods. This diversity is reflected in the city's architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

  3. Scenic Views: Mostar is situated in a picturesque setting, surrounded by mountains and the Neretva River. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from various viewpoints.

  4. Traditional Bosnian Cuisine: Mostar offers a variety of delicious Bosnian dishes, including cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (savory pastry), and baklava (sweet pastry). Foodies will appreciate the authentic flavors of the region.

  5. Warm Hospitality: Visitors to Mostar often praise the warm and welcoming attitude of the locals. The hospitality of the Bosnian people adds to the overall positive experience of exploring the city.

  6. Affordable Destination: Compared to other European cities, Mostar is relatively affordable, making it an attractive destination for budget travelers. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced.

  7. Day Trips: Mostar is a great base for exploring other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, such as Sarajevo, Blagaj, and Kravice Waterfalls. This allows visitors to see more of the country's diverse landscapes and historical sites.

Overall, visiting Mostar provides a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a rewarding destination for travelers seeking an authentic and memorable experience.

I hope you find this information helpful for planning your trip to Mostar!

What to know

Traveling to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a wonderful experience, but there are some potential cons to be aware of. Here are some detailed points to consider:

  1. Crowds: Mostar is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak summer months. This can lead to crowded streets, attractions, and restaurants, which may take away from the overall experience of the city.

  2. High Prices: Due to its popularity among tourists, prices in Mostar can be higher compared to other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Accommodation, dining, and touristic activities may be more expensive than in other less-visited areas.

  3. Over-tourism: The influx of tourists in Mostar has put a strain on the city's infrastructure and local resources. Over-tourism can lead to environmental degradation, increased waste generation, and disruption to the daily lives of residents.

  4. Political Tensions: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a complex political situation, with tensions existing between different ethnic groups. While Mostar itself is relatively safe for tourists, it's important to be aware of the country's political history and current situation.

  5. Language Barrier: While many locals in Mostar speak English, the official languages in Bosnia and Herzegovina are Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian. Travelers who do not speak any of these languages may encounter some communication challenges.

  6. Infrastructure: Some parts of Mostar may have inadequate infrastructure, especially in more remote areas. This could impact the quality of accommodations, transportation options, and overall comfort during your visit.

  7. Weather Extremes: Mostar experiences hot summers and cold winters. Travelers should be prepared for extreme weather conditions depending on the time of year they visit.

Overall, while Mostar is a beautiful and historically rich destination, travelers should be mindful of these potential cons to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Mostar is a city located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, within the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated on the Neretva River and is the largest and most significant city in the Herzegovina region.

Early History

  • Medieval Period: Mostar's earliest mention in historical documents dates back to 1452. It was a small settlement in the medieval period, part of the region known as Hum, which was occasionally under the influence of various medieval states.

Ottoman Era

  • Conquest and Development: Mostar was conquered by the Ottoman Empire in 1468. The Ottomans significantly influenced the city's development, architecture, and culture.
  • Stari Most (Old Bridge): Built in 1566 by the Ottomans, the iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most) was designed by the architect Mimar Hayruddin. It became a symbol of Mostar and stood as a masterpiece of Ottoman engineering.

Austro-Hungarian Period

  • Annexation: Following the decline of Ottoman power, Mostar, along with the rest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, was occupied by Austro-Hungarian forces in 1878 and formally annexed in 1908. This period introduced Central European architectural styles and further urban development.

20th Century

  • Yugoslav Period: After World War I, Mostar became part of the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia). It remained under Yugoslav governance until the collapse of Yugoslavia in the 1990s.
  • World War II: During the war, Mostar was part of the Independent State of Croatia, a Nazi puppet state. The city faced occupation and resistance movements.

Bosnian War

  • Conflict and Destruction: During the Bosnian War (1992-1995), Mostar experienced significant ethnic conflict, primarily between Bosniaks and Croats. The city suffered extensive damage, including the destruction of the Old Bridge in 1993.
  • Reconstruction: After the war, Mostar became part of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Old Bridge was reconstructed and reopened in 2004, symbolizing reconciliation and peace. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.

Modern Era

  • Cultural Significance: Today, Mostar is a cultural and tourist hub known for its historic architecture, diverse cultural heritage, and the annual diving competition from the Old Bridge.
  • Economic and Social Development: The city continues to rebuild and develop economically and socially, fostering multicultural coexistence.

Notable Figures

  • Aleksa Šantić: A celebrated poet from Mostar, known for his contributions to Serbo-Croatian literature and his role in promoting cultural unity.
  • Džemal Bijedić: A prominent Yugoslav politician who served as the Prime Minister of Yugoslavia from 1971 until his death in 1977.

Important Landmarks

  • Stari Most (Old Bridge): The iconic symbol of Mostar and a testament to Ottoman architecture.
  • Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque: A significant mosque offering panoramic views of Mostar.
  • Biscevic House: A well-preserved example of an Ottoman residential house, now a museum.

Mostar remains a city of historical significance and cultural diversity, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its rich history and beautiful landscapes.