Overview
Mostar, in the heart of Herzegovina, is defined by its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a stunning Ottoman-era stone arch that spans the emerald Neretva River. The city’s cobblestoned old town, rebuilt after the devastating 1990s war, is a compelling blend of Ottoman bazaars, Mediterranean cafe culture, and poignant war history. As one of Europe’s most affordable destinations, Mostar delivers extraordinary value.
The Bosnian convertible mark (BAM) is the local currency, pegged to the euro at roughly 2 BAM = 1 EUR. Cash is preferred at many smaller establishments. The best time to visit is May through October for warm weather, though July and August bring peak crowds at the bridge. Spring and early autumn offer the best balance of weather, price, and crowd levels.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Budget ($30-$50/day): Stay in a hostel or family guesthouse ($12-$25/night), eat cevapi, burek, and local dishes ($5-$10/day), walk everywhere in the compact old town, and watch the famous bridge divers for free.
Mid-Range ($60-$100/day): Book a boutique hotel or pension with river views ($35-$70/night), dine at restaurants on the Neretva riverbank ($12-$25/day), visit museums like the War Photo Exhibition and Muslibegovic House ($3-$8 each), and take a day trip to Kravice Waterfalls ($15-$25 including transport).
Luxury ($130-$200+/day): Reserve a luxury hotel or restored Ottoman house ($100-$200/night), enjoy fine dining with local Herzegovinian wine ($30-$60/day), book private guided tours ($50-$100), and arrange excursions to Blagaj Tekke and Pocitelj ($40-$80).
How to Save Money in Mostar
- Eat cevapi (grilled meat sausages in bread) at local joints for $2-$4 — it is the national dish and unbelievably cheap.
- Walk everywhere — the old town and all major sights are within a 15-minute walk.
- Drink Bosnian coffee at traditional kafanas (coffee houses) for $1-$2 per cup.
- Stay in family-run pensions where hosts often offer homemade breakfast included.
- Visit the Old Bridge at sunrise or sunset for the best photos without the crowds.
Worth the Splurge
- A day trip to Kravice Waterfalls, a stunning natural swimming hole surrounded by cascading falls ($15-$25 total).
- Dinner on a riverside terrace with grilled trout and a bottle of local Blatina wine ($15-$25 per person).
- A guided war history tour to understand Mostar’s recent past and remarkable reconstruction ($20-$35).
- A visit to Blagaj Tekke, a mystical Dervish monastery built into a cliff at the source of the Buna River ($3 entrance).
