Mostar
Mostar
Mostar is a stunning city in Bosnia and Herzegovina that's famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). This impressive 16th-century Ottoman bridge spans the emerald waters of the Neretva River and connects the two sides of the city. The bridge was sadly destroyed during the Bosnian War in the 1990s but has since been meticulously reconstructed and now stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation.
The cobblestone streets of Mostar's old town are lined with traditional stone houses, lively cafes, and shops selling handcrafted copper items and colorful textiles. The call to prayer echoes through the narrow streets, mixing with the sounds of local musicians and the chatter of visitors exploring the historic bazaar.
One of Mostar's unique traditions involves local divers who leap from the Old Bridge into the cold river below. This daring practice dates back centuries and has become a popular attraction. If you're lucky, you might witness these brave souls performing their spectacular 24-meter jumps.
Beyond its beauty, Mostar carries a complex history. The city still bears visible scars from the 1990s conflict, with some buildings deliberately left in ruins as a reminder of the war. Yet despite this painful past, Mostar today offers visitors a blend of cultures and religions that reflects its position at the crossroads of East and West.
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Things to do in Mostar
Top things to do in Mostar by theculturetrip.com
Where to stay in Mostar
Best hotels in Mostar:
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Hotel Bristol (budget hotel)
Hotel Bristol sits right by the Neretva River in Mostar, just a 15-minute stroll from the famous Old Bridge. The location is perfect—close to both the train station and the historic center, with plenty of restaurants nearby. My room had big windows with views of the flowing river, making morning coffee on the balcony something special.
The breakfast here is a standout feature with lots of local and international options. The restaurant also serves great food throughout the day with amazing river views that make dinner feel extra special. All the rooms have air conditioning (a must in Mostar summers), comfy beds, and free WiFi that actually works well. If you're looking for a convenient, comfortable spot that puts you within easy reach of everything Mostar has to offer, this place hits the mark.
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Hotel Mepas (luxury hotel)
Hotel Mepas is in the center of Mostar, easy to explore from here. The rooms are large with comfy beds and bathrooms with tubs and showers. The hotel is connected to a shopping center with a cinema, bowling, and many places to eat. The Old Bridge is about a 15-minute walk away.
Extras include an indoor pool and a spa with saunas and steam rooms. Breakfast is highly praised. The staff are friendly, and there’s free garage parking. For the quality and location, the prices are reasonable compared to other European cities.
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City Hotel Mostar (medium range hotel)
City Hotel Mostar is a great choice for visiting Mostar. It’s in a quiet neighborhood, just a short walk from the famous Old Bridge and other historic sites.
The rooms are spacious, modern, and comfortable with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and mini-bars. The bathrooms have strong water pressure, which guests love. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi and free garage parking, and breakfast is included with good reviews.
The staff are friendly, available 24/7, and helpful. They can also arrange trips to nearby attractions. Plus, there are restaurants, shops, and bars in the same building, making it very convenient for your stay.
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Best hostels in Mostar:
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Hostel Hercegovina (hostel)
Hostel Hercegovina is in the center of Mostar, just a 10-minute walk from the Old Bridge and 15 minutes from the bus station. It’s close to shops, restaurants, and sights but away from noisy tourist spots. The rooftop terrace has great views and is perfect to relax.
The rooms are clean and comfortable with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and small kitchenettes. The friendly staff go out of their way to help. There’s a shared kitchen and cozy common areas to meet other travelers. Plus, there might be kittens around!
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Hostel David (party hostel)
Hostel David in Mostar is a friendly place near the Old Bridge and main sights, all within walking distance. It has a nice outdoor terrace to meet other travelers and even serves draft beer.
The rooms are clean and comfortable with air conditioning, offering 6-bed and 8-bed dorms. The staff—David, his dad, and Tarek—are very helpful and can give local tips or arrange day trips. Plus, the hostel has two cute cats living there!