Mostar, Bosnia is a great day trip for anyone staying in the region! Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in a city that isn’t packed with tourists. It’s just a 2 1/2 hour drive from Sibenik or Dubrovnik, so rent a car and go watch the Mostar bridge jump!
What to Do in Mostar
The city is named for the bridge keepers (mostari), and you can see why! The Stari Most (Old Bridge) over the Neretva river is a remarkable piece of architecture.
Built in the 1500s during the Ottoman Empire’s rule, Mostar Bridge stood for nearly 5 centuries until it was destroyed during the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Reconstruction completed in the early 2000s to replicate the original design as closely as possible.
Today, the bridge connects the Eastern and Western parts of the city. And it’s also a bit metaphorical: the city’s population is almost half Bosnian Croats and half Bosnian Muslims (Bosniaks).
If you’re seeking a thrill, join the bridge jumpers (also called “divers”)! Depending on the water level, the Stari Most Mostar is approximately 20 meters high (65 feet). And if you visit in July, you can attend the annual Stari Most diving competition!
But if jumping off bridges isn’t your thing, you can just enjoy the view. Or you can explore the market alleys and visit the shops.
What to Eat in Mostar
When you decide to sit down for lunch, we recommend trying the cevapi!
You can find variations of these grilled meat sausages throughout Eastern Europe. In Mostar, locals eat them with sliced onions, yogurt sauce, and flat bread. Simple yet delicious!
And if you’re looking for a restaurant with a great view, stop by Terrace Lagero. Their patio overlooks the Neretva and the bridge.
Ready for the Mostar Bridge Jump?
If you want to shake up your Croatian itinerary, spend a day in Mostar! You won’t regret visiting this gem of a city.
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