Top 5 Things to See in Mostar

I love the Balkans. To me, it is the western variation of Southeast Asia - cultural, vibrant and exceptionally full of life. It was in this region that I learned to immerse in the sights and sounds presented before me and just to explore freely.

The sweetest reminiscence I have of this region is the emerald green river flowing through Mostar. As one of the most ethnically diverse city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is rich in culture and in history. This former war-torn city has undergone extensive restoration to be reinstated as the beautiful destination that it is today.

Read also: Must-Try Local Bosnian Food

Top 5 Things to See in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

I arrived at the Old Town of Mostar misty-eyed and sentimental. How can a place be this beautiful?

Just days ago, I witnessed the bluest of seas and earth's most beautiful stretch of mountains as I traveled across Greece, Albania and Montenegro. Being able to experience all of Balkans' raw, undisguised beauty will forever remain as my life's best adventure.

Mostar is different.

This quaint Ottoman town is laced with cobblestone streets and charming old stone buildings. There is so much more to this town than just the iconic Old Bridge. It welcomes hearty locals and curious visitors alike to its lush forested mountains, cherished medieval holy sites and offbeat statues. One can blithely swim under waterfalls, explore abandoned ruins and be on an endless hunt for creative expressions left behind by poetical artists in the form of street art.

Top 5 Things to See in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Stari Most

Stari Most or Old Bridge is a rebuilt 16th-century Ottoman bridge which crosses the river Neretva. It is the most iconic landmark in the country and an exemplary Balkan Islamic architecture that is 28 meters long and 20 meters in height. In mid summer each year, the Stari Most diving competition is held where bold local men jump off the bridge and into the cold Neretva river - making it a sight not to be missed!

Stari Most: Mostar Old Bridge

The Stari Most connects two parts of Mostar

Mostar Old Bridge spanning the picturesque Neretva River

Čaršija

Located in the heart of Mostar's Old Town is a lively market, which streets are lined with stalls selling copper tableware, traditional pipe flutes, colorful rugs and delicate souvenirs. 

Visit the Čaršija at Mostar

Mostar: An Enchanting Balkan City

The busy market of Čaršija

Mostar Old Market

Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque

Built on the river bank just 150 meters away from Stari Most, this is the second biggest mosque in Mostar. Similar to the bridge, the building was also destroyed in the war and was rebuilt to be restored to what it is today.

Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque

Ottomon influences can be observed in the art and architecture of Mostar

Kravica Waterfalls

Located 40 kilometers south of Mostar, Kravica makes a popular swimming and picnic destination in the summer. Tourists can find restaurants, cafes, a rope swing, an old mill and a sailing ship around the waterfall to fuel their travel adventures.

Kravice Waterfalls at Mostar

Don't Forget Stones

The Siege of Mostar took place twice - in 1992 and 1993. It resulted in approximately 2,000 casualties, 90,000 refugees and the destruction of historic bridges, religious buildings and cultural institutions. Today, tourists can find stones placed across the town to remind them of the history and the lives lost to the wars.

Don't Forget Stones in Mostar

Mostar is an incredibly beautiful destination, perfected with distinctive Ottoman-style buildings, friendly locals and delightful Bosnian fares. It deserves a place on everyone's travel wish list!

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