Sarajevo to Mostar – How to Travel By Train, Bus, Car or Tour

Most visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina will find themselves travelling between two of the country’s main cities: Sarajevo and Mostar. Depending on your budget, there are several ways to travel from Sarajevo to Mostar including bus, train, driving, getting a private transfer or taking a guided tour.

Mostar is a very popular destination in the Balkans which draws more and more tourists each year. It’s no surprise as the town is loaded with history, surrounded by an abundance of natural beauty and offers plenty of great attractions to explore.

I recently included the drive from Sarajevo to Mostar on my road trip through the Balkans. The scenery along the drive is breathtaking and having the freedom to stop and take in the views along the way made it an even better experience!

Needless to say, I would highly recommend renting a car and driving to Mostar from Sarajevo on your own. Of course renting a car and driving there yourself is not suitable for everyone. If you’re seeking a budget friendly option then taking the bus or train will be your best bet.

For those without a car who want to discover more of Bosnia’s fascinating history, then taking a guided tour of Mostar from Sarajevo is the perfect choice. The tour will stop at several other points of interest near Mostar making it a full day of unforgettable adventures and beautiful sights.

This guide covers all the important info needed to plan your journey from Sarajevo to Mostar. In each section below, you’ll find details covering the 5 different modes of transportation so you can choose the option that suits you best.

How to Travel from Sarajevo to Mostar – 5 Different Modes of Transportation

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Sarajevo to Mostar Bus

Taking the bus to Mostar from Sarajevo is an easy and budget friendly way to travel. With plenty of departure times to choose from everyday, the bus also offers flexibility so that you can choose the time that best fits into your itinerary.

The best part about doing this journey by bus is that you can sit back, relax and take in the scenery of the stunning Bosnian countryside as you travel.

There are several bus companies that operate daily services from Sarajevo to Mostar. The buses depart many times throughout the day with the earliest departure at 6am, view the bus timetable here.

Getting to the Bus Station

To catch the bus in Sarajevo, head to the main bus station which is located near the train station.

The Mostar bus station is conveniently located in the city centre, within walking distance of the Old Bridge. Once you arrive, it shouldn’t take you longer than 15 minutes to reach your Mostar accommodation by foot. If you are travelling with a lot of luggage, you can take a taxi to your accommodation from the bus station for around 5 – 6 KM.

Be sure to keep some change on hand throughout your journey. If you need to use the public toilets at the bus station on either end it will cost you 1 KM however there are usually toilets onboard the buses.

Booking Your Bus Ticket

The journey is straightforward and takes around 2.5 hours, making several stops in other towns along the way. While some websites might sell you a ticket online, the most efficient way to buy your ticket is directly at the bus station. This takes away the hassle of having to print the ticket etc.

The ticket will cost you 19 – 25 KM which is equal to €10 – €13. Be prepared to pay an extra 2 KM to the driver (cash) if you need to store your luggage under the bus for the journey.

Sarajevo to Mostar Train

Taking the train from Sarajevo to Mostar is another super easy and affordable mode of transportation. The downside is that there are only 3 train departures throughout the day so you will have to plan your trip accordingly.

The first train of the day leaves Sarajevo at 7:15am and arrives in Mostar at 9:10am. The second train leaves Sarajevo at 4:50pm and arrives in Mostar at 6:48pm. The final train of the day departs at 7:15pm and arrives at 9:10pm

Just like the bus journey, the train ride from Sarajevo to Mostar is really beautiful and offers a great way to admire the lush landscapes as you travel.

This is not one of those boring train trips to zone out and fall asleep! Passing by mountains, rivers and valleys, the scenery on the train route from Sarajevo to Mostar is nothing short of spectacular.

Contrary to what you may expect from public transportation in the Balkans, the trains that run between these two cities are actually fast, modern and provide a comfortable journey.

With air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, large seats and overhead storage for your belongings, the train is arguably the better choice if comfort is what you’re seeking.

Getting to the Train Station

The train station in Sarajevo is located outside of the main tourist area of Baščaršija and can be accessed by taking a short taxi ride or hopping on tram #1. See exact location here.

Once you arrive at the other end, the train station in Mostar is a 15 minute walk away from the Old Town. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to your hotel.

Booking Your Train Ticket

The positive aspects of taking the train is that it’s faster, cheaper and more comfortable than the bus. The train will get you to Mostar in just 2 hours and costs only 14.10 KM which is €7 per ticket.

Book your train ticket online and view the updated timetable at the official website. You can also buy your ticket on arrival at the train station. Keep in mind that if you buy your ticket online, you will still need to arrive at the station early enough to have your ticket printed out.

Sarajevo to Mostar Guided Tour Day Trip

If you are spending some time in Sarajevo and want a quick and convenient option to see the highlights of Mostar then you should book an organised day tour from Sarajevo to Mostar.

Keep in mind that if you book a day tour, you will return to Sarajevo in the evening. An organised tour is perfect for people who are based in Sarajevo and simply looking to enjoy a day of sightseeing rather than travelling one way to Mostar.

Taking a day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik is a very popular option for many travellers but luckily there are also some highly rated tours to Mostar that depart from Sarajevo.

Booking a tour is great because it takes the stress out of the planning. All you need to do is show up and enjoy the day! Find my top recommended tour below.

Full Day Tour from Sarajevo to Mostar – Dive into Mostar’s colourful history and marvel at the historic sites of Bosnia on a 10 hour tour from Sarajevo. Led by an expert local guide, you will be picked up from your accommodation in Sarajevo to embark on an exciting journey to Mostar.

This tour includes stops in Blagaj, Pocitelj, Konjic, Kravice Falls and Mostar. Throughout the day trip you will explore Ottoman-era villages, taste traditional foods, visit several beautiful waterfalls and learn all about the country’s rich history from your friendly guide.

This full day tour includes hotel pick up/drop off in Sarajevo, lunch, local guide/driver. Entrance to attractions is not included in the price of the tour ticket.

➤Find tour prices and availability here.

Sarajevo to Mostar by Rental Car

Driving Time – 2 hrs 30 mins

Sarajevo to Mostar Distance – 127km

Driving Directions – View GPS directions on Google Maps

The drive from Sarajevo to Mostar is one of those routes that is made for a road trip. The road winds along emerald rivers, through sleepy villages and past towering green mountains. It’s one of the most scenic drives I did on my Balkans road trip last summer.

I would recommend doing this drive to anyone who is planning to travel from Sarajevo to Mostar if your timeframe is flexible and your budget allows for it. It’s the best way to experience the local culture of rural Bosnia while appreciating the incredible natural scenery as you go.

As the drive only takes 2.5 hours, you will have the choice to either drive straight there or take your time and make a few stops along the way. Assuming you have already seen the sites of Sarajevo and you’re ready to hit the road, here are some stops to add to your drive.

Sarajevo Tunnel – On my way out of Sarajevo, I made a stop at the underground tunnel and war history museum. The museum is located on the outskirts of the city, as you make your way toward Mostar.

Allow about an hour to spend here exploring the tunnel and learning some of the fascinating history of the Bosnian civil war. If you don’t know much about this part of their history, this museum is a must-see and an easy stop to make on your drive from Sarajevo to Mostar!

Konjic – After driving for about one hour you will arrive in Konjic. This small town is located in a very scenic spot on the banks of the Neretva River and has over 4000 years worth of history.

The 17th century “Old Bridge” is one of the highlights of the town and is an important part of Bosnian heritage. The Old Bridge of Konjic marks the exact spot where Bosnia meets Herzegovina.

Take a wander along the main street of town to see beautiful historic buildings and mosques. Konjic makes a lovely place to stop and break up your drive and perhaps grab a coffee at one of the cafes in town.

Jablanica Lake – The drive to Mostar gets more and more beautiful as you go. Jablanica Lake is the next thing you will come across and it’s the perfect spot to stop and take in the gorgeous lake views. Although this lake is actually man-made, it only adds to the natural scenery that surrounds it!

The closest town to the lake is called Ostrožac and there are a few traditional restaurants around there where you can stop for lunch with a view. Some popular restaurant options in this area include:

• Restoran Jezero

• Konoba Neretvica

• Restoran Orahovica

For those who wish to stay a while and explore the area further, there are a number of little shops renting out boats or offering boat cruises on the lake.

Neretva River Canyon

Before arriving in Mostar, you’ll pass through a really beautiful section of road that winds alongside the Neretva River with steep canyon walls rising up on either side. You’ll be able to pull over at several scenic spots along this road to snap a few photos. If you have a drone this is the perfect place to put it to use!

Is it Safe to Drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The most challenging thing about driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina is keeping an eye out for the locals who don’t follow the traffic laws. You really have to be aware of other drivers speeding and overtaking cars on blind corners. This is especially true on the single-lane winding mountain roads.

You may end up stuck behind slow vehicles and unable to get around them but just take the drive slow and avoid taking any silly risks. As long as you are confident, drive with caution and stay alert then you will be fine.

My top tip for navigating would be to make sure you pack a phone mount so you can see the driving directions on your phone clearly. This made a huge difference on my road trip through Bosnia.

Car Rental

To organise your car rental in Bosnia, use this search tool to help you find a large selection of car rental providers at the most reasonable prices. Whenever I travel abroad, I always use RentalCars.com as it simplifies the process of locating and booking a car.

Use the search box below or click here to compare prices on car rental options for the dates that you require.

Sarajevo to Mostar by Private Transfer

If your budget allows for it and you would prefer not to drive to Mostar yourself, booking a private transfer will suit you better. This is a convenient option if you are travelling with a large group of people or if you have too much luggage to carry on your own.

Taking a private transfer also allows you to get picked up by your driver directly at the Sarajevo airport and be dropped off at the door of your hotel in Mostar. It’s a quick, easy and hassle free way to travel between Sarajevo and Mostar.

Prices for taking a private transfer start from €75 and vary depending on group size.

➤Find more info about booking your private transfer to Mostar here.

Highlights of Mostar

Whether you’re taking a day trip to Mostar or planning to stay for a few days, here are a few of the top attractions that can’t be missed around the town.

Stari Most – Old Bridge

Mostar’s most iconic landmark, the Stari Most “Old Bridge” is a striking Ottoman-era bridge that spans across the Neretva River connecting both parts of the city.

There are many points around the town where you can admire views of the unique and beautiful bridge. Make your way down to the riverside for the best angle to capture Stari Most.

Of course, no visit to Mostar is complete without taking a walk across this 16th century masterpiece. If you spend enough time around the bridge, you may witness some of the local bridge jumpers.

You will see them collecting coins from tourists until they reach a certain amount before making the leap into the freezing waters below. It is quite an impressive sight!

Neretva River

The emerald river that flows through the middle of Mostar is a unique and striking sight. When visiting Mostar on a roasting hot summer’s day, the Neretva River appears to be very inviting.

While swimming is possible, you might be wondering why the river isn’t full of other tourists. Just keep in mind that the temperature of the water is unexpectedly cold. It’s actually been classed as one of the coldest rivers in the world, even during summer!

Old Town

The Old Town of Mostar is a magical place to wander and soak in the local culture. Take in the sights and smells as you explore the cobbled streets, crossing over bridges and browsing through the little shops.

You’ll find colourful Turkish shops selling all kinds of souvenirs and trinkets. The town is quite small and it’s easy to see everything by foot in a few hours.

Dine at a Restaurant With a View

There are many great restaurants in Mostar that offer perfect views of the Old Bridge and river. After two visits to Mostar over the years, I can’t say I had any bad dining experiences.

There is one restaurant in particular that I will recommend as the views are pretty outstanding. Restaurant Lagero is located on the western banks of the Neretva River and boasts an unbeatable view of the Old Bridge from their outdoor terrace.

I really liked the service there and the food was quite tasty as well. At some point during your time in Mostar, make a point of eating at Restaurant Lagero and you will not be disappointed!

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque

This gorgeous 17th century mosque is one of the key landmarks of Mostar. Built next to the Neretva River, the original mosque was sadly damaged during the civil war and was rebuilt during the 90’s.

If you’re up for it, you can climb to the top of the mosque’s minaret to find a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscapes. I would advise to do this as early in the day as possible as the spiral staircase is pretty narrow and it gets crowded very quickly when it’s busy.

Museum of War and Genocide Victims

Just outside of Mostar’s Old Town, you can visit this informative museum to learn more about Bosnia’s tragic war history. Learn personal accounts from the victims and take an unfiltered look into this harrowing period in time.

The museum is about a 10 minute walk from the centre of the Old Town and you can purchase your tickets online before you go.

Blagaj Tekke

If you have longer than a day in Mostar, I would highly recommend taking a day trip to the nearby Dervish House. Blagaj is a small village about 20 minutes from Mostar known for its Turkish monastery.

Just like Mostar, the village is surrounded by stunning scenery and located right on the Buna River. The main attraction here is the Dervish House, also known as Blagaj Tekke.

You can either pay a small fee to enter the monastery or simply admire the views from the outside. Nestled within a cliff, it is a particularly special place. Finish off your visit by enjoying some lunch at one of the lovely nearby restaurants next to the river.

Where to Stay in Sarajevo

When seeking accommodation in Sarajevo, you should plan to base yourself in the main tourist area which is called Baščaršija. This is where you’ll have easy access to the historic markets, the iconic 18th century wooden fountain, and plenty of restaurants and shops.

Pigeon Square Rooms – Centrally located in the historic centre of Sarajevo, this clean and welcoming hostel is the perfect option for those travelling on a budget.

Old Town Hotel – This cosy hotel is well located within walking distance to the city’s main attractions and includes free parking and a buffet style breakfast during your stay.

Hotel Sana – In the heart of Sarajevo’s Old Town, Hotel Sana offers clean, modern and quiet rooms. There is a 24h front desk, a hotel bar, breakfast is included, and there’s an outdoor terrace with city views .

→Browse more accommodation options in Sarajevo←

Where to Stay in Mostar

Once you arrive in Mostar, you’ll want to book your accommodation somewhere central so that you can easily access the restaurants and sites around the town. Rooms in the Old Town tend to book out quite far in advance during high season so it’s important to book ahead of time.

Villa Cardak– Stay in a comfortable air-conditioned guest house in an ideal location only a short walk from the Old Bridge.

Apartments Arch -Book a self-catering apartment in a convenient location near all of Mostar’s main landmarks. These apartments are brand new with modern décor and offer free parking for those who are travelling by car.

Residence Riverside – This beautiful and highly reviewed accommodation is another great choice in Mostar. Only steps from the Old Bridge, these spacious apartments offer the perfect oasis to retreat to after a big day of driving or sightseeing.

→Browse more accommodation options in Mostar←

Read More Bosnia Travel Guides

• Day Trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik – The Ultimate Guide

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