Weekend Wonders of Bosnia and Herzegovina
From Sarajevo's Ottoman Soul to Mostar's Iconic Bridge
Trip Overview
This weekend escape captures the essence of Bosnia and Herzegovina through its two most captivating cities. Begin in Sarajevo, where East meets West in a fascinating blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav heritage. Wander through the atmospheric Baščaršija bazaar, trace the city's complex 20th-century history, and savor traditional Bosnian coffee. Journey south to Mostar, home to the legendary Stari Most bridge and a beautifully preserved Ottoman old town. This itinerary balances cultural immersion with leisurely exploration, offering authentic experiences from bustling markets to serene riverside walks. You'll taste ćevapi and burek, meet warm-hearted locals, and witness landscapes where minarets pierce mountain backdrops. Perfect for a condensed yet meaningful introduction to this underrated Balkan gem.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Sarajevo's Living History
Where to Stay Tonight
Baščaršija or Old Town vicinity (A guesthouse or small hotel within walking distance of the bazaar)
Staying in the old town puts you at the heart of Sarajevo's atmosphere and allows easy exploration on foot
Mostar's Bridge Between Worlds
Where to Stay Tonight
Mostar Old Town or return to Sarajevo (A traditional guesthouse with river views if staying in Mostar, or return to Sarajevo for evening departure)
Staying in Mostar allows a more leisurely pace and magical evening atmosphere; returning to Sarajevo works better for early departures
Practical Information
Getting Around
Sarajevo is walkable for most attractions, with affordable taxis for outlying sites like the Tunnel Museum ($10-15). The Sarajevo-Mostar route is served by frequent, comfortable buses (around $12-15 one-way, 2.5 hours). Book bus tickets at least a day in advance during summer. Within Mostar, everything is walkable from the Old Town. Consider renting a car if you want flexibility to explore countryside sites like Blagaj or Počitelj, though it's not necessary for this itinerary.
Book Ahead
Accommodation during summer months (June-August), bus tickets between Sarajevo and Mostar
Packing Essentials
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones, modest clothing for mosque visits (scarves for women), light layers for variable mountain weather, camera with good zoom for bridge photography, reusable water bottle
Total Budget
$135-185 for 2 days (excluding accommodation)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Stay in hostels ($10-15/night) with shared rooms, eat primarily at ćevabdžinicas and bakeries serving burek ($3-5 per meal), use only public buses, skip paid museums in favor of free walking exploration, bring snacks from markets. Pack lunch for the Mostar day trip. Total budget can drop to $40-50 per day excluding accommodation.
Luxury Upgrade
Book boutique heritage hotels in restored Ottoman buildings ($100-150/night), hire a private driver for the Sarajevo-Mostar journey with stops at Konjic and Blagaj Tekke ($150-200), dine at upscale restaurants featuring modern interpretations of Bosnian cuisine, arrange a private guide for war history tours, enjoy spa treatments at your hotel, and add wine tasting at a Herzegovina vineyard.
Family-Friendly
Focus more time at parks like Vrelo Bosne spring near Sarajevo (horse-drawn carriage rides available). Skip intense war museums in favor of the interactive aspects of Baščaršija's craft workshops where kids can watch artisans. In Mostar, children love watching the bridge divers and feeding fish in the Neretva. Choose family-run guesthouses where hosts often welcome children warmly. Pack snacks as Bosnian meal times can be late for young children.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina