Ever dreamed of standing on a picture-perfect stone bridge that looks like something out of a fantasy novel? Let's head to Mostar, a charming city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and visit its most iconic landmark—the Old Bridge over the Neretva River.

Known locally as Stari Most, this stunning arch bridge isn't just beautiful—it's a symbol of cultural connection, history, and timeless charm.

We Discover the Bridge's Elegant History

Stari Most was originally built in 1566. Designed by Mimar Hayruddin, a student of the legendary architect Mimar Sinan, the bridge was considered a major architectural achievement of its time. It stretches 29 meters (95 feet) across the Neretva River and soars nearly 20 meters (66 feet) above the water, forming a smooth, single arch of local limestone called tenelija.

Its structure is both delicate and strong, curving gracefully between two stone towers: the Halebija Tower on the west and the Tara Tower on the east. These towers once served as watchpoints and now house exhibits and galleries that offer a closer look into the bridge's past.

We Feel the Cultural Heartbeat of Mostar

The Old Bridge is more than just a way to cross a river. It connects Mostar's eastern and western parts, linking two sides of the city that reflect a blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences. The surrounding Old Town features cobblestone lanes, traditional architecture, and friendly local vendors, giving us a real sense of this region's multicultural spirit.

Crossing the bridge isn't just a walk—it's an experience. Whether we're watching young divers leap into the river below or snapping photos of the reflection shimmering on the water, every step feels meaningful.

We Get Practical: Travel Details You'll Need

Here's everything we need to know to make the most of our visit:

- Location: Mostar Old Town, Herzegovina region, Bosnia and Herzegovina

- Admission Fee: Free! It's a public bridge open to all

- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

- Recommended Visit Duration: 1–2 hours for the bridge and surrounding sights

We Choose the Best Time to Visit

- Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) are perfect for comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.

- Summer (July–August) is the busiest time, but also the most exciting, with frequent street performances and the popular Mostar Bridge Diving tradition, where experienced locals dive from the top into the cool Neretva River—a thrilling sight!

We Explore What's Nearby

There's plenty to do right around the bridge:

Old Bazaar (Kujundžiluk): Just steps from the bridge, this bustling street is full of colorful shops selling handmade copper crafts, traditional textiles, and souvenirs.

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque: Just a 5-minute walk from the bridge, this mosque allows visitors to climb its minaret for one of the best panoramic views in town.

- Entrance Fee: About $5 USD

Museum of the Old Bridge (inside Tara Tower): Learn about the bridge's construction and its cultural role through models, maps, and photos.

- Ticket Price: Around $5 USD

- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (may vary by season)

We Travel Smoothly to Mostar

From Sarajevo:

- By train: A scenic 2.5-hour ride, tickets cost about $10–15 USD

- By bus: Also around 2.5 hours, costing approximately $10–12 USD

From Dubrovnik (Croatia):

- By bus: 3–4 hours, $20–25 USD

- By car: Roughly 2.5 hours through scenic countryside (border crossing required)

Once in Mostar, the Old Town is walkable, so there's no need for local transport unless we're staying farther out.

We Share Tips for a Smooth Visit

- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes with grip—the bridge's stone surface can be slippery, especially after rain.

- Best Photo Spot: Head to the riverbanks or the terrace of nearby cafés for postcard-worthy angles.

- When to Visit: Early morning or just before sunset offers beautiful light and fewer tourists.

- What to Try: Enjoy local dishes like burek (savory pastry) and Bosnian-style coffee at cafés near the bridge.

- Where to Stay: Guesthouses and boutique hotels near the Old Town are cozy, affordable, and very convenient.

We End with a Walk Through Time

Walking across the Old Bridge in Mostar creates a lasting memory. The harmony of classic stone architecture, the gentle sound of the Neretva River flowing below, and the welcoming atmosphere of the city all come together to create a unique experience. We can capture beautiful photos, explore charming local shops nearby, or simply pause to take in the peaceful surroundings. This bridge truly offers something unforgettable for every visitor.

Lykkers, does Mostar spark your curiosity? Are you ready to join us and enjoy the magic of this incredible bridge? Let's continue our journey and discover more amazing places, one step at a time!