Herzegovina Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Herzegovina with this comprehensive travel guide. From must-visit attractions to hiking routes, accommodations, and local customs, we've got you covered.


Herzegovina is a stunning region located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the heart of the Balkans. With its wealth of cultural and natural treasures, Herzegovina is a paradise for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure and exploration.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the top places to visit in Herzegovina, give you insider tips for the best things to do, provide you with advice on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around, and much more. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for an authentic travel experience, Herzegovina is sure to captivate you. So, let’s start exploring!

Introduction to Herzegovina

Herzegovina is a region known for its rugged natural landscape, rich history, and fascinating culture. Its main city, Mostar, is famous for its iconic Old Bridge, which spans the emerald-blue waters of the Neretva River. In addition to Mostar, Herzegovina is home to a wealth of small towns and beautiful villages, each with its own unique story and charm.

The region is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, influenced by the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires, as well as by the neighboring Croatia and Serbia. As a result, Herzegovina is a place where east meets west, where ancient customs blend with modern lifestyles, and where visitors can experience a truly unique and eye-opening adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Herzegovina

If you’re planning a trip to Herzegovina, here are the top places you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Stari Most (Old Bridge), Mostar - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the symbol of Mostar, the Old Bridge dates back to the 16th century and was destroyed during the Bosnian war. It was later rebuilt using the original techniques and materials.
  2. Blagaj Tekke, Blagaj - A sufi dervish monastery located at the source of the Buna River, Blagaj Tekke is a unique example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans.
  3. Pocitelj, Pocitelj - A preserved medieval town that sits on a hill overlooking the Neretva River, Pocitelj is a must-visit for history buffs and architecture lovers.
  4. Kravice Waterfalls, Studenci - A series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery, Kravice Waterfalls are an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty.

Natural Attractions of Herzegovina: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Neretva River Rafting, Konjic - For those seeking a thrill, rafting on the emerald-green waters of the Neretva River is a must-do. The rapids range from class II to IV, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
  2. Vjetrenica Cave, Zavala - A stunning karst cave system featuring underground lakes, stalactites, and stalagmites, Vjetrenica Cave is one of the most impressive underground natural wonders in the Balkans.
  3. Hutovo Blato Nature Park, Capljina - A wetland reserve where the Neretva River delta meets the Adriatic Sea, Hutovo Blato is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to dozens of bird species, as well as other wildlife such as otters, wild boars, and foxes.
  4. Bjelasnica Mountain, Bjelasnica - A popular ski resort in the winter, Bjelasnica offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and peaks. In the summer, it’s a great destination for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the fresh mountain air.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Herzegovina

Herzegovina is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with plenty of scenic trails and paths to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  1. Via Dinarica Trail - A long-distance hiking trail that crosses the Dinaric Alps and passes through Herzegovina, Via Dinarica Trail offers stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and rivers.
  2. Velika Orjenica - A challenging hike that rewards you with breathtaking views of the Kravice Waterfalls and the surrounding landscape.
  3. Sutjeska National Park - A pristine wilderness area that’s ideal for hiking, with trails ranging from easy strolls to multi-day treks.
  4. Hutovo Blato Nature Park - With its network of wooden walkways and pedestrian bridges, Hutovo Blato is a great place for a leisurely stroll, a bike ride, or a birdwatching expedition.

Best Things to Do in Herzegovina: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, biking, and rafting, Herzegovina offers a range of other activities and tours that are worth experiencing. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Street Art Tour, Mostar - Discover the hidden street art gems of Mostar with a guided walking tour that takes you to some of the city’s most colorful and vibrant murals.
  2. Wine Tasting Tour, Trebinje - Visit the wineries of Trebinje, a charming town known for its excellent wines, and enjoy a tasting session accompanied by local snacks.
  3. Ottoman Treasures Tour, Konjic - Learn about the Ottoman legacy in Herzegovina with a guided tour that takes you to some of the region’s most important Ottoman sites.
  4. Jeep Safari, Blidinje Nature Park - Drive through the rugged landscape of Blidinje Nature Park in a 4x4 jeep and discover its hidden corners and stunning vistas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Herzegovina

If you want to see the best of Herzegovina in a week, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Arrive in Mostar, explore the Old Town and the Old Bridge. Day 2: Visit Blagaj Tekke and Pocitelj, hike to the Blagaj Waterfall. Day 3: Rafting on the Neretva River, visit the necropolis of Radimlja. Day 4: Visit the Kravice Waterfalls, drive to Trebinje, visit the Tvrdos Monastery and taste some local wines. Day 5: Visit Sutjeska National Park, hike to the Skakavac Waterfall. Day 6: Drive to Blidinje Nature Park, take a jeep safari, hike to the Hajducka Vrata. Day 7: Depart from Herzegovina.

Food and Drink Scene of Herzegovina

Herzegovina is a place where food is taken seriously, and where local specialties reflect the region’s history and culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Cevapi - Grilled minced meat served with onions, ajvar (a roasted pepper spread), and somun bread.
  2. Burek - A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, a staple of Balkan cuisine.
  3. Klepe - Small dumplings filled with meat or cheese, served with sour cream and paprika.
  4. Sogan Dolma - Stuffed onion rolls with minced meat, rice, and herbs, baked in tomato sauce.
  5. Tufahije - Stewed apples stuffed with walnuts, cinnamon, and sugar, served with whipped cream.

Local Beverages

  1. Rakija - A strong fruit brandy that’s a traditional welcome drink in Herzegovina.
  2. Medovaca - A sweet honey brandy that’s perfect for sipping after a meal.
  3. Herzegovina Wine - Although not as well-known as its Croatian and Serbian counterparts, Herzegovina wine has been steadily gaining recognition for its quality and unique taste.
  4. Turkish Coffee - A ubiquitous drink in Herzegovina, Turkish coffee is strong, bitter, and served in small cups.

Where to Stay in Herzegovina: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Herzegovina has a range of accommodations to suit any budget and preference. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Hotel Mepas, Mostar - A modern and elegant hotel located in the heart of Mostar, with comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.
  2. Hotel Hercegovina, Medjugorje - A family-owned hotel with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, located close to the main pilgrimage site.
  3. Hostel Miran, Blagaj - A cozy and simple hostel with a lovely garden and a friendly owner, located near the Buna River.
  4. Villa Most, Mostar - A boutique hotel with spacious and stylish rooms, located in a quiet residential area.

What to Buy in Herzegovina: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Herzegovina is famous for its handmade crafts, traditional costumes, and delicious food products. Here are some ideas for souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  1. Handwoven Carpets - Made by skilled artisans using traditional techniques, Herzegovina carpets are prized for their intricate designs and vibrant colors.
  2. Bosnian Coffee Set - For coffee lovers, a set of traditional Bosnian cups and a cezve (coffee pot) is the perfect souvenir to remember the taste of Herzegovina.
  3. Fig Jam - Made from fresh figs and sugar, Herzegovina fig jam is a local delicacy that makes for a great gift or a treat for yourself.
  4. Silver Jewellery - Herzegovina has a centuries-old tradition of silver craftsmanship, and its jewelry, especially filigree work, is a work of art.

Local Culture and Customs of Herzegovina

Herzegovina’s culture and customs have been shaped by its turbulent history and diverse influences. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  1. Greetings - In Herzegovina, it’s customary to greet people with a handshake and to use titles and last names when addressing others.
  2. Modesty - Modesty is highly valued in Herzegovina, and dressing conservatively and avoiding ostentatious displays of wealth is recommended.
  3. Religion - Herzegovina has a predominantly Muslim population, and visitors are expected to respect the customs and traditions associated with Islam.
  4. Gift Giving - If invited to someone’s home, it’s polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or flowers.

Best Time to Visit Herzegovina

Herzegovina has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do and see:

  1. Summer (June-August) - Ideal for outdoor activities, such as rafting, hiking, and swimming.
  2. Spring (April-May) - A good time to visit for cultural events, such as the Mostar Music Festival and the Days of Slavic Culture.
  3. Fall (September-October) - A great time to visit for trekking, as the temperatures are cooler and the foliage is colorful.
  4. Winter (December-February) - Perfect for skiing and winter sports, with many ski resorts in the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Herzegovina

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Herzegovina:

Do:

  1. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  2. Learn a few phrases of the local language (Bosnian) to show respect and appreciation.
  3. Try the local food and beverages.
  4. Dress modestly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.

Don’t:

  1. Criticize the political situation or the recent war.
  2. Smoke in public places.
  3. Take photographs of people without their permission.
  4. Swim in prohibited areas or in rivers without a guide.

Safety and Health

Herzegovina is generally a safe and welcoming place for tourists, but it’s always a good idea to take some precautions and be aware of the local laws and customs.

Safety in Herzegovina

  1. Be aware of the risk of unexploded landmines in rural areas, especially near the border with Croatia. Stick to well-defined paths and avoid walking on unmarked land.
  2. Be vigilant when using public transportation and avoid traveling alone at night.
  3. Keep your valuables and important documents in a safe place, such as a hotel safe or a money belt.

Health in Herzegovina

  1. Make sure you have adequate health insurance before traveling to Herzegovina.
  2. Be aware of the risk of tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, especially when hiking in wooded areas.
  3. Drink bottled water or bring a water purifier, as tap water may not be safe to drink.

Getting to Herzegovina: Transportation Options and Logistics

Herzegovina is well-connected to the major cities of Bosnia and Herzegovina and neighboring countries.

Airports Near Herzegovina

  1. Mostar International Airport (OMO) - located 5 km south-east of Mostar, with daily flights to Zagreb, Belgrade, and Vienna.
  2. Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) - located 130 km north of Mostar, with frequent flights to major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Herzegovina

  1. Mostar Bus Station - located in the city center, with connections to major cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina and neighboring countries.
  2. Trebinje Bus Station - located in the heart of Trebinje, with connections to Sarajevo, Belgrade, Podgorica, and Dubrovnik.

Other Options

  1. Car Rental - If you rent a car, you can explore Herzegovina at your own pace and enjoy the scenic roads and charming villages.
  2. Private Transfer - You can also arrange for a private transfer from the airport to your hotel or other destinations in Herzegovina.

How to Get Around in Herzegovina

Herzegovina is a relatively small region, and most of the attractions are within a few hours’ drive from each other. Here are some transportation options:

  1. Bus - Local buses are a reliable and affordable way to get around Herzegovina. Check the schedules in advance as some routes may have limited availability.
  2. Taxi - Taxis are easy to find in the main towns and cities, but the fares can vary depending on the distance and time of day.
  3. Car Rental - Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore Herzegovina at your own pace and off the beaten track.

Where to Go Next from Herzegovina: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Herzegovina is located in the heart of the Balkans, making it a great starting point for further exploration. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  1. Dubrovnik, Croatia - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Croatia.
  2. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina - The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is a melting pot of cultures and a fascinating city to explore.
  3. Kotor, Montenegro - A scenic medieval town located on the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  4. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia - A stunning national park with dozens of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes.

Conclusion

Herzegovina is a region full of surprises, with its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, seeking a cultural immersion, or simply looking for a relaxing break, Herzegovina has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, we hope you’re inspired to visit Herzegovina and discover its hidden treasures for yourself.

Panoramic view of the course of the Trebišnjica River near Gornji Orahovac Panoramic view of the course of the Trebišnjica River near Gornji Orahovac


    Konjic
    Trebinje
    Široki Brijeg