Široki Brijeg Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Široki Brijeg, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Learn about the local culture and customs, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations to explore.


Introduction to Široki Brijeg

Located in the Herzegovina region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Široki Brijeg is a small town with a rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. Its strategic location on the Neretva river and proximity to the Dinaric Alps make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while its many cultural and historical attractions offer a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past.

List of Places to Visit in Široki Brijeg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Franciscan Monastery and Church of the Holy Spirit: This beautiful Baroque-style monastery dates back to the early 18th century, and is home to a large library and museum featuring religious artifacts, manuscripts, and artworks.
  • Holy Mary’s Statue: Located in the town center, this statue honors the Virgin Mary and serves as a popular meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
  • Ethnographic Museum: Housed in a renovated grain mill, this museum offers a fascinating look at traditional Bosnian life, featuring exhibits on everything from agriculture and handicrafts to dress and music.
  • World War II Memorial: This striking monument honors the bravery and sacrifice of the local residents who fought against the Axis powers during World War II.

Natural Attractions of Široki Brijeg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Čvrsnica: One of the highest peaks in the Dinaric Alps, Mount Čvrsnica offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for hiking, skiing, and mountaineering.
  • Kravice Waterfalls: Located just outside Široki Brijeg, these stunning waterfalls cascade over limestone cliffs into a deep pool below, creating a natural swimming hole and scenic picnic spot.
  • Hutovo Blato Nature Reserve: This vast wetland area is home to over 240 bird species, as well as a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by boat, and enjoy birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking.
  • Blidinje Nature Park: This protected area features pristine forests, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes, as well as a rich cultural heritage including medieval tombs and churches.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Široki Brijeg

For those seeking outdoor adventure, Široki Brijeg offers a wealth of hiking and biking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging treks through the rugged mountain terrain. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Mount Čvrsnica Summit Trail: This challenging route takes hikers to the top of Mount Čvrsnica for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Blidinje Lake Trail: This scenic hiking trail circles the tranquil waters of Blidinje Lake, passing through pristine forests and alpine meadows.
  • Kravice Waterfalls Bike Route: This easy bike route follows the Neretva river upstream to the picturesque Kravice Waterfalls, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside along the way.

Best Things to Do in Široki Brijeg: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Široki Brijeg has plenty to offer. Some of the best things to do in the area include:

  • Rafting on the Neretva River: This thrilling activity takes you through narrow canyons and over exciting rapids, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
  • Wine Tasting at Čitluk Vineyards: Located just a short drive from Široki Brijeg, the Čitluk region is renowned for its wine production. Visitors can tour local vineyards and sample a variety of delicious wines.
  • Spa Day at Hotel Park: Relax and rejuvenate at the luxurious Hotel Park, which offers a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps.
  • Cultural Tour of Široki Brijeg: Learn about the town’s rich history and cultural heritage on a guided walking tour, which takes you through the old town and past many of the area’s most important historical landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Široki Brijeg

Day 1-2: Explore the town center of Široki Brijeg, visiting attractions like the Franciscan Monastery and Church of the Holy Spirit and the Holy Mary’s Statue.

Day 3-4: Hike or bike one of the area’s many scenic routes, like the Mount Čvrsnica Summit Trail or the Kravice Waterfalls Bike Route.

Day 5: Take a cultural tour of the town, learning about its rich history and visiting attractions like the Ethnographic Museum and the World War II Memorial.

Day 6: Relax and rejuvenate with a spa day at Hotel Park, or visit local vineyards for a wine tasting experience.

Day 7: Visit one of the area’s natural wonders, like the Kravice Waterfalls or Hutovo Blato Nature Reserve, for a memorable and scenic day trip.

Food and Drink Scene of Široki Brijeg

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ćevapi: Grilled minced meat served with flatbread and onions, a traditional Bosnian specialty.
  • Burek: A savory pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, often served for breakfast or as a snack.
  • Zeljanica: Another pastry dish filled with spinach and cheese, perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a tasty and filling snack.
  • Štrukli: A popular dish made with layers of pastry and cottage cheese, typically served as a dessert.

Local Beverages

  • Rakija: A strong alcoholic beverage made from fermented fruit, typically served as an aperitif or digestif.
  • Wine: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to a long tradition of winemaking, and local vineyards offer a variety of delicious red and white wines.
  • Turkish Coffee: A strong, rich coffee brewed in the traditional Turkish style, often served with a cube of sugar or a piece of lokum (Turkish delight).

Where to Stay in Široki Brijeg: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Park: A luxurious four-star hotel located in the heart of town, offering a variety of rooms and suites, as well as a spa and wellness center.
  • Hostel Široki Brijeg: A budget-friendly option located in the town center, offering both private and shared rooms.
  • Guesthouse Serdjo: A charming guesthouse located just outside of town, offering comfortable rooms and a peaceful garden setting.

What to Buy in Široki Brijeg: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Visit the Ethnographic Museum or local markets for a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
  • Wine: Local vineyards offer a variety of delicious wines, perfect for bringing home as a gift or souvenir.
  • Traditional Clothing: Shop for colorful traditional clothing, like the handwoven rugs and embroidered blouses and skirts sold at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Široki Brijeg

The people of Široki Brijeg take pride in their rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to take part and learn about local customs and traditions. Some of the most important cultural events and customs include:

  • Religious Festivals: Široki Brijeg is home to a large Catholic community, and religious festivals like the Festival of the Assumption and the Feast of St. Michael are important cultural events.
  • Folk Music and Dance: Local musicians and dancers keep traditional songs and dances alive, performing at festivals and events throughout the year.
  • Hospitality: Bosnians are known for their hospitality and kindness, and visitors to Široki Brijeg can expect to be warmly welcomed by locals.

Best Time to Visit Široki Brijeg

The best time to visit Široki Brijeg depends on your preferred activities and sightseeing options. For outdoor enthusiasts, the summer months (June through August) offer the best weather for hiking, biking, and water sports, while winter (December through March) is ideal for skiing and winter sports. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them great times to explore the town and its many cultural and natural attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Široki Brijeg

Do:

  • Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites or attending cultural events.
  • Do try local specialties like ćevapi, burek, and rakija for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Do take part in traditional music and dance performances to immerse yourself in Bosnian culture.
  • Do show respect for local customs and traditions, including the importance of hospitality and generosity.

Don’t:

  • Don’t dress too casually or provocatively, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Don’t take photographs inside of churches or other religious buildings without permission.
  • Don’t litter or damage the environment, especially when enjoying the area’s many natural wonders.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for advice or recommendations, as they are often happy to share their knowledge and experience.

Safety and Health

Safety in Široki Brijeg

The town of Široki Brijeg is considered safe for visitors, with low rates of crime and a friendly and welcoming local population. However, visitors are advised to take the usual precautions when traveling, such as being aware of their surroundings and valuables, and avoiding isolated or unfamiliar areas after dark.

Health in Široki Brijeg

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers modern medical facilities and high-quality healthcare, but visitors should still take the necessary precautions to protect their health. It is recommended to be up-to-date on routine vaccinations prior to travel, and to seek medical advice in case of illness or injury. Visitors should also take measures to prevent tick bites, as Lyme disease is prevalent in certain areas of the country.

Getting to Široki Brijeg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Široki Brijeg

The nearest airport to Široki Brijeg is Mostar International Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away. Sarajevo International Airport and Dubrovnik Airport in Croatia are also viable options.

Bus Stations Near Široki Brijeg

The town has a modern bus station located centrally, in the vicinity of the post office. Buses from neighboring Serbia and Croatia, as well as from other parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, serve the Široki Brijeg bus station.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available in town for travelers who prefer more privacy and flexibility. Private transfers can also be arranged to and from the airport or other nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Široki Brijeg

The town is small and easily navigable on foot, although renting a bike or car would be more optimal for longer and outside of city activities.

Where to Go Next from Široki Brijeg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Within easy reach of Široki Brijeg are several other popular destinations worth exploring. Some of the best nearby destinations include:

  • Mostar: Home to the famous Stari Most Bridge, Mostar is a beautiful and historic town renowned for its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architecture.
  • Medjugorje: Just a short drive from Široki Brijeg, Medjugorje is a holy site and pilgrimage destination for Catholics from around the world.
  • Dubrovnik: Although technically in Croatia, Dubrovnik is just a few hours’ drive from Široki Brijeg and is worth the trip to see its famed Old Town and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

From its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage to its flavorful cuisine and warm hospitality, Široki Brijeg offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, relaxation and wellness at a luxury spa, or a glimpse into Bosnian history and culture, this charming town in Herzegovina is the perfect destination for your next holiday.