Break-up of Yugoslavia & The War in Mostar: Life Under Siege
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
· Overview of the establishment of the Socialistic Federal Republic of Yugoslavia as well as its role during the Cold War.
· Post Tito period during the 1980s when the slowdown of the economy and growing nationalism lead to political tensions across the country, the death of Yugoslavia, and the beginning of the war in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
· Learn why Mostar was so strategically important and why it was left as one of the most destroyed cities in Bosnia after the war.
· Listen to stories and facts during the war in Mostar and learn how the people survived under constant shelling.
· Our guide will share personal experiences and stories of the terrible events that unfolded in this city 30 years ago (shelling, concentration camps, Mostar enclave).
Available options
Break-up of Yugoslavia & The War in Mostar: Life Under Siege
Pickup included
What's included
Professional guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option selected)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Mostar War Museum Entrance Fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Hidden Yugoslavian Military Base
The first stop is the abandoned aircraft hangar located only five minutes southern of Mostar. Yugoslavian revolutionary, Josip Broz Tito, had fighter jets placed deep in the mountainous bowels of the hanger, ready to deploy. The natural fortress protected the planes from attack as well as from the prying eyes of citizens and spies.
2
Mostar War Museum
The second stop is the Mostar War Museum. You will hear first-hand stories and experiences from your guide on how Mostar was affected by the devastating war, what it is like to live in a divided city, and what happened between the lines. The guide will use a board to draw a map of the former Yugoslavia, which will help to put some puzzles together. We feel a great responsibility to educate you on this matter, so please feel free to ask us any questions.
3
West Front Line
The tour will end with exploring Šantića Street, where the closest fights happened between Bosnian and Croatian forces. You will see some bunkers that still exist so many years after the war, practically in the city center. We will walk through the city, through the front line which is now unfortunately the invisible line between two parts of Mostar. As we come close to Spanish Square and Boulevard Street we will show you pictures of those places during the war so you can compare them to the current day.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
29 reviews
5★
29
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
107 reviews
5★
106
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
About Mostar
Mostar is a historic city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a 16th-century Ottoman bridge that spans the Neretva River. The city is a blend of Ottoman, Mediterranean, and European influences, offering rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. It's a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
Top Attractions
Stari Most (Old Bridge)
A 16th-century Ottoman bridge that spans the Neretva River, symbolizing the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
Historical/Architecture
1-2 hours
Free
Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
A 17th-century mosque with a beautiful minaret and panoramic views of the city.
Religious/Architecture
1 hour
Free (small fee for minaret climb)
Blagaj
A picturesque village near Mostar, known for its Dervish monastery (Tekke) built into a cliff overlooking the Buna River.
Nature/Historical
2-3 hours
Free (small fee for monastery entry)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Ćevapi
Grilled minced meat sausages, typically served with somun (flatbread) and onions.
Main Dish
Contains meat
Burek
A flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.
Snack
Vegetarian options available
Begova Čorba
A rich, spicy soup made with vegetables, meat, and various spices.
Soup
Contains meat
Rakija
A traditional fruit brandy, often homemade and served as an aperitif.
Drink
Alcoholic
Popular Activities
Hiking
Rafting on the Neretva River
Diving from the Old Bridge
Coffee at a local cafe
Strolling through the Old Town
Picnicking by the river
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Mostar due to pleasant weather and numerous outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and tourists.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Bosnian
- Widely spoken: Croatian, Serbian, English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM)
Time Zone
CET (UTC +1), CEST (UTC +2) during daylight saving time
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Mostar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas. Be cautious of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis and insist on the meter
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Mostar International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Mostar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city. Buses are frequent but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Yutong, Bingo
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Stari Grad)
East Mostar
Day trips
Blagaj
8 km • Half day
A picturesque village known for its Dervish monastery and the Buna River spring.
Počitelj
25 km • Half day
A well-preserved Ottoman village with a fortress, mosques, and traditional houses.
Kravice Waterfalls
30 km • Full day
A stunning series of waterfalls and pools in a lush, green setting.
Festivals
Mostar Summer Festival • July
Winter Festival • December
Pro tips
- Visit the Old Bridge early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Try the local coffee and pastries at a traditional cafe in the Old Town
- Take a day trip to Blagaj or Kravice Waterfalls for a break from the city
- Learn a few basic phrases in Bosnian to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Bargain politely in the Old Bazaar, but be prepared to walk away if the price is too high
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
