From Dubrovnik: Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Day Trip

A comprehensive look at the Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls day trip

Traveling from Dubrovnik to Bosnia and Herzegovina on a day trip offers a fantastic opportunity to experience two of the region’s most iconic sights—Kravice Waterfalls and the historic city of Mostar. While this tour isn’t about lounging for hours, it packs enough beauty, history, and local flavor to make it well worth the early start and the long day.

What makes this trip stand out? Firstly, the guided experience ensures you get insightful commentary on the region’s cultural mix. Secondly, stunning scenery at Kravice and Mostar’s Old Town provides endless photo opportunities. Lastly, value for money in terms of accessibility and convenience makes it an attractive option for travelers with limited time.

One aspect to keep in mind: the tour involves a fair amount of driving (around 6-7 hours in total), which might feel long for some. If you’re not a fan of lengthy bus rides or border crossings, this might not be ideal. However, if you’re eager to see Bosnia’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide, this trip should fit the bill. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural stories, and a taste of inland natural beauty without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.

Good To Know

• Beautiful scenery at Kravice Waterfalls and Mostar’s Old Bridge
• Expert guides provide insights into local history and culture
• Flexible options such as visiting the Turkish house museum
• Long but rewarding day with about 6-7 hours of travel
• Additional costs such as entrance fees (waterfalls and Turkish house) are not included
• Good for those comfortable with border crossings and long bus rides

You can check if your dates are available here:

An in-depth look at the trip

Starting out early and transportation

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, which is especially convenient if you’re staying in Dubrovnik or Cavtat. The pickup time is around 6:00 am, and the meeting point is flexible, although most travelers are scheduled to meet at a designated spot near Frankopanska ulica and Puta od Cavtata. Expect a comfortable coach ride with a knowledgeable guide, such as Maria, who impresses guests with her historical insights, or Brano, who receives praise for his driving skills and friendly attitude.

The long drive—about 2.5 hours to the border—means you’ll be on the bus for a significant portion of the day. This is a common feature of day trips in the region, and many reviews note that delays at border crossings can extend the journey a bit. Yet, the scenery along the way is engaging, and the bus’s air-conditioning and the company of new travel buddies make it manageable.

Kravice Waterfalls: a natural spectacle

The first stop, Kravice Waterfalls, is about an hour from the border. This spot is often praised for its breathtaking beauty, with reviewers describing it as “spectacular scenery” and “a very refreshing place on a hot day.” You’ll have around 1 to 1.5 hours here, enough time to walk down steps leading to the falls, snap photos, and enjoy the lush surroundings.

Some guests, like Lesley, suggested that more time at Kravice would be ideal, as the visit feels a little rushed—just enough to take a few quick photos, buy a snack, and soak in the view before heading back to the bus. Transportation options including a land train are available at a cost, which can be handy if you’re less mobile or want to save energy.

Reviewers also note that entrance fees to Kravice are around €10 and are payable on the spot, not included in the tour price. So, budget a few extra euros for that.

Crossing borders and local insights

Border crossings between Croatia and Bosnia are part of the daily routine on this trip. Reviews mention that delays are possible, but guides like Keno and Maria work hard to keep the mood upbeat and provide plenty of interesting facts. It’s a good idea to have your passport or ID card ready, especially if you’re an EU citizen, as you’ll need it to cross into Bosnia.

Exploring Mostar’s historic charm

Following Kravice, the bus heads to Mostar, where you’ll arrive with about 3 hours to explore. This period includes a guided 30-minute tour with a local guide who shares stories about the city’s unique blend of Ottoman and Western influences. Many travelers find this local input priceless, as it adds depth to what you see.

The Old Bridge (Stari Most) is the highlight—reconstructed after the devastating war at the end of the 20th century. It’s not just a pretty sight but a symbol of resilience. You’ll likely see local divers preparing to leap from the bridge, a tradition that has persisted for centuries, though not everyone partakes during the short visit.

Mostar’s lively streets invite wandering, and you’ll have time to buy souvenirs, try local snacks, or visit the Turkish house museum if you choose to purchase a ticket (€3). Multiple reviews underscore how charming and authentic Mostar feels, with reviewers like Theresa praising the “interesting to hear about the region’s history” and “beautiful city.”

Returning and reflection

The journey back starts around 4 pm, with the bus arriving in Dubrovnik or Cavtat near 7 pm. While the day is quite long, many reviews say it’s “worth the effort” for the chance to see stunning landscapes and learn about a different culture. Some guests mention that more time at the waterfalls would improve the experience, but most agree that a full day out is still manageable and rewarding.

What’s included and what to keep in mind

The tour’s price of $80 offers good value considering transportation, guides, and entry to some sights, but extra costs do add up. Entrance to Kravice Waterfalls (€10) and the Turkish house museum (€3) are paid on-site. Plus, a small tourist tax (€3) per person applies at the border. Food and drinks are not included, so packing snacks or planning for a quick meal in Mostar is wise.

The tour’s language of operation is English, and it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues due to the physical nature of some stops and walking. Cancellation policy is flexible, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Final thoughts: who this trip is perfect for

This day trip offers a fantastic snapshot of Bosnia’s natural beauty and historic charm, making it perfect for curious travelers who want an efficient, guided experience without the hassle of organizing transport and entry tickets themselves. The scenic drives and guided insights help flesh out the region’s stories, making it ideal for history buffs and photography lovers alike.

If you enjoy authentic small-group vibes and don’t mind a long day in transit, this tour provides a broad taste of what Bosnia offers. Plus, those interested in the region’s resilient architecture and lively street scenes will find Mostar particularly captivating.

However, if you prefer more leisurely exploration or are traveling with young children or mobility impairments, this might feel a bit rushed. The fixed schedule and brief stops mean you’ll need to prioritize what interests you most.

FAQs

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Most travelers should check whether they need a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The tour requires a passport or ID card, and border crossings are included in the day’s schedule.

What’s the best time of year to do this trip?
While the tour runs year-round, many reviews mention September as a lovely month, with good weather and fewer crowds. Summer months can be hot, especially at Kravice.

How long is the drive from Dubrovnik?
The total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours to 3 hours each way, depending on border crossing delays.

Are there bathroom stops on the way?
Yes, there are at least two comfort breaks, typically near each border, providing a chance to stretch and refresh.

Can I spend more time at Kravice or Mostar?
The tour includes about an hour at Kravice and three hours in Mostar, which many find sufficient but some wish was longer. Additional time can’t be easily added without extending the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While it’s generally family-friendly, the long bus ride and physical walking may require some entertainment for kids. It’s best for children who can handle a full day and border crossings.

What is the Turkish house, and is it worth visiting?
The Turkish house is a museum representing Ottoman-era life. It’s an optional add-on costing €3, and many visitors find it a worthwhile peek into local history.

How much should I budget for extras?
Besides the €10 entrance to Kravice and €3 for the Turkish house, remember the €3 tax at the border. Snacks and souvenirs are additional.

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local cuisine in Mostar.

What should I bring?
A valid passport or ID is essential, and comfortable shoes are advised for walking around Kravice and Mostar’s streets.

This tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insight, and practical value. It’s an excellent choice if you want a well-organized, guided experience of Bosnia’s highlights in just one day.

You can check if your dates are available here: