Dubrovnik to Sarajevo: 7 best things to do
Over the last few years Dubrovnik has become one of the most visited destinations in Europe and it’s easy to see why.
However, if you are seeking something out of the ordinary and to escape the crowds, why not head in land and check-out what Bosnia has to offer.
Bosnia, like the rest of the Balkans, is a region of extreme beauty, diversity, history, and culture and we promise you that a trip here won’t disappoint.
To take away the hassle of public transport and car hire when we went, we decided to travel with Funky Tours and we couldn’t recommend them enough!
So without further ado, here is our list of the 7 Best Things to Do on a Dubrovnik to Sarajevo Road Trip and if you are travelling in the opposite direction, feel free to flip this itinerary upside down!
1. Kravica (Kravice) Waterfall
Although it may be a long two-hour drive from Dubrovnik to the first stop on the trip, it will easily become a highlight of your entire Balkan adventure!
Upon arrival at Kravica Waterfall you will be welcomed by a large carpark and once you’ve paid your 10KM (£5) entry fee you can make the short walk down the hill towards the falls.
After a few minutes you will be met by a breath-taking viewpoint that allows you to soak in the fairy-tale beauty of this location.
From here you can see the Trebižat River emerge through the greenery and fall 25 metres down in a wide arc towards a crystal-clear pool.
The natural pool at the bottom is the perfect place to cool off from the hot summer sun so make sure you pack your swimming costume!
The water is deep and there plenty of small fish so make sure you are a confident swimmer before heading out too far.
Down by the pool you will also find a selection of cafes and rest areas along with points where you can board short boat tours that take you up and down the river.
2. Počitelj
From the Kravica falls it’s a short 25 min drive to your next stop – the picturesque, medieval town of Počitelj.
Thought to be over 600 years old, this once prosperous town used to hold incredible strategic importance while under Ottoman rule. It was during this time that most of its most prominent sites were built, many of which you can still see today.
However, once the Austro-Hungarian leadership took over, the town lost its importance and deteriorated rapidly. The conflict during the 90s also left significant scars on the town and its population.
Whilst here we recommend taking the short walk up through the winding cobbled streets towards Počitelj Kula (tower). Once at the top you get the most amazing views over the entire town but also of the beautiful rivers and mountains surrounding it.
3. Blagaj Tekija (Dervish House)
Blagaj Tekija, or Tekke, is a small but functioning Dervish Monastery located only 20 minutes’ drive away from Mostar.
In the shadow of a large and imposing cliff, and directly next to a cave that contains the underground spring for the Buna River, the Tekke has been a source of peace and tranquillity for its members for over 600 years.
For a few Bosnian Marks you can enter the house which is interesting however we thought the idyllic location stole the show even more.
4. Traditional Bosnian Food
Like us, I’m sure by now you’ve worked up quite an appetite – well we have good news for you!
While you will be able to get a tasty meal all over Bosnia (trust us), you can’t pass up the opportunity to dine next to the gorgeous Buna River.
The water here is famously clean which means the local fish dishes are highly recommended.
If you are not a big fan of fish, then there are plenty of other tasty options for you to choose from.
We dined at Restoran Velika Ada which is just a few minutes along the road from the Dervish House and had an amazing barbecued meat platter – delicious!
5. Mostar
Next up on the road trip is a stop off in one of Bosnia’s most visited sites – Mostar.
Along with its beautifully preserved streets and shopping options, the city is perhaps most famous for being home to the Stari Most, also known as the Old Bridge.
Built in the 16th Century, the Stari Most is a fine example of Ottoman architecture and makes a great photo op!
Despite its old appearance, the bridge that stands there today is actually a recent reconstruction as the original was destroyed following bombardment during the 90s conflict.
The bridge was so iconic and loved by Mostarians that when they rebuilt it, they made sure it exactly matched the original and even used any old bricks that were still lying nearby.
These days the bridge is not only a tourist hotspot but is also used as a traditional diving point for the city’s brave young men – there’s even an annual competition for it!
It’s worth noting that Mostar is practically halfway between Sarajevo and Dubrovnik so expect the streets to be busy at peak times with day trippers from both cities.
6. Jablanica
As you crisscross your way through Bosnia, you’ll soon realise that almost every place you stop has been home to some historical event or another.
The small town of Jablanica just north of Mostar is no exception.
Although all seems peaceful now, during WW2 Jablanica and its surrounding area witnessed ferocious fighting as outnumbered Yugoslav partisans fought off the encroaching Axis powers despite overwhelming losses.
The famous Yugoslav film Battle of Neretva was based on these events and a great photo op in the town is the partially destroyed rail bridge which was blown up specifically for one of its scenes.
Even if you are not into your history, you will still be taken aback by the natural beauty of the rolling hills, the winding Neretva River and stunning Jablaničko Lake.
7. Konjic
The final stop on the trip before hitting Sarajevo is the charming town of Konjic.
Located towards the eastern end of Jablaničko Lake, Konjic is often thought of as a great starting point for those looking to explore the outdoors.
There’s lots of great things to do nearby such as hiking into the mountains, hiring a boat to explore the waterways, or taking part in some white-water rafting!
Konjic itself is also lovely to see with a quaint old town and a beautiful 17th century Ottoman bridge being the main highlights.
If you fancy something a bit more unusual, consider paying a visit to Tito’s Nuclear Bunker on the outskirts of the town – it’s so big it’s almost like a mini underground city!
Tips
1. Obtaining Bosnian Marks outside of Bosnia can be tricky. The easiest way to get some cash is to wait until you are there and simply use and an ATM.
2. Lots of the more rural places in Bosnia will only take cash so don’t rely too heavily on your credit card.
3. Border crossings can sometimes take a while so make sure you plan this into your itinerary
4. Croatia and Bosnia have amazing weather during the summer however some may find it too hot. Consider visiting in the shoulder months for cooler temperatures and quieter crowds.
