Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls Small-Group with Turkish House Included

If you’re staying in Dubrovnik and looking to see a different side of the Balkans, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s natural beauty and historic charm. While it’s not a short day, it packs in some truly memorable sights — from the impressive Kravice Waterfalls to the iconic Old Bridge in Mostar.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines stunning outdoor scenery with cultural insights. Plus, the inclusion of a free visit to the Turkish House adds a little extra value for those interested in local history. On the flip side, the long travel hours and border checks might be a bit tiring for some, especially if you’re not used to bus journeys.

This tour is ideal if you want a guided trip that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning your own border crossings or transport. It’s especially suited for those who love a mix of nature and history, and don’t mind a long day of travel.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation options tailored to group size, making the trip more enjoyable.
• Well-organized itinerary with clear stops at the waterfalls and in Mostar, offering a good balance of guided tours and free time.
• Expert local guides provide valuable context that brings the sites alive.
• Cost-effective price point considering the transportation, guided tour, and included Turkish House visit.
• Border crossing experience is straightforward but requires a valid passport and some patience.
• Long day, but many reviews highlight that it’s worth the effort for the sights and stories.

A Practical Look at the Tour

This full-day trip offers a convenient way to see some of Bosnia’s highlights without the stress of organizing transport or guides yourself. Starting with pickup from your Dubrovnik hotel or a central meeting point, you’ll hop into a modern, air-conditioned vehicle — either a cozy minibus or a slightly larger coach, depending on your booking choice. We appreciate the flexibility here, as smaller groups tend to feel more intimate and manageable.

Crossing the Border and First Stop: Kravice Waterfalls

Your journey begins with a scenic drive through Croatia and into Bosnia-Herzegovina, crossing the border at a point where patience can sometimes be tested, especially during busy times. Make sure your passport is ready — a must for this trip. Once in Bosnia, your first stop is the Kravice Waterfalls, a spectacular cascade of water plunging up to 80 feet (25 meters). It’s often compared to a mini-Niagara, and that’s not far off.

Many reviews mention that the waterfalls are a visual highlight, with some even taking a quick swim if the water levels are lower in the summer. You’ll get around 45 minutes here, which is enough time to walk around, take photos, and even dip your toes in the pools. Keep in mind that there’s a 10 Euro entrance fee for the waterfalls, which you’ll need to cover yourself, along with a small tourist tax of 3 Euros for Bosnia.

While the waterfalls are undeniably beautiful, some might feel the time spent here is just enough for a quick walk and photo op, especially if you’re hoping for a swim. As one reviewer pointed out, “we only had 1 hour there, not nearly long enough if you want to swim or relax.” But if you’re a photo enthusiast or nature lover, the stop will leave you with plenty of stunning pictures.

Exploring Mostar’s Old Town

After leaving Kravice, it’s about a 2-hour drive to Mostar, arriving around midday. This charming town is famous for its Stari Most (Old Bridge), which has become a symbol of reconciliation and resilience. The guided walking tour takes you through the narrow cobbled streets of the Old Town, where you’ll see traditional Ottoman architecture, quaint shops, and historic sites.

The local guide is often praised for their knowledge — many reviews highlight guides who share insights about the bridge’s history, the significance of the Turkish House, and stories about local life. The Turkish House, included in your ticket, is the most visited museum in Mostar and offers a glimpse into Ottoman-era life. Many travelers found this museum worth the visit, adding depth to their understanding of the city’s past.

You’ll also visit the Mostar Mosque, which is accessible for visitors and provides a lovely view of the surrounding area. Expect about 3 hours in Mostar, which includes some free time to explore on your own. Many guests say that guides make the experience come alive, sharing stories and historical context that you’d likely miss on your own.

Lunch and Rest of the Day

Mostar’s Old Town is filled with cafes and restaurants, so you’ll have time to grab lunch at your own expense. Many reviews note that the local cuisine, especially the chevapi (traditional sausages), is delicious — a worthwhile treat after the morning’s sightseeing.

On the return journey, there’s a stop for Turkish coffee and a moment to relax. Some travelers comment that the long day — roughly 11 hours — can be tiring, especially with border checks and the drive time. However, many say the experience justifies the effort, citing the excellent guidance, beautiful scenery, and the cultural insights gained.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour’s maximum group size is 45, which is quite manageable for a day trip. Smaller groups tend to make the experience more personalized, but even larger groups are kept comfortable thanks to the modern, air-conditioned vehicles. Many reviews mention the comfortable transportation and punctual pick-ups, which helps make the day smooth.

What’s the Value?

At around $55 per person, this tour offers a solid value, especially considering the included guides, transport, and museum entry. The waterfalls alone are a major draw, and many travelers find the experience of walking across the Old Bridge and exploring the old town equally rewarding.

However, it’s worth noting that there are costs you’ll need to pay in cash — like the entrance fee for the waterfalls and the Turkish House — which can add up if you’re not prepared. Also, the long hours on the bus might be a challenge for some, and the limited time at each site can feel rushed if you’re eager to linger.

Real Traveler Insights

According to reviews, guides are generally very knowledgeable and friendly, with some describing them as “super helpful and courteous.” One reviewer mentioned the guide’s “no nonsense, fact-based style,” which can be a plus if you prefer straightforward information over overly theatrical presentations. Conversely, a couple of reviews noted difficulties hearing guides during busy moments, emphasizing the importance of mic systems in larger groups.

Many travelers emphasized the long travel time, with some noting that they spent around 8 hours on the bus due to border checks. For some, this was a minor drawback, but others felt the journey detracted from their overall experience. Still, most agree that the sights are worth it, especially if this is their first visit to the Balkans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you enjoy cultural history combined with natural beauty, this trip hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who want a guided experience, want to learn about Bosnia’s past, and don’t mind a lengthy day. The inclusion of free time allows for some personal exploration, but be prepared for a full schedule.

It’s suitable for travelers who value comfort and organization but might be less ideal if you’re looking for an ultra-relaxed day or have mobility issues. Those interested in photography will love the waterfalls and Old Bridge, but should keep an eye on the clock if they want to maximize their time at each site.

FAQ

Do I need a visa for this trip?
Yes, a valid passport is required for border crossing into Bosnia-Herzegovina. Make sure to check visa requirements for your nationality before the trip.

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, a local guide in Mostar, and entry to the Turkish House. Entrance fees for the waterfalls and tourist tax are paid separately.

How long is the drive on the bus?
The total travel time is around 8–10 hours, including border crossing, with approximately 2 hours spent traveling between sites.

Can I swim at Kravice Waterfalls?
Yes, during summer months when water levels are lower, you can take a short swim in the shallow pools.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally manageable for older children, especially those interested in nature and history. However, the long bus journey might be less ideal for very young children.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport, some cash for entrance fees and lunch, sun protection, water, and comfortable walking shoes.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews frequently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpfulness.

How much time do I get in Mostar?
You’ll have roughly 3 hours to explore, which includes guided touring and free time.

What if I change my mind or need to cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

Wrapping It Up

This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking for a day packed with sightseeing, history, and beautiful landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The guided tours and comfortable transport make it accessible, and the sights—especially Kravice Waterfalls and Mostar’s Old Bridge—are genuinely impressive.

While the long hours may be a challenge for some, the overall experience seems to justify the effort, especially if you value guided insights and well-organized logistics. It’s particularly suited for those eager to explore Bosnia’s highlights in a day, with enough free time to soak in the atmosphere and snap some photos.

If you’re craving a culturally rich, scenic day trip from Dubrovnik, this tour delivers a memorable taste of Bosnia’s natural and historic treasures. Just be prepared for a full day, and you’ll come away with plenty of stories—and photos—to share.