From Dubrovnik: Day Trip to Mostar and Kravice Falls

Exploring Mostar and Kravice Falls from Dubrovnik: A Guide to the Popular Day Trip

If you’re visiting Dubrovnik and craving a taste of nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina, the day trip to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls offers a compelling blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. While we haven’t experienced this exact tour ourselves, countless travelers have praised its highlights, making it a popular choice for those who want a meaningful excursion without straying too far.

What makes this trip particularly appealing? First, the spectacular views at Kravice Falls, where water cascades into a turquoise lake—an ideal spot for photos and cooling off on a warm day. Second, the guided walking tour of Mostar, which provides insight into the city’s complex past and vibrant present.

However, it’s worth noting that the journey involves a border crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina, which can add a little extra time and requires a passport or ID. This isn’t necessarily a flaw—it’s part of the adventure—but it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer more relaxed itineraries.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are looking for an easy, guided day, want to see two of the region’s most notable sites, and are comfortable with a full-day schedule that includes some lengthy drives. It balances natural beauty with cultural exploration, making it ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager for an authentic experience.

Key Points

• Natural wonder at Kravice Falls provides stunning photo opportunities and a refreshing escape.
• Expert guides enrich the experience with historical context and local insights.
• The convenient hotel pickup and drop-off save time and hassle.
• Flexible free time in Mostar allows travelers to explore and shop at their own pace.
• The cost includes transportation, guided tours, and a stop at the waterfalls, offering good value.
• Border crossings are quick, but passports or IDs are necessary depending on nationality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting early from Dubrovnik, the tour promises a smooth journey in a spacious, air-conditioned vehicle. We appreciated that the pickup is organized with a clear meeting point near your accommodation, communicated via email or WhatsApp, which cuts out unnecessary stress. The ride along the Croatian coast is scenic and relaxing, with a quick stop in the town of Neum for a bathroom break and coffee—an appreciated touch that helps break up the drive.

Kravice Waterfalls: An Enchanting Stop

Once you arrive at Kravice, you’ll pay an entrance fee (roughly $5-$10 per person, payable in Euros), which is not included in the tour price. The waterfalls are true nature’s spectacle, with numerous falls plunging into a crystal-clear lake surrounded by lush greenery. Many reviews highlight how beautiful and peaceful this spot is; one traveler described it as a “fairy-tale landscape” where the scenery feels almost untouched by crowds.

You’ll have time to take photos, relax by the water, or even take a quick dip if you’re feeling brave enough. If you prefer to stay dry, the view alone is worth the few euros. Some reviewers mention that the waterfall view from the parking lot is enough to enjoy the scenery without paying the entrance fee, but others loved the chance to get closer and experience the cool water firsthand.

The Journey to Mostar

After Kravice, the bus heads towards Mostar, crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina. This part of the trip is often praised for its scenic views—the drive through this region is filled with rolling hills, historic towns, and glimpses of local life. The border crossing is brief—just around 15 minutes—but it’s a good idea to have your passport or ID handy, especially for non-EU travelers.

Guided Tour of Mostar

In Mostar, a local guide will meet you to introduce you to the city’s fascinating past and vibrant present. The tour covers the Ottoman and Dalmatian architecture that gives the city its unique character. Travelers like Dinningson emphasize how the guide’s knowledge about the 90s war and ancient history made the visit more meaningful.

While the guided portion lasts about an hour, your free time in Mostar is flexible—generous enough for sightseeing, shopping, or lunch. Many enjoy strolling across the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge), an icon of reconciliation and resilience. Some reviews mention that the brief guided tour felt a bit rushed, but the free time makes up for it, giving travelers the chance to explore at their own pace.

More Great Tours Nearby

Optional Activities and Free Time

The three hours of free time are a highlight, according to many travelers. You’ll find plenty of shops selling traditional crafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies, plus cafes and restaurants offering hearty Bosnian cuisine.

Some travelers, like Carolina, note that more time in Kravice or Mostar would be ideal but appreciate the overall value. Others mention that the short visit to Kravice means missing out on longer relaxation by the waterfalls, but the scenery is nonetheless well worth it.

Practical Aspects and Value

The cost of $71 per person covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour of Mostar, and the stop at Kravice Falls. Entrance fees, tourist tax, and food are extra, but the overall package offers solid value for a full day of sightseeing.

The tour duration is approximately 12 hours—starting early in the morning and returning late evening—which means you’ll see plenty but also spend quite a bit of time on the road. The group size tends to be manageable, and the vehicle is described as spacious, which contributes to a comfortable journey.

Most travelers agree that the guides make a difference—knowledgeable, friendly, and responsible—adding depth to the experience. The reviews consistently highlight excellent guides, whether it’s the driver or the local in Mostar, as key to making the trip enjoyable.

What Travelers Should Consider

• Border crossing: Be sure to bring your passport or ID depending on your nationality, as this is a border crossing that takes about 15 minutes.
• Time management: The tour’s tight schedule means you won’t be able to see everything in detail. Prioritize what interests you most—whether it’s the waterfalls, the bridge, or shopping.
• Entrance fees: Budget for about $5-$10 in Euros for Kravice entrance and tourist tax.
• Comfort: The length of the drive (around 2.5 hours each way, sometimes more depending on border traffic) is considerable, so prepare for a long day.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want to see a stunning natural site and experience Bosnian culture without dedicating multiple days. It’s suitable for those who enjoy guided insights but also want some free time for personal exploration. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors to the region, or for anyone looking for an easy, all-in-one experience that covers history, scenery, and local life in one day.

If you’re a traveler who prefers more relaxed pacing or wants to linger longer at each site, you might find the limited free time a little restrictive. But for most, the blend of guided touring and independent exploration strikes a good balance.

FAQ

Do I need a passport or ID?
You need your passport or ID card depending on your nationality. EU citizens only require an ID, but others need a passport for the border crossing.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for families, but keep in mind the full-day schedule and long bus rides. Bring snacks and entertainment for the journey.

How much does the entrance to Kravice Waterfalls cost?
The entrance fee is payable in Euros, roughly $5-$10 per person, and is not included in the tour price.

Can I stay longer in Mostar or Kravice?
No, the tour includes only a day-trip stay; you must return to Dubrovnik the same day.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, some cash (Euros), and appropriate clothing for the weather. If you want to swim, bring a towel and swimwear.

Is there a lunch included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are plenty of options during your free time in Mostar.

How long is the drive each way?
The drive to Mostar takes about 2.5 hours each way, depending on border traffic.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour offers services in English, Croatian, and Spanish.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, this day trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture at a reasonable price. It’s best suited for travelers who want a guided experience with enough free time to explore on their own. Expect beautiful scenery, engaging guides, and a taste of Bosnia’s resilient spirit—all in a full, satisfying day.

You can check availability for your dates here: