From Split or Trogir: Tour to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls

If you’re considering a day trip from Split or Trogir into the neighboring country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, this tour offers a solid way to combine history, culture, and nature. It’s a full-day adventure that promises to take you from the Adriatic coast into the rocky landscapes of Herzegovina, with stops at the iconic Old Bridge of Mostar and the scenic Kravice Waterfalls.

What we like about this experience is the chance to learn about Ottoman architecture from knowledgeable guides and to enjoy some spectacular natural scenery. Plus, the opportunity to walk across the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge and relax by a picturesque waterfall makes it a well-rounded cultural and outdoor experience.

One thing to consider before booking is that the drive between Trogir or Split and Bosnia-Herzegovina can take over an hour, so patience with traffic and weather is key. Also, while the tour covers some wonderful sights, the Kravice Waterfalls might feel a bit underwhelming compared to larger waterfalls like Plitvice Lakes—some travelers mention it’s a quick visit and not as large as they’d hoped.

This tour suits travelers looking for a day trip that balances cultural exploration and natural beauty, especially if you enjoy learning from local guides and don’t mind a full day on the road. It’s a good choice for those who value history, authentic local experiences, and scenic views without needing a very hands-on outdoor adventure.

Key Points

• Expert guides enrich the experience with local insights and history.
• UNESCO-listed Old Bridge of Mostar is a highlight for its beauty and cultural significance.
• The tour includes a visit to Kravice Waterfalls, perfect for photos and a quick swim.
• The trip takes about full day, including transportation time, so prepare for a long but rewarding journey.
• Value for money is generally good, especially considering transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees.
• Be prepared with cash in euros or Bosnian currency—credit cards are rarely accepted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour departs from Split or Trogir, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle covering the highway. The ride offers a chance to see some of the scenic landscapes of the Dalmatian coast and Herzegovina, which are quite striking with rocky hills and agricultural land.

Travel time between the starting point and Mostar is over an hour, a fact that travelers should keep in mind to manage expectations for the day’s pacing. The group size isn’t specified, but given the nature of guided tours in this price range, it’s likely a small to medium group, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the commentary.

Exploring Mostar

Once in Mostar, the real gem is the Old Bridge (Stari Most). Built in the 16th century, this bridge is a marvel of Islamic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking across it, you’ll get a sense of how this city was a vital crossroads of east and west. The bridge’s reconstruction after the 1990s conflict symbolizes resilience, and it’s a frequent photo stop.

Your local guide will walk you through Mostar’s historic bazaar, where you can browse artisan shops and sample local tasty food and coffee—a cultural experience reminiscent of Turkey, with a friendly, relaxed vibe. The guide’s insight is often praised; one review notes that the guide from Mostar was “fabulous” and very knowledgeable about the city’s history and culture.

The Ottoman Influence and Local Culture

The guided walk offers a chance to learn about Ottoman architecture and how the city transitioned through different regimes—from Ottoman rule to Austro-Hungarian influence and beyond. The streets of Mostar are filled with oriental-style buildings, giving the city a distinctive character compared to the Dalmatian coast’s more Mediterranean aesthetic.

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Lunch and Free Time

While the tour price doesn’t include food, the guide will likely recommend cafes and restaurants along the Old Bridge area. Travelers often enjoy sitting on terraces with views of the river and sampling traditional Bosnian dishes. Bring some cash in euros or Bosnian marks, as credit cards aren’t always accepted, and change can be scarce—one reviewer mentioned ending the tour with some useless Croatian kuna because of this.

The Drive to Kravice Waterfalls

After exploring Mostar, the journey continues through rocky Herzegovina landscapes to the Kravice Waterfalls. These waterfalls are a popular picnic and swimming spot—though some visitors find them smaller and less dramatic than other famous waterfalls like Plitvice Lakes. According to a review, the waterfalls are “gorgeous,” but the visit can feel rushed, with limited time to fully enjoy the water or relax.

At Kravice, you’ll enjoy stunning views and the chance to dip into the cool waters—a refreshing break after the car ride. Be sure to bring swimwear, towel, and waterproof camera.

Visiting and Returning

After spending some time at the waterfalls, you’ll head back to the starting point, arriving in Split or Trogir in the late afternoon or early evening. It’s a full day, but the journey is smooth and the scenery, varied.

Analyzing the Value

For $88, this tour offers a lot: guided cultural insights, transport, entrance fees, and the opportunity to see two very different sides of Bosnia-Herzegovina. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide makes a big difference in meaningful sightseeing, especially in a city like Mostar, where history and architecture are best appreciated with context.

However, some travelers note that the waterfalls might be less impressive than expected, and the time spent there is limited. The additional cost of €10 for entrance to the park is reasonable, considering the upkeep and preservation of the site.

The challenge lies in the cost of cash—credit cards aren’t widely accepted, which could cause inconvenience for some. Also, the long drive means you should be prepared for a full day on the road, but most find that the scenic views and cultural richness compensate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those eager to see a UNESCO World Heritage site in Mostar, learn about Ottoman architecture, and enjoy a scenic outdoor setting at Kravice. It’s perfect if you’re seeking an efficient overview without the hassle of planning separate transportation or guides. It’s also suitable if you’re comfortable with a full day of travel and want to avoid overly commercialized excursions.

Travelers interested in history, culture, and natural beauty will find this tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Bosnia and Herzegovina’s diverse landscape and heritage. It’s also a good choice for those who enjoy guided storytelling and local flavor.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves a fair amount of walking and travel, it can be suitable for families with children comfortable with full-day outings. However, those with mobility impairments should note that the tour may not be accessible, as indicated in the details.

Do I need a visa or special documents?
You only need your passport or ID card to cross into Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is straightforward for most travelers from Croatia.

How much free time do I have at each stop?
The tour includes guided walks in Mostar and a limited amount of time at Kravice. The waterfalls are a quick visit, and the guide might not have time for extensive swimming or relaxing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, swimwear, camera, and some cash in euros or Bosnian currency are recommended. Remember that credit cards aren’t widely accepted, and change may be scarce.

How long is the drive between locations?
The drive from Split or Trogir to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls takes over an hour each way, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Is lunch included?
No, but there are plenty of options in Mostar’s old town. Be prepared to pay for your own food and drinks.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded day combining cultural landmarks and natural beauty, with the benefit of local guides who bring history alive. The Old Bridge of Mostar alone makes it worth the trip, and the waterfalls add a refreshing outdoor element.

While the waterfalls may not match the grandeur of larger sites like Plitvice, they still provide a lovely backdrop for photos and a quick dip. The long drive is manageable thanks to scenic views, and the overall value is good considering the guided experience, transportation, and entrance fees.

If you’re eager to see Mostar’s iconic bridge, experience Bosnian hospitality, and enjoy some beautiful scenery, this trip is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, worry-free day that balances culture and nature without overextending their travel plans.

In short, this tour is a dependable, culturally enriching option for those wanting a snapshot of Bosnia-Herzegovina with manageable logistics. Just bring patience for the drive, cash for expenses, and an appetite for intriguing stories and stunning vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: