Herzegovina
Limestone peaks, waterfalls, and Mediterranean sun ☀️
Herzegovina feels distinct from the rest of the country, with a warmer climate, rocky limestone landscapes, and a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. The center of tourism is Mostar, famous for its Stari Most (Old Bridge). While the bridge itself is slippery and steep, the riverbanks below offer a safe spot for families to dip their feet in the icy Neretva River and watch local divers perform daring jumps. The old bazaar is lively and colorful, though parents with strollers may find the large cobblestones challenging to navigate; a carrier is often a better choice for infants.
South of Mostar, the Kravice Waterfalls are a highlight for summer travel. Unlike many protected waterfalls in Europe, swimming is allowed here. The natural pool at the base is refreshing, and a small train transports visitors down the hill, which is a hit with younger children. For a history lesson, the fortified town of Počitelj offers stone towers to climb, while Blagaj features a Dervish house built right into a cliff face next to a massive river spring. Further south, the town of Trebinje offers a relaxed town square shaded by plane trees, where families can enjoy gelato and visit the local market.
Nature and Wildlife: Hutovo Blato Nature Park offers boat safaris through marshlands teeming with birds, a quiet activity suitable for all ages. Adventurous families can visit Vjetrenica Cave, a lengthy tunnel system famous for its cool temperatures and the endemic "human fish" (olm) salamanders living in its underground pools. Summer temperatures in Herzegovina frequently exceed 35°C (95°F), so plan outdoor activities for the morning and carry plenty of water.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Mostar’s UNESCO-listed Stari Most and the Ottoman-era architecture of Počitelj offer a world-class cultural fusion that is both authentic and visually stunning. Peak summer provides the dry, sunny weather necessary for exploring stone-paved old towns, while the high winter rainfall (exceeding 200mm) significantly diminishes the experience.
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Home to the turquoise Neretva River and the rugged Prenj mountains, Herzegovina offers elite white-water rafting and karst hiking. Mid-summer months are peak due to minimal rainfall and optimal river conditions, whereas heavy precipitation from October to April makes mountain trails and river activities hazardous.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
The scenic drive through the Neretva Canyon and across the sun-bleached landscapes to Trebinje is one of Europe's most beautiful and authentic routes. Peak months offer maximum visibility and dry roads; the shoulder seasons are pleasant, but the intense winter rains create poor driving conditions and obscure the views.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
Features the historic Ćiro cycle trail and world-class fly-fishing on the Buna River, attracting active travelers seeking authentic terrain. Summer is peak for cycling and water sports with its dry climate, while the region’s extreme winter humidity and rainfall make outdoor sports impractical.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Neum provides Herzegovina's access to the Adriatic Sea and Kravice Waterfalls offer swimming, providing good options for water activities. Peak months (Jul-Aug) offer ideal hot temperatures and calm seas; shoulder months (Jun, Sep) are warm and pleasant for water activities; off-season months are too cold for swimming.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
The region serves as an open-air museum of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian history, complemented by the spiritual significance of Medjugorje. Peak and shoulder months provide comfortable conditions for visiting outdoor archaeological sites, which become less accessible during the very wet winter months.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Authentic cultural events like the historic Mostar bridge diving competition and wine harvest festivals in Trebinje draw sophisticated crowds. These key international events are clustered in the dry summer and early autumn, with very few significant cultural gatherings occurring during the wet winter period.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Discerning travelers can enjoy high-quality wine tourism in the Vranac vineyards and spiritual peace in quiet stone retreats. The dry, Mediterranean heat of July and August is optimal for terrace relaxation and vineyard stays, while the excessive winter rain lacks the necessary sunshine for a wellness-focused trip.
Winter sports, ski resorts, snow activities
Blidinje Nature Park offers potential for winter sports, but the region is not highlighted for world-class ski infrastructure for discerning international travelers. Peak months for snow are likely Jan-Feb; Dec and Mar may offer shoulder season skiing with variable conditions; other months are unsuitable due to lack of snow.
