Wondering which city to visit: Sarajevo or Mostar? If you have to decide between the two, this guide breaks down all you need to know about the two cities.
Sarajevo and Mostar are like two sides of a coin – similar and yet so different. There is a lot to discover in both cities, a lot to learn and numerous day trips all around.
And I've lost my heart to both places, whether it's Mostar's stone Ottoman old town, its wide avenues and the emerald green Neretva, or Sarajevo with its fusion of East and West, green hills and historic sites.
But sometimes you just have to choose, there's no time to visit both cities in one trip. So if you only have a short time in Bosnia and Herzegovina and are asking yourself: which city should I visit, Sarajevo or Mostar, then you will find the answer here.
Which of the two is cheaper?
I would say that both cities are in the same price range – but are still quite affordable compared to many main European tourist sites. Accommodation, eating out, and activities are around the same price in both cities.
Even though Sarajevo is the pricier capital, Mostar is the main tourist attraction of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which means you'll have to expect higher prices in the touristy part of town. Both cities offer options for both, budget and luxury travellers.
It's a tie pricewise.
Which city has better accommodation?
Sarajevo offers a wide range of accommodationsfrom 5* hotels to budget hostels or apartments. Here, you can find more options for different preferences and budgets. Due to its location, accommodation in Mostar's old town is limited with fewer hotel options, but you can still find plenty of charming guest houses and apartments. The old town of Mostar has a very intimate feel, especially in the early mornings or evenings. Both cities also offer great accommodations in the suburbs or nature surrounding the cities, such as villas with pool close to Mostar or wellness hotels on Sarajevo's mountains.
But all in all, Sarajevo offers better accommodation.
Which city has the better food?
If you are like me and love travelling for food, then I can tell you that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a foodie's paradise! While the cities are only a two-hour drive away from each other, different traditions, landscapes and climates make the cuisines of Sarajevo and Mostar differ from one another slightly. Both cities, however, sport a great food scene.
Whereas in Sarajevo, locals and tourists like eating out in the restaurants of Baščaršija, the old town , Mostar has become so touristy that locals normally don't eat in the restaurants around the old bridge. Quite a few of those have, unfortunately, become tourist traps with pre-fried dishes that are just heated up, overpriced drinks and overall mediocre quality.
Because of that, I would say, Sarajevo has the better food.
Is nature better in Sarajevo or Mostar?
Both cities are the perfect place to stay for outdoor lovers – it just depends on what you're looking for. If you stay in Sarajevo, the Olympic mountains are just a stone's throw away. I have been up Trebević countless times for a quick after work hike, that's how close nature is. If you are looking for more adventure, you can go rafting or climbing within an hour's drive.
Mostar's natural beauty is more Mediterranean, with countless rivers and waterfalls winding through the landscape. If you are looking for a respite from the summer heat, you don't have to drive far – every time we are in Herzegovina, we discover a new local beach kupalište. Apart from swimming, you can go hiking, rock climbing or kayaking just an hour's drive from the city.
Both cities are equally scenic and outdoorsy, it's a tie.
Is nightlife better in Sarajevo or Mostar?
Mostar is a much smaller city than Sarajevo, with many people just visiting for the day. While you will definitely find some bars and cafés that are open later in the evening, nightlife is more relaxed and laid-back.
If you are looking for clubbing and a wider range of bars and restaurants, Sarajevo offers a better choice. Before going, make sure to also check out Garden of Dreams and Sarajevo Matinée – both host regular parties in the city.
If you are looking for party, instead of Mostar, head to Sarajevo.
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Which city has the best old town: Sarajevo or Mostar?
Both Mostar and Sarajevo are popular for their well-preserved old town. Sarajevo is a city with a rich past and history, Mostar boasts the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Old Brige, Stari Most.
If you are just looking at the old towns of the two places, then Sarajevo might just fall a tad short of Mostar – just because the cobblestoned streets in the old bazaar of the southern city are incredibly quaint and well-preserved.
Mostar has the better old town.
Which city has the best sights?
Sarajevo, the "Jerusalem of Europe" is known for it's mix of eastern and western architecture and cultures, which makes it one of the most interesting to visit among the European capitals. Much of the city feels like an outdoor museum, and there is something from a different time period or culture to discover behind every corner. For those interested in history, Sarajevo is the place to visit! The city also offers many free cultural events, especially in the summer.
In comparison, Mostar is more of a residential city outside its old town. Yes, there are things to see and do besides the UNESCO protected area of course, but compared to Sarajevo city, they fall a bit shirt in my opinion.
Compared to Mostar, there is more to see in Sarajevo.
Is Sarajevo or Mostar better for day trips?
Just an hour's drive from Mostar, you find Kravice waterfalls and the Blagaj Tekke– two of the most popular sights in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Croatia is just a stone's throw away – you can even do a day trip to Dubrovnik – and countless Wineries and rivers are waiting to be discovered.
Around Sarajevo, the Olympic mountains make not only a scenic backdrop, but are also a great place for outdoor adventures. You can head to Jajce, Travnik or even the Sutjeska-Nationalpark for the day.
Both cities are equally great as a base for day trips, it's a tie.
Mostar vs Sarajevo: Where is better weather?
Sarajevo has a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters. Snow falls on the Olympic mountains in winter, which means Sarajevo is also a ski city. Mostar, on the other hand, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and milder, rainy winters. In spring and autumn, temperatures are pleasant and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
This depends on your personal preferences – I love the Mediterranean Mostar weather more.
Which city is better for families?
Mostar is overcrowded, especially in summer, and the old town is already too stressful for me, so I can only imagine that a visit would also be stressful for families with children. In general, however, the surroundings of Mostar offer many activities in nature, also for families with children.
Sarajevo has numerous parks on offer, interactive museums where children can also have great experiences and generally offers better infrastructure and accommodation for families with children. Even on a rainy day, no-one will be bored here - whether young or old.
Sarajevo is better for families.
Is Sarajevo or Mostar better for solo travellers?
You can see all of Mostar in a couple of hours, which means many people just visit for the day and don't book an overnight stay. This can make the city a bit quiet in the evenings, especially in the shoulder season.
In comparison, the Bosnian capital is a great city for solo travellers. It offers many more opportunities for solo travellers. There are many hotels, even within walking distance of the old town, and WhatsApp and Facebook groups for socialising. You can also meet other solo travellers on tours or at events.
Sarajevo is better for solo travellers.
Which city is easier to fly into?
Sarajevo International Airport is definitely better connected! However, from there, you can make it via bus or train from Sarajevo to Mostar. I would even recommend taking the train if you can because the journey to Mostar is also one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.
Mostar can also be reached within two hours from Dubrovnik or Split airport. However, border crossings with a hire car from the EU to a non-European country are often complicated and more expensive.It is therefore better to fly directly to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The flight connections to the capital are much better.
Final verdict: Sarajevo or Mostar?
I would recommend visiting both cities - each has its own charm, history and unique atmosphere. However, if you have to choose one city, I hope this guide will help you make the right choice.
