Bosnia and Croatia are two of the most beautiful countries in the Balkans, and combining them into one 3 week road trip gives you the perfect mix of historic cities, turquoise rivers, waterfalls, national parks, charming old towns, islands, beaches, and scenic mountain roads.
This itinerary is ideal if you want to go beyond the classic Croatia highlights and add a more adventurous, less crowded part of the Balkans to your trip. Bosnia and Herzegovina brings the culture, history, waterfalls, mountain scenery, and beautiful Ottoman towns, while Croatia adds the Adriatic coastline, islands, medieval cities, national parks, and some of the prettiest beach stops in Europe.
In this 3 week Bosnia and Croatia itinerary, I’m sharing the perfect road trip route, where to stay, how long to spend in each place, the best things to do along the way, and practical tips to help you plan your own Balkan adventure.
Where to start & end your Balkan road trip
For this 3 week Bosnia and Croatia itinerary, I’d recommend starting and ending your road trip in Sarajevo. This makes the route very practical because you can turn it into a loop, which means you don’t have to return your rental car in a different country or city.
🚗 Rent a car by using SunnyCars. There’s never any hidden costs with them and free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start. Their price is transparent and everything is included.
Starting in Sarajevo also works really well for the route itself. After exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina, you can drive towards Una National Park and cross the border into Croatia from there. This brings you straight towards Plitvice Lakes National Park, which makes a lot of sense geographically and avoids unnecessary backtracking.
From there, you can continue your Croatia road trip through places like Istria, the Dalmatian coast, the islands, Split, and Dubrovnik. Later on, when driving from Dubrovnik to Mostar, you’ll cross the border back into Bosnia and Herzegovina, before eventually making your way back to Sarajevo.
This way, the itinerary flows naturally and gives you a beautiful mix of Bosnia’s historic towns, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain scenery, combined with Croatia’s national parks, islands, beaches, and coastal cities. Just make sure your rental car is allowed to cross borders and that you have all the necessary insurance documents before leaving Sarajevo.
How much time do you need for this Balkan itinerary
For this Bosnia and Croatia itinerary, I’d recommend spending 3 weeks. This gives you enough time to explore both countries properly without feeling like every single day is just another long drive.
Bosnia and Croatia are both incredibly scenic, but distances can take longer than expected, especially when you add border crossings, mountain roads, ferry rides, national parks, and all the little stops you’ll want to make along the way. With 3 weeks, you can enjoy Sarajevo, Jajce, Una National Park, Plitvice Lakes, Istria, the Dalmatian coast, the Croatian islands, Dubrovnik, Mostar, and a few extra stops without completely rushing through them.
You could shorten this itinerary to 2 weeks, but then I’d recommend cutting either Istria or some of the islands to keep the route realistic. For the full loop starting and ending in Sarajevo, 3 weeks really is the sweet spot. It gives you a beautiful mix of Bosnia’s waterfalls, rivers, history, and mountain scenery, combined with Croatia’s coastal towns, beaches, islands, and national parks.
Transportation for this Balkan itinerary
The best way to follow this Bosnia and Croatia itinerary is by rental car. It gives you the freedom to visit national parks, waterfalls, beaches, viewpoints, small towns, and scenic stops that would be much harder to reach by public transport.
I’d recommend picking up and returning your rental car in Sarajevo. Since this route is designed as a loop, you avoid extra drop-off fees and can easily cross into Croatia near Una National Park before continuing to Plitvice, Istria, the coast, Dubrovnik, and back into Bosnia towards Mostar.
🚗 Rent a car by using SunnyCars. There’s never any hidden costs with them and free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start. Their price is transparent and everything is included.
Before booking, make sure your rental company allows cross-border travel into Croatia and provides the right insurance documents. Border crossings are usually straightforward, but they can take extra time in summer.
Driving in Bosnia and Croatia is very doable, but distances can take longer than expected because of mountain roads, ferries, border crossings, and coastal traffic. Keep some cash for parking, tolls, ferries, entrance fees, and smaller restaurants along the way.
💡 TIP – Make sure to stick to the speed limits in Bosnia cause there are speed cameras around every corner.
Best time to visit Bosnia – Herzegovina & Croatia
The best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia is in late spring or early autumn, especially in May, June, September, and early October. During these months, the weather is usually warm enough for exploring cities, waterfalls, national parks, beaches, and islands, but without the intense heat and biggest crowds of peak summer.
For this 3 week Balkan itinerary, June and September are probably the best months. Bosnia and Herzegovina is beautifully green, waterfalls usually still have plenty of water, and Croatia is already warm enough for swimming and island hopping. At the same time, places like Plitvice Lakes, Dubrovnik, Split, and the Croatian coast are much more enjoyable than in the middle of summer.
Where to stay during this Balkan road trip
Before we dive into our 3 week Balkan itinerary itself, here’s a list of the exact accommodations that we stayed at and how many days.
Cottages Relax – 2 nights
Cottages Relax is the perfect base for exploring the area of Jajce and Pliva Lake, without a big price ticket being attached to it. The location is absolutely perfect and the view from the chalet is a million dollar one! The chalet comes with its own jacuzzi and also has an infra-red sauna inside.
B&B Plitvica Creek – 2 nights
If you’re planning to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, staying at B&B Plitvica Creek is an absolute no-brainer. This charming guesthouse is just a short drive from Entrance 1, but feels worlds away—surrounded by forest, with the soothing sound of the creek flowing nearby.
Apartments Cvek – 3 nights
We loved Apartments Cvek for its quiet location just outside the Old Town of Rovinj, which meant we could easily walk to the main sights in under 10 minutes but still enjoy peaceful mornings and quiet evenings. The apartment was clean, spacious, and had a little terrace where we could relax after a day of exploring. There’s also free parking on-site, which is a huge bonus if you’re doing a Croatia road trip like we did.
The Residence – 2 nights
We stayed at The Residence during our road trip and loved how modern, spacious, and thoughtfully designed the apartment was. One of the biggest highlights? The swimming pool. It’s shared, but never felt crowded, and was the perfect place to cool off after a hot day exploring Krka National Park or wandering the Old Town of Sibenik. The apartment is tucked away in a quiet residential area, with easy parking and just a short drive to everything you’d want to see. Add in a comfy bed, a sunny little balcony for your morning coffee, and a super friendly host—and it’s a stay we’d book again in a heartbeat.
Apartment Petro Oldtown – 2 nights
If you’re planning to explore Split’s historic center, Apartment Petro Oldtown is the perfect place to stay. Located just a stone’s throw from Diocletian’s Palace, this stylish and spotlessly clean apartment puts you right in the heart of the action—yet it’s tucked away enough to feel peaceful and private. We loved being able to walk to the waterfront, local cafés, and all the main sights within minutes.
Mansion Hvar – 3 nights
If you’re looking for a peaceful, authentic stay on Hvar, Mansion Hvar is an absolute gem. Tucked away in the tiny, abandoned village of Malo Grablje, this charming guesthouse offers a completely different side of the island—quiet, rustic, and full of soul. We stayed here during our trip and it was one of our favorite experiences: from the incredible homemade breakfasts to the warm hospitality and stunning views over the surrounding hills, everything felt personal and special. It’s the perfect base for exploring nearby beaches like Milna and Lučišća Bay, while still feeling like you’re a world away from the crowds.
Pearl of Adriatic – 1 night
If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in Dubrovnik, Pearl of Adriatic is an absolute gem. We stayed here during our trip and completely fell in love with it. The apartment offers a breathtaking view over the Old Town and Lokrum Island, which made every sunrise and sunset feel magical. It’s also just a short walk to the city walls, so you can pop into the Old Town in minutes without dealing with crowds or steep hills. The location, comfort, and that unforgettable view make it a stay we’d book again in a heartbeat.
Old Town Oasis – 2 nights
If you’re looking for a stay in Mostar that combines epic views with a very good price, then Old Town Oasis is the one you should book! The appartement itself is simple with 1 bedroom, a kitchen, a living area and a small bathroom. But the view, the location and the price simply can’t be beat! We booked the appartement on the ground floor, the ones on the top floor don’t come with a garden terrace.
Central Apartments Sarajevo – 1 night
If you’re looking for a stay in Sarajevo then I highly recommend staying at Central Apartments Sarajevo. As their name already suggests, these modern and stylishly decorated apartments are centrally located in the capital city. Within 15 minutes walking you’ll find yourself in the heart of Old Town Sarajevo.
The apartments have 2 bedrooms and right across from it is a shopping mall with an underground parking lot.
The Ultimate Bosnia and Croatia Itinerary for 3 Weeks
Day 1 – 2
Jajce & Piva Lakes
Driving time – 2.5 hours ( 158km)
After landing in Sarajevo and picking up our rental car, it was time to properly start our Balkan road trip. We left the capital behind and made our way towards Jajce, one of the most beautiful and underrated towns in the country.
Jajce is best known for its impressive waterfall, which is located right in the middle of town. It’s not every day that you see a waterfall crashing down at the edge of a historic city center, and it makes Jajce feel incredibly special from the moment you arrive. The town itself is also lovely to explore, with its old fortress, charming streets, and beautiful views over the surrounding landscape.
We spent our time wandering around the historic center, visiting the waterfall, and taking in the views from above. Jajce has a much quieter feel than Sarajevo, which made it a perfect second stop on our itinerary.
Close to Jajce, you’ll find the beautiful Pliva Lakes, which ended up being one of our favorite places in the area. The water is calm and surrounded by greenery, making it a lovely spot to slow down, go for a walk, take photos, or simply enjoy the peaceful scenery.
One of the highlights near Pliva Lakes is the collection of old wooden watermills. They’re incredibly photogenic and give this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina such a fairytale-like feeling. It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a packed schedule; just take your time and enjoy the surroundings.
I recommend spending two days in this area so you don’t have to rush. You can use one day to explore Jajce itself and another to enjoy Pliva Lakes, the watermills, and the nearby viewpoints. It’s a wonderful combination of history, nature, and peaceful landscapes, and a great contrast after the buzz of Sarajevo.
🎫 TOUR – From Sarajevo: Jajce, Travnik, Pliva Lake & Watermill Tour
📖 READ MORE – 7 Top Things To Do in Jajce
Day 3
Una National Park
Driving time – 2.5 hours ( 166km)
On day 3 of our Balkan itinerary, we visited Una National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in the country. Located in the northwestern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to the Croatian border, this national park is all about emerald rivers, waterfalls, forested landscapes, and peaceful scenery.
The star of Una National Park is the Una River, famous for its incredibly clear turquoise water. It’s the kind of place that instantly makes you want to slow down and spend the day surrounded by nature.
One of the main highlights in the park is Štrbački Buk, a spectacular series of waterfalls and cascades surrounded by lush greenery. The sound of the water, the bright blue-green colors, and the wooden walkways make it one of the most impressive places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Another beautiful place to visit inside Una National Park is Martin Brod. This peaceful village is home to more waterfalls, wooden bridges, and some truly beautiful river scenery. It feels quieter and a little more tucked away than Štrbački Buk, which makes it a lovely stop if you want to explore a different side of the park.
Una National Park does require a bit of a detour compared to the more classic Sarajevo–Mostar route, but for us, it was absolutely worth it. It adds a completely different side to the itinerary and shows just how diverse Bosnia and Herzegovina really is.
I recommend setting aside most of the day for this visit, especially because the driving distances in this part of the country can take longer than expected. Take your time, enjoy the waterfalls, stop for photos along the way, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere before continuing your road trip.
🎫 TOUR – Bihać: Rafting adventure in the heart of the national park
📖 READ MORE – Visiting Una National Park – The Ultimate Guide
Day 4
A Full-Day Adventure at Plitvice Lakes National Park
Driving time – 1.5 hours ( 42km)
After a peaceful night near the entrance of Plitvice Lakes National Park, we woke up early and made our way to Entrance 1, ready for a full day of exploring one of Croatia’s most iconic natural wonders.
We decided to follow Route C, which starts at Entrance 1 and takes you through the most famous sights of the Lower and Upper Lakes. The powerful roar of the Great Waterfall (Veliki slap) greeted us right at the beginning, setting the tone for what felt like a walk through a fairytale.
The path took us across crystal-clear lakes, past cascading falls, and through peaceful forest trails. Around midday, we stopped for our prepacked lunch inside the park.
After lunch, we continued along the trail and eventually decided to switch from Route C to Route H, which follows a more peaceful, less crowded return route back to Entrance 1. It was the perfect decision. Not only did it give us a chance to see different perspectives of the lakes, but it also allowed us to avoid the heaviest foot traffic coming through in the afternoon.
🎫 TOUR – Plitvice Lakes Tour: guaranteed tickets, train & boat trip
📖 READ MORE – Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park – The Ultimate Guide
Day 5-8
Istria
Driving time – 3.5 hours ( 240km)
Day 5 – Arrive in Rovinj & Explore the Old Town
We based ourselves in Rovinj, and honestly? It was the perfect decision. This picture-perfect town is everything you hope for on the Istrian coast: cobbled alleys, sea-view terraces, and a golden light that makes every corner feel romantic.
Wander the narrow streets, stop in at a few local boutiques, and make your way up to the Church of St. Euphemia for one of the best panoramic views in town.
📖 READ MORE – The Ultimate Travel Guide to Rovinj, Croatia – Best Things to Do, Eat & See in Istria’s Prettiest Town
Walk along the waterfront promenade and find a cozy terrace for lunch. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring or even take a dip at Monte Beach.
Grab dinner at a local konoba (you’ll find plenty tucked in the old town), and don’t miss watching the sunset from the rocks near the harbor. It’s unreal.
💡 TIP – We had dinner at San Tommaso two evenings in a row simply cause we loved the food, the ambience and the view so much! They have a delicious truffle pasta on their menu which is always a winner for me!
Day 6 – Poreč, Novigrad, Grožnjan & Motovun
This day was all about discovering the charm of inland and coastal Istria—from ancient basilicas to artistic hilltop towns, every stop had its own vibe.
- Morning – Start with Poreč, home to the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica. It’s a peaceful little town with a blend of Roman ruins and seaside cafés. Afterward, continue up the coast to Novigrad, a laid-back fishing town with colorful houses and a beautiful seaside promenade.
📖 READ MORE – Visiting Novigrad, Croatia – The Ultimate Travel Guide to Istria’s Hidden Coastal Gem
💡 TIP – We enjoyed a lovely brunch at Martis Forum Heritage Hotel & Residence. They had a cute and stylish terrace in the back where we could be at ease with César.
- Afternoon – Head inland to Grožnjan, an artist’s hilltop town filled with galleries and music drifting through the streets. We absolutely loved the peaceful, creative energy here.
💡 TIP – Grožnjan is absolutely not stroller friendly. It has the craziest cobblestones and we weren’t well prepared for these cause we didn’t bring our baby carrier with us. It was a very bumpy road for César…
- Evening – End your day in Motovun, one of Istria’s most famous hill towns. Walk the old walls, take in the views, and stay for dinner with a glass of local wine and something truffle-infused. Heaven!
Day 7 – Bale & Cape Kamenjak (Skip Pula!)
We started the day in Pula, but to be honest… it wasn’t for us. Aside from the Roman amphitheater, the vibe didn’t match the charm we found elsewhere. So if you’re short on time, skip it and go straight to Bale—a small town that completely surprised us.
- Morning – Head to Bale, a quiet and charming stone village with barely a tourist in sight. We loved how authentic it felt—just local life, narrow alleys, and blooming flowers.
- Afternoon – Drive down to Cape Kamenjak, one of Istria’s most beautiful natural spots. The water here is crystal clear, the cliffs are perfect for jumping, and the whole area feels wild and untouched. Don’t miss a drink at Safari Bar, hidden in the pine trees—it’s quirky, rustic, and unforgettable.
📖 READ MORE – Visiting Cape Kamenjak National Park – The Ultimate Guide
- Evening – Head back to Rovinj for your last coastal sunset and dinner.
Day 8 – Hum, Kotli & Off to Šibenik
On our final day in Istria, we packed up and slowly made our way southeast toward Šibenik, stopping at two hidden gems that felt like we’d stepped back in time.
- Morning – First stop was Hum—officially the smallest town in the world! It’s tiny, yes, but also incredibly charming with its stone houses, ancient church, and peaceful hilltop views.
- Late Morning – Just down the road is Kotli, an abandoned stone village with natural waterfalls and pools. If there’s been recent rain, you’ll find water flowing through the old mill ruins, creating a magical scene.
- Afternoon – Continue your drive toward Šibenik, with plenty of time for breaks and roadside stops. The scenery along the way is beautiful, especially as you start hugging the Dalmatian coast.
Day 9
Krka National Park
Driving time – 4.5 hours ( 428km)
After leaving the peaceful stone villages of Istria behind, we headed toward Krka National Park—and wow, what a change of scenery! Lush forests, wooden boardwalks, and waterfalls that look like they’ve been pulled straight out of a fairytale. It was the perfect way to kick off the Dalmatian leg of our road trip.
💡 TIP – If you’re visiting during the summer, book your tickets online in advance—especially if you want an early time slot. They do sell out.
After a good night’s sleep we arrived early in the morning and entered via the Lozovac entrance, which is super convenient if you’re driving.
💡 TIP – We made sure to arrive about 15 minutes before opening time and at 8am we were among the first ones to walk down to Skradinski Buk, the park’s most iconic waterfall—and yes, it’s just as stunning in real life as it looks in the photos.
The walk through the park is easy and absolutely beautiful, with wooden paths winding through emerald pools and shady trees. It’s an easy half-day activity, but you’ll want to slow down and take your time because the scenery is just so peaceful.
Instead of heading straight out, we decided to keep exploring and venture toward some of Krka’s lesser-known waterfalls. This was honestly the best decision. Away from the main trail, the park becomes quieter, wilder, and even more peaceful. We followed winding paths through shady forest and found smaller cascades that were just as magical—without a single tour group in sight.
Around midday, we stopped for lunch at a little restaurant inside the park, tucked away under the trees with a view of the water. The food was simple but so good—fresh meats, local bread and cheese, and ice-cold drinks.
🎫 TOUR – Krka National Park – All sights – Entrance ticket
📖 READ MORE – The Best Guide For Visiting The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
Day 10-12
Split
Driving time – 1 hour ( 99km)
Day 10 – Making our way towards Split
Next up was a quick stop in Primošten, another lovely seaside town known for its peninsula setting and photogenic old town. Even though we didn’t stay long, we loved stretching our legs and taking in the views of the boats and deep blue sea before heading further.
After soaking up the scenery, we drove south toward Trogir, a small but absolutely beautiful coastal town nestled on a tiny island between the mainland and Čiovo. We wandered through its UNESCO-listed old town, admired the Venetian architecture, and browsed a few local shops before settling in for lunch along the waterfront.
📖 READ MORE – Visiting Trogir – The Ultimate Guide to this Gorgeous Town
Before arriving at Split, we made a very short detour to visit Klis Fortress, perched high above the city with panoramic views of the entire coastline. Not only is it an incredibly well-preserved medieval stronghold, but if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize it as the filming location for Meereen. Walking through its stone corridors and towers with barely anyone else around made it easy to imagine the fortress in its full historic glory.
After arriving in Split, we checked into our accommodation for a 2-night stay, dropped off our bags, and went out for a walk through the Old Town—and honestly? I was so pleasantly surprised. I hadn’t expected to love it as much as I did, but the winding stone streets, lively piazzas, and Roman ruins all wrapped into daily life made it feel like a living museum with a Mediterranean twist.
Day 11 – Exploring the charm of Split
We set our alarms early to make the most of our second day in Split—and to beat the cruise ship crowds that tend to fill the Old Town by late morning. Our first stop was Diocletian’s Palace, and exploring it in the soft morning light, with barely anyone around, felt absolutely magical.
After wandering the palace ruins, we decided to stretch our legs and hike up to Marjan Hill. It’s not a long hike, but the stairs do get your heart rate up! At the top, we were rewarded with sweeping views over the Split rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic beyond. There’s a little café up there too, which makes a perfect stop for a cold drink or coffee with a view.
In the afternoon, we grabbed an Uber and headed to Kasjuni Beach, hoping for a chilled-out swim to round out the day. Unfortunately… it wasn’t quite what we expected. While the water itself was clear and beautiful, the vibe wasn’t ideal—lots of loud groups, people drinking, and an overall party-recovery atmosphere that just didn’t feel relaxing, especially with a young child in tow. We stayed for a bit but ended up heading back earlier than planned.
Day 12 – Leaving Split and traveling to Hvar
By late morning, we said goodbye to Split and took the car ferry to Hvar—which was super straightforward and a great way to switch gears into island mode.
We stayed at Mansion Hvar, a gorgeous villa-style accommodation close to the harbor town of Milna. It was the perfect place to unwind after a travel-heavy day—peaceful, surrounded by greenery, and just a short walk to the sea. That evening, we had dinner in Milna, at a cozy little restaurant by the harbor, with fresh seafood and a soft breeze rolling in off the water.
Day 13 – 15
Hvar
Day 13 – Hvar Town
We woke up to the soft morning light filtering through the shutters at Mansion Hvar, and were greeted with the smell of homemade breakfast—fresh bread, local cheese, fruit, and strong Croatian coffee. It was such a lovely, personal touch and honestly the kind of slow morning that sets the tone for a perfect island day.
After breakfast, we hopped in the car and made our way to Hvar Town. Even though it’s known for its glitz and nightlife, during the day it has a whole different energy—laid-back, sun-soaked, and full of charm. We strolled along the palm-lined harbor promenade and admired the Venetian architecture.
Next up was the climb to Fortica (Španjola Fortress)—and yes, it’s a bit of a workout, especially in the summer heat, but so worth it for those panoramic views. From the top, you get a postcard-perfect sweep of the terracotta rooftops, the Pakleni Islands, and the impossibly blue sea.
In the afternoon, we decided to skip the car and head to the beach on foot. Luckily, one of Hvar’s most beautiful hidden gems—Plaža Paščuka—was just a 15-minute walk from Mansion Hvar.
Day 14 – Stari Grad & Dubovica Beach
We started the day just like the one before—with another delicious homemade breakfast at Mansion Hvar. It’s honestly one of those simple rituals we came to love during our stay: fresh local ingredients, good coffee, and the kind of peace that only island mornings can bring.
After breakfast, we drove across the island to explore Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in all of Croatia. Compared to Hvar Town, it’s much quieter and more low-key, but still full of charm.
One of the highlights of our visit was the Tvrdalj Castle, a 16th-century Renaissance palace built by the poet Petar Hektorović. It’s a peaceful spot with a central fish pond, walled gardens, and poetic inscriptions carved into the stone walls.
In the afternoon, we made our way to Dubovica Beach, one of Hvar’s most iconic coves—and for good reason. The beach is a short (but slightly steep!) walk down from the main road, and once you get there, it’s all white pebbles, crystal-clear water, and a stunning stone house set right at the water’s edge. We spent the rest of the day swimming, reading, and soaking up the sun.
Day 15 – Last day on Hvar, ferry back to Split & driving to Dubrovnik
Driving time – 3 hours (233km)
Our last morning on Hvar started exactly the way it should—with a relaxed breakfast at Mansion Hvar and one more swim before saying goodbye to the island. We headed to Beach Mala Milna, a quiet little cove just minutes away, and it turned out to be the perfect final stop. The beach is small and peaceful, with gentle waves and that signature Hvar turquoise water.
📖 READ MORE – The Ultimate Hvar Travel Guide – Hidden Gems, Beaches & Local Tips You’ll Love
The drive to Dubrovnik took us around 3 hours, and while the skies stayed grey for most of the ride, things luckily started to clear up as we approached the city. We arrived in Dubrovnik in the late afternoon, checked into our accommodation, and couldn’t wait to stretch our legs and explore.
First stop? The Dubrovnik Pass. We picked it up right at the entrance to the Old Town, and it turned out to be such a good call—it covers entry to the city walls, museums, Fort Lovrijenac, and even includes public transport. Definitely worth it if you’re planning to visit the main sights!
We jumped right in with the famous city walls, and it was the perfect introduction to Dubrovnik. The views from up top are absolutely unreal—red rooftops, sea views, and fortress towers at every turn. Even after seeing it in photos so many times, walking the walls in person felt totally surreal.
As the sun started to dip, we made our way to Trattoria Carmen for dinner—tucked away on a quiet street just outside the main bustle. The setting was cozy and intimate, and the food was some of the best we had in Croatia. Fresh seafood, local wine, and that classic Dubrovnik charm—exactly what we needed after a long day on the road.
Day 16
Dubrovnik
Driving time – 2.5 hour (136km)
We woke up early on our last morning in Dubrovnik, wanting to soak up just a little more of the city before hitting the road. Exploring the Old Town in the early morning is honestly one of the best things you can do—it’s quiet, the light is soft and golden, and for a moment, you feel like you’ve got it all to yourself.
We made our way down to the West Harbor (Kolorina Bay)—the little cove just outside the city walls, tucked beneath Fort Lovrijenac. It’s such a peaceful spot with crystal-clear water and incredible views of the walls. We didn’t swim this time, but it’s definitely the kind of place you’ll want to return to with a towel and a bit more time.
After that, we visited the Rector’s Palace, one of the most beautiful buildings in Dubrovnik. Its Gothic-Renaissance architecture, peaceful courtyard, and fascinating exhibits gave us a glimpse into the city’s political past—and it was a great way to wrap up our visit with a little culture.
By late morning, we said goodbye to Dubrovnik and started the drive back into Bosnia & Herzegovina towards Mostar.
📖 READ MORE – 10 Unmissable Things to Do in Dubrovnik – A Complete Guide to Croatia’s Pearl
Day 17-19
Mostar
For our final days in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we made our way to Mostar, one of the most beautiful and iconic places in the country. After the waterfalls, lakes, and national parks of the previous days, Mostar felt like the perfect place to slow down and soak up the atmosphere.
We spent the next couple of days exploring the Old Town, crossing the famous Stari Most, wandering through the old bazaar, and enjoying the views over the turquoise Neretva River. Mostar is definitely the kind of place that is best experienced early in the morning or later in the evening, when the day-trippers have left and the city feels much calmer.
This is also why I recommend staying at least two nights in Mostar. During the day, you can use the city as a base for nearby day trips, such as Blagaj Tekija, Počitelj, and Kravica Waterfalls. Then in the morning and evening, you can enjoy Mostar itself at its most magical.
Some of our favorite moments were simply walking through the cobbled streets, watching the light change over Stari Most, and sitting down for Bosnian coffee with a view. Mostar may be one of the most visited places in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it absolutely lives up to the hype.
💡 TIP – Make sure to grab breakfast at URBAN taste of orient in Mostar for the best oriental breakfast with a 5-star view.
🎫 TOUR – From Mostar: day tour to Blagaj, Počitelj and Kravice Waterfalls
📖 READ MORE – Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina – The Ultimate Travel Guide
Day 20 – 21
Sarajevo
Sarajevo was the perfect ending to our Balkan roadtrip! The city has such a unique atmosphere, with a fascinating mix of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, lively streets, traditional cafés, and so much history around every corner.
We absolutely loved exploring the old town, also known as Baščaršija. Wandering through its narrow streets, admiring the old wooden shopfronts, watching the copper craftsmen at work, and sitting down for Bosnian coffee immediately made us fall in love with the city.
That being said, we only had one night in Sarajevo and honestly, we both wished we had one extra day here. The city was that amazing. There’s so much more to see and experience, from viewpoints and museums to hidden corners, local restaurants, and surrounding mountain scenery.
So while this itinerary ends with one night in Sarajevo, I would definitely recommend adding an extra day if your schedule allows it.
💡 TIP – Grab the best Cevapi in the country at Ćevabdžinica Petica
If you have any questions, or you want to share your experience, drop a comment below!
More information on Balkan Itineraries
1 Month Balkan Itinerary – Discover Bosnia, Croatia & Montenegro
Bosnia and Montenegro Itinerary: The Perfect 2 Week Balkan Road Trip
7 Days in Montenegro: The Perfect One Week Montenegro Road Trip Itinerary
Bosnia & Herzegovina in 7 Days: The Best 1 Week Itinerary
Croatia in 14 Days: The Best Two-Week Itinerary for First-Time Visitors
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Hi! We’re Charlotte, Christof & César!
Armed with our cameras & drone we’re always on the lookout for the next adventure!
We’ve been traveling together since 2020 and the best adventures are yet to come!
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