Arnela’s wealth of knowledge and understanding of Mostar’s rich history, combined with her heartfelt storytelling, brings the city to life in ways we never imagined.

From tales of Mostar’s cultural and architectural heritage to the personal experiences of its people, Arnela offers a perspective that’s both insightful and deeply moving.

Her enthusiasm for showcasing the beauty, resilience, and history of her hometown is contagious, making the tour not just informative but truly inspiring.

What sets Sheva’s tour apart is the genuine connection Arnela creates with her guests.

Karađoz Beg Mosque water fountain

Whether you’re marveling at the iconic Stari Most or learning about the city’s more somber moments, Arnela ensures every step of the journey is meaningful.

Her passion for bringing Mostar to the world and her desire to foster understanding and appreciation for its culture make this tour an unforgettable experience.

For anyone visiting Mostar, Sheva’s Original Free Walking Tour is an absolute highlight.

It’s a chance to see the city through the eyes of a passionate local, hear stories that will stay with you long after the tour ends, and leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable place.

Don’t miss it!

An Overview Of Mostar’s Free Walking Tour

Discover the rich tapestry of Mostar’s history and culture with Sheva’s Original Free Walking Tour.

This two-hour journey on foot takes you through 600 years of fascinating stories, local customs, and architectural wonders.

You’ll gain invaluable insights into Mostar’s complex past and present, from its distant history to more recent events.

As you traverse the Old Town, your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to iconic landmarks such as the Old Bridge, Kriva Cuprija, and Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.

Looking along the beautiful Olld Bazaar, crowded with day visitors

The beautiful Olld Bazaar, very popular during the dasy time

You’ll also explore lesser-known gems like the Coppersmith Workshop and the Mausoleum of Osman Dikic, gaining a deeper understanding of Mostar’s unique heritage.

This tip-based tour allows you to decide its value based on your experience.

With stops at numerous significant sites and expert commentary on local politics, language, and cuisine,

Sheva’s Original Free Walking Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart of Mostar.

Understand The Cultural Richness of Mostar

Exploring Mostar’s Rich History

Mostar’s captivating past spans centuries, marked by architectural marvels and tumultuous conflicts. You’ll discover how this Herzegovinian city has been shaped by diverse cultures and historical events.

The Old Bridge and Its Legacy

The iconic Stari Most, or Old Bridge, stands as a symbol of Mostar’s enduring spirit.

Built in 1566 during Ottoman rule, this elegant stone arch connected the city’s eastern and western banks for over 400 years.

You’ll learn how the bridge became a testament to architectural ingenuity, its single-span arch a masterpiece of 16th-century engineering.

The structure played a crucial role in Mostar’s development as a trade hub.

Tragically, the bridge was destroyed in 1993 during the Bosnian War.

Its reconstruction, completed in 2004, now serves as a powerful symbol of reconciliation and resilience.

Stari Most in the Old Town

Wars of Yugoslav Succession and Their Impact

The conflicts of the 1990s left an indelible mark on Mostar’s landscape and people.

You’ll gain insight into how the city became a focal point during the breakup of Yugoslavia.

The tour explores the scars left by years of fighting, with bullet-riddled buildings and war memorials serving as stark reminders.

You’ll understand how the conflict divided the city along ethnic lines, creating lasting tensions.

Despite the challenges, you’ll see how Mostar has worked towards recovery and reconciliation.

The rebuilding efforts and the return of tourists demonstrate the city’s determination to move forward whilst honouring its complex past.

What you will see on your walk

Mostar’s cultural heritage reflects centuries of diverse influences.

The city’s landmarks, traditions, and cuisine offer a fascinating glimpse into its vibrant past and present.

The tour begins at the front of the Hamam Museum and we met our guide Arnela.

Historical Mosques and Religious Sites

The Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque stands as a jewel of Ottoman architecture in Mostar.

Built in 1617, its slender minaret offers panoramic views of the city.

You can explore the mosque’s interior, adorned with intricate calligraphy and geometric patterns.

The Tabačica Mosque, dating back to 1600, showcases unique features like its octagonal base and domed roof.

This lesser-known gem provides insight into Mostar’s Islamic heritage.

The stunning crook bridge,it’s even older than Stari Most

For a glimpse into Ottoman bathing culture, visit the Hammam Museum.

This restored 16th-century bathhouse now houses exhibits on traditional hygiene practices and social customs.

Traditional Crafts and Gastronomy

Kujundžiluk, Mostar’s old bazaar, buzzes with artisanal activity. You’ll find coppersmiths crafting decorative items using time-honoured techniques.

Don’t miss the chance to visit a traditional copper workshop, where skilled artisans demonstrate their craft.

Mostar’s cuisine blends Turkish, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences.

Sample local specialities like ćevapi (grilled meat rolls) and burek (flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese).

Walking through the Old Town markets and cafes

For a sweet treat, try tufahije, poached apples stuffed with walnuts.

The city’s cafés serve strong Bosnian coffee, often accompanied by lokum (Turkish delight).

This ritual offers a moment of relaxation and a taste of local hospitality.

As it was a hot day and our boys did so well listening to Arnela she kindly offered them an ice cream from one of the from one of the local vendors she knew personally!

Old Town’s Vibrant Atmosphere

As you wander through Mostar’s Old Town, you’ll be enveloped by centuries of history.

Cobblestone streets lead you past Ottoman-era buildings and lively market stalls.

The air is filled with the aroma of traditional Bosnian coffee and grilled ćevapi.

You can observe skilled artisans at work in their workshops, crafting intricate copper items and textiles.

Don’t miss the chance to sample local delicacies like burek or baklava from street vendors.

Group tours often pause in picturesque squares, where guides share fascinating anecdotes about Mostar’s past and present.

The beautiful Olld Bazaar, very popular during the dasy time

Bridge Diving – A Unique Tradition

The Old Bridge isn’t just a stunning piece of architecture, it’s also the stage for a heart-stopping spectacle.

Bridge diving is a long-standing tradition in Mostar, practised by the Old Bridge Diving Club.

You’ll often spot divers perched atop the bridge’s highest point, preparing to plunge 24 metres into the chilly Neretva River below.

This daring feat requires immense skill and courage, drawing crowds of spectators.

Beautiful morning in Mostar

The Diving Club organises regular exhibitions during the summer months.

If you’re feeling particularly brave, you can even take lessons from experienced divers.

However, it’s crucial to note that this activity is extremely dangerous and should only be attempted under expert supervision.

Mostars cemetery

Our walk concluded at one of Mostar’s most well-known cemeteries, located beside the historic Nesuh Aga Mosque.

This final stop left a profound impact on us, offering a stark and moving reminder of the city’s turbulent history.

Many of the white gravestones bear only the names and birthdates of the deceased, with no date of death inscribed.

This haunting absence speaks volumes, these individuals are still considered missing, their bodies never recovered, leaving their families in painful uncertainty.

Standing there, surrounded by these silent markers of loss, was an emotional experience that gave us a deeper understanding of the scars left behind by conflict.

It was a solemn and humbling reminder of the resilience of Mostar’s people and the enduring impact of war on this beautiful city.

This moment stayed with us long after we left the cemetery, highlighting the importance of remembering and honoring the lives affected by the tragedies of the past.

Hum Hill with a white cross at the top

Sheva’s Walking Tours: Options

These guided experiences provide valuable local perspectives and cater to diverse interests and language needs.

Languages and Accessibility

Sheva’s tours are conducted in multiple languages to accommodate a wide range of visitors.

English-speaking guides are available for most tours, ensuring clear communication for international travellers.

Additionally, tours in Italian and Spanish are offered, broadening accessibility for non-English speakers.

You can easily book a tour via email or phone.

The company’s responsive customer service ensures you receive prompt answers to your queries.

Daily free tours are available, allowing you to join without prior reservation.

This flexibility is particularly helpful if you’re uncertain about your travel schedule.

Diversity of Tours Offered

Sheva’s Walking Tours feature a variety of options to suit different preferences and time constraints.

The signature ‘Original Free Walking Tour of Mostar’ covers 600 years of local history in just two hours.

This tour takes you through key sites like Tabhana, Kriva Cuprija, and the iconic Old Bridge.

For a more personalised experience, you can opt for a private tour.

These bespoke excursions allow you to explore specific areas of interest at your own pace.

Themed tours, such as the ‘Heart of Mostar Walking Tour’, delve into the city’s traditions and old town charm.

Each tour provides insights into Mostar’s architecture, cuisine, and local customs.

You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the city’s complex past and vibrant present through your guide’s expert narration.

Our Final Thoughts

This was truly a standout highlight, not just of our time in Mostar but of our entire trip through the Balkans.

Mostar’s Free walking tour gave us an incredible opportunity to dive deep into the rich culture and complex history of this beautiful city.

Arnela, our guide, brought everything to life with her engaging storytelling, passion, and extensive knowledge.

Family photo on Stari Most (bridge) over looking Hum Hill

Her ability to weave together tales of Mostar’s cultural heritage, its significance as a meeting point of East and West, and its struggles during the war was nothing short of remarkable.

We left the tour feeling enriched, inspired, and with a newfound appreciation for the resilience of the people who call this city home.

Arnela’s personal touches, humor, and emotional connection to the city made this experience unforgettable.

It wasn’t just a walking tour, it was a journey into the heart and soul of Mostar, and it will forever remain one of our most cherished memories from the Balkans.

Don’t miss Mostar’s Free Walking Tour!

The view from Stari Most looking down river

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Arnela also advised us not to take the boys to the Museum of War and Genocide, and I’m so glad I followed her advice.

This museum, while incredibly important and educational, is not suitable for children.

Its exhibits are graphic, raw, and provide an unflinching account of the tragedies of war.

The museum offers a deeply detailed and emotional portrayal of the horrors that unfolded during the conflict, from personal stories to haunting artifacts.

It’s an experience meant for mature audiences who are prepared to confront the harsh realities of war and its devastating impact on individuals and communities.

While I chose not to visit with the kids, I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s history.

It’s a somber yet vital reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of learning from the past to build a better future.

Disclosure: This post might contain affiliate links. This means I might receive a small commission if you click and purchase something. Clicking on these links will not cost you anything, however it helps me to keep my website running. For more information click on our disclosure policy.

Meet the family

We are a family of 4 living in New Zealand. I’m a teacher (great profession for traveling) and my wife Connie works in project management. We are also proud parents of two travel-loving boys.

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Scott - 4 Degrees of Destination

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Hi, I've been fortunate enough to have travelled for over 25 years. My parents gave me the travel bug when I was 10 years old by taking my sister and I to the USA and Mexico for two months. I've travelled by myself, with mates, with my wife and now as a family of four. My goal is to inspire our families to get out and see the world.

Discover Mostar’s Soul: An Unforgettable Free Walking Tour