Practical Information: Mostar

Local SIM Cards & Mobile

Local SIM cards and mobile providers are readily available in Mostar.

Network Providers & Purchase

BH Telecom, Eronet (HT Eronet), and M:tel are major operators.
Purchase SIM cards at provider stores, kiosks, and newsstands.
A passport is generally needed for prepaid SIM card registration. Airalo for eSIM options.
Affordable data packages are available for staying online.

Internet Access & Wi-Fi

Internet access and Wi-Fi availability are widespread.

Wi-Fi Availability

Most hotels, guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants offer complimentary Wi-Fi.
Many public squares in Mostar have free Wi-Fi zones.
Post offices are available in Mostar for sending mail internationally.

Language Assistance

Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian are mutually intelligible languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Important Phrases

Hello: Zdravo (ZDRAH-voh) / Dobar dan (DOH-bar DAHN)
Goodbye: Doviđenja (doh-vee-JE-nyah)
Please: Molim (MOH-leem)

Phrases for Visitors

Basic phrases enhance interactions with locals.

Common Expressions

Thank you: Hvala (HVAH-lah)
Yes: Da (dah)
No: Ne (neh)

Essential Phrases for Mostar

Everyday Needs

Excuse me / Sorry: Izvinite (eez-VEE-nee-teh)
How much is this?: Koliko košta? (KOH-lee-koh KOHSH-tah?)
Water: Voda (VOH-dah)
Coffee: Kafa (KAH-fah)

Assistance & Refreshments

Beer: Pivo (PEE-voh)
Help!: Upomoć! (OO-poh-moch!)
Where is...?: Gdje je...? (GDYEH yeh...?)
A phrasebook offers basic communication.

Language Support

The Google Translate app, with offline language packs for Bosnian/Croatian, assists with language differences. A small phrasebook is also helpful.

Services & Accessibility

Information on business operations and city accessibility is important for visitors.

Shops & Dining

Shops generally open 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Mon-Sat. Restaurants/cafes from early morning until late evening.

Banks & ATMs

Banks operate Mon-Fri, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM; some limited Sat hours. ATMs are widely available.

Museums & Attractions

Museums usually open 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Hours vary seasonally. Many close on Mondays.

Public Holidays

Bosnia and Herzegovina observes several public holidays.

Dates

New Year's Day, Labour Day (May 1st-2nd).
Orthodox Christmas (Jan 7th).
Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (dates vary).

Seasonal Adjustments

Seasonal closures and limited schedules happen, notably during low season.

Winter Considerations

Some tourist businesses or guesthouses might reduce hours or close in winter.
Check specific operating hours for winter visits.
Expect reduced hours for some services during off-peak times.

Accessibility Overview

Mobility Challenges

Mostar's Old Town has uneven cobblestones, steps, steep inclines.
Old Bridge is steep and slippery, challenging for wheelchairs.
Public buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Other Needs & Planning

Specialized services for visual impairments are not widely available.
Services for hearing impairments are not standard tourist offerings.
Taxis might be the most flexible transport option. Confirm needs beforehand.

Accessibility Planning

For travelers with specific accessibility needs, thorough research on individual venues and accommodations before a visit is highly recommended. Local disability organizations also offer specific information.

Etiquette & Cultural Insights

Greetings & Interactions

A handshake serves as a common greeting in formal settings. For close friends, three kisses on the cheek are common.

General Interactions

Handshake for first meetings.
Three kisses on the cheek for close friends.
Direct eye contact is generally considered respectful.

Attire & Modesty

Dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas and when visiting religious sites.

Religious Site Attire

Shoulders and knees must be covered for men and women.
Women should bring a headscarf for mosque visits (often provided).
Shoes must be removed before entering mosques.

Dining & Tipping

Dining is relaxed. Meals are for leisurely enjoyment.

Practices

Customary to wait for the bill (račun) at your table.
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory.
Rounding up the bill or a small percentage is common for good service.

Photography Ethics

Generally, taking photos in public areas is fine.

Respectful Photography

Ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Be discreet at religious sites; avoid flash inside.
Photography may have restrictions in some museums/galleries or military sites.

Sensitive Topics

Bosnian War

The Bosnian War (1992-1995) remains a highly sensitive topic.
Avoid taking sides or making light of the conflict.
Respectful listening if locals share experiences is appropriate.

Social Sensitivities

Avoid generalizations about ethnic divisions.
Public displays of affection for same-sex couples may draw attention.
Mostar tends to be more conservative than Sarajevo; discretion is prudent.

Emergency Contacts

Important Numbers

Police: 122
Fire Department: 123
Ambulance: 124

Health & Safety

Stay hydrated in summer heat.
Use insect repellent, especially near water.
Be aware of pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas.

Preparedness for Travel

Being informed about local services, health precautions, and payment methods makes a visit more comfortable and secure.

Money & Banking

Navigating local currency and financial services is simple with a bit of knowledge.

Currency and Payment

The Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM) is the official currency.

Payment Methods

Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM) is the official currency.
Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments.
Smaller shops and markets prefer cash.

Exchange and ATMs

Currency exchange offices and ATMs are available throughout the city.

Financial Access

Currency exchange offices provide competitive rates.
Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but BAM is preferred.
Confirm exchange rates and fees before transactions.

Airport Services

Services at the airport can improve your travel experience.

Lounge Access

Independent airport lounge access for frequent travelers. Priority Pass is an option.

Flight Compensation

Service for compensation on flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. Compensair assists with claims.

Portable Wi-Fi

Consider a portable Wi-Fi device for constant connectivity. Solis Wi-Fi is a provider.

Financial Management

Being prepared with local currency and knowing payment options simplifies financial aspects of your trip.

Practical Information