The fairytale town of Pocitelj in Bosnia and Herzegovina clings to a hill over the Neretva River. Stone structures interlaced with cobbled streets, a ruined medieval fortress and restored 16th-century mosque create an idyllic tableau that defies the town’s history.

Pocitelj has seen more than its share of strife over the centuries. With occupations from Ottomans and Hungarians, capped with the destruction from the war in the 1990s, Pocitelj has endured and held firmly onto its charms. A short drive over the Croatian border, a Pocitelj day trip from Dubrovnik is too close to miss out on.

Here's all you need to know about Pocitelj, one of the most exciting day trips from Dubrovnik.

How to get to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik?

Pocitelj sits about 2 hours northwest from Dubrovnik in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

From Dubrovnik to Pocitelj by car

The quickest way is to take the D8 west out of Dubrovnik for about 50 kilometers until you reach the Bosnian and Herzegovinian border. In the border town of Dracevo, take the R426 to E73/M17 for about 60 kilometers until you reach your destination.

Guided tour to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik

With a guided tour to Pocitelj, sit back and take in the scenery as a driver guide skirts the Adriatic coast and up through the mountains toward a worry-free day. Take in commentary about what you see on the drive as well as during guided walking tours. Guided tours also include stops at other enticing destinations like Mostar, Kravice Falls and Sarajevo.

What is the typical itinerary?

Start between 7 and 9 AM with pickup from your Dubrovnik accommodations for the 2-hour drive to Pocitelj. Tours either begin or end with a 30-minute sojourn at Pocitelj before or after stopovers to Kravice Falls, Mostar, Sarajevo or other towns.

During your guided tour, you will have plenty of time to explore the city, take in the sites and enjoy a meal. Conclude your 6- to 12-hour day tour with a relaxing ride back to Dubrovnik.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Pocitelj?

Guided tours to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik

Join a guide and a small group for a day exploring southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. With door-to-door transportation from your hotel in Dubrovnik and stops at Pocitelj and at least one other attraction, it’s easy to discover the best of the region without hassles.

Private tour to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik

Splurge on a private tour to Pocitelj that allows a flexible schedule with a guide’s full attention. Private tour prices can be as affordable, if not more, than group tours if you are traveling with a large group. Most tour itineraries reserve only 30 minutes of time at Pocitelj and with a private tour, you have the freedom to extend your time there.

How much does a day trip to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik cost?

Group tours to Pocitelj from Dubrovnik cost from €50 per person to €80 per person. Day trips for small groups tend to be more expensive.

Private day tours focusing on Pocitelj and Mostar cost from €60 per person to €180 per person, depending on group size. The most expensive private tours typically include multiple stops on the itinerary and include entry fees for any attractions visited along the way.

Day tours with visits to Pocitelj and two or more additional stops cost from €115 per person to €190 per person, depending on group size. Keep in mind that not all tours with a visit to Kravice Falls include the BAM20 (approximately €10) entry fee to the park.

What will you see and do?

Pocitelj

Miraculously restored after suffering bombing in 1993, the hillside village of Pocitelj today barely shows scars. The UNESCO-protected town’s history spans at least 500 years, and there are examples of medieval and Ottoman architecture among its limestone buildings.

Witness the seamlessly reconstructed 16th-century mosque, with its impressive dome and minaret adding character to the town’s profile. Climb to the top of Gavrakapetan Tower, part of the ruined Ottoman fortress, for the best views of the village and valley. Take a break for a Turkish coffee, or even better, shop for a locally-made copper coffee set to take home.

Mostar

The unarguably picturesque Old Town of Mostar is cut through by the turquoise Neretva River. You’ll find plenty of shopping and dining here, as well as the world-famous Stari Most Bridge. The original 16th-century structure collapsed in 1993 after heavy shelling. The bridge has since been rebuilt and is Mostar’s top attraction.

Kravice Waterfalls

Just to the northwest of Pocitelj is the “Gem of Herzegovina,” Kravice Waterfalls. The Trebizat River tumbles over a curved escarpment into a collection of 25-meter-high cascades. The highly photogenic falls are a popular picnic and swimming locale. Plan a summer outing to the falls to take a dip like a local.

Sarajevo

The stalwart capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina has a tragic history, but its warm and welcoming streets belie Sarajevo’s dark past. On your day tour, you can immerse yourself in the infamous yet charming city’s atmosphere. The highlights of a day in Sarajevo are visits to the Tunnel Museum and Bascarsija Bazaar.

When is the best time to visit Pocitelj?

The best time to visit Pocitelj is during the summer months of June, July, and August when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds. For a quieter and more relaxed visit, consider going in the shoulder seasons of May or September.

Travel tips

Bring a valid passport for the international border crossing from Crotia to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Pocitelj is a historic village with cobblestone streets and steep hills, so wear comfortable walking shoes to explore the village.
Don't forget to try some of the traditional dishes in Pocitelj, like cevapi, burek, and baklava.
If your tour makes a stop at Kravice Falls, bring a swimsuit and towel during the warmer months.
While some businesses in Pocitelj may accept euros, it's best to bring Bosnian convertible mark (BAM) for any purchases.

Pocitelj: Day Trips and Tours from Dubrovnik