Here's a detailed stop-by-stop itinerary for driving trip from Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravice Waterfalls
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Old Town
Stop 1: Old Town / Stari Grad, Dubrovnik (Starting Point).
◍Old Town, also known as Stari Grad, is the historic city center of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is located on the eastern Adriatic coast and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The GPS coordinates for Old Town / Stari Grad are approximately 42.6417° N latitude and 18.1072° E longitude.Description:
Old Town is a walled city that dates back to the 13th century. It is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The city is surrounded by impressive stone walls that were built to protect it from invasions. The walls are approximately 2 kilometers long and offer a unique opportunity to walk along the fortifications and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. The main street in Old Town is called Stradun, or Placa, and it runs from the Pile Gate to the Ploce Gate. This pedestrian street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The architecture in Old Town is predominantly Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque, with narrow streets and charming alleyways that make it a delight to explore.
History:
Dubrovnik has a rich and storied history that dates back to the 7th century. Old Town played a significant role in the city's development. It was a major maritime power and a hub for trade, especially during the Republic of Ragusa period from the 14th to the 19th century. During this time, Dubrovnik became a prosperous city-state with a strong economy and a well-organized government. The city boasted impressive cultural and artistic achievements, which can still be seen in the architecture and artwork of Old Town today. Old Town has also witnessed its fair share of turmoil. It was heavily damaged by an earthquake in 1667 and faced various sieges throughout its history. One of the most significant events was the Siege of Dubrovnik in 1991 during the Croatian War of Independence, when the city was shelled by the Yugoslav People's Army. However, extensive restoration efforts have helped preserve the city's historic charm. Today, Old Town is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque setting make it a must-visit place in Dubrovnik.
Neum
Stop 2: Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Border Crossing).
Distance from Dubrovnik : Approximately 61 km.
Duration: Around 1 hour.
◍Neum is a small town located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, specifically in the southern part of the country. It is situated on the Adriatic Sea, making it the only coastal town in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Neum is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning coastal scenery.History:
Neum has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. The area has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and it has been influenced by various cultures throughout its history. In the past, Neum was under the rule of the Illyrians, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. During the Ottoman period, Neum was a part of the Bosnian Eyalet and served as an important trading hub. The town experienced significant development during this time, with the construction of several important buildings and infrastructure. However, after the fall of the Ottoman Empire, Neum became a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. With the creation of Yugoslavia in the early 20th century, Neum became a part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia and the Bosnian War in the 1990s, Neum remained a part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Description:
Neum is a picturesque coastal town that attracts tourists with its natural beauty and Mediterranean climate. The town is surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The coastline of Neum stretches for approximately 20 kilometers, providing ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Neum is also known for its vibrant tourism industry. The town has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, and campsites. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, such as boat trips, jet skiing, and snorkeling. The town's restaurants offer delicious seafood and local cuisine, and there are numerous shops and markets where visitors can buy souvenirs and local products. Border Crossing: The Neum Border Crossing is an important entry and exit point between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated on the main road that connects Dubrovnik, Croatia, and the rest of the Adriatic coastline with the southern regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The distance from Dubrovnik to Neum is approximately 61 kilometers, and the journey takes around 1 hour. The GPS coordinates for Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Border Crossing) are 42.923 latitude and 17.6187 longitude. These coordinates can be used to pinpoint the exact location of Neum on a map or navigation system.
Pocitelj
Stop 3: Pocitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Historic Town).
Distance from Neum: Approximately 44 km.
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes.
◍Pocitelj is a historic town located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, approximately 44 km from Neum. Its GPS coordinates are 43.1476° N latitude and 17.7121° E longitude.Description:
Pocitelj is a small town situated in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the region of Herzegovina. It is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and medieval fortress, making it a popular tourist destination. The town is located on the banks of the Neretva River, surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
History:
Pocitelj has a rich and diverse history that dates back to the medieval period. It was initially built as a fortress in the 14th century by the Bosnian king Tvrtko I. Over the centuries, Pocitelj developed into an important trading and cultural center under Ottoman rule. During the Ottoman era, Pocitelj flourished as a strategic location on the trade routes connecting the Adriatic Sea and the interior of Bosnia. The town was heavily influenced by Turkish architecture, with the construction of mosques, a hamam (public bath), and residential buildings with characteristic stone facades and red-tiled roofs. In the late 19th century, Pocitelj lost its strategic importance and began to decline. The town suffered significant damage during the Bosnian War in the 1990s. However, in recent years, extensive restoration efforts have been made to preserve and revitalize its historic buildings and cultural heritage. Today, Pocitelj is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the narrow streets of the town, visit the medieval fortress, and admire the unique blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean architectural styles. The town also hosts various cultural events and festivals, showcasing traditional Bosnian crafts, music, and cuisine. Visiting Pocitelj: The distance from Neum to Pocitelj is approximately 44 km, and the travel time is estimated to be around 40 minutes. Visitors can reach Pocitelj by car or public transportation. The town offers parking facilities for those traveling by car. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the town on foot, wandering through its charming streets and admiring the well-preserved buildings. It is recommended to visit the medieval fortress, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Additionally, the mosque and the hamam are noteworthy attractions that provide insights into the town's Ottoman heritage. Pocitelj is also home to several art galleries and craft shops where visitors can purchase traditional Bosnian handicrafts and souvenirs. The town's rich history and cultural significance make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those interested in experiencing the unique blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean influences.
Blagaj
Stop 4: Blagaj, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Blagaj Tekke and Buna River Spring).
Distance from Pocitelj: Approximately 28 km.
Duration: Around 30 minutes.
◍Blagaj, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a small village located ly 28 km southeast of Pocitelj. It is best known for its historical and cultural significance, particularly the Blagaj Tekke and the Buna River Spring. The Blagaj are (See the place on Google Maps) Blagaj Tekke is a Dervish monastery situated at the base of a towering cliff, next to the Buna River Spring. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The tekke was built in the 16th century and has served as a place of spiritual retreat for Sufi Muslims ever since. The building's architecture is a blend of Ottoman and Mediterranean styles, featuring arched colonnades, domes, and a tranquil courtyard. The Buna River Spring, located just a short distance from the Blagaj Tekke, is a natural phenomenon that attracts visitors from all over the world. It is one of the largest and most powerful karst springs in Europe, with water bursting out from an underwater cave and forming a crystal-clear river. The spring is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere. Blagaj has a rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. It was an important trading center and a stronghold during the Ottoman Empire. The village and its surrounding areas were ruled by various empires and civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans. Today, Blagaj remains a significant cultural and historical site, preserving its heritage and attracting tourists who are captivated by its natural beauty and architectural marvels. To visit Blagaj from Pocitelj, it takes approximately 30 minutes by car. The scenic drive allows visitors to enjoy the picturesque countryside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Once in Blagaj, visitors can explore the Blagaj Tekke, admire the Buna River Spring, and take a boat ride along the river to fully experience the beauty of this enchanting place.Mostar
Stop 5: Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Stari Most and Old Town).
Distance from Blagaj: Approximately 12 km.
Duration: Approximately 20 minutes.
◍Mostar is a historic city located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) and charming Old Town. It is situated approximately 12 kilometers from the town of Blagaj, and the journey between the two takes approximately 20 minutes. GPS Coordinates for Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina : Latitude: 43.3378 Longitude: 17.8128 Mostar's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is famous for its blend of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architectural styles. The city has a rich and complex history that dates back to ancient times. During the Ottoman Empire, Mostar served as an important trade center and was known for its diverse cultural and religious communities. The Stari Most, a 16th-century Ottoman bridge, was the symbol of the city and connected the Muslim and Christian quarters of Mostar. Unfortunately, during the Bosnian War in the 1990s, the Stari Most was destroyed. However, significant efforts were made to rebuild the bridge using the original techniques and materials, and it was reopened in 2004. The reconstruction of the Stari Most was a symbol of hope and reconciliation for the people of Mostar and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Today, Mostar's Stari Most and Old Town attract numerous tourists from around the world. The Old Town is a vibrant and bustling area with narrow cobblestone streets, traditional stone houses, and a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. It is a place where visitors can experience the unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Aside from the Stari Most and Old Town, Mostar also offers other attractions, including historical mosques, museums, and the picturesque Neretva River. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with events and festivals taking place throughout the year. Mostar is not only a popular tourist destination but also a place of historical significance and cultural importance. It serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.Kravice Waterfalls
Stop 6: Kravice Waterfalls, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Distance from Mostar: Approximately 40 km.
Duration: Around 40 minutes. End Point: Old Town / Stari Grad, Dubrovnik. (See the place on Google Maps)
Distance from Kravice Waterfalls : Approximately 111 km.
Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
◍The Kravice Waterfalls are a natural wonder located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, ly 40 kilometers from the city of Mostar. (See the place on Google Maps)Description:
The Kravice Waterfalls are a series of cascading waterfalls that form on the Trebižat River. The falls are situated in a lush, green landscape surrounded by dense forests, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting. The main waterfall measures about 25 meters in height and spans a width of 120 meters, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the Balkan region. The water at Kravice Waterfalls is crystal clear and turquoise in color, creating a stunning visual contrast against the surrounding greenery. The falls flow into a series of natural pools, where visitors can swim, relax, and enjoy the refreshing waters. The area is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including various species of fish and birds.
History:
The Kravice Waterfalls have a rich natural and cultural history. The falls have been formed over thousands of years through the erosive forces of the Trebižat River. The surrounding area has been inhabited since ancient times, and the falls have been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. During the Ottoman Empire, the waterfalls were used as a mill site, taking advantage of the river's powerful flow. The mills were an essential part of the local economy, providing flour for the region. Today, some of the remnants of these mills can still be seen near the falls. In recent years, the Kravice Waterfalls have gained popularity as a tourist destination due to their natural beauty and accessibility. The area has been developed with walkways, picnic areas, and swimming spots to enhance the visitor experience while preserving the natural environment. Visiting Information: To reach the Kravice Waterfalls from Mostar, it takes approximately 40 minutes by car, covering a distance of about 40 kilometers. The journey is scenic, passing through charming villages and beautiful landscapes. From the Kravice Waterfalls, the distance to the Old Town (Stari Grad) in Dubrovnik is approximately 111 kilometers, which takes about 2 hours by car. This allows visitors to combine a trip to the waterfalls with a visit to the historic city of Dubrovnik. It is advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes when visiting the waterfalls, as there are paths and trails to explore. Swimming is allowed in designated areas, so bringing swimwear and towels is recommended for those who wish to take a dip in the natural pools. Overall, the Kravice Waterfalls offer a breathtaking natural spectacle and a peaceful retreat from the bustling cities nearby.