Dubrovnik is one of the treasures of the Dalmatian coast, a magnet for those fascinated by European architecture and history.
It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean, attracting around 1.5 million visitors each year, making it more popular than Venice and Barcelona.
Dubrovnik’s popularity has inevitably led to problems of overcrowding, a common complaint for those travelling in the peak summer months.
Yet within a short distance of this architectural gem is an alternative that offers the visitor the same cultural delights, but without quite the same crowds.
With its fairytale-like streets, craggy hillsides and ancient stone bridges, complete with surrounding vineyards and waterfalls, Mostar makes the perfect destination for a day trip.
Located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is just over a two hour drive from Dubrovnik.
The historic town has long been known for its old Turkish houses and Old Bridge, after which it is named.
Unfortunately it suffered terrible destruction during the Yugoslav civil war in the 1990s.
However, the old town and the bridge have been painstakingly rebuilt under the auspices of UNESCO, allowing visitors to once again delight in its unique architectural attributes.
The best time to visit the town is from April through to October. Summer temperatures can rise to as high as 36C.
The Old Town with its cobbled streets is quite small and doesn’t take long to explore.
There are plenty of opportunities for refreshments and shopping in the numerous cafes and souvenir stores that line the streets of the historic centre.
The best view over the town comes probably from Koski Mehmed-Pasha mosque, where for a small fee, it is possible to climb up the minaret. Built in 1618, it is the second largest mosque in Mostar.
Without doubt, one of the best places for souvenir bargain hunters is the Old Bazar Kujundziluk, located just east of the Old Bridge.
A stark reminder to the 1990s political turmoil is the War Photo Exhibition in Helebija Tower, next to the Old Bridge. Some 50 photos bear testimony to the brutal civil war that pitted neighbours against each other.
