How to Get from Mostar to Dubrovnik by Bus (My Experience on This Route)

Getting from Mostar to Dubrovnik by bus sounds simple, but there isn’t much clear information about the route online.

I took this bus in spring, and it breezed through the border in about 30 minutes, with views of the Croatian coastline that had me glued to the window.

What I didn’t realise is that the Dubrovnik bus station is a long way from the old town, and a few other little things caught me out too.

So here’s everything I’d want to know before taking the bus from Mostar to Dubrovnik, from tickets to where I’d stay at the other end.

Quick Answer

⭐⭐⭐ The bus takes about 3.5 hours plus the border and runs around 3 times a day, mostly in the morning. Check bus times and prices on Omio →

⭐⭐ In Dubrovnik, I can personally recommend Celenga Apartments, right inside the walled city. Check prices & availability →

⭐ Short on time? This Mostar, Kravica Waterfalls and Počitelj day trip goes from Dubrovnik and back in a day. Check availability →

Getting a Ticket at Mostar Bus Station

The best way to get your ticket is from the physical bus station.

The bus station is located not far from the city centre.

It’s only about a 15-minute walk (if that) from the famous bridge so there is no need to catch a taxi there unless you have a lot of baggage, then it might be safer to catch a taxi.

The ticket prices vary, but mine was around 20.

You also have the option to book your ticket online on Omio, but I still think the best way is to go to the ticket office, because timetables can change.

Also, it’s most likely that they won’t accept mobile tickets so you would need to print off your ticket somewhere.

It’s easier to just buy your ticket the day before to avoid hassles!

The bus leaves Mostar around 3 times a day and usually in the morning/ lunchtime.

You don’t have to get a ticket in advance but in the peak season, it might be a good idea to.

You could always ask your accommodation supplier to ask to put a ticket on hold if you were worried.

I did this bus trip in March/April, so my bus wasn’t full at all!

Travel time

Travel time is around 3.5 hours, but you must consider the time it takes to cross the border.

This can add another 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on whether anyone on the bus has a problem with their passport or visa.

However, saying that, my bus breezed through security and immigration and it probably only took 30 minutes.

This will also depend on when you’re visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina because it can take longer in the summer months.

It’s a lovely drive.

I was so impressed by the views when reaching the Croatian coastline.

Plus if you have 7 days in Croatia or less, it makes sense to get there faster with a car.

That way you also get the freedom to visit some beautiful waterfalls along the way such as Ombla river spring.

You will want to have your camera out and ready for some awesome shots.

Reaching Dubrovnik

What I didn’t realise about the bus is that the Dubrovnik bus station is located a long way from the old town, just outside the city.

So, from there you must catch a local bus which only costs a couple of euros.

It was easy enough to figure out as there was a little booth to get your ticket and ask about the timetable.

Otherwise, you can catch a taxi which costs roughly €9 to the old town.

Top tips

1. Have 1 euro handy so you can store your luggage in the under-compartment of the bus.

I had to pay 1 euro, but some people said they didn’t, so I guess it depends on what your bus driver is like but from the reviews, most people had to pay.

This is very common in the Balkan Countries.

What I found strange is that the driver only accepted euros so make sure you do have an extra euro lying around just in case!

2. Take a few Croatian or Bosnian snacks and water on the way just in case the bus doesn’t stop for a break.

The journey isn’t that long but if you do get stuck at the border for longer than expected, it’s a good idea to be prepared.

3. Be sure to have your luggage prepared to be looked through.

Make sure you have everything organised and anything that you need to show the border like medicines, are easily accessible.

Accommodation in Dubrovnik

There are plenty of great Airbnb’s and hotels within Dubrovnik.

One of the best I can personally recommend is Celenga studio apartment rooms.

This is located right within the walled city.

The Mostar to Dubrovnik bus is super easy and one of the best rides within the Balkans.

I would recommend taking this bus rather than a private transfer or flying.

If you have any questions about this route from Bosnia and Herzegovina or vice versa, if you’re starting in Croatia, then make sure you leave them below so I can answer them for you.