It’s one of the great Balkan journeys. A trip that takes you from the resilient, historic heart of Sarajevo, nestled in its mountain valley, to the sun-drenched limestone and shimmering blue of Dubrovnik on the Adriatic coast. Many people rush this as a simple transfer, a point A to point B. But they miss the story that unfolds in between.
The truth is, the drive from Sarajevo to Dubrovnik is a destination in itself. It’s a journey through the dramatic canyons of the Neretva River, past ancient towns, and into the Mediterranean landscapes of southern Herzegovina. To do it right, you need to give it time, and you need the freedom to stop whenever you want.
This three-day, one-way itinerary is designed to turn a simple drive into an unforgettable adventure. The absolute best way to do it is with a one-way car rental. Pick up your car in Sarajevo, take your time exploring the incredible route south, and then simply drop the car off when you reach Dubrovnik. For a trip like this, focused on scenic roads and coastal style, a comfortable sedan or a fun convertible is the perfect choice.
Day 1: From the Capital to the Canyon
- Route: Sarajevo to Mostar, with a stop in Konjic.
- Driving Time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes (plus stops).
Your journey begins. After collecting your Yes.ba rental car in Sarajevo, take a moment. The road you’re about to drive, the M-17 highway, is one of the most beautiful in Europe. It follows the path of the Neretva River, a body of water so vividly turquoise you’ll question if it’s real.
Leave Sarajevo in the morning and head south. About an hour into your drive, you’ll arrive in the charming town of Konjic. Park your car and take a walk to its elegant 17th-century Ottoman stone bridge, the Stara Ćuprija. It’s a beautifully restored smaller sibling to the famous bridge in Mostar and a perfect spot for a coffee break by the river.
As you continue, the canyon deepens, and the scenery becomes even more dramatic. The road twists and turns with the river, through tunnels carved into the mountainside. You’ll arrive in Mostar in the afternoon. The heat, the scent of wild herbs, and the sound of the call to prayer will tell you that you’ve arrived in Herzegovina. Check into your hotel, then take a late afternoon stroll to get your first breathtaking view of the Old Bridge as the sun begins to set.
Day 2: Mostar’s Bridge and the Road Less Traveled
- Route: Explore Mostar, then drive to Trebinje via Stolac.
- Driving Time: Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes (plus stops).
Wake up with the sun. The magic of Mostar is best experienced in the early morning, before the daily crowds pour in. Walk the polished stones of the Stari Most, watch the famous divers prepare for their first leap, and wander through the Kujundžiluk bazaar as the artisans open their shops. Enjoy a strong Bosnian coffee and a plate of burek as you watch the city come to life.
After checking out of your hotel around noon, it’s time to take the road less traveled. Instead of the main highway, you’ll drive southeast towards the ancient town of Stolac. This route takes you through a landscape of vineyards, pomegranate trees, and rocky hills. Stolac is a living museum, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the country. Park your car and explore the historic mills on the Bregava River. Just outside of town, you can visit the Radimlja Necropolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site with fascinating medieval tombstones called stećci. It’s a powerful, quiet glimpse into Bosnia’s deep history.
From Stolac, it’s a beautiful drive through rolling hills to Trebinje. You’ll arrive in the late afternoon, feeling like you’ve discovered a secret path through the heart of Herzegovina.
Day 3: Sun, Wine, and the Adriatic Pearl
- Route: Explore Trebinje, then drive to Dubrovnik, Croatia.
- Driving Time: Approximately 45 minutes (including the border).
Enjoy a slow, relaxed morning in Trebinje, the city of sun and wine. Its beautiful old town is shaded by giant, 120-year-old plane trees, and the outdoor market is full of local honey, lavender, and cheese. Before you leave, a visit to the Tvrdoš Monastery, just a short drive from the city, is a must. Run by Orthodox monks, it’s a serene place with a history of winemaking that dates back to the 15th century. You can even sample and buy their fantastic wines.
After a final coffee under the plane trees, it’s time to head for the coast. The drive to the Brgat Gornji border crossing is short and easy. With your passport and the car’s Green Card insurance we provide, the crossing is usually straightforward.
Suddenly, you’re on the high road descending towards the Adriatic. The view of Dubrovnik’s terracotta roofs and the sparkling blue sea is one of the world’s great travel moments. Welcome to the Pearl of the Adriatic.
Arriving in Dubrovnik: Car Return & Final Tips
Dropping off your car is as easy as picking it up. We can arrange to meet you at your accommodation in Dubrovnik or directly at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), whichever is more convenient for your plans.
A local tip: Dubrovnik’s old town is a pedestrian-only zone, and parking anywhere near it is extremely difficult and expensive. The smartest plan is to drop off your rental car as soon as you arrive and explore the city on foot. You’ve completed your epic road trip, and now it’s time to enjoy the final destination.
Why This Road Trip is a Balkan ClassicWhy This Road Trip is a Balkan Classic
This journey is more than just a drive; it’s a story that unfolds from the mountains to the sea, connecting cultures, histories, and landscapes. It’s an experience that shows you the very soul of this incredible region.
This iconic journey is best done with the freedom of your own car. Our one-way rentals are designed for this exact adventure. Browse our fleet of comfortable sedans and stylish convertibles, and let’s get your road trip started.