Things To Do
in Trebinje

Trebinje sits in the sun-drenched Herzegovina region, where the Trebišnjica river winds through a compact, old-town core. Its stone-paved streets, colorful facades, and the iconic Arslanagića Bridge give the town a timeless, postcard-worthy charm. Vineyards blanket the surrounding hills, and the gentle Mediterranean climate invites long evenings by the river.

With friendly locals, a relaxed pace, and easy access to canyons, vineyards, and nearby towns, Trebinje makes for a postcard-worthy, walkable weekend escape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Trebinje
morning
:

Arrive in Trebinje and check into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk along the stunning banks of the Trebišnjica River, admiring the lush surrounding hills. Grab breakfast at a local café to sample traditional Bosnian pastries.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Trebinje Old Town, exploring its cobbled streets and charming squares. Don’t miss the chance to see the iconic Arslanagić Bridge and visit the Hercegovina Museum. Pause for lunch at a bistro, savoring local wines and dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic dinner at a riverside restaurant. Sample the local seafood and wines, soaking in the ambiance of the vibrant outdoor terrace. After dinner, wander through the city illuminated by street lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

day 2
Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Abbey of Our Lady of Fortitude, housed in a stunning building. Explore the grounds and learn about the monastery's rich history. Enjoy breakfast at a café nearby, relishing a cup of Bosnian coffee.

afternoon
:

Attend a local craft workshop to experience traditional pottery or weaving, offering insight into the region's cultural heritage. Share lunch with locals, trying dishes like pita and sarma. Visit local markets to find handmade crafts and culinary delights.

evening
:

Head to the main square for a traditional music performance, immersing yourself in the local culture. Join the locals in their evening routines, perhaps enjoying a sweet treat at a nearby konoba. Reflect on your experiences over a glass of rakija under the starry skies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🛏️Hotel or hostel per night$25-60
Coffee$2-4
🚌Public transport / One-way ticket$0.80-2
🎟️Museum or attraction ticket$3-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact, walkable town with stunning river views
  • Rich wine culture and fragrant hillside scenery
  • Friendly locals and relaxed pace
  • Reasonably affordable accommodations
  • Easy day trips to nearby Herzegovinian towns
  • Limited nightlife beyond the riverfront
  • Can be hot and crowded in peak summer
  • Public transport options are limited outside town
  • Some services close on weekends in off-season
  • Less English signage in older neighborhoods
  • "Dobar dan" - Good day / Hello
  • "Hvala" - Thank you
  • "Molim" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Gdje je najbliža autobuska stanica?" - Where is the nearest bus station?
  • "Koliko košta?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Trebinje

Visit one of these nice places.

Arslanagića Bridge

Iconic Ottoman bridge spanning the Trebišnjica river, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.

Old Town Stari Grad and river promenade

Cobbled lanes, colorful facades, and reflections along the Trebišnjica provide classic composition.

Trebinje Fortress (Gradina) viewpoint

Elevated vantage point over the town with sweeping valley views.

Culinary Guide

Food in Trebinje

Trebinje's cuisine blends Mediterranean produce with hearty Bosnian specialties. Expect grilled meats, river fish, fresh salads, and excellent wines from local vineyards.

Trebinje Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ćevapi with lepinja

Grilled minced-meat sausages served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar.

Must-Try!

Burek (pita)

Flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach, a staple for breakfast or a quick meal.

Raštan and čorba

Hearty greens soup or seasonal bean soups often enjoyed with bread.

Fresh river fish

Grilled or baked fish from the Trebišnjica river, with lemon and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Trebinje Green Market

Central market offering seasonal produce, cheeses, olives, and pastries.

Street snacks

Fried pastries, burek, roasted chestnuts (seasonal), and lokum along the riverfront.

Climate Guide

Weather

Trebinje enjoys a warm Mediterranean-influenced climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Spring and autumn are pleasant for outdoor activities, while winter can bring cool temperatures and occasional snow in the surrounding hills.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting like Dobar dan goes a long way; handshake is common.

Religious sites

Dress modestly and remove hats; ask before taking photos of people or inside places of worship.

Photography

Ask permission before photographing individuals; be respectful when visiting residential areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Trebinje is generally safe for travelers with low crime rates. Exercise standard precautions: watch belongings in crowded areas, be cautious on mountain trails after dark, and follow local travel advisories. Border crossings into neighboring countries are straightforward with proper documents.

Tipping in Trebinje

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Leave 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included; round up for small cafes or street vendors.

Payment Methods

Cash in BAM or euros is widely accepted; cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot, dry days with refreshing evenings; crowds around riverfront cafés; carry water and use sunscreen.

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming almond and citrus; good for hiking and outdoor markets.

Autumn

Still pleasant; wine harvest season brings vineyard tours and tastings.

Winter

Cool to mild with occasional rain; some mountain trails may be icy; Christmas lights add charm.

Nightlife Guide

Trebinje at Night

Trebinje's nightlife is relaxed and intimate, centered around riverside bars, wine bars, and cafes. In summer, live music and outdoor venues come alive along the Trebišnjica river, offering a convivial, small-town vibe rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Trebinje

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Leotar Mountain Summit Trail

A scenic hike starting near Trebinje with sweeping views over the town and valley.

Orjen Mountain Day Trip Trails

Accessible hikes with coastal-mountain scenery not far from Trebinje (park regulations apply).

Nabijevo Canyon and Waterfalls Trail

Short scenic hike along streams and seasonal waterfalls nearby.

Airports

How to reach Trebinje by plane.

Dubrovnik Airport (DBV)

Approximately 80-110 km away; typical drive 1.5-2.5 hours depending on border crossing and traffic.

Mostar International Airport (OMO)

Approximately 130-180 km away; drive usually 2.5-3.5 hours.

Tivat or Podgorica Airports (TIV/TGD)

Regional options in Montenegro; about 200-250 km away; longer drive.

Getting Around

Walkability

Trebinje is highly walkable within the compact Old Town and riverfront. Hillside viewpoints require short climbs; outside the town, car rental helps reach vineyards and hiking trails. Parking can be limited in peak season, but walking is enjoyable and streets are pedestrian-friendly in the center.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs

The town is part of a multi-ethnic Herzegovina region, with communities of Bosniaks, Croats, and Serbs plus small Roma populations.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The region has a strong football culture; local clubs host matches and communal viewing.

Basketball

Popular locally, with informal games and youth programs.

Hiking and Mountain Biking

Trails around Leotar and nearby hills attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Trebinje is light to moderate. The Old Town streets are narrow and best explored on foot; parking is limited in peak season. For travel to nearby towns, roads are generally good, and bus services connect major centers, though timetables can be sparse in off-season.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Trebinje.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common: enjoy burek with cheese or spinach, salads, grilled vegetables, and eggplant dips. Ask for olive oil-based dressings or avoid meat-based stocks.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available at local clinics and the Trebinje Health Center; there are private clinics and pharmacies in town. For emergencies, larger hospitals in nearby Mostar and Dubrovnik are accessible by road, with a few doctors who speak English in tourist areas.

Discover Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read more in our Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025 Travel Guide.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Guide