This coastal town is Bosnia and Herzegovina's only access to the Adriatic Sea. Its beaches and warm climate attract visitors during summer months.
Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina's only coastal town, sits along the Adriatic Sea. This small resort offers beachfront hotels at lower prices than neighboring Croatian towns. In summer, you can enjoy festivals like Etnofest Neum and the Neum Animated Film Festival. Neum's location allows for day trips to places such as Mostar's Old Bridge and Dubrovnik's city walls. Whether you want to relax on pebble beaches or explore the region, Neum serves as a good base with its Mediterranean climate and calm waters.
Beaches and Coastal Activities
Neum's 21 kilometers of coastline include several pebble beaches with clear, calm waters for swimming. You can rent boats, jet skis, and other equipment for water sports along the shore. The bay, sheltered by the Pelješac Peninsula, is suitable for activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Mimosa Beach and Jazina Beach are well-known spots where you can spend a day sunbathing and enjoying the Adriatic.
Affordable Places to Stay
You'll find a range of lodging in Neum, from large resort hotels to small family-run guesthouses. Prices are generally lower than in neighboring Croatian coastal towns, making Neum an economical choice for a beach vacation. The Grand Hotel Neum and Hotel Zenit have amenities like pools and spa services, while numerous apartments provide a more independent stay. During peak summer months, it's advisable to book in advance.
Day Trips from Neum
From Neum, you can easily visit nearby sites. The city of Mostar, with its iconic Old Bridge, is about a 1.5-hour drive away. You can visit the pilgrimage site of Medjugorje or explore the waterfalls of Kravice, both within driving distance. The UNESCO World Heritage site of Dubrovnik in Croatia is just an hour's drive south, allowing for day trips to this well-preserved walled city.
Local Cuisine and Dining
Neum's restaurants serve a mix of Herzegovinian and Mediterranean cuisine. Fresh seafood is common on menus, with local specialties including grilled fish and black risotto. You can try traditional dishes like peka (meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid) at family-run konobas. Prices for meals are generally lower than in Croatian coastal towns, making dining out affordable.
Getting Around Neum
The town of Neum is compact and walkable, with most hotels and beaches close to each other. For trips to nearby sites, renting a car gives you the most flexibility. There are also regular bus services connecting Neum to other cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as to Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia. Taxis are available for short trips within town, with a typical fare costing around 5 euros.
Summer Events in Neum
During the summer months, Neum hosts various cultural events. The Etnofest Neum, held in late August, celebrates traditional Croatian music. The Neum Animated Film Festival (NAFF) in July presents animated films from around the world. These events add a cultural dimension to your beach holiday and provide opportunities to experience local arts and music.
