The quick answer
You can drive from Mostar to Dubrovnik in about two and a half to three hours in normal traffic. The smoothest route is to cross into Croatia at a major border, join the motorway towards Ploče, then follow signs for the Pelješac Bridge which keeps you inside Croatia all the way to Dubrovnik. Bring passports, your rental agreement and the Green Card we provide for Croatia.
The two main routes that work well
Fast and simple
Mostar to the Bijača or Doljani border, into Croatia, short motorway run towards Ploče, then the Pelješac Bridge and coastal road to Dubrovnik. One international crossing at the start, then you remain in Croatia for the rest of the trip. The bridge removes the old double crossing at Neum and is the least stressful choice in peak season.
Scenic coastal option
Cross at Doljani into Metković, follow the Neretva delta to the coast, then continue on the Adriatic road. Views are lovely, speeds are lower and there can be summer queues near beach towns. Use this if you want a relaxed drive with photo stops.
Tip for families and first timers: choose the fast and simple route.
Documents and insurance you must carry
- Passports for all travellers. EU citizens can use national ID where permitted.
- Full driving licence for each named driver. If your licence is not in Latin script or you have an older paper licence, bring an International Driving Permit.
- Rental agreement in the car.
- Green Card for Croatia. We include it when you book cross border with us. Keep it with the rental papers.
Border officers may ask where you are staying and how long you plan to visit. Answer briefly and keep documents ready.
Step by step for a smooth crossing
- Set your destination to Dubrovnik Old Town or your hotel. Your sat nav will propose both main routes.
- Fill up in or near Mostar so you can skip the first stations after the border if they are busy.
- Approach a major border such as Bijača or Doljani. These crossings are designed for higher volumes and normally run round the clock.
- Join the Croatian motorway towards Ploče. Keep your entry ticket safe and pay by card or cash at the exit plaza.
- Follow signs for the Pelješac Bridge. The bridge keeps you in Croatia and avoids extra border checks.
- Rejoin the coastal road and follow signs for Dubrovnik. Expect slower traffic near resort towns and in the approach to the city.
Best times to travel
- Early morning or late evening is calmest in summer.
- Weekends, holiday eves and late mornings bring queues at borders and beach junctions.
- If you must travel in the middle of the day, add extra time and keep water and snacks in the car.
Tolls, fuel and rest stops
- Bosnia and Herzegovina does not use vignettes. Motorways and main roads in Croatia use toll booths. Take a ticket on entry and pay at exit. Cards are accepted.
- Service areas and fuel stations sit on both sides of the border. Prices can vary. If you plan to return the car in Mostar, keep your final fuel receipt for a full to full handback.
- Public toilets are cleaner at major service areas and shopping centres. Small cash can help at older facilities.
Parking in Dubrovnik
Street space near Old Town is scarce and priced for short stays. The main public garages are the sensible choice. Book a hotel with parking if you can. For a quick visit, use a public garage and walk or take a local taxi to the gate you want.
Safety and common sense
- Keep within the posted limits. Police run mobile checks on the approach to tourist towns.
- Do not leave valuables in view when you stop for photos.
- Use lay-bys or signed viewpoints for stops. Avoid sudden pulls off the main road.
- If an accident happens, take photos, move to a safe spot, call local police if there is any third party damage and call us for guidance.
Frequent questions
Do I need a Green Card to drive from Mostar to Dubrovnik ?
Yes. Your rental must be authorised for Croatia. We provide a Green Card as proof of insurance and place it with your rental agreement.
Is the Pelješac Bridge free to use ?
There is no separate charge to cross the bridge at the time of writing. Standard Croatian motorway and road rules apply on the approach roads.
Which border is better, Bijača or Doljani ?
Both are good. Bijača pairs neatly with the motorway stretch towards Ploče. Doljani is ideal if you prefer to drop onto the coastal road sooner. Pick the one your sat nav suggests for current traffic.
How long is the drive from Mostar to Dubrovnik ?
Plan for two and a half to three hours in normal traffic. Add more time in July and August and on weekend afternoons.
Can I take the car into Montenegro after Dubrovnik ?
Yes with prior approval. Add Montenegro when you book so we can prepare the insurance papers. There is an extra cross border fee for Montenegro.
What if the border is very busy ?
Carry on to the next large crossing rather than using a tiny local post. Major crossings process more cars and usually move faster. Early morning is your best friend in summer.
What if my car has a problem en route ?
Pull over safely. Call us and follow the roadside assistance number in your handover pack. We will guide you to the nearest practical solution.
Can I do a one way to Dubrovnik or Split ?
Yes. Select one way at booking. The fee shows before you confirm. We meet you at an agreed point and close the contract on the spot.
Before you go
Book your car with cross border to Croatia included and travel without last minute paperwork. If you tell us where you are staying in Dubrovnik, we can suggest the best parking option for your plan and the simplest route for your arrival.
