Travel around Trebinje with Bobby
Day 1Crossing History at Arslanagić Bridge
The moment I arrived in Trebinje, I could tell this was going to be a special trip. I dropped my bags at Hotel Platani, a cozy spot right in the heart of the city, known for its blend of modern comfort and old-world charm. After a quick refresh, I was off to one of the town’s most iconic landmarks: the Arslanagić Bridge. Built during the Ottoman era, this bridge is a masterpiece of historical architecture. As I walked across its arches, with the Trebišnjica River flowing beneath me, I could almost feel the centuries of stories it had witnessed. The bridge’s location gave me a perfect view of the surrounding hills and the calm riverbanks—a peaceful introduction to Trebinje’s beauty.
For lunch, I decided to try something local at Restoran Vukoje 1982. Their lamb dish, slow-cooked and packed with flavor, was a highlight, and the accompanying glass of local Herzegovinian wine added to the experience. After the meal, I explored the Old Town, with its charming stone streets and vibrant local market. I made sure to pick up some local honey and olive oil from the market stalls—perfect souvenirs!
As the sun began to set, I headed up to the Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery. This hilltop monastery offers panoramic views of the entire region. The sunset from there was breathtaking, casting a golden glow over the town and the surrounding countryside. It was a peaceful way to end my first day in Trebinje.
If you’re short on time, visiting Arslanagić Bridge and Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery in one day will give you a perfect snapshot of Trebinje’s historical and scenic beauty. Don’t miss the chance to taste the local wine—it’s an experience in itself!
Day 2Wine, Water, and Wonder
Day two was all about relaxation and indulgence. I started with a lazy morning walk through Trebinje City Park, a green oasis where locals gather for coffee and kids run around under the shade of old trees. The park was a great place to feel the pulse of the town and mingle with friendly locals. Afterward, I was off to explore Trebinje’s renowned wine culture.
I booked a tour at Vukoje Winery, one of the most famous in the region. The winery itself is set in a stunning location, overlooking vineyards that stretch out toward the mountains. The tour was fascinating—learning about Herzegovina’s unique grape varieties and the process behind their award-winning wines. But, of course, the best part was the tasting. I tried their best selections, including a crisp Žilavka and a full-bodied Vranac. Paired with local cheeses and olives, it was a delightful experience.
After lunch at the winery, I decided to explore Trebišnjica River up close. I hopped on a small boat for a peaceful cruise along the river. It was the perfect way to unwind, with nothing but the sound of the water and the gentle breeze accompanying me. The reflections of the town on the river’s surface were like something out of a painting.
For dinner, I returned to the Old Town, where I found Restoran Studenac, a riverside restaurant with a fantastic selection of local dishes. I went for the grilled trout, fresh from the river, and it didn’t disappoint. The evening was topped off with a quiet walk along the riverbanks, enjoying the soft glow of the town’s lights reflecting on the water.
The wine tasting and lunch at Vukoje Winery was fantastic, with the local wines perfectly paired with cheeses and olives. The serene setting of the vineyard and the quality of the food made for a relaxing and indulgent experience.
Food
Returning to Hotel Platani after a day of wine tasting felt like coming home. The central location allowed for easy access to the Old Town for an evening stroll and riverside dinner.
Accomodation
The boat ride on the Trebišnjica River was calming, offering a peaceful view of Trebinje’s beauty. This simple activity added a serene and reflective moment to the day, perfect for slowing down and enjoying the town's atmosphere.
Activity
If you love wine, don’t skip Vukoje Winery. It’s a must for any wine enthusiast, and the views alone are worth the trip. The boat ride along the Trebišnjica River is the perfect way to wind down—simple, serene, and unforgettable.
Day 3Markets, Monuments, and a Taste of Tradition
On my final day in Trebinje, I wanted to soak up as much local culture as possible. I started early at the Trebinje City Market, which buzzes with energy as locals gather to buy fresh produce, handmade goods, and, of course, delicious pastries. I grabbed a burek (a savory pastry filled with meat) for breakfast—it was warm, flaky, and full of flavor.
Next, I took a stroll through the Museum of Herzegovina, which gave me deeper insight into the town’s rich history, from ancient times to the present day. It was fascinating to see how Trebinje has evolved, yet still retains its old-world charm. The museum itself is housed in a beautiful old building, adding to the experience.
For lunch, I decided to indulge in another local favorite: japrak, stuffed grape leaves served with a side of fresh bread, at Restoran Platani. The blend of herbs and spices was spot-on, and the outdoor seating under the shade of the plane trees made it a relaxing spot to take a break.
In the afternoon, I headed just outside the city to explore the Leotar Mountain. The hike to the top was challenging but totally worth it for the stunning views over Trebinje and the surrounding valley. It was the perfect way to wrap up my trip, feeling connected to both the landscape and the culture of this beautiful town.
Breakfast at the Trebinje City Market was a delightful experience, with the fresh burek providing a taste of local culture. Lunch at Restoran Platani added to the authenticity, with the traditional dish japrak packed with flavor.
Food
Hotel Platani continued to impress with its consistent quality and comfort. The staff was accommodating, and the outdoor seating for breakfast added a relaxing start to the day.
Accomodation
The Leotar Mountain hike was a rewarding challenge, with panoramic views that were absolutely worth the effort. It was the perfect way to cap off my trip, offering a deeper connection with Trebinje's natural beauty.
Activity
Trebinje’s local market is a must-visit for a taste of authentic local life. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, the hike up Leotar Mountain rewards you with unbeatable views and a sense of accomplishment.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Trebinje completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I arrived, the town’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning landscapes had me hooked. The blend of history, culture, and nature made every moment feel special, whether I was walking across the Arslanagić Bridge or sipping wine at Vukoje Winery. The people were incredibly welcoming, and I loved how relaxed and slow-paced life felt here—perfect for unwinding. The food was another highlight, with hearty traditional dishes like lamb and japrak that showcased the local flavors. Plus, the sunsets from Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery and the view from Leotar Mountain are memories I’ll never forget. In terms of convenience, everything was easily accessible. Staying at Hotel Platani made exploring the city a breeze, and I appreciated how walkable Trebinje is. Even though it’s not a huge city, it offers so much in terms of experiences, and I never felt rushed. If you’re looking for a destination off the beaten path, where you can truly immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy beautiful scenery, Trebinje is the perfect spot. It’s a hidden gem in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and I’d recommend it to anyone looking for an authentic, peaceful escape.
Lunch at Restoran Vukoje 1982 was a highlight, with their slow-cooked lamb and local wine offering rich, authentic flavors. The setting in a vineyard added to the charm, making the meal feel special and well-curated.
Food
Hotel Platani provided a perfect mix of modern comfort and old-world charm. The location in the city center made it ideal for exploring, and the rooms were spacious and clean, with friendly service.
Accomodation
Visiting the Arslanagić Bridge and Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery was a great start to the trip. Both locations offered stunning views and a deep sense of history, with the monastery providing the best sunset view in Trebinje.
Activity