24 Hours in Trebinje

more than a year ago

Trebinje isn’t a ginormous city, but it contains enough splendour and beauty to keep even the most cynical enraptured. It is possible to tick off all the main sights of the city centre in just 24 hours, but you’ll have to rush, and who wants to rush when this kind of beauty is to be enjoyed? Okay, fine, here’s how to spend 24 hours in Trebinje.

Morning

It isn’t going to come as a huge surprise to anyone who has spent any time in Bosnia & Hercegovina, but you absolutely must spend the first part of the morning drinking coffee and engaging in a spot of people-watching. The outdoor terrace of Platani is the best place, with its unbeatable view of the main square and the city market that takes place every day of the week. If you want to see the people of Trebinje at their finest, get here early. Follow this up by strolling directly into the old town, the jewel in central Trebinje’s crown, a buffet of narrow quiet streets and vibrant energetic ones. This is one of the best-preserved old towns in the country, so feel free to take your time as you dawdle from mosque to church via cafes, cafes and cafes.

Lunchtime

Seeing as you are in the old town, you might as well stop for lunch at Porto Bello, one of the finest restaurants in the city centre. History lovers can follow this up with a visit to the Museum of Herzegovina, before leaving the old town completely and heading towards the city park. One of the most tranquil churches in the region is found here, along with a number of monuments and the opportunity to watch the people of the city go about their day.

Afternoon

As the day moves on, start your walk from the city centre towards one of Trebinje’s great attractions. The Arslanagić Bridge is one of the most impressive bridges in the whole region, and one with its own curious history. Be sure to give this bridge as much time as it deserves, walk from one end to the other, and soak in the stories that have been told here since 1574.

Early Evening

Now that you’ve taken in all the bridge has to give, you need to get your strolling boots. It only takes about 20 minutes, but the walk from the bridge to the beautiful Hercegovačka Gračanica isn’t the easiest in the city. It is worth every step however, as the temple that awaits on to the top of Crkvina hill is an absolute stunner. Built-in 2000, it is here that the mortal remains of Jovan Dučić were brought, in accordance with the great poet’s last wishes. This is also undeniably the best spot in the city to take in the city, but be warned — you may find yourself falling head over heels in love with Trebinje in the process. Seeing as you are at this stunning vantage point, you should nip into Dučićev Pogled (Dučić’s View) for your evening meal.

Night

With a long walk and a beautiful sunset behind you, head back to the city centre for a few drinks before retiring for the night. The old town has a number of excellent options (Azzaro and Sportski Bar in particular), while OZ Craft Beer is just outside the centre for those after something a little finer. Either way, there is plenty to enjoy in tantalising Trebinje once the sun has gone down.

Trebinje