Neum is a coastal town and municipality in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, serving as the country's only access to the Adriatic Sea with a narrow 20-kilometer (12-mile) coastline. Located approximately 60 km from Dubrovnik, Croatia, and 70 km from Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Neum spans 246.03 km² and has a population of around 4,653 (2013 census), with estimates at 4,358 in 2022. It is governed by Mayor Dragan Jurković of the Croatian Democratic Union of Bosnia and Herzegovina (HDZ BiH). Known for its serene beaches, affordable accommodations, and strategic position dividing Croatian territory, Neum has evolved into a budget-friendly seaside resort, attracting visitors seeking a less crowded alternative to neighboring Croatian destinations like Dubrovnik. The town's economy thrives on tourism and cross-border shopping due to lower prices, while its history as a buffer zone adds layers of geopolitical intrigue. As of 2025, infrastructure improvements, including new roads supported by the World Bank and European Investment Bank, are boosting local jobs and connectivity, enhancing its appeal for eco-tourism and cultural exploration. Often described as a "hidden coastal gem," Neum offers a blend of Mediterranean charm, subtropical flora, and proximity to historical sites, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and budget travelers.
Neum's attractions emphasize its coastal beauty, cultural events, and
proximity to regional sites. Here are key highlights:
Neum Beach
and Promenade: The main pebble beach stretches along the bay with clear
Adriatic waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like
jet-skiing. Free access, with umbrellas and loungers for rent
(~5-10€/day).
Water Polo Club VK Jadran Neum: A local sports hub
affiliated with the Croatian Water Polo Federation; watch matches or
participate in summer tournaments.
Neum Animated Film Festival and
Etnofest Neum: Annual summer events featuring international films and
ethnic music; the latter celebrates local folklore.
Our Lady of Good
Health Church: A central religious site tied to the municipal day feast,
offering insight into Croat heritage.
Inland Archaeological Sites and
Olive Groves: Explore centuries-old ruins and hike through wilderness;
Hutovo Blato Nature Park nearby for birdwatching.
Day Trips to Nearby
Sites: Easy access to Mostar’s Stari Most bridge or Dubrovnik (though
border checks apply).
Neum offers a relaxed, affordable Adriatic escape with fewer crowds than Croatia, perfect for a 2-3 day stay. Arrive by bus from Sarajevo (4-5 hours) or Dubrovnik (1 hour), noting quick border crossings. The town is walkable, with uphill paths to viewpoints and a seaside promenade for evening strolls. Accommodations range from budget hostels (15-30€/night) to hotels like Grand Hotel Neum (50-100€). Dine on fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Bosnian wines at waterfront restaurants—meals average 10-20€. Best visited June-September for warm weather, or spring/fall for milder crowds. In 2025, expect enhanced sustainability focus, with eco-tours and improved roads. Tips: Carry ID for borders; use local currency (BAM) or euros; avoid peak July-August heat; and combine with Bosnia's inland highlights for a fuller trip. Neum's charm lies in its simplicity—serene seas, cultural vibes, and value—making it a underrated gem in the Balkans.
By Air
Neum has no airport, so fly into a nearby one (often in
Croatia) and continue by bus, taxi, or rental car. Border crossings add
time.
Dubrovnik Airport (DBV, Croatia): Closest at about 65 km
(1-1.5 hours drive). Flights from major European cities. From DBV, take
a bus via Dubrovnik Central Bus Station (e.g., Libertas Dubrovnik or
Autobusni Kolodvor lines) to Neum, around 1.5-2 hours total, costing
€10-20.
Split Airport (SPU, Croatia): About 150 km (2-3 hours drive)
north. More flight options. Buses from SPU to Neum via Ploče or direct
coastal routes take 3-4 hours.
Mostar Airport (OMO): Around 70 km
(1-1.5 hours) inland in Bosnia. Limited seasonal flights. Taxis or buses
from here are straightforward, no international borders.
Sarajevo
International Airport (SJJ): Farthest at 200 km (3-4 hours drive). Main
Bosnian hub with international connections. Continue by bus or car.
By Bus
Buses are convenient and budget-friendly, with services
from Bosnian cities and Croatia. Neum's bus station is central.
From Dubrovnik (Croatia): Frequent buses (e.g., Autobusni Kolodvor), 1-2
hours, €10-15. Involves two quick border crossings.
From Split
(Croatia): Direct or via Ploče, 3-4 hours, €20-30. Use companies like
Promet Makarska or FlixBus; highway route via Dugopolje avoids extra
borders but adds tolls (~€7).
From Sarajevo: Direct buses (e.g.,
Centrotrans or Bookaway), 4-5 hours, €20-30. Departs from main Sarajevo
station; arrives at Neum's station.
From Mostar: About 1.5-2 hours,
frequent connections, €10-15.
Book via Bookaway or Rome2Rio for
schedules; expect scenic coastal views but potential border delays in
peak season.
By Train
Bosnia's train network is limited, and
Neum has no station. The nearest viable rail hub is Ploče (Croatia, 30
km north) or Mostar (70 km inland).
From Sarajevo to Mostar:
Train takes 2-3 hours with nice scenery, then bus/taxi to Neum (1.5
hours total add-on).
From Split or Dubrovnik: No direct trains to
Neum; Croatian trains stop at Ploče, then bus south (30-45 minutes).
Trains are scenic but infrequent; buses are more practical for most
travelers.
By Car
Driving allows flexibility along the
stunning Adriatic highway, but prepare for two border crossings
(Croatia-Bosnia-Croatia) if coming from the north or south—usually quick
(5-10 minutes each) but can queue in summer.
From Dubrovnik: 65
km (1 hour) north on D8 coastal road.
From Split: 150 km (2-3 hours)
via D8 or faster A1 highway to Ploče (tolls ~€7), then south.
From
Sarajevo: 200 km (3-4 hours) via M17 through Mostar.
From Mostar: 70
km (1 hour) southwest.
Rentals available at airports; you'll need an
international driving permit and valid insurance for border crossings.
Roads are well-maintained but winding—use apps like ViaMichelin. Fuel is
cheaper in Bosnia.
Neum is nestled along the Adriatic coast, enclosed by Croatia's Klek Peninsula to the north and the Pelješac Peninsula to the south, creating a unique corridor that interrupts Croatian territory. Positioned at coordinates approximately 42°55′N 17°37′E, the town lies in a bay with steep hills rising behind it, offering dramatic views of the sea. The municipality includes the main town and several villages such as Babin Do, Brestica, Broćanac, and Hutovo, extending inland to rugged karst landscapes with olive groves and wilderness areas. Two border crossings with Croatia—Neum 1 (to Klek) and Neum 2 (to Zaton Doli)—facilitate travel along the European route E65 (Adriatic Highway). The coastline features stony-sandy beaches and clear waters, while the inland areas are characterized by archaeological sites and natural reserves. The 2022 opening of Croatia's Pelješac Bridge has eased traffic congestion around Neum, allowing smoother passage for visitors while maintaining its role as an external EU border since Croatia's 2013 EU accession. Recent 2025 developments include new roads connecting Neum to towns like Stolac, revitalizing local economies and improving access.
Neum enjoys a Mediterranean climate (Köppen: Csa) with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, influenced by its coastal position. Annual precipitation averages 1,316 mm (51.8 in), mostly falling from October to March, supporting lush vegetation including palm trees, agaves, and cacti. Summers see average highs of 29.7°C (85.5°F) in July, with sea temperatures reaching 28°C (82°F), ideal for swimming. Winters are cooler, with January highs around 9.7°C (49.5°F) and lows at 3.6°C (38.5°F). Dominant winds from the north and northwest provide a refreshing breeze, making the area comfortable year-round. As of 2025, climate patterns remain stable, though visitors should note occasional bura winds in winter.
Neum's history is rooted in its role as a strategic buffer zone. The corridor originated from the 1699 Treaty of Karlowitz, where the Republic of Ragusa (Dubrovnik) ceded Neum and Klek to the Ottoman Empire to prevent Venetian incursions, confirmed by the 1718 Treaty of Passarowitz. Under Ottoman rule for 179 years, it passed to Austria-Hungary via the 1878 Treaty of Berlin. Plans for an Austro-Hungarian naval base at Neum-Klek were abandoned before World War I. Post-1918, Neum joined the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (later Yugoslavia), with borders adjusted in the socialist era. During World War II and the subsequent Yugoslav federation, it remained part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 1990s Bosnian War saw minimal direct conflict in Neum, but post-independence negotiations with Croatia addressed transit issues, culminating in the 1996 Neum Agreement. Croatia's EU entry in 2013 turned Neum's borders into EU external frontiers, and the 2022 Pelješac Bridge bypassed the town, reducing border delays. In 2025, ongoing discussions include potential freight port development in Neum, though ecological concerns in the Bay of Mali Ston persist. The area also features ancient archaeological sites, adding to its historical allure.
The 2013 census reported 4,653 residents in the municipality, with 3,013 in the town itself, showing a slight decline to 4,358 by 2022 estimates. Population growth was evident pre-war: from 4,030 in 1981 to 4,325 in 1991, but post-war stabilization reflects migration patterns. Ethnically, Neum is overwhelmingly Croat-dominated at 97.64% (4,543) in the municipality and 97.51% (2,938) in the town, with Bosniaks at 1.40% (63) and Serbs at 0.45% (21). This marks a shift from 1991 figures (municipality: Croats 87.68%, Bosniaks 4.39%, Serbs 4.79%), influenced by the Bosnian War and subsequent returns. Smaller groups include Albanians and Montenegrins. The community maintains a multi-ethnic character, though Croat culture predominates, with Croatian often used alongside Bosnian.
Neum's economy is driven by tourism and commerce, benefiting from lower VAT and excise taxes compared to Croatia, drawing shoppers for groceries, fuel, and souvenirs. With about 7,000 tourist beds (1,810 in hotels, plus motels and private stays), the sector generates significant revenue, though it's seasonal and coastal-focused. Inland areas feature olive production and wilderness tourism. As of 2025, Bosnia and Herzegovina's tourism is growing steadily, with Neum contributing through sustainable initiatives and increased visitor numbers from families and nature enthusiasts. Challenges include limited infrastructure, but recent World Bank-funded roads are creating jobs in construction and services. Overall, tourism supports economic growth, export revenues, and employment, positioning Neum as an affordable Adriatic hub.