Guide

Car Rental Mostar Airport (OMO): Guide for Herzegovina and Međugorje

Mostar Airport (OMO) in Ortiješ
Mostar Airport (OMO) - the entry gateway to Herzegovina, the Stari Most and Međugorje.

Mostar International Airport (OMO), located in the Ortiješ settlement just a few kilometres south of the city, is undergoing a major revival thanks to new scheduled and charter routes. This airport is the fastest and most comfortable point of entry for all travellers visiting the Herzegovina region, the world-famous shrine of Međugorje, or continuing their journey towards the Adriatic coast.

Like any smaller airport, the one in Mostar has its own specific rules and rhythm. In this guide we will show you in detail exactly what awaits you when you land, how the car pickup logistics work and how to begin your journey through Herzegovina without a single minute of unnecessary waiting.

Landing in Ortiješ: what does the procedure at the terminal look like?

The main advantage of Mostar Airport is its size and simplicity. There are no endless corridors, complicated terminals or any risk of getting lost. The entire process of passing through passport control, customs and baggage claim after the aircraft lands takes considerably less time than at large European airports.

Interior of the Mostar Airport terminal
The small, easy-to-navigate OMO airport terminal - a short stop at customs.

The only real challenge you may encounter is the lack of mass public transport or official airport buses running towards the city or Međugorje. Relying on taxis on the spot can lead to unplanned costs and haggling over prices. That is why a car booked in advance and waiting for you right in front of the terminal is the safest option for an uninterrupted continuation of your trip.

Our system for fast vehicle delivery at Mostar Airport

We value your time and we know that no one likes standing in queues after a flight. That is why we have adapted our vehicle pickup procedure so that it takes less than 10 minutes.

Welcome at the terminal exit

When making a reservation on our website, you need to leave us your flight number. Our team regularly tracks the flight schedule and aircraft status in real time. Even if your flight is delayed, our agent will wait for you right at the exit from the customs area, holding a clearly written sign with your name.

Greeting a client with a car at the OMO airport exit
Your car waits for you in the car park in front of the terminal, with no waiting at the counters.

Documentation ready to sign

To speed up the process as much as possible, before your departure you can send us a photo of your driving licence and passport. Our agent will prepare and print the rental contract in advance. At the airport we only carry out a brief joint inspection of the vehicle's condition and fuel level, after which you sign the contract and collect the keys.

Payment and deposit logistics without complications

Many foreign rent-a-car companies impose strict rules that make renting harder for travellers, such as the mandatory possession of credit cards with huge limits to block a deposit. With us the procedure is considerably more flexible and tailored to your wishes.

You can pay the cost of the car rental by credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or in cash directly when collecting the vehicle at the airport. We accept payment in euros as well as in the local currency, the convertible mark.

When it comes to the mandatory security deposit, we offer you two options. The first is a standard pre-authorisation on your credit card, which is automatically released once you return the vehicle in proper condition with a full tank. The second option, which is ideal for travellers who do not want to burden their cards, is to leave the deposit in cash on the spot. This cash deposit is returned to you in full, right into your hands, the moment you return the car and complete the rental. For more details on no-deposit options, read our no-deposit car rental guide.

Which class of car is best for Herzegovina's roads?

Herzegovina has a specific terrain, from modern main roads to narrow, winding local routes leading towards natural attractions. When choosing a vehicle from our fleet, take your planned itinerary into account.

Different car classes for Herzegovina's roads
Choosing the right car depends on your itinerary - the city, the sea or the Herzegovina karst.

For shorter trips and city driving

If you plan to stay solely in Mostar or to make a quick trip to Međugorje, economical city cars such as the Škoda Fabia or VW Polo will perfectly meet all requirements. These vehicles are light on fuel and ideal for parking in the often-full car parks around the old part of town. Not sure which engine to choose, see also our guide to choosing fuel: diesel or petrol.

For family holidays and longer routes

Compact-class models or saloons, such as the VW Golf and Škoda Octavia, offer considerably more comfort and a spacious boot for all your suitcases. These vehicles have enough power for safe overtaking on main roads and greater stability on mountain passes. If you are travelling with your family and a lot of luggage, see also our estate and SUV rental guide.

For exploring nature and adventure

If you wish to visit more remote viewpoints, drive through the Herzegovina karst or visit the mountain areas above Mostar, our recommendation is SUV models such as the Dacia Duster or Hyundai Tucson. The high ground clearance of these vehicles provides maximum protection for the undercarriage on poorer or gravel approaches.

Important information about driving, the climate and roadside assistance

During the summer months the climate in Herzegovina brings extremely high temperatures that regularly exceed 40 degrees Celsius. All vehicles in our fleet have top-quality, regularly serviced air-conditioning units, which is crucial for safe and comfortable driving in these parts.

If you plan to visit neighbouring Croatia with the rented car, head to the seaside in Makarska or Dubrovnik, or visit the Montenegrin coast, be sure to notify us when booking. On the spot we will prepare all the necessary documentation and the “Green Card” so that you can cross the border without any administrative problems. If you are planning a trip outside Bosnia and Herzegovina, see also our guide to crossing the border with a rental car.

We remind you that, under the laws of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the event of any traffic accident it is mandatory to call the police immediately on 122. The police report is the only legal document on the basis of which comprehensive insurance covers the damage incurred, so do not make any private settlements without the presence of police officers.

Your first routes after leaving Mostar Airport

The airport in Ortiješ is located in an excellent strategic position, right next to the M17 main road that connects the north and south of the country.

Towards Međugorje

After leaving the airport, you join the M17 main road heading south, and then follow the clear signs to turn off towards Čitluk and Međugorje. The road is in excellent condition, the drive takes about 25 to 30 minutes and leads you through the beautiful Herzegovina vineyards.

The road from Mostar Airport towards Međugorje
The road towards Međugorje leads through the Herzegovina vineyards, a 25-30 minute drive.

Towards the centre of Mostar

From the airport car park you head north, following the M17 main road directly towards the city. The centre and the Old Town are about 7 kilometres away, which takes around 10 minutes outside the traffic rush hour. Be careful, as speed-camera checks are frequent on this route.

The centre of Mostar and the Stari Most
The centre of Mostar and the Stari Most - 7 km, a 10-minute drive along the M17 main road.

Book your vehicle on time, secure a fixed price with no hidden costs and let us make the start of your stay in Herzegovina as efficient and pleasant as possible. Have a safe trip! For business clients and VIP travel, our premium chauffeur service is also available.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the drive from OMO Airport to Mostar and the Stari Most take?

The drive from Mostar Airport (OMO) in Ortiješ to the centre of Mostar and the Stari Most takes about 10 minutes outside rush hour. The distance is 7 km along the M17 main road. During the afternoon rush hour (16:00-18:00) on the section around Tekija, allow 20-25 minutes. Parking is easiest to find near the Franciscan Church or behind the National Theatre.

Can I reach Međugorje from OMO Airport?

Yes, Međugorje is only a 25-30 minute drive from OMO Airport. After leaving the airport you join the M17 main road heading south, then follow the signs for Čitluk and Međugorje. The road is in excellent condition and leads through the Herzegovina vineyards.

Can I take the rented car to Croatia (Makarska, Dubrovnik)?

Yes, crossing the border into Croatia is allowed. The nearest border crossings are Bijača (60 min to Makarska) and Doljani (90 min to Dubrovnik). Be sure to notify us of your crossing plans when booking, so that we can prepare the Green Card and the necessary documentation for you.

What is the climate like in Herzegovina and do the cars have air-conditioning?

In summer Herzegovina has extremely high temperatures, regularly over 40°C. All vehicles in our fleet have top-quality, regularly serviced air-conditioning units, which is crucial for safe driving in these conditions. We recommend not leaving the car parked in the sun for long without shade.

Is it safe to drive through the Herzegovina karst?

The Herzegovina karst has a specific terrain with narrow, winding roads, but the main routes are in excellent condition. For exploring nature and more remote viewpoints we recommend SUV models such as the Dacia Duster or Hyundai Tucson because of their high ground clearance. Watch out for speed-camera checks and the high summer temperatures.

How do payment and the deposit work?

Payment is arranged at pickup — we accept cash (EUR or KM) and, for part of the fleet, cards (Visa and Mastercard). The deposit depends on the insurance you choose: with Basic insurance a €1100 hold is placed on your card (excess up to €1100), while Full coverage means no deposit and no excess, plus 24/7 roadside assistance across Europe. For part of the fleet the deposit is left in cash (€300–500) and fully returned when you bring the car back. The exact options for each vehicle are shown on its page.

Amer Hodžić - autor članaka
Amer Hodžić @hoodzic__a28

Author of articles about traveling through BiH and tips for tourists.

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