Complete Travel Guide to Neum, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Neum Neum is a town and municipality in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is the only town on the Bosnia and Herzegovina coastline, making it the country's only access to the Adriatic Sea. As of 2022, Neum municipality was estimated to have had a population of 4,358 occupants, Additionally, in the year of 2013 Neum had a population of 4,653. As a municipal center, Neum serves as an important administrative and economic hub for the surrounding region, providing essential services and infrastructure that support both urban and rural communities. Positioned at coordinates 42.92333°N, 17.61556°E, Neum occupies a geographically significant location that has influenced its historical development and contemporary importance. The precise geographic coordinates of Neum place it within a region characterized by diverse landscapes and strategic transportation routes that have shaped settlement patterns for centuries. At an elevation of 0.0 meters above sea level, Neum benefits from unique topographic advantages that influence local climate, agriculture, and scenic beauty. The elevation of Neum creates distinctive environmental conditions that support specific ecosystems and agricultural practices while providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Home to 3236 residents, Neum maintains a community scale that balances urban amenities with traditional social structures and cultural continuity. The population of Neum represents a diverse community that has adapted to changing circumstances while preserving essential cultural traditions and local knowledge. Community life in Neum reflects the resilience and adaptability that characterize populations throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, demonstrating successful integration of traditional values with contemporary opportunities. Within the broader context of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina province, Neum contributes to the cultural and economic diversity that defines Bosnia and Herzegovina's regional character. The role of Neum in regional development extends beyond its municipal boundaries, encompassing influences on transportation networks, economic activities, and cultural preservation efforts. Visitors to Neum discover a destination that embodies the authentic character of Bosnia and Herzegovina while offering unique local perspectives and experiences unavailable in more commercialized locations.

Historical Heritage of Neum

History Further information: Bosansko Primorje The Neum corridor dates back to the Treaty of Karlowitz of 1699, whereby the Republic of Ragusa was separated from the Dalmatian possessions of its rival Venice by two buffer zones ceded by Ragusa to the Ottoman Empire to prevent the possibility of Venice invading via land: north of its territory is Neum and the bay of Klek, and south of its territory is Sutorina with the port of Herceg Novi on the Bay of Kotor, part of Montenegro since 1947 (later the topic of the now-resolved Sutorina dispute).

The Ottoman period significantly influenced the architectural and cultural development of Neum, leaving lasting impacts on local traditions and urban planning The Karlowitz borders were reaffirmed in 1718 by the Treaty of Passarowitz, but then the Ottomans, tired of negotiating in vain with Venice for a widening of their maritime access, simply usurped the territory of Gornji Klek and most of Klek from Ragusa, which it had bought from King Dabiša of Bosnia at the end of the 14th century.

The Ottoman period significantly influenced the architectural and cultural development of Neum, leaving lasting impacts on local traditions and urban planning After the fall of the Republic of Venice in 1797, and the Congress of Vienna in 1815, the Austrian Empire, which had annexed both the Dalmatian possessions of Venice and the territory of Ragusa, tried to buy back the Neum and Sutorina enclaves from the Ottomans, but in vain.

The Ottoman period significantly influenced the architectural and cultural development of Neum, leaving lasting impacts on local traditions and urban planning Instead, it stationed a warship to block access to the port of Neum until the Treaty of Berlin, which gave the whole of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Austria-Hungary in 1878.

Neum had been under Ottoman control for 179 years The Ottoman period significantly influenced the architectural and cultural development of Neum, leaving lasting impacts on local traditions and urban planning Consideration was given to a plan to build a new advanced naval base at Neum- Klek by the Austro-Hungarian Navy.

General Franz Conrad von Hötzendorf considered fortifying Neum with coastal batteries and torpedo craft to supplement seafront defenses (in order to prevent Italian raids, or worse a large scale Italian landing) The project never got past the planning stage prior to the outbreak of World War I in 1914.

Memorial to Croatian veterans in Neum In 1918, as a consequence of Austro-Hungarian defeat, Neum joined the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats and Slovenes which would become the Kingdom of Yugoslavia in 1929 Under the Karađorđević dynasty, the Yugoslav Government ignored the historical borders twice: in 1929, when the Neum area was included in the Littoral Banovina, and in 1939 when, following the Cvetković–Maček Agreement, it was included in the Banovina of Croatia.

Josip Broz Tito's federal Yugoslavia was founded on the principle, declared at the 1943 AVNOJ session in Jajce and comparatively well-respected by the _Đilas commission_ in 1945, of establishing the federative republics in their borders of 1878, which is why the Neum enclave is now part of independent Bosnia and Herzegovina, including most of Klek (Ponta Kleka, Rep Kleka), the two islets Veliki and Mali Školj and the rock of Lopata in the Bay of Klek.

Since the 1990s, Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina have been in negotiations on how to handle traffic across the Neum region, including signing a Neum Agreement When Croatia was admitted to the European Union in 2013, the border crossings in the Neum region became gov.

The historical trajectory of Neum demonstrates the complex interplay between local agency and external influences that has characterized regional development throughout successive historical periods. Understanding this historical context provides essential background for appreciating the depth and authenticity of contemporary cultural expressions.

Historical preservation efforts in Neum reflect community commitment to maintaining connections with ancestral heritage while adapting to contemporary circumstances. These preservation activities create opportunities for visitors to experience authentic historical environments and traditional practices.

The legacy of historical development in Neum remains visible in architectural styles, urban planning patterns, cultural traditions, and social organizations that provide continuity between past and present while supporting future community development.

Geographic Environment and Natural Setting

Geography Neum is the only town situated along Bosnia and Herzegovina's 20-kilometre (12 mi) coastline, making it the country's only access to the Adriatic Sea. It is enclosed by the Klek Peninsula, which itself is separated from the Adriatic Sea by the Pelješac peninsula Neum is 47 km (29 mi) northwest of Dubrovnik, 50 km (31 mi) south of Mostar, and 122 km (76 mi) southwest of Sarajevo, the country's capital. The Bosnia and Herzegovina coastal strip of Neum cuts off the southernmost Croatian exclave from the rest of Croatia. This is a result of the Treaty of Karlowitz of 1699. Since 1991 and the breakup of Yugoslavia, the border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Neum region have been international borders. * Neum * Promenade along Neum's shoreline * Waterpolo court in Neum * Zenička beach in Neum * Residential Neum * Neum Lighthouse * Feral Beach on the southern side of Neum peninsula #Subdivision The municipality includes the town of Neum (municipal seat) and several villages: Babin Do, Borut, Brestica, Broćanac, Brštanica, Cerovica, Cerovo, Crnoglav, Dobri Do, Dobrovo, Donji Drijen, Donji Zelenikovac, Dubravica, Duži, Glumina, Gornje Hrasno, Gradac, Hotanj Hutovski, Hutovo, Kiševo, Moševići, Prapratnica, Previš, Rabrani, Vinine and Žukovica. #Border crossings Neum has two border crossing checkpoints with Croatia on the European route E65 or Adriatic Highway which connects the two parts of Croatia's Dalmatian coast. Neum 1 is located to the northwest of the city, with the Klek border checkpoint on the Croatian side. Neum 2 is located to the southeast, with the Croatian border checkpoint at Zaton Doli. "CIA - The World Factbook -- Field Listing - Coastline". Archived from the original on 13 June 2007. Retrieved 16 November 2023. Bosnia-and-Herzegovina Neum britannica. com, _britannica. com_ , 2015-09-09 3. UNEP / PAP/RAC / Ministarstvo spoljne trgovine i ekonomskih odnosa BiH. 1 Prijedlog za CAMP oblast". _Program upravljanja obalnim područjem (CAMP) Bosne i Hercegovine_ (pdf) (Studija izvodljivosti ed. Retrieved 6 November 2022. [_permanent dead link_] 4. "Naseljena Mjesta 1991/2013" (in Bosnian). Statistical Office of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Retrieved 10 October 2021.

The topographic characteristics of Neum result from complex geological processes that have created distinctive landscape features supporting diverse ecosystems and human activities. These natural features provide both opportunities and constraints that have influenced settlement patterns and economic development throughout history.

Hydrological systems in the Neum region play crucial roles in supporting natural ecosystems and human communities through provision of water resources, transportation routes, and agricultural irrigation. Understanding these water systems helps explain historical settlement patterns and contemporary development opportunities.

Soil composition and agricultural potential in the Neum area reflect the interaction of geological substrate, climatic conditions, and human management practices that have created productive agricultural systems supporting local food security and economic development.

Natural resource availability in Neum has historically influenced economic activities and settlement patterns while continuing to provide opportunities for sustainable development that balances economic needs with environmental conservation.

The relationship between geographic features and human settlement in Neum demonstrates sophisticated adaptation strategies that maximize advantages while minimizing risks associated with natural hazards and environmental constraints.

Seasonal variations in the geographic character of Neum create changing opportunities for agricultural production, outdoor recreation, and transportation that influence the rhythm of community life and economic activities throughout the year.

Climate Patterns and Environmental Conditions

Climate The climate of the area is Mediterranean, characterized by mild winters and dry summers, with three times more rain in the rainier than in the drier months, during which the mean precipitation does not exceed 40 mm (1. Rainfall patterns in Neum determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. The mean yearly precipitation observed is of 1,316 mm (51. Rainfall patterns in Neum determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. The dominant winds come from the north, north-east and north-west. The average sea temperature (as observed in Neum) ranges from 13 °C (55 °F) in January to 28 °C (82 °F) in July and August. Temperature patterns in Neum influence agricultural cycles, tourism seasons, and daily life rhythms throughout the year. Vegetation is the evergreen Mediterranean type, and subtropical flora (palm trees, agaves, cacti) grow in Neum and its surroundings. Climate data for Neum Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 9. 0) Daily mean °C (°F) 6. 4) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) 3. 7) Average precipitation mm (inches) 135 (5. Rainfall patterns in Neum determine water availability and agricultural productivity, shaping economic activities and settlement patterns. 2) [citation needed] #Ethnic composition The settlement is predominantly composed of Croats. Bosniaks are the second- largest demographic, followed by Serbs. Other ethnicities include Albanians, Montenegrins and Yugoslavs. Ethnic composition – Neum town 2013. Total 3,013 (100%) 1,651 (100%) 602 (100%) 360 (100%) Croats 2,938 (97. 06%) Bosniaks 33 (1. 833%) Serbs 21 (0. 778%) Unaffiliated 6 (0. 199%) Albanians 3 (0. 664%) Unknown 3 (0. 389%) Yugoslavs 2 (0. 944%) Montenegrins 2 (0. 997%) Macedonians 1 (0. 166%) Ethnic composition – Neum municipality 2013. Total 4,960 (100%) 4,325 (100%) 4,030 (100%) Croats 4,543 (97. 71%) Bosniaks 63 (1. 896%) Serbs 21 (0. 442%) Unaffiliated 7 (0. 15%) Unknown 7 (0. 15%) Albanians 3 (0. 124%) Others 3 (0. 422%) Yugoslavs 2 (0. 208%) Montenegrins 2 (0. 174%) Macedonians 1 (0.

The climatic regime of Neum reflects the complex interaction of geographic location, topographic features, and regional weather patterns that create distinctive seasonal characteristics influencing both natural ecosystems and human activities throughout the year.

Temperature variations in Neum create distinct seasonal periods that influence agricultural cycles, energy consumption patterns, and outdoor activity opportunities while requiring adaptive strategies for housing, clothing, and food preservation.

Precipitation patterns in Neum determine water availability for agricultural production, urban consumption, and natural ecosystem maintenance while influencing the timing of traditional festivals and seasonal economic activities.

Seasonal weather patterns in Neum create varying opportunities for different types of economic activities, recreational pursuits, and cultural celebrations that contribute to the distinctive rhythm of community life throughout the year.

The interaction between climate and human adaptation in Neum demonstrates sophisticated traditional knowledge systems for managing seasonal variations while taking advantage of favorable conditions for agriculture, construction, and outdoor activities.

Climate considerations for visitors to Neum include understanding seasonal variations in temperature, precipitation, and daylight hours that influence the availability of different activities and the appropriate preparation for outdoor exploration and cultural participation.

Cultural Heritage and Community Traditions

Culture and sport The linđo is traditionally danced in the Neum region. Neum celebrates the feast of Our Lady of Good Health as its municipal day. As part of the celebrations, Neum hosts the Music Festival Etnofest Neum. The town also hosts the Neum Animated Film Festival. Neum is home to local branches of the cultural organizations Matica hrvatska and HKD Napredak. Popular activities include swimming, sun bathing, beach-going, boating, and various other water-sports. Neum has a water polo club VK Jadran Neum, which is a member of the Croatian Water Polo Federation. There is also an association football club HNK Neum. * Folk costumes from Neum * Roman Catholic church in Neum * Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of Health * Hutovo fortress ruins * Stećak from Neum 1. Archived from the original on 10 June 2008. Retrieved 2 September 2008. Neum Animated Film Festival Archived 2008-09-16 at the Wayback Machine 3. “Matica hrvatska”. [permanent dead link].

The cultural landscape of Neum represents a living repository of traditions, customs, and social practices that have evolved over centuries while maintaining essential characteristics that define community identity and provide continuity between generations.

Social organization in Neum reflects sophisticated systems for maintaining community cohesion and mutual support that have enabled the population to preserve cultural traditions while adapting to changing economic and political circumstances.

Traditional arts and crafts in Neum continue to flourish as expressions of cultural identity and sources of economic opportunity, providing visitors with authentic opportunities to observe skilled artisans practicing techniques transmitted through family and community networks.

Religious and spiritual practices in Neum provide insights into the values and beliefs that guide community decision-making and social interaction while creating frameworks for cultural continuity and adaptation to contemporary circumstances.

Language use and cultural expression in Neum demonstrate the dynamic relationship between tradition and innovation as communities maintain linguistic heritage while adapting to contemporary communication needs and educational opportunities.

Cultural festivals and community celebrations in Neum provide opportunities for visitors to experience authentic traditional practices while participating in community life and supporting local cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Activities and Development Patterns

The economic structure of Neum reflects a complex balance between traditional livelihoods and contemporary opportunities that enables the community to maintain economic stability while preserving cultural values and environmental sustainability.

Traditional economic activities in Neum often center around sustainable resource management practices that have been refined over generations to maximize productivity while maintaining environmental balance and community welfare.

Local markets and commercial activities in Neum serve as important centers of community life where economic transactions intersect with social interaction and cultural exchange, providing visitors with opportunities to observe traditional trading practices.

Agricultural production in Neum demonstrates sophisticated adaptation to local environmental conditions while maintaining traditional crop varieties and farming techniques that support both food security and cultural continuity.

Service sector development in Neum has evolved to accommodate external economic connections while maintaining authentic community character and traditional approaches to hospitality and customer service.

Economic development opportunities in Neum focus on sustainable approaches that build upon existing community strengths while creating new opportunities for education, employment, and cultural preservation.

Transportation and Regional Connectivity

Transportation infrastructure serving Neum reflects the balance between accessibility and preservation of community character that characterizes regional development throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Road networks, public transportation options, and traditional travel methods create multiple approaches for reaching and exploring Neum.

Regional connectivity from Neum provides access to broader transportation networks while maintaining the authentic character that distinguishes this destination from more commercialized locations. Understanding transportation options helps visitors plan efficient and respectful approaches to exploration.

Visitor Attractions and Cultural Experiences

Tourism Neum has steep hills, stone-sandy beaches, and several large tourist hotels. Neum has about 7,000 beds for tourists, 1,810 in hotels with the remaining capacity in motels, villas, and private accommodation. Tourism in Neum is active only in the coastal region. Prices tend to be lower than in neighbouring Croatia, making it popular with shoppers. Tourism, and the commerce it brings, is the leading contributor to the economy of the area. The inland area behind Neum has a rich archeological history and wilderness with centuries-old olive groves. 1. dadolino (28 September 2018). “Visit Neum | To Bosnia”. tobosnia.com. Retrieved 6 August 2025. 2. Thomas, Mark. “Neum Emerges as the Affordable Alternative to Croatia in Post-Season Getaways, Says The Sun - The Dubrovnik Times”. www.thedubrovniktimes.com. Retrieved 6 August 2025.

Tourism opportunities in Neum emphasize authentic cultural experiences and meaningful interaction with local communities rather than commercialized attractions, providing visitors with genuine insights into traditional ways of life.

Planning Your Visit to Neum

Successful visits to Neum require preparation that extends beyond typical travel planning, as this destination rewards visitors who approach it with cultural sensitivity, environmental awareness, and genuine interest in learning from local communities and traditions.

The most meaningful experiences in Neum often emerge from patient observation, respectful participation in community activities, and willingness to adapt expectations to local customs and environmental conditions rather than imposing external standards or expectations.

Practical considerations for visiting Neum include understanding seasonal variations in weather and activity availability, respecting local customs and social protocols, and supporting community-based economic activities that contribute to cultural preservation and sustainable development.

The rewards of visiting Neum extend far beyond the duration of your stay, as the insights gained from experiencing authentic traditional culture often influence perspectives and values long after returning home, providing new understanding of human potential and community cooperation.