Old Town: best for a short, walk-first stay
Stay on either side of Stari Most if you have one night, want to be out early for the bridge, and do not mind foot traffic outside the door. Traditional-house guesthouses put the bazaar, mosque, and river within a few minutes' walk. The trade-off is access: lanes are narrow, cobbled, and awkward with rolling luggage, while nearby parking can be limited. Confirm where the host expects you to leave a car before arrival, not after entering the pedestrian area.
West bank and the station side: easier arrival logistics
The west bank works better for travellers arriving by bus or train and for anyone who wants a flatter walk to restaurants and services. It is still walkable to the bridge, generally 10–20 minutes depending on the address, but feels less like sleeping inside the historic core. Choose this side if you have an early departure, a rental car, or prefer a hotel with a reception and on-site parking. It is also the more forgiving choice for families carrying bags or travellers with reduced mobility.
Choose the room type around your trip
A guesthouse or apartment is usually the better value for two or more nights, particularly if you need a kitchen or laundry. A hotel is simpler for late check-in, airport or station transfers, and a guaranteed parking arrangement. Check whether the quoted room faces a busy road, the river, or an inner courtyard; the Old Town can stay noisy into the evening in high season. If Mostar is your base for Blagaj, Počitelj, or Kravice, make parking the deciding factor and read the day-trip notes before booking.