Daytrip from Dubrovnik, Mostar or Kotor?

We have done lots of research on both areas, and that is why we are having a hard time deciding. We were hoping that those people who have done both trips could give us their recommendation as to what trip they would take if they had to chose one over the other. Also, we typically rent a car in Europe, and have never done an organized tour by bus, although we are considering doing one for either day trip. Would love some feedback from people regarding organized tour vs renting a car. Have looked at the excursions offered by Atlas, and it appears that they do not offer a tour to Mostar on the days we are able to go. Has anyone used Elite?

My choice would be Mostar. If you're an intrepid driver, not put off by switchback roads, standard shift cars and suicidal drivers, Mostar is not to be missed. The newly refurbished bridge in itself is worth the trip. If you want some idea of the 'conflict' (and to some extent it's still going on in Mostar), take the plunge, become a local, and drink a pivo or two (the designated driver only). If money's no object, hire a driver and buckle up; you'll enjoy it more and will have an interesting and grand day in a beautiful and interesting town -going to, while there and back to Dubrovnik.

Has anyone else rented a car and driven to Mostar themselves? I'd be interested in hearing about your experience.

Isailtheseas,

Can you give me an idea of the cost to hire a private driver for a day trip to either Mostar or Montenegro?

Driver/drive yourself/bus options aside, a local driver will normally speak your lingo and his -very big advantage travelling in that part of the world once you get away from the tourist spots. S/he will also be able to take you to places which will not be found in a tour book or online. That's the ETBD way to do things and whether it's finding/renting a room/flat for one night for 50 BiH Marks or the best restaurant/cafe in town, a good driver will be the best travel consultant you'll ever find.

Thanks everyone for all your input.You have all been most helpful.

I went to both last year during my 6 month trek. If you only have 1 day then go for Mostar. After you leave you will wish you had more time there.
Duane

Duane, did you do your visit to Mostar as a daytrip, and if so, how did you visit (drive yourself, organized tour, or hired driver)?

Thanks Kent. Yes I did see it. Appreciate your help.

We drove from Dubrovnik to Kotor; it is no big deal at all. the drive around the bay that Kotor is in is cool, you take a short ferry across the mouth to head back to Dubrovnik. Very skinny road though, in front of "beach" houses.

Ireland, esp. in the west, is much hairier to drive around than Croatia.

Kotor is pretty cool, lots like Dbvnk but smaller, and dirtier, but city wall that goes straight up the mountain - the mountains above Kotor go straight up - we joked that goats must occasionally crash thru people's roofs.

Can anyone recommend a great driver/guide to go to Mostar and back from Dubrovnik?