Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina: general info for travelers

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country located in Southeast Europe, bordered by Serbia to the east, Montenegro to the southeast, and Croatia to the north and west. It has a diverse landscape, with mountain ranges in the north and south, and a narrow coastline along the Adriatic Sea. The official languages are Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian, while Islam, Orthodox Christianity, and Catholicism are the major religions practiced.
The country has a rich cultural history, with influences from the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empires. Its capital city, Sarajevo, is known for its beautiful architecture and lively cultural scene. Other major cities include Mostar, Banja Luka, and Tuzla.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several national parks and nature reserves, including the Sutjeska National Park, which is home to the country's highest peak and oldest primeval forest. The country is also known for its traditional cuisine, which includes dishes such as cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (pastry filled with meat or cheese), and baklava (sweet pastry).
Overall, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an exciting and rewarding destination for travelers.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: places to visit

Sure, here are the main places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina with descriptions: 1. Sarajevo - The capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a vibrant and fascinating destination with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious food. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, the somber War Childhood Museum, and experience the local culture at the lively Baščaršija bazaar.
2. Mostar - Known for its iconic bridge spanning the Neretva River, Mostar is a picturesque city with a fascinating mix of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture. Visitors can wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, explore the ancient mosques and churches, and enjoy panoramic views from the surrounding hills.
3. Blagaj - Located just south of Mostar, Blagaj is a charming village nestled at the base of a rocky bluff and surrounded by crystal-clear waters. It's home to the stunning Blagaj Tekke, a 16th-century Ottoman-era Dervish monastery, and makes a great stop on a day trip from Mostar.
4. Jajce - Set amid the picturesque countryside of central Bosnia, Jajce is a small town with a big history. It was the last fortress of the Bosnian kings and features a beautiful 17-meter-tall waterfall that tumbles into the town's center.
5. Visegrad - Situated along the Drina River, Visegrad is a charming town with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the impressive Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the nearby Andricgrad, a unique complex of buildings inspired by the works of Nobel laureate Ivo Andric. 6. Kravice Waterfalls - One of the country's most stunning natural attractions, the Kravice Waterfalls are a series of cascading falls and crystal-clear pools amid lush greenery. Visitors can swim in the pools and hike to nearby viewpoints for breathtaking views.
These are just a few of the many beautiful and fascinating places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
There is more to see and do in Bosnia and Herzegovina: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a continental climate, characterized by hot and humid summers, and cold and snowy winters. Spring and autumn tend to be mild and pleasant. The best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina depends on your preferences, activities, and interests. If you want to explore the cities and cultural sites, May, June, and September are the ideal months when the weather is mild and pleasant. If you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rafting, summer months of July and August are the best time to visit. The average temperature during this time is around 30°C (86°F), so be prepared for the heat.
Winter is perfect for skiing and snow sports enthusiasts, especially from December to March when the mountains are covered with snow and the temperatures are low. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide when to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, depending on your interests and the activities you plan to do.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: activities and what to do

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a variety of activities and sports for tourists. Some of the most popular activities and sports include: 1. Hiking and walking: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a lot of beautiful natural landscapes that make it perfect for hiking and walking. There are many trails through the mountains and forests that offer stunning views of the country.
2. Water sports: Bosnia and Herzegovina has many rivers and lakes that offer great opportunities for water sports. Rafting, kayaking, and canoeing are popular activities.
3. Skiing: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several ski resorts that offer excellent skiing opportunities. Jahorina, Bjelašnica and Igman are the most popular resorts.
4. Cycling: Bosnia and Herzegovina is becoming more cycling-friendly, with many paths through the countryside and mountainous areas.
5. War tours: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich cultural and historical heritage, and many tours are available that focus on the country's history and its recent war.
6. Food and wine tours: Bosnia and Herzegovina is famous for its wine and food. Many tours are available where visitors can sample traditional dishes and wines.
Overall, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers many activities and sports that cater to different interests and preferences.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: few words on history and culture

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country located in southeastern Europe, known for its rich and diverse cultural heritage that has been shaped by various civilizations and influences over time. During the medieval period, the country was part of the Bosnian Kingdom, a powerful state that emerged in the 12th century, blending Western European, Byzantine, and Islamic influences.
In the centuries that followed, Bosnia and Herzegovina fell under the control of various empires, including the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Yugoslavian Federation. This led to the development of a unique cultural identity that reflects a blend of Eastern and Western traditions, with strong influences from Islamic, Catholic, and Orthodox religions.
Today, Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to many cultural landmarks that reflect its rich history and heritage. Some of the most famous include the Old Bridge in Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century, the Stari Grad (Old Town) in Sarajevo, and the Kozara National Park, which is home to many archaeological sites and ancient ruins.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: how to move around on holiday

There are different ways to reach and visit Bosnia and Herzegovina depending on your location and preferences. Here are some options: 1. By plane: The main international airport in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Sarajevo International Airport, which has connections to several European cities. Other airports in the country include Mostar, Tuzla, and Banja Luka.
2. By car: You can also reach Bosnia and Herzegovina by car, either by driving your own vehicle or by renting one. The country has several border crossings with neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro.
3. By bus: Many international and local bus lines connect Bosnia and Herzegovina to other cities in the region. The main bus stations are in Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka.
4. By train: Although the train network is not very developed in Bosnia and Herzegovina, there are some international and domestic train connections.
Once you are in the country, there are several options to visit different cities and attractions, including buses, trains, taxis, and rental cars. To hire a car to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Bosnia and Herzegovina: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some of the main typical foods of Bosnia and Herzegovina with a brief description: 1. Ćevapi - Grilled minced meat rolled into small sausages, usually served with onions and a type of flatbread called lepinja.
2. Burek - A type of savory pastry made of phyllo dough and filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables.
3. Sarma - Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of ground meat and rice, usually served with sour cream.
4. Bosanski Lonac - A hearty stew made with various types of meat, potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables.
5. Kljukuša - A potato and cheese dish made by layering sliced potatoes and cheese, then baking in the oven until bubbly.
6. Klepe - Dumplings filled with a mixture of ground meat and spices, usually served in a clear broth.
7. Sogan-dolma - Stuffed onions filled with rice, meat, and spices, slow-cooked in tomato sauce.
8. Tufahija - A dessert made with baked apples stuffed with walnuts and topped with whipped cream.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods you can enjoy in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists. The country's currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM), which has a favorable exchange rate for many major currencies. Accommodations, food, and transportation are typically less expensive than in Western Europe or North America, although prices can vary depending on the location and time of year. Generally speaking, budget travelers can find affordable options for lodging, dining, and activities throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: where to find accodation

There are several websites and platforms where you can search for accommodation options in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Here are some recommendations: 1. Booking.com - This is one of the most popular platforms for finding hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can filter your search based on location, price range, and amenities.
2. Airbnb - If you're looking for a more unique and personalized accommodation experience, Airbnb is a great option. You can find apartments, houses, and rooms for rent in various parts of the country.
3. Hostelworld - This platform specializes in budget-friendly options like hostels, dorm rooms, and backpacker lodges. You can search based on price, location, and rating.
4. Agoda - This website offers a wide range of options including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses. You can sort by price, review score, and location preference.
5. Expedia - This platform offers discounted package deals that include flights and accommodations. You can also book hotels or vacation rentals separately.
You can check hotel prices in Bosnia and Herzegovina here:
Booking.com

Bosnia and Herzegovina: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the data from the Institute for Statistics of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in 2019, the country received about 1.3 million tourists. The number of tourists has been steadily increasing over the past few years, and it's expected to continue to grow in the future.
There are periods that are usually more crowded than others. The summer months (June, July, and August) and the winter holidays (December and January) are the peak tourist seasons in Bosnia and Herzegovina. During these times, popular tourist destinations and attractions can get quite crowded. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, the best times to visit are during spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) when the weather is still pleasant, and there are fewer visitors.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally a safe country for tourists to visit. However, like any country, it is important to take necessary precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuables. There are also certain areas to be avoided, particularly those that were affected by the war in the 1990s. These areas, mainly in the eastern part of the country, are still littered with landmines and other unexploded ordnance, and it is essential to stay on marked paths when hiking or exploring.
Additionally, some neighborhoods in larger cities, such as Sarajevo and Mostar, may have higher crime rates, so it is important to exercise caution and stay in well-lit areas at night.
Overall, with proper precautions, Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: events for tourists

Some of the most interesting events for tourists in Bosnia and Herzegovina include: 1. Sarajevo Film Festival - an international film festival held annually in Sarajevo.
2. Mostar Summer Fest - a festival that celebrates music, theater, art, and literature in the city of Mostar.
3. Sarajevo Jazz Festival - a popular jazz festival that attracts musicians and jazz lovers from around the world.
4. Baščaršijske Noći - a cultural festival that showcases traditional Bosnian music, dance, and art in the streets of Old Town Sarajevo.
5. Sarajevo Winter Festival - a festival of music, theater, exhibitions, and other cultural events held during the winter months.
6. Jahorina Film Festival - an annual film festival held at the ski resort of Jahorina.
7. Blagaj Cultural Summer - a festival in the town of Blagaj that celebrates local culture and folklore.
8. International Theatre Festival MESS - an international theater festival held in Sarajevo.
These are just some of the most interesting events in Bosnia and Herzegovina. There are many other festivals and cultural events that take place throughout the year, so it's worth checking out the local events calendar while planning your trip.

Bosnia and Herzegovina: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Certainly! Here is a suggested two-week itinerary for Bosnia and Herzegovina that covers some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country: Day 1-2: Sarajevo - explore the old town, visit the Latin Bridge, and see the famous yellow fortress Day 3-4: Mostar - walk across the famous Old Bridge, explore the old town and the Muslim Quarter Day 5: Blagaj - visit the Dervish House and enjoy a traditional Bosnian lunch by the river Day 6-7: Konjic - visit the old Ottoman bridge, the Tito bunker, and enjoy scenic river rafting on the Neretva River Day 8-9: Jajce - explore the picturesque town, visit the waterfalls and the medieval fortress Day 10-11: Travnik - discover the Ottoman-era architecture and visit the ancient fortress and the colorful houses of Plava Voda Day 12-13: Bihac - visit the Una National Park, enjoy kayaking and swimming in the clean river Una Day 14: Depart Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion and there are many more places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina depending on your interests. Enjoy your trip!

Bosnia and Herzegovina: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Banja Luka is the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the northern part of the country. It has a population of around 200,000 people and is the administrative center of Republika... CONTINUE here for a trip to Banja Luka
- Bihac is a city located in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the border with Croatia. It is the fifth largest city in the Una-Sana Canton and is situated on the banks of the Una River, whi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bihac
- Bijeljina is a city located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to the border with Serbia. It is the fifth-largest city in the country, with a population of around 100,000 people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bijeljina
- Bileca is a small town in the eastern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located about 22 kilometers southeast of the city of Trebinje. The town is situated in a picturesque valley surrounded by hills ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bileca
- Brcko is a town located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located on the border with Croatia and Serbia and is situated on the banks of the Sava River. The town has a rich hist... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brcko
- Bugojno is a town and municipality located in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, about 100 kilometers northwest of Sarajevo. The town has a population of around 34,000 people and is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bugojno
- Capljina is a small city located in the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated in the western region of the country, close to the border with Croatia on the banks of the Neretva River. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Capljina
- Cazin is a small town located in the northwest part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the border with Croatia. It's situated in a valley surrounded by hills and mountains, and it's known for its natural... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cazin
- Drvar is a town located in western Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated on the banks of the Una river. It is known for its natural beauty and historical significance as a location of major battles during ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Drvar
- Fojnica is a small town located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is situated in the valley of the Fojnica River, surrounded by mountains and fore... CONTINUE here for a trip to Fojnica
- Gorazde is a city located in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled in the valley of the Drina River. It has a population of around 22,000 residents and is known for its rich history, cultural herita... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gorazde
- Gracanica is a small town located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, just a few kilometers away from the city of Tuzla. It is known for its beautiful medieval monastery, which is list... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gracanica
- Ilidza is a suburb of Sarajevo city located in the western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times, and it is known for its natural beauty and healing spring... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ilidza
- Jajce is a small town located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its beautiful waterfall and historic landmarks. It has a rich cultural and religious heritage with a mix of Ottoman, Austro-H... CONTINUE here for a trip to Jajce
- Kakanj is a town and municipality located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated on the banks of the Zgošća River and surrounded by mountains. Kakanj has a rich history, with evidence of hu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kakanj
- Kalesija is a small town located in the northeast region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is part of the Tuzla Canton and has a population of around 15,000 people. The town is situated on the banks of th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kalesija
- Konjic is a town located in the middle of Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated on the banks of the Neretva River. It is known for its beautiful nature, including nearby mountains, rivers and lakes. The to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Konjic
- Kupres is a town located in the high mountains of central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated at an altitude of 1,338 meters above sea level and surrounded by natural wonders, such as lakes, rivers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kupres
- Livno is a small town located in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It has a population of approximately 10,000 people and is known for its rich culture and history. Livno is surrounded by mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Livno
- Mostar is a city in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is located on the Neretva River and is known for its iconic Old Bridge (Stari Most), which was initially built in the 16th century a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mostar
- Neum is a small town and seaport located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the Adriatic Sea coast. It is the only coastal town in the country, surrounded by beautiful mountains and na... CONTINUE here for a trip to Neum
- Prijedor is a city located in the northwest part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is the administrative center of the Prijedor municipality and the Republika Srpska region. The city has a population of a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Prijedor
- Sanski Most is a town and municipality located in the northwestern region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is situated on the banks of the Sana River, and is surrounded by untouched nature and beautiful ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sanski Most
- Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the center of the country. It is a cultural and economic hub, known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and uniqu... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sarajevo
- Srebrenica is a town in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is most well known for the July 1995 massacre, during which more than 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were killed by Bosnian Se... CONTINUE here for a trip to Srebrenica
- Stolac is a small town located in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the borders with Croatia and Montenegro. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Blidinje Nature Park and the... CONTINUE here for a trip to Stolac
- Travnik is a town located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated on the banks of the river Lašva beneath the Vlašić mountain. It has a rich history, as it served as the capital city of the Ottoma... CONTINUE here for a trip to Travnik
- Trebinje is a beautiful city situated in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the border with Montenegro. It is the economic and cultural center of the region, known for its rich history,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Trebinje
- Tuzla is a city located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is the third-largest city in the country and serves as the administrative center of the Tuzla Canton. The city has a rich... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tuzla
- Visegrad is a town located in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the banks of the Drina River. It was founded in the 14th century and became an important cultural and trade center during t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Visegrad
- Vlasenica is a small town located in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, about 70 kilometers northeast of Sarajevo. It is situated in a beautiful mountainous landscape and is known for its rich cultural h... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vlasenica
- Zenica is a city in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located on the banks of the Bosna river. It is the fourth largest city in the country with a population of approximately 110,000 people.... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zenica
- Zepce is a small town located in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, situated on the banks of the Bosna river. It has a population of around 20,000 people and is known for its natural beauty a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zepce
- Zvornik is a town located in northeastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the border with Serbia. It is situated on the bank of the Drina River, which is the natural border between the two countries. Zvo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zvornik


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