Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Bosnia and Herzegovina Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Bosnia and Herzegovina – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM) £1 ≈ BAM 2.34 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in urban areas like Sarajevo, though cash is preferred in rural areas and for smaller purchases.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is common in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with 10% being the standard in restaurants. Taxi drivers and hotel staff also appreciate small tips. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in many public spaces, including parks and on some streets, though it is not common outside of designated drinking areas. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited indoors in most public spaces, including restaurants, public transport, and shops. |
| Statehood Day (November) |
Expect celebrations and national pride events, some business closures. |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day (January) |
Expect quiet celebrations and limited business activity. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 122 (Police), 124 (Ambulance), 123 (Fire) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Bolt |
| Other: | Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural sites, including the UNESCO-listed Old Bridge area of Mostar and the historic Old Town of Sarajevo. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Climate and season vary by region: Mostar and the south are Mediterranean and hot in summer, Sarajevo and the interior are best for sightseeing May to September and skiing December to March
Ski season at Jahorina and Bjelašnica usually December to March, depending on snowfall
Sarajevo Film Festival, mid August: city very busy and hotels book out
Don't miss
- 🌉 Watch divers leap from the Stari Most Bridge in Mostar
- ☕ Stroll Sarajevo’s old bazaar Baščaršija and taste local coffee
- 🏰 Explore the medieval Ottoman town of Počitelj by the river
- 💧 Visit the Blagaj Tekija monastery at the Buna spring
- 🌿 Hike through the lush hills of Sutjeska National Park
- 🕊️ Reflect at Sarajevo’s Tunnel of Hope War Museum
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Bosnia and Herzegovina's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity packed into a relatively small country. It boasts some of Europe's most impressive waterfalls, including Kravica and Jajce, alongside pristine natural areas like Sutjeska National Park with its ancient Perućica Forest. The cultural experience is enhanced by well-preserved Ottoman architecture, medieval monasteries and a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences visible in cities like Sarajevo and Mostar. What makes Bosnia particularly special is that these treasures remain relatively undiscovered by mass tourism, offering authentic experiences at affordable prices. However, travelers should be aware that the country still bears the scars of the 1990s civil war, with some areas containing unexploded ordnance and buildings showing war damage. The reconstruction process continues, though incredible progress has been made in restoring cultural heritage sites. Infrastructure can be challenging in more remote areas and some historical context is helpful to fully appreciate the complex cultural landscape.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Sarajevo
Historic crossroads of East and West, Sarajevo offers a blend of Ottoman architecture, Austro‑Hungarian influences and vibrant street life. The city’s cafes, markets and museums reflect its complex past while welcoming modern travelers and culture. -
2
Mostar
Historic bridge spans the Neretva River, connecting old and new town sections. Ottoman architecture, cobblestone streets and vibrant markets create a lively atmosphere. The city offers cultural festivals, local cuisine and scenic river views for visitors. -
3
Banja Luka
Known for its historic Ottoman architecture and vibrant cultural scene, this city offers a mix of medieval charm and modern amenities. Visitors can explore narrow streets lined with cafés, visit the iconic Old Bridge and enjoy local cuisine. -
4
Jajce
A historic town in central Bosnia, Jajce features a medieval fortress overlooking a canyon where the Pliva River splits into waterfalls and a lake. The old bridge, churches and preserved Ottoman architecture attract visitors seeking cultural depth and natural beauty. -
5
Travnik
A historic coastal town on Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Adriatic coast, Travnik offers a mix of Ottoman architecture, narrow streets and nearby natural parks. Visitors can explore its old bazaar, sample local cuisine and enjoy scenic mountain views. -
6
Medjugorje
Located in central Bosnia, Medjugorje is a pilgrimage center known for reported Marian apparitions since 1981. The town hosts large crowds of visitors seeking spiritual solace amid modest churches and surrounding rural landscapes and serenity.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
-
1
Kravica Waterfall
This stunning waterfall plunges into a deep gorge, drawing visitors to its turquoise pool. The surrounding forest offers serene trails and picnic spots, making it a peaceful escape from the bustling Dalmatian coast. -
2
Скакавац 1
-
3
Primeval Forest Perućica
-
4
Trebišnjica
-
5
waterfall
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Sarajevo Film Festival
-
Mostar Diving Competition
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Banja Luka Summer Games
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Sarajevo Winter Festival
-
Nevesinje Olympics
-
MESS Theater Festival
-
Baščaršija Nights
-
Jajce Days of AVNOJ
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Kozara Ethno Festival
-
Višegrad Bridge Festival
Popular travel destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Knowledge before you go
- Stick to marked paths. Landmines remain in rural areas.
- Use registered TA taxis with meters in cities; avoid unmarked cars and walking alone at night.
- Carry border car insurance at specific crossings like Bijaca or Zubci if your policy doesn't cover BiH.
- Visit Sarajevo's Tunnel of Hope and Mostar bridge early morning to avoid crowds and experience authentic history.
How to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina
Most international visitors arrive in Bosnia and Herzegovina through Sarajevo International Airport, with some flights also operating to Mostar, Banja Luka and Tuzla. The country is well-connected by bus to neighboring countries, with regular services from Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro. Trains connect from Zagreb and Belgrade, though bus connections are generally more frequent. For those driving, border crossings are straightforward, but check insurance requirements as some rental car companies may have restrictions on cross-border travel.
Access summary
- Sarajevo: Fly to Sarajevo Airport (SJJ) from major European hubs.
- Mostar: Seasonal flights to Mostar (OMO) or drive from Split/Dubrovnik.
- No major home carrier; foreign airlines like Turkish, Ryanair dominate routes.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina offers accommodations for every budget, from international hotel chains in major cities to family-run guesthouses in smaller towns and rural areas. Sarajevo and Mostar have the widest range of options, including boutique hotels in historic buildings. Mountain areas offer eco-lodges and hiking huts, while thermal spa regions feature wellness-focused accommodations. Prices are generally lower than in Western Europe, making it an affordable destination. During summer months, booking in advance is recommended for popular destinations.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Bosnia and Herzegovina
Getting around Bosnia and Herzegovina can be challenging but rewarding. Public transportation exists between major cities, with buses being the primary mode of intercity travel. Trains connect some destinations but are generally slower and less frequent. For exploring remote natural attractions and villages, renting a car provides the most flexibility, though be prepared for winding mountain roads and variable road conditions. Within cities like Sarajevo and Mostar, local buses, trams (in Sarajevo) and taxis provide affordable transportation options.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Bosnia and Herzegovina are around 55% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to BAM) is 3% better than in recent years. That means travelling now costs around the same compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise caution in remote areas where unexploded ordnance from the 1990s war may still exist. Stick to marked paths when hiking, especially near former conflict zones.
Health & Medical
Medical facilities are adequate in major cities but may be limited in rural areas. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. Pharmacies are widely available in towns and cities. No special vaccinations are required, but standard travel immunizations are advised.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies widely across Bosnia and Herzegovina. Major cities have made some improvements, but historical sites, cobblestone streets and mountainous terrain present significant challenges for mobility-impaired travelers. Few public buildings have proper accessibility features.
Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink in most urban areas, though many visitors prefer bottled water for taste. In remote rural areas, it's advisable to stick with bottled water, which is widely available and inexpensive.
Packing recommendations for Bosnia and Herzegovina
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🪰
Insect repellent
🩱
Swimwear
👛
Cash in small denominations
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for religious sites
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Translation app or phrasebook
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
for variable temperatures
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type C/F plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina
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