Last updated on July 30, 2023 by Shannon

Travel guide to Bosnia and Herzegovina

The Balkan States are not a region many mainstream travelers have on their bucket list of places to visit next. It’s still considered an offbeat region, although that is changing quickly. Croatia leaped onto the tourist radar over the past decade, and as tourism increases, many are discovering that neighboring Bosnia & Herzegovina is a destination in its own right.

I’ll fess up right now, I deeply loved my three weeks the country, and I consider it one of the most underrated places I’ve visited.  The country is stunning and the people are warm. Also, the country has waged a huge effort to overcome the atrocities of the 90s war, and they are a culture and people moving forward, but not forgetting.

stari most things to do bosnia
Mostar is worth more than a day trip. The iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar is one of the prettiest things to do in the country—it’s popular with tourists for a reason.

Bosnia is still flying under the radar for most travelers; Croatia and Montenegro are hotspots for their coastline, but Bosnia has a stunning mountain scenery and a culture unique to the region. For travelers, it makes a fascinating vacation—if not the easiest travel experience. English is not widely spoken throughout, not even in some of the touristy areas. If you visit with a sense of adventure and patience, you’ll find everyone friendly and willing to pantomime with you if that’s what it takes!

There’s a lot to do on a trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina. Rafting the country’s gorgeous rivers is hugely popular, as are winter sports too. The country has a stunning landscape—mountains, rivers, waterfalls—it’s easy to navigate on public transport, and the people are hospitable and welcoming to tourists.

Bosnia is a beautiful, offbeat place to explore and I highly recommend it. Consider socially responsible travel, and read on for more information you should know before you visit Bosnia & Herzegovina. Or jump straight to the city-level travel guides.


Things to Know Before Traveling to Bosnia & Herzegovina

Throughout the Bosnian War, many people were displaced to neighboring countries. Others left as refugees, never to return. And many lost their lives. Travelers should dive into the recommended readings and form a nuanced understanding of the region’s past, as well as how that has affected its current politics.

If you’re traveling to the Balkans, you should do a fair bit of contextual research before you go. Like many countries with a recent history of war, there is a delicate peace among the people. Consider this a quick overview, but I highly recommend you dive into the recommended readings below—many are easy to load onto your Kindle—so you have a nuanced understanding of the region’s past, as well as how that affects its current politics.

First settled by the Slavic peoples, around the 14th century Bosnia and Herzegovina became a province of the Ottoman Empire. It’s this influence that brought Islam to the region. Bosnia and Herzegovina stayed under Ottoman control until that influence began to wane throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. By the end of WWII, Bosnia and Herzegovina had become part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

Mosque on the Neretva River, Bosnia
A beautiful mosque on the Neretva River in Bosnia.
mostar, bosnia
I truly loved my wanders through Mostar, and the chance to admire Stari most a various times of day.

Bosnia and Herzegovina declared sovereignty and independence from the former Yugoslavia in 1991 and 1992. It’s this action that set off a chain of events that would shape the country’s next few years—the Bosnian War was a bloody civil strife focused around ethnic and religious differences. The Serbs resisted the declaration of independence, preferring to create a country divided along ethnic lines that aligned to neighboring Serbia and Croatia. Eventually, NATO—alongside internal and external forces—created a accord that ended with a Peace Treaty signed by all parties. But that peace took years and some might say is shaky.

Throughout the Bosnian War, many people were displaced to neighboring countries. Others left as refugees, never to return. And many lost their lives. The country’s capital experienced the longest siege of a capital city in history. Sarajevo was under siege for four years and the effects of that are still visible there, as well throughout other areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Modern-day Bosnia and Herzegovina has a diverse population, with independence uniting the country’s religious and ethnic groups. Roughly 45% are Muslim, 36% Orthodox, and 15% Catholic. With the past divisions in mind, it’s important to understand that there are two (and sometimes three) distinct regions that have united to act as one country and to function under one currency. And though unity in mid-90s brought peace to the region, there are still tensions and politics that are deeply embedded in the region’s history.

For travelers, understanding the 90s civil war is important. Even with that foundational history, however, it’s best to steer clear of discussing religion or politics, nor should you presume to refer to locals under one of the terms that denote ethnicity/religion/regional ties such as: Bosniak, Croat, and Serb. Bosnian is usually considered neutral to refer to anyone from the region and does not connote religious/ethnic ties. If you’d like more history, this is a quick and thorough timeline of the country’s historic events.

Fast Facts About Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel

Currency

Bosnian Convertible Marka (BAM) (current exchange rate)

Electricity in Bosnia

230V/50hz. European 2-pin (Type C  & Type E). Americans will need an adaptor.

Primary Airports

Sarajevo Airport (SJJ)

Is the water safe to drink in Bosnia?

Both safe and unsafe. Sarajevo has safe tap water and very strong food safety measures. Rural areas of the country are not safe.

Bring a reusable bottle and refill with safe water, or consider the merits of a SteriPen or LifeStraw for your trip.

Is there good wifi in Bosnia?

Internet has come a long way since my first visit in 2009. Internet is far more widespread than it once was, and pretty decent. Most hostels and many hotels will offer it complimentary.

This is a good list of free wifi spots in Sarajevo, and they have listings for all major cities if you’re in a pinch and need a connection. You can also hotspot yourself in a pinch and that works reliably.

Local SIM Card

Mobile data is available in most areas and is very affordable. BH Telecom is the best option for maximum chance of coverage throughout both Bosnia & Herzegovina.

You will find prepaid SIM kiosks; just buy one of these and top up for the amount of data/time that you need. There are both data + voice, and just data options; it’s explained more here with kiosk location information too.

Best Time to Visit Bosnia

May through September is the best time to enjoy Bosnia and Herzegovina. Winters are bitterly cold in the region, but summer is hot and sunny.

What’s the visa situation like?

North Americans and Europeans do not need a visa to visit Bosnia-Herzegovina for up to 90 days. Most of Central and South America is covered under that same policy.

Those outside of this region who hold a Schengen visa are admitted for 15 days. Check the latest visa requirements here.

Food Considerations

This region of the world is hard for vegetarian travelers. They are meat-heavy cultures and with so little English spoken, it can be hard to communicate dietary restrictions. But the fresh food at markets is easy to acquire. I always carried an apple in my bag to stave off hunger.

Plan on eating a lot of spinach and cheese bureks—they’re vegetarian and make a tasty lunch (especially with plain yogurt!). I wrote a bit about what it’s like to be a vegetarian traveler in Bosnia. You must learn “I’m vegetarian and I do not eat meat” in Bosnian. You will need it. Also, consider these food safety principles when picking where to eat.

Accommodation

Bosnia has a well-developed tourism infrastructure, despite relatively low levels of tourism. You can easily book pensions, B&Bs, and hostels online, or via phone if you’re driving around the country. Consider booking with locally-owned accommodation to ensure the money is staying within the communities.

In rural areas, look into eco-lodges and ethno villages—these ensure you have the lowest impact possible on the local environment. I stayed with locals in Sarajevo and it was such a wonderful way to see the city.

For backpackers, Booking.com is perfect for pre-booking hostels. And if you buy a local SIM card (which you should), you can easily call ahead and directly reserve spots en route. If none of these will do, check out my detailed guide to finding good places to stay

Festivals of Note

  • Street Art Festival in Mostar (Spring)
  • Sarajevan Winter (February/March)
  • Bascarsija Nights (July)
  • Jazzfest Sarajevo (November)

How much should you budget to travel in Bosnia?

This is a good budget destination, though not rock-bottom prices. The day-trippers from Croatia’s cruise ships jack up the prices a bit in Mostar. Generally, backpackers should plan on about $30 per day—this includes budget eating like bureks/cevapi and hostels throughout your stay.

Low-end hotels are also pretty nice, so for a bit more, you can easily upgrade. This page gives a good budget overview for various travel styles.

How to Travel Around Bosnia

The train system in Eastern Europe is extensive fantastic for getting into Bosnia. Because other countries are close, many travelers arrive in Zagreb and train into Sarajevo. Also, the bus system takes over nicely where the train doesn’t go.

Traveling Bosnia is not the cheapest travel in the world; neighboring countries are on the Euro and that has inflated the costs a bit. Buses will get you everywhere you need to go, but may take a bit of planning if you want to head anywhere but Sarajevo and Mostar as only a couple buses each day run to the smaller cities. Both major touristy cities, Mostar and Sarajevo, are quite walkable.

Is Bosnia Safe for Tourists?

Crime is low in Bosnia, and crimes against tourists are rare. That alone makes Bosnia among the safer destinations for travelers. Pickpocketing and petty theft in crowded areas and public transport are the biggest threats, which can be averted by using a crossbody travel purse. If you’re using a rental car to road trip around Bosnia, drive defensively and adhere to traffic rules. Mountainous regions may have narrow and winding roads, so drive carefully and be aware of other vehicles.

Landmines are still a major concern in isolated areas—they were used extensively during the 1990s conflict in Bosnia. Stay on marked trails and roads, and follow any warning signs that you encounter. If you’re driving the country, or hiking, be extremely cautious. Also, if you’re visiting smaller towns, carry enough cash to cover your stay in case the town doesn’t have an ATM.

Bosnia is an ideal solo travel destination as a result of its small cities and safe, easily navigable countryside. That said, anything can happen on the road. I am a firm advocate of broad-coverage travel insurance like IMG Global; these are my main tips for picking a good travel insurance.

Pigeon square and famous Sebilj fountain in Sarajevo, Bosnia
Pigeon Square and famous Sebilj fountain.
Entrance to the Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque.

Books About Bosnia & Herzegovina

Fiction & Nonfiction Books About Bosnia & Herzegovina

bosnia travel tips

This region’s war-torn past is recent; I highly recommend that you preface any trip with any of these recommended books and articles. There is a delicate nuance to even the most subtle language you use. Knowing the history and the culture smooths over awkward moments (like my first accidentally offensive moments in a cab in Bosnia!) and gives you a richer experience. Knowing the history is more important here. You may step on toes without even knowing it like I did.

  • Goodbye Sarajevo: I find memoirs a compelling way to learn about history, as well as its impact on the citizens living through that piece of a nation’s history. This true story is a beautiful piece that looks at how a set of siblings coped during the war, and how they reconnected to life and each other after the war ended.
  • Zlata’s Diary: A Child’s Life in Wartime Sarajevo: A riveting and heartbreaking look into how the outbreak of war changed the lives of the people living through it.
  • Balkan Ghosts: A Journey Through History: Fascinating travelogue and history of the Balkan region as the author delves into the roots of the Balkan conflicts and how they are manifested in the modern Balkan states.
  • Black Lamb and Grey Falcon: Beautiful and lyrical book that combines the author’s travelogue with a history of the region and insights from the region right as World War II began. A compelling way to read about Balkan history though it can be hard to distinguish fact from fiction throughout.
  • The Bridge on the Drina: The book is a vivid depiction of the suffering history has imposed upon the people of Bosnia from the late 16th century to the beginning of World War I. It has been hugely well received and will give political insights to the region and Balkan and Ottoman history.

Podcasts and Online Reads About Bosnia & Herzegovina

  • 14 Years a Fugitive: The Hunt for Ratko Mladić, the Butcher of Bosnia: A chronicle of how this Bosnian-Serb general—who is accused of killing thousands of civilians at Srebrenica and Sarajevo—evaded capture for so long.
  • Life in the Valley of Death: A sad and sobering long read about the man whose job it was to find the mass graves of those executed in during the war.
  • Bosnia Divided: A look at the soccer culture in the country and what the divided football culture says about the divisions that remain with the cultures living in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Read all my Bosnia & Herzegovina travel stories and find more regional fiction and nonfiction books and long-reads.

travel tip

Recommended Guidebook

Bradt makes great guides for offbeat destinations; consider the Bradt Bosnia & Herzegovina for a dense list of options that show a unique side to the country.

Hike near mostar things to do
Views of Stari Most and the river through Mostar from the hills above the town.
Stari Most mostar bosnia travel things to do
The UNESCO Stari Most bridge in Mostar, Bosnia.

Responsible Travel in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Bosnia & Herzegovina’s tourism scene is growing as neighboring countries take the spotlight. Travel to Croatia and Montenegro is on the rise, and Bosnia is seeing the benefits. While Bosnia-Herzegovina has little coastline like its neighbors, the country’s fast-flowing rivers and beautiful mountain ranges make for a wonderful nature holiday. As with any country, particularly those still developing strong tourism industries, it’s important to practice socially responsible travel. Consider these ideas when you’re traveling through the region.

Book Local and Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Bosnia-Herzegovina has a large network of locally-owned pensions and B&Bs. Additionally, once you leave the touristy cities and head into the surrounding nature, you’ll find ample opportunity to support the country’s eco-tourism efforts. Consider using eco-lodges and etno villages whenever possible.

These types of rural accommodations are designed to limit human impact on the environment and to preserve culture. The etno (also spelled ethno in some places) often include traditional building methods from the Balkan’s region, and they aim to recreate and educate about traditional village life.

Support Local Artisans

Buying your souvenirs from local craftsmen is a positive way to support traditional artisans techniques and handicrafts. It’s also an excellent way to experience the region, and to later remember that special part of the local culture. Consider learning about traditional winemaking at Lake Skadar, or discover Sarajevo’s copper-making history and traditions. Spending money with local businesses is one of the best ways to ensure your travels have a strong and last impact on the local economy.

Leave No Trace Behind

Many travelers visiting Bosnia & Herzegovina head to the mountains and into nature on their visit. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to limit your use of plastic water bottles—you can easily refill. And when hiking, skiing, or participating in outdoors activities, carry your trash back with you. You may even choose to bring a small bag on hikes and help clean up the local environment, as some areas have a fair bit of litter. And for women, use a menstrual cup for not only easy of travel, but it’s eco-friendly, too.

Consider these additional responsible travel tips to lessen your impact on the places you visit.

Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque in Sarajevo Bosnia travel guide
The Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque in Sarajevo.
Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque in Sarajevo wall
A decorative well outside of the mosque.

Best Things to Do in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Rafting or kayaking on the Una and Vrbas rivers are two top spots for this adventure activity, and many rate Neretva Canyon as well. There are so many incredible and offbeat things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is a great spot for adventurous travelers keen for unique hikes and untouched mountains, and also for cultural travelers who love walking through history and seeing its visible effects.

The city and regional travel guides below share the best things you can see and do, as well as where to eat and sleep.

My Favorite Things to Do Traveling in Bosnia

Don’t forget to book travel insurance for your trip—a great policy provides coverage in case of medical emergencies, lost or stolen gear, adventure sports riders, and more. I’ve used IMG Global for more than a decade highly recommend it!


Things to Do in Sarajevo

Sarajevo is the perfect size city for travelers. It’s the capital of Bosnia, and the biggest city in the country, but it’s still small. You can stand in the center of town and see the gently green rolling hills surrounding the city. I truly loved my time in Bosnia, perhaps even more because it’s not a tourist hot-spot. It’s a bit off the beaten path so you don’t queue for hours and it’s easy to strike up conversation with locals (at least, with those who speak English!).

You can easily use the transit system to explore the city. Just buy your bus tickets from the all-purpose magazine stands and shops—be warned the transit police will come on board regularly to check tickets. Plan many of your activities around food, this was my primary activity in the city. Find good spots to sample baklava, the traditional burek, and take the time for full tea, sugar, and Turkish Delight experience.

Explore the historic streets of Baščaršija.

Sarajevo’s Turkish quarter boasts weaving, cobblestone streets tiny shops selling fun souvenirs and postcards. Give the streets a wander for a couple hours—it will be a journey through time as you wander the narrow cobblestone streets of Baščaršija, the heart of Sarajevo’s old town. Lose yourself in the bustling marketplaces, where the aroma of traditional Bosnian dishes wafts through the air. Marvel at the beautifully preserved Ottoman-era architecture, adorned with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Visit the iconic Sebilj fountain, a symbol of the city.

burek in Bosnia is a staple snack
A slice of spinach and cheese burek.
Turkish quarter of Sarajevo
Wares for sale in the Turkish quarter of Sarajevo.

Eat a burek for lunch alongside locals.

Don’t miss the opportunity to taste mouthwatering cevapi, a local specialty of grilled minced meat served with fresh pita bread and creamy kaymak. Find a hole-in-the-wall burek restaurant for a delicious lunch amid the locals—this is where they head for lunch as well. Sit in the crowded little restaurants, sharing tables with the locals and the heat from the ovens permeating the space. The bureks and cevapi in these spots are worth it—as are the conversations!

Admire Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque and Bascarsija’s religious landmarks.

Find this Mosque, it’s gorgeous. You can explore Sarajevo’s religious heritage by visiting the grand Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, an architectural gem from the 16th century. Marvel at its impressive dome, intricate calligraphy, and beautiful interior adorned with colorful tiles. Take a moment for reflection in the peaceful courtyard. While in Bascarsija, make sure to also visit other religious landmarks such as the Orthodox Cathedral, Catholic Cathedral of Jesus’ Heart, and the Jewish Museum, highlighting the city’s religious diversity.

Delve into Sarajevo’s history at the Latin Bridge.

Stand on the historic Latin Bridge, where a pivotal event unfolded that changed the course of history. This bridge is famously associated with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in 1914, an event that triggered World War I.

Visit the nearby Museum of Sarajevo, housed in an elegant Austro-Hungarian building, and gain a deeper understanding of the city’s past through exhibitions that showcase its tumultuous history, from the Ottoman Empire to the Yugoslav era and the Bosnian War. It’s a profound opportunity to reflect on the resilience of Sarajevo’s inhabitants and the importance of preserving peace.

Hike the hills outside of Sarajevo.

The city sits flush into the surrounding hills, and there are beautiful landmarks in the distant hills. Climb the winding paths to reach the Yellow Fortress, perched atop a hill overlooking Sarajevo’s enchanting skyline. As you reach the summit, breathe in the fresh mountain air and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city’s red-roofed houses, majestic mosques, and surrounding mountains.

Take a moment to reflect on the scars of war that can still be seen in the hillsides, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people. Capture the picturesque vistas and immerse yourself in the serenity of this elevated vantage point. Ask your hotel or hostel for a good path out of town, and then set off with water and sturdy shoes. Even if you don’t make it to the right place, the hike is gorgeous, as are the views of Sarajevo.

Turkish tea set up in Sarajevo
A traditional Turkish tea set up, including sugar cubes and Turkish Delight.
panna cotta dessert Sarajevo
I had the best panna cotta of my life in Sarajevo.

Sip coffee and nibble sugar cubes.

Find a cozy cafe in Sarajevo’s old town and make it your spot for the days you’re in town. Bring a book, bring some friends, order traditional coffee. Then, drink the strong Bosnian coffee like a local by nibbling the sugar cube before each sip. It’s a lovely and delicious way to pass a couple of hours while observing the lively street life.

Pay tribute at the Sarajevo War Tunnel.

Visit the Sarajevo War Tunnel, a testament to the courage and resilience of Sarajevo’s residents during the Bosnian War. This underground passage, known as the Tunnel of Hope, provided a lifeline for the city during the siege from 1992 to 1995.

Explore a section of the tunnel that has been preserved and gain insight into the harrowing conditions faced by the people of Sarajevo. The accompanying museum displays artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations that offer a poignant narrative of the war’s impact on the city and its inhabitants.

Walk by the Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica).

Step into a masterpiece of architecture and cultural significance by visiting the Sarajevo City Hall, also known as Vijećnica. This majestic building, originally completed in 1896, showcases a blend of Moorish and Austro-Hungarian architectural styles. Admire the intricate detailing on the facade and step inside to marvel at the magnificent interior, including the breathtaking Sarajevo Haggadah exhibition.

The City Hall is not only a symbol of Sarajevo’s historical grandeur but also a testament to its resilience, as it was heavily damaged during the Bosnian War and meticulously restored to its former glory.

Stroll along the Miljacka River and Vrbanja Bridge.

Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Miljacka River, which flows through the heart of Sarajevo. Enjoy the picturesque scenery, charming bridges, and the sight of locals engaging in daily activities. One bridge that stands out is the Vrbanja Bridge, known for its symbolic “Sarajevo Roses.”

These are concrete scars filled with red resin, representing the spots where mortar shells struck during the war. They serve as both memorials and reminders of the city’s turbulent past, creating a poignant contrast against the river’s tranquil ambiance.

Sleep somewhere central.

Sarajevo is a small capital city compared to larger ones in Europe, but it’s still large enough that you should find somewhere central so that you can easily navigate to the top spots in the city. These are good options”

  • On a budget: Stay at the Residence Rooms. I’ve heard great things about this spot. Good wifi and they’ll help you arrange fun activities in the city. Right in the heart of where you want to be in Sarajevo. Good for a short stay in the city since it’s so close to everything!
  • For mid-range travelers: Consider Motel Mujanic for a midrange price, or Hotel Bristol Sarajevo is also a nice place from which to organize your search.

Things To Do in Mostar

Herzegovina - Stari Most Bridge sunset

Small and touristy, this lovely city in the south is flat-out charming. Hordes of cruise ship passengers from Dubrovnik, Croatia visit on a day trip most afternoons. Even so, it’s a wonderful spot. And doubly so if you’re staying in town for a week and you can visit the gorgeous waterfalls, towns, and scenic spots nearby.

A general recommendation is to steer clear of the touristy area in the mid-afternoon hours—use this time to head out on the recommended day trips. If you’re in town when the cruise shippers arrive, head to an outdoor cafe, sip a cool beverage, and engage in a favorite local pastime: people watching.

Explore the cobbled alleyways of Old Town. 

There aren’t a ton of particular activities in the area, but the town was recently war-torn and that is still incredibly evident in many of the buildings, and certainly the vibe. Explore the shops, buy souvenirs and strike up a conversation with anyone who speaks English (they can be few and far between!). Bosnia has an outdoor cafe culture, so that’s where you’ll find the locals too.

bomb damage war Mostar, Bosnia
The bombing damage is still visible in parts of Mostar, Bosnia

Visit the Stari Most bridge at various times of day.

Read up on the history of the bridge so you understand just why this is such a well-loved landmark for Bosnians. Kind of like the Taj Mahal, it looks totally different depending on the time of day, so plan to visit it several times!

Visit the Koski Mehmed Paša Mosque.

If the hike to the cross isn’t doable (explained below), consider the small entrance fee to this mosque as payment for the stunning views of Stari Most from the minaret.

Visit Blagaj Tekke (Dervish Monastery).

Just 12 kms outside of Mostar, this holy spot is popular with both pilgrims and tourists. It’s very pretty and I highly recommend it. You can get there by bus, car, or perhaps a day trip booked through your accommodation.

Day trip to the cool waters of Kravice Waterfalls.

\Wear your swimsuit under your clothes so you can take a tip in the pretty turquoise waters. It’s 40 kms outside of town, so it’s doable in a day and there is a cafe on site where you can grab lunch and coffee.

See the splendid views from Pocitelj.

Much of this town was destroyed during the war, but it’s in a gorgeous location and just 30 kms outside Mostar. It makes an easy day trip.

Hike to the Križ na Humu.

This is not a popular tourist hike, it’s not been set up for that, so be prepared to forge your own route. You’ll be a fair clip outside the tourist center, but it’s worth a half-day if you have time. From the streets of Mostar, the huge cross is visible on a nearby hill. From the cross, the views over Mostar are gorgeous. It also provides a unique angle on the Stari Most bridge, which was rebuilt after war damage and a sign of hope for the city.

Stay somewhere nice.

Mostar is a small town, so chances there are many great areas to stay in the city.

  • Budget: Hostel Miran: This is a small, clean hostel very convenient to the Old Town. They offer a range of tours to help explore the region on a budget, and the free breakfast is a bonus. If you’re on a tight budget this is a good spot. Guesthouse “Taso” was recommended by an A Little Adrift reader—it would also have all the amenities you need to enjoy your time in Mostar.
  • Midrange: Consider Hotel-Restaurant Kriva Cuprija or City Hotel for a nice place from which to organize your search.
Views of the cross above Mostar, Križ na Humu.
Views of Mostar from the Križ na Humu, including Stari Most.

Bosnia Beyond Mostar and Sarajevo

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a rich history and culture, and there are many things to see and do beyond Sarajevo and Mostar. Here are a few other ways that you can explore the nature and culture in other areas of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Explore Počitelj

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval city of Počitelj. Located in the Neretva River Valley, Počitelj is a small village located in the Neretva River Valley, about 30 kilometers southwest of Mostar. It is known for its well-preserved Old Town, which is built from stone and features a number of historic buildings, including a 16th-century Ottoman-style mosque. The village is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to see the Old Town and to explore the surrounding countryside.

Take in Nature at the Vrelo Bosne Nature Reserve

Take a trip to the Vrelo Bosne nature reserve, just outside of Sarajevo. The reserve is known for its hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnicking areas. It’s also home to a number of plant and animal species, including a number of rare and endangered species.

Brush Up on Roman History at Aquae Sulphurae

Aquae Sulphurae is the site of an ancient Roman city located in western Bosnia. The city was founded in the 2nd century AD and was known for its thermal baths, which were believed to have therapeutic properties. Today, visitors can see the remains of the baths and other ancient structures at the site.

Slow Down in Jajce

Jajce is a town located in central Bosnia, about halfway between Sarajevo and Banja Luka. It is known for its beautiful waterfall and its medieval castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the town. The castle is a popular tourist destination, with many visitors coming to see its well-preserved walls and towers.

Wander the Old Town Travnik

Travnik is a town located in central Bosnia, about 70 kilometers northwest of Sarajevo. It is known for its Ottoman-era architecture and its charming Old Town, which features a number of historic buildings and narrow, winding streets. Travnik is also home to a number of museums, including the Museum of Travnik, which is dedicated to the history of the town.

Hike in Sutjeska National Park

Sutjeska National Park is located in southern Bosnia, near the border with Montenegro. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery and its hiking trails, which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the park’s forests, mountains, and valleys. The park is home to a number of plant and animal species, including a number of rare and endangered species.

Essential Travel Planning Resources

Yes, you need travel insurance.
IMG Global is the travel insurance I’ve used for well over a decade of traveling solo, and with kids. Here’s why.

🧳 Smart packing can save your trip.
Shop my favorite travel gear, including all of the packing essentials for world travel, gear to keep you safe on the road, my favorite travel books, and more.

🛏️ Find great accommodation.
Booking.com is essentially the only hotel booking site that I use. It has a wide and affordable selection of traditional hotels, but also hostels and vacation rentals, too. Use these pro tips to find the best travel accommodation.

📍Navigate more effectively.
Rome2Rio is super handy to assess the full range of transport options between two cities—shows everything from flights to trains, buses, minibuses, and more. If you’re booking a rental car, I’ve always found the best deals on RentalCars.com.

✈️ Book affordable flights.
Expedia is one of the first places I look for low-cost flights.

Peruse all of my tips for round the world travel, or learn how to move and live abroad.


Bosnia Travel Guide: Stories from the Blog

Dive into all of my Bosnia & Herzegovina travel stories—each one written live on my travel blog as I traveled through the region I share detailed guides and stories about cultural quirks, fun activities, and things I enjoyed doing in every area.