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Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina features stunning landscapes and rich history. Explore Sarajevo’s diverse architecture, Mostar’s iconic bridge, and beautiful natural scenery. Its unique blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty makes it a fascinating destination.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
05. May, 06. June, 07. July, 08. August, 09. September
Vacation type
Couple, Family, Nature, Mountains, Hiking, Skiing
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€, 0-50€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Europe
Currency
Convertible mark
Languages
Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina is from April to October. During these months, the weather is generally mild to warm and suitable for exploring the country’s natural beauty and cultural sites.
- Spring (April to June): Offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Summer (July to August): Provides warm weather, perfect for exploring cities like Sarajevo and Mostar or enjoying outdoor adventures. However, it can get quite hot, particularly in the lowlands.
- Autumn (September to October): Features cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, with fewer tourists and more affordable travel options.
- Winter (November to March) can be cold and snowy, especially in mountainous areas, which is great for winter sports but less ideal for general sightseeing.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($40-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-15/day (street food, local eateries).
Activities: $5-15/day (historical sites, natural parks).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses, taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs, tips).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (mid-range hotels, Airbnbs).
Food: $15-30/day (local restaurants).
Activities: $15-40/day (tours, day trips).
Transportation: $10-20/day (local transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10/day (shopping, tips).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining, international cuisine).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive excursions).
Transportation: $20+/day (private taxis, rentals).
Other Costs: $20+/day (luxury shopping, spa treatments).
Off-Peak Season: October-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($30-60/day)
Accommodation: $10-20/night (budget stays).
Food: $5-10/day (street food, local food).
Activities: $5-10/day (indoor museums, city tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (minimal souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($60-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-50/night (mid-range accommodations).
Food: $10-20/day (restaurants).
Activities: $10-30/day (historical sites, cultural tours).
Transportation: $10-15/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (shopping).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $50+/night (luxury hotels, boutique stays).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, skiing in mountain resorts).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Sarajevo
- The capital city, known for its rich history and cultural diversity. Key attractions include the Baščaršija old bazaar, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.
2. Banja Luka
- The largest city in Republika Srpska, known for its vibrant cultural scene and historical sites. Attractions include the Banja Luka Fortress, the Christ the Savior Cathedral, and the beautiful green areas along the Vrbas River.
3. Mostar
- Famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), Mostar is a picturesque city with a mix of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture. Key sites include the Old Bazaar and the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque.
4. Tuzla
- Known for its salt lakes and historical significance, Tuzla is a growing city with attractions like the Pannonian Lakes and the Tuzla Salt Museum.
5. Zenica
- An important industrial city with a rich history, Zenica is known for its industrial heritage and cultural events. Key sites include the Zenica City Museum and the nearby natural attractions.
Sarajevo
Islands
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a landlocked country and does not have islands in the traditional sense.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Kravica Waterfalls
- These stunning waterfalls near Ljubuški are a must-see. The Kravica Waterfalls cascade into a beautiful turquoise pool, perfect for swimming and picnicking in a serene, natural setting.
2. Una National Park
- This park, located in the northwest of the country, is known for its crystal-clear rivers, picturesque waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The Štrbački Buk waterfall is particularly impressive and a popular spot for kayaking.
3. Vrelo Bosne
- Situated near Sarajevo, Vrelo Bosne is a spring that forms the source of the Bosna River. The area is a peaceful park with walking paths, horse-drawn carriages, and lush greenery, ideal for a relaxing day out.
4. Jahorina Mountain
- A top destination for winter sports, Jahorina Mountain offers excellent skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, it becomes a haven for hiking and mountain biking with its scenic trails.
5. Blidinje Nature Park
- Located in the Dinaric Alps, this park features diverse landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and bird-watching.
Cultural and Historical Sites
1. Stari Most (Old Bridge), Mostar
- This iconic 16th-century Ottoman bridge is a symbol of Bosnia's resilience and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The bridge spans the Neretva River, and the sight of local divers jumping from it into the river below is a thrilling experience.
2. Sarajevo Old Town (Baščaršija)
- The heart of Bosnia's capital, Sarajevo, is the Old Town, also known as Baščaršija. This area is rich with Ottoman-era architecture, bustling markets, and traditional Bosnian cafés, providing a deep cultural experience.
3. Pocitelj
- A historic village along the Neretva River, Pocitelj is known for its well-preserved medieval and Ottoman architecture. The village is dominated by a fortress, and its narrow streets are lined with stone houses and the 16th-century Hajji Alija Mosque.
4. Travnik
- Once the capital of Ottoman Bosnia, Travnik is home to the stunning Travnik Fortress, built in the 14th century. The town is also famous for its colorful mosques and Ottoman architecture, as well as the Blue Water spring.
5. Jajce
- Jajce is a picturesque town famous for its beautiful waterfall, where the Pliva River plunges 22 meters right in the heart of the town. The Jajce Fortress and medieval catacombs add to the town’s historical allure.
Kravica Waterfalls
How to get around
1. Trains
- The country has a limited rail network operated by Željeznice Federacije BiH and Željeznice Republike Srpske. Trains connect major cities like Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Zenica, though services might be less frequent compared to other countries.
2. Buses
- Buses are a popular and extensive way to travel between cities and towns. They offer both local and intercity services, with companies like Centrotrans and FlixBus providing regular routes.
3. Taxis
- Taxis are available in cities such as Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka. They are generally affordable but might not have meters, so it’s best to agree on the fare beforehand or use a ride-hailing app.
4. Ride-Hailing Apps
- Apps like Uber and Bolt are available in some major cities, such as Sarajevo, providing a convenient and often safer option compared to traditional taxis.
5. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a good option for exploring the country, especially if you plan to visit more remote areas or travel between cities. Driving is on the right side, and roads are generally in good condition, though rural roads might be less maintained.
6. Public Transportation in Cities
- In cities like Sarajevo and Mostar, you can use public buses and trams. Public transportation is affordable but might not be as frequent or reliable as in larger European cities.
7. Cycling and Walking
- In some urban areas, cycling and walking can be enjoyable, especially in city centers and along scenic routes.
For convenience and flexibility, renting a car or using ride-hailing apps are often preferred, while buses and trains are useful for longer distances.
What to eat
1. Ćevapi
- Grilled minced meat sausages, usually made from a mix of beef and lamb, served with somun (flatbread), onions, and ajvar (pepper relish).
2. Sogan-dolma
- Stuffed onions filled with a mixture of minced meat and rice, seasoned with spices and baked in a tomato sauce.
3. Burek
- A flaky pastry filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach, often served with yogurt. It's a popular snack or main dish in Bosnia.
4. Begova čorba
- A rich, thick stew made with slow-cooked meat (often veal) and vegetables, thickened with okra and served with a side of bread.
5. Tufahija
- A traditional dessert made of poached apples stuffed with walnuts, sugar, and cinnamon, typically topped with whipped cream.
Ćevapi
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Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airports: Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ), Tuzla International Airport (TZL), Mostar Airport (OMO)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €100 to €300.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer (June to August) and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $400 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: Late winter and autumn.
- Peak Prices: Summer months and December.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $1,200 to $2,000.
- Cheapest Months: February and November.
- Peak Prices: Summer and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,300.
- Cheapest Months: March and October.
- Peak Prices: Summer and Christmas.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Many travelers can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina visa-free, including citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and most EU countries.
2. Visa-Free Countries
- Citizens from several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Japan, can stay without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply at a Bosnian embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Commonly issued as tourist visas or business visas, usually valid for stays of up to 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take from a few days to a few weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance.
6. Duration of Stay
- Most visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are required for entry, but having travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). Credit cards are accepted in cities, but cash is advisable in rural areas.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in urban areas.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types C and F (two round pins) are used. An adapter may be needed for devices from other regions.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is customary, with 10% being standard for good service in restaurants.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like BH Telecom and m. They can be purchased at stores, offering various prepaid data plans.
6. Driving Side
- In Bosnia and Herzegovina, people drive on the right side of the road.