top 10 places to visit in bosnia

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15 Best Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Despite all those rugged mountains, the snow-caked heights of the Dinaric Alps, the beautiful Una River and towns like Mostar and Stolac where Ottoman and Byzantine, Roman and Balkan, Slavic and oodles of other styles all coalesce between the ancient streets, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains a somewhat off-the-beaten-track corner of Europe.

Check out this list of the country’s best places to visit , which flits from the wild hinterland to the buzzing, burgeoning capital along the way.

Bisected by the babbling Lasva River as it flows through the central mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the pretty mid-sized town of Travnik does well to balance its interesting past as the capital and stronghold of the erstwhile viziers of this old Ottoman sub-region and modern day adventure sports and outdoorsy draws.

The first aspect manifests in a curious array of traditional eastern-style edifices and monuments, two Ottoman clock towers (unique throughout the country) and a handsome 15th-century old town heart.

The second aspect makes its home on the slopes of Vlasic Mountain on the horizon, which is now one of Bosnia’s most celebrated skiing, Nordic walking and hiking destinations.

2. Jahorina

Home to the best-loved ski field in all of Bosnia and former host of the Winter Olympics, Jahorina draws snow lovers and summertime hikers alike to its high perch amidst the pine-spotted upper levels of the Dinaric Alps.

Of course it’s the lifts and pistes here that take centre stage for most travelers, with no fewer than 10 chairs and a planned gondola serving 30 kilometers of groomed alpine runs.

But Jahorina isn’t only for when the snow falls; not with the hunting lodges and pre-historic wonders of the Orlovaca cave system nearby, along with the pretty town of Pale beckoning from the valley below.

3. Sarajevo

A bustling, bubbling and surprising European capital that’s now heading full throttle into the modern age, Sarajevo has all but shed its former reputation as a ravaged war zone.

Memorials to the fallen and killed from the tumultuous conflicts of the 1990s do still fringe the city’s districts, but there’s certainly a newfound confidence and panache flowing through the central streets; one that embodies a real defiance for the atrocities of war.

Think striking mosques looming over al fresco beer bars, aromatic Turkic restaurants peppering enchanting bazaars, pretty city parks and arched stone bridges, all underpinned by modern art museums, jazz fests and more!

4. Trebinje

One of the real gems of the Republika Srpska side of Bosnia Herzegovina, Trebinje reflects beautifully against the waters of the winding Trebisnjica River as it cuts through the heart of the city’s historic centre; a medley of elegant Ottoman rises and original eastern facades that was constructed largely in the 18th century.

There’s also the pretty arched bridge of Arslanagic to see on the edge of town, along with a gorgeous Serbian Orthodox cathedral on the ridges above.

Travelers should also be sure to scale to the crumbling remnants of the Klobuk fortress on the hill, which offers sweeping views of the Trebisnjica River valley.

Hemmed in by the grass-green and craggy ridges of the Herzegovina Humina, Stolac is considered by many to be single most beautiful town in the country.

Amidst its enchanting old heart, the spot fuses layer after layer of unique architectural and cultural heritage, going from the crumbling remnants of Roman Diluntum that stood here in the 3rd century to the elegance of Austro-Hungarian Baroque.

Then there are the haunting tombstones of the Radimlja necropolis on the edge of the town to see, along with the pretty riparian stretches of the Bregava River, complete with clicking wooden watermills and real-stone bridges.

One of the undisputed jewels of the entire Balkan Peninsula, Mostar oozes Bosnian history from each of its Byzantine cracks, Slavic crevices and Ottoman facades.

The piece de resistance has to be the arched Old Bridge that spans the Neretva at the town’s heart, now meticulously reconstructed following destruction in the Croat–Bosniak conflict and a bearer of that coveted UNESCO tag.

And all around this masterpiece cast in stone, Mostar layers Dalmatian builds and Franciscan churches, oriental designs and arabesque mosques into one glorious aesthetic, while gold sellers continue to barter in the Old Bazaar and beer drinkers sip lagers in al fresco terraces by the riverside.

Indelibly green and bolstered by the roaring waterfalls that cascade through the urban bluffs at its heart, welcoming Jajce is one of the favoured gateways to the lakes and gorges of the pretty Bosanska Krajina region of the north.

Back in the town itself and travelers can discover a clutch of fascinating museums, like the AVNOJ that chronicles the resistance efforts of the Yugoslav partisans in World War Two, underground catacombs, charming Bosnian-style homes dressed in painted timber and – of course – the unmissable citadel that sprawls over the central hill – a remnant of the town’s medieval past.

Brcko can be found straddling the borderlands with Croatia to the north, planted on the edge of the Sava River and home to Bosnia’s only real port worthy of note.

While the town boasts a smattering of elegant Hapsburg edifices and an endearing blue-collar vibe, the real reason it’s worth a visit is because of its unique position as the country’s only self-governing city, where the various factions that only decades before now were embroiled in the Croat–Bosniak-Serb conflicts mix and forge their own unique enclave and personality on the edge of BiH Federation and the Republika Srpska alike.

9. Banja Luka

Razed and razed again by both earthquake and war, Banja Luka – the largely unknown capital of the Republika Srpska region of Bosnia and Herzegovina – retains little of the historic Ottoman and Slavic richness it once exuded, save a few reconstructed gems like the Cathedral of Saint Bonaventure and rebuilt, erstwhile-UNESCO Ferhat-Pasha Mosque.

However it’s not for the sights that people head to this 200,000-strong city in the wooded Vrbas River valley.

No sir, they come to sip beers and get loose to the sounds of the region’s famous thumping electro-folk, sample Trappist wines in the Pivara Banjaluka monastery (the only of its kind in the Balkans) and hit the hiking trails of the mountains on the horizon.

10. Kravice Falls

A truly photogenic wonder of Bosnia’s backcountry, the Kravice Falls cascade in countless streams over the verdant ridges south of Mostar.

More than 25 meters high, the cataracts here attract swimmers and strollers during the summer months, while others will come to simply gawp as the mist rises from the freezing plunge pools and roaring Trebizat River (daring types may also want to try their hand at the on-site rope swing that can be seen depositing fearless locals into the waters).

Kravice is best accessed from nearby Ljubuski, while others will rent a car out of Mostar and drive down through the dense fir forests.

11. Una National Park

Shrouded in beautiful swathes of virgin forest, the Una National Park is one of the more recent additions to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s line-up of outdoorsy gems.

It makes its home amidst the wild hills that roll down from the Dinaric Alps on the cusp of Croatia, protecting great stretches of riparian woodland and the channels of the Una and Unac Rivers.

Visitors who make their way here can look forward to the striking waterfalls at Martin Brod, interesting sights like the soaring Ostrovica Fortress and the newly-reconstructed Rmanj Monastery, complete with its reworking of the Serbian Orthodox style.

While Tuzla might not immediately seem like the best place to while away your Bosnian days and its place smack bang in the industrial heartland of the nation might not seem attractive from the get go, this colourful and confident town is actually a great place to feel the pulse of the real, raw BiH.

Travelers can delve into a clean and well-pruned old town that comes complete with soaring minarets and stone-clad squares, sunbathe on the edge of curious salt lakes (a remnant of the ancient Pannonian Sea), and experience the country’s most prestigious literary festival with the onset of the Mesa Selimovic event in July.

An endearing little town that sits draped between the ridges of the verdant Una Valley, Bihac comes shrouded in blooming coniferous shades of green and the rugged hills of the Bosanska Krajina.

At the town’s centre stands a square-cut medievalist keep and its concomitant church tower, while a series of pop-up islands beset by the turquoise-green channels of the Una itself make for some seriously good urban park strolling.

There’s also a pretty new town square to wander through, complete with babbling fountain installations, along with an interesting arabesque Ottoman tomb to boot.

A real must on any Bosnian bucket list, Blagaj sits nestled in the depths of a rugged gorge of the Mostar Basin, right on the spot that the Buna River bursts into existence from the subterranean depths below.

In fact, the town’s most-visited site sits neatly on the edge of the Buna’s source, rising in beautiful Ottoman styles to form the great Sufi lodge of the Tekija.

But that’s not all the town can offer, there’s elegant Ottoman mansions besides, along with a series of fascinating arched bridges in the Byzantine style and earthy homestays with timber terraces and cosy rooms aplenty.

15. Blidinje Nature Park

This wide plateau that connects the Cvrsnica and Vran peaks in the south-western edge of Bosnia and Herzegovina remains one of the nation’s less-trodden and off-the-beaten-track natural gems.

It’s famed for the colossal trunks of its endemic Bosnian pine trees, while it also boasts thick forests where white-bark evergreens shroud a flower-peppered woodland floor. The whole area is also peppered with elaborately carved medieval stele that hearken back to the Orthodox traditions of pre-Ottoman Bosnia.

Blidinje comes complete with a web of marked hiking trails that make it a great option for walkers and outdoorsy types.

15 Best Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• Kravice Falls
• Una National Park
• Blidinje Nature Park

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17 best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most underrated countries in Europe.

Hidden in the shadow of more popular neighbors, especially Croatia and Montenegro , Bosnia and Herzegovina also has a lot to offer and is worth your time and effort to get there.

While the majority of tourists go to Sarajevo and Mostar only you will find so many other interesting cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

I put together for you the list of best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina that will hopefully inspire you to travel to this amazing country.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is like a drug to me.

From the very first visit I fell in love with the country and I keep returning there on every occasion, sometimes even a few times per year.

While I mostly spend my time in Sarajevo I’m always on a hunt for new things to see in Bosnia.

I was lucky to explore Bosnia a bit but there are still few places I have to go to – that’s why I asked fellow bloggers and travelers for help so I could create the most comprehensive list for you (and I’m sure some places are still missing here).

Planning a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

• Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
• Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Get insured for your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Is it safe to travel to Bosnia?

But before I tell you about what to visit in Bosnia let’s start with the most important thing – safety.

As we all know Bosnia and Herzegovina was in the very center of the cruel Yugoslav War in the 1990s and made it to the news around the world often at that time.

Learning about Sarajevo history only is heartbreaking but the whole country was a scene of the tragic events.

That said the war has ended over 20 years ago and, even if you can still see numerous remnants around, Bosnia safety is not an issue for travelers anymore.

Getting around and sightseeing, especially in the most popular locations, is just fine. Use your common sense and remember about the normal precautions and you will be good.

Well, I should mention my passport was stolen from my backpack in the old town in Sarajevo but I don’t blame the city for it as this could have happened just about everywhere…

There is just one thing that you should be cautious about when visiting Bosnia – landmines from the wartime.

The clearing is underway but there are still few thousands of mines located all over the country, most often in the remote areas.

So keep in mind that wandering freely in the forest or field is not always the best idea in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Even mountains around Sarajevo are not the safest area but going to the well-known places like the abandoned bobsled track is all good.

Best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

But let’s leave serious things behind and talk about best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, shall we?

The capital of the country and one of the most fascinating cities in Europe – Sarajevo is a must when you visit Bosnia and Herzegovina!

This is literally where East meets West and a distinctive sign on the street tells you exactly when that happens.

Within a few minutes’ walk you can find the Catholic cathedral, the Orthodox cathedral, the mosque, and the synagogue.

For such a low-key city Sarajevo has been in the center of the turbulent history too many times: that’s where the World War First started, that’s where 1984 Winter Olympic Games took place, that’s where the longest siege in the modern history took place.

You can see the remnants of these events spread all over the city.

For me Sarajevo is the city of sunsets – they are the most stunning here and the amazing location, in the narrow and long valley with surrounding mountains around, helps to admire the colors in the sky.

Click on the posts below to read more about Sarajevo:

• Where to stay in Sarajevo – best Sarajevo accommodation
• My favorite things to do in Sarajevo
• The most tragic city in Europe – Sarajevo history
• Sarajevo street art in pictures
• Multicultural Sarajevo
• Alternative Sarajevo guide

Technically it’s a suburb of Sarajevo where you can get easily by tram.

Ilidza is known for being a spa and for its charming park with recreational area and spring of River Bosna.

To get there you have to cross a long alley lined with trees that is closed for vehicles and only every now and then a carriage from the Austria-Hungary times passes by (if you don’t feel like walking you can take the carriage for the ride, the price should be around 10 marks).

In Ilidza you will also find old, fancy hotels from the turn of the 19th and 20th century – in one of them the Archduke Franz Ferdinand spent his last night before being assassinated on 28th July 1914 (this event is known as the beginning of World War I).

Mostar is a legend and probably the best-known city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Most of us have seen the pictures of the Ottoman old bridge hanging above the turquoise waters of the Neretva river.

Sadly Mostar was also a scene of the cruel war and the famous bridge, built in the 16th century, was destroyed on 9th November 1993.

The Old Bridge and its beautiful surroundings made it to the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2005.

The best place to admire the area is from the minaret of Koskin-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque – climbing up can be a bit thrilling but it’s worth the view!

Mostar is more than just the Old Bridge so be sure to see also other parts of the city, especially the Sniper’s Tower and the park with the statue of Bruce Lee!

While the majority of tourists visit Mostar as one of Dubrovnik day trips it is worth to spend here much more time!

Located not far from Mostar, Blagaj is known for the spring of Buna river (that goes directly from the rocks) and the Dervish monastery built in 1520.

Both of these are located next to each other, creating a very photogenic spot, especially when you stand across the river from the monastery.

While you’re there it’s possible to visit the Dervish house inside too to admire well preserved Ottoman and Dervish remnants and see the place from another perspective.

It’s actually easy to miss Pocitelj when driving to/from Mostar – the town is glued to the hill and the stone buildings might disappear in the lush green vegetation.

The peak of the prosperity for Pocitelj came between the 16th and 18th century and you can find remnants of the medieval and Ottoman architecture here.

It feels like the time has stopped in this fortified town, if you’re lucky you can have the place mostly to yourself and that’s the best way to fall in love with Pocitelj.

For such a small town there are surprisingly many sights to see: houses, mosque and the ruins of the fortress. From the last one you can admire views of Pocitelj and the surrounding area.

Kravica Waterfall

This is one of the most beautiful natural landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Located close to the border with Croatia and not far from Mostar, Kravica Waterfall is a popular attraction and a summer getaway for both tourists and locals.

As soon as you will see the place you will understand why – the area is just stunning!

In the summertime, Kravica is a busy spot but it can be a blessing in the hot day.

You can easily spend here a few solid hours: swimming, relaxing and just enjoying the place.

There are bars and restaurants on the spot so you don’t need to worry about such trivial things.

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A little gem located not far from Dubrovnik , Trebinje is such a pleasant city to visit.

With the population of a bit over 30.000, no one is in hurry here and you can spend an enjoyable time just wandering around the old town with the Ottoman architecture or relaxing in one of the cafes in the shadow of plane trees Trebinje is known for.

For the best view of the town head to the Nova Gracanica monastery (copy of the monastery with the same name from Kosovo ) – it’s located on the hill that offers a beautiful panorama of Trebinje and surroundings.

Located in the very center of the country Travnik is a surprisingly pleasant city, worth spending at least a day in.

Dating to the beginning of AD, the times of the prosperity in Travnik happened between the end of the 17th century and mid-19th century when the town was the capital of the governors of Bosnia.

Today you can visit the impressive fortress offering an amazing view of the city and surroundings as well as admire numerous buildings from the Ottoman times.

Travnik is the only city in Bosnia and Herzegovina with two clock towers, it is also known for the colorful mosque that is among the most unique ones in the country.

It is also said that the best cevapi in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be found in Travnik – I’m a vegetarian so I can’t confirm it but the smell of the grilled meat was present all over the center.

I spent two days in Travnik and enjoyed them a lot – it was such a perfect place to slow down and just enjoy the place.

Not far from Travnik you can find Jajce – another picturesque, laid-back town.

The center is surrounded by walls, with the citadel built high above. It’s worth to climb there to admire the beautiful view of the town and the surrounding area.

While I preferred Travnik, I enjoyed Jajce too. It was so calm and quiet, such a pleasant destination.

Don’t miss the little waterfall just below the town’s center too – it’s best seen from across the river.

Technically I didn’t visit the city (even if I really wanted to but the public transport connections are really poor) but I did saw its biggest attraction – the Ottoman bridge over the Drina river.

This UNESCO listed site is famous thanks to the Nobel prize winner – Ivo Andric – and his bestseller book “The Bridge on the Drina”.

The famous bridge is indeed spectacular but there is more to see in Visegrad. The town has a stunning location, surrounded by lush hills.

Visegrad is also home to Andricgrad – an artificial town dedicated to Ivo Andric and created by the famous movie director Emir Kusturica .

Una National Park

Una National Park is the youngest of the three national parks in Bosnia-Herzegovina. Established in 2008, the park has plenty to see and do, and it’s one of the country’s leading natural attractions.

A region characterized by clear rivers, ancient forests and karst formations, Una National Park, boasts a tremendous variety of wildlife.

In addition to all this natural wealth, there’s also a fascinating cultural-historical side to Una National Park from archaeological sites to religious buildings.

One great spot in the park is Martin Brod, located at the confluence of the Una and Unac Rivers. The name of the area means ‘Marta’s Boat.’

According to a local tale, the area is named after a young girl, who fell in love with a curly-haired man who lived on the opposite side of the river.

Marta’s disapproving parents refused their love, and one day when Marta was sneaking across the river to meet him, she tragically drowned while crossing the river to reach her lover.

But the key must-see sight in the park its the Štrbački Buk Waterfall.

Štrbački Buk, a collection of spectacular waterfalls and cascades which is the place to be for all photographers as it’s the tallest waterfall you can access in the national park.

Contributed by SJ from Chasing the Donkey

Tara Canyon

One of the longest and deepest canyons in the world, the Tara Canyon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must see destination for outdoor lovers. The final sections of the canyon form the border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro .

Due to the canyon’s location and depth, the best way to experience the canyon is from the water, on the Tara River.

The Tara River cuts through the canyon and is a popular destination for white water rafting in the summer months.

With crystal clear blue water, dense forest to the water’s edge, sheer cliffs and waterfalls to see along the way, hopping in a raft to float down the river is a rewarding and memorable experience.

There are a number of rafting companies with accommodation set up on both sides of the border alongside the river.

The rafting season runs from April till October, with the highest water flows between April and June for extreme adventure seekers.

The best time for families is between July and September when the lower water levels offer a gentler trip down the river.

Contributed by Rachel from Adventure and Sunshine

The sleepy town of Stolac can be found on the road from Mostar to Montenegro and Dubrovnik on the banks of the Begrava River in Bosnia (BiH).

Right in the centre of town is Čaršija Mosque with it’s captivating full frontage mural. The mosque, along with most of Stolac’s historical buildings, was destroyed in the fighting of 1993.

It has been painstakingly and beautifully rebuilt from original material.

Take a pretty upstream riverside walk to Ćuprija Mosque and the cute stone Inat Ćuprija bridge with it’s three stone mill-races.

Downstream from Čaršija Mosque a switchback track leads up to the ruined Vidoška Fortress and great views.

The Mostar road passes through the striking Radimlja Necropolis, 3km west of Stolac. Make time to look at the 110 grave markers. They are an unforgettable sight.

6.5km west of town, Badanj Cave has paleolithichorse drawings dated as 16,000 BC.

Don’t be fooled by the small size of the site as this is one of few similar sites in the whole of Europe and by the way, a good spot for a BYO picnic.

War is never far from the surface in BiH and 33.2 km from Stolac on the road to Ljubinje is a stark reminder in the bombed out village of Žegulga.

Contributed by Jan from Budget Travel Talk

Less than 40 years ago, Medjugorje was just a tiny village with a small Croat population in the Herzegovina region.

But in 1981, six children playing on a hill saw an apparition of the Virgin Mary and now Medjugorje is a city catering to 1,000’s of Catholic pilgrims a year.

The Catholic Church hasn’t accepted Medjugorje as a sacred site and the Pope has not visited, but Popes have sent envoys to visit and it certainly doesn’t stop the pilgrims from coming.

At the center of town is the large church with seating for 100’s. The church also has outdoor seating and confession booths in multiple European languages.

In the garden behind the church are statues and mosaic grottos.

The most famous statue is the “Statue of the Risen Christ”. This bronze statue attracts pilgrims because it has been “crying” for some time.

First, a liquid started dripping from his knee. On my recent visit, there were infrequent drips coming from the left hip of Jesus, with pilgrims trying to catch them in a napkin.

The energetic can hike up Apparition Hill, where there have been multiple visions of Mary after the original discovery by the children.

Dozens of gift shops in town sell any sort of relic you want from rosary crosses to life size Virgin Mary statues.

Even if you are not Catholic, Medjugorje makes an interesting stop on a Herzegovina itinerary.

Contributed by Lisa from The Hotflashpacker

For a visit to a place in which time stands still, Lukomir should be on your list.

Situated high above the tree line in the mountains above the Olympic ski jump venue outside of Sarajevo, Lukomir is so remote that the Serbs deemed it of no strategic value during the 1990s war. As such, it is an intact time capsule.

Home to semi-nomadic Muslim herders, the village’s buildings are low-slung with steep pitched roofs to accommodate the region’s heavy snowfall.

Most of the residents relocate during winter to the city, but during the summer when you visit, life goes on in the way it has for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

It’s best to visit Lukomir with an organized tour, as the access is rugged. Click here for more details.

Don’t miss the ancient medieval stecci gravestones in the cemetery at the edge of town.

You’ll also want to climb the ridges and perhaps hike the cliffside trail for incredible, high-altitude viewing of the Rakitnica Canyon, part of the Dinaric Alpine range.

Locals will want to invite you in for a coffee, or to view their hand-crafted knitted goods.

There is a small “restaurant” in the village where you can enjoy a taste of local burek served with a fresh, liquid yogurt drink.

Overnight stays can be arranged as well, in a comfortable communal building with basic amenities.

Contributed by Betsy from PassingThru

Located about halfway between Mostar and Sarajevo, Konjic is a pretty little town most tourists haven’t heard of. But that doesn’t mean you should skip it!

Konjic is most known for being the location of Tito’s bunker.

During the 1950s, Josip Tito, the ruler of Yugoslavia, had an impressive underground bunker built as an escape in case of nuclear attack.

The idea was that he and some of the elite could hide out down there and survive the aftermath, if such a crisis occurred.

Today you can take a tour to see it just on the outskirts of Konjic.

If you’re more into outdoor activities, you can find several rafting tours in Konjic along the Neretva River, as well as hiking trails and waterfalls.

The town itself is cute and calm.

You could easily enjoy a few hours wandering through the local fresh market to buy some local produce, strolling along the river and admiring the old bridge, and relaxing at a cafe with a pretty view of the town.

Contributed by Ali from Ali’s Adventures

A few years ago the military airport in Tuzla opened up to Europe’s budget airlines making it possible to start or end your trip in Bosnia in the small town of Tuzla.

It is only 3 hours away from Sarajevo, but it is a destination in its own right that is worth to visit for a day or two.

Tuzla is one of Bosnia’s most multicultural cities and the third largest in the country.

It is famous for its salt lakes and one of them is in the center of the city offering a great place to swim in summer.

The old town is small, but beautiful and a great place to wander through the colorful streets and visit one of the mosques.

Few foreign tourists decide to stay in Tuzla and therefore it feels like a hidden gem. Your visit will be a very local experience.

There are plenty of popular restaurants to try Bosnian food and people are very friendly.

If you prefer off the beaten path places, Tuzla will be a very worthwhile city to explore.

Contributed by Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Traveling to Bosnia – practical information

How to get to bosnia and herzegovina.

Unfortunately getting to Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t the easiest but also not impossible.

There are four international airports: Sarajevo (served by traditional airlines as well as Wizzair flights from Budapest ), Tuzla (with Wizzair flights from numerous destinations), Mostar and Banja Luka (with Ryanair flights from Belgium, Germany and Sweden).

Of course the best would be to fly to Sarajevo as the airport is well connected with the city and from the capital you can get to most of the places in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

If you happen to book a flight to Tuzla keep in mind that sometimes getting out of the airport is more expensive than the plane ticket itself – no matter if you opt for the transfer directly to Sarajevo or to the city of Tuzla.

Bosnia and Herzegovina is neighbors with Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro and there are some decent international bus connections from all these countries.

When searching for buses to Sarajevo you might look for Istocno Sarajevo too – the east part of the city that is already in Republika Srpska (Serbian Republic -that is part of Bosnia and Herzegovina), the bus station there serves most of the connections from Serbia and Montenegro.

Currently there are no international train connections to/from Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Getting around Bosnia and Herzegovina

The best way to get around Bosnia and Herzegovina is by car really so if you can – rent a car and drive around. This way you can really see a lot!

If, like me, you need to rely on public transport then in most of the cases buses will be your default mode of transportation.

There is at least one connection per day between main cities, the buses aren’t the newest one but they are fine enough and the journey, even when it lasts few hours, is comfortable enough to survive.

There is only one issue with travelling around Bosnia and Herzegovina by bus.

As you probably know the country is divided into Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbian Republic and the connections between these two parts are almost no-existent.

Even if it’s not too far away you can’t really go for a day trip from Sarajevo to Visegrad or Trebinje, you need to plan everything carefully.

If you plan to go from Sarajevo to Mostar or the opposite direction you should take the train. This is one of the most scenic railway journeys in Europe. This is actually the only train connection you should consider in Bosnia and Herzegovina – the railway network is very poor and the trains, except this one, are rather slow and old.

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina expensive?

To give you a quick answer – no, it is not.

The local currency is Bosnian mark, 1 Euro is 1,955 BAM.

You can easily take money from ATM, there are plenty of them around. Just be careful as some of the ATM might charge you a fee.

Some of the example prices:

• Sarajevo – Mostar bus ticket: 20 BAM
• Cevapi for lunch: under 10 BAM
• Croissant in the bakery: 1 BAM
• Burek in the bakery: 2 BAM
• Small bottle of Coca-Cola: 1 BAM
• Big bottle of water: under 1 BAM
• Cable car in Sarajevo: 20 BAM for the return ticket
• Tram ticket in Sarajevo: 1,60 BAM
• Bottle of local beer: 1 BAM

Best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina

I would personally plan my Bosnia trip for early/late summer, like June or September.

The popular destinations are less crowded (although it seems like there are always tourists in Mostar) and, what’s most important, summer in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be really hot and dry. Visiting Bosnia at that time can be a real challenge.

If you can travel to Bosnia off-season then do it.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Bosnia and Herzegovina here.
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• If you don’t want to miss new posts and news from me click here to sign to my newsletter! You can also follow me on Bloglovin!
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. If you like what you are reading and seeing here and would like to support me and my blog please consider using those links. It would be like getting me a virtual drink that you don’t have to pay for! Thanks!

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50 Comments

I read your post and it is so interesting and inspiring. Thanks!!

I like the aspect of nature and the calm taht i see through your pictures and writing. Would love to be there one day.

Best wishes,

Thank you for your comment Nandih. I hope you will travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina one day! Happy travels!

This is such a great post! I’m sure it’ll inspire many people to visit this beautiful country! BiH is one of the most interesting countries I’ve ever visited. I’ve been to all the places in Herzegovina, and they’re all amazing, you seriously can’t go wrong! Una has been on my radar for a while, hopefully I’ll be able to visit soon.

Thank you for your kind words, Coni! I’ve been hoping to visit Una for a while too and I hope I will make it there soon as well. Happy travels!

Hello from the US. This is a very timely blog from you. I April I am start a 10 week to Southern Italy (Puglia) and to most of the Balkan countries. I am most like much older than you and over the years I have experienced around 110 +/- countries and done 3 around the world trips. I am so great ful to have experienced so many wonderful and diverse cultures. I have found so many common blessings and problems that we all share.

Your travels sound amazing! I hope you will enjoy Puglia and the Balkans, these are some amazing places really. Have a great trip!

Beautifull list of places in Bosnia&Hercegovina. And yet, there are many more nice towns in this country. I have been to Gradačac, Tešanj, Derventa and Gradiška. Not much to see, but still am glad I was there. I am surprised that there is no Banja Luka in top 15 places, though. I live in Croatia, but I still haven’t seen much of BiH. I hope to change it soon.

I know that Banja Luka is most likely interesting to visit but neither I nor any bloggers I know have been there and I didn’t want to just copy Wikipedia here, that’s not the point. But I’m planning to visit Banja Luka soon, as well as Bihac so as soon as I go I will update the post :)

Thanks kami for sharing useful information. Great help for traveller.

I’m glad you liked it!

Thank you Kami, much appreciated, your honest insights are a delight to read.

Thank you Brenda for your kind comment, I’m glad you enjoyed the post!

Hello kami, Nice and well explained post, am planning trip to Slovenia, Croatia and bosnia. could you help me out with itinerary for these 3 countries and how do i get around. planning in 1st week of June Cheers

I’m traveling at the moment and can’t help you but you should join my Facebook group (link in the sidebar on the right side) and ask there, I’m sure members will be able to help you with planning. Have a great trip!

I also explored your shared all these fabulous places in my these tours and have a joyful time with my family and friends.

I’m glad you enjoyed Bosnia and Herzegovina too. All the best!

There are FOUR airports in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You’ve mentioned Sarajevo, Banja Luka and Tuzla, but there’s an airport in Mostar too. It’s used less though, but German airline, Eurowings, provides flights between Mostar and Stuttgart, and Mostar and Düsseldorf in July and August, as well as a Croatian Airlines flight Mostar-Zagreb which could be relevant, if you want to fly to Mostar via Zagreb.

Ah yes, you are right, I was reading about the Germanwings flights recently. I will make a correction in the article, thank you for pointing this out

Hello, Thank you for this amazing post. There are some place that I did’t know about it. I’m from Bosnia but because of the war I don’t live there anymore. My family is from Prijedor but when we go to Bosnia we stay in Sanski Most. I like this city a lot. You can see Bliha Waterfall, Dabarska Cave and a huge mosquee. It’s also very dynamic during the night.

There are still many places I’d love to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Sanski Most is one of them. Hopefully I will make it there during one of the future trips. Thank you for the recommendation!

Sanski Most was a cute town but now the people have left Bosnia. The above mentioned natural sights are still amazing.

I hope to visit Sanski Most one day too. There are still so many places I would like to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina!

Great piece! Very informative, and a lot of places i should’ve visited it seems hehe Next time hopefully! Btw Banja Luka Is not in the list, and i have to say the most fun I’ve had and the best food I’ve tried was in that city. Just beautiful for sightseeing and relaxing next to the river (forgot the name). Suggest you visit next time!

I heard such mixed opinions about Banja Luka but I’ve been planning to visit it anyway this year to see how it really is but 2020 happened. I will definitely get there when I’m finally back in BiH! Thanks!

I also explored your shared all these fabulous places during my last journey and we came back with many pleasant memories.

I’m glad you enjoyed your trip

Thank you Kami I plan to travel through BiH and your guide is of great help…Only a few weeks to go

Thank you! I hope you will have a great trip there!

Dzień dobry, Kami

Bardzo dziękuję za blog o Bałkanach. Opowiadania z pięknymi zdjęciami bardzo mi pomogli planować dwutygodniową podróż do Bośni i Hercegowiny. Przepiękny kraj z bogatą i smutną historią. Właśnie wczoraj powróciliśmy stamtąd.

Thanks for great blog, Kami Your stories with nice pictures from Balkans were very useful for planning our two week trip. We just yesterday returned from BiH. Everything was above expectations.

P.S. Widzę, iż Litwy już nie ma na liscie “Next trips” września br. Gdy droga zaprowadzi do Wilna, proszę napisać do mnie :)

Dzień dobry, Romualdasie :) Cieszę się, że mogłam wirtualnie pomóc z planowaniem podróży. Mam nadzieję, że wyjazd na Bałkany się udał. Przepiękne to miejsc, chociaż trudne momentami, ale zdecydowanie warte odwiedzenia!

Litwa zniknęłam z listy “next trips”, ponieważ zeszły weekend spędziłam w Kownie, o którym niedługo więcej napiszę. Do Wilna też muszę koniecznie wrócić, dawno mnie tam nie było! Pozdrawiam serdecznie!

Thanks for quick response, Kami

Our trip to Bosnia was perfect. Waiting for new posts.

Pozdrowienia z Wilna Romualdas

Before we visted Bosnia-Herzegovina last September I had read your post.

I must say the country left a big impression on me: the beauty of the place, the liveliness in Mostar and Sarajevo, the sad history we witnessed in Sarajevo, Mostar and Sebrenica, the kind people, the excellent food…

It’s almost impossible for me not to go back. What a great place.

If anyone is reading this article and is in any doubt: don’t be. Fantastic place. Probably my very best holiday ever.

Amazing pictures, Peter! Thank you for sharing! I’m really glad you enjoyed Bosnia and Herzegovina as much as I did! All the best and happy travels!

Hello, wonderful post, but you missed, for example, the beautiful town of Banja Luka, as well as the Ethno village Stanisici near Bijeljina, which can be perfect for a day or even overnight. Also, the highly disputed, but interesting Bosnian Pyramids near Visoko, or Tito’s bunker near Konjic.

Thank you for the recommendations!

Shush Kami, No more fantastic posts on the diamond called Bosnia & Hercegovina. We need to keep it quiet or everyone will know to visit this super interesting friendly place where my home is. Sarajevo has my heart. Great job. well done.

Thanks! This is such a unique country, isn’t it? :)

ZOHER DAWOOD DAGINAWALA

HI I JUST COMPLETED MY EXCITING TOUR OF BOSNIA & HERGOVINZIA MY WHOLE TRIP WAS COPY PASTE FROM YOUR ARTICLE ABOIVE -FOOD /STAY/DAYTRIP/ AIRPORT SHUTTLE AND ALL OTHER TIPS PROVED TO BE VERY VERY HELPFUL, TO MAKE MY THIS TRIP MOST WONDERFUL AND HASSLE FREE YOU HAD IN PAST PERSONALLY BY REPLYING TO MY MAIL HAD ENCOUARGED ME TO TRAVEL TO MOROCCO AS I WAS BIT UPSET WITH SAFETY ISSUE IN MOROCCO-AND THAT TRIP ALSO TURNED OUT TO BE MOST EXCITING TRIP IN PAST MY FEW TRIP I HAD A WONDERFUL TIME -ALL CREDIT GOES TO YOUR TRAVEL ARTICLES AND TIPS. LOOKING FORWARD I WILL SURE FOLLOW YOUR TIPS FOR MY UPCOMING TRAVELS (SPECIALLY BALKAN REGION) THANKS KAMI FOR YOUR EFFORT. ZOHER DAGINAWALA

I’m really glad you found my article useful and you enjoyed Bosnia and Herzegovina so much, it’s such a wonderful country! All the best!

ON MY LAST DAY COMING TO SARAJEVO FROM MOSTAR BY BUS -MOST OF THE AREA I SAW ALONG THE WAY HAD A BEAUTIFUL SCENERY WITH RIVERS AND LAKES IT WAS MY LAST DAY IN BOSNIA -SO COULD NOT VISIT IT-I WOULD LIKE YOU TO POST SOME BEAUTIFUL PLACES DETAILS BETWEEN MOSTAR AND SARAJEVO,IN YOUR UPCOMING ARTICLE AS I WILL NOT MIND TO VISIT BOSNIA AGAIN IN FUTURE -AND COULD VISIT ABOVE AREA

Hi Kami, great article and notes!

I am from Ukraine, and what my country experience now looks in some aspects similar to recent Bosnian history, thus I am feeling the closeness between people BiH and Ukraine. I’d like to visit some day beautiful Bosnia, and your tips definitely will help, thank you!

Thank you! And sadly, I agree. I also find many resemblances between Bosnia in the 1990s and Ukraine now :( But I’m sure Ukraine will win this war and will be a safe and peaceful country again!

Jagdish Gahlot

Hi Kami. First of all… Thank you for this very informative blog and it will really help for my upcoming trip. I am from UAE and planning for BiH in late September/early Oct this year. Will that be good time along with kid? Also would you recommend few local rent car option (contracts) in Sarajevo? And which mobile network you prefer to use while traveling in BiH based on your previous experience. Thank you again !!!

Late September is definitely a good time for a trip. The weather is still good but it’s not too hot and there are not that many tourists so it’s easier to find good accommodation etc. As for car rent and mobile phone, please ask on my FB group as I haven’t used local services in BiH. Here’s the link https://www.facebook.com/groups/121053081614593

When the second Youtube video on Bosnia & Herzegovina started reading from the same script I realised they are stealing the script from somewhere. And that somewhere is your blog. I’m so sorry have to discover your wonderful travel blog this way and am appalled those bot channels are profiting from your hard work. In case you want to action on them with your copyright claims, an example topic would be “10 Best places in Bosnia and Herzegovina” on youtube.

Thank you for letting me know. That’s unfortunately the reality of writing in internet. While here everything is my original work, I stumbled so many times at the content stolen from me (however, youtube is a first for me!). That’s just so sad. Thanks anyway!

Hey Kami, very useful post, thank you. I’m in Sarajevo now. The cable car return ticket is now 30 BAM XD

Thank you for the update! I appreciate it. All the best!

Hello Kami. Thanks for this informative post. Do you happen to have suggestion as to which cities to be our home base to explore this places. Thank you

I think Sarajevo and Mostar are always good bases to see more of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and both are great cities to visit anyway.

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14 Best Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country that, even after almost 2 years of living in Sarajevo , never stops to amaze me. The wonderful people, the fresh and delicious food, and the diverse landscapes.

Not even the size of Austria, you'll find a wide range of different landscapes squeezed into the borders of this small, heart-shaped place: from mountains to deep woods, high plains, and even beaches. You will also find a few UNESCO World Heritage sites hidden throughout the country.

In my opinion, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a really unique blend of Eastern and Western culture and architecture, all embedded into breathtaking landscapes. So even though you might not find the country on many travel lists, I recommend adding it to yours. Every time I visit a new location here, I am amazed anew by the sheer variety of cultures, sceneries, dishes, and hidden gems.

In this travel guide, I'll show you some of the most beautiful places in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Just don't go hungry while traveling so much - make sure to also try all the delicious Bosnian dishes while visiting the country.

Most people only give Bosnia and Herzegovina a day or two and combine it with a trip to Croatia or Montenegro . I suggest instead you take your time and enjoy the country as long as possible. You may already be surprised to see 14 places on this list, but I actually narrowed it down to just the highlights. For all my insights in the country, these travel guides have you covered.

So without further ado, here are the 14 best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, listed alphabetically.

Things to Know Before You Go

Now that you’re gearing up for your trip and planning the specifics of where you’ll go, there are a few things you don’t need to overlook. 

I know just how easy it is to look towards the big hike, bucket list city, or beach of my dreams and forget about all of the little things in between that’ll make your trip run as smoothly as possible. Be sure to take into consideration these few things before you go to make sure you get all the good bits of your trip without the stress. 

• Make sure you have travel insurance. A good travel insurance, like SafetyWing , will ensure you’re covered in case of emergencies. While you will have to pay upfront for your doctor or hospital costs, unless it’s for a pre-existing condition, you can file a claim and should be reimbursed. For any Americans reading this, fear not, healthcare in pretty much every other country is far more affordable than ours, even if you’re paying out of pocket. 
• Do your best to learn a few local phrases in their language. No, I’m not expecting you to be able to have a fluid conversation with locals at the bus stop if you’re just visiting their country for a week but knowing your numbers (for prices), how to order something (“I would like…”), and basic greetings really will take you a long way. Mondly is a great app for phrases and vocabulary. 
• Book any popular tours you want to do in advance. I’m really not a great planner and I’ve made this mistake more times than I can count. I plan a trip to a destination knowing that I want to do a sailboat trip or food tour and wait until the day before to book only to realize it’s not available the day I’m in town. Don’t make that mistake - if there is something you know you want to do - book your tour in advance.
• Be smart about when you visit Bosnia and Herzegovina . This country gets 4 real seasons so the time of the year you visit will change your trip drastically. Imagine skiing in the winter and swimming waterfalls in the summer!
• Last tip certainly isn’t mandatory but it is helpful. Before you start booking your flights, hotels, and tours, consider opening up a travel credit card. Thanks to our Capital One Venture card , my husband and I have gotten countless free flights just by gaining points on everyday expenses.

Banja Luka is located northwest of the country and is the second-biggest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Also dubbed "the green city," you will see a lot of parks when you visit Banja Luka, and a stroll along the Vrbas river is a must.

The city might look fairly modern, partly because large parts of it have been destroyed in a terrible earthquake in 1969. But you find a few well-preserved Austro-Hungarian houses in the city center, and the old castle walls are still standing and a nice spot to watch the sunset.

When in Banja Luka, don't miss:

• The "Kastel" fortress from Roman times
• Trying banjalučki ćevapi
• Taking a bath in the natural thermal pools on the Vrbas river
• Riding a traditional  Dayak boat  on the river
• Enjoy a guided walking tour of town

Famous for its Dervish Monastery, a national monument to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Blagaj is definitely worth a visit. It's a popular destination, but understandably so: the sanctuary, built into the rocks directly at the spring of Buna river, is quite the sight. There are no practicing dervishes in Bosnia and Herzegovina anymore. Hence, the monastery now hosts a museum, showing curious visitors how the Sufi monks used to live.

If you're looking for a good view, hike up to Stjepangrad Fortress, towering over the small city, and enjoy the vista of the surrounding area from there. It should take an hour from the monastery to get to the castle ruins from the 2nd or 3rd century!

You can easily stop by here on a day trip from Mostar .

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Blidinje Nature Park

This Nature Park boasts beautiful scenery that I haven't seen anywhere else in the world yet. Blidinje Nature Park is located at an elevation of 1,100 to 1,300 meters above sea level and features unique flora and fauna, which you can experience on various hiking trails. In addition, mountain biking around the area and the Blidinje Lake is another popular activity.

Although called a Nature Park, Blidinje is not officially a government-protected area. So the locals in the region got together and created the "Nature Park" – vowing to protect the environment, create sustainable tourism and support local communities. In my opinion, this project is worth supporting, and the nature of Blidinje will not disappoint when you visit.

When in Blidinje Nature Park, don't miss:

• Visiting the Necropolis Dugo polje with hundreds of ornamented tombstones
• Hiking up to Hajdučka Vrata with a designated tour guide
• Biking around Lake Blidinje
• Eating a typical Herzegovinian dinner in the restaurant Hajdučke Vrleti

Herzegovina Waterfalls

If you plan a day trip from Mostar around the Herzegovina region, don't miss the two most beautiful waterfalls in the country: Kravice Falls and their little sister Kočuša.

Even though the Kravice Falls are one of the main attractions of Bosnia and Herzegovina and one of its most popular natural features, they are definitely worth a visit . Be prepared to be not alone in nature, though, when you make your way down to the falls – swimming is allowed in the lake beneath them. Tourists and locals enjoy cooling down in the hot summer months. So I recommend you make your way there early in the day and leave when the tourist buses arrive.

While you have to pay an entrance fee to Kravice, the smaller but not less beautiful Kočuša falls are free to enter. You might be lucky to have this natural beauty all to yourself. There is a little lake to swim in and a traditional restaurant right before the falls.

Kings have been walking along the very same streets you walk on when you visit this beautiful town in central Bosnia. In the Middle Ages, Jajce was the capital of the so-called Bosnian Kingdom, falling to the Ottomans later on. After World War II, Yugoslavia was founded here.

The city is located in a beautiful, hilly area. It offers superb hiking possibilities – an easy one leads you all around the big and small Pliva lake. In addition, Jajce has always been home to many ethnicities and nations. Therefore, I recommend you visit it with an open mind and ready to learn about the country's history.

Although you could easily spend a few days exploring the area, you can visit Jajce as a day trip from Sarajevo .

When in Jajce, don't miss:

• Taking a picture of the pliva waterfalls with the castle in the background
• Hiking up the castle for the best view of the city
• Visiting the 400-year-old Mlinčići watermills
• Taking a paddle boat and exploring lake Pliva

For nearly 50 years, the foothills of Mount Cincar, close to Livno in southwestern Bosnia and Herzegovina, have been home to up to 1.000 wild horses. Released by their owners when machines took over agriculture, they adapted to the harsh weather conditions and now roam the vast plains wild and free. So when you visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, book a tour and spend a few hours in the wild with those gentle animals.

I have yet to do this tour myself, but everybody I met that did it was completely blown away by the experience. Just be mindful when picking the tour operator to take you to the horses. Pick one that values the animals, their personal space, and the environment.

If you want to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina more in-depth and dive deeper into the culture and cuisine of the country, a visit to the historic village of Lukomir is a must! The tiny village is perched atop a 1,500-meter-high mountain right at the second-deepest canyon in all of Europe.

Life in Lukomir is slow; still, the same as it was 70 years ago – the inhabitants live off agriculture, sheep, and now, in modern times, rural tourism. In winter, they leave the village to live in nearby cities, as getting through the snow becomes impossible.

Translated, the village's name means "harbour of peace" – which is indeed what the place is, a little pocket of peacefulness tucked away in the wilderness. The best way to get to the village is by hiking there from Umoljani (around 3 hours) along the mountain ridge. This is the best way to enjoy the view of the canyon too.

When in Lukomir, don't miss:

• Learning about the legend of the dragon of Rakitnica canyon
• Eating pita freshly made in an old wooden oven
• Looking at the historical tombstones "Nekropole sa stećcima"

Mostar's old bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. And from all the places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar gets a fair share. Partly because of its vicinity to Dubrovnik and Split, partly because of the famous picture of the iconic Stari Most spanning the turquoise Neretva river – sometimes the only picture people have ever seen of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mostar is more than its old town, though, and I really recommend staying overnight to be able to explore the city in the mornings before the day tourists arrive. There's a lot to see and do in the entire Herzegovina region . That might also be the only time you have the UNESCO World Heritage Site Stari Most to yourself.

When in Mostar, don't miss:

• Dipping your toes in the ice-cold Neretva – the coldest river in the world
• Watching the bridge jumpers dive off the old bridge
• Reading up on and visiting the Bruce Lee Statue
• Exploring the city beyond the Bazar and old town

Croatia, Montenegro, and Albania are not the only countries on the Balkan peninsula blessed with beautiful coastlines by the Adriatic Sea. Through a funny historical coincidence, Bosnia and Herzegovina received a small strip of coastline - 20 kilometers only - that now hosts the only Bosnian seaside resort: Neum.

The town sits on a hill, offering beautiful views of the Adriatic and its coastline dotted with rocks and pine trees. Even though Neum is not the most beautiful of coastal towns on the Adriatic, the city can be an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Croatian towns in the summer months. And let's be honest: The beaches are the same, minus the crowds and hefty price tags you get in the neighboring countries.

Sarajevo is the capital and, at the same time, the largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. You might know it mostly from history classes. After all, it's where World War I started and where the Winter Olympics took place in 1984. During the Bosnian War, the city was under siege for 1,425 days. Sarajevo, however, is so much more than just its past!

It boasts a wide variety of architectural styles and diverse cuisine. You will feel like being simultaneously in two cities or countries. After the 400-year rule of the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarians took over, modernizing the city and giving it its unique look – a mix of East and West.

When in Sarajevo, don't miss:

• An urban hike with English-speaking guides where you can see first-hand how nature and city combine
• Strolling through the old town, admiring the Ottoman architecture
• Visiting the Latin Bridge where the first world war started
• Looking at the clock tower with the only clock still working in lunar time
• Taking the cable car up Trebević mountain to hike along the abandoned bobsleigh track from the Winter Olympics

Sutjeska National Park

How beautiful a country Bosnia and Herzegovina really is becomes visible in Sutjeska National Park. This area close to the Montenegrin border hosts Bosnia's highest mountains and the last primaeval forest in all of Europe that is also on the UNESCO world heritage list.

You can explore the area on one of the countless hiking trails – I recommend taking a guide for safety (there are bears and wolves in those forests) and also to learn about the conservation efforts in the area. Another activity you can do in Sutjeska is rafting on Drina river– it's not for the faint of heart, but definitely an experience!

This small town in central Bosnia used to be the capital city of Bosnia during Ottoman times and you can still see of lot of the Ottoman heritage in the narrow little streets of Travnik. The historic town centre is beautifully located on a little hill overlooking the valley.

Close to Travnik, you also find hiking trails and a small ski resort on Vlašić mountain so it's really a destination for the whole year. Given their location, it's also a convenient spot to visit Jajce waterfall .

When in Travnik, don't miss:

• Checking out the ornamented mosque
• Eating the famous Travnički Ćevapi
• Visiting the birth house of Nobel prize winner Ivo Andrić

Of all the places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Trebinje is my favorite. It's a hidden gem often overlooked when people plan their Herzegovina itinerary. However, Trebinje is worth visiting because of the Mediterranean feel this little town oozes from its narrow streets and every corner.

Trebinje might be smaller than Mostar, but it's also less touristic and more laid-back. Another plus is that it is the perfect base for day trips to Dubrovnik or even Montenegro.

When in Trebinje, don't miss:

• Enjoying a guided walking tour
• Strolling along the river to see the historic Arslanagić bridge
• Going wine tasting in one of the countless boutique wineries
• Making your way up to Hercegovačka Gračanica for the best panoramic view

Una National Park (& Bihać)

Called "The One" by the Romans when they first laid their eyes on it, the Una river really is one of a kind. I haven't seen a river with that many shades of green and blue and turquoise anywhere else. Significant parts of the river and surroundings are protected national parks.

Una National Park is the perfect place to go hiking and is home to two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina. In addition, the whole area is full of forests, streams, and magical hideaways such as Japodski Otoci. It's located right outside of the small city Bihać , right on the border with Croatia.

When in Una National Park, don't miss:

• Seeing the waterfalls Martin Brod and Strbački Buk
• Visiting the Fethija Mosque – an old church turned into a mosque
• Spending an afternoon at Japodski Otoci
• Taking a boat ride on the Una river

Getting Around the Country

There are so many beautiful places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina – this is just a fraction of them. To reach all popular tourist destinations in this beautiful country, I recommend renting a car – public transportation does exist. Still, it's not always reliable, and not all cities are well connected. So if you plan a Bosnia road trip, renting a car might just give you the flexibility you need.

Enjoy All the Beauty Bosnia and Herzegovina Has to Offer

Now you're ready to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina! You can't go wrong regardless of which places you choose to visit. I promise you will fall in love with the country, its beautiful landscapes, delicious foods, and friendly locals head over heels.

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9 of the best places to visit in Bosnia

Despite the overwhelming popularity of neighbouring Croatia , Bosnia is a destination that has somehow remained relatively unexplored and off the beaten path, much to the delight of those who include a stop there on their Balkans itinerary.

With the border located less than an hour’s drive from top spots like Dubrovnik or Kotor, Montenegro , travelling to Bosnia is a cinch and makes for an amazing road trip: think lush rolling hills, centuries old ruins, historic cities and towering waterfalls pooling into jade-green lakes. Oh, and if all that wasn’t enough to tempt you to explore Bosnia, you’ll be happy to know it’s also shockingly affordable by European standards.

From north to south, here are the best places to visit in Bosnia.

Una National Park

Kick off your Bosnia tour in Una National Park (also known as Nacionalni Park Una), which hugs the Croatian border less than 90 minutes from popular Plitvice Lakes National Park.

The park was established in 2008 as a way to protect the Krka, Unac and Upper Una rivers, flora and fauna, waterfalls and archaeological sites, and is one of the most biodiverse areas in the Balkans.

The highlight of a visit to Una National Park is undoubtedly Štrbački buk, a stunning 25-metre high terraced waterfall surrounded by viewing platforms where crystal clear water cascades into the swirling pools below. This gem is so spectacular it manages to put Plitvice to shame, making it the crown jewel of the entire park.

But that’s not all: there are plenty of other spots to explore in the area, including the similarly stunning Milancev Buk waterfall, a network of walking trails linking the picturesque Japod Islands, the Sultan Ahmed I Mosque in historic Kulen Vakuf, and the Serbian-Orthodox Rmanj Monastery dedicated to Saint Nicolas which has been declared a national monument.

Where to stay in Bihac: The town of Bihac is the closest major area to Una National Park, and guests of Hotel Kostelski Buk love the hearty Bosnian breakfast that’s included, and how most rooms overlook the water. Click here to book

Pulling into the centre of charming Banja Luka, it’s safe to say you’ll think you just arrived in Instagram heaven.

A rainbow-hued displays of umbrellas is suspended over the main shopping street Gospodska, a pretty river meanders by, and the intricate facade of the grand Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is sure to leave you speechless.

Banja Luka is the second largest city in Bosnia after Sarajevo, and the perfect place to settle in for a few nights as a base for day trips around Bosnia . Famous for its cafe culture (it’s estimated there are 1,000 cafes and bars , for just 200-thousand residents), Banja Luka is the kind of place you’d be content to simply sit back, relax and watch the world go by.

Of course, those keen to pound the pavement will still find themselves with plenty to do, including exploring the medieval Kastel Fortress which stands strong on the riverbank, heading inside the Orthodox cathedral to gaze at its massive, dazzling chandelier, and admiring the Ottoman architecture of the Ferhadija Mosque.

Where to stay in Banja Luka: Hotel Ideja gets rave reviews for its sleek, modern rooms, great central location, and free parking. Click here to book

The Bosnia road trip continues in Jajce (pronounced yeit-za ), and this picturesque, walled city is home to an unforgettable spectacle: the Pliva Waterfall, incredibly found right in the centre of town.

Soaring 17 metres high, the torrent of water created from the convergence of two rivers pummels down into a turquoise pool with such force it could rival Niagara Falls . The phenomenon is best experienced by standing on the official viewing platform near the bottom, but beware–the spray will absolutely soak you, so be sure to keep those pricey cameras covered up!

Jajce also has plenty to offer in the outdoor adventure department, thanks to the nearby Pliva Lakes. Surrounded by lush green hills, the serene, emerald-toned waters are perfect for boat rides, fishing and swimming, and there are plenty of campsites and family-friendly activities which makes this a popular spot for a summer getaway.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the whimsical old wooden watermills , which date back to the Middle Ages and were originally used by local farmers.

Book a tour to Jajce with Viator:

Storied Sarajevo is your next Bosnia road trip stop, and its war-torn past makes it a fascinating place for history buffs. More than two decades after the brutal siege that broke up the former Yugoslavia, evidence of the battles remains, like bullet holes in buildings and a sea of white crosses marking gravesites.

To gain insight into what life was like during those dark days, head to the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity and Genocide, or the 800-metre long Sarajevo War Tunnel where supplies like food and medicine were smuggled in to desperate civilians while the city was under fire.

READ MORE: Sarajevo sightseeing: 5 things to do in Bosnia’s capital

Despite its sombre history, Sarajevo has since recovered and has plenty of lively areas worth exploring. Head to cosmopolitan Ferhadija Street for great shopping, then wander over to the old town, Sarajevo Bašcaršija. Here you’ll find towering mosques, bustling bazaars with traditional handicrafts like copper plates and gold-gilded tea sets, and plenty of outdoor cafes for sipping strong Bosnian coffee.

Book a Sarajevo tour with GetYourGuide:

Book with viator:, where to stay in sarajevo:.

• Isa Begov Hamam Hotel – Like something straight out of Arabian Nights, this exquisite property across from the old town has decor that makes guests feel like sultans, and features a restored hammam complete with a sauna and massage treatments. Click here to book
• War Hostel Sarajevo – Immersive, disturbing, haunting, eye-opening…whatever you call it, a night spent inside this hostel is sure to leave an impression. Started by a family that survived the war, the space has been transformed into a place that accurately depicts the dire conditions they experienced during the siege, including bomb shelter beds, military blankets, and candles as a light source. There is also a nightly talk where they share stories about the impacts the war, as well as documentaries that play inside the bunker.

If there’s one place that’s not to be missed on a Bosnia itinerary, it’s enchanting Mostar .

Hands down the prettiest of all Bosnian cities, it’s beloved for its picturesque bridge Stari Most which arches across the Neretva river right in the centre of the old town. Originally built in the 1500s, it was destroyed in the war and had to be painstakingly rebuilt to its former glory. The hard work paid off, and it’s now one of the country’s most iconic monuments and a highlight of travelling in Bosnia.

The view of Stari Most is particularly impressive during the golden hour, when the sun casts a soft glow on the colourful facades from the surrounding cafes and restaurants, dotted by the minaret of the Koski Mehmed-Pasha mosque.

READ MORE: The best things to do in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Most visitors spend their time in Mostar exploring the old town, which houses sites like a traditional hammam, an excellent war museum, mosques and the bazaar. There, a kaleidoscope of original paintings, ornate jewellery and handmade wares drawing from Turkish and Ottoman influences are on display, making it the perfect place to pick up some beautiful souvenirs.

Finish the day by grabbing a table at one of the waterfront restaurants, and fill up on a Bosnian dish like cevapi , where sizzling meat like lamb or beef is topped with onions and served in pita bread.

Where to stay in Mostar:

• Apartments Solis- This family-run property is absolutely phenomenal, particularly given its budget-friendly pricing. The huge, modern, private apartments are spotlessly clean, fully stocked with kitchen supplies which makes it perfect for families or long-term stays, and include wi-fi and private, secure parking. The hosts are very helpful and gracious, and Apartments Solis has a great location just a quick walk from the old town. Click here to book
• Villa Anri Mostar- This Mostar hotel features patios and terraces overlooking the old town, Mediterranean gardens, and beautiful decor that seamlessly blends old with new and uses eco-friendly materials. The staff are wonderful, and parking and breakfast are included. Click here to book

Book a Mostar tour:

Just 15 minutes down the road from Mostar you’ll find the tiny village of Blagaj, Bosnia, which is home to one of the country’s most photographed sites: The Velagić House and a monastery, both dramatically built into the side of a cliff.

Blagaj Tekija (also known as Blagaj Tekke) dates back nearly six centuries, and was built right on the banks of the green Buna river which makes for a stunning contrast against the building’s whitewashed walls.

The best viewpoints are found from across the river or the nearby stone bridge, and boat rides that go back into the cave can also be booked on site. If time allows, head to the medieval Blagaj Fort (Stjepan Grad) afterwards, which is perched high on a karst hill.

READ MORE: The best of Bosnia: Why you need to do this epic Mostar day trip

Do you believe in miracles? Then you’ll fit right in with the thousands of Catholic pilgrims who travel to Medjugorje each year.

In the 1980s, six children playing in the nearby hills returned home to report they’d seen the Virgin Mary and she spoke to them; a claim met with much skepticism at first, until others continued coming forward with stories of their own apparitions. To date, more than 15 million people have made the pilgrimage to Medjugorje’s Apparition Hill in hopes of experiencing their own vision, which makes this otherwise unassuming spot one of the most popular places to visit in Bosnia.

Click below to book day tours for your trip to Bosnia:

Kravica waterfalls.

If you didn’t get your waterfall fill in Jajce, then be sure to make a beeline for Kravice. It’s here you’ll find the Kravica Waterfalls (also known as Kravice Falls), which are considered to be one of the best things to see in Bosnia.

It’s worth spending an entire, sun-soaked day at this stunning spot along the Trebižat river, where a row of nearly two dozen falls dramatically plummet 25 metres off a limestone deposit down into deep emerald pools. The scene is absolutely spellbinding, as a thick canopy of moss, figs and poplars frame the spectacle which is best seen from one of the surrounding walking trails, taking a boat ride or even swimming right up to them.

The Kravice Falls are open from May to October, and there are washroom facilities and restaurants on site.

Book a day trip with GetYourGuide:

The last stop on your Bosnia tour is a gooder: the tiny village of Pocitelj which dates back to at least the Middle Ages and is under consideration to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Built precipitously into the hillside overlooking the tranquil Neretva river, the town is fortified with thick rock walls, and the small wooden homes and stalls selling traditional handicrafts are linked with winding stone staircases.

Historic Pocitelj is beloved for its gorgeous Turkish-influenced architecture which includes minarets marking the mosque below, an impressive fortress and clock tower, making it feel like the kind of place where time has simply stood still.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• 5 things you need to know about driving in Bosnia
• One week in Croatia: The best places for the ultimate road trip itinerary
• Epic day trips from Dubrovnik, Croatia
• The most beautiful places to visit on a Montenegro road trip

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About The Author

Tamara Elliott

3 thoughts on “9 of the best places to visit in bosnia”.

Thank you very much for a perfect article about Bosnia. How many days we should stay in Bosnia if we want to cover everything you wrote about? Thank you very much for your respond, Martina

Hi there, glad you found it helpful! We spent about 5 days there and managed to do all this, so if you had a week you’d be in great shape!

Hi is it possible to see Bosnia and do this itinerary without driving around? (Asking as I’m travelling alone and not comfortable behind the wheel)

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Home > 20 Hidden Gems & Places To Visit In Bosnia And Herzegovina

20 Hidden Gems & Places To Visit In Bosnia And Herzegovina

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, often hailed as one of Europe’s most underrated countries, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich Ottoman architecture, and vibrant city life. This guide is a collection of our whole team’s suggestions on the best places to visit, reflecting our shared passion for this enchanting country.

From the sprawling streets of Sarajevo, its biggest city, to the serenity of a tiny village, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a haven for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

Join us as we explore these handpicked locations, each one a testament to why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great place for an unforgettable experience.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, one of the least visited countries in Europe ( 777,000 international tourist arrivals ), is often forgotten while planning a backpacking trip through Europe .

Like many Balkan countries , it is stuck in the shadows of more popular tourist destinations in Western Europe. However, this is not for lack of natural magnificence , culture, history, affordability, or any quality that makes a travel destination great. 

Scarred from the horrific civil war that tore the country apart in the 1990s, Bosnia-Herzegovina has slowly built its reputation anew , and whispers are starting to circle around travel circles once more.

Though the writing is on the walls — its dark history can be seen clear as day all around the country — with its craggily, heartbreaking remnants of the Bosnian war that devastated the country. What is left is a touching story of character and a united nation — one which speaks volumes of the human warmth and hospitality you will encounter.

Between its beautiful mountains, its gushing white water rivers, its crumbling medieval castles left in ruins, enormous and plentiful waterfalls , and affordable yet surprising ski slopes, there is a little something for everyone in this country, and what meets the eye is only half of what there is to see and do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

We all fell in love with Bosnia Herzegovina , and we can’t get our minds off of it.

Although the country doesn’t see hordes of tourists like other places in Europe, there is still a warm and friendly tourist trail leading to some fantastic secrets in Bosnia and Herzegovina . 

This list is a compilation of some of our favorite places to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on the adventure. 

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Top Places In Bosnia And Herzegovina

As promised, we have put together a list of top places to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina to make planning for your vacation this year a breeze.

This list by no means encompasses all the things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina , though we tried to cover a large range of activities and places all over the country.

Without further ado, here they are:

Historical & Cultural Sites

1. sarajevo bobsleigh track.

Finished in 1982 in preparation for the Winter Olympics, which Sarajevo had the honor of hosting in 1984, this 4,000-foot bobsleigh and luge track became a sort of symbol of national pride in Bosnia and Herzegovina. 

It garnered a lot of attention due to the nature, scenery, and multitude of events held around the track’s vicinity during the World Games. Then, several years later, the track was able to be used for various things involving the World Cup competitions, and it seemed as if the investment in the track would pay long-lasting dividends. 

However, then, the Yugoslav Wars began in 1991, and, like a majority of the country, the track turned into a battlefield. The nature of the track being curved and inclined made it a prime vantage point in the battle, and it was destroyed over the course of several years. The entire system became blanketed in bullet holes. 

It was left in ruins but not forgotten. It has become a favorite spot for locals as a reminder of the times. Graffiti artists have taken a liking to it, too, covering the entire concrete course in fantastic, colorful street art.

It is being reconstructed in hopes of salvaging it somehow; however, tours can still be taken, and history can still be seen. Careful, though; many unexploded landmines still lay around the area — so don’t venture too far from the well-beaten path.

It is best to take a local or someone who knows the area with you to be safe. You can negotiate a fair price with a taxi as it is a reasonably popular tourist destination. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the entire city.

2. Museum Of The Assassination Of Franz Ferdinand

To stay with the war theme we have encountered across much of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you must visit the Museum of the Assassination of Franz Ferdinand. 

Many people don’t know that on the 28th of June, 1914, World War I actually started in the heart of Sarajevo when the world was flipped upside down. Archduke Franz Ferdinand was shot and killed, which set off a hurricane of events leading to the First World War. 

Now, a museum has been set up in the building across the street from the historical scene where you will learn that the young schoolboy who shot the archduke that fateful day was not acting alone. 

Several assassination attempts failed that day, and the boy was supposed to only play a minor role in the plot to kill Franz Ferdinand. 

With years and years of clashing empires in Europe, a situation such as this was all that was needed to set off a conflict to the magnitude of an eventual world war. And it all started in modern-day Bosnia and Herzegovina.

3. Old Jewish Cemetery Of Sarajevo

With nearly 4,000 centuries-old tombstones, weathered and in ruins, this cemetery was the site of an exceptional military position for battle during the Yugoslav War of the Nineties. Situated on the mountainside, the cemetery was sought after for its excellent vantage point. Because of that, the site was heavily defended, including landmines, among other tactics. 

Because of the mines left over from the war, the cemetery became inaccessible for several years after the war had ended. It was estimated that the cemetery grounds still had over 70 undetonated landmines sitting in its thick grasses.

Today, the landmines are said to be cleaned up, and it has returned to a site where you can witness the history and acceptance of Sarajevo — which served as a refuge to Jews of the late 15th Century from hostile Spanish rule. 

In town, you will find a Jewish quarter with a large synagogue and many other cultural and historical sites tailored to the religion.

4. Bascarsija

Situated along the banks of the Miljacka River, you can see one of the few remaining examples of oriental architecture in the Balkans at Sarajevo’s main attraction — the old bazaar, Bascarsija . 

The name is derived from two words, translated to “Main Street.” Here, you can find all kinds of crafts and artisan work, ranging from pottery to jewelry and metalwork. However, many of the old artisan shops have now been converted to tourist souvenir shops and cafes to suit their visitors better.

Navigate your way through this network of narrow streets and try your hand at bargaining with the locals. 

Although the area has been heavily influenced and affected by war-torn history, after the Second World War, the bazaar of Bascarsija eventually became a symbol of the city once more.

5. Dervish Monastery In Blagaj

Only 15 minutes by car from Mostar lies the iconic Dervish monastery of Blagaj. This is another popular stop on bus trips from Dubrovnik to Mostar and makes for one of the best day trips from Mostar.

Known locally as the Blagaj Tekija , it’s a striking collection of historic buildings and the natural wonder that is the Buna River spring. Not surprisingly, this is a national monument in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

People have built picturesque monasteries all over Europe, but this one is among the most beautiful. This 16 th -century Ottoman Empire Dervish monastery sits comfortably at the base of a huge rock wall while crystal-clear spring water calmly flows by. It’s as magical a place as you’ll find anywhere in the Balkans .

Several restaurants line the river, excellent spots for a relaxing lunch. Try a local trout dish !

Natural Wonders & Parks

6. kravice waterfalls.

Creating a scene you might expect to find in South America or Africa, Kravice Waterfall sits deep in the thick of Europe’s last remaining jungle. Who knew there was a sister falls of the famed Iguazu Falls, and it is hiding in the Balkans of all places !

This impressive feat of Mother Nature drops as far as 85 feet and expands nearly 500 feet across several falls along a cliff’s edge. There’s even a rope swing!

The Kravice Falls are most easily visited on a day trip from the popular tourist town of Mostar in Southwest Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is like a miniature replica of the Iguazu Falls but without the hordes of people, which the South American falls now gets.

You can join a tour to visit this incredible area, but most people would recommend renting a car or even bargaining for a fair taxi ride to the falls rather than being stuck with a group in this magical place. Make sure you bring your camera; this is a photog’s dream!

7. Watermills Of Jajce

These little wooden huts had important use years ago. Now, they are a reminder of how life used to be. The town of Jajce in central Bosnia has always been a center of action. At the conflux of the Kravice and Vrbas rivers, the town has gained international fame for its breathtaking waterfall in the middle of town. It was once the capital of the (former) Kingdom of Bosnia.

It is a hotspot for tourism nowadays, given the serene nature, waterfalls, mountains, deep valleys, and fortified city walls and castles. Many people flock to this city on their Bosnian adventure – well, at least that is what Ana tells us.

And if you go further downriver, near the Pliva Lakes, you will find these huts that sit above rapidly flowing water — a symbol of ingenious engineering of simpler times. Instead of using one large waterwheel, these small water mills used the power of many smaller mechanisms in order to ground local farmers’ wheat into flour—an impressive idea of the Austro-Hungarian empire. 

8. Sutjeska National Park

Deep within the heart of Bosnia-Herzegovina lies Sutjeska National Park , a hidden gem often overlooked by travelers.

This pristine wilderness offers a serene escape from city life, free from crowds and tourist traps. One of the park’s best-kept secrets is the enchanting Perucica Primeval Forest. Towering trees, untouched for centuries, create a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Hiking and wildlife spotting are prime activities here, with a chance to encounter brown bears, wolves, and chamois.

For the adventurous, a hike to Maglic Mountain, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s highest peak, offers breathtaking views of rugged landscapes. Be prepared for a demanding trek. Sutjeska National Park rewards those seeking authentic outdoor experiences with unparalleled beauty and tranquility.

If you crave a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path adventure in Bosnia-Herzegovina, make sure Sutjeska National Park is on your list.

9. Japodski Otoci, Una National Park

Located in the center of Una National Park, you will find Japodski Otoci, which basically translates to ‘Japanese Islands.’ Grab your walking shoes and take a wander around the area, which consists of five different islands linked by rivers and waterfalls.

This really looks like something from a fairytale book, and you’ll find a restaurant and plenty of spots to sit and catch your breath.

This is a sublime place to let the kids run free. There is lots of room for the little ones to spread about and loosen up.

10. Visoko – Mysterious Bosnian Pyramids

Visoko is a town just some 30 minutes outside Sarajevo, best known for its ancient pyramids. You read that right – while there’s no concrete evidence that the massive pyramid-shaped hills are burial sights, their appearance alone was enough to boost the area’s tourism significantly.

You can also explore underground labyrinths situated below the “pyramids,” as well as visit a museum that boasts a significant collection of items excavated there.

Whether or not you actually believe that these are the oldest human-made pyramids is up to you, but it’s certainly worth visiting and seeing them with your own two eyes. One of the top half-day trips from Sarajevo for sure!

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Iconic structures & architectural marvels, 11. stari most.

Speaking of Mostar, a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina wouldn’t be complete without a stop in this tiny fairy tale town . And the prized attraction? The Old Bridge connects the two sides of the town across the Neretva River. 

The Old Bridge of Mostar (Stari Most) was destroyed in a matter of seconds during the Yugoslav Wars by Croatia in November of 1993 — though its construction (starting in 1557) took nine years to complete during the Turkish Ottoman rule. 

Magnificent because of its simplicity — only a single 100-foot long, 75-foot high bridge arching over the river — Stari Most was symbolic of the city of Mostar. When the famous Stari Most bridge went down, sadness befell the people of the city. 

That’s why construction began at the beginning of the new millennium to rebuild the once grand structure to its former glory. In 2004, the bridge was completed again. 

Today, it remains a symbol of Mostar, and many tourists and locals alike love to spend time around the bridge, taking in its beauty and symbolism. 

If you are lucky, you may even visit while locals are doing their famed free-fall leaps to the river below. If you are brave enough, you can join them.

However, they will generally jump for any crowd who is willing to tip their performance at the right price.

• Where To Stay In Mostar

12. Historic Village Of Počitelj

Sometimes called the “Pearl of Herzegovina,” the ancient village of Počitelj is a classic stopping point en route from Dubrovnik to Mostar. It lies just north of the Croatian border, about a 30-minute drive south of Mostar .

Located on the left bank of the Neretva River—which, by the way, also flows through the heart of Mostar and right underneath the Stari Most—Počitelj sits in a natural amphitheater and used to be a strategically important town. This is still evident because of the still-present fortified stone walls and a fortress. Other landmarks include an old mosque and a bell tower that offers astounding panoramic views.

This historic town thrived from the 16 th to the 18 th centuries. Its evolution happened over two distinct periods—the medieval and Ottoman periods. Currently, Počitelj is on the Tentative List of UNESCO , being considered for inclusion in the World Heritage Site list.

13. The Cable Car In Sarajevo

If you’re not afraid of heights, you should definitely ride the Trebević cable car. It’s fun, and you’ll get to experience incredible views of the city. Plus, if you ride the cable car , you can actually visit the Trebević mountain.

The cable car symbolizes the city; it was initially opened in 1959, but it was destroyed during the siege. It was reconstructed in the last few years, and it finally opened to the public in 2018.

The ride lasts about 7 minutes, and it’s quite fun. You can get out when you get to the top, or you can stay in the cabin and make your way back to the city – it’s up to you. If you decide to get out and explore Trebević, definitely visit the abandoned bobsleigh track mentioned previously, as that’s one of the most iconic spots on the mountain.

And if you’re not in the mood to walk around the mountain, you can complete the entire ride in some 20 minutes.

Unique Experiences & Activities

14. eat dinner at restaurant river dock in bihać.

You won’t get a better location to eat dinner in Bihać than sitting on a wooden boat bobbing on the Una River in the little village of Ripač. Head to the River Dock for lunch or dinner (dinner is better, thanks to the sunset!)

As the last rays of sunlight glitter on the water’s edge, you’ll be off on your merry way, chugging slowly towards a waterfall as you enjoy traditional Bosnian food . Sounds made upright? I promise it is indeed true!

The surrounding green scenery makes you feel like you’re a million miles from anything, and the food is, of course, also rather outstanding. Cevapi and meats , trout, soups,  you choose!

The experience lasts an hour, and if you are not keen on being on a boat for that long, then you can also enjoy the tasty local cuisine in the restaurant by the shade of the garden, where there is an ideal place for kids to roam and play!

15. Bullfights Of Grmec

Grmeč is widely recognized for its bullfights, also known as Bull wrestling, within the Balkans. Referred to as the Corrida of Grmeč (Grmečka korida), these events have been held every first Sunday in August for more than 200 years, drawing in numerous spectators.

However, unlike in Spanish tradition, humans don’t intervene in the fight, and the fights never result in death. The fight follows the bulls’ natural instinct. Therefore, if a bull knows it is losing, he will back down from the other bull. 

Bullfights like this take place all over western Bosnia, and they are still, to this day, revered as a showing of ancient origin. The fights are usually organized every first Sunday in August, so if you are traveling at this time and can stomach the thought of fighting, find yourself a ticket to the event and check out a pastime of Bosnian heritage.

16. Cross Mountain Of Medjugorje

The Cross Mountain of Medjugorje is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. This lesser-known spot holds great significance for those seeking a unique spiritual experience.

The journey to this sacred site begins with a hike up a rugged path, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. It’s not a strenuous trek, but it does require a bit of stamina.

At the summit, you’ll be greeted by a towering white cross that stands as a symbol of faith and hope. The view from here is simply breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the picturesque Herzegovina landscape. I’ve had the privilege of making this hike twice, once with three of my aunties aged between 50-70, and they managed it without any major issues – but it was a slow grind up. It’s a testament to the accessible nature of this hike.

Many visitors describe a sense of peace and tranquility that washes over them as they take in the serene beauty of the surroundings. While the Cross Mountain of Medjugorje may not be on every traveler’s radar, it’s a spot worth adding to your itinerary if you’re looking for a unique and meaningful experience.

Whether you’re a devout pilgrim or simply seeking a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this hidden treasure promises a moment of reflection and connection with nature. So, lace up your hiking boots, embrace the adventure, and discover Cross Mountain’s serene charm for yourself.

War History & Remembrance

17. sarajevo war tunnel museum.

As is with most attractions around Bosnia and Herzegovina, there is a heavy war influence with much real history surrounding the site . As you can tell, this country was deeply impacted by violence and a dark past, and, as we said, the history is written on the walls. 

The Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum is just another instance of history becoming a part of the country’s present. Construction of the tunnel, which was codenamed “Objekt BD,” began in 1993 to protect a large part of the city from the Serbian siege. 

The tunnel was amazingly dug by hand and shovel, as you will be able to see upon visiting . After tireless work and days and days of occupation by laborers who were paid in cigarettes, the two sides of the tunnel finally met in the dog days of July to create a 2,500-foot shelter, which was strengthened by steel and concrete. 

To finish, a miniature railway was built to shuttle in food and other supplies to those seeking refuge. Now, it remains an ode to the heart of the Sarajevo people. 

• Coolest Museums In Sarajevo

18. Tunnel Of Hope

Hidden away in the heart of Bosnia-Herzegovina lies the Tunnel of Hope, a lesser-known gem that offers a unique glimpse into the country’s tumultuous history. Located on the outskirts of Sarajevo, this unassuming underground passage played a vital role during the Bosnian War in the early ’90s. While it may not boast grandeur or opulence, its historical significance is undeniable.

The Tunnel of Hope was a lifeline during the siege of Sarajevo, connecting the besieged city to the free territory beyond the airport. This narrow, dimly lit tunnel allowed supplies, food, and even people to pass through, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos of war. Today, a portion of the tunnel is open to the public, providing a thought-provoking journey through the past.

You can explore the preserved section of the tunnel, viewing artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the harrowing story of survival and resilience. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges faced by the people of Sarajevo during those dark days.

If you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about this region’s turbulent past, a visit to the Tunnel of Hope is a must. It’s an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s history and the indomitable spirit of its people, all while stepping back in time through this hidden corridor of hope.

19. Zeljava Airbase

Objekat 505, as it is officially known, is just over the border with Croatia and is the largest underground airport base in the country. 

Similar to something you might expect to see at Area 51 or in Star Wars, Zeljava Airbase served as a strategic command center for Bosnian and Herzegovinian defense during the Yugoslav War.

Secretly constructed in the middle of the 20th Century for a whopping six billion dollars (three times the annual budget of the Balkans’ two largest military forces in Serbia and Croatia), the airbase became a military astonishment — even built to withstand a blast from a nuclear warhead. 

However, several years later, the Yugoslav National Army decided to destroy its functionality using built-in explosives to prevent it from being used by anyone else. 

Unfortunately, because of the European refugee crisis, this site has become quite hard to reach. Because of its location near the border, many police patrol the area, and if caught, you will have to pay a fine. Though, we still think it is worth seeing, even if you have to risk it!

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Major Cities & Urban Exploration

20. banja luka – the second largest city in bih.

Banja Luka is a pretty picturesque place, and it’s somewhere you’ll definitely want to snap some photos. As you head to the High Street, you’ll see brightly colored umbrellas hanging over the street and lots of small boutique stores to check out.

Definitely visit the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and head inside for fantastic architecture.

Kastel Fortress and Ferhadija Mosque are two other must-visits. This city is the second largest in the country, and there is a lot to see and do. You could stay here for a couple of days and enjoy the laid-back vibe. Oh, and the nightlife here is pretty vibrant, too, according to Adam.

Where Is Bosnia And Herzegovina?

With just over 3.5 million people living in the entire country, Bosnia and Herzegovina certainly aren’t as busy as other Balkan countries . There is plenty of space to explore, too. It is one of the larger countries, landlocked between three other Balkans countries in the region’s center: Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro . 

People who visit Bosnia and Herzegovina often include surrounding countries in their itineraries. The entire region around the country is absolutely gorgeous and offers a multitude of nature scenes and things to do. 

When To Visit Bosnia And Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina truly shines year-round, welcoming visitors through snowy winters and balmy summers. Known for its excellent skiing conditions, the country transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for those who love the slopes. In contrast, the warmer months offer lush, well-kept hiking trails, ideal for exploring the great outdoors.

The country’s medieval castles are a delight under the summer sun, yet they gain a magical allure when draped in winter snow.

However, if skiing isn’t your main draw, consider a visit during the warmer seasons. This way, you can fully enjoy Bosnia and Herzegovina’s stunning rivers and lakes, which are at their best when the weather is mild.

Final Word On Places In Bosnia And Herzegovina

Though Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t the first country on your list of places to see in Europe, it doesn’t mean it is missing the pizazz, which makes it special.

We love this country, and part of the reason why is because we feel we have really beat the crowds to this beautiful country. It still feels like an unfound gem within a region that is growing in popularity every day.

As we conclude our journey through Bosnia and Herzegovina, remember that each corner of this country boasts some of the most beautiful places on earth. Whether you seek tranquility or adventure, Bosnia and Herzegovina is the perfect place, genuinely worth visiting for a memorable and enriching experience.

• What To Do In Bosnia And Herzegovina
• How To Spend A Day In Mostar
• Stay In The Capital Of Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Best Restaurants And Cafes In Mostar
• Guide To The National Parks Of Bosnia And Herzegovina
• Must-Try Bosnian Desserts For Your Travels

Comments (3)

I am from Pakistan i am interested to visit Bosnia send me invitation fee details thanks

So disappointed you are promoting bull fighting. This is animal abuse and not justified no matter the culture or country. Btw, letting your kids run around unsupervised might be great for you but ruins the experience for other guests.

There is no human interaction in the bull fights and the bulls do not die, the dominating bull wins, and the other backs down and walks away. Get a grip Mate.

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Best things to do in Bosnia & Herzegovina

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Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country that has something for everyone. The country has a rich history and culture that can be experienced in its many beautiful cities, natural wonders, and stunning landscapes. Whether you're a history buff or an adventure seeker, there's something for everyone in this beautiful country. Here are the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

1. Visit Una National Park

2. spend time at the blagaj monastery, 3. go rafting in bihac, 4. see the mosques of banja luka, 5. marvel at the architecture of mostar, 6. see the waterfalls of jajce, 7. explore the dinaric alps, 8. experience the spectacular views of tara canyon, 9. discover the capital city of sarajevo, 10. hike at the kravice falls, 11. get amazed by the rakitnica canyon, 12. visit beautiful town of trebinje, 13. try local cuisine.

This article is inspired by our Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget — your essential guide for exploring Europe.

One of the most beautiful natural parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Una National Park is a haven for nature lovers. The park boasts crystal-clear rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests that are home to various species of flora and fauna. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, rafting, kayaking, and fishing in the park. The park is located in the northwest of the country and covers an area of over 190 square kilometres..

Blagaj Monastery is an ancient Islamic monastery located near the city of Mostar. The monastery was built in the 15th century and is situated on the bank of the Buna River. The monastery is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful natural surroundings. Visitors can explore the monastery, take a boat ride on the river, or enjoy a traditional Bosnian meal at one of the nearby restaurants.

Looking for inspiration for your next big adventure? Don't miss our guide to the most exotic places to travel around the world.

Bihac is a small town located in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its stunning natural beauty and historical significance. The town is situated on the banks of the Una River and is surrounded by lush forests, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bosnia’s Bihać is the ultimate rafting spot in Herzegovina, with the crystal-clear River Una offering the best experience upstream.

Where to stay in Bihac:

• For an elegant stay surrounded by nature: Hotel Kostelski Buk
• For a central stay: Hotel Emporium
• Or browse other accommodation in Bihac

Extreme rafting is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina © Veronika Kovalenko/Shutterstock

Banja Luka is the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and is known for its charming blend of traditional and modern culture. The city is home to numerous historical sites, including the medieval Kastel Fortress and the Ferhat Pasha Mosque. Visitors can also explore the city's vibrant markets and sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes. Exploring Banja Luka is one of the best things to do in Bosnia & Herzegovina — and one of the best things to do in Europe.

Related articles from the blog

Mostar may seem underwhelming at first, but as you descend into the Old Town, you'll find a special place with rushing streams, steep cobblestoned streets, and the turquoise-blue Neretva River with its Old Bridge.

Most tourists visit on a day trip, but staying the night is recommended to avoid crowds, and the best times to visit are early morning or early evening. Visiting this lovely town is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Where to stay in Mostar

• For a stay near the Old Bridge: Hotel Kriva Ćuprija
• For a stay with a spa and more: Hotel Mepas
• Or browse other great accommodation in Mostar

Visiting Mostar is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina © Shutterstock

Jajce is a charming town, known for its adorable name and picturesque setting. The town is home to the stunning Pliva Waterfall and the 14th-century Jajce Castle, which was once the seat of Bosnian kings. The town also boasts impressive 21m-high waterfalls. This is a great place to explore while on your trip through Eastern Europe .

The beautiful waterfalls of Jajce © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Bosnia-Herzegovina and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

The southernmost region of the Dinaric Alps extends from Albania to Slovenia and encompasses these remote mountains. To best explore this range, trekking around Valbona Valley is recommended. Although the journey from the capital is lengthy, involving a ferry crossing on Lake Koman, the breathtaking mountain scenery makes it entirely worthwhile.

Tara Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in the western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The canyon is home to the Tara River, which is considered one of the cleanest rivers in Europe. Visitors can enjoy rafting, kayaking, hiking, and fishing in the canyon.

Sarajevo is often compared to a Slavic mini-Istanbul due to its mosques, bazaars, and kebab restaurants in the Old Town's Baščaršija. It is also often considered one of the coolest cities in the Balkans . The scars of the 1990s war can still be seen in burnt-out buildings. However, Sarajevans are resilient and welcoming, often offering coffee and making new friends.

Sarajevo is the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

Where to stay in Sarajevo:

• For a stay on the river: Guesthouse Bebek
• For a modern stay: River Walk Sarajevo
• Or take a look at other accommodation in Sarajevo

Seeing Sarajevo is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina © Shutterstock

Kravice Falls is a series of waterfalls located near the city of Ljubuski. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and are a popular spot for swimming and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the nearby caves and canyons.

The nearby village of Pocitelj is known for its traditional feel and fifteenth-century remnants, including a citadel and a mosque. Visiting this area is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Rakitnica Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The canyon is home to numerous waterfalls, caves, and rock formations that are popular with hikers and adventure seekers. The canyon is also home to a wide range of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and eagles.

Trebinje , nestled in Herzegovina's southern tip, is Republika Srpska's most attractive town and an ideal starting or ending point for exploring the region. It is best known for the Arslanagić Bridge, a sixteenth-century stone bridge located just a ten-minute walk from the town centre. The Old Town is charming with its winding streets and plenty of cafes.

Visitors should also take time to explore the hilltop monasteries, including the fourteenth-century Tvrdoš, which offers stunning views of the surroundings.

Where to stay in Trebinje

• For pet-friendly accommodation: SL Industry Hotel
• For a stay in a beautifully restored building: Hotel Platani
• Or see other great accommodation in Trebinje

One of the many iconic bridges of Bosnia and Herzegovina © Mykhailo Brodskyi/Shutterstock

Bosnia and Herzegovina's cuisine is heavily influenced by centuries of Ottoman rule. Local food joints sell čevapčići, grilled meat rissoles served with somun and chopped onion, and burek, greasy pastries filled with meat, spinach, cheese, pumpkin, or potato. Sarajevo is famous for its burek. Soups, vegetables stuffed with mincemeat, salads, and sweets such as baklava and tufahije are also widely available.

This list could truly go on. There are countless fantastic things to do in Bosnia & Herzegovina . Ready to start planning your trip? Check out the Rough Guide to Europe on a Budget.

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Bosnia & Herzegovina without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.

Top image: Old town of Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, with Stari Most bridge, Neretva river and old mosques © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

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TRAVEL GUIDE: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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B osnia and Herzegovina is a popular tourist destination for its century-old historical towns, breathtaking nature, thrilling destinations, and diverse religious culture. If you are looking for the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we got you covered.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina to add up to your list.

Situated at the Lašva valley is the pre-15th century town and municipality of Travnik. It is popular with tourists for its well-preserved Ottoman period structures of several mosques, traditional residences, and the only town with two clock towers known as Sahat Kula.

Since Travnik is situated at one of the highest peaks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mt. Vlasic Has become its major tourist attraction, perfect for activities such as hiking, sledding, and skiing.

2. Sarajevo

Often called the “Jerusalem of Europe, Sarajevo is the capital and the biggest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city was a 15th-century Ottoman citadel that developed into a modern city involved in entertainment, fashion, and arts.

Established in the 1450s during the Ottoman period, Sarajevo is famous for its cultural, religious, historical, and winter sports. Some of the popular tourist destinations include the Roman Bridge, Sarajevo Cathedral, and Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.

3. Pocitelj, Capljina

For an off-the-beaten path, head to the historic village of Pocitelj at the municipality of Capljina. The village was estimated to be established as early as 1383 as a fortified town and has become a famous destination for tourists who are into hiking.

Hike the stairs to reach the top and enjoy the scenic view of the village and Neretva River. Pocitelj historical sites include the Kula, Sahat Kula, Hajji Alija, and Gavrankapetanovic house.

4. Jahorina

The mountain of Jahorina is one of the most visited spots in Bosnia and Herzegovina for tourist who loves to go skiing. Jahorina is part of the Dinaric Alps and has the second-highest mountain in Sarajevo, Mount Trebevic with Sjeniste as its highest peak.

Located at the slopes of Jahorina, the Jahorina ski resort ( rates ) was the site of women’s alpine skiing for the 1984 Winter Olympics. Today, the resort offers snowboarding, alpine skiing, sledding, and hiking.

5. Banja Luka

A charming green city is known for its trees, gardens, parks, boulevards, and Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman architecture; the Banja Luka is the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Banja Luka is located at the Vrbas River and also the largest city of Republika Srpska.

Some of the famous tourist spots in Banja Luka include Gospodska Street, Kastel Fortress, and the Temple of Christ the Saviour.

6. Kravica Waterfall

Kravica Waterfall is an enchanting gem of nature and a national reserve perfect for a summer destination. Situated on the Trebižat River, the massive tufa cascade has become a popular spot for swimming and picnic.

There are local cafes, a picnic area, a rope swing, campsite, and it offers grilled dishes during the high season.

The town of Jajce is known to tourists for its 2nd century AD temple, the Jajce Mithraeum, as one of the well-preserved ancient structures in Europe. The temple is also considered a National Monument of Bosnia and Herzegovina, where tourists can see through protective glass walls and can be seen up close by reaching thru the Ethnological Museum of Jajce.

Some of the must-visit spots in Jajce include the AVNOJ Museum, Ruins of the Orthodox Monastery, and the 22-meter waterfall.

It is famous for its 16th century Ottoman bridge known as the Mostar Bridge or Old Bridge, located at the Neretva River, the 5th largest city. Mostar is famous for its Bosnian history. Established in 1452, the historic city of Mostar has been previously occupied by the Romans, Ottoman Empire, and Austrian-Hungarian.

Some of the must-visit spots in Mostar include the Bishop’s Ordinariate, Hamam, Sahat-kula, Tara, and Halebija Towers.

9. Una National Park

Another enchanting nature reserve that tourists can enjoy in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Una National Park. If you are up for a nature-tripping adventure, the stunning waterfall and turquoise clear water of Martin Brod and Una’s largest waterfall, the Strbacki Buk, are a must-see.

The site is the largest national park of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offering various activities to visitors such as hiking, camping, fishing, rafting, and jumping off from the city bridges.

10. Blidinje Nature Park

Located at the center of Dinaric Alps at the Blidinje plateau, the Blidinje Nature Park has a breathtaking nature capturing the heart of tourists. To explore Herzegovina as it was centuries ago, tourists can go cycling or hike through the valley with a lake, surrounded by mountain peaks.

Some of the famous spots in the nature park include Blidinje Lake, Masna Luka, and Hajducka vrata.

• Top 10 Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cultural Places
• 12 Places in Bosnia and Herzegovina you must visit, World of Wanderlust

Where to stay: List of Best Hotels in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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The 10 best places to visit in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Posted by: Balkan Incoming on 10/04/2021 in Destinations 334 views 2

Warm-hearted people. Natural abundance. Big historical heritage. Food that blows your mind. Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Check out our suggestion of the 10 best places to visit while there.

A place that takes most by the surprise. Ancient walls, hypnotizing sceneries, views like from postcards will make you promise to come here again! Walking through Mostar is a walk through the past times, imagining how it used to live in this magnificent city.

The core landmark of this city is Old Bridge (Stari Most) beautiful, also part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. This bridge has connections with the origin of the name of this very old city. Bridge or ’’Most’’ in Bosnian, and guardians of the bridges in ancient times in Bosnian is ’’Mostari’’. Enjoy walking around this city that still keeps its identity as a multi-ethnic community.

Una National Park 

In the northern part of the country queen of the rivers is settled. In order to understand why the Una river is the queen among the rivers of Bosnia, you’ll have to visit it! The story of the Una river is certainly special, written with emerald color that runs through deep canyons and together with Unac and Krka rivers, makes a combination of preserved natural landscapes of exceptional beauty – Una National Park .

As Bosnia and Herzegovina are known for their magnificent rivers, the logical conclusion is that this is a country of the most stunning waterfalls in Europe. White water rapids together with waterfalls enhance the scenic beauty of the Una National Park. The largest and perhaps the most beautiful one – Štrbački buk waterfall (23,5 m high) is located on the Una river. Exactly from this waterfall, many rafting and kayak tours are performed from where we continue to sail over numerous waterfalls and mighty rapids.

The name ’’Una’’ in Latin stands for ’’one and only’’ and it perfectly describes this Bosnian river – specific and unpredictable in its flow.

Sarajevo 

When we think of Sarajevo , there are so many things that first pop up in our mind, like the Jerusalem of Europe, Baščaršija – a name of one very magical street (one pretty hard word to pronounce even for people from Balkans), overwhelming food, spectacular architecture, cold winters, east on the west of Balkans…and many more.

The capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina has a very special vibe and manner of living, it can hypnotize you without realizing it. You will just melt into the surroundings, into its streets, where East and West become one for centuries.

While you stroll downtown, through Baščaršija and Old Bazar you may feel like that you are in Istanbul or that you travel a couple of centuries back in time, but then just when you get used to that feeling you will step on the part where the border between Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian empire was, you’ll see the difference among the shops and buildings around you. It is a spot in Sarajevo where two different civilizations touch and connect. When you stand on it, on one side you will have the Ottoman – Eastern Sarajevo and if you turn around, you will look at the Austro-Hungarian – Western Sarajevo. It’s like architectural fusion!

Kravice Waterfalls

Waterfall Kravice represents the incredible natural wonder of Bosnia & Herzegovina. As soon as you step foot near waterfalls you will be pleased to hear waters and rapids noise. Waterfalls are perfectly hidden from the eyes of the public and once when you lay your eyes on them, you will never forget their enchanting beauty. We guarantee this is one of the most beautiful places where you’ve been before and they are charming in every season.

An absolute must-see in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Blagaj and its incredible and strong spring of river Buna where mystical meets stunning. This city is usually described like it’s from a fairy tale. A small town Blagaj is nominated for the UNESCO World Heritage list, mainly because of its position at the source of the Buna river and because of the mystical Dervish monastery. This 600 years old monastery, referred to as Tekija, is situated on a 200 m high cliff. The monastery is one of its kind, constructed in the classical Baroque style with elements of Mediterranean and Ottoman architecture.

Sutjeska National Park

National Park Sutjeska in Bosnia hides numerous natural rarities, such as the last jungle in Europe called Perućica hidden in its wildness, astonishing mountain Zelengora with many glacial lakes, then the highest mountain peak of Bosnia – Maglić. Being still undiscovered by masses, Mt. Maglić is still undiscovered by masses and such is a perfect hideaway for passionate mountaineers and hikers.

If you are appealed to mountain hiking you should definitely try conquering Maglić and it will reward you with stupendous panoramas. For its panorama is deserved its location on the border with Montenegro, surrounded by  Sutjeska river on the north and west, mountains Volujak and Bioč on the south, and Puva and Drina rivers on the east. Wherever you turn around is marvelous nature!

Talking about wonders, one of them for sure is Perućica on Mountain Zelengora – the last preserved rainforest in Europe. Settled near the border with Montenegro Perućica is one of the two remaining primeval forests in Europe, but the oldest and the largest one in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Some parts of the forest are completely inaccessible, due to highly dense forest, a great number of endemic and rare species live in it. There are the trees here are more than 300 years old.

Jahorina Olympic Mountain

A great proof that Bosnia & Herzegovina is a land of great mountains is a fact that in 1984. Sarajevo was chosen to host the winter Olympic games, since its vicinity to the most popular mountains in B&H: Jahorina, Bjelašnica, Igman, and Trebević. All of them are only half an hour away from the capital city, and today they have the first-class slopes, the best accommodation & renting capacities, as well as après skiing activities. Since then, Sarajevo lives that Olympic glory, despite turbulences that hit the country in the 1990s.

Irresistibly relaxed and cozy, yet modern and cosmopolitan city. Banja Luka, being the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the capital of the Republic of Srpska it is a perfect destination in the Balkans. When in this city, you will inevitably notice a mixture of historical and cultural heritage.

Perfect place to feel the heartbeat of Banja Luka and its vibe, there is no better place than Gospodska street in the city center. Maybe for a moment, you will think you are in Vienna, because the facades of buildings in this street reflect the real Austrian influence, as they remind you of being in one of the European capitals.

Lukomir 

Did you ever wonder how life in remote mountainous villages in Europe used to look like 2 centuries ago? We think the perfect way to find that out is to visit Lukomir Village, the most isolated but still inhabited place in the Balkans.  

The village is settled at almost 1.500 m and such represents the highest permanent settlement in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Lukomir is only 54 km from Sarajevo and it is like a living ethnological museum, where most of the houses are more than 200 years old. Customs of nomadic tribes in this village are still practiced.

Jajce city and its waterfalls

Our first impression of Jajce city is that no other city in Bosnia and Herzegovina can gather so many cultural layers and so many architectural styles in a place so small. This calm and charming town, settled in the heart of the country Bosnia, is blessed with an abundance of water settings. The most famous is Pliva Waterfall.

Jajce is simply a lovely town and its name (Jajce – diminutive form of the word egg) comes from the shape of a hill settled above the old town, with an impressive medieval citadel on top of the hill. Citadel used to be the best fortified and the biggest one, it even kept resisting the Ottoman empire after the rest of the country was conquered.

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Often overlooked because the country’s name is still synonymous with the Yugoslavian War of the 1990s, Bosnia & Herzegovina deserves your attention. It’s one of the most underrated destinations in Europe .

Not a lot of people backpack or travel through the country but it is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Three major religions (Islam, Roman Catholic, and Serbian Orthodox) all come together in this small area to form a vibrant blend of cultures. You’ll hear the Muslim call to prayer over the minarets one minute, and church bells ringing from a nearby church the next.

Watch skilled divers jump from the iconic bridge in Mostar, enjoy some hookah at one of Sarajevo’s sidewalk cafes, take a dip in the turquoise pools below the cascading Kravica Falls, or raft down the Tara Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe.

The country (especially the capital) has become more popular in recent years thanks to increasing tourism in the region and cheaper prices but you can still catch it before the big crowds come!

This travel guide to Bosnia & Herzegovina will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this off-the-beaten-path destination!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Bosnia & Herzegovina

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Bosnia & Herzegovina

1. See Sarajevo

Bosnia’s capital has a distinct “east meets west” vibe. Perched alongside the Miljacka River and surrounded by mountains, the city is both scenic and historic. It is well-known for its cultural diversity and is sometimes referred to as the Jerusalem of Europe; within the city you can sometimes find a mosque, a catholic church, and a synagogue all within a few blocks. Wander the colorful Bascarsija Square for excellent people-watching, and while you’re there visit the iconic Sebilj Fountain. This Ottoman-style wooden fountain was originally built in 1753 and relocated in 1891. Local legend claims that if you drink from the fountain, you will always return to Sarajevo. Enjoy some hookah, take the cable car to the top of Mount Trebevic for incredible views, and visit the Bašcaršija historic market for some snacks and more people-watching.

2. Check out Mostar

Mostar is a medieval city best known for its 16th-century bridge, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, straddling the Neretva river. The bridge is constructed in the Ottoman style, and on warm days you will often spot locals jumping off into the river. Mostar’s name comes from the word mostari , which translates to bridge keeper (the original bridge was crucial to an important trade route). Strolling through Mostar is like traveling back in time, with its picturesque cobblestone streets and incredible architecture. Explore this historic town and see the ancient Ottoman homes and panoramic views from the local mosque. It’s one of the best cities in the country.

3. Visit the Pliva Lakes

The Pliva Lakes are two emerald lakes surrounded by wooded mountains, just outside Jajce. The area is home to the famous Pliva watermills, unique wooden watermills that were traditionally used to grind wheat. With rivers, waterfalls, and easy bike paths, outdoor lovers flock here to swim, paddle, bike, and explore. Surrounded by amenities like picnic tables, fire pits, kayak rentals, cafes, and playgrounds, the lakes are an ideal place to enjoy a day surrounded by nature. The lakes are formed from the widening Pliva River, which joins the Vrbas River and empties over the 22-meter (72-foot) Pliva Waterfall. For something unique, plan your visit to the annual waterfall jumping competition held here each August.

4. Marvel at the Kravica Waterfall

These marvelous cascades drop 25 meters (82 feet) into a bright emerald pool. During the springtime, the forests surrounding the pool and waterfall blossom into lush greenery, giving the area an oasis-like appearance. You can spend the day splashing in the swimming hole and swinging from the rope swing. Afterward, there’s a little café next to the water where you can grab a snack or a cold beer. Admission is 20 BAM, and swimming is allowed. To see the falls as part of a day trip from Mostar or Dubrovnik costs around 70 BAM.

5. Explore Trebinje

Other things to see and do in bosnia & herzegovina, 1. ostrožac fortress.

This Gothic castle in the Una Valley is one of Bosnia’s most photogenic landmarks thanks to its brick torrents and stone wall running along the valley’s edge. Ostrožac has plenty to explore within its grounds, including a sculpture garden, ramparts, towers, and a manor house dating back to 1286. You can only visit the castle during the summer. Admission is 4 BAM.

2. Walk the Tunnel of Hope

Surrounded by Bosnian-Serb forces, Sarajevo had just one link with the outside world from 1992–1995: an 800-meter long (2,624-feet), 1-meter (3-feet) wide, 1.6-meter (5-feet) high tunnel connecting two houses on opposite sides of the airport runway. Eventually, the tunnel was equipped with rails to transport food and supplies. You can walk through part of the tunnel from the house at the western entrance while learning about the story of the siege through informational displays and videos. It’s an incredibly moving experience. The tunnel is open 9am-5pm daily and admission is 10 BAM.

3. Visit the National Museum of Bosnia & Herzegovina

The National Museum of Bosnia & Herzegovina in Sarajevo houses the Sarajevo Haggadah (a Jewish text) illuminated manuscript, which contains the illustrated text of the Passover Haggadah that goes with the Passover Seder. It’s one of the oldest Haggadah in the world, dating from 1350 and originating in Barcelona. In addition to Greek pottery and Roman mosaics, this museum is also home to a collection of stecci (medieval tombstones found scattered around the country). They started appearing in the 12th century for various Christian churches like the Bosnian Church, and most of them are inscribed with the extinct Bosnian Cyrillic alphabet. The entrance to the museum is 8 BAM.

4. See the Mehmed Pasha Sokolovic Bridge

Mehmed Pasha Sokolovic Bridge was built in Višegrad in 1571 and was designed by Mimar Sinan, the famous chief architect for the Ottoman Empire. He was the master builder behind both the Sehzade Mosque and the Süleymaniye Mosque in Istanbul, and this 11-arch bridge is the only confirmed work he completed in Bosnia & Herzegovina. It stretches 179 meters (587 feet) across the Drina River, and although it’s now closed to traffic, you can still appreciate its perfectly symmetrical beauty from the land.

5. See the watermills of Jajce

Jajce is known as the “city of falling water” thanks to its giant waterfall that connects the rivers Pliva and Vrbas. During the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire (1867-1918), the small wooden huts stood on stilts over the gushing water used to ground local farmers’ wheat into flour. You can’t go inside, but you can see the huts up close as you explore.

6. Take a tour of Tito’s Bunker

On the bank of the river Neretva, just outside of Konjic and hidden behind a seemingly normal house, the once-forgotten bunker was built under the command of the Yugoslav revolutionary Josip Tito. It was kept secret for many years — even the construction workers were blindfolded until they arrived on site. The bunker cost billions of dollars to build and is now home to a contemporary art biennial called D-0 ARK Underground. You can only visit as a part of a guided tour with Visit Konjic, which costs 22 BAM.

7. See the Bosnian Pyramids

Located near Visoko, the Bosnian Pyramids are a set of four pyramids dating back 12,000 years ago that have perfect cardinal alignment, some reaching heights of 220 meters (721 feet). While most of the scientific community has debunked the theory that an ancient civilization built these structures, it’s a pretty amazing coincidence that they’re so aligned with the north. There are no official tours, so you’re free to explore on your own.

8. Visit Galerija 11/07/95

One of the most tragic events of the Yugoslavian War was the Srebrenica massacre, the largest genocide since World War II carried out by Bosnian Serb forces. With 8,372 victims, the gallery stands as a memorial to those that lost their life while also sharing survivor stories. It’s a powerful exhibition made up of photography, video footage, and audio testimonies. Admission is 12 BAM. An audio guide costs 3 BAM and a tour is 4 BAM.

9. Go whitewater rafting

Whitewater rafting on the Tara River Canyon, the deepest canyon in Europe, is one of the most exciting things to do in the country as you tackle rapids and fast-flowing water. Other than navigating 25 kilometers (15 miles) of white water, your guide will take you to waterfalls, springs, and swimming holes. I recommend Rafting Center Drina Tara. Their full-day tour costs 140 BAM and ends with a delicious traditional dinner of homemade goat pies, soup, grilled lamb, and drinks.

Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostel dorms start at around 19 BAM per night for an 8-10-bed dorm while a bed in a 4-6 person dorm costs closer to 28 BAM. For a private room, expect to pay at least 45-63 BAM per night for a twin.

Budget hotels in bigger cities (like Mostar and Sarajevo) cost around 63 BAM per night for a double or twin. In the more rural areas, you’ll find rooms for as low as 35 BAM.

Airbnb is another affordable option, with private rooms starting around 30 BAM per night while a full home or apartment costs at least 40 BAM (though prices average double that or more).

For anyone traveling with a tent, wild camping on public land is legal in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Additionally, there are campsites available throughout the country. Tent plots cost about 10.50 BAM per person.

Food – Traditional food in Bosnia & Herzegovina is very cheap and filling (and meat-heavy). Beef and lamb are popular staples, and influences from the Middle East and the Mediterranean are common. Sarma (meat and rice in pickled cabbage leaves), cevapi (a pita filled with cream and sausage), and burek (a flaky pastry with meat, cheese, and spinach) are some of the popular traditional choices. Common ingredients include potatoes, tomatoes, onions, garlic, cabbage, and plums.

You can get plates of cevapi or burek for about 7 BAM. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs about 15 BAM and you can expect to pay about 3 BAM for a beer. Dinner at a fancy restaurant (including Western restaurants) costs about 35 BAM for an appetizer, main, and dessert.

For comparison, fast food like McDonald’s is about 9 BAM for a combo meal.

If you are planning to cook your own food, a week’s worth of groceries costs around 45-65 BAM. This gets you basic staples like rice, seasonal produce, and some meat.

Backpacking Bosnia & Herzegovina Suggested Budgets

If you are backpacking in Bosnia & Herzegovina, my suggested budget is 85 BAM per day. This assumes you’re staying in a hostel dorm, cooking your meals, sticking to mostly free activities (like free walking tours and hiking), and using public transportation to get around.

A mid-range budget of about 160 BAM covers staying in an Airbnb, eating out for all your meals at cheap local places, enjoying a few drinks, taking the occasional taxi, and doing more paid activities like museum visits or rafting.

On a “luxury” budget of 275 BAM per day or more, you will stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, enjoy lots of drinks, take more taxis or rent a car, and do all the tours you desire. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BAM.

Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Bosnia & Herzegovina, like most of the region, is very budget-friendly. You’ll be able to eat, drink, and stay in comfortable accommodations without breaking the bank too much. However, I always love saving money when I can so here are some tips to help you save money when you visit:

• Do a free walking tour – Both Sarajevo and Mostar have free walking tours available. They’re a great way to get familiar with the city and the culture. Just be sure to tip your guide at the end!
• Wild camp – If you really want to save money in Bosnia & Herzegovina, bring your tent. You can pitch your tent on public land throughout Bosnia & Herzegovina.
• Cook your own meals – Many hostels here include kitchen facilities, so if you want to save money, cook your own meals. It’s not glamorous but it’s cheap!
• Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a great way to not only save money but to meet a knowledgeable local. Just make sure to send your requests early as there are not a ton of hosts here.
• Walk everywhere – All of the major cities in Bosnia & Herzegovina are walkable, so skip the public transportation if you want to save a few extra dollars.
• Enjoy the free spaces – There are plenty of free parks as well as many free hiking trails around the country. Save your budget and enjoy the outdoors!
• Drink the tap water – Tap water within the cities is safe to drink, but not in the rural areas. Pick up a LifeStraw (a water bottle with a purifier) so you can cut down on your use of plastic bottles while saving money in the process.

Where to Stay in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Like many other countries in this part of Europe, Bosnia & Herzegovina only has hostel accommodation in the cities. In the smaller less popular areas, you will find B&B style accommodation or campsites. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Bosnia & Herzegovina:

• Hostel Kucha (Sarajevo)
• Balkan Han Hostel (Sarajevo)
• Hostel Franz Ferdinand (Sarajevo)
• Villa Cardak (Mostar)
• Rooms Goa Mostar (Mostar)
• The Red Door Hostel Trebinje (Trebinje)

How to Get Around Bosnia & Herzegovina

Public transportation – Most towns in Bosnia & Herzegovina are walkable. While public transportation prices vary by city, you can expect to pay around 2 BAM for a one-way ticket on buses, trams, or trolleybuses.

Taxi – If you need to take a taxi, prices start at about 3 BAM and cost about 1.60 BAM for every additional kilometer. While affordable, they do add up so skip them if you can.

Bus – There is an extensive network of long-distance intercity and international buses. Between towns, it’s normally easy enough to wave down any bus. Reservations are sometimes necessary for overnight routes or at peak holiday times but not during the day. The biggest companies include:

• Centrotrans

A bus from Sarajevo to Mostar takes 2.5 hours and costs around 11 BAM, while Sarajevo to Trebinje takes nearly 10 hours and is about 40 BAM. Mostar to Jajce is a 4.5-hour journey and costs about 27 BAM. Try to book a day in advance when possible as seats do fill up quickly in the summer season.

It is worth noting that if you buy a round trip with the same company, you can save yourself up to 60% compared to buying two single tickets. Also, if you need to put luggage in the hold, companies will often charge you an additional 2-4 BAM. (It’s common in this region to charge for the luggage hold.)

Train – Trains do operate in Bosnia & Herzegovina, however, they are outdated and extremely slow. I do not recommend using them. Take the bus instead.

Flying – No budget airlines offer domestic flights within Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Car rental – Car rentals can be found for around 40 BAM per day for a multi-day rental. Renters must be at least 21 years old and have an International Driving Permit (IDP). For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Bosnia & Herzegovina

In general, May through to October is the best time to visit Bosnia & Herzegovina as these are the warmest months. The temperature hovers around 31°C (87°F) and rarely drops below 17°C (62°F).

Even in the summer months, Bosnia & Herzegovina doesn’t get a ton of tourism traffic. A lot of people will take a day trip to Mostar from Croatia, but you don’t have to worry too much about overcrowding in the rest of the country.

Unlike other Mediterranean countries, Bosnia & Herzegovina doesn’t have a whole lot of coastal areas to enjoy. If you’re here mostly for hiking or sightseeing, the cooler spring/fall temperatures might suit you better.

Winters here can be harsh and they often last from November to March. Temperatures often drop below freezing, and snowfall is common. I’d skip a winter visit.

How to Stay Safe in Bosnia & Herzegovina

In Bosnia & Herzegovina, violent crime against tourists is rare. However, scams and pick-pocketing are common, usually on public transport and in the cities and especially around high-traffic areas in Sarajevo. Always keep an eye on your stuff and only take the cash you need for the day. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here.

If you want to go hiking, it’s essential you stick to marked trails only. Landmines can still be found here from the war so always stick to the trail.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

If you experience an emergency, dial 122 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Europe and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hotels in Florence

The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid

The 6 Best Hotels in Vienna

The Best Walking Tours in Barcelona

How to Be a Digital Nomad in Europe

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

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19 Most Amazing Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Last Updated: December 19, 2023

Bosnia has something for everyone and you will be surprised to learn that there are so many incredible places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Whether you are looking for a cultural experience in Sarajevo, want to stroll the colourful Old bazaar of Mostar, hike in nature parks, enjoy water rafting, discover historic old towns and mysterious pyramids or just eat the best cevapi in the Balkans – I guarantee you will have an amazing time in Bosnia.

Bosnia and Herzegovina will surprise you. A country of rich and dramatic history and vibrant culture is also one of the greenest countries I have ever visited.

There are many incredible attractions in Bosnia which are still very much out of the beaten path. Although many travellers just stop by Sarajevo and Mostar and move on to neighbouring Croatia or Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina is so much more than those two cities. 

In this article, you will learn about all the most incredible places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina and I urge you to dedicate more time to Bosnia.

Bosnia landscapes will take your breath away, and the kindness of people will warm your heart. It is still one of the most affordable countries to visit in Europe, but it’s growing fast as a tourist destination and travelling around Bosnia is very easy. 

Bosnia is also a very safe country to visit. I felt as safe walking around any place in Bosnia as I would at home, in Poland. You can get to many interesting sights and cities in Bosnia by bus or train often within a couple of hours so even if you cannot spend more time in the country you visit many beautiful places like Blagaj, Konjic or Jajce on a day trip too.

So if you decided to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina and looking for a complete list of the most amazing places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, I got you covered.

Table of Contents

Of course, I had to start this list of the best places to visit in Bosnia with Sarajevo. It is not only the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is the one place in the country you simply cannot miss. 

In order to truly understand the culture and the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is a must !

The city is perhaps best known for its rich and diverse heritage, shaped by centuries of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. Known as the Jerusalem of Europe , Sarajevo is diverse, multicultural and vibrant. The city’s diverse religious landscape is evident in its numerous mosques, churches, and synagogues, showcasing its legacy as a place where different faiths coexist.

You will find multiple remnants of Sarajevo’s Ottoman past and the Old Town and Bazaar known as Bascarsija is just magical! Sarajevo is a place where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria took place which triggered the start of World War I. But also the city was an under the longest siege by Bosnian Serb forces which lasted nearly four years. This left deep scars on the city which are still visible until this day. 

This unique blend of cultures is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and way of life, making Sarajevo one of the most unique cities in Europe and probably the best things to do in Bosnia.

Some of the most popular attractions in Sarajevo include:

• Bascarsija – Old Town and Bazaar
• Sebilj Fountain – An ornate wooden fountain and a true symbol of Sarajevo. Maybe one of the most famous fountains in this part of the world
• Latin Bridge – A place of the assassination of Franz Ferdinand
• Sarajevo War Tunnel (Tunnel of Hope) – An underground passage constructed during the Siege of Sarajevo to provide a lifeline for the city’s inhabitants.857
• Yellow Fortress – The best sunset spot in Sarajevo
• Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque – One of Sarajevo’s most iconic landmarks
• Sarajevo Cable Car and Trebević Mountain – Great way to enjoy nature and get a different perspective of Sarajevo

Are you wondering where to stay in Sarajevo? Read my complete guide to all the best areas and most recommended accommodation options in Sarajevo and if you are travelling on a budget, read this post about the 5 most epic hostels in Sarajevo . 

Mostar is the second most popular city to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina and my personal favourite. It is definitely a tight competition with Sarajevo as one of the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

I spent a total of 10 days in Mostar . Although at first, it doesn’t look like there are many things to do in Mostar apart from visiting the Mostar Bridge and an Old Town , there is much more to the town.

Mostar is located in the lush Herzegovina region and there are incredible day tours you could take from Mostar . The town itself is also a wonderful place to stay for a few days and relax. You will find plenty of great restaurants, bars and cafes, great shopping and a very relaxed, almost Mediterranean vibe. 

The Old Town itself is stunning. A true feast for the senses. I recommend staying for at least one night to soak in the evening atmosphere, have a meal in the riverside restaurant and see the bridge and the bazaar at night!

The most popular attractions in Mostar include:

• Stari Most (Old Bridge) – The 16th-century Ottoman bridge and the most famous symbol of Mostar. The bridge was destroyed during the Bosnian War but was meticulously reconstructed, preserving its historical significance.
• Old Bazaar (Bazar Kujundžiluk) – A bustling area filled with cobblestone streets, traditional shops, workshops, cafes, and restaurants. 
• Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque – great for panoramic views of the Old Bridge and the surrounding area.
• Museum of War and Genocide Victims – Offers insight into the tragic events of the Bosnian War, particularly focusing on the suffering endured by the people of Mostar.

Blagaj is a small town near  Mostar , famous for the   Dervish Monastery – Blagaj Tekija built into the rock and situated at the source of the Buna River,  It’s often visited as part of an organised tour that includes the Kravice waterfalls, Pocitelj and of course Blagaj – the so-called Herzegovina tour .

But you can also easily get to Blagaj by public transport . Blagaj is the best day trip from Mostar that can be done without the tour and is definitely worth visiting!

The Buna River itself is also quite unusual.   The source of the Buna River is a strong karst spring, which means that the river flows partially underground. Karst rivers often disappear underground and then reappear in different places. The water in these rivers is usually very clear and clean because it flows through the rocks and acts like a natural filter.

Blagaj Tekke (also called Tekija) was built over 600 years ago with elements of Ottoman architecture and in Mediterranean style and looks almost the same today as it did then.

It was the home of dervish monks, also known as Sufi dervishes,  who belong to a mystical branch of Islam called Sufism. They’re known for their devotion to spirituality, their pursuit of inner experiences and their various forms of physical and spiritual discipline, but especially for the praise chanting and dervish whirling practised by the Mevlevi order in Turkey.

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Pocitelj is another very popular day trip from Mostar but it can also be visited on its own. 

Počitelj, a small stone village dating back to medieval times is often considered an open-air museum. Often referred to as an open-air museum, this town will transport you to the past. The village is situated on a hill and an ancient stone castle at the top offers a great panoramic view, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Fascinatingly, some of the historic stone houses are still inhabited to this day.

Počitelj can be easily seen in a couple of hours so if you drive you can combine it with visiting Blagaj or Kravice waterfalls or you can opt for a combined tour like this Herzegovina Tour. 

Kravice Waterfalls

Kravice Waterfalls is one of the most popular places to visit in Bosnia, especially on a day tour from Mostar .

These falls, located about 40 kilometres away from Mostar, stand tall at an impressive 25 meters, creating a vast and serene pool that’s just perfect for unwinding and taking a dip.

The history of the Kravica Waterfalls is a story of millions of years, shaped by the complicated dance of tectonic shifts and the gradual rise of the limestone plateau through which the Trebizat River flows.

In summer, the water level drops, providing an inviting setting for a refreshing dip. It’s a common sight to witness visitors bringing along their picnic baskets and setting up camp for a whole day. The water in Kravica remains refreshingly cool and never exceeds 20 degrees. This is because the source of the river Krebizat, which feeds these waterfalls, is only 30 kilometres uphill.

The best way to visit Kravica is on an organised day tour but you can of course drive and spend a whole day at this spectacular Bosnia attraction.

Although Konjic can be visited on a day tour from Mostar or Sarajevo, you can also spend a couple of days there especially if you are into adventure water sports. 

Konjic is slowly becoming the adventure capital of Herzegovina and is an intriguing destination well worth visiting.

Konjic is often visited for one very unique attraction: the Tito Nuclear Bunker. This bunker was built in secret between 1953 and 1979 with the purpose of safeguarding Yugoslavia’s esteemed leader, Tito, his family, and trusted allies during the nuclear war scare that followed his falling out with Stalin.

Although the  Tito Bunker Guided Tour  is a popular attraction for visitors, Konjic has much more to offer.

Konjic lives up to its image of an adventure destination  and offers a variety of outdoor activities.  White water rafting  is a highlight in the area and the town offers numerous opportunities for adventure seekers. From  trekking  and  cycling  routes to  canyoning  and  hydrospeed  (rafting on a small board), adrenaline enthusiasts will find plenty to indulge in.

Banja Luka was the first town I visited in Bosnia and Herzegovina and it was an excellent introduction to the country. Often skipped by travellers, Banja Luka isn’t often added to the list of best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it should be. 

Banja Luka is the second largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the capital of the entity Republika Srpska.

It lies on the banks of the river Vrbas and is an amazingly green city for its size. The parks and paths along the river are a true delight!

Banja Luka’s history reaches far back into the past, with traces of human settlement dating from ancient times to prehistoric times. Fascinatingly, despite its remarkable landmarks and attractions, the city remains untouched by tourism. It’s authentic and genuine.

If you’re looking for a great place to experience the everyday life of multicultural and multi-religious Bosnia and Herzegovina and learn about the history of the region in a city surrounded by the green, lush hills of Krajina region, Banja Luka is definitely worth visiting

Banja Luka features a few attractions and landmarks really worth visiting:

• Kastel Fortress – A Fortress dating back to Roman times and offering a wonderful view of the city and the Vrbas River.
• Christ the Savior Cathedral – Beautiful Serbian Orthodox cathedral. One of the largest in the Balkans.
• Gospodska Street – The main pedestrian street of Banja Luka lined with shops, cafes, and historical buildings.
• Ferhadija Mosque – A stunning piece of Islamic architecture and a testament to the city’s multi-religious history.
• Vrbas River – With several parks and cafes along the riverfront, a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery

Jajce is a picturesque town located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is known for its rich history, stunning natural landscapes and unique architectural heritage. When I got off the bus in Jajce and looked around, I was totally mesmerised by the views and the surrounding landscapes!

The most popular attraction in Jajce and the main reason for many travellers to visit Jajce is the magnificent Pliva Waterfall. It is the only waterfall in the world located right in the centre of town. On a sunny day (or any day, really), the shimmering waterfall with the beautiful old town in the background provides a beautiful postcard-perfect view.

Jajce boasts a history that spans centuries and has played an important role in the region’s past.

The oldest monument found in Jajce, the Mithraeum , dates back to the 2nd century AD and a large mediaeval fortress overlooking the town was once the seat of the Bosnian kings.

The town’s most famous historical event is the Second Session of the National Liberation Army of Yugoslavia in 1943, at which Josip Broz Tito announced the founding of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

But the real attraction of the city is the surrounding landscapes and the beautiful walks you can take.

Besides the Pliva Waterfall, there are many other natural wonders in the vicinity of the town, such as the nearby Pliva lakes or the historic water mills (Mlinčići).

Travnik is a popular stopover on the way from Jajce to Sarajevo and can be also seen on a day trip from Bosnia’a capital.

Travnik, one of the oldest cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, is known for its Ottoman-era architecture, natural beauty and rich history. Travnik is also the birthplace of Ivo Andrić, a Nobel Prize-winning writer.

The old town of Travnik is an enchanting labyrinth of narrow streets, houses from the Ottoman era, mosques and a hilltop fortress offering panoramic views. Travnik is one of the most charming places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

One of the most interesting sights in Travnik is Travnik Castle , a 16th-century fortress that offers a breathtaking view of the city. It also houses a museum that exhibits artefacts from Travnik’s history. In addition, the 16th-century Painted Mosque is one of the most beautiful mosques in Bosnia and is renowned for its stunning colourfully pained interior.

Finally, Plava Voda , also known as “Blue Water”, is a charming spring that flows from beneath the castle. Along the water’s edge, you’ll find a handful of cafés and restaurants that attract both locals and tourists

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If you are looking to explore the heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina and truly immerse yourself in its culture, traditions and culinary delights, visiting the historic village of Lukomir is one of the best things to do in Bosnia.

Situated at an altitude of 1,500 metres above the second deepest canyon in Europe , Lukomir is one of the most remote mountain villages in the country, offering a window into a slower past that is still alive today. The people make a living from agriculture, sheep farming and now tourism. In winter they leave the place because of the heavy snow.

Lukomir is like a time capsule from the 1950s, where the villagers move seasonally for sheep and fields. Lukomir, which means “harbour of peace”, lives up to its name and is a quiet haven.

Moreover, its remoteness proved to be a saving grace in times of war, as it was considered strategically insignificant and thus spared from the ravages of conflict.

The most popular way to see Lukomir is by organised tour but you can also get there by car. You will have to drive to Umoljani and then hike the remaining part. You can even stay for the night in one of the homestays . 

Once there, you can learn about the canyon’s dragon legend, taste fresh oven-made pita, and see historical tombstones.

The town of Stolac is most famous for being close to the medieval necropolis of Radimlja and the stećak tombstones.

These intricate and monumental tombstones dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries are a unique cultural treasure found only in Bosnia and Herzegovina and its neighbouring regions. With around 110 of these remarkable tombstones, Radimlja’s collection garnered  UNESCO recognition , earning a spot on the prestigious World Heritage list in 2016 as part of the Stećci Medieval Tombstones Graveyards.

But the town of Stolac is also very interesting and worth visiting. Stolac itself is a fascinating town, often described as an open-air museum. It has a number of historical treasures, such as the old town of Stolac with its medieval walls and ancient buildings, including the Begovina and the Husein Captan Mosque.

Besides its historical charm, Stolac is surrounded by breathtaking nature. The Bregava River flows gently through the town, and the majestic Dinaric Alps provide a breathtaking backdrop.

Visoko and the Bosnian Pyramids

Visoko has gained worldwide attention because of the Bosnian Pyramid complex. This controversial archaeological site is considered by some to be ancient pyramids, possibly even older than their Egyptian counterparts. This discourse has sparked heated debate in the archaeological community, making Visoko an exceptional haven for those fascinated by unconventional theories.

Positioned around 35 kilometres north of Sarajevo, the town of Visoko is accessible through a 40-minute bus journey from the capital. If you are intrigued by the mysteries these lands hold, this coils be a very interesting place to visit in Bosnia.

Medjugorje is a popular day trip for Mostar, mainly for religious reasons.

The town of Medjugorje has been a Catholic pilgrimage destination since 1981 when the apparition of the Virgin Mary supposedly took place in the town. Since then, Medjugorje has grown as a travel and pilgrimage destination and today there are many hotels, guesthouses and restaurants in addition to the apparition site.

Medjugorje is a clean and well-kept town, quite different from other destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you are not religious, you will find the visit to Medjugorje a bit strange. I would say that a trip to Medjugorje only makes sense if you are religious or a very curious person.

Trebinje took me by surprise. After travelling through Bosnia and Herzegovina for 5 weeks, I chose this city to slow down, catch up on my work and wrap up my Bosnia trip. It was an excellent choice and I had a great time in this picturesque city with a Mediterranean climate.

Trebinje is mostly known as the “City of Sun” because of its geographical location and you guessed it, sunny weather.

But Trebinje is also famous for its charming old town, proximity to lush vineyards and rich cultural and historical heritage. In fact, Trebinje is often called the prettiest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The old town of Trebinje is very charming and delightfully sleepy during the day. In the evening, however, it comes to life and makes the best backdrop for an evening meal.

You can also take a hike to the Hercegovačka Gračanica Monastery for the best view, or take a relaxing walk along the river.

This town is a real treat!

Visegrad is best known for the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge , also known as the Visegrad Bridge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the longest surviving Ottoman bridges and one of the most iconic landmarks of the region.

Visegrad is a mediaeval town located by the Drina River near the border with Serbia, where Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian architectural influences mix. One of the best things to do in Visegrad is to hop on a river cruise, where you can admire the historical sights of Visegrad from different perspectives. Some say that this is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Visegrad is also famous for being the place where the film ” The Bridge on the Drina” was shot . The film is based on a book by Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andrić, who was born in Visegrad. The story is about the town’s bridge and how it connects people’s lives over the years. The bridge in the film is the same as the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Visegrad.

Things to do in Visegrad:

• Drina River – Stroll along or take a river cruise
• The Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge – One of the most famous bridges in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Andricgrad – An artificial town created by film director Emir Kusturica. A unique cultural complex dedicated to Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andrić.
• Ivo Andric House – A pink-coloured house and former childhood residence of the author.

Ok, if you want to visit the country for its stunning coastline, Bosnia probably wouldn’t be the first choice. Not even the second. But Bosnia has a 20 km coastline bordering Croatia, which is definitely off the beaten path, much more affordable and actually quite beautiful.

Neum is Bosnia’s only seaside town. I only passed by Neum, but I have to say I was pretty impressed. The town is situated on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea and the coast and is very popular with the locals. There are many hotels, restaurants, shops and bars dotted along the small stretch of coastline, as well as many small rocky beaches.

If you are looking for an affordable base to explore the neighbouring Croatian coast, this could be your best choice!

Bihac is known mainly as a getaway to the Una National Park , but the city itself is also very much worth visiting.

The centre of Bihac is quite small but pretty and is located on the bank of the Una River. Along the main pedestrian street of Bosanska, there are several cafes where locals enjoy sipping strong coffee.

Historically, Bihac was an important Ottoman Empire fortress to the west of the city and served as a launching point for Ottoman advances into the Croatian borderlands. In Bihac there are some really interesting sights such as the beautiful Fethija Mosque or the Captain’s Tower – one of the oldest buildings in the town. 14 kilometres from Bihać is the Ostrožac fortress, a real historical jewel.

Finally, the Una River forms a natural border between Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina and is absolutely stunning. However, the best way to explore the natural beauty of the region is to head to…

Una National Park

Una National Park is the youngest of the three national parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina and was established only in 2008. With its undeniable beauty and a range of activities and attractions, it is a prime natural destination in the country. The park boasts landscapes defined by clear rivers, ancient forests and rock formations, and is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

The biggest attraction of Una National Park is Štrbački Buk waterfall , a breathtaking collection of cascades and falls. You can admire it from the viewing platforms or go swimming in the pools carved into the rock. This natural wonder is a photographer’s paradise and is known for being the tallest accessible waterfall in the park.

A notable area in the park is Martin Brod , located at the confluence of the Una and Unac rivers and aptly named ‘Marta’s Boat’. 

According to legend, the name honours a young woman named Marta, who suffered a tragedy while crossing the river to meet her lover on the opposite bank.

Within the park, you can also explore interesting archaeological sites such as the Sultan Ahmed I Mosque, the Serbian Orthodox Rmanj Monastery and the towering Ostrovica Fortress .

The park has an extensive network of hiking trails, but there is so much more you can do in the park. Apart from visiting the waterfalls, you can also enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking, or even try fly fishing (only in designated areas), or visit Japodski Otoci, the ‘Japanese Islands ,’ a collection of five islands connected by rivers and waterfalls.

Blidinje Nature Park

The Blidinje Nature Park is a beautiful protected area in the Dinaric Alps region and covers an area of about 364 square kilometres. The park is known for its diverse and untouched natural beauty, which makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and ecotourists.

Blidinje Nature Park boasts a diverse landscape with high mountains, deep valleys and glacial lakes like the incredible Lake Blidinje, but also with ancient ruins and traditional villages.

Among the most famous sights of the Blidinje Nature Park are  Hajdučka Vrata, Lake Blidinje, and Stećci,  mediaeval stones dating from between the 12th and 14th centuries.

I learned about the possibility of hiking in the Blidinje Nature Park only a day before I left Mostar, and I was gutted as it sounded like an amazing adventure. I met a few people who were planning a 2-day hike there and managed to find some official hiking trails on the Visit Blidinje website. You can also go biking or horseback riding in the park.

I hope you found this guide to the best places to visit in Bosnia helpful and it inspired you to see this incredible country. There are so many wonderful things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina that there is no doubt you will want to come back for more!

If you think I missed some awesome places or towns or just want to chat about Bosnia, please level comment below!

Until then, enjoy Bosnia and Herzegovina and happy travels!

Your Balkans Cheatsheet

If you are travelling around the Balkans by bus, Flixbus covers a  lot of the routes but they often cooperate with local operators. It is convenient to book on the Flixbus website if you want to pay for your journey upfront.

If you prefer to pay directly with the local operator, be prepared to pay in cash . To check the timetable BusTicket4.me is the most reliable. But I still recommend only using it for checking the times and purchasing the ticket at the bus station.

In the majority of Balkan countries, you will pay a 1€ (or equivalent in local currency) fee for luggage.

The bus is the best way to travel between Balkan countries but there are a couple of stunning train routes you cannot miss like Sarajevo to Mostar or Belgrade to Bar!

If you are considering renting a car you can browse all rental companies via Expedia!

Always, always triple-check the information you were given, especially when it comes to inter-city travel. Only because one person, in one place says there are no busses, it doesn’t mean it’s true. Triple check.

Only Slovenia and Croatia are within the Schengen Area so individual visa rules will apply. In 2024 we will also see Romania and Bulgaria joining Schengen Area.

Only Slovenia, Kosovo, Montenegro and Croatia use Euros. All other countries use their own currency. In some touristy spots, you will be able to use Euros but dont take it for granted. You will pay for a coffee pot from a souvenir stand in Mostar in Euros, but the supermarket will ask for Bosnian Marks. 

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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12 Places in Bosnia and Herzegovina you must visit

As one of my favourite underrated countries I have explored in Europe , I adore Bosnia and Herzegovina. In fact, I’ve got a long list of reasons as to why you’ll love this country in the Balkans! The culture is of course one of the best reasons to visit, but there is also some beautiful scenery. Often travellers overlook this hidden gem. If you’re more of a slow traveller then pack your bags and give yourself some time. These are the 12 best places in Bosnia and Herzegovina to explore.

Počitelj, Čapljina

Although I had never heard of it before arriving to the country, Počitelj quickly became one of my favourite villages to visit with thanks to a local guy who offered to show us the hillside village on a cloudy afternoon drive out of Mostar . Located on the left bank of the river Neretva, Počitelj  has incredible views overlooking the village and river below if you’re willing to hike the stairs to the top.

A small town outside of Mostar, Blagaj is often overlooked by travellers visiting the nearby famous old bridge. Blagaj is where I stayed for a week to explore Bosnia & Herzegovina and the family who kindly hosted me were all too eager to show me around the country around their work schedules. But it was here in Blagaj that I really took the time to unwind and switch off from the online world – deep in the Southeast of the country. Pictured is the Dervish Monastery Blagaj Tekija , a 600 year old monastery at the base of a cliff.

Mostar Old Bridge

Chances are you have already seen or heard of Mostar’s famous old bridge as it has built quite a reputation for itself as the major attraction in Bosnia & Herzegovina, thanks in part to its’ proximity to neighbouring Dubrovnik (Croatia) and accessibility as a day trip. The old bridge (Stari Most) was rebuilt after the 1990s conflict after standing for 427 years and has become famous for its diving competition every summer at the end of July.

A compact city with a lot to cover in a short geographic space, Sarajevo feels like a world away from reality with its’ cobblestone streets, misty hookah lounges and laidback attitude. There’s also a lot of history to uncover in the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina, so despite its’ small size, be sure to allow for a few days to discover this city on foot.

Kravica Waterfall

Located in the heartland of Bosnia & Herzegovina, Kravica waterfall is a local’s favourite as well as for those visiting from abroad (especially in the summer months to escape the heat and pop in for a dip!)

As the second largest city in the country, Banja Luka is another great pit stop for those city folk who need a plethora of restaurants, bars and pubs to choose from. This city is the centre of the Bosanska Krajina region and is located in the northwestern part of the country.

With only 20km of coastline, Neum is the only town from Bosnia & Herzegovina to be situated on the peninsula with access to the Adriatic Sea (read about the history of such in this intriguing article ). This makes Neum a popular spot for holidaymakers, though with its close proximity to Croatia’s coastline, is often overlooked by travellers to Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Another small town that must be visited is Jajce, with its impressive Pliva waterfall being a highlight for travellers passing through.

If you find yourself in central Bosnia be sure to stop in Travnik, an idyllic town with an interesting history given it was the capital city of governors from 1699 to 1850.

Sutjeska National Park

As the oldest National park in Bosnia, Sutjeska National Park is a must visit for active travellers who prefer to get outdoors and work for their viewpoints. The park includes the highest peak of Maglić at over 2,386 metres, on the border with Montenegro.

Blidinje Nature Park

If adventure travel is more your style, the second park you cannot miss is Blidinje, located in the heart of the Dinaric Alps. Hiking and climbing is in abundance and with the country remaining such a hidden gem of Europe, you’ll often feel as though you have the entire park to yourself.

The final destination we’d recommend as a must visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a small town in the north known as Konjic. This historic importance of this town makes it a necessary pit stop in your travels. During the Bosnian War the Konjic region served as an important link between Sarajevo and Southern Bosnia & Herzegovina. Aside from history, the town sits amongst some of the most beautiful scenery you will find in the country.

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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10 Things to Do in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Are you planning to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina soon? Read our tips below on the things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina with suggested tours!

It is easy to fall in love with Bosnia and Herzegovina. From the Olympic mountains surrounding its gorgeous capital Sarajevo, the UNESCO sites, and fantastic cuisine to cultural monuments where East meets West, you will find incredible history and uniquely hospitable locals. Let’s dive into the journey across Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Other articles you can read:

• 21 Things You Should Know Before Visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina
• 7 Days Balkan Itinerary: Guide On How To Visit Croatia, Montenegro And Bosnia & Herzegovina

Table of Contents

List of Best Things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina

1. old town tour in sarajevo.

Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most vibrant and diverse city. With a cluster of crafts shops, cobbled streets, and some of the best eateries, Sarajevo’s Old Town also known as Bascarsija is a great attraction. During your Sarajevo tour, you can easily buy a souvenir made with the same technique used in the 15th century when Bascarsija was established with the arrival of the Ottoman Empire. Bear in mind that the coffee culture is quite strong in Sarajevo and your Sarajevo journey is only complete with discovering the full coffee ritual.

2. Enjoy the Brave Divers diving off the Old Bridge in Mostar

Take in the sights of the Old Bridge in Mostar, cobbled streets, and the ramparts. If you sit in one of the local restaurants close to the Bridge, you can enjoy unforgettable views of the turquoise Neretva River. If you are visiting in July, keep an eye out for the Diving Off the Bridge event featuring some remarkable divers. Similar to Sarajevo, Mostar’s Old Town offers the opportunity to travel back in time and find traces of Mostar’s ancient past.

3. Soak in the Peace at the Apparition Hill in Medjugorje

The Shrine of Our Lady in Medjugorje, Herzegovina, is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in the world. The Apparition Hill became famous on 25th June 1981 when Virgin Mary appeared before six teenagers. Today, it is an asylum for those seeking peace, faith, and hope.

4. Visoko Pyramids

Drawn by the incredible energy, thousands of people visit one of the five pyramids in the Valley: Pyramid of Sun, Pyramid of Moon, Pyramid of Love, Pyramid of Bosnian Dragon, and the Temple of Mother Earth. The Pyramid of the Sun (Visocica) is the highest (it is even higher than the Pyramid of Cheops). Some say your eyes are tricking you, and that in front of you is nothing but a hill. This mystical place nevertheless offers much more than an archaeological miracle and is often said to have healing powers.

5. Mehmed Pasha Bridge and Andricgrad in Visegrad

This great Ottoman bridge is a UNESCO world heritage site. From here you can visit Andricgrad including the Ivo Andric’s Institute with the Centre for Slavic languages, Fine Arts Academy, Town Hall, Church of St Lazar, and Renaissance Theatre. It is a very nice tour and gives you an opportunity to explore several architectural styles and historical periods; the Byzantine, Ottoman, Renaissance, and Classical styles.

6. Kravice Waterfall

If you fancy a cold water swim on a hot sunny day, Kravice Waterfall will amaze you. It is literarily tailor-made for adventurers and nature lovers, and it is close to many other Herzegovina tourist gems so it is a highly recommended afternoon excursion from Sarajevo.

7. Enjoy the Incredible History and Tranquility of the Trebinje Monasteries

Herzegovina wines and cheese are a real treat for gourmand souls. Offering great wines from local producers, Trebinje wine cellars are a good place to start your tour of Trebinje. The City’s old town will absolutely impress you, and so will the 15th- century Orthodox Tvrdos Monastery, the Arslanagic Bridge, Klobuk Fortress, or the Hercegovacka Gracanica Monastery.

8. Skiing in the Olympic Mountains surrounding Sarajevo

Put on your skies and enjoy the wealth of skiing areas in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Olympic mountains which hosted the Winter Olympic Games in 1984, have got something to suit every taste plus they offer great value. All three Olympic mountains – Bjelasnica, Igman, and Jahorina are only a 30-minute ride from Sarajevo. Jahorina is suitable for everyone, from beginners to seasoned skiers. Bjelasnica and Igman are excellent ski resorts for advanced skiers and offer some amazing off-piste skiing.

9. Explore Medieval Fortresses in Central Bosnia (Travnik and Jajce)

Discover a vast collection of household items, tools, and weapons, housed in the well-kept medieval fortresses in Jajce and Travnik. In addition to these historic edifices, you can enjoy a great Waterfall rising above the Jajce fortress. Jajce is also known as a royal town, and the residence of Bosnian kings during the medieval period, whereas Travnik became the capital of Bosnia during the Ottoman period, and in 1699 the residence of viziers. The Bosnian viziers presided in Travnik for over 150 years.

10. Go Rafting – Neretva, Una, Tara…

A trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t complete without a rafting adventure. For a lifetime breathtaking venture, Strbacki buk in the Una National Park offers the ultimate adventure experience. On the other hand, Neretva River is more suitable for family rafting experiences.

These are the possible things you can do in Bosnia and Herzegovina. So if you are ready to have a fun and exciting trip, you know what to do and where to go! So pack your things now and prepare yourself for a wonderful adventure in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Fun Facts About Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Bosnia and Herzegovina, as a part of Former Yugoslavia, was the first socialist country to host the Olympic Games
• The morning before the Winter Olympics, Sarajevo’s slopes and streets were snowless. On the night before the opening, the snow started falling
• Bosnia and Herzegovina hosts the best film festival in SE Europe – Sarajevo Film Festival held in August
• Europe’s largest rainforest, Perucica, is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina (National Park Sutjeska).

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Things You Must Do In Bosnia | A Local’s Itinerary

5 days in bosnia and herzegovina is perfect for a trip around this country. with this bosnia travel itinerary, expect to indulge in breathtaking nature and the country`s complicated history..

This 5 day Bosnian itinerary is a balanced trip of city sightseeing and nature musings. There are many things to do in Bosnia, and this trip will take you from the capital town, Sarajevo through central Bosnia, towards the southern Herzegovina region.

Besides rich nature and culture, Bosnia has delicious cuisine. One thing is for sure, you will not be hungry! The portions in Bosnia are usually big, so much so that two people can share one dish! Also, Bosnia coffee is very unique. Be it the preparation or the method of indulgence, be sure to give it a try!

This 5 day Bosnia itinerary is prepared by a local, who was born and raised in Sarajevo. As a guide, she is very passionate about showing her home country to anyone who wishes to learn more!

Day 1: Sarajevo

Sarajevo, Bosnia is a beautiful town. It would be ideal to spend 2 days in Sarajevo , although if you only have 5 days in Bosnia, dedicate at least a day to the destination. Sarajevo’s main attractions are located in its old town. I’d recommend staying in a hotel in the center so you can forgo transportation. 

There are many things to do in Bosnia. Start with the Eternal Flame and move onto Ferhadija & Saraci , two streets with plenty of restaurants, stores, and monuments. 

Within a short distance, you will come across several places of worship and the former border between a town during the Austro-Hungarian Empire and one in the Ottoman Empire. This is where East meets West.  

Next, head to the  Museum of Sarajevo 1878-1918 . This is where the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and his wife Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg took place. Afterward, take a stroll towards  Bascarsija, a splendid plaza during the days of the Ottoman Empire. At the end of this street, you will stop at the Sarajevo City Hall . You can visit its interior, which features exhibitions that showcases the history of Sarajevo. 

After lunch, explore the Yellow Fortress , and catch a cable car towards Mount Trebevic. Or, choose to visit the Tunnel of Hope and Vrelo Bosne on the other side of town. 

Tunnel of Hope  is a museum that depicts the history of the 1990-1995 Bosnian War.  Vrelo Bosne  sits at the foot of Mount Igman. Due to its beautiful natural scenery, it is one of the local’s favorite spots to sit and relax. 

Day 2: Travnik & Jajce

Travnik is a great destination to visit in central Bosnia and is just 90 kilometers west of Sarajevo. It is a must for those with 5 days in Bosnia, especially for travelers who are interested to learn more about the history of the country. 

In the times of Ottomans, Travnik was one of the major cities in Bosnia. It’s situated at the foot of Vlasic Mountain, in the Lasva Valley, which was once the main trading route toward Dalmatia, Serbia and beyond. 

In Travnik, make sure to visit  Stari Grad (Old Town)   Fortress  and  Museum of Ivo Andric.  

The fortress is situated on the slopes of Vlasic Mountain and offers a wonderful view of the town. Inside the fortress, there are interesting displays regarding the history and natural heritage of the Travnik region. You will have more insight into the life of locals throughout the centuries. 

Visiting the Museum of Ivo Andric is one of the best things to do in Bosnia. It situated in the birth house of Nobel Prize winner Ivo Andric. This Yugoslav novelist, poet, and short-story writer won the 1961 Nobel Prize in literature. Besides the exhibits about Andric’s life and literary work, there is also an ethnographic exhibit depicting the appearance of the traditional Bosnian room in the time of the Ottoman Empire. 

Following your trip around Travnik, head to Jajce, which is just 50-60 km away. This small, charming destination is situated in the valley of two rivers-Vrbas and Pliva.

During your 5 days in Bosnia and Herzegovina, do remember to stop by Jajce. Jajce has many landmarks and museums worth visit, so I’d recommend getting a daily ticket that covers the majority attractions. Get tickets in the Tourist Information Center close to the waterfall. 

The main attractions are:

• Mithraeum Monument
• Katakomba, an underground church
• Jajce Fortress
• Ethno Museum
• Anti-Fascist Council of the National Liberation of Yugoslavia Museum 
• Jajce Waterfall

All museums and landmarks are within walking distance to each other. If you’re staying in the old town or close to it, you don’t need to rely on any transportation. Just make sure you check the attraction hours beforehand! You should make the Tourist Info Center the first stop so that you can better plan your sightseeing route. 

Day 3: Mostar

In 4 hours (164 km) you will arrive in Mostar from Jajce. Enjoy the drive along Vrbas and Neretva river, and the view of Mount Cvrsnica and Mount Prenj as you approach Herzegovina.

Tips : If you’re traveling by car make a stop in Prusac Village  and drive to Ajvatovica , which is a pilgrimage site between two huge rocks. This is a very important Muslim holy place and the oldest one in Bosnia. You can learn the history of this land, as well as the legend of Ajvas Dedo from locals.

The first day in Mostar should be spent walking around its old town, and the next day for exploring its surroundings. 

The main attractions in Mostar are:

• The Museum of the Old Bridge
• Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque
• Biscevic House
• Crooked Bridge
• Franciscan Church

All landmarks and museums are within walking distance from one another.

If you want to learn about the Siege of Mostar during the Bosnian war in the ’90s, book a city tour with locals from Fortuna Tours. No matter how you go about exploring the area, do remember to check the video about the Siege of Mostar. The video screening is in a small souvenir shop next to the bridge.

The Museum of the Old Bridge is situated in one of two towers. The Old Bridge is the most famous landmark in Mostar. This museum will tell you the captivating story about the bridge, its reconstruction, and the archeological artifacts found at the site. Also, there is a nice view from the top of the tower. 

Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque is one of the few mosques that are open for tourists in the old town. It is one of the best things to do in Bosnia as it gives a glimpse into the complicated history of the country. Climb to the top of the minaret of this mosque, and enjoy the amazing view of the ground below.  

If you’re interested in seeing the interior of the Bosnian houses under the Ottoman Empire from the 17th century, visit Biscevic House .

The Franciscan Church allows a visit to the 107.2m high bell tower of the church. Inside the bell tower, there is a viewpoint with a bird’s eye perspective of the town. You need to buy an entrance ticket.

Tips : Go to the old bridge in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid tourists.

For adrenaline junkies or those that look for the best views, make sure to visit Fortica hill . There is a hut with homemade juices, delicious food, and the best view of Mostar. If you have 5 days in Bosnia, definitely spend some time for adventures like zip-lining, climbing, via-ferata, hiking, and biking!

Day 4: Trip to Pocitelj, Kravice Waterfall & Blagaj

The second day in Mostar is for exploring the Herzegovina region. Take a day trip, and loop around Pocitelj , Kravice Waterfall and the town of Blagaj .

Just 30 km away from Mostar, in the valley of Neretva River sits Pocitelj. This fortified town is situated within a natural karst amphitheater. All houses are made out of the rock and connected with cobble-stone streets. Go early in the morning to have the whole place for yourself. Walk around the streets and visit the fort, bastion, and mosque. If you come in the late afternoon you will enjoy an amazing sunset.

Kravice Waterfall is also known as Bosnian Niagara falls. The fall is made of numerous springs falling from a height of 28 meters. It’s a popular swimming spot and is worth a visit if you have 5 days in Bosnia. Besides swimming, you can take a short walk along the Trebizat River or jump on a boat along the river to the foot of the fall. There are two or three cafes around the fall.

On the way back to Mostar, stop in Blagaj and visit Blagaj Fort and Dervish Monastery . Blagaj is a great place for a lunch break, especially if you like fresh trout. It’s possible to get to Blagaj Fort by car, and then walk some 20 minutes, or just walk for one hour from the town. There are no attractions inside the fort. But it has an amazing view of Buna River and Neretva Valley.

Below the hill with Blagaj Fort, at the source of Buna river, stands Dervish Monastery (Tekke). This tekke gives you insight into the life of dervishes in the time of the Ottoman Empire.

Day 5: Trebinje

Trebinje is a town situated in the southeast of Bosnia and Herzegovina, just half an hour away from the border with Croatia. Following your 5 days in Bosnia, you can head to its neighbor for a 7 day visit around Croatia !  Similar to Sarajevo and Mostar, Trebinje is also surrounded by mountains. 

The road from Mostar to Trebinje takes you through the settlements in Herzegovina, and its long fields used for growing native grapes and Mediterranean fruit. In the region of Herzegovina, there is a popular wine road that leads travelers from one cellar to another to taste different types of local wines. Besides wine, Trebinje is popular for its delicious honey. Do visit both! 

Explore the old town  and visit the Hercegovina Museum that has great archeological and ethnographic exhibitions. 

One of the best things to do in Bosnia is visiting the beautiful landmarks in Trebinje. One such monument is the Arslanagica Bridge , which derives from the Ottoman Empire. To get to the bridge, take a nice, relaxing 20-minute stroll from the old town along the Trebisnjica river. 

Finish your day watching the stunning sunset over Trebinje from Crkvina Hill , where the beautiful Orthodox Church Hercegovacka Gracanica is situated. Close to the church, there is a cafe with a terrace to enjoy a drink or three! 

Tips : On your way from Mostar to Trebinje, stop at Vjetrenica Cave . Stopping by the cave is one of the best things to do in Bosnia. It is the most important cave in the country and a visit is available only with a guide that you can get at the information center in front of the cave. Tours are available every hour, but remember to check the official tour page before coming to Vjetrenica!

Other Tips & Advice

5 days in Bosnia may be short, but there so many things to do in Bosnia that you will still be able squeeze in quite a few sights! From amazing and rich nature to vibrant cities. Here are some tips and advice that you may find helpful for your travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Other than 5 days in Bosnia, make sure to check out its neighbors with this 7 day Croatia itinerary , this 10 day Greece travel plan , or this week-long agenda in Slovakia !

What is the Best Time to Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Late spring and early autumn offer plenty of sunny days, definitely some beautiful colors of nature, and mild temperatures. Summers can be touristy and hot (central Bosnia around 34 Celsius degrees, Herzegovina around 38). But there are also a lot of activities and events you can partake in.

I believe the best time to visit Bosnia are the end of May, the beginning and mid of June, and the end of September.

Mountains and ski resorts are recommended during the winter. The best ski resorts are around Sarajevo are on the Olympic Mountains. Here’s what to pack for a trip in Bosnia !

How do I Travel around Bosnia?

The best airport to land when traveling to Bosnia is in Sarajevo. For your return, you can also think about the airport in Dubrovnik, Croatia. The airport Cilipi is very close to the town of Trebinje, which is the last stop in your 5 day Bosnia itinerary.

When traveling through Bosnia and Herzegovina, use local buses or Getbybus and Flixbus. These companies have good connections between all the towns in the itinerary, and tickets are very cheap.

How Much to Budget for a Bosnia Trip?

The local currency in Bosnia in Herzegovina is the convertible mark (BAM). But, in places like Mostar, Pocitelj, Blagaj, and Trebinje you can use the Euro and Croatian Kuna in restaurants and souvenir shops.

Prices in Bosnia and Herzegovina are among the cheapest in Europe. Long-distances buses are around EUR 15. Accommodation is from EUR 15 to EUR 100 per night. In some hotels in Sarajevo, you can get a bed in a very nice dorm room for only EUR 15 or less with breakfast included. In some hotels, you can get a very nice single room with breakfast included for just EUR 40.

Food is also cheap. In the restaurants in touristy places like Sarajevo and Mostar, lunch for two can cost under EUR 25. Most attractions are under EUR 10 and the cable car in Sarajevo is EUR 10/return ticket. Drinks are under EUR 5.

How can I Support Sustainable Tourism in Bosnia?

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a very beautiful country. It’s rich in nature and culture but has a very low level of income. Sadly, the unemployment rate is very high.

The country has a lot to offer to travelers. Tourism, with your help, can become an important industry that will employ and sustain locals.

Please, support locals by buying homemade food, handmade souvenirs, eating in small family restaurants, and using services provided by locals, e.g. city guides, travel agencies, etc.

Sabina is a blogger from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina . Follow her on Wild in the Balkans and Pinterest , Instagram & Youtube ! Contact her if you need a guide (cultural & mountain guide). 

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Breathtaking Natural Sights in Bosnia

Bosnia and Herzegovina has some of the most breathtaking natural sights in the world. From emerald green rivers to fascinating Ottoman architecture, this Balkan country has it all and should be one of the places to visit at least once in your lifetime.

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Pliva Waterfall

Jajce town in Bosnia and Herzegovina, famous for the beautiful Pliva waterfall | © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

When Spring comes, Kravice Waterfall is a great place to visit. When Summer comes, less water flows but it’s shallow enough for locals and tourists to swim in the river.

Kravice Waterfall

Hidden inside a natural border between Croatia and Bosnia is a National Park named after the River Una , another spectacular waterfall. If you’re brave enough, you can go river rafting here, too.

Buna Springs

Dervish House in Buna Springs is one of the most visited places in Bosnia and Herzegovina for a beautiful mixture of natural beauty and architecture.

Located between Doboj and Zenica is Zepce , a beautiful town in the valley that’s surrounded by mountains. The roaring River Bosna flows through.

Drina River

Visegrad’s UNESCO-listed Ottoman bridge over the Drina River was designed by one of the greatest architects of the time and is a major tourist attraction in Bosnia.

Trebisnjica River

Trebinje , a town in Republika Srpska, has the Trebisnjica River passing through. The best view of the historic Ottoman style Arslanagic Bridge is from Crkvina Hill.

Bjelašnica Mountain

Bjelasnica, a mountain in Central Bosnia to south-west of the capital Sarajevo, has a popular ski resort. During the Winter Olympics in 1984, the mountain hosted the men’s alpine skiing. Some areas are still at risk of unexploded mines, but it’s safe if you stick to the tourist trails.

Discovered by the Romans and called Una, this river stretches a total of 212 kilometres along the border of Bosnia and Croatia. Some say it’s one of the most beautiful rivers in the world. Una River has a range of water sports including paddle boating, kayaking, and white river rafting.

Volujak Mountain

Volujak Mountain is on the border between Bosnia and Montenegro in Republika Srpska. Hiking this beautiful mountain can be a fun challenge for outdoor enthusiasts.

Maglic Mountain

Maglic Mountain is part of the mountain range on the border between Bosnia and Montenegro. The best photos are often from the heart-shaped lake, Trnovačko, in Montenegro.

Pocitelj , on the banks of Neretva River, makes a great place to visit while on a trip to Mostar. You can find medieval castles, ruins, and even hike up the hills for amazing views of the town. Natural beauty surrounds the ancient town, making it a perfect place for a photo.

Kupres is an ideal place to enjoy winter sports and to go paragliding in the summer. A range of trails makes hiking in this picturesque landscape a must.

Janjske Otoke

Janjske Otoke , near Sipovo, is one of the most popular places for camping, hiking, and off-road cycling in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can enjoy the forests, the river and waterfalls like the one below.

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The Top Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

• October 9, 2023 October 9, 2023

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most underrated countries in Europe and full of natural and cultural treasures. The country has a dark past and suffered a lot in the 90s, but today, Bosnians look forward. On this basis, here are the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This article may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclaimer policy  here .

Table of Contents

Places to Visit in Bosnia: the Basics 

The country of Bosnia and Herzegovina is split into three administrative divisions: the Republika Srpska , the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina , and the Autonomous Brčko District . 

The Republika (Orthodox Christian Serbs) and the Federation (Bosniak Muslims and Croats) are home to different ethnic groups and act as federal entities. 

How to travel in Bosnia

• Bosnia uses the Bosnian mark which used to be pegged to the German mark and is now pegged to the Euro at 0.5, making it easy to convert prices. 
• For accommodation, I always use Booking.com . In Bosnia, you’ll find lots of apartments as well as conventional hotels. In the smaller towns and cities, apartments will often require cash, either Euro or Bosnian mark;
• For tours, I use GetYourGuide , and they offer lots of exciting tours all over Bosnia. 
• For travel insurance, I use SafetyWing , a travel and digital nomad insurance plan that allows you to be covered for exactly as many days as you need. 
• The local language is Bosnian and English levels vary greatly depending on where you go. As such, learning some basic phrases in Bosnian will be useful. 
• You can travel by bus in Bosnia and certain cities are connected by train as well. For bus tickets, GetbyBus is one of the best websites for Bosnia.

The Best Places to Visit in Bosnia

The top tourist attractions in Bosnia are scattered all over the country. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t particularly big, but most roads aren’t European-style motorways – and getting around does take a while.

Sarajevo: the Reborn Capital

Sarajevo is Bosnia’s multifaceted capital city. With hundreds of years of history and a diverse population of Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics, Sarajevo is one of the most fascinating capitals in Europe. 

Better still, the surroundings are home to imposing mountains and beautiful hiking trails, making Sarajevo one of the must-visit places on your Bosnia itinerary. 

• Read my full guide on The Best Things to do in Sarajevo .

Kravica Waterfalls

The stunning Kravica waterfalls are undoubtedly among the top places to visit in Bosnia and are comparable to more well-known waterfalls in Croatia – such as Plitvicka Jezera and Krka.

Mostar: the Ottoman Bridge

Mostar is one of the top tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina, thanks to its stunning Ottoman core. 

Located in the Herzegovina part of the country, the city is famous all over the world for its Stari Most (“Old Bridge”), an Ottoman monument that was destroyed during the Bosnian War and rebuilt in the early 2000s. 

Jahorina: Bosnia’s Olympic Ski Resort 

Located in the vicinity of Sarajevo, Jahorina is one of the best ski resorts in the Balkans . It is one of the locations of the fabled 1984 Winter Olympics. 

Contrary to other venues, however, Jahorina has seen massive redevelopment in recent years and is today a thriving resort town. 

In summer, the area is an excellent spot for hiking. 

Situated close to Mostar, Blagaj is a picturesque village containing the source of the Buna River. The entire area is worth a visit and is home to Blagaj Tekke, a monastery for the Dervish.

Pocitelj is another magnificent medieval town glued to the hills around Mostar. It’s the perfect place for a short stop on your road trip, as it feels like you’ve stepped into a time capsule. 

Located in the far south of Bosnia, close to Dubrovnik, Croatia, Trebinje is a beautiful Ottoman town with quaint architecture and cozy cafes. For the best views, head to the nearby Nova Gracanica monastery. 

Banja Luka: the Capital of the Republika Srpska

The Republika Srpska is the Serb-dominated political entity in Bosnia, and Banja Luka is their administrative capital. 

The city is a lot less touristy than other parts of Bosnia but is home to a massive fortress, a stunning Orthodox church, and a mosque. Better still, in the surroundings of Banja Luka, you’ll find several incredible national parks.

Tuzla is the third-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina and a bit of a hidden gem.

Few foreigners visit the city, but its salt lakes are excellent spots to swim in the summer. The city’s old town is small but quaint, and the surroundings are great for hiking. 

The area is packed with diaspora visitors in summer, and the city’s airport now offers low-cost flights to many European destinations. 

Travnik & Jajce

Travnik is a small city in the very center of the country and a lovely town to stop on your Bosnia road trip. 

Close to Travnik, you’ll find the town of Jajce, another picturesque medieval gem with a citadel in the mountains. 

Una National Park

Una National Park is one of the best natural places to visit in Bosnia and the best national park in the Republika Srpska.

Neum: Bosnia’s Corridor to the Adriatic

When the Bosnian War ended and Yugoslavia ceased to exist, the new state of Bosnia and Herzegovina wanted access to the sea, which they got. 

Neum is a tiny corridor sandwiched between Croatia on both sides, but it does have a quaint town with tourism infrastructure and some lovely beaches. 

Neum prevents the country from being landlocked and is also one of the best places to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina thanks to its beaches.

Places to Visit in Bosnia: Know Before You Go

To complete our Bosnia travel guide, here are some essential things to know and FAQs.

Is Bosnia Safe?

Many people still associate Bosnia with the terrible wars of the 1990s, but the country has moved on from that. 

While poverty, corruption, and brain drain still constitute major hurdles to Bosnia’s development, the country is as safe as any other destination in Southeastern Europe today. 

Use common sense, and your Bosnia visit should remain trouble-free. 

How to Get to Bosnia

Bosnia has four international airports, with Sarajevo receiving the bulk of incoming passengers. 

Sarajevo Airport has flights to various European hubs as well as Istanbul. 

Banja Luka Airport and Tuzla Airport have low-cost flights to several European destinations. 

Best Time to Visit Bosnia

You can visit Bosnia all year round. The country has summer and winter destinations with beaches, mountains, and ski slopes catering to different activities. 

How to Get Around Bosnia

You can catch buses between larger cities like Sarajevo, Tuzla, Banja Luka, and Mostar, but renting a car is the best option for nature-related attractions. In this context, going on a Bosnia road trip is the best way to see the country’s raw natural beauty. 

Between Sarajevo and Mostar, you can experience one of Europe’s most beautiful train journeys. 

Suggested 10-Day Bosnia Itinerary

• Day 1: Sarajevo City
• Day 2: Sarajevo Winter Olympics and Mount Trebevic or Jahorina
• Day 3: Mostar
• Day 4: Blagaj, Pocitelj, and Trebinje
• Day 5: Neum
• Day 6: Travnik 
• Day 7: Tuzla
• Day 8: Kravica Waterfalls
• Day 9:  Banja Luka
• Day 10: Una National Park

This itinerary will require a rental car, and you’ll drive a lot – but it’s the best way to see as much as possible in ten days.  

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10 Best Places To Visit In Bosnia On A Road Trip

It took me a couple years but finally I completed my ultimate  Balkan itinerary and saw all the countries, my last unexplored region in Europe. If you have been keeping up with my adventures you know I visited Paris to get my ear drum fixed. The result was that I was not allowed to fly for two months. Traveling in Europe by car was the only option! Perfect timing for a Balkan road trip of course including the best places to visit in Bosnia.

Balkan road trip with Peugeot

You know I love to explore countries I have never been before, so I was super excited to jump in my Peugeot 5008 and drive all the way down southeast to start my Balkan itinerary. The road trip had started and first on the list was to visit Bosnia, for me country nr. 89.

My Bosnia road trip

Like always I actually had no clue what I was doing and I think that is a great way to go into a Bosnia road trip. Because when there are no expectations, nothing can be disappointing. I didn’t search the internet for Bosnia tourism or things to do, I was just winging it. Looking back this was the best idea, because my trip to Bosnia contained one highlight after the other. Traveling in Bosnia honestly was one of the highlights of my Balkan itinerary, visiting Srebrenica may be even one of the highlights of all my trips in 2018. It left a deep impression!

Having a lunch with a view at Kravice Waterfalls , one of the best places to see in Bosnia.

Bosnia tourism

If you start looking for places to see in Bosnia you will obviously find the usual stuff like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Trebinje, but there are more places to see in Bosnia. What about Kravice, Blagaj, Pocitelj, Mrkonjic Grad, Srebrenica, Lake Jablanica? All amazing stops on a road trip to Bosnia.

9 Best places to see in Bosnia on a road trip

1. visit sarajevo .

The countries capital can’t be missed! May be not the most pretty city you have seen, but full of history. Sarajevo is one of the cities that suffered the most during the Yugoslavian war that only ended in 1995. When I visited Sarajevo I did a free walking tour. You just gather at a certain place in the city and join a group on a walking tour. The free walking tour in Sarajevo is a tip-based tour, so free to join, happy to tip the guide.

This walking tour through the city is not just another guide. My guide was a professional local lady born and raised in Sarajevo knowing the city like the back of her hand. Her passionate way of telling about her city was captivating and hearing what happened over the years in Sarajevo was intriguing, especially when she added her personal stories about the war when she was a little child, basically living in hell. It made me realise how blessed I was growing up inNetherlands, and never had to deal with any safety issue in my life ever.

There are two walking tours in Sarajevo: a historical walking tour and one that focusses on the war. Click here for more info about the free walking tour in Sarajevo  that starts every day at 10.30 in the morning.

1.1 Old Town Sarajevo

This is where my walking tour ended and definitely a must visit in Sarajevo. This is also the place where they recommend you to try the local eateries in all the Bosnia travel guide books. It was here where I tried the Burek and Cevapi.

2. Road trip from Sarajevo to Mostar

Some of my favourite places to see in Bosnia are along the road from Sarajevo to Mostar. This extremely scenic ride with plenty of tunnels and bridges will take you through stunning gorges, over mountains and along the river. Views are constantly to die for and I stopped many times along the way to enjoy the road trip from Sarajevo to Mostar to the max.

It came all as a massive surprise as I had never heard that driving in Bosnia was so incredible. After I stopped several times I decided to give up on Mostar as my final destination for that day. This place was simply to gorgeous to just keep on driving.

3. Camping Lake Jablanica

Why would I not be willing to stay here for the night? Mostar was my goal for that day, but I already found my peace on the side of Lake Jablanica. Coincidentally I stumbled upon an extremely laid-back camping place called Auto Camp Miris Ljeta in Ostrozac. To put up your tent and wake up with a view like this will cost you around €10.

After seeing these photos I am sure you would be willing to spend your holidays in Bosnia like this, right?

Of course this town will always be known for the famous Mostar Bridge, but there is more than that. Around the Stari Most there are narrow cobblestoned streets with souvenirs shops, little coffee places, restaurants, coloured houses, terraces, hidden courtyards, rooftop bars and more. Mostar honestly stole my hear the moment I walked in and I think is one of the highlights of Bosnia tourism. If you are lucky some daredevil will jump off the bridge as it is a common thing to do. It is great to hit one of the terraces and watch the spectacle.

4.1 Jump from the bridge in Mostar

If you are a fan of extreme sports you might want to try the bridge jump yourself. This is a legal thing to do, but for something so extreme you probably want some local advice. Find someone from the Divers Club, they are mostly around and if not ask in the nearby souvenir shop and they will point you in the right direction. You will have to pay them €30, including some practice jumps. This jump is a reason for some people to travel to Bosnia.

4.2 Sunset at Sniper Tower

There is a famous place to visit in Mostar for sunset. Ask around for the Sniper Tower, an abandoned high rise building. Officially it is illegal, but popular with locals and tourists. If you are interested in the history then join one of the free walking tours.

This touristy but stunning place has to be included on your trip to Bosnia. Head to the spring of the river Buna where an ancient Dervish Monastery is built into a 200 meter high cliff. Right at the place where the underground river gets to see daylight for the first time there are many terraces and a little waterfall. It is a famous Instagram photo spot.

Walk around the restaurants onto an elevated path to get the best views of the monastery and this amazing place to visit in Bosnia. Come early in summers to avoid the crowds, but unfortunately when you come early the spring of the river is in the shadow and looks a little less appealing. Having a coffee here is a great way to wake up though.

6. Kravice Waterfalls

Good wine needs no bush! Kravice is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Bosnia. It is a popular day trip from Mostar or Dubrovnik, but I would recommend you to stay around Kravice and spend an evening dining next to the waterfalls and go for a sunrise dip the next morning. I wrote a travel guide for Kravice Waterfalls with everything you need to know.

7. Pocitelj

This sleepy little village perched into the mountain is a great place to visit in Bosnia on a road trip. It is not too far away from Kravice and is worth a stop on your Bosnia vacation. The steep cobbled stoned streets lined up with souvenir stalls, homestays and friendly locals lead up to a castle on the top with impressive views over the village and the river. Try the homemade fresh juices like strawberry, pomegranate and cherry. They are yummy!

8. Plivsko Jezero

This is not a standard tourist spot in Bosnia and not many people include this in their road trip itinerary. I got this tip from a local, who explicitly told me to go and to camp around the lake. People are extremely happy to see the Bosnia tourism picking up at this gorgeous lake surrounded by green hills.

8.1 Wooden watermills of Jajce

When you are around Plivsko Jezero you should also make your way to the wooden watermills. These little huts above small waterfalls make a great sight and definitely among the cooler things to see in Bosnia. It is called Mlinovi and can be found on Google Maps near the lakes.

9. Pliva Waterfall

The beautiful Pliva waterfalls can be found in the charming old town of Jajce and mark the end of the Pliva River. With its 22 meters high the waterfalls are impressive and one of the best places to see in Bosnia. Add the lovely town of Jajce to it and you want to add this place to your Bosnia road trip itinerary.

10. Srebrenica

This is not a place you will usually find in any Bosnia travel guide. Srebrenica for me is a special place as it historically played a huge roll in Dutch history. Sadly enough Srebrenica is put on the map because of the genocide against the Bosnian Muslims in time of the Yugoslavian war. Almost 10.000 men got deported and killed and buried in mass graves in and around Srebrenica. Visiting the memorial center in Srebrenica and learning about the war in the museum left a deep impression. It gave me goosebumps to see what happened here. It is not a major tourist spot in Bosnia but if you are interested in history then add this to your itinerary of your trip to Bosnia.

If you want to read more about the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial and museum , click on the link. Be aware this contains sensitive content!

Driving in Bosnia

There are a couple things you need to know when you are going on a road trip in Bosnia:

• When driving in Bosnia you will hardly get to travel on highways, simply because there are hardly any.
• Most of the trip you will pass through the mountains. Constantly going up and down, following the winding roads.
• Make sure you have enough fuel, cause going uphill will drain your tank fast and not everywhere it is easy to find gas station, especially off the beaten path.
• Driving in Bosnia is not hard as traffic is pretty chilled and road conditions are good.
• There are many cool things to see in Bosnia, but one of the highlights is also its scenic roads.
• Driving from place to place you will get to see the most scenic landscapes.
• May you get lost, ask locals to help you. Bosnians are the most friendly people and always happy to help tourists.

Thank you for reading my travel blog about Bosnia and I hope it helped you planning your trip to Bosnia. May you still have questions please let me know, I would love to help you make the most of your Balkan road trip. 

If you are planning a Balkan road trip  then please let Bosnia be part of it, but also take a look at some other stops along the way. I for example discovered amazing things to do in Balkan for you. Read for example how to get to Uvac Viewpoint in Serbia , sleep in the mountains in Kosovo , take the Komani Lake Ferry in Albania or visit Matka Canyon . The Balkan is full of amazing adventures! I surely will be back...

If you want to help me a little please share this post on Facebook, Twitter or any kind of social media. A small thing for you to do that can make a big difference for me. Massive thanks!

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Top 10 Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a real gem of the Balkan. Everything about the country is beautiful. From the breathtaking Una River to snow-kissed summits of Dinaric Alp – the beauty of nature is aplenty.

Looking into the personal impression, tucked into the ancient streets of the country are open orgies of Slavic, Balkan, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman styles. The heaps of surprises this country holds are the reasons why scores of tourists from across the world flock in this country to learn about the glorious empires of the past that once left an impression on the country’s soul.

The omnipresent Nature is always there to cast her magic on everyone who visits this country. This list of places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina given here in no sense is complete because creating such an exhaustive list is next to impossible.

But before starting off with the list, a quick run through some fun facts about the country would be Nice:

• Bosnia and Herzegovina have a nickname – ‘Heart-Shaped Land.’ This name comes from the close resemblance of the land with the human heart.
• Bosnia part of the name is derived from the word Bosana, which is an Indo-European word that means ‘water.’
• The country is made up of two distinct entities – the Republic Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• The country won the Gold Medal in 2004’s summer Paralympics in the volleyball championship. The players lost their limbs during the Bosnian war.
• After the Ottomans executed Stjepan Tomasevic – the last king of Bosnia, the Bosnian Christians were converted into Islam in masses.
• A pseudoarchaeological notion was once propagated that the country is home to the most massive ancient human-made pyramids in the world. It turned out that this was just a hoax.

While this list of facts can continue, it makes sense to revert focus on the list of best Bosnia and Herzegovina tourist attractions because that is what was intended in the first place.

→ CLICK HERE FOR MORE BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA TRAVEL GUIDES  

Here’s the list of the top places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina

It makes sense to start the list of tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Travnik only because it was once the stronghold and capital of this sub-region of the Ottoman Empire.

While the relics of the Ottoman era still stand tall, this town that is bisected by rambling Lasva River is, as of today, a primary attraction for the outdoorsy types.

The town is splattered with monuments and edifices of eastern style and a couple of Ottoman clock towers. The town heart shows off the 15th-century architecture.

Travnik sits on the slopes of Vlasic Mountains, which has gained fame for being Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most preferred hiking , Nordic walking, and skiing destinations. Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina remains incomplete for the adrenaline enthusiasts until they make their way into this town.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Travnik, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read also:   Top 10 Castles in Bosnia and Herzegovina to Visit

Bosnia and Herzegovina travel fails to make any sense with a trip to the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is something to be experienced and not read about.

Once ravaged and torn apart by cacophonic and riotous conflicts of the 1990s, Sarajevo is today on a collision course with what we call modern age. On the one hand, when the spoils of war still fringe the districts, newfound reckless courage flows through the nerves of the city as the Bosnians define the atrocities that years of war brought.

Arched bridges made of stone, enchanting city parks, museums of modern art, thumping jazz – everything stands in stark contrast to the looming mosques and the remnants of war-torn Bosnia. And best of all, the sinfully delicious food from Turkish restaurants coupled with alfresco beer is something to die for.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read full blog posts: Things to do in Sarajevo and Day trips from Sarajevo

Kravice Falls

Piercing through the dense forests, and free-falling over the edge of cliffs, the series of waterfalls plunging 25 meters down into a lake is one of the most beautiful sights to behold in the country. A perfect destination for the outdoorsy types and the adrenaline enthusiasts, Kravice Falls, is a popular hiking destination.

And for those who love fish, this place is cut out from heaven and installed right here on earth. The grilled fish is so sinfully delicious that one can happily ditch everything else in favor of it.

Swimming in the lake’s shimmering water in the backdrop of frothy white waterfalls is yet another activity that makes the Kravice Falls one of the top tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Read also:   Top 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Europe

Of all the ski fields that are found in Bosnia, Jahorina is by far the best of all. Nestled in Dinaric Alps’ upper levels and spotted by pines, Jahorina once had the honor of playing host for the Winter Olympics.

During the summers, this place is a haven for hikers, and during the winters , it is a skiers’ paradise. 30 kilometers of snow-groomed pistes served both the rookies and the experts alike.

For those who have an unusual affection for history, Orlovaca cave system at a stone’s throw is a place where some pre-historic wonders await.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Jahorina, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read also:   Top 18 Most Iconic Landmarks in Europe

Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina rewards the tourists with a rare gem that nothing else in the whole of Balkan Peninsula can match. Yes, Mostar – a small town that screams history from every brick of Ottoman facades, from every crevice of Slavic architecture and every crack in Byzantine ruins.

The most iconic of all is the arched Old Bridge belittling the majestic Neretva that flows right through the heart of Mostar.

The bridge we see today is a reconstruction after the destruction brought down on it by the Bosniak-Croat conflict. The bridge is today a UNESCO World Heritage site .

Roaming through the streets, one comes across the Franciscan churches, mosques with arabesque decorations, and plenty of Oriental designs and Dalmatian builds.

And who could decline the thrill of drinking beer on open terraces overlooking the blue waters of the Neretva? In short, Mostar takes Bosnia and Herzegovina tourism to a whole new level.

Read also:   Europe Holidays: Top 10 Awesome Destinations for Holidays in Europe

For those who embark on Bosnia and Herzegovina travel, Blagaj is an absolute must on their bucket list . Sitting in the depths of Mostar Basin’s rocky gorges, Blagaj takes the spot right next to the point from where Buna River ruptures out into existence from the subterranean depths. The very mouth of the source of Buna is Blagaj’s most famous tourist spot.

For those who want to explore a bit more, they are blessed with visuals of the impressive Ottoman mansions overlooking the Byzantine-style arched bridges and more.

It is more of a cozy town with timber terraces that tuck in the tired travelers in a place of solitude. While it may be a possibility for the daring hero types to plunge deep into the subterranean Buna, it is not recommended.

But yes, the mystery is something that makes people wonder about the actual source of Buna. What makes Blagaj one of the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Buna spring : it is the whole of Europe’s mightiest spring with super cold water that dances right through the hearts of many villages, etching a surreal image that soothes even the most violent of all souls.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Blagaj, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read also:   Winter in Europe: Top 21 Winter Destinations in Europe

Blidinje Nature Park

An offbeat natural gem of the country, the Blidinje Nature Park is one of the least-trodden areas that retain the pre-Ottoman Orthodox traditions that Bosnia once had.

The national park is a wide plateau that is responsible for joining Vran and Cvrsnica peaks located at Bosnia and Herzegovina’s south-western edge. The park is famous for the Bosnian pines’ enormous trunks. The place is also known for its thick evergreen forests with whitebarks.

This natural park, which is one of the top Bosnia and Herzegovina points of interest, has meandering cobweb of marked hiking trails that the outdoorsy types and adrenalin junkies prefer most.

Read also:   26+ Best National Parks in Europe You Must Check Out!

Prokoško Lake

Of all the listed places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina , perhaps the most enchanting, most pristine, the most mystic, the most ethereal is the Prokoško Lake. No one should ever end his or her travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina without visiting this lake.

Sitting at the height of 1,600 meters above mean sea level, the Prokoško Lake is a “mountain eye.” Pastoral huts dotting the lush green stretches around the lake and numerous peaks of Vranica Mountains guarding the lake as hooded sentinels – this place is heaven in its way.

Come summer , and the golden sun rays kiss the green grass grazed upon by the bleating sheep and come winter – it switches into something stunning, something that can be rightly called as the enchanting winter fairytale.

This is just an otherworldly place that commands respect and spells love.

In a winter night, sit at the doorstep of a dimly lit mountain hut and look up at the sky dazzled by the stars, there couldn’t be possibly anything more beautiful than you can yearn for.

Read also:   The 20 Underrated Countries in Europe to Visit on Your Next Trip!

Located in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, this beautiful town is only about 30km away from one of the recently popular Dubrovnik or Split . Not only it makes a perfect day trip from Croatia tackling and hitting one bird with one stone tackling two countries in one trip, but Trebinje is also a must not miss destination in Bosnia and Herzegovina .

Lined with stunning mountains reflecting its beauty on the calmTrebinjsko Lake overlooking the beautiful town of Trebinje. You’ll find few wine tasting courses, a Serbian Orthodox Church, and Old Town vibe houses.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Trebinje, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read also:   2.5 Weeks Europe Itinerary: Travel around the Balkans by Bus

Počitelj

For about 30km ride from Mostar, you’ll find yourself in this small village in the municipality of Čapljina and located by the bank of river Neretva. This Ottoman-era fortress village is one of the most underrated but must-visit towns in Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially if you’re visiting Mostar as it is easier access than from the Capital, Sarajevo.

Other than that, visit its most iconic building, Gavrakapetan Tower and climb its towers for a beautiful panoramic view of the town.

→ Where to stay: Best hotels in Počitelj, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Read also:   Top 20 Cheap European Holiday Destinations and Countries to Visit

→ Check out these activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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