Bosnia & Herzegovina Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Sarajevo.

Geography:

Roughly triangular in shape and located at the geopolitical centre of the former Yugoslav Federation, Bosnia and Herzegovina shares borders with Serbia to the east, Montenegro to the southeast, and Croatia to the north and west. It has a short Adriatic coastline of approximately 20 km (12 miles) in the south, near the town of Neum, but no major ports.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Sarajevo International Airport (IATA: SJJ) is the main international airport in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

European airlines that offer flights to Sarajevo include Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, Pegasus, Ryanair, and Wizz.

Other airlines that fly to Sarajevo include Fly Dubai, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines.

Departure Tax

€1.5 per passenger.

Flight Times

From London – 2 hours 50 minutes.

From New York – 10 hours (including stopover).

Getting There By Road

One can drive to Bosnia and Herzegovina from Croatia, Serbia and Montenegro.

Bosnia's main roads and highways are generally in good condition, but rural and mountain roads can be narrow and winding. Toll roads exist, especially near major cities.

Winter driving can be challenging due to snow and ice, particularly in mountainous areas. Winter tyres are required from 15 November to 15 April.

Getting Around

Documentation

Foreign drivers should have an International Driving Permit, Green Card Insurance, and Vehicle Registration Documents.

Getting Around By Rail

Domestic rail travel in Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a scenic and affordable way to explore the country, though it is somewhat limited in coverage and frequency. The key routes are Sarajevo to Mostar, Sarajevo to Banja Luka, and Sarajevo to Doboj. Always check schedules in advance as they can change seasonally or due to infrastructure maintenance.

Regulations

Speed limits are typically 50 km/h (31 mph) in urban areas, 80 km/h (50 mph) on main roads, and 130 km/h (81 mph) on highways.

Seat belts are mandatory, and headlights are required during the day.

Winter tyres are required between 15 November and 15 April.

Getting Around By Road

Driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a rewarding experience, offering stunning views of its mountainous landscapes, historic towns, and unspoiled nature. However, beware that rural and mountain roads can be narrow, winding, and less well-maintained.

Visitors should exercise caution when travelling outside of main cities and towns. Unpaved roads should be avoidable. The risk of landmines has decreased in the last few years, and most mines remaining from the Bosnian War are now clearly marked with warning signs, often red triangles with the words "Pazi Mine" ("Beware of Mines").

The capital, Sarajevo, serves as the central hub for Bosnia and Herzegovina's main transport routes. Key routes include:
• Westward to Banja Luka and onwards to Zagreb, Croatia
• Northward to Doboj and then to Osijek, Croatia
• Eastward to Zvornik and Belgrade, Serbia
• Southward to Mostar and the Adriatic coast
• Southeastward to Foča and Podgorica, Montenegro

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

Metered taxis are plentiful in larger cities and tourist areas. Ride-hailing services like MojTaxi and Bolt are also available. Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the fare is common and appreciated.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Follow  FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook
• Travel Aware on Instagram

This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bosnia and Herzegovina Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Bosnia and Herzegovina, your passport must:

• have a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• have an 'expiry date' at least 90 days after the date you plan to leave

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid, undamaged travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can travel without a visa to Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days within a 6-month period. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

For all other types of travel, check the conditions for temporary residence or contact the Bosnia and Herzegovina Embassy in the UK.  

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit. If you do not have a stamp, the Border Police may fine you when you leave.

Staying longer than 90 days in a 6-month period

If you want to stay longer than 90 days within a 6-month period, apply for a residence permit. You must provide a document showing that you have no criminal record in the UK. The British Embassy is not able to issue such a document. You can get a copy of your police records before you travel.

For more information, see the Bosnia and Herzegovina government's page about residency and work permits.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Bosnia and Herzegovina guide.

Registering your stay

All foreign nationals must register with the police within 72 hours of arrival, at a local police station. Hotels and some hostels will usually register their guests. If your accommodation is not arranging this, you need to contact the nearest field centre ('terenski centar') for the Service for Foreigners' Affairs.

Travelling with children

Children aged 17 and under who are travelling unaccompanied or with an adult other than their parents, must carry a notarised letter giving permission for travel. The letter must be signed by a parent or guardian and give the name of the accompanying adult.

This also applies if only one parent is accompanying the child, particularly if they have a different surname to the child's.  

For further information contact the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the UK.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into and out of Bosnia and Herzegovina. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.     

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Terrorist attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be ruled out.

Previous attacks have included firearms attacks on government, law enforcement interests and the public. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.

Political situation

Public protests occur from time to time and can cause traffic disruption. Protests are normally peaceful. There is a risk of violent incidents linked to locally controversial issues, usually from the conflict of the 1990s.

There has been an increase in anti-UK rhetoric from some politicians in the Republika Srpska (one of the entities that makes up the State of Bosnia and Herzegovina). This could translate into wider anti-UK sentiment. Monitor local media so you can avoid planned political demonstrations and move away if you see protestors gathering.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Beware of pickpockets and bag-snatchers on public transport and in the tourist and pedestrian areas of Sarajevo and other cities. Make sure personal belongings, including your passport, are secure. Obvious displays of wealth, including large quantities of cash or jewellery and luxury vehicles can make you a target for opportunist thieves.

There has been an increase in thefts from cars in popular tourist areas in and around Sarajevo, particularly on Mount Trebevic. Make sure your vehicle is locked and your belongings are out of sight. Take particular care in areas popular with foreign tourists and in crowded public venues.

Organised crime 

Incidents of violence between organised crime groups can happen, including shootings. You are unlikely to be targeted. Remain vigilant and follow the advice of the police in the event of an incident.

Old landmines and unexploded weapons

Landmines and other unexploded weapons remain from the 1992 to 1995 war. While highly populated areas and major routes are largely clear, there is still a risk in less populated and rural areas. Do not step off roads and paved areas without an experienced guide. Take care near:

• the former lines of conflict
• the edge of roads
• the open countryside
• destroyed or abandoned buildings (including in towns)
• neglected land
• untarred roads
• woods and orchards

For further information, see Mine Action Centre.

Laws and cultural differences

Personal ID

Always carry your passport or official photo ID with you. You must be able to show some form of identification if required, including when checking into hotels. For more information, see the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Dealing with the police

Local police do not always have English language skills and you may need the services of a translator.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The dates vary by year and country.

You should:

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from other guests
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but LGBT+ communities continue to report incidents of discrimination and even violence. Showing affection in public is likely to be frowned upon and may receive unwelcome attention.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Check that your travel and medical insurance cover you for any adventure activities and sports.

Diving

Diving off Mostar bridge is dangerous and has resulted in serious injuries and fatalities.

Rafting

Take care when white-water rafting in rivers or close to waterfalls. Currents can be extremely strong.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC's Bosnia and Herzegovina guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of.

Your UK driving licence is valid as long as you're driving your own vehicle or a car hired outside of Bosnia and Herzegovina. If you're renting or using someone else's vehicle within the country, you must also have the 1968 version of the international driving permit (IDP) with you in the car.

You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK. 

If you're staying longer than 6 months, you will need to get a local driving licence. See living in Bosnia and Herzegovina for more details.

Contact the Bosnia and Herzegovina Embassy in the UK if you have questions about bringing a vehicle into the country. The British Embassy will not be able to help if you do not have the correct documentation.

If you are involved in an accident, stay at the scene and do not move your vehicle until the police arrive. Traffic police can impose on-the-spot fines for any traffic offence.

Border insurance

It's illegal to drive without at least third-party insurance. The Border Police can request printed documents to show you have it.

Check your insurance is valid in Bosnia and Herzegovina. If it's not, you can buy 'border insurance' at the crossings at:

• Bijaca
• Crveni Grm (south)
• Izacici (west)
• Kamensko
• Karakaj and Raca (east)
• Samac (north-east)
• Zubci (south-east)
• Doljan

Winter equipment requirements

Take care when travelling outside the main towns and cities in winter, as road conditions can worsen quickly.

Between November and April you must:

• have tyres with an MS, M+S or M&S mark and a stylised symbol of a snowflake – the tread should be at least 4 millimetres deep
• carry snow chains and use them when road signs tell you to

Taxis

Official taxis in Sarajevo and the major towns are well-regulated and metered. Taxi drivers from the Republika Srpska might refuse to drive to a destination in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the same from the Federation to the Republika Srpska.

Taxi drivers at Sarajevo airport taxi rank may try to charge a 'fixed price' fare, rather than use a meter, or charge for luggage. Make sure you agree a price before setting off. Better deals may be available by pre-booking a taxi from an established taxi service.

Do not use unlicensed taxis.

Air travel

Sarajevo (Butmir) International Airport is prone to fog, causing flights to be delayed or cancelled during the winter months, particularly in December and January. Many airlines will not arrange accommodation when delays are caused by bad weather. You may need to find and pay for somewhere to stay.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Wildfires

Wildfires are possible in Bosnia and Herzegovina from April to October due to the dry and hot weather.  Wildfires are highly dangerous and unpredictable. You should: 

• take care when visiting or driving through countryside 

• make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished 

• not light fires or barbecues except in designated and marked areas 

• not leave any rubbish 

If you see a wildfire, call the emergency services on 112. Follow any advice from the police or local authorities.

Flooding

Parts of central Bosnia and Herzegovina are severely affected by floods and landslides due to heavy rain. Road and rail links between Sarajevo and Mostar are severely impacted. Check and follow advice from local authorities.

Flash floods and landslides are a risk in all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina after heavy rain. Follow instructions from local officials and traffic police.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes and small tremors are recorded throughout the year, usually without serious consequences. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 124 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Bosnia and Herzegovina
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Bosnia and Herzegovina, including biting insects and ticks.

High levels of air pollution can happen across the country. See air quality guidance on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

Pharmacies may not recognise prescriptions issued in the UK. Take your prescription to a local doctor who can issue a prescription to use in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Medical and dental facilities, particularly outside Sarajevo and major towns, are limited.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) do not cover Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ensure that you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Bosnia and Herzegovina where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Ambulance: 124

Fire: 123

Police: 122

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• dealing with a death in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• being arrested in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Help abroad

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency.

Help in the UK

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Follow FCDO: 

• travel advice on X
• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Bosnia and Herzegovina on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Overview:

Healthcare facilities are better in urban areas like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka, but rural areas may face shortages of resources and personnel. Most healthcare services in Bosnia require payment at the time of treatment, especially for tourists. Having cash on hand is important as card payments may not be widely accepted in smaller clinics. Tourists should take out full travel and medical insurance before travelling to Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Food Drink:

Tap water in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally of good quality and safe to drink in most areas, especially in urban centres. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit, and vegetables are considered safe to consume, but as a precaution, it is advisable to peel fruits and vegetables and ensure that meat and fish are thoroughly cooked. Unpasteurised milk should be boiled before consumption, and dairy products made from unboiled milk are best avoided to minimise health risks.

Other Risks:

Immunisation against hepatitis B, tuberculosis and tick-borne encephalitis is recommended. Rabies is present. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay.

Currency Information:

Bosnia and Herzegovina Konvertibilna Marka (BAM; symbol KM) = 100 feninga. Notes are in denominations of KM200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of KM2 and KM1, and 50, 20 and 10 feninga.

In some tourist areas, Euro banknotes (but not coins) are accepted.

Credit Cards:

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, and sometimes American Express) are widely accepted in Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka, and other major cities.

ATMs:

ATMs are widely available, and they dispense BAM (the Konvertibilna Marka).

Travellers Cheques:

Traveller's cheques are obsolete in Bosnia and Herzegovina, as they are in most parts of the world.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0800-1900.

Currency Restrictions:

Travellers must declare if they are bringing in/ out amounts exceeding EUR 10,000 or equivalent.

Currency Exchange:

The Euro and US Dollar are the most commonly accepted foreign currencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in tourist areas. Some shops, especially in tourist hubs, will accept Euro cash for payment, often at an informal exchange rate.

Currencies

Exchange Rates

Language

The official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina are Bosnian, Serbian, and Croatian. While all three languages are mutually intelligible, they are associated with the country's three main ethnic groups. Bosniaks and Croats predominantly use the Latin alphabet, whereas Serbs primarily use the Cyrillic alphabet. However, the Latin alphabet is also widely understood and used by the Serb population, especially in mixed or urban areas.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

List Of Public Holidays

Note:

In addition to the Public Holidays listed, the government of Bosnia and Herzegovina has decided to allow its citizens two working days per year to fulfil their religious needs. These days are not considered official holidays and the measure has been introduced to respect the religious and ethnic diversity of the country.

Overview:

The following goods may be imported into Bosnia and Herzegovina by travellers aged 17 and over without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g of tobacco.
• 1L of spirits over 22%, or 2L of spirits less than 22%.
• 4L of wine.
• 16L of beer.
• Gifts and souvenirs to the value of KM600.

Banned Imports:

Weapons, explosives, illegal drugs, counterfeit items, pornographic material, and endangered species are not allowed.

Mobile Telephone:

Mobile coverage in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally reliable in urban areas like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka, as well as along major roads and highways. However, coverage can be patchy or unavailable in rural and mountainous regions. Tourists should plan accordingly if travelling to remote areas.

The major telcos are BH Telecom, m:tel, and HT Eronet.

Internet:

Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafés, especially in tourist areas.

Media:

Media freedom in Bosnia and Herzegovina is classified as partially free, with significant challenges stemming from political pressures, ethnic divisions, and financial instability within the media sector.

Online platforms are increasingly popular but face challenges like disinformation and cyber harassment.

Online platforms that provide news in English include Sarajevo Times, Balkan Insight, Total Bosnia and Herzegovina News, and Al Jazeera Balkans (English versions).

Sarajevo

Sarajevo's Baščaršija (Old Town) is the city's cultural heart, with its Ottoman-era bazaar, craft shops, and the iconic Sebilj Fountain. The Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, offers a deep dive into pivotal historical events. For a more recent chapter in history, the Tunnel of Hope - used to smuggle supplies during the Siege of Sarajevo - provides an immersive experience. Beyond history, the tranquil Vrelo Bosne Park at the Bosna River's spring offers a serene escape.

Banja Luka

Bosnia and Herzegovina's second-largest city, Banja Luka, is a hidden gem that provides a refreshing escape from the crowds. Highlights include the Ferhadija Mosque and the medieval Kastel Fortress. Banja Luka also boasts a lively arts scene, centred around venues like the Banski Dvor Cultural Centre.

Mostar

Mostar's Stari Most (Old Bridge), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the city's crown jewel, symbolising unity and resilience after its reconstruction. Nearby, the Kujundžiluk (Old Bazaar) is a lively hub of cobbled streets and artisan shops, while the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque offers stunning views of the Old Bridge and the Neretva River from its minaret.

Počitelj

The historic town of Počitelj is a well-preserved medieval gem. Stroll its cobbled streets to discover an Ottoman-era mosque, stone houses, and a fortress offering breathtaking views of the Neretva River.

Jajce

Jajce's Pliva Waterfall, where two rivers converge, is an extraordinary sight, while the nearby Pliva Lakes are perfect for boating and fishing. The town's medieval fortress provides panoramic views and a glimpse into Bosnia's storied past.

Neum

Neum is Bosnia's only coastal town, and it provides access to the Adriatic Sea, with relaxing beaches, fresh seafood, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Una National Park

Štrbački Buk Waterfall and Martin Brod Waterfalls are the highlights of Una National Park, offering opportunities for kayaking, hiking, and wildlife spotting amidst pristine landscapes.

Sutjeska National Park

Home to the Perućica Forest, one of Europe's last remaining primeval forests, Sutjeska National Park also features Mount Maglić, Bosnia's highest peak, ideal for hikers seeking adventure.

Mount Bjelašnica and Jahorina

These mountains, venues for the 1984 Winter Olympics, are ideal for skiing in winter and hiking in summer.

Overview

Bosnia is famous for its handcrafted copper items, especially coffee sets, trays, and decorative plates. These are often engraved with intricate designs and are a nod to the country's Ottoman heritage. Look for a džezva (traditional coffee pot) as a practical and beautiful keepsake. Handwoven rugs and kilims with traditional Bosnian patterns are full of character, while wooden crafts, especially svirala (a Bosnian pinewood flute), also make a great gift.

We recommend shoppers check out bazaars, local markets, and family-run workshops.

Shopping tips are:
• Negotiate prices: Bargaining is common in markets, but always do so respectfully.
• Check for authenticity: Ensure you are buying genuine handcrafted items, not mass-produced replicas.
• Support local artisans: Purchasing directly from workshops helps sustain traditional crafts and small businesses.

Opening Hours

0800-2000.

Overview

Like much of the Balkans, the cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina reflects the rich interplay of cultures that have shaped the region over centuries. The Ottoman Turks, who ruled the area from the 15th century, left perhaps the most significant mark on the culinary landscape, introducing lamb and beef sausages, filo pastries, spiced meats, and kebabs, all of which remain staples of Bosnian cuisine today. However, the country's gastronomy is more than Ottoman-inspired. Hearty soups and stews are common, and the influence of Austrian rule is also evident in the use of pastries and desserts. The Herzegovina region, meanwhile, is celebrated for its excellent wines.

Regional Specialities

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory in Bosnia, but it is appreciated for good service. A 10% tip is considered generous and is common in touristy restaurants. In casual dining settings or cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving some small change (e.g., 5-10 BAM) is also acceptable.

Drinking Age

The legal drinking age is 18.

Hotels

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from modern hotels to charming B&Bs and guesthouses.

Hotels in Bosnia and Herzegovina are generally affordable compared to Western Europe, with mid-range options offering good value for money. Availability can vary, especially during the summer tourist season or winter holidays in ski resorts like Jahorina.

For a unique experience, consider eco-lodges or agritourism stays in Bosnia's picturesque countryside.

Other

History

Once part of the Roman province of Dalmatia, Bosnia transitioned through Gothic and Byzantine rule before emerging as an independent state in 1180. Under strong rulers, it expanded southwards to include Hum (modern-day Herzegovina) until the Ottomans took control in 1463. Ottoman rule shaped Bosnia profoundly, with much of the population converting to Islam and the region serving as a defensive frontier against European incursions, leading to repeated invasions and unrest.

By the late 19th century, Ottoman power waned, and Bosnia was assigned to the Austro-Hungarian Empire after the Russo-Turkish War of 1876. Austria's full annexation in 1908 triggered tensions that culminated in the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in Sarajevo in 1914, a key event sparking World War I. After the War, Bosnia was incorporated into the Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes (renamed Yugoslavia in 1929).

During the Communist era (1945–1990), Bosnia became a constituent republic of Yugoslavia, with ethnic tensions suppressed under Tito's regime. However, with Yugoslavia's collapse in the 1990s, Bosnia became a battleground marked by ethnic conflict and atrocities, including ethnic cleansing, until NATO intervened. The Dayton Agreement in 1995 brought peace, though Bosnia remains politically divided and economically fragile.

Did you know?
• The Siege of Sarajevo (1992–1996) lasted nearly four years, making it the longest siege of a capital city in modern history - outlasting even the Siege of Leningrad during World War II.
• Sarajevo hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, a proud moment for the city, but much of the infrastructure, including ski runs and bobsled tracks, was destroyed or used as target practice during the Bosnian War in the 1990s.
• The 2014 FIFA World Cup marked Bosnia and Herzegovina's debut in a major international football tournament, a historic achievement for the nation.

Religion

50.7% Muslim, 30.7% Eastern Orthodox Christians, 15.2% Roman Catholics, 3.4% Others.

Social Conventions

Bosnia and Herzegovina is characterised by its ethnic and religious diversity, and visitors should respect the customs and traditions of its various communities. The main ethnic groups are Bosniaks (48%, primarily Muslims), Serbs (37.1%, predominantly Eastern Orthodox Christians), and Croats (14.3%, mostly Roman Catholics). While alcohol consumption is generally accepted, drinking in public spaces may be considered offensive by more observant Muslims. Visitors should avoid discussing sensitive topics such as the Bosnian War or political and ethnic divisions to maintain cultural sensitivity and respect.

Best Time To Visit:

Dominated by mountainous and hilly terrain, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a land of striking geographical contrasts. The country is drained by two major rivers, including the Sava River to the north, which forms a natural border with Croatia, and the Drina River to the east, flowing along the border with Serbia. Bosnia and Herzegovina's climate is as variable as the rest of the former Yugoslav federation, shaped by its diverse topography and proximity to both continental and Mediterranean influences.

The majority of the country experiences moderate continental climatic conditions, characterised by cold winters and hot summers. In the mountains, winters are particularly harsh, with heavy snowfall and sub-zero temperatures, making these areas popular for skiing and winter sports. Summers in these regions are mild, providing a refreshing escape from the heat of the lower elevations.

In contrast, the southern Herzegovina region enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with milder winters and long, hot summers. This area is known for its vineyards and olive groves, which thrive in warm, dry conditions. The country's diverse climate contributes to its rich biodiversity and allows for a variety of outdoor activities, from winter skiing in the Dinaric Alps to river rafting and hiking in the warmer months.

The best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina depends on the activities you're interested in, as the country offers distinct attractions in every season. For example:

Spring (March to May): Best for outdoor activities in national parks like Una and Sutjeska, with lush greenery and blooming wildflowers. Expect pleasant temperatures (15–25°C / 59–77°F) and relatively low rainfall.

Summer (June to August): Ideal for enjoying the Adriatic coastline in Neum, attending festivals like the Sarajevo Film Festival, and exploring historic towns like Mostar. Temperatures can reach up to 35°C (95°F) in Herzegovina, with milder weather in mountainous areas. Note that tourist spots may be busier.

Autumn (September to November): A quieter time to explore cities, historical sites, and vineyards during grape harvest season. The autumn foliage adds stunning colours to the countryside, with cool and comfortable temperatures (10–20°C / 50–68°F).

Winter (December to February): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding at resorts like Jahorina and Bjelašnica. Expect cold temperatures in the mountains and heavy snowfall, with milder weather in southern Herzegovina.

Required Clothing

In winter, heavyweight clothing and an overcoat are essential, especially in mountainous regions where temperatures can drop significantly. In summer, lightweight clothing and a raincoat are recommended, with mediumweight layers necessary for cooler and wetter conditions in the north and at higher altitudes elsewhere.

Dialing Code:

Area(sq km):

Population:

Population Density(per sq km):

Population Year:

EU Member:

Main emergency number