Bosnia & Herzegovina is a must-visit destination in the heart of the Balkans. Its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty make a mixture that attracts lots of people. This country offers a unique blend of East and West. Ancient Ottoman architecture coexists with medieval fortresses and picturesque landscapes. Bosnia & Herzegovina is known as the “Heart-Shaped Land” due to its map outline. It has iconic sites like the UNESCO-listed Stari Most in Mostar and Sarajevo, a lively capital where various cultures have lived together for centuries
The country’s natural beauty is stunning, with clean rivers, impressive mountains, and peaceful lakes that are perfect for outdoor activities. Bosnia & Herzegovina, with its rich history and friendly people, offers a travel experience that’s both memorable and unique.
Useful Information
Language: There are three official languages: Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian. English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas, thus it wont be a problem to navigate.
Currency: The official currency is Bosnian Convertible Mark (BAM). Debit and credit cards are accepted in most places. However, carry some cash when yo go to smaller towns or country side.
Transport: The public transport network is functional, but not so well developed as in some European countries. Best option for traveling between major cities and towns are busses. Trains here have limited routes and can be quite slow. If you want to explore the countryside or hidden gems on your own, then rent a car. International rental companies like Avis and Europcar operate in Bosnia & Herzegovina, along with local options like Guma X.
Safety: Bosnia & Herzegovina is generally a safe country for tourist. However, as it's always recommended, keep an eye on your belongins when you are in crowded places.
Climate: The climate varies across the country. The southern regions have a Mediterranean climate. The central and northern areas have more continental weather, with cold winters and warm summers.
Must-See Places in Bosnia & Herzegovina
Sarajevo: Start with Baščaršija, the old bazaar dating back to the 15th century, where you can sip traditional Bosnian coffee and explore shops selling local crafts. Don't miss Sebilj Fountain in the heart of bazaar. It is a wooden fountain in Ottoman style. Famous for it's unique design and for being a symbol of Sarajevo. Visit the Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, built in the 16th century. It is one of the most important Ottoman structures in the Balkans, known for its beautiful courtyard and striking minaret. Don’t miss the Latin Bridge where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was shot in 1914, that was a start of World War I.
Explore the Sarajevo City Hall (Vijećnica). It was built in the end of the 19th century and features a mix of Neo-Moorish and Neo-Gothic styles. Don't pass by the Sacred Heart Cathedral. It is the largest catholic cathedral in Bosnia & Herzegovina, built in Neo-Gothic style. Another place to see is Svrzo’s House, an 18th-century Ottoman-era residence. It shows Sarajevo’s rich mix of religiobs and cultures. For beautiful panoramic views of the city, you should go to the Yellow Fortress, the old fort of 18th century.
Mostar: The Stari Most bridge is a must-see spot. Built in the 16th century, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the old town’s narrow streets, which are full of souvenir shops and cozy cafes. Visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque of the 17th century. Look at its beautiful coloruly interior. It also offers amazing views of the city and the Neretva River. Don’t miss the Kajtaz House. It is a well-preserved 16th-century home. There, you can see how a wealthy family lived during Ottoman period. Also, go to the Old Bazaar (Bazar Kujundžiluk). It is one of the oldest parts of the city. You still can feel there its historic charm while exploring various traditional shops there.
Blagaj: Just a short drive from Mostar. It is known for the peaceful Blagaj Tekke, a Dervish monastery of the 16th century, which is located at the base of a cliff by the Buna River. It’s a nice place to visit. It combines history and beautiful nature. In addition, the nearby restaurants serve fresh river trout, a local specialty. You can go to Blagaj Fort, also called Stjepan-grad, which dates back to the 15th century and offers amazing views of landscapes.
Jajce: Is a historic town known for its beautiful waterfall. It was once a home to medieval Bosnian kings before the kingdom fell to the Ottomans in the 15th century. Go to Jajce Fortress. This is where kings resided. This fortress offers an interesting historical experience. In addition, you will get great views of the town and the surrounding area. After, visit the Church of St. Mary. It was built in the 12th century and was the place where Bosnian kings were crowned. Enjoy a boat ride on the Pliva Lakes and check out the old watermills on the Pliva River. They add charm to the area. Don’t miss the Catacombs of Jajce, an underground church carved out in the 15th century, which is also worth seeing.
Una National Park: It is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park features the stunning Štrbački Buk waterfalls and clear rivers that are perfect for rafting. You can also visit the ancient town of Ostrovica and explore the ruins of the 13th-century Ostrovica Fortress. The park has plenty of hiking trails, allowing you to fully enjoy its natural beauty. Additionally, you can explore the peaceful Rmanj Monastery, founded in 1443, located within the park. During the Ottoman rule, the monastery went through tough times. It was destroyed and rebuilt several times because of conflicts and pressure from the Ottoman authorities. It is an active Serbian Orthodox monastery.
Hidden Gems
Počitelj: This small village on the banks of the Neretva River feels like a trip back in time. Počitelj is known for its well-preserved stone houses, fortifications, and the impressive Sahat-kula (clock tower), a sample of beautiful Ottoman architecture. Also, visit the Gavrankapetanović House, a traditional Ottoman home that tells about the village's past.
Travnik: It has a rich history, but often missed by visitors. Travnik was once the capital of the Ottoman province of Bosnia, and you can still explore the old fortress that overlooks the town. It offers great views and a sense of its past. The colorful old houses add to its charm. Travnik is also famous for its ćevapi (grilled meat sausages), considered some of the best in the country. Don’t miss the Sulejmanija Mosque, built in the 16th century, and the traditional Travnik Castle, which dates back to the medieval period.
Vjetrenica Cave: For those seeking adventure, Vjetrenica Cave in the south of the country is a must-visit. This vast cave system is famous for its impressive stalactites, underground streams, and rich biodiversity. Guided tours will take you through the most accessible parts, showing the cave's natural beauty and unique formations. Also, nearby, you can visit the ancient village of Zavala. There, you’ll find the Zavala Monastery, belonging to the Serbian Orthodox Church, It is a serene place with beautiful frescoes dating back to the 16th century.
Culinary Delights
Ćevapi: This classic Bosnian dish. Small, grilled sausages made from a mixture of beef and lamb. Served with somun, a soft bread, along with chopped onions and a spread of ajvar, a vibrant pepper relish. Ćevapi is a must-try for anyone visiting Bosnia.
Bosanski Lonac: A traditional stew. Bosanski Lonac includes various meats such as beef, lamb, or veal, along with vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Everything is slow-cooked in a clay pot, allowing the flavors to blend into a rich, hearty meal perfect for cold weather.
Begova Čorba: Also known as Bey’s Soup. It is a rich, creamy chicken soup filled with tender chicken, carrots, parsnips, and potatos, along with okra. It has a slightly thick texture and offers a comforting warmth, tracing its origins back to the Ottoman period.
Sogan-Dolma: This dish consists of onions hollowed out and stuffed with a savory blend of minced meat, rice, and spices, like paprika, black pepper, allspice, cinnamon and garlic powder. They are then cooked slowly in a flavorful broth, making the onions tender and delicious, ideal for a hearty main course or a flavorful side dish.
Tufahija: A traditional dessert in Bosnia. Tufahija consists of poached apples stuffed with a sweet walnut filling. The filling mixes walnuts and sugar into a nutty paste, flavored with cinnamon, lemon zest, and vanilla. The apples are cooked until tender, soaked in syrup, and typically topped with whipped cream or nuts, making them a delightful treat.
Hurmasice: These are small, finger-shaped pastries that become incredibly sweet and sticky as they're soaked in a lemon-flavored syrup after baking. Made from a simple dough of flour, butter, and eggs, Hurmasice are a popular choice during festive occasions in Bosnia.
Souvenirs to Cherish
Copperware: In Bosnia & Herzegovina, skilled artisans create copper coffee sets that are not only practical but also beautifully. These sets are engraved with unique designs. They reflect traditional craftsmanship and make excellent gifts or additions to your kitchen.
Carpets and Kilims: Handwoven carpets and kilims are traditional Bosnian handicrafts that feature vibrant colors and durable materials. Each piece is unique, displaying patterns that tell stories of Bosnian culture. They're perfect for adding warmth and style to any room.
Filigree Jewelry: This jewelry is crafted from silver. It is a delicate process of twisting thin wires into elaborate designs. Filigree jewelry from Bosnia is known for its elegance and detail, making it a special gift that carries the heritage of Bosnian metalworking.
Plum Brandy (Rakija): Rakija is a popular traditional spirit in Bosnia, primarily distilled from plums. It has a strong flavor and is usually sipped slowly to savor its taste. Bringing home a bottle of Rakija offers a slice of Bosnian hospitality and celebration.
Staying Connected with Bosnia & Herzegovina JetSet eSIM
Stay connected during your travels in Bosnia & Herzegovina with local eSIM plans, offering easy setup, no roaming fees, and tailored for the period of your stay. Whether you’re sharing photos of Mostar’s Old Bridge or navigating through Sarajevo’s bustling streets, a local eSIM will keep you connected effortlessly.
Enjoy your journey through Bosnia & Herzegovina, a country where history and nature combine to create an unforgettable travel experience. Should you need to get another Bosnia & Herzegovina eSIM, you can easily do that online.
Sretan put! (Happy travels!)
