Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a journey that is both beautiful and deeply moving. The country's recent past is evident in cities like Sarajevo, which has recovered remarkably from the devastating siege of the 1990s, and Mostar, where the rebuilt Stari Most (Old Bridge) stands as a powerful symbol of reconciliation. The culture is a fascinating mix of East and West, with mosques and churches standing side-by-side in historic old towns.

Beyond the cities, the landscape is a paradise for nature lovers. The country is covered in lush mountains and forests, with turquoise rivers like the Neretva and Una offering opportunities for rafting and kayaking. With fewer crowds than its Adriatic neighbors and an incredible value for money, Bosnia and Herzegovina provides a profound and authentic European travel experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Rich History: Explore the unique cultural crossroads of Sarajevo and witness the iconic Stari Most in Mostar.
• Stunning Nature: Discover a landscape of pristine rivers, dramatic canyons, lush mountains, and beautiful waterfalls like Kravica.
• Incredible Value: Enjoy one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations, with low prices for food, accommodation, and activities.
• Authentic Culture: Experience the warm hospitality, delicious food, and strong coffee culture of the Bosnian people.

Things to Avoid

• Discussing the War Insensitively: The Bosnian War is a recent and painful memory. Be respectful, listen with empathy, and avoid making simplistic or uninformed statements.
• Straying from Marked Paths: In remote rural and mountainous areas, there is still a risk of unexploded landmines. Never wander off marked trails and paths.
• Drinking Tap Water in Some Areas: While tap water is generally safe in Sarajevo, it's advisable to stick to bottled water in other parts of the country.
• Expecting Fast-Paced Travel: Public transportation can be slow. Embrace the relaxed pace of life and don't try to cram too much into one day.

Local Transportation Tips

Travel between major cities like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka is best done by a modern and comfortable intercity bus network. The train system is less extensive but offers some very scenic routes, notably the journey between Sarajevo and Mostar. Within cities, trams and buses are common in Sarajevo, while Mostar's old town is best explored on foot.

Travel Etiquette

• Greetings: A friendly handshake is the common form of greeting.
• Coffee Culture: Bosnian coffee is a social ritual. It is served strong and unfiltered in a traditional pot ('džezva') and is meant to be sipped and enjoyed slowly.
• Respect for Religion: When visiting mosques or churches, dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Women should bring a scarf to cover their head in mosques.
• Removing Shoes: It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home.

Did You Know?

Did you know? Sarajevo hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, a moment of great pride for the city and all of former Yugoslavia. Many of the Olympic venues, such as the bobsleigh track, can still be visited today as poignant, overgrown ruins.

Cool Bosnia and Herzegovina Stats

• Heart-Shaped Land: Bosnia and Herzegovina is often affectionately called the "Heart-Shaped Land" due to the general shape of its territory on a map.
• Primeval Forest: The country is home to the Perućica primeval forest, one of the last remaining old-growth forests in Europe.
• Bridge Divers: The tradition of diving off the 24-meter-high Stari Most in Mostar is a rite of passage for local young men, dating back centuries.

Recommended Age Group

Bosnia and Herzegovina is most suitable for Adults and mature Teens who have an interest in history, culture, and nature.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended. The infrastructure is not well-suited for traveling with infants, and the historical topics are very heavy.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not generally recommended. The primary attractions are historical and may be difficult for young children to understand or appreciate.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended for mature teens. The history is profound and educational, and the natural landscapes offer adventure.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. The country offers a deeply rewarding and thought-provoking experience for adults interested in history, culture, and outdoor beauty.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended with considerations. Active seniors will enjoy the history, but should be prepared for cobblestone streets and a lot of walking.

Accessibility Level: Low

• The country faces significant accessibility challenges due to historic infrastructure and hilly terrain.
• The cobblestone streets in the old towns of Sarajevo and Mostar are very difficult for wheelchair users.
• Public transport is generally not accessible, and accessible hotel rooms are rare outside of new, international hotels in Sarajevo.
• Many historical sites and natural attractions do not have accessible infrastructure.