Bosnia and Herzegovina
Balkans · Europe
- Capital
- Sarajevo
- Currency
- Convertible Mark (BAM KM)
- Language
- Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
- Timezone
- UTC+1
- Safety rating
- 7.6/10
- Best time to visit
- May to September offers warm days ideal for sightseeing and river adventures, while winter brings affordable skiing near Sarajevo.
Overview
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a mountainous, multicultural crossroads where Ottoman bazaars, Austro-Hungarian facades, and Orthodox and Catholic churches sit side by side. The iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar, Sarajevo's haunting war history, and emerald rivers for rafting define its appeal. Coffee culture and hearty grilled ćevapi are everyday rituals.
Visa requirements
EU, US, UK, Canadian, Australian and many other nationals can stay visa-free for up to 90 days within 180 days with a valid passport.
Safety information
Cities are safe with low violent crime, but unexploded landmines remain in some rural and former front-line areas, so stick to marked paths and roads. Petty theft can occur in tourist hubs like Sarajevo and Mostar.
Travel tips
Cash in convertible marks is essential outside cities, though euros are sometimes accepted near tourist sites. Buses are the main intercity option and can be slow on mountain roads, so allow extra time. Local SIMs are cheap and connectivity in towns is reliable.