Bosnia and Herzegovina Traveler Essentials
- Capital
- Sarajevo
- Currency
- Convertible Mark (BAM KM)
- Best time to visit
- May to September offers warm days ideal for sightseeing and river adventures, while winter brings affordable skiing near Sarajevo.
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.
Getting around
Intercity buses are the primary mode as rail service is limited, while taxis are affordable in cities; renting a car helps reach remote canyons and villages.
Safety
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.
Tipping customs
Tipping around 10% in restaurants and rounding up for taxis and cafés is customary and appreciated.
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.