Things to Do in Bosniaandherzegovina

About Bosniaandherzegovina

Nestled in the heart of the Balkans, Bosnia and Herzegovina remains one of Europe's most authentic and undiscovered destinations, where East meets West in a captivating blend of Ottoman heritage and Austro-Hungarian elegance. This land of dramatic contrasts enchants visitors with its raw natural beauty, from emerald rivers cutting through limestone canyons to medieval villages perched on misty mountainsides. Beyond its stunning landscapes lies a profound story of resilience and revival, woven into the warm hospitality of people who welcome travelers not as tourists, but as honored guests.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: While the official currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM/KM), many places outside Sarajevo don't accept cards, so always carry cash—you'll find exchange offices offer better rates than ATMs, and euros are widely accepted at approximately 2 KM per euro.

• Coffee Culture Etiquette: When invited for Bosnian coffee, plan to stay at least 30-45 minutes as leaving quickly is considered rude; the coffee is served in a special džezva pot and sipped slowly from small cups while socializing.

• Landmine Awareness: Stick to paved roads, marked trails, and inhabited areas when exploring rural regions, as some areas still contain unmarked landmines from the 1990s war—look for warning signs with a skull and crossbones or red-and-white tape.

• Inter-Entity Travel: Be aware that Bosnia has two main administrative entities (Federation of BiH and Republika Srpska) with different public holidays, and while crossing between them is seamless for tourists, mobile roaming charges may apply if your provider treats them as separate networks.

When to Visit

When to Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina

The optimal time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina is late May through June and September through early October, when temperatures range from 18-26°C, avoiding both summer's intense heat and the tourist crowds that pack Mostar's Old Bridge and Sarajevo's Baščaršija during July-August peak season. Summer (July-August) brings temperatures exceeding 35°C in Herzegovina's valleys and significant crowds at major attractions, though this coincides with the Sarajevo Film Festival in mid-August and Mostar's diving competitions from the Stari Most bridge. Winter (December-March) transforms the country for budget travelers and ski enthusiasts, with Jahorina and Bjelašnica mountains offering affordable skiing with temperatures dropping to -5°C to 5°C, while Sarajevo becomes atmospheric under snow—though many coastal areas like Neum feel desolate, and mountain roads become treacherous or impassable. Spring arrives late (April-May) with unpredictable weather including sudden rain showers and temperatures ranging from 12-22°C, but rewards visitors with blooming landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower accommodation prices, though some mountain hiking trails remain muddy or snow-covered until late May. Ramadan (dates vary annually) affects restaurant hours in Muslim-majority areas, while Orthodox Christmas (January 7) and Catholic Christmas create a unique dual-celebration atmosphere worth experiencing despite the cold.