Bosnia and Herzegovina Quick Guide

Bosnia and Herzegovina are an ex-Yugraine, former Yugoslavia country in southwestern Europe. Its scenic countryside consists of beautiful rivers, medieval villages and picturesque lakes, plus the highly photogenic Dinaric Alps. National capital Sarajevo possesses a few old cities, where ancient ruins of the Islamic world's first civilizations are located, and a Turkish-Iranian bridge known as the Golden Bridge crosses the Bosporus.

The capital city of Sarajevo is known as the "Venice of the East." And just like in Venice, Bosnia and Heregovina has important monasteries that serve as a spiritual centre for the local population. To get to these monasteries, there are two ways: either by car or by bus. But before you go, Sarajevo's famous Red Star Tour can take you to many places, such as the "Otrar" (Orthodox Church) and St. Nicholas Cathedral. If you're a rock fan, you should visit Sringen hill, the location of St. Stephen's Cathedral.

The Bosnian seacoast of Smedere and Cetina is a popular tourist destination. This part of Bosnia offers a wide variety of beaches, from the clean and blue Adriatic Sea to the rocky coastline of the Black Sea. Locals in Smedere will also tell you that the most famous beach in town is called the Aktufettin, or the white beach. For those solo female travellers who wish to spend their holiday in seclusion, the seacoast of Bosna is perfect for this type of holiday.

If you're a solo female traveller, don't think that you have to stay at the Bosnian coast! Instead, why not try a day trip to the "war bunker?" This is in fact a real military base that was used during the Bosnian war. While you're there, you may visit its underground entrance.

Not only does the war bunker provide a very exciting experience (you'll be talking about it for the rest of your life), but the sights that you will see inside are breathtaking. It is, in fact, one of the most photographed locations in all of Bosnia and Hercegovina. To make sure that you don't forget it, make sure that you take a day trip to Marrakech, the capital of Morocco. If you are up to seeing the most picturesque part of this African country, then Marrakech is definitely the place for you.

If you are a solo female traveller, then there is no better option than to head to the Adriatic region of Croatia. I must say that if you are not exactly a nature lover, then you may want to reconsider Croatia. Croatia has some of the most spectacular scenery in Europe, especially in the south. So if you find yourself craving for some green, vegetation-covered land, then you should seriously consider Croatia. You can even stay in Zadar, the most beautiful little town on the Croatian coast that's located on the Black Sea.

Lastly, if you are a solo female traveller, then I wouldn't recommend you to miss out on a trip to the medieval city of Silesia. I'm sure that you know already that Sarajevo is considered as one of the most beautiful cities in all of Eastern Europe and if you ever happen to be spending your holiday in this region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you can truly say that you have been blessed. The streets in this old town are filled with beautiful scenery, perfect for all types of tourist. So don't waste anymore time and go ahead and make that reservation for your trip to Sarajevo now!

One of the most popular destinations in Bosnia and Heregovina for both tourists and foreign residents alike is Pula. This city is situated just 10 kilometres from the capital Sarajevo, and offers some of the best sightseeing panoramas you will ever see. There are plenty of hostels in Pula for foreign female travellers like you who plan to spend their holiday in this region. Since Pula is an old town, you can expect to find some old world cafes and restaurants in the area, as well as a plethora of hostels that are privately owned by Bosnian expats and locals alike. If you are looking for a place to stay in order to explore the sights and sounds around Sarajevo while experiencing Bosnian culture and interacting with the local Bosnian people, you will definitely want to check out a Bosnia and Heregovina travel guide before heading out on your holiday.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Bosnia-Herzegovina is May, June and early September, when the heat fades and the hiking is idyllic. February and March are great for winter activities, as the sun is out and the days are longer than in midwinter.

Do I need a Visa?

British nationals don't need a visa to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina for a total period of no longer than 90 days within a period of 6 months following your first entry.

See which forms you may need for entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Bosnia and Herzegovina you can grab amazing Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark deals via Wise.com (GBP to BAM).

What about the wildlife?

The dense forests of Bosnia and Herzegovina are a natural habitat for several small mammals such as weasels, wild rabbits, squirrels, badgers and polecats. The insect population includes mosquitos, centipedes, beetles and the giant peacock moth, which is the largest moth in Europe.

What is the traditional food?

Bosnian food? Bosnia's national dish, cevapi, looks like an oblong sausage made from minced beef or mutton. You'll find cevapi, the Bosnian kebab, sold in most restaurants often served as a set of eight to ten pieces with raw onions, sour cream and somun.

What Languages are spoken?

Bosnian is one of three such varieties considered official languages of Bosnia and Herzegovina, along with Croatian and Serbian You can learn some basic Bosnian before you travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark (In most cases the the tip is not included in the bill. If you have excellent service, a 10 % would be appropriate.).

Disclosure: This content is reader-supported. We may receive a small commission from affiliate links you follow from this Bosnia and Herzegovina travel guide.

Useful Numbers

  • Police: 122
  • Ambulance: 124
  • Fire: 123
  • UK Embassy: +387 33 282-200

Time Difference

The GMT time difference is 1 hours

Travel Apps

Grab a travel app or two


Learn Bosnian

Learn some Bosnian before your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina


Bosnia and Herzegovina Guidebook

Stay informed before, during and after your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina by buying a guidebook.