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Bosnia and Herzegovina

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Bosnia and Herzegovina

Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country located in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, where East meets West and where you can experience a unique blend of cultures and traditions.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has something to offer to every type of tourist, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventurer seeking new experiences.

If you’re interested in history and culture, Sarajevo, the capital city, is a must-see destination. It’s known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” due to its long and complex history of religious coexistence. Here, you can visit the historic Baščaršija bazaar, the Sebilj fountain, the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, and the Latin Bridge, the site where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, an event that triggered World War I.

Another historical gem is the city of Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge) which was built in the 16th century and destroyed during the Bosnian War but later rebuilt. You can also explore the medieval town of Blagaj, located at the source of the Buna River, and visit the impressive Blagaj Tekke, a Dervish monastery built into the side of a cliff.

If you’re a nature enthusiast, Bosnia and Herzegovina has some of the most beautiful and untouched landscapes in Europe. The country is home to several national parks, including Una National Park, Sutjeska National Park, and Kozara National Park, where you can hike, bike, and enjoy breathtaking scenery. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the stunning Kravice waterfalls, which are located near the city of Mostar and surrounded by lush green forests.

If you’re looking for adventure, Bosnia and Herzegovina has plenty to offer, too. Rafting on the wild and scenic Una River, skiing in the Olympic mountains of Bjelašnica and Jahorina, or paragliding over the beautiful Neretva River valley are just a few of the adrenaline-pumping activities you can experience here.

Finally, no trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina is complete without trying some of the delicious local cuisine. From cevapi (grilled minced meat served in a traditional Bosnian pita) to burek (a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese), there are plenty of delicious dishes to try. Make sure to also try the famous Bosnian coffee, a traditional drink that is enjoyed throughout the country.

Come and experience the beauty and diversity of Bosnia and Herzegovina – a country that will leave you enchanted and wanting to come back for more!

Religious Sites: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich religious history and is home to some of the most beautiful religious sites in Europe. The country has a significant Muslim population, and you can visit several beautiful mosques, including the iconic Mosque of Ali Pasha in Sarajevo and the Emperor’s Mosque in Sarajevo, which is one of the oldest in the city. There are also several beautiful churches, such as the Orthodox Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Banja Luka and the Catholic Cathedral of St. Joseph in Sarajevo.

Festivals: Bosnia and Herzegovina hosts several annual festivals, celebrating everything from music and culture to food and wine. One of the most popular is the Sarajevo Film Festival, which takes place every summer and attracts filmmakers and movie buffs from around the world. Other festivals to check out include the Mostar Summer Festival, the Banja Luka Rock Open Air Festival, and the Trebinje Wine Festival.

Skiing: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for skiing and winter sports, with several ski resorts located in the beautiful mountains of the country. Bjelašnica and Jahorina, which hosted events during the 1984 Winter Olympics, are the most popular ski resorts in the country, with excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities.

Music: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a vibrant music scene, with a rich tradition of folk, classical, and pop music. Sevdah, a traditional style of Bosnian folk music, is a must-listen while in the country. You can enjoy live music performances in bars, clubs, and concert halls throughout the country, especially in Sarajevo and Mostar.

Museums: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several museums that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. Some of the most popular include the Museum of the Sarajevo Assassination, which tells the story of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, and the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which showcases the country’s ancient and medieval history.

Hospitality: The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina are known for their hospitality and friendliness. Don’t be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you or invite you for a cup of coffee. It’s an essential part of the culture, and a great opportunity to learn more about the country and its people.

Natural Beauty: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in Europe. The country’s many rivers, lakes, and mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, fishing, swimming, and other outdoor activities. Some of the most popular natural attractions include the Una River, the Plitvice Lakes National Park, and the stunning mountain ranges of Prenj and Velebit.

These are just a few of the many reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for an unforgettable travel experience.

Old Towns: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several well-preserved old towns that are full of history and culture. The most famous of these is the Old Town of Mostar, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its iconic bridge, the Stari Most. Other old towns to visit include the Old Town of Sarajevo, the Old Town of Jajce, and the Old Town of Travnik.

Food and Drink: Bosnian cuisine is a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Mediterranean influences, resulting in a unique and delicious culinary experience. Some of the most popular dishes include cevapi (grilled minced meat served with onions and flatbread), burek (a savory pastry filled with meat or cheese), and dolma (stuffed vegetables). Bosnian coffee, which is similar to Turkish coffee, is a must-try, and you can enjoy it in one of the many cafes that line the streets of Sarajevo and other cities.

Rafting: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to some of the best white-water rafting in Europe, with several rivers providing thrilling rapids and stunning scenery. The Neretva River, which flows through the beautiful landscape of the Herzegovina region, is one of the most popular rafting destinations, but you can also raft on the Una River, the Drina River, and others.

Shopping: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for shopping, with many traditional handicrafts and souvenirs available. Some of the most popular items include handwoven carpets, pottery, and copperware. You can find these items in the bazaars and markets that are scattered throughout the country, or you can visit the Old Towns of Sarajevo and Mostar, which are known for their artisanal shops and boutiques.

Wine Tasting: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long tradition of winemaking, and you can visit several wineries throughout the country to taste the local wines. The Herzegovina region, in particular, is known for its excellent wines, including the Zilavka and Blatina varietals.

National Parks: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several stunning national parks that offer incredible scenery and outdoor activities. Some of the most popular parks include Sutjeska National Park, which is home to the country’s highest peak, Maglic, and the stunning Skakavac Waterfall, and Una National Park, which is known for its crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a fantastic destination for tourists. With its rich history, culture, and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful country.

Skiing: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for skiing enthusiasts. There are several ski resorts throughout the country that offer a range of slopes for skiers of all levels. Some of the most popular ski resorts include Bjelasnica, Jahorina, and Vlasic.

Religious Sites: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a multi-religious country, and there are several important religious sites that visitors can explore. One of the most significant is the Stari Most Mosque in Mostar, which dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest mosques in the country. Other important religious sites include the Blagaj Tekke, which is a Sufi monastery located near Mostar, and the Orthodox Monastery of Tvrdos, which is located near Trebinje.

Museums: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several museums that offer a glimpse into the country’s history and culture. The Museum of Sarajevo, located in the Old Town, is one of the most popular, with exhibits that cover the city’s rich history. The Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in Sarajevo, offers a comprehensive overview of the country’s past, while the War Childhood Museum, also located in Sarajevo, tells the stories of children who grew up during the Bosnian War.

Hiking: Bosnia and Herzegovina has some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Europe, with stunning scenery and a range of difficulty levels. The Via Dinarica trail, which stretches from Slovenia to Albania, passes through Bosnia and Herzegovina and offers some of the most breathtaking views of the country’s natural beauty.

Festivals: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several festivals throughout the year that celebrate the country’s culture and traditions. One of the most popular is the Sarajevo Film Festival, which takes place in August and showcases some of the best independent films from around the world. Other festivals include the Sarajevo Jazz Festival, the Mostar Blues and Rock Festival, and the Sarajevo Winter Festival, which features music, art, and cultural events.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Biking: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with several scenic routes and trails throughout the country. The Bosnia Bike Trail, for example, is a 1,000-kilometer route that takes bikers through some of the most beautiful parts of the country, including the Vrbas Canyon and the Una National Park.

Thermal Spas: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several natural thermal spas, which are known for their healing properties. The most popular of these is the Banja Luka Thermal Spa, which features several hot springs and offers a range of treatments and therapies.

Music and Dance: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich musical and dance heritage, with several traditional styles that are still popular today. The Sevdalinka, for example, is a traditional folk music style that is unique to Bosnia and Herzegovina, and is characterized by its melancholic lyrics and soulful melodies. Visitors can experience these musical traditions at festivals, concerts, and performances throughout the country.

Lakes and Rivers: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several beautiful lakes and rivers that offer opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Lake Bled, located in the Herzegovina region, is one of the most popular destinations for swimming and water sports, while the Trebisnjica River is known for its excellent fishing.

Ecotourism: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for ecotourism, with several protected areas and natural reserves throughout the country. The Hutovo Blato Nature Reserve, for example, is home to a wide variety of bird species and is a popular destination for birdwatching, while the Kozara National Park offers stunning scenery and hiking trails.

Street Art: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a thriving street art scene, with several cities and towns featuring murals and other forms of urban art. The Sarajevo Street Art Festival, which takes place every summer, is a great way to explore this aspect of the country’s culture.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Food and Drink: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of dishes that reflect the country’s history and cultural influences. Some popular dishes include cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables), and dolma (stuffed grape leaves). Visitors can also enjoy local wines, beers, and brandies, such as the famous plum brandy, rakija.

Rafting: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several rivers that offer exciting rafting experiences, including the Tara River, which is one of the deepest canyons in Europe. Rafting tours can be arranged through several tour operators, and typically include equipment rental, transportation, and a guide.

Castles and Fortresses: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich history of castles and fortresses, many of which date back to medieval times. Some of the most popular ones to visit include the fortified town of Počitelj, the castle of Travnik, and the Old Town of Jajce, which is home to the famous Pliva Waterfall.

Traditional Crafts: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long tradition of artisanal crafts, such as pottery, embroidery, and metalworking. Visitors can explore these crafts and buy unique souvenirs at local markets and shops throughout the country.

Religious Festivals: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several important religious festivals, including the Feast of St. Vitus in Jajce, which celebrates the town’s patron saint, and the Day of Ashura in Sarajevo, which commemorates the martyrdom of the Prophet Muhammad’s grandson. These festivals offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s religious traditions and customs.

War History: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a complex and tragic recent history, including the Bosnian War of the 1990s. Visitors can explore this history through several sites and museums, such as the Tunnel Museum in Sarajevo, which tells the story of the city’s underground tunnel system during the war, and the Srebrenica Memorial Center, which honors the victims of the Srebrenica genocide.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its rich culture, history, and natural beauty, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Skiing: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several ski resorts that offer great skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Jahorina, located near Sarajevo, hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984 and has since become a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Festivals: Bosnia and Herzegovina hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating music, culture, and food. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held every summer, is one of the largest film festivals in the region, while the Mostar Summer Festival features music, dance, and theater performances.

National Monuments: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several national monuments that are recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites, including the Old Bridge in Mostar, the Stari Grad (Old Town) of Sarajevo, and the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad.

Nature Reserves: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several nature reserves and protected areas, including the Una National Park, which features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, and the Sutjeska National Park, which is home to the country’s highest peak, Maglić.

Traditional Festivals: Bosnia and Herzegovina celebrates several traditional festivals that offer visitors a glimpse into the country’s culture and customs. The Opanak Festival, held in the town of Zvornik, celebrates the traditional footwear of the Balkan region, while the Kupres Summer Festival features traditional music, dance, and food.

Spelunking: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several caves and underground systems that offer exciting spelunking opportunities. The Vjetrenica Cave, located near the town of Trebinje, is one of the largest and most interesting caves in the country.

Ottoman Architecture: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich history of Ottoman architecture, with several mosques, bridges, and other buildings that reflect this cultural influence. The Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque in Sarajevo and the Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad are two notable examples of Ottoman architecture in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy

Hunting and Fishing: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a popular destination for hunting and fishing enthusiasts. The country is home to several game species, including wild boar, roe deer, and chamois, while its rivers are teeming with trout, grayling, and other fish.

Cultural Heritage: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a land of rich cultural heritage, with a blend of Eastern and Western influences. The country boasts several cultural institutions, such as the National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which showcase the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Religious Tourism: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a melting pot of different religions and faiths, with a mix of Muslim, Orthodox, and Catholic communities. The country is home to several important religious sites, such as the Blagaj Tekke, a Sufi monastery located near Mostar, and the Catholic pilgrimage site of Medjugorje, which attracts millions of visitors every year.

Adventure Sports: Bosnia and Herzegovina offers a range of adventure sports, from mountain biking and hiking to rock climbing and paragliding. The country’s rugged terrain and stunning natural scenery make it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers.

Wine Tasting: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a long history of winemaking, with several regions producing high-quality wines. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings and tours at several wineries, such as the Vinski Podrum Andrija in the Herzegovina region, which produces award-winning wines.

Ottoman Bridges: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several Ottoman bridges that are not only engineering marvels but also cultural landmarks. The Ottoman bridge in Konjic, for instance, is the widest preserved Ottoman bridge in the country and has become a popular tourist attraction.

Cave Diving: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several underwater caves that offer unique diving experiences. The Blue Lake Cave, located near the town of Livno, is a popular destination for cave divers due to its crystal-clear waters and stunning rock formations.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and diverse range of attractions and activities, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience.

Rafting: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several rivers that offer thrilling rafting experiences. The Una River, located in the northwestern part of the country, is one of the most popular rafting destinations, with its clear water, stunning scenery, and challenging rapids.

Food and Drink: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich culinary tradition, with a mix of Turkish, Mediterranean, and Central European influences. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as cevapi (grilled meat), burek (pastry filled with meat or cheese), and dolma (stuffed vegetables), as well as local wines and spirits such as rakija (fruit brandy).

Craftsmanship: Bosnia and Herzegovina is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, weaving, and woodworking. Visitors can visit workshops and studios in towns and villages across the country, where they can see skilled artisans at work and purchase unique souvenirs and gifts.

Museums and Galleries: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a thriving arts scene, with several museums and galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional art. The Ars Aevi Museum of Contemporary Art in Sarajevo is one of the most prominent cultural institutions in the region, while the Historical Museum of BiH in Sarajevo offers a comprehensive overview of the country’s history.

Rural Tourism: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s countryside is dotted with picturesque villages and hamlets that offer a glimpse into traditional rural life. Visitors can stay in guesthouses and agrotourism facilities, where they can experience local customs and traditions, sample traditional cuisine, and explore the stunning countryside.

Sports Tourism: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several sports clubs and teams, such as FK Sarajevo (football) and HK Bosna (ice hockey), and has hosted several international sports events, such as the European Youth Olympic Festival in 2019. Sports fans can attend matches and events and experience the country’s passion for sports firsthand.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its stunning natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and diverse range of attractions and activities, visitors are sure to have a memorable experience.

Skiing: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several ski resorts that offer excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The Bjelasnica and Jahorina ski resorts, located near Sarajevo, hosted several events during the 1984 Winter Olympics and are still popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts.

Festivals and Events: Bosnia and Herzegovina hosts several festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing the country’s music, culture, and traditions. The Sarajevo Film Festival, held in August, is one of the most prominent film festivals in the region, while the Sarajevo Jazz Festival, held in November, attracts jazz enthusiasts from around the world.

Spa and Wellness: Bosnia and Herzegovina has several spa and wellness centers that offer a range of treatments and therapies, from massages and facials to mineral baths and hydrotherapy. The Banja Luka Thermal Spa, located in the northwestern part of the country, is one of the most popular wellness destinations in the region.

Ecotourism: Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several protected areas and nature reserves, such as the Sutjeska National Park and the Una National Park. Visitors can explore these areas on foot or by bike, observing the country’s diverse flora and fauna and enjoying the stunning natural scenery.

River Cruises: Bosnia and Herzegovina’s rivers offer a unique way to explore the country’s landscapes and cultural heritage. Visitors can take a river cruise along the Neretva River, passing through the stunning Neretva Canyon and admiring the country’s historic bridges and fortresses.

Nightlife: Bosnia and Herzegovina has a vibrant nightlife scene, with several bars, clubs, and cafes catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The Baščaršija district in Sarajevo is particularly lively at night, with its narrow streets and bustling squares offering a range of entertainment options.

These are just a few more reasons why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a must-visit destination. With its diverse range of attractions and activities, visitors are sure to find something to suit their interests and preferences.

The most popular cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo
Banja Luka
Tuzla
Zenica
Mostar
Bijeljina
Prijedor
Doboj
Cazin
Visoko
Brcko
Gorazde
Konjic
Travnik
Livno
Gradacac
Zvornik
Gracanica
Bihac
Bugojno
Sanski Most
Capljina
Trebinje
Bosanski Brod
Foca
Gornji Vakuf-Uskoplje
Laktasi
Novi Travnik
Kljuc
Zavidovici
Bosanska Krupa
Modrica
Kakanj
Stolac
Srebrenik
Siroki Brijeg
Srebrenica
Donji Vakuf
Jajce
Bratunac

Teslic
Bosanski Petrovac
Mrkonjic Grad
Grude
Breza
Vitez
Kiseljak
Teocak
Visegrad
Gacko
Glamoc
Cajnice
Kalesija
Drvar
Tesanj
Nevesinje
Prijedor
Rudo
Bileca
Tesanj
Celinac
Olovo
Pale
Vares
Prozor-Rama
Zepce
Sokolac
Konjic
Fojnica
Kotor Varos
Srbac
Kladanj
Ribnik
Kupres
Kozarska Dubica
Modrica
Brod
Bosanski Samac
Cazin
Kiseljak

Sipovo
Bosanska Dubica
Posusje
Donji Vakuf
Breza
Rudo
Bihac
Gornji Vakuf
Visegrad
Glamoc
Drvar
Tesanj
Zepce
Pale
Vares
Celinac
Nevesinje
Jajce
Stolac
Tesanj
Trebinje
Gacko
Cajnice
Siroki Brijeg
Srebrenica
Srebrenik
Ribnik
Bosanska Krupa
Teslic
Bosanski Petrovac
Kotor Varos
Modrica
Bileca
Bosanski Brod
Gracanica
Kljuc
Zavidovici
Fojnica
Bosanska Dubica
Kozarska Dubica

Video Clips From Bosnia and Herzegovina