Bosnia and Herzegovina is among the least visited countries in Europe. Its neighboring countries like Croatia and Montenegro make it overlooked. Bosnia is a hidden gem and there are a lot of places to visit. By the end of reading this article, you will get to know why.
Bosnia is also a small country even Austria is bigger in terms of land size. However, there lot of places you can explore in this heart-shaped country. From the deep woods, mountains, high plains to beaches there is a lot to do and see. There are also a number of hidden UNESCO World Heritage sites.
If you are budget travelers, Bosnia is more affordable compared to other countries in Europe. Hence, if you are in Dubai and planning to visit Bosnia you are on right track. As you plan the trip you should know you will need Bosnia And Herzegovina Visa from Dubai. With the visa you will be allowed to enter the country.
There are several places to visit in Bosnia and not only the picturesque town Mostar but all these places we have listed below.
Sarajevo is Bosnia and Herzegovina capita city and one must visit places. The distinctive sign on the street in this city tell you it is literally where the East meets west. There are several places to visit in the city as you take a walk. Among them are Catholic cathedral, the Orthodox cathedral, the mosque, and the synagogue.
This city is in historical book for various reason one of them is it is where the World War First started. The other reason it is where the 1984 Winter Olympic Games were held. The remnants of these events are spread in the city.
At the evening, you can get to catch the stunning sunset views and will be romantic if you are with your loved one. You can also go hiking in the surrounding mountains along the narrow and long valley.
Located few kilometers from Sarajevo, Ilidza is another place to visit in Bosnia. The charming park featuring the recreational park, spas and spring of River Bosna are among the things which draw tourist to this city.
The event which led to World War 1 was the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand28th July 1914. He was staying in one the fancy hotels in Ilidza where you can also book your stay. There are a lot of places to tour in this city and get to all about the World War 1.
Mostar is the famous city in Bosnia and Herzegovina. One of the things which make this city is the popular picture of the Ottoman old bridge above the Neretva River turquoise waters. The bridge was built in 1th century but, it was destroyed 9th November 1993. The other reason why this city is popular it is because it is where the center of the World War 1.
The old bridge was constructed again and in 2005 it was included in the list of the UNESCO World Heritage in Bosnia. You can get clear view of the city getting to the viewing are at minaret of Koskin-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque.
When you visit Mostar, you should not limit your visit to the Old bride. Other places to explore include the Sniper’s Tower and the park with the statue of Bruce Lee.
Situated few kilomteres from Mostar, Blagaj is another place to visit in Bosnia. The two main tourist attractions are the Spring of Buna River and the Dervish monastery.
The Buna River spring is ranked as the largest and beautiful spring in Europe. It features cold water emerging from a deep cavernous source and it is clear. This spring create a picturesque setting making a perfect spot for photography. Dervish monastery dates back to 1520 and inside there is Dervish remnants and well preserved Ottoman.
The other tourist attraction to explore is historical and cultural site built is 16th century Blagaj Tekke. Visitors get to learn about the dervish order spiritual practices and also admire the site Ottoman architectural style.
Located at a hill, Pocitelj is a town most tourist overlook when driving to/from Mostar. The buildings in the town are built in lush green vegetation surrounding. This town prosperity peak was between 16th and 18th century. Up to date, the remnants of the medieval and Ottoman architecture are found here.
In this walled town, time seems to have stopped. If you're lucky, you can have the city all to yourself, which is the ideal way to fall in love with Pocitelj. There are multiple sites to view in this small town, including residences, a mosque, and the fortification remains.
Kravica Waterfall is among the natural landmarks which you can visit in Bosnia. The waterfall is situated close to the border with Croatia. Tourists and local visit this waterfall mostly in summer. The view of the waterfall is stunning and will understand why many tourists flock here.
During hot day even local visit this water for swimming. Others visit the water for a relaxation in the serene environment and enjoying the view of the surroundings. There are restaurants and bars at this spot where you can enjoy a meal or a drink.
Situated few kilometers from Dubrovnik, Trebinje is another charming city to visit in Bosnia. The population in this city is around 30,000. Among the things you can do in this city is taking a leisure walk around the Old town admiring the old building featuring the Ottoman architecture.
Or you can relax in the shadow of plane tress in one of the cafes. You can get the spectacular view of Trebinje and surrounding from Nova Gracanica monastery situated at a hill top.
Situated center of the country, Travenik is another place to visit in Bosnia & Herzegovina. This town dates to the beginning of AD and its prosperity was between the end 17th and mid-19th century and was the Bosnia governor Capital.
The tourist places to visit in Travnik include historic mosques, striking Travnik Castle and old buildings featuring Ottoman architecture. You can also catch the breathtaking of the surrounding rivers and mountains.
You can also get to experience the Bosnia culture and heritage when touring the old town, traditional eateries and vibrant bazaars.
Located at centre of Jajce, waterfall of the Pliva River is listed among the 12 most beautiful waterfalls globally. Among the 12, this waterfall is only located in the middle of the town.
Falling from 17 meter high into the river Vrbas, this waterfall water is clear and clean. This makes it natural monument of beauty. It is perfect spot for photographers to take beautiful photos. During your visit remember to bring camera.
If you are nature and adventure enthusiasts, you should add in the list of places to visit in Bosnia Una national park. The park is plays a critical role in conservation of biodiversity and landscape.
The park huge part is situated on the western part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bihac municipality. The pristine rivers like the Una River found in the parks where tourist can engage into various water sports like swimming, rafting and kayaking make this park famous.
The other tourist spot in the park is Una waterfalls at Martin Brod and offers visitors a chance to enjoy breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. Other things which visitors get to enjoy at Una national park are spotting different wildlife and hiking to the hills or in the lush forest.
Located about 40 km from Mostar waterfalls of Kravice is another fascinating place to visit in Bosnia. The Trebižat River splits off and creates a natural amphitheater by flowing from the tuff walls at a height of thirty meters.
Mostly visited by locals and rafting enthusiasts during the summer, it's the ideal spot for anyone looking to unwind and have fun in the company of pure nature, with the soothing sound of waterfalls playing in the background.
Located in eastern Republika Srpska over the Drina River, Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge is yet another place to visit in Bosnia. The construction of this historic bridge in Višegrad was completed in 1577. The construction was done by the Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan.
The bridge is popular because it was features in one of the book written by Nobel Prize winner Yugoslav writer Ivo Andri “The Bridge on the Drina.” In 2007, it was included in list of UNESCO world heritage site. Spanning the Drina River, this bridge was built featuring the elegant arches and a striking stone façade which is an example of Ottoman engineering and design.
This bridge holds historical value as it reflects the rich Ottoman heritage of the region. Besides, visitors get to enjoy stunning view of the surrounding landscapes and river. When you visit this bridge you will get to appreciate the Ottoman architecture and learn about Bosnia past.
If you love bird watching, you should add visiting Hutovo blato Natural Park among the places to visit in Bosnia. At the park is where several birds among them Ducks, pheasants, hawks among others rest on their way to North Africa. The best time to visit park is during autumn and spring when bird migration peaks.
Other animals which live in this park include mammals, reptiles, and fish. Various varieties of fishes migrate to the park for reproduction. Hence you will find different fish species here.
You can explore the parking by following the hiking trails. The trails leads to the heart of the park and will get to explore different ecosystem like the bird habitants and the wetlands where reptiles live. Other outdoor activities you can do is fishing or cycling.
Located at the Montenegrin border, Sutjeska National Park is another park to visit in Bosnia. The park is famous because all over Europe that is where the last primaeval forest is found. It is also where the highest mountains in Bosnia are situated. These factors contributed to listing of this park among the UNESCO world heritage sites in Bosnia.
The best way to explore this park is following the hiking trails as they will lead to the hard of the park. You should not go by yourself for safety reason; a guide should accompany you because there are bears and wolves in the park. The guide will also explain the park conservation efforts.
The other activity which you should try when you visit this park is rafting on Drina River. It is a thrilling activity and not for the faint hearted, all in all it is worth a try experience.
Tara Canyon is the deepest and longest canyons in the world. If you are looking for outdoor adventure this is the best place to visit in Bosnia. It listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The border between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro is between the last sections of the Canyon.
Given the depth and location of this canyon, visitors get to explore it from the water, on the Tara River. During summer season, visitors flock to this river for thrilling rafting experience. The river cuts through the canyon.
Riding down the river in a raft is an exciting and rewarding experience, especially when you can see towering cliffs and waterfalls along the way, combined with crystal clear blue water and a dense forest near the water's edge. Numerous rafting companies have accommodations built up along the river on both sides of the border.
1. Which is the best time to plan a holiday in Bosnia?
Best time to plan a holiday in Bosnia is early/late summer, like June or September. Among the less crowded places to visit during this time is Mostar. While some visitors like to visit during summer season, it is hot and dry. It can be challenging to get outdoors especially during mi-day hours.
2. Which is the best way to travel in Bosnia?
There are different means of transport you can use to get or travel around in Bosnia and Herzegovina. You can suit the means which suits your budget, preference and travel plans. Here are the best means:
3. Which are the best places in the Bosnia for honeymoon?
If you are visiting Bosnia with your loved, the best places for honey moon include Sarajevo, Mostar, Kravica Waterfalls and Jahorina Mountain.
