14 Fun Things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina on a Bosnia Road Trip
If it is not yet on your list – it needs to be because there are many wonderful things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina that you will be spoilt for choice. Not only is it beautiful, with its architecture and stunning waterfalls, and national parks – it also is the place where East meets West – which means it is bustling with culture. Undeniably, it is one of the most underrated places to travel in Europe.
It is known as the heart of the Balkans, and you can feel that through the passion of the people and the remnants of the war in the 1990s. Most tourists visit the country for Sarajevo and Mostar, but there is so much beyond. Hence, we urge you to take a Bosnia road trip, as there are so many exciting places that you should visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
It is also a cheap country, quite relaxed, and we always felt safe. We drove around to some magical places and did not get stopped by the Police once, and whilst some of the roads were questionable, the tolls were inexpensive, and we had a wonderful adventure that we would recommend to anyone.
Please remember that everything we say is based on our experience, and we share our honest opinions about our Bosnia road trip.
About the country
It is worth understanding that Bosnia and Herzegovina operate as two different countries. Bosnia makes up around 80% and Herzegovinia 20% of geographical lands. There are also three languages and three presidents.
The Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of two entities in the State of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The other is Republika Srpska.
14 Best Things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The best way to see all the sights is to go on a Bosnia road trip. However, there are options to see most of these wonderful places to visit in Bosnia on day trips and tours.
Explore the capital Sarajevo
It’s unsurprising that Sarajevo, the capital, is one of the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thanks to its bustling streets and corners, the city is alive with positive energy. Sarajevo was established by the Ottomans in the 15th century and is often referred to as a melting pot of cultures where the East meets the West.
Everybody should visit Sarajevo at least once in their life. You can feel the diversity of religions and cultures as you stroll around. Its charming beauty is due to the friendly Sarajevan people, its vibrant centre, and the cable car that leads to hiking trails from when it hosted the Winter Olympics.
Recognizing the Sarajevo siege (the longest in modern times) and the ongoing Bosnian war is important. We believe it is vital to learn about the past and see the museum, including the Sarajevo war tunnel, to understand the horrors of the recent war.
We have never been to a city where we were so engaged and attentive in the horrifying museums. We recommend spending some time in Sarajevo to reflect and absorb the experience and admire the wonderful Sarajevo clock tower.
It was also where the Sarajevo Assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand took place, and other events followed World War 1. There are many great things to do and see in Sarajevo.
Suppose you’re interested in learning more. Please read: The Best Things to do in Sarajevo.
Feel like a local in Banja Luka
Banja Luka, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s second-largest city, is also the capital of the region’s predominantly Serb-governed Bosnia. After the civil war in the 1990s, it has undergone a lot of reconstruction. It is now one of Bosnia’s most exciting and modern cities. It is worth visiting and is one of the best places to visit in Bosnia.
After 1527, it was an important military base for the Ottoman Turks. It was awarded numerous landmarks, including the Ferhat Pasha Mosque, which is still one of the most outstanding examples of Islamic construction.
Banja Luka is an unexplored city, reflected in its small number of tourists. However, we think it deserves a spot on the list of the best things to do in Bosnia because it is a compact city that is home to a rich cultural heritage that includes many museums, theatres and grand buildings as well as cathedrals, mosques, churches, mosques, and a National Library.
The city’s natural beauty makes it an excellent choice for a trip to Bosnia. You can visit more than 10,000 species of trees, thermal springs, and spas nearby.
To learn more about Banja Luka, please read: Best Things to do in Banja Luka.
Krupa Na Vrbsu and Krupa Waterfalls
Krupa na Vrbasu is an easy day trip from Banja Luka, a small town. The Krupa, a small river that flows into the canyon with the Vrbas, is a beautiful place with canyons and old water mills.
It is known for its “Krupa waterfalls”, which run through the town. The clear, crystal-clear water that flows down from the traditional watermills is a stunning sight. You can purchase freshly ground wheat near the waterfalls or some trout from the nearby farms.
Some of the best things to do are to take a dip in the Krupa Waterfalls or walk up to the Greben watchtowers to see the Vrbas Canyon. Also, you can visit the Krupa na Vrbasu Serbian Orthodox Monastery or go rafting down the Vrbas River.
Visit Una National Park
Una National Park was established in 2008 and is one of three national parks in Bosnia-Herzegovina. It is home to the Unac River and the Upper Una Rivers, as well as the source of the Krka River. It protects the extraordinary flora and fauna of the area, as well as riverbank forests and archaeological and cultural heritage sites.
Una National Park offers many things to do and see. It’s situated near the border between Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia. It’s one of the country’s leading natural attractions. You can go rafting, swim, see incredible wildlife and visit Ostrovica Castle. It is easily one of the best places to visit in Bosnia.
Go on a boat at Pliva Lake
Pliva Lake is located on the Pliva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Central Bosnia Canton. It is 1km wide and 3300m long, and the riverside is lined with old mills that date back to the Middle Age.
Twenty mills, built on the tufa cascade between the Big Lake & the Small Lake, symbolize carpentry and traditional architecture. They also contribute greatly to Jajce’s historic setting (Jajce is the closest town).
We stayed at Motel Plaza, which was by the riverbank and offered wonderful views, whilst we had food and relaxed. They also had plenty of boat hire, pedalos and bigger boats, so you could explore the lake at your leisure or ask someone to take you out. It is one of the best things to do in Bosnia.
Admire Jajce Waterfall
Jajce waterfall (officially Pliva Waterfall) is Jajce’s most famous attraction, and exploring is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The crossing of the Vrbas and Pliva rivers forms the roaring waterfall. It sprays softly over an official viewing platform, giving Jajce a tranquil backdrop.
Jajce attracts huge crowds to its cliff-jumping events in August. It is when professional divers take on the waterfall. Once you have enjoyed the waterfall, you can visit the fortress, the Catacombs, museums and more. It is a wonderful place to spend the day on a Bosnia road trip.
Walk over the famous Old Bridge in Mostar
Mostar is a historic city that spans a deep valley of the Neretva River. It was founded in the 15th and built in the 16th century as an Ottoman frontier settlement during the Austro–Hungarian period of the 19th and 20th centuries.
Mostar is known for its Old Turkish Houses and Stari Most Old Bridge. The 1990s conflict destroyed most of the historical town and the Old Bridge. With the help of UNESCO, the Old Bridge was rebuilt.
The reconstructed Old Bridge and the Old City of Mostar are symbols of reconciliation and international cooperation, and the coexistence of diverse religious, cultural and ethnic communities.
Many people visit Mostar on day trips from Sarajevo and Dubrovnik in Croatia. However, it is the busiest at these times. We stayed the night and found it peaceful after the tour buses had left.
One of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina is to watch the locals jump from the Old Bridge. It is spectacular! You can do it as a tourist, but you must go through the locals and pay – you will then get your name in the infamous book!
You can also visit the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, a great example of Ottoman architecture and one of the must-dos on a Bosnia road trip.
Feel peaceful at Blagaj Dervish Monastery and Vrelo Bune
Located only a short distance from Mostar, the stunning Blagaj Monastery amazes visitors with its beautiful natural setting. Built-in Ottoman styles, the modest building is situated at the base of a huge cliff. Visiting is easily one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Buna river flows over a small, mysterious cave to the Neretva river. The monastery’s water is a beautiful shade of blue and is believed to have mystic properties.
Dervish, a branch of Sufi Islam that is mystic and known for its whirling rituals, built the monastery in 1520. It is a place for spiritual reflection and retreat. The monastery’s stunning setting, peaceful surroundings, and the sounds of rushing waters make it a tranquil place that even non-religious visitors will find soothing.
All faiths and opinions are welcome to visit the monastery and stay as long as they wish. It is not a place to check off a bucket list, and one of the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
There is a small entry fee, and visitors are asked to cover their legs and shoulders. The monastery offers wraps and headscarves for anyone who is in need. For the best view, you will need to cross the bridge and walk up and around to see it from the other side of the water.
Swim in Kravica Waterfalls
The natural attraction of Kravica Waterfall is one of the best places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Trebizat River plunges into an emerald-coloured pool in a wide 25m-high arc. It is a stunning, steamy spectacle in Spring.
It’s more tranquil in summer but offers a welcome respite from the scorching heat for hundreds of tourists and locals. There are many bars and cafes where you can buy cold drinks!
You can also hire kayaks per hour further downstream or take a little boat to visit the mini waterfalls too. We decided to walk to them, though.
It’s a 15-minute walk to the falls from the car park down some steep steps. It was probably (along with Mostar) the busiest place we visited. We arrived late in the afternoon, but you might consider heading earlier on your Bosnia road trip to avoid the crowds.
Drink the local beer
What we loved about our trip to Bosnia was that we could sample some excellent local beer, as it seemed that all regions and places had their own – and were proud of it. It is a fun experience and one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Some of our favourites include:
- Nektar in Banja Luka.
- Mostarsko Pivo.
- Amber and Lager Sarajevsko (unfiltered).
Feel in wonder at Međugorje
Most Catholics are familiar with the story of Medugorje. This tiny Herzegovinian city has been the second-largest Catholic pilgrimage site worldwide since 1981, when six teens reported seeing an apparition of the Virgin Mary in the hills.
Although there was much debate about the validity of the visions in the past, the Vatican officially recognized it as a pilgrimage site in May 2019. People from all walks of the globe are now flocking to this holy spot to witness miracles, which many believe to be a regular occurrence.
Some of the best things to do included attending a mass, taking part in confession or walking the hill known as Apparition Hill, where the children saw her for the first time. It is a popular walk, even though it is steep and rocky (many people do it barefoot).
Truthfully, we couldn’t believe how many people were here when we first visited. It felt unbelievable.
Admire views in Pocitelj Old Town
We almost missed visiting Bocitelj and drove past it to return the next day after googling what we had missed. A visit is one of the best things to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Pocitelj is home to one of the most beautiful and perfect architectural ensembles. You can park at the bottom or the top (we did the latter) and explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Old Town. We especially enjoyed the interior of Gavrankapetanovic Fort.
We recommend climbing to the silo-shaped fort that overlooks the village. It is where you can find most of the stunning photos of Pocitel, and you feel like you’re on a real adventure.
Walk along the River in Trebinje
Trebinje is the most beautiful city in Republika Ska. It has a small centre, a walled Old Town and a market square. As it flows through Trebinje, the Trebisnjica River is shallow and slow. Its banks are lined with swimming spots, replicas of waterwheels and other irrigation devices.
We visited the Herzegovinia Museum and wandered over the Arslangic Bridge. Hills surround the suburbs with Orthodox churches and mountains.
We recommend visiting a wonderful family-run winery called Andelic. They gave us a quick tour, and we bought some lovely wine we drank in the evening. If you’re interested, they are on Instagram: Vinarija Anđelić.
Drink Bosnian Coffee
Bosnian Coffee is a must-try when you visit Bosnia and Herzegovina. We recommend Bascarsija in Sarajevo for an authentic experience. We found the Coffee to be rich, bitter and thick.
A Bosnian cup can be served with a dzezva, a round iron tray with a ceramic mug and an ice-cold glass with sugar cubes.
You may require step-by-step instructions if you are anything like us. We learnt:
- Take a glass of water
- Add a layer of foam to the bottom
- Before adding the foam to the coffee cup, pour the dzezva.
- Don’t pour sugar. Instead, place the cubes on a tray under your tongue.
- Take your time, drink and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Arguably, the best time to visit for a Bosnia road trip is in the Spring, as the most popular time is the summer months, and there can be extremely hot temperatures and more tourists. However, if you visit in winter, you can go skiing.
What language do they speak in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The languages are Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian.
What is the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The population of Bosnia and Herzegovina is 3.9 million.
What is the currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The currency is Mark, known as BAM or KM.
Can you use cards in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, but only sometimes – we recommend carrying cash with you. However, it is worth noting that the banks will charge you around 5 euros to withdraw in most places to visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
What is it like to drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
We recommend hiring a car from the airport if you plan on going on a Bosnia road trip. It is worth noting that some of the roads are in poor condition (depending on where you go), and toll roads are inexpensive.
We heard that the Police stopped and fined tourists and were warned by British tourists in one of the hotels we stayed at. However, we did not have this experience, so we cannot comment on it.
What is the food like in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
In restaurants, there are plenty of fish and meat options. It is good to know that there are few choices for vegetarians and vegans. The food was cheap though by British standards and the service was good too.
On our Bosnia road trip, we found that coffee shops did not serve pastries or food, so for breakfast (when the hotel did not include it in our hotel), we went to the Pekara (bakery), and we had some delicious food.
Can I get a SIM card for my phone in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, you can get SIM cards from the airport or the kiosks in the street. You can usually get 15GB for 20 BAM.
Do people speak English in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
In Sarajevo and Mostar, there were plenty of English speakers. However, out of these places, there were fewer, but younger people were usually good, and we always got around.
What do I need to bring to Bosnia and Herzegovina?
You will likely visit the churches and monasteries on your Bosnia road trip. We recommend bringing and wearing appropriate clothing. Usually, there are options to borrow skirts/ headscarves at the entrance, though, if you do not have anything appropriate.
Concluding Remarks
We fell in love with the country and loved all the wonderful things to do in Bosnia on an exciting Bosnia road trip. You can follow our direct route using the ideas above (minus the beer and Coffee). It is truly a wonderful, adventurous country with amazing sights and a much cheaper alternative to other European countries.
Interested in learning more? Read a travel story of Hitchhiking in the Balkans!
Photo Credits: Averagelives.com