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Sarajevo
Convertible Mark (BAM)
Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
May–Sept
CET (UTC+1) / CEST (UTC+2)
Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country where Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences blend together against a backdrop of dramatic mountains and rivers. Sarajevo, the capital, is often called the "Jerusalem of Europe" for its remarkable mix of mosques, churches, and synagogues standing side by side. The iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar, rebuilt after wartime destruction, remains a powerful symbol of resilience and unity. Emerald rivers like the Neretva carve through deep canyons, offering rafting and outdoor adventure amid stunning scenery. Bosnia's countryside reveals dense forests, waterfalls, and traditional villages that feel worlds away from its historic cities. Turkish-style coffeehouses and bustling bazaars in Sarajevo's old town evoke centuries of cultural crossroads. The country's complex, layered history is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and warm, resilient people. Bosnia and Herzegovina invites travelers to discover a compact country rich with history, natural beauty, and cultural depth.
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Helpful information to consider before and during your visit.
Discover some of Bosnia and Herzegovina's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.
Small grilled minced-meat sausages are served inside warm flatbread with chopped onions and often kaymak.
Thin pastry is layered or rolled around seasoned minced meat and baked until crisp and flaky.
Meat and vegetables are slowly cooked together in layers, creating a hearty traditional Bosnian stew.
Peppers, onions or grape leaves are filled with seasoned meat and rice, then simmered until tender.
Chicken and okra are cooked into a thick, creamy soup traditionally associated with special occasions.
Onions are carefully filled with minced meat and rice and simmered in a savory sauce.
Small meat-filled dumplings are served with garlic yogurt, butter and paprika.
Poached apples are filled with walnuts and sugar, then topped with whipped cream.
Layers of thin pastry and nuts are baked and soaked in sweet syrup for a rich dessert.
Bosnia and Herzegovina contains a remarkable mixture of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, Slavic, and Mediterranean influences. In Sarajevo, mosques, Orthodox churches, Catholic cathedrals, and a historic synagogue stand within a short walk of one another, leading the city to be nicknamed the “Jerusalem of Europe.” Sarajevo also hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, and traces of the event remain in mountain venues surrounding the capital. Nearby, the source of the Bosna River emerges from clear springs in a park called Vrelo Bosne.
The country is exceptionally mountainous and contains deep river canyons, waterfalls, caves, and one of Europe’s last primeval forests. Perućica Forest includes trees that are several centuries old and shelters the dramatic Skakavac waterfall. The emerald-colored Neretva River flows through Mostar beneath Stari Most, the famous 16th-century Ottoman bridge. After being destroyed during the Bosnian War, the bridge was reconstructed using traditional methods and stone from the original quarry.
A centuries-old tradition in Mostar involves skilled divers leaping from the bridge into the cold river far below. Bosnia and Herzegovina also has a tiny stretch of Adriatic coastline around the town of Neum, giving the country access to the sea despite being almost completely surrounded by Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro. Traditional Bosnian coffee is prepared in a long-handled copper pot and served slowly, reflecting a culture that places great value on hospitality and conversation.
Another little-known fact is that Albanians have a unique cultural tradition called "Besa," meaning "to keep one's promise." This centuries-old code of honor became internationally recognized during World War II when Albania was one of the few European countries where the Jewish population actually increased because local families risked their lives to shelter refugees. Albania also boasts the stunning Blue Eye (Syri i Kaltër), a natural spring with crystal-clear turquoise water whose exact depth remains unknown despite multiple explorations.
Finally, Albania enjoys more than 300 sunny days each year, rivaling many Mediterranean destinations. The country is also famous for its "sworn virgins"—a centuries-old tradition in remote mountain villages where women could legally assume male social roles by taking a lifelong vow of celibacy, preserving family inheritance and leadership in the absence of male heirs.
