Bosnia and Herzegovina: Travel Tips and Experiences
One of the countries we visited during our Balkan trip was Bosnia and Herzegovina. This incredible destination truly surprised us. It’s so different from Western Europe, offering a unique blend of culture, nature, and history. In this article, we share our practical travel tips and personal experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina, helping you plan your journey and know what to expect.
Tip: Check out our Google Maps travel guide for the Balkans!
Crossing Borders in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Our first experience in Bosnia and Herzegovina began at the border. Unlike in the European Union, you’ll need to stop at customs and show your passport or ID. We chose the Imotski border crossing from Croatia because it’s much quieter, making the journey smoother. Don’t forget to bring your car documents, as they are often requested at the border. Of course, if you are entering by plane, there are just the normal customs procedures.
Did you know that Bosnia and Herzegovina was once part of Yugoslavia? It only gained independence in 1992 after a devastating war. The effects can still be seen in some cities today.
Practical Tips for Currency and Payments
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, they use the convertible mark (KM). There are some shops that accept Euros as well. However, some local currency is quite handy.
Tip: Use a card like Revolut to save on exchange rate fees. It worked perfectly for us!
Trebinje and Mostar: Our Personal Experiences
Bosnia and Herzegovina boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times. Did you know the country was once part of the Ottoman Empire? You can see Ottoman influences everywhere, especially in cities like Mostar, with its stunning architecture.
Mostar: Touristic Highlight
Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge). Walking through the narrow streets, filled with shops and market stalls, feels like stepping back in time. We even took a speedboat under the bridge, which was an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that Mostar is a popular tourist destination, so it can get busy.
Trebinje: More Locals
Trebinje, in contrast, is smaller and more tranquil. We loved the cozy old town with its charming squares and terraces. Visit in the evening during summer for cooler temperatures and a lively atmosphere. This tip applies to most cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s all about those pleasant summer evenings!
Accommodation Recommendations
We stayed in two amazing accommodations during our trip.
El Higo Studio Apartments in Mostar: Located right in the city center with parking included. The owner gave us fantastic advice about what to see and do in the area.
Guesthouse Zavala in Zavala: We were warmly welcomed with a local drink and experienced true Bosnian hospitality. The kindness of the people truly left an impression on us.
Driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Before our trip, we’d heard that the roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina were in poor condition. However, this turned out to be much better than expected! We relied on the ViaMichelin app to check whether roads were paved or not, which was super helpful.
That said, be prepared for surprises. Construction work can lead to long stretches of unpaved roads. Despite this, driving through Bosnia’s breathtaking nature was one of the highlights of our journey.
Food and Drinks in Bosnia
Food in Bosnia is simple but delicious. However, only if you enjoy these local dishes. The must-try specialty is ćevapi (small minced meat rolls), and fresh figs are also a local favorite. While we found the local cuisine a bit hit-or-miss, there are plenty of alternatives available.
Coffee culture is an essential part of life in Bosnia. Every coffee is served with a glass of water, though we avoided drinking the water from the glass, unsure if it was safe to drink. Thankfully, our water-to-go bottle came in handy! Overall, food and drinks in Bosnia are incredibly affordable.
Our Experience with the Local People
What stood out to us most about Bosnia and Herzegovina was the warmth and hospitality of its people. Locals are eager to share their stories, culture, and history with you (if you’re open to it). Start a conversation, and you’ll quickly find yourself immersed in engaging discussions. At both accommodations, we had nice chats with the owners about their lives and traditions.
Why You Should Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina!
Bosnia and Herzegovina exceeded our expectations. Although we only explored a small part of the southern region, we can’t wait to return and see more of this amazing country. From historic cities like Mostar and Trebinje to the stunning natural landscapes and the warmth of the locals, Bosnia offers a unique mix of culture, adventure, and tranquility.
We hope our travel tips and personal experiences inspire you to add Bosnia and Herzegovina to your travel bucket list! Curious about our full Balkan road trip? Don’t forget to check out our 3-week Balkan itinerary.
