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Travel Guide for
Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Continental, Mediterranean, and Alpine

Introduction

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country in the heart of the Balkans, nestled between Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro. It has a rich, multicultural history shaped by Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences, which are reflected in its unique architecture and lively traditions.

In August, you’ll find warm, sunny days—perfect for exploring Sarajevo’s historic Old Town, scenic hikes around Mostar, or swimming in crystal-clear rivers. Families can enjoy relaxed cafés, local cuisine, and welcoming hospitality without breaking the bank. The blend of natural beauty, history, and affordable activities makes Bosnia and Herzegovina ideal for a memorable family holiday.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates10-16 August 2025

BudgetAverage budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

family activitiesarts and culturefestivals and eventsoutdoor adventuressightseeing and tours

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Picture of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Key Facts

Location

Southeast Europe, Balkans

Currency

Convertible Mark (BAM)

Religion

Islam, Orthodox, Catholic

Population

3,200,000

Language

Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Type C/F plugs

Time zone

UTCCET (UTC+1)

Country code

+387

Internet access

Widespread 4G/5G, affordable broadband

Climate

Continental, Mediterranean, and Alpine

See More Bosnia and Herzegovina Facts

Language:

Bosnian

  • hello

    zdravo (zdra-vo)
  • goodbye

    doviđenja (do-vee-jyen-ya)
  • yes

    da (da)
  • no

    ne (neh)
  • how much

    koliko ovo košta? (ko-lee-ko o-vo kosh-ta)
  • please

    molim (mo-leem)
  • thank you

    hvala (hva-la)
  • excuse me

    izvinite (iz-vee-nee-te)

Map

Logistics

The easiest way for families to reach Bosnia and Herzegovina is by flying into Sarajevo International Airport, which offers regular connections from many major European cities. Alternatively, you can use nearby airports in Dubrovnik or Split (Croatia) for a broader range of flights, and then continue by car or bus across the border.

Trains and buses connect Bosnia and Herzegovina with neighboring countries, such as Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro. Buses are usually more reliable and comfortable for families. August weather is warm and travel is generally smooth, but border crossings might be busier—so allow extra time for your journey.

Boats are not a common option, as the country’s coastline is very short, with the town of Neum as the only coastal option. Roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas, so plan your road trips with care, especially with children.

Weather

Bosnia and Herzegovina features a mix of continental and Mediterranean climates. Summers are warm, with temperatures often ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), especially in inland regions. Winters can be cold, particularly in the mountains, with snowfall offering opportunities for winter sports and scenic landscapes.

From August 10 to August 16, you can expect hot and mostly dry conditions, ideal for family-activities, festivals, and outdoor adventures. Occasional afternoon thunderstorms may occur, but extreme weather is rare during this period. This pleasant weather is perfect for exploring the country’s arts, culture, and sightseeing tours.

Food & Drink

Bosnian cuisine features comforting dishes like cevapi (grilled minced meat), burek (savory pastry), and hearty stews, often best paired with local yogurt. Try baklava for dessert and sip strong, aromatic Bosnian coffee. Look for seasonal specialties such as fresh river fish and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

For family-friendly dining on a moderate budget, check out Ćevabdžinica Željo in Sarajevo for authentic cevapi or Petica Ferhatović for a casual local meal. In Mostar, Sadrvan offers traditional options in an inviting courtyard setting, while city center cafes serve pastries and coffee ideal for a midday break.

Tipping around 10% is appreciated but not expected; round up or leave small change at cafés. Vegetarian options are available but limited, so inform your server of dietary needs. Pork is less common in predominantly Muslim areas, while alcohol is widely available in larger towns and cities.

A picture of Cevapi

Cevapi

Cevapi is a popular grilled dish of minced meat, typically made from beef or lamb, seasoned with spices...

A picture of Burek

Burek

Burek is a savory pastry consisting of flaky phyllo dough filled with minced meat, cheese, or spinach. Often...

A picture of Bosanski Lonac

Bosanski Lonac

Bosanski Lonac, or Bosnian Pot, is a hearty stew made with layers of meat (typically beef or lamb),...

A picture of Sogan Dolma

Sogan Dolma

Sogan Dolma is a traditional Bosnian dish featuring onions stuffed with minced meat, rice, and aromatic herbs, then...

A picture of Tufahije

Tufahije

Tufahije is a delectable Bosnian dessert made from poached apples stuffed with a walnut filling and drizzled with...

Accommodation

For a family-friendly stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina, consider hotels in central Sarajevo, such as Hotel Europe or Swissôtel Sarajevo, both offering comfort and proximity to top sights. Mostar’s Old Town features hotels like Hotel Mepas and Hotel Kriva Ćuprija, giving easy access to the iconic Stari Most bridge.

Book early for mid-August, as this is high tourist season—platforms like Booking.com or Agoda offer the best rates and clear family room options. In places like Blagaj or Jajce, smaller boutique hotels often provide a welcoming atmosphere and additional activities for kids. Central locations reduce transit time and make sightseeing much easier for families.

Itinerary

Experience the warm embrace of Sarajevo by exploring its diverse neighborhoods, soaking in the unique blend of history, culture, and modern energy that define the city.

Stroll through Baščaršija Old Bazaar

Begin your Sarajevo adventure at Baščaršija, the city's bustling heart. Marvel at Ottoman-era architecture, browse local artisan shops for souvenirs, and enjoy the vibrant street life. Don't miss the famous Sebilj fountain!

Sarajevo: 4-Hour Food And Craft Tour

Sarajevo: 4-Hour Food And Craft Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Looking for a truly authentic experience of local life and the way of living in Sarajevo? Look no further we got you covered! On our Food and Crafts tour you will have the opportunity to visit some of the oldest streets in the city of Sarajevo, with our local guide showing you traditional workshops and smiths along the way. Following in the footsteps of old crafts we will provide you with the experience of visiting a traditional craft shop where coffee grinders are still handmade. Besides copper crafts, Sarajevo is famous for handmade paintbrushes, which according to Sarajevo craftsmen, can be used for half a century without a decline in quality. As for food, we cannot leave you hungry. Immerse yourself in the world of delicious cheeses, unforgettable tastes of cured and smoked meat, and other dishes prepared by recipes that are centuries old. Try delicious baklava and coffee. Our goal with this tour is to enrich you with the experience of Sarajevo through the eyes of local citizens.

5.0 (69 reviews)

From $60 USD

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Attractions

4.9 (79 reviews)
Visit Herzegovina from Sarajevo in one day

Visit Herzegovina from Sarajevo in one day

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

With just one day to explore Herzegovina, this full-day tour from Sarajevo will check off all the main highlights. Explore the historic towns of Konjic, Pocitelj, and Blagaj; admire natural wonders including Jablanicko Lake and Neretva river canyon; and visit the UNESCO-listed town of Mostar, famous for its picturesque Old Town and Old Bridge. Full-day Herzegovina, Mostar, and Blagaj Tekke tour from Sarajevo. Admire the UNESCO World Heritage listed monuments of Mostar on a guided walking tour. Great-value tour includes hotel pickup, entrance fees, and round-trip transport Small-group tour limited to 15 people ensures a personalized experience.

From $75 USD

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5.0 (127 reviews)
Srebrenica Genocide Study Tour - Day Tour from Sarajevo

Srebrenica Genocide Study Tour - Day Tour from Sarajevo

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Srebrenica massacre, also known as the Srebrenica genocide was the July 1995 mass murder of more than 8,000 Muslim Bosniaks, mainly men and boys, in and around the town of Srebrenica during the Bosnian War. In ten hours, You will be able to understand fall of Yugoslavia and orchestrated massacre of Bosniak men in Srebrenica enclave.

From $82 USD

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4.7 (37 reviews)
Delicious Sarajevo: Eat, Walk & Discover City Tour

Delicious Sarajevo: Eat, Walk & Discover City Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Join us for a walking feast through Sarajevo’s old town and beyond, where every bite tells a story and every stop uncovers a new layer of the city’s rich cultural mix. Led by passionate local hosts, this tour offers authentic Bosnian flavors, local traditions, and a behind-the-scenes look into everyday life that guidebooks can't show you. You’ll taste your way through Sarajevo’s rich culinary identity—starting with freshly baked somun bread paired with smoky cured meats and artisanal cheeses, followed by hand-rolled pita and fresh yougurt. We’ll then visit a local aščinica, a traditional Bosnian eatery, where you’ll try warm, home-style dishes just like locals have for generations. The experience continues with a tasting of up to three types of rakija—or, for those who prefer non-alcoholic options, a sweet ending awaits with baklava and Bosnian coffee prepared the traditional way. We don’t just feed you—we reveal to you where East meets West in the most delicious way.

From $71 USD

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4.9 (170 reviews)
Sarajevo 1425 days under the siege - War Tour

Sarajevo 1425 days under the siege - War Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Bosnia and Herzegovina suffered a lot through its history, and the last war represents one of the hardest times. In this tour You will be told about the survival skills and more about different aspects of life under the siege. The struggle for life was an ordinary event, and the enthusiasm and pure love for the homeland were the real motivation. Do not miss to see enemy lines, homemade guns, weapons, the famous Tunnel of hope, one of the most beautiful abandoned places in the world - Bob sleigh,Jewish cemetery, etc. and of course to hear interesting stories and tales. The tour will help You clarify historical circumstances and understand nowadays life in Sarajevo. This is a unique travel through the siege and experience that You won't regret! Our guides are informative, entertaining, detailed, friendly oriented, ready to answer all of Your questions and our drivers are professionals that will, even in snowy winter days, take You to the best Trebević spots in our jeep.

From $48 USD

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4.8 (13 reviews)
Banja Luka City Tour & A magical journey on Dayak boat

Banja Luka City Tour & A magical journey on Dayak boat

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

A city trip is something that will surely attract you attention. The city walking tour has a task to show you Banja Luka in a different way. Fater the walking tour, we use the famous dayak boat to start the second phase of teh trip, which starts from the city beach, from where we drive/walk to the Banj Brdo (hill and picnic area) excursion, and after the tour, we again descend on the Vrbas River to the hot water springs where there are open bathing spas.

From $65 USD

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4.9 (14 reviews)
Sarajevo: 1984 Winter Olympics Site & Vrelo Bosne Day Trip

Sarajevo: 1984 Winter Olympics Site & Vrelo Bosne Day Trip

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

One more story that Sarajevo is famous about are the XIV Olympic games that had been hosted in our city. Our tour is created to let you experience the spirit of the Olympics and get a flashback to the 1980s. In 1984, the best EVER organized Winter Olympic Games happened in Sarajevo. You will have an opportunity to visit in one day 3 amazing mountains, starting from the Olympic stadium Kosevo and Olympic Hall Zetra, including the Olympic Museum. After that we will visit Bjelasnica, Igman and Trebevic, providing you enough time to see all charm and beauty of them, but also to hear fascinating stories about Olympics, mountains and legends of the times.

From $77 USD

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5.0 (35 reviews)
Understanding Srebrenica Genocide - Day tour from Sarajevo

Understanding Srebrenica Genocide - Day tour from Sarajevo

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

The Srebrenica massacre, also known as the Srebrenica genocide was the July 1995 genocide of more than 8,000 Bosniaks, mainly men and boys, in and around the town of Srebrenica during the Bosnian War. The killings were perpetrated by units of the Bosnian Serb Army of Republika Srpska (VRS) under the command of Ratko Mladić. You will be able to understand the fall of Yugoslavia, how and why the massacre happened.

From $82 USD

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4.9 (225 reviews)
Mostar & Herzegovina 4 Cities Day-tour from Sarajevo (fees incl.)

Mostar & Herzegovina 4 Cities Day-tour from Sarajevo (fees incl.)

MANUAL
Free Cancellation

PEACE OF MIND: Our products always include admissions/entrance fees to museums and attractions essential for unrivalled tour experiences. Visiting and exploring Mostar and Herzegovina’s 4 cities, including Konjic, Jablanica, Počitelj and Blagaj as a day tour from Sarajevo is truly the best way to fulfill your Bosnian holiday. This UNESCO-based tour is undoubtedly the best way to plunge into experiencing the region of Herzegovina and its amazingly beautiful scenery, as well as understanding its fascinating cultural diversity and mind-provoking history. What sets us apart is our dedication to providing a hassle-free experience by covering all the costs and ensuring that our guests can fully immerse themselves in the exceptional quality and unparalleled uniqueness of each tour we offer.

From $89 USD

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5.0 (211 reviews)
From Sarajevo: Travnik, Jajce, Pliva Lakes & Watermills Tour

From Sarajevo: Travnik, Jajce, Pliva Lakes & Watermills Tour

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

When you are visiting Middle Bosnia, then Travnik and Jajce are two must have to see cities. Known by long and rich history, wonderful and breath-taking nature and relaxing calmness, both of them will provide you unforgettable experience. While they are couple of hours aways from Sarajevo, you will be provided by a car, professional driver and licensed guide, who will make this tour even more fun and amazing. See Pliva lakes, popular Watermills in Jajce and Old castle in Travnik, taste best Travnik’s ćevapi and enjoy landscapes on your ride. All of that in comfy modern generation vehicle and in great company. (Private tours on request) • Visit Travnik and Jajce—plus Pliva Lakes—in one day • Let someone else take care of driving while you focus on the scenery and cultural sites • Travel with a guide who tells stories about the regional culture, history, and nature • Hassle-free, round-trip transportation from Sarajevo

From $83 USD

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5.0 (29 reviews)
Hiking between Bosnia and Herzegovina

Hiking between Bosnia and Herzegovina

MANUAL

5-day hiking adventure on the mountains that form the border between Bosnia and Herzegovina. It includes 4 different mountains, sleeping at 3 different locations, all part of white trail of Via Dinarica, and offer the best and most diverse hiking options. From rocky highlands of Čvrsnica, to rocky peaks of Prenj to grasslands on Bjelašnica, deep Rakitnica canyon, and the ridges of Visočica. All the trails are very beautiful and represent the best of each of the mountains. Yet, all of them are different from each other.

From $915 USD

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5.0 (30 reviews)
Full-Day Herzegovina Tour with Blagaj, Pocitel and Kravice Waterfalls

Full-Day Herzegovina Tour with Blagaj, Pocitel and Kravice Waterfalls

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

My name is Miran, and over the last 20 years of my life I have guided fellow travelers like you on my famous Enjoy Herzegovina tour. I was born and raised in Mostar, which I consider one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and have since built a hostel and tour business. I have unique insight into the history of my region, a region that both experienced times of prosperity and the horrors of war, a history I feel moved to share with people from across the world. You will be picked up from my hostel, Hostel Miran, which is just 5 minutes away from the Bus Station, and will be transported in a comfortable and air conditioned minivan. You will see Blagaj Dervish Monastery, Pocitelj Castle and the surrounding area, and of course, the beautiful Kravice Waterfalls. Afterwards, we'll drive up Mountain Fortica with the best views of Mostar and the newly built Sky walking bridge. Entrance into waterfalls included in price. Please bring your passport, swimwear and towel.

From $60 USD

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5.0 (1 reviews)
Five Days in Amazing Bosnia and Herzegovina

Five Days in Amazing Bosnia and Herzegovina

INSTANT
Free Cancellation

Learn how to get around the narrow streets of the Old town and find out which are the main areas which host the city's cultural and nightlife. The tour includes a visit to the highest and most isolated mountainous village in Bosnia and Herzegovina which is situated 1.500 m above sea level.

From $4640 USD

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