Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country located in Europe with name that begins with letter B. Bosnia is a mountainous country with two faces: in the north and east the lush forests and wild river landscapes of the Bosnian mountains dominate; in the south and south-west, the Herzegovina plateau, located at an average of 1,200 m above sea level, surprises with a special form of vegetation, the “green karst”.
The young Balkan state covers an area of around 51,000 km², which is slightly larger than Switzerland, and is inhabited by only 3.8 million people.
The capital Sarajevo is Bosnia’s only large city with over 300,000 residents. In the oriental-looking historical center, Muslim mosques stand next to Catholic or Orthodox churches and Jewish temples – a mix that is unique in Europe and which has earned the city the nickname “Little Jerusalem”.
Most of the national territory lies in the Dinaric Mountains, the highest peaks in the country rise in the Maglić massif on the border with Montenegro and reach an altitude of almost 2,400 meters. An approximately 20 km narrow coastal strip also gives Bosnia access to the Adriatic Sea.
Entry
A passport or ID card that is valid for at least three months upon entry is sufficient. A visa is mandatory for stays longer than three months.
Climate
In the regions near the coast, the Mediterranean climate ensures mild, humid winters and hot, dry summers. Further inland there is a continental climate with large temperature differences between winter and summer.
The months from April to October are considered the best travel time.
Food and drink
In Bosnia’s cuisine, Balkan traditions mix with historical influences from the Ottoman and the Austro-Hungarian era. Grilled meat, stuffed vegetables, cevapcici and burek, a strudel filled with meat, sheep cheese or mushrooms, dominate the menu. Oriental specialties such as baklava as well as old Austrian pastries are offered for dessert. The coffee is usually drunk as sweet Turkish mocha, which is served in small copper jugs.
Medical advice
No vaccinations are required for trips to Bosnia-Herzegovina. A vaccination against TBE is recommended, especially when staying in the north of the country. Since the medical care does not meet Central European standards, it is advisable to take a first-aid kit with you with bandages, disposable syringes and medication against common travel illnesses.
Security
Bosnia is a largely safe country to travel to – with one exception: away from roads and paths, mines and duds from the Yugoslav war are still a danger. Corresponding warning signs are often mounted far apart or are difficult to see. We strongly advise against cross-country tours on your own.
Cultural characteristics
Numerous ethnic groups and four religions shape the image of Bosnia. Foreigners often lack perspective. You should be very reluctant to take part in discussions on national or religious topics, if at all.
Climate and travel time
Continental climate in the interior with cold winters and warm summers, near the coast a Mediterranean climate with less pronounced temperature fluctuations.
Spring and autumn are ideal for culture and simple active trips, and the months from the end of June to the end of September for hiking trips in the high mountains.
All about money
Currency
The Bosnian currency is the convertible mark (currency abbreviation BAM).
The EURO is a second currency in Bosnia and you can use it to pay anywhere.
Money
There is no need to exchange cash. It is advisable to bring enough cash in euros with you. Credit cards are only accepted in exceptional cases or in cities. In larger cities, you can easily withdraw cash from an ATM.
