20 Hidden Gems & Locations To Go to In Bosnia And Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina, usually hailed as certainly one of Europe’s most underrated international locations, affords a novel mix of pure magnificence, wealthy Ottoman structure, and vibrant metropolis life. This information is a group of our entire crew’s strategies on the most effective locations to go to, reflecting our shared ardour for this enchanting nation.

From the sprawling streets of Sarajevo, its greatest metropolis, to the serenity of a tiny village, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a haven for nature lovers and cultural lovers alike.

Be part of us as we discover these handpicked areas, each a testomony to why Bosnia and Herzegovina is a good place for an unforgettable expertise.

Bosnia and Herzegovina, one of many least visited international locations in Europe (777,000 worldwide vacationer arrivals), is commonly forgotten whereas planning a backpacking journey by means of Europe.

Like many Balkan international locations, it’s caught within the shadows of extra in style vacationer locations in Western Europe. Nonetheless, this isn’t for lack of pure magnificence, tradition, historical past, affordability, or any high quality that makes a journey vacation spot nice.

Scarred from the horrific civil struggle that tore the nation aside within the Nineties, Bosnia-Herzegovina has slowly constructed its popularity anew, and whispers are beginning to circle round journey circles as soon as extra.

Although the writing is on the partitions — its darkish historical past may be seen clear as day throughout the nation — with its craggily, heartbreaking remnants of the Bosnian struggle that devastated the nation. What’s left is a touching story of character and a united nation — one which speaks volumes of the human heat and hospitality you’ll encounter.

Between its stunning mountains, its gushing white water rivers, its crumbling medieval castles left in ruins, huge and plentiful waterfalls, and inexpensive but shocking ski slopes, there’s a little one thing for everybody on this nation, and what meets the attention is simply half of what there’s to see and do in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

All of us fell in love with Bosnia Herzegovina, and we will’t get our minds off of it.

Though the nation doesn’t see hordes of vacationers like different locations in Europe, there’s nonetheless a heat and pleasant vacationer path resulting in some unbelievable secrets and techniques in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

This checklist is a compilation of a few of our favourite locations to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, so that you don’t have to fret about lacking out on the journey. 

High Locations In Bosnia And Herzegovina

As promised, we’ve got put collectively an inventory of prime locations to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina to make planning in your trip this yr a breeze.

This checklist under no circumstances encompasses all of the issues to do in Bosnia and Herzegovina, although we tried to cowl a wide range of actions and locations everywhere in the nation.

With out additional ado, right here they’re:

Historic & Cultural Websites

1. Sarajevo Bobsleigh Observe

Completed in 1982 in preparation for the Winter Olympics, which Sarajevo had the glory of internet hosting in 1984, this 4,000-foot bobsleigh and luge monitor turned a type of image of nationwide pleasure in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It garnered loads of consideration as a result of nature, surroundings, and multitude of occasions held across the monitor’s neighborhood in the course of the World Video games. Then, a number of years later, the monitor was ready for use for numerous issues involving the World Cup competitions, and it appeared as if the funding within the monitor would pay long-lasting dividends.

Nonetheless, then, the Yugoslav Wars started in 1991, and, like a majority of the nation, the monitor changed into a battlefield. The character of the monitor being curved and inclined made it a main vantage level within the battle, and it was destroyed over the course of a number of years. All the system turned blanketed in bullet holes.

It was left in ruins however not forgotten. It has develop into a favourite spot for locals as a reminder of the instances. Graffiti artists have taken a liking to it, too, masking the whole concrete course in unbelievable, colourful avenue artwork.

It’s being reconstructed in hopes of salvaging it in some way; nevertheless, excursions can nonetheless be taken, and historical past can nonetheless be seen. Cautious, although; many unexploded landmines nonetheless lay across the space — so don’t enterprise too removed from the well-beaten path.

It’s best to take a neighborhood or somebody who is aware of the realm with you to be protected. You may negotiate a good worth with a taxi as it’s a moderately in style vacationer vacation spot. It is without doubt one of the hottest vacationer sights in the whole metropolis.

2. Museum Of The Assassination Of Franz Ferdinand

To stick with the struggle theme we’ve got encountered throughout a lot of Bosnia and Herzegovina, you should go to the Museum of the Assassination of Franz Ferdinand.

Many individuals don’t know that on the twenty eighth of June, 1914, World Conflict I truly began within the coronary heart of Sarajevo when the world was flipped the other way up. Archduke Franz Ferdinand was shot and killed, which set off a hurricane of occasions resulting in the First World Conflict.

Now, a museum has been arrange within the constructing throughout the road from the historic scene the place you’ll be taught that the younger schoolboy who shot the archduke that fateful day was not performing alone.

A number of assassination makes an attempt failed that day, and the boy was presupposed to solely play a minor function within the plot to kill Franz Ferdinand.

With years and years of clashing empires in Europe, a scenario equivalent to this was all that was wanted to set off a battle to the magnitude of an eventual world struggle. And it began in modern-day Bosnia and Herzegovina.

3. Outdated Jewish Cemetery Of Sarajevo

With almost 4,000 centuries-old tombstones, weathered and in ruins, this cemetery was the location of an distinctive army place for battle in the course of the Yugoslav Conflict of the Nineties. Located on the mountainside, the cemetery was wanted for its wonderful vantage level. Due to that, the location was closely defended, together with landmines, amongst different techniques.

Due to the mines left over from the struggle, the cemetery turned inaccessible for a number of years after the struggle had ended. It was estimated that the cemetery grounds nonetheless had over 70 undetonated landmines sitting in its thick grasses.

Right this moment, the landmines are stated to be cleaned up, and it has returned to a web site the place you’ll be able to witness the historical past and acceptance of Sarajevo — which served as a refuge to Jews of the late fifteenth Century from hostile Spanish rule.

On the town, you’ll find a Jewish quarter with a big synagogue and plenty of different cultural and historic websites tailor-made to the faith.

4. Bascarsija

Located alongside the banks of the Miljacka River, you’ll be able to see one of many few remaining examples of oriental structure within the Balkans at Sarajevo’s primary attraction — the previous bazaar, Bascarsija.

The identify is derived from two phrases, translated to “Most important Avenue.” Right here, you could find all types of crafts and artisan work, starting from pottery to jewellery and metalwork. Nonetheless, lots of the previous artisan retailers have now been transformed to vacationer memento retailers and cafes to go well with their guests higher.

Navigate your method by means of this community of slender streets and attempt your hand at bargaining with the locals.

Though the realm has been closely influenced and affected by war-torn historical past, after the Second World Conflict, the bazaar of Bascarsija finally turned a logo of town as soon as extra.

5. Dervish Monastery In Blagaj

Solely quarter-hour by automobile from Mostar lies the long-lasting Dervish monastery of Blagaj. That is one other in style cease on bus journeys from Dubrovnik to Mostar and makes for probably the greatest day journeys from Mostar.

Recognized domestically because the Blagaj Tekija, it’s a putting assortment of historic buildings and the pure marvel that’s the Buna River spring. Not surprisingly, it is a nationwide monument in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Individuals have constructed picturesque monasteries throughout Europe, however this one is among the many most stunning. This 16^th-century Ottoman Empire Dervish monastery sits comfortably on the base of an enormous rock wall whereas crystal-clear spring water calmly flows by. It’s as magical a spot as you’ll discover wherever within the Balkans.

A number of eating places line the river, wonderful spots for a calming lunch. Attempt a neighborhood trout dish!

Pure Wonders & Parks

6. Kravice Waterfalls

Making a scene you may look forward to finding in South America or Africa, Kravice Waterfall sits deep within the thick of Europe’s final remaining jungle. Who knew there was a sister falls of the famed Iguazu Falls, and it’s hiding within the Balkans of all locations!

This spectacular feat of Mom Nature drops so far as 85 ft and expands almost 500 ft throughout a number of falls alongside a cliff’s edge. There’s even a rope swing!

The Kravice Falls are most simply visited on a day journey from the favored vacationer city of Mostar in Southwest Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is sort of a miniature reproduction of the Iguazu Falls however with out the hordes of individuals, which the South American falls now will get.

You may be part of a tour to go to this unimaginable space, however most individuals would advocate renting a automobile and even bargaining for a good taxi journey to the falls relatively than being caught with a gaggle on this magical place. Be sure you carry your digicam; it is a photog’s dream!

7. Watermills Of Jajce

These little picket huts had vital use years in the past. Now, they’re a reminder of how life was once. The city of Jajce in central Bosnia has at all times been a middle of motion. On the conflux of the Kravice and Vrbas rivers, the city has gained worldwide fame for its breathtaking waterfall in the course of city. It was as soon as the capital of the (former) Kingdom of Bosnia.

It’s a hotspot for tourism these days, given the serene nature, waterfalls, mountains, deep valleys, and fortified metropolis partitions and castles. Many individuals flock to this metropolis on their Bosnian journey – effectively, at the least that’s what Ana tells us.

And when you go additional downriver, close to the Pliva Lakes, you’ll find these huts that sit above quickly flowing water — a logo of ingenious engineering of easier instances. As an alternative of utilizing one massive waterwheel, these small water mills used the facility of many smaller mechanisms to be able to floor native farmers’ wheat into flour—a formidable concept of the Austro-Hungarian empire.

8. Sutjeska Nationwide Park

Deep throughout the coronary heart of Bosnia-Herzegovina lies Sutjeska Nationwide Park, a hidden gem usually missed by vacationers.

This pristine wilderness affords a serene escape from metropolis life, free from crowds and vacationer traps. One of many park’s best-kept secrets and techniques is the enchanting Perucica Primeval Forest. Towering timber, untouched for hundreds of years, create a fairytale-like environment.

Mountaineering and wildlife recognizing are prime actions right here, with an opportunity to come across brown bears, wolves, and chamois.

For the adventurous, a hike to Maglic Mountain, Bosnia-Herzegovina’s highest peak, affords breathtaking views of rugged landscapes. Be ready for a demanding trek. Sutjeska Nationwide Park rewards these looking for genuine out of doors experiences with unparalleled magnificence and tranquility.

For those who crave a peaceable, off-the-beaten-path journey in Bosnia-Herzegovina, make sure that Sutjeska Nationwide Park is in your checklist.

9. Japodski Otoci, Una Nationwide Park

Situated within the middle of Una Nationwide Park, you’ll find Japodski Otoci, which mainly interprets to ‘Japanese Islands.’ Seize your strolling footwear and take a wander across the space, which consists of 5 completely different islands linked by rivers and waterfalls.

This actually appears like one thing from a fairytale e book, and also you’ll discover a restaurant and loads of spots to take a seat and catch your breath.

This can be a chic place to let the children run free. There may be a number of room for the little ones to unfold about and loosen up.

10. Visoko – Mysterious Bosnian Pyramids

Visoko is a city just a few half-hour outdoors Sarajevo, greatest identified for its historical pyramids. You learn that proper – whereas there’s no concrete proof that the large pyramid-shaped hills are burial sights, their look alone was sufficient to spice up the realm’s tourism considerably.

You too can discover underground labyrinths located beneath the “pyramids,” in addition to go to a museum that boasts a big assortment of things excavated there.

Whether or not or not you truly consider that these are the oldest human-made pyramids is as much as you, however it’s actually value visiting and seeing them with your individual two eyes. One of many prime half-day journeys from Sarajevo for certain!

Iconic Buildings & Architectural Marvels

11. Stari Most

Talking of Mostar, a go to to Bosnia and Herzegovina wouldn’t be full with out a cease on this tiny fairy story city. And the prized attraction? The Outdated Bridge connects the 2 sides of the city throughout the Neretva River.

The Outdated Bridge of Mostar (Stari Most) was destroyed in a matter of seconds in the course of the Yugoslav Wars by Croatia in November of 1993 — although its development (beginning in 1557) took 9 years to finish in the course of the Turkish Ottoman rule.

Magnificent due to its simplicity — solely a single 100-foot lengthy, 75-foot excessive bridge arching over the river — Stari Most was symbolic of town of Mostar. When the well-known Stari Most bridge went down, unhappiness befell the individuals of town.

That’s why development started firstly of the brand new millennium to rebuild the as soon as grand construction to its former glory. In 2004, the bridge was accomplished once more.

Right this moment, it stays a logo of Mostar, and plenty of vacationers and locals alike like to spend time across the bridge, taking in its magnificence and symbolism.

In case you are fortunate, you could even go to whereas locals are doing their famed free-fall leaps to the river beneath. In case you are courageous sufficient, you’ll be able to be part of them.

Nonetheless, they may usually leap for any crowd who’s keen to tip their efficiency on the proper worth.

12. Historic Village Of Počitelj

Generally referred to as the “Pearl of Herzegovina,” the traditional village of Počitelj is a traditional stopping level en route from Dubrovnik to Mostar. It lies simply north of the Croatian border, a few 30-minute drive south of Mostar.

Situated on the left financial institution of the Neretva River—which, by the best way, additionally flows by means of the guts of Mostar and proper beneath the Stari Most—Počitelj sits in a pure amphitheater and was once a strategically vital city. That is nonetheless evident due to the still-present fortified stone partitions and a fortress. Different landmarks embody an previous mosque and a bell tower that gives astounding panoramic views.

This historic city thrived from the 16^th to the 18^th centuries. Its evolution occurred over two distinct durations—the medieval and Ottoman durations. Presently, Počitelj is on the Tentative Listing of UNESCO, being thought-about for inclusion within the World Heritage Web site checklist.

13. The Cable Automotive In Sarajevo

For those who’re not afraid of heights, you must positively journey the Trebević cable automobile. It’s enjoyable, and also you’ll get to expertise unimaginable views of town. Plus, when you journey the cable automobile, you’ll be able to truly go to the Trebević mountain.

The cable automobile symbolizes town; it was initially opened in 1959, however it was destroyed in the course of the siege. It was reconstructed in the previous few years, and it lastly opened to the general public in 2018.

The journey lasts about 7 minutes, and it’s fairly enjoyable. You may get out once you get to the highest, or you’ll be able to keep within the cabin and make your method again to town – it’s as much as you. For those who resolve to get out and discover Trebević, positively go to the deserted bobsleigh monitor talked about beforehand, as that’s probably the most iconic spots on the mountain.

And when you’re not within the temper to stroll across the mountain, you’ll be able to full the whole journey in some 20 minutes.

Distinctive Experiences & Actions

14. Eat Dinner At Restaurant River Dock In Bihać

You gained’t get a greater location to eat dinner in Bihać than sitting on a picket boat bobbing on the Una River within the little village of Ripač. Head to the River Dock for lunch or dinner (dinner is best, due to the sundown!)

Because the final rays of daylight glitter on the water’s edge, you’ll be off in your merry method, chugging slowly in direction of a waterfall as you take pleasure in conventional Bosnian meals. Sounds made upright? I promise it’s certainly true!

The encircling inexperienced surroundings makes you are feeling such as you’re one million miles from something, and the meals is, after all, additionally relatively excellent. Cevapi and meats, trout, soups,  you select!

The expertise lasts an hour, and if you’re not eager on being on a ship for that lengthy, then you can even take pleasure in the tasty native delicacies within the restaurant by the shade of the backyard, the place there is a perfect place for teenagers to roam and play!

15. Bullfights Of Grmec

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkAycnmaNss

Grmeč is well known for its bullfights, also called Bull wrestling, throughout the Balkans. Known as the Corrida of Grmeč (Grmečka korida), these occasions have been held each first Sunday in August for greater than 200 years, drawing in quite a few spectators.

Nonetheless, in contrast to in Spanish custom, people don’t intervene within the combat, and the fights by no means lead to dying. The combat follows the bulls’ pure intuition. Subsequently, if a bull is aware of it’s shedding, he’ll again down from the opposite bull.

Bullfights like this happen throughout western Bosnia, and they’re nonetheless, to today, revered as a exhibiting of historical origin. The fights are normally organized each first Sunday in August, so if you’re touring at the moment and may abdomen the considered combating, end up a ticket to the occasion and take a look at a pastime of Bosnian heritage.

16. Cross Mountain Of Medjugorje

The Cross Mountain of Medjugorje is a hidden gem ready to be explored. This lesser-known spot holds nice significance for these looking for a novel religious expertise.

The journey to this sacred web site begins with a hike up a rugged path, surrounded by lush greenery and the sounds of nature. It’s not a strenuous trek, however it does require a little bit of stamina.

On the summit, you’ll be greeted by a towering white cross that stands as a logo of religion and hope. The view from right here is solely breathtaking, providing panoramic vistas of the picturesque Herzegovina panorama. I’ve had the privilege of constructing this hike twice, as soon as with three of my aunties aged between 50-70, and so they managed it with none main points – however it was a gradual grind up. It’s a testomony to the accessible nature of this hike.

Many guests describe a way of peace and tranquility that washes over them as they take within the serene great thing about the environment. Whereas the Cross Mountain of Medjugorje is probably not on each traveler’s radar, it’s a spot value including to your itinerary when you’re on the lookout for a novel and significant expertise.

Whether or not you’re a religious pilgrim or just looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of on a regular basis life, this hidden treasure guarantees a second of reflection and reference to nature. So, lace up your climbing boots, embrace the journey, and uncover Cross Mountain’s serene appeal for your self.

Conflict Historical past & Remembrance

17. Sarajevo Conflict Tunnel Museum

As is with most sights round Bosnia and Herzegovina, there’s a heavy struggle affect with a lot actual historical past surrounding the location. As you’ll be able to inform, this nation was deeply impacted by violence and a darkish previous, and, as we stated, the historical past is written on the partitions.

The Sarajevo Conflict Tunnel Museum is simply one other occasion of historical past changing into part of the nation’s current. Development of the tunnel, which was codenamed “Objekt BD,” started in 1993 to guard a big a part of the metropolis from the Serbian siege.

The tunnel was amazingly dug by hand and shovel, as it is possible for you to to see upon visiting. After tireless work and days and days of occupation by laborers who had been paid in cigarettes, the 2 sides of the tunnel lastly met within the canine days of July to create a 2,500-foot shelter, which was strengthened by metal and concrete.

To complete, a miniature railway was constructed to shuttle in meals and different provides to these looking for refuge. Now, it stays an ode to the guts of the Sarajevo individuals.

18. Tunnel Of Hope

Hidden away within the coronary heart of Bosnia-Herzegovina lies the Tunnel of Hope, a lesser-known gem that gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s tumultuous historical past. Situated on the outskirts of Sarajevo, this unassuming underground passage performed a significant function in the course of the Bosnian Conflict within the early ’90s. Whereas it could not boast grandeur or opulence, its historic significance is plain.

The Tunnel of Hope was a lifeline in the course of the siege of Sarajevo, connecting the besieged metropolis to the free territory past the airport. This slender, dimly lit tunnel allowed provides, meals, and even individuals to cross by means of, providing a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos of struggle. Right this moment, a portion of the tunnel is open to the general public, offering a thought-provoking journey by means of the previous.

You may discover the preserved part of the tunnel, viewing artifacts, pictures, and displays that inform the harrowing story of survival and resilience. It’s a stark reminder of the challenges confronted by the individuals of Sarajevo throughout these darkish days.

For those who’re a historical past fanatic or just interested by this area’s turbulent previous, a go to to the Tunnel of Hope is a should. It’s a possibility to achieve a deeper understanding of Bosnia-Herzegovina’s historical past and the indomitable spirit of its individuals, all whereas stepping again in time by means of this hidden hall of hope.

19. Zeljava Airbase

Objekat 505, as it’s formally identified, is simply over the border with Croatia and is the most important underground airport base within the nation.

Just like one thing you may anticipate to see at Space 51 or in Star Wars, Zeljava Airbase served as a strategic command middle for Bosnian and Herzegovinian protection in the course of the Yugoslav Conflict.

Secretly constructed in the course of the twentieth Century for a whopping six billion {dollars} (3 times the annual finances of the Balkans’ two largest army forces in Serbia and Croatia), the airbase turned a army astonishment — even constructed to face up to a blast from a nuclear warhead.

Nonetheless, a number of years later, the Yugoslav Nationwide Military determined to destroy its performance utilizing built-in explosives to stop it from being utilized by anybody else.

Sadly, due to the European refugee disaster, this web site has develop into fairly onerous to succeed in. Due to its location close to the border, many police patrol the realm, and if caught, you’ll have to pay a fantastic. Although, we nonetheless assume it’s value seeing, even when you need to danger it!

Main Cities & City Exploration

20. Banja Luka – The Second Largest Metropolis In BiH

Banja Luka is a fairly picturesque place, and it’s someplace you’ll positively wish to snap some pictures. As you head to the Excessive Avenue, you’ll see brightly coloured umbrellas hanging over the road and plenty of small boutique shops to take a look at.

Undoubtedly go to the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour and head inside for unbelievable structure.

Kastel Fortress and Ferhadija Mosque are two different must-visits. This metropolis is the second largest within the nation, and there’s a lot to see and do. You can keep right here for a few days and benefit from the laid-back vibe. Oh, and the nightlife right here is fairly vibrant, too, in response to Adam.

The place Is Bosnia And Herzegovina?

With simply over 3.5 million individuals residing in the whole nation, Bosnia and Herzegovina actually aren’t as busy as different Balkan international locations. There may be loads of area to discover, too. It is without doubt one of the bigger international locations, landlocked between three different Balkans international locations within the area’s middle: Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro.

Individuals who go to Bosnia and Herzegovina usually embody surrounding international locations of their itineraries. All the area across the nation is completely attractive and affords a large number of nature scenes and issues to do.

When To Go to Bosnia And Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina actually shines year-round, welcoming guests by means of snowy winters and balmy summers. Recognized for its wonderful snowboarding situations, the nation transforms right into a winter wonderland, good for individuals who love the slopes. In distinction, the hotter months supply lush, well-kept climbing trails, perfect for exploring the nice outdoor.

The nation’s medieval castles are a delight below the summer season solar, but they acquire a magical attract when draped in winter snow.

Nonetheless, if snowboarding isn’t your primary draw, contemplate a go to in the course of the hotter seasons. This fashion, you’ll be able to totally take pleasure in Bosnia and Herzegovina’s gorgeous rivers and lakes, that are at their greatest when the climate is gentle.

Remaining Phrase On Locations In Bosnia And Herzegovina

Although Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t the primary nation in your checklist of locations to see in Europe, it doesn’t imply it’s lacking the pizazz, which makes it particular.

We love this nation, and a part of the rationale why is as a result of we really feel we’ve got actually beat the crowds to this stunning nation. It nonetheless seems like an unfound gem inside a area that’s rising in recognition day by day.

As we conclude our journey by means of Bosnia and Herzegovina, do not forget that every nook of this nation boasts a number of the most stunning locations on earth. Whether or not you search tranquility or journey, Bosnia and Herzegovina is the proper place, genuinely value visiting for a memorable and enriching expertise.