See & Do

Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina: A Journey Through Time, Nature, and Cultural Diversity

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country with a rich history, stunning nature, delicious food, and hospitable people. Visitors can explore ancient cities and cultural landmarks, hike in national parks and mountain ranges, raft in the crystal-clear rivers, and savor traditional cuisine and coffee.

Nature

National Parks

Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several stunning national parks, each offering unique natural landscapes and outdoor experiences. The national parks in Bosnia and Herzegovina are:

Sutjeska National Park

Located in the southeastern part of the country, Sutjeska National Park is the oldest and largest national park in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is known for its diverse ecosystems, breathtaking mountain scenery, and the magnificent primeval forest of Perućica. The park is also home to the highest peak in the country, Maglić Mountain.

Una National Park

Situated in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Una National Park is named after the Una River, known for its crystal-clear waters and numerous waterfalls. The park features stunning landscapes, dense forests, and diverse wildlife, including brown bears, wolves, and eagles. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, rafting, and exploring the beautiful Una River Canyon.

Kozara National Park

Located in the northwestern part of the country, Kozara National Park is characterized by rolling hills, lush forests, and meadows. It is known for its rich biodiversity, cultural heritage, and World War II memorial sites. The park offers various outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and picnicking.

Drina National Park

Nature Parks

Hutovo Blato Nature Park

Although not a national park, Hutovo Blato is a significant nature park in Herzegovina. It is a vast wetland area, home to numerous bird species and diverse wildlife. Hutovo Blato is a haven for birdwatchers, and visitors can explore the park’s waterways by boat or enjoy walking and cycling trails.

Blidinje Nature Park

Blidinje Nature Park is a picturesque protected area located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse flora and fauna, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and outdoor recreation.

These national parks and nature park provide opportunities for outdoor activities, nature appreciation, and wildlife encounters. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, these protected areas offer memorable experiences in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Mountains

Bosnia and Herzegovina is known for their stunning mountain ranges that offer a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountaineering. The highest mountain in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Maglic, which stands at 2,386 meters. Some of the other notable mountain ranges in Bosnia and Herzegovina include the Dinaric Alps, Prenj, Bjelasnica, Jahorina, Vlasic, and Romanija, each with its own unique landscapes, flora and fauna, and cultural heritage. These mountains also offer breathtaking views and are a popular destination for tourists and adventurers alike.

Lakes

Bosnia and Herzegovina is home to several beautiful lakes, each with its own unique features and attractions. Here are some of the most notable lakes in the country:

Buško Lake

Located in western Bosnia & Herzegovina, Buško Lake is the largest artificial reservoir in the country. It covers an impressive surface area of 55,7 square kilometers and offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding or just enjoying the surrounding scenery.

Pliva Lakes

Situated near the town of Jajce, the Pliva Lakes are a system of two interconnected lakes, the Great Pliva Lake and the Small Pliva Lake. These lakes are renowned for their emerald-green color and beautiful waterfalls. They provide a picturesque setting for various water activities and are surrounded by lush forests.

Boračko Lake

Nestled in the picturesque mountains of Central Bosnia, Boračko Lake offers a tranquil escape for nature lovers. Surrounded by dense forests, this artificial lake is perfect for swimming, fishing, and enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Jablanica Lake

Located near the town of Jablanica, this reservoir was created by damming the Neretva River. It is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for boating, jet skiing, and kayaking.

Modrac Lake

Situated near the city of Tuzla, Modrac Lake is a man-made reservoir known for its clear waters and scenic surroundings. It attracts visitors seeking relaxation, swimming, and fishing.

Ramsko Lake

Located in the southwestern part of the country, Ramsko Lake is surrounded by mountains and offers a serene atmosphere. It provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

These lakes offer visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina, whether it’s swimming, boating, fishing, or simply enjoying the stunning views.

Waterfalls

Bosnia and Herzegovina is blessed with stunning waterfalls that captivate visitors with their natural beauty and serene ambiance. Here are some noteworthy waterfalls you should consider exploring:

Kravice Waterfalls

Located near the town of Ljubuški, the Kravice Waterfalls are a true natural wonder. This series of cascading waterfalls spans over 100 meters in width and drops about 25 meters, creating a breathtaking sight. The surrounding lush greenery and crystal-clear pools make it a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and capturing memorable photographs.

Skakavac Waterfall

Situated near Sarajevo, the Skakavac Waterfall is a hidden gem tucked within the dense forests of the Mt. Bjelašnica range. Plunging from a height of 98 meters, this magnificent waterfall offers a picturesque setting for nature enthusiasts and hikers. A hiking trail leads to an observation point where you can enjoy panoramic views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscapes.

Martin Brod Waterfalls

Located in the Una National Park, the Martin Brod Waterfalls offer a tranquil escape in the northwest region of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Una River gracefully cascades over a series of smaller waterfalls, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The park provides opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the unspoiled beauty of the surrounding nature.

Bliha Waterfalls

The Bliha Waterfalls present a picturesque and serene setting. Surrounded by lush forests, these cascades flow over a series of rock formations, creating a soothing soundscape. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping spots, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Pliva Waterfall

Situated in the town of Jajce, the Pliva Waterfall is a stunning natural attraction that cascades from the Pliva River into the Vrbas River. The waterfall is particularly captivating due to its unique location amidst the town’s historical center. Visitors can witness the enchanting sight of the water flowing over moss-covered rocks, creating a magical atmosphere.

Štrbački Buk

Located on the Una River near the town of Bihać, Štrbački Buk is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the region. The powerful cascades and emerald green waters offer a mesmerizing spectacle. Visitors can enjoy boat rides, swim in the river, or simply soak in the picturesque views of this natural wonder.

Exploring these waterfalls allows tourists to reconnect with nature, experience the soothing sounds of rushing water, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty that Bosnia and Herzegovina has to offer. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, these waterfalls will leave you with lasting memories of their natural splendor.

Rivers

Bosnia and Herzegovina is well-known for its beautiful rivers, which are popular for various water-based activities like rafting, kayaking, and fishing. The most famous rivers in the country are the Una, Neretva, Vrbas, Drina, and Bosna.

The Una River, located in the northwest of the country, is known for its crystal-clear waters and numerous waterfalls, making it a popular spot for rafting, kayaking, and swimming.

The Neretva River, flowing through the southern part of the country, is known for its emerald green color and is another popular destination for rafting and kayaking.

The Vrbas River, located in central Bosnia, is a popular spot for white-water rafting, while the Drina River, which forms part of the country’s eastern border with Serbia, is known for its picturesque landscape and is a popular spot for fishing.

Finally, the Bosna River, which flows through the capital city of Sarajevo, is known for its beautiful scenery and is a popular spot for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

Caves

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a number of interesting caves, many of which are still being explored and mapped. Some of the most notable ones include:

Vjetrenica Cave

Vjetrenica Cave – located near the town of Ravno, this is one of the largest and most beautiful caves in the country. It is known for its extensive underground lakes and unique rock formations.

Orlovača cave

Orlovača Cave – located near the town of Pale, this cave is known for its beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. It is also home to a number of bat species.

Bijambare Cave

Bijambare Cave – located near the town of Ilijaš, this cave features a number of interesting rock formations, as well as underground streams and lakes.

These are just a few of the many caves that can be found throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, each with their own unique features and attractions. Visitors interested in exploring these caves should plan to take guided tours with experienced cavers or spelunkers.

Outdoor Activities

Hiking

Hiking is a popular activity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with numerous trails and routes available for all levels of experience. Some of the most popular hiking destinations include the mountains of Bjelašnica, Jahorina, and Trebević near Sarajevo (get hiking routs), Prenj, Čvrsnica & Velež near Mostar.

The Via Dinarica trail, which runs through the Dinaric Alps, also offers extensive hiking opportunities. Additionally, national parks such as Sutjeska and Una offer guided hiking tours, and there are several hiking clubs and organizations throughout the country.

Camping

Camping in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great way to experience the country’s beautiful nature and outdoor activities. There are numerous campgrounds throughout the country, ranging from basic sites with minimal facilities to fully equipped campgrounds with modern amenities.

Camping Oaza

Camping is generally affordable, with prices varying depending on the location and the level of amenities provided. It is important to note that some camping areas may require a permit, so it’s always best to check ahead before setting up camp.

Skiing

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a growing reputation as a great skiing destination. The country has several ski resorts, many of which are located in the mountains of central and eastern Bosnia. Some of the most popular ski resorts in Bosnia and Herzegovina include Jahorina, Bjelasnica, and Vlasic.

Jahorina is the largest and most developed ski resort in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it hosted the women’s alpine skiing events during the 1984 Winter Olympics. It has 20 kilometers of ski runs and a number of ski lifts, as well as a snow park and other facilities.

Bjelasnica is another popular ski resort, located just outside of Sarajevo, and it hosted the men’s alpine skiing events during the 1984 Winter Olympics. It has a range of ski runs, as well as cross-country skiing trails and backcountry skiing opportunities.

Vlasic is a smaller ski resort, located in the mountains of central Bosnia. It has around 14 kilometers of ski runs, as well as a snow park and other facilities.

Other ski resorts in Bosnia and Herzegovina include Kupres, Blidinje, and Ravna Planina. In addition to downhill skiing, many of these resorts offer cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and other winter activities.

Rafting

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a great destination for rafting, with several rivers offering exciting experiences. Some of the most popular rivers for rafting include the Tara, the Neretva, and the Una.

The Tara River, which is located in the east of the country, is known for its deep canyons and crystal clear water. It is also the second deepest canyon in the world, making it a unique and thrilling rafting experience, with rapids ranging from class III to class V.

The Neretva River, which flows through the south of the country, is also a popular rafting destination, with rapids ranging from class II to class IV.

The Una River, located in the northwest, offers a scenic and relaxing rafting experience, with stunning waterfalls and green forests along the way, with rapids ranging from class II to class IV.

Other rivers in Bosnia and Herzegovina that offer rafting opportunities include the Vrbas, the Drina, and the Sana.

There are many tour operators and rafting centers located near these rivers that offer guided tours and equipment rental. Some of them also offer multi-day rafting trips that include camping and other activities. Rafting season typically runs from April to October, depending on the river and weather conditions.

Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the country having a large number of rivers, lakes and other bodies of water. The most popular fish species for fishing include trout, grayling, carp, catfish, pike, and perch.

There are numerous fishing locations throughout the country, including the rivers Una, Sana, Drina, Neretva, and Trebišnjica, as well as the Pliva and Boračko lakes.

Visitors must obtain a fishing permit before fishing in Bosnia and Herzegovina, which can be purchased from local tourist agencies, fishing associations or directly from the authorities responsible for the relevant fishing area. Fishing regulations vary depending on the location, season and type of fish, and visitors are advised to check these before fishing.

Cultural and Historical Sites

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

There are three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

The Old Bridge Area of the Old City of Mostar

This historic bridge and the surrounding area represent a masterpiece of Ottoman-era architecture and engineering.

Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad

This 16th-century bridge is considered to be one of the finest examples of Ottoman architecture and engineering.

Stećci Medieval Tombstones Graveyards

These medieval tombstones are found throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina, and are considered to be some of the most significant and unique cultural artifacts of the region.

Museums

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich history and cultural heritage, and there are numerous museums throughout the country that showcase its past and present. Some of the most notable museums in Bosnia and Herzegovina include:

National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

National Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo – This museum is the oldest and largest in the country, and features exhibits on archaeology, ethnology, natural history, and art.

Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo – This museum focuses on the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with exhibits on the country’s medieval and Ottoman periods, as well as its more recent history.

Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum

Sarajevo War Tunnel Museum, Sarajevo – This museum is dedicated to the Siege of Sarajevo during the Bosnian War, and features a reconstructed section of the tunnel that was used to smuggle supplies into the city.

Museum of the City of Sarajevo

Museum of the City of Sarajevo, Sarajevo – This museum showcases the history of Sarajevo, with exhibits on its architecture, culture, and people.

Museum of the Republic of Srpska

Museum of the Republic of Srpska, Banja Luka – This museum features exhibits on the history and culture of Republika Srpska, with a focus on the period from the medieval era to the present day.

Herzegovina Museum

Herzegovina Museum, Trebinje – This museum showcases the cultural and historical heritage of the Herzegovina region, with exhibits on art, archaeology, and history.

Museum of Contemporary Art

Museum of Contemporary Art of Republika Srpska, Banja Luka – This museum features exhibits on contemporary art and culture from Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the wider region.

Museum of Sutjeska National Park

Museum of Sutjeska National Park, Tjentište – This museum is dedicated to the Sutjeska National Park, and features exhibits on its natural history and biodiversity, as well as its significance in World War II.

These are just a few of the many museums in Bosnia and Herzegovina and visitors to the country are sure to find many other fascinating and informative institutions to explore.

Galleries

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich art scene, and there are numerous galleries and exhibition spaces throughout the country. Here are some of the most notable ones:

National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina

The National Gallery of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo is the largest and most important art museum in the country, with an extensive collection of Bosnian and Herzegovinian art from the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as works by international artists.

Ars Aevi Museum of Contemporary Art

Ars Aevi Museum of Contemporary Art, Sarajevo focuses on contemporary art from Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as other parts of Europe and the world.

International Portrait Gallery

International Portrait Gallery, Tuzla offers a unique and captivating experience focused on the art of portraiture.

Gallery Roman Petrović

Gallery Roman Petrović, Sarajevo: This gallery showcases contemporary art from Bosnia and Herzegovina and the region, with an emphasis on new and emerging artists.

Gallery 11/07/95

Gallery 11/07/95, Sarajevo: This gallery is dedicated to the memory of the Srebrenica massacre and hosts exhibitions that explore the themes of war, genocide, and human rights.

These are just a few examples of the galleries and exhibition spaces in Bosnia and Herzegovina. There are many other smaller galleries and private collections throughout the country. Find Out More…

Historical Monuments

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich history and cultural heritage, which is reflected in many historical monuments scattered throughout the country. Here are some notable examples:

Stari Most (Old Bridge) – a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Mostar. It was built in the 16th century and is a symbol of the city and the country.

Baščaršija

Baščaršija is the old town center of Sarajevo with a rich history and cultural significance. It is known for its Ottoman-era architecture, traditional shops, and cafes.

Kastel Fortress

Kastel Fortress is a medieval fortress located in Banja Luka. It was built in the 16th century and played an important role in the defense of the city.

Počitelj – a historic village located on the banks of the Neretva River in Herzegovina. It features well-preserved Ottoman-era architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Jajce Fortress

Jajce Fortress is a medieval fortress located in the town of Jajce. It was built in the 14th century and played an important role in the defense of the town.

Vranduk Fortress

Vranduk Fortress is a medieval fortress located near Zenica. It was built in the 14th century and played an important role in the defense of the region.

These are just a few examples of the many historical monuments that can be found in Bosnia and Herzegovina, each with its own unique story and cultural significance.

traditional villages

Religious Sites

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a rich and diverse religious history, with Islam, Orthodox Christianity, and Catholicism being the predominant religions. As a result, there are many religious sites and landmarks throughout the country that are worth visiting. Some of the most notable include:

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque

Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, Sarajevo is one of the most famous and significant Islamic landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it is located in the heart of Sarajevo’s old town. It was built in the 16th century and is known for its intricate architecture and stunning interior.

Tvrdos Monastery

Tvrdos Monastery, Trebinje is a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery and was founded in the 15th century and is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history.

Shrine of Our Lady of Međugorje

The Shrine of Our Lady of Međugorje, Međugorje, is the most important Catholic religious site in the country, attracting millions of pilgrims worldwide due to reported apparitions of the Virgin Mary and serving as a center for Catholic devotion and spirituality.
The Old Jewish Cemetery, Sarajevo is a historically significant site that showcases the cultural and architectural blend of the Jewish community and serves as a reminder of their contributions to the city’s history.

These are just a few examples of the many religious sites and landmarks that can be found throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Whether you are interested in Islamic architecture, Orthodox Christianity, Catholicism, or Judaism there is something for everyone to discover in this diverse and fascinating country.

Festivals

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, which is reflected in its numerous festivals throughout the year. Some of the most popular festivals in Bosnia and Herzegovina include:

These are just a few examples of the many festivals that take place in Bosnia and Herzegovina throughout the year, showcasing the country’s rich cultural diversity and heritage.

Food and Drink

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a rich culinary tradition influenced by various cultures and cuisines, including Turkish, Austrian, and Hungarian and offers a delicious variety of dishes, such as ćevapi and pita, along with Bosnian coffee and locally produced wines and beers.

Ćevapi

Ćevapi is a popular grilled dish made of minced meat, usually beef or a mixture of beef and lamb, shaped into sausage-like portions. The meat is seasoned with various spices, such as paprika, garlic, and onion, and then grilled until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Pita

Pita is a savory pastry made with phyllo dough that is filled with a variety of ingredients such as spinach and cheese (zeljanica), potato (krompiruša), ground beef (burek), or cottage cheese (sirnica).

Cities

The major cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Sarajevo

The capital city, Sarajevo, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its rich history, diverse architecture, and stunning natural surroundings.

Banja Luka

Banja Luka, the second-largest city, is famous for its picturesque riverbanks, charming old quarter, and vibrant nightlife.

Mostar

Mostar captivates visitors with its iconic Old Bridge, Ottoman architecture, and a fascinating blend of Eastern and Western influences.

Smaller towns and villages with unique attractions

Blagaj

Blagaj – a small town near Mostar, famous for its beautiful Dervish monastery and the source of the Buna river.

Jajce

Jajce – a picturesque small town located in central Bosnia, known for its waterfall in the center of the town and the medieval fortress.

Počitelj

Počitelj – a small, fortified historic village on the banks of the Neretva river, known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture and a medieval fortress.

Lukomir

Lukomir – a remote village located in the heart of the Bjelasnica mountain range, known for its traditional Bosnian architecture and beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Višegrad

Višegrad – a small town located on the Drina river, famous for its UNESCO-listed Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge and the Andrićgrad complex.

Stolac

Stolac – a small town with a rich history and well-preserved Ottoman architecture, located near the stunning Radimlja necropolis.

Travnik

Travnik – a charming town located in central Bosnia, famous for its beautiful old town, medieval fortress and traditional Bosnian cuisine.

Kupres

Kupres – a mountain town known for its winter sports and outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding and hiking.

Konjic

Konjic – a town located on the Neretva river, known for its historic old town, traditional crafts and beautiful natural surroundings.

Trebinje

Trebinje – a picturesque town known for its stunning architecture, the Trebišnjica River, and the Arslanagića Bridge.

Bijeljina

Bijeljina – a vibrant town known for its cultural events, including the International Folklore Festival.

Foča

Foča – a charming town located on the banks of the Drina River, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking and rafting.

…Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina, where the past and present intertwine, and every experience is an invitation to discover the extraordinary…


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