Backpacking Bosnia Travel Guide (2025)

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Why Go Backpacking in Bosnia

A backpacking trip in Bosnia is far from your typical European getaway to places like France or Italy. Being a country still in transition and recovering from the Yugoslav wars, things are different here from the shores of the Mediterranean. The infrastructure is still developing, which makes getting around, let’s say, a little more interesting; just brace yourself for the driving.

Don’t let that scare you off, though; people are so friendly and extremely welcoming. Heck, you’ll even have men asking you to come sit with them to chat over their morning coffee in Sarajevo’s old town.

I thought when arriving in Bosnia that there would be barely any other backpackers, but I was soon proven wrong. The main cities like Sarajevo and Mostar have plenty of hostels, and when you start getting out into the countryside to more rural parts, the guesthouses are for little to nothing.

That’s the great thing about Bosnia; it’s just too cheap to resist. Between the affordable bus rides that sometimes take double the number of hours to arrive and the endless public spaces that don’t cost a dime to enter, it’s hard to believe that somewhere this cheap exists in Europe.

As for the nature, holy moly! I couldn’t get over how gorgeous the country was, and the fact that you never see much written about it in guidebooks. Places like the stunning Pliva Lakes and Una National Park are some I’d never heard of before coming, and after seeing them, I was flabbergasted about how nobody ever talks about them.

Don’t be surprised if Bosnia ends up being your favourite Balkan country of them all. This mix of ethnic diversity and hospitality is hard to come by in this part of the world these days, and I think that’s why I fell in love with it so much, and I know you will, too.

Best Travel Itineraries for Backpacking in Bosnia

Wondering how to hit the ground running? These are some of my favourite itineraries that will show you the best of what Bosnia has to offer. You can pack in a lot, even with a week in Bosnia, but I suggest you stick around for longer to explore more of the northern and eastern parts that many tourists refuse to visit.

The first itinerary is the classic route that most follow when they come, with some fantastic day trips squeezed in. As for the second, we’ll get properly off the beaten path and go further into the mountains and chase some waterfalls (a must if you come). That being said, there’s no right or wrong way to visit Bosnia; just dive right in and see where the journey takes you.

1-Week Travel Itinerary for Bosnia: The Mini Adventure

One week in Bosnia, how is that even possible? Hold your horses. This part of the country is perfectly set up for short trips. You’ll be able to cover a lot of ground in seven days without feeling too rushed.

Kick things off by flying into Dubrovnik Airport and taking a 2-hour and 20-minute bus ride over the border to the charming city of Mostar. It’s here where you’ll feel like you’ve been thrown into a time machine and sent back to the Medieval period.

Try to arrive early to get a foot in before the crowds arrive. The layout is quite compact, which can make it feel a bit overwhelming. When you inevitably get fed up with the quaint but busy streets, give some of the museums, like the Herzegovina Museum and Old Bridge Museum, some of your attention.

Before leaving Mostar, allocate one of your days to hitting some of the nearby highlights, like Pocitelj, Kravice Waterfalls, and the Blagaj Monastery.

Once you’ve wrapped up your time in Mostar, venture to the city of Konjic for some rafting. The Neretva River draws thrill-seekers for whitewater rafting along with a variety of watersports. If you’d rather stay out of the water, you can check out other local attractions like Tito’s Bunker and the Old Stone Bridge.

Next, hit the road to Sarajevo to unearth the city’s history and catch some mega views at sunset from the Yellow Fortress. There’s plenty happening in Sarajevo, so it’s worth dedicating a few days to wandering around. Learn more about Sarejevo’s past on a walking tour, and get lost in the Old Town. No visit is complete without stopping by one of the local coffee shops to try some exceptional Bosnian coffee.

From Sarajevo, try to squeeze in a stop at either the highest village in the country, Lumomir, or the incredible cave complex at Bijambare Park.

2-Week Travel Itinerary for Bosnia: The Full Bosnian Experience

You’ll begin this 2-week itinerary the same as the 1-week one I’ve listed, but instead of flying home from Sarajevo, you’ll make your way to Sutjeska National Park. Just under a 2-hour drive from the capital, this is a pure hikers’ paradise, with Mount Maglic being the most sought-after summit.

Afterwards, head to Travnik to chase the stories of the famous novelist Ivo Andric and see the famed Ornamented Mosque with your own eyes. Next on your list should be Jajce, where you can rest up at the Pliva Lakes and marvel at the insane waterfall in the heart of the town.

An unforgettable way to wrap up your trip is by going far north to Bihac to see the fabulous Una National Park and hop on a kayak out to the Japodian Islands.

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Best Places to Visit in Bosnia

The list of places you can visit in Bosnia is pretty much endless, but it will ultimately come down to your interests. It makes sense to squeeze both Mostar and Sarajevo into your itinerary because of how close they are together, and you can start from one and finish in the other.

After that, the rest of the country is yours to take on – the towering peaks of the national parks or the waterfalls of the north – what’s it going to be?

I might be only scratching the surface with this collection of Bosnia’s must-see locations, but it will give you a taste of what lies ahead.

Backpacking in Mostar

Mostar is the one that gets all the attention in Bosnia, even more than Sarajevo. It’s understandable when you see just how alluring the ice-blue Nereteva River is as she flows quietly under the gigantic Stari Most. Although many go on a day trip to Mostar, I think it deserves more time, especially if you want to visit the likes of Pocitelj, Kravice Waterfalls, and the Blagaj Monastery.

Much of Mostar’s attractions are set within the Old Town, making it easily walkable, and there are plenty of great places to stay nearby. Even if you don’t plan to, it won’t be long before you see the divers jumping from the Stari Most.

It’s pretty cool to stand by and watch them do their thing, but with the heavy foot flow, finding a space without getting pushed out of the way can be tricky. Another unmissable site is the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque. Sure, the interior is nice, but the viewpoint from the minaret makes the $8.37 all worth it.

Mostar was the site of some intense fighting during the Yugoslav wars, and evidence of what went down still lingers today. Some of the buildings that were heavily damaged survived and can still be seen today. Among them is the sniper tower that’s filled with bullet holes. While entry is prohibited, it can be seen from the streets and serves as a memory of the tragic past events that happened here.

Looking further afield, you won’t want to miss the hillside village of Pocitelj. It’s an adorable little place with medieval roots that sits on the banks of the Neretva River and deserves a few hours of your time.

Backpacking in Sarajevo

Bosnia’s vibrant centre and a world away from Mostar, you either fall into one of two camps: you love it or hate it. I was mad about the place; I’ve been a few times now, and it keeps dragging me back for more. There was something about the Ottoman-influenced avenues and quirky coffee culture that I took a liking to. Plus, there’s always a new area to stay in and explore.

Before jumping into Sarajevo’s heavy history, settle yourself in and take it slow at Bascarsija. This is the old bazaar area; even though it has a touristy element to it, there’s a super chill vibe, and it makes for a great spot for people-watching.

Keep an eye out for the birds at the wooden fountain of Sebilj; they have a habit of dropping a load unexpectedly if you know what I mean. Since you’re in the vicinity, swing around to the oldest street in the city, Kazandžiluk; it makes for a great photo.

If you’re the kind of person who likes to find out the backstory of a city when you arrive, joining a war tour of Sarajevo should be at the top of your list. It’s an experience that will allow you to better understand the past events that have shaped the capital. From learning about the assassination of Franz Ferdinand to hearing about the Siege of Sarajevo, History buffs will geek out over this. For a four-hour tour, you should only pay around $32.

As someone who is a foodie, I will let you in on a little secret: Sarajevo’s culinary scene is criminally underrated. Hit up Buregdzinica Sac for the tastiest burek you’ll ever try; you’ll be scratching your head, wondering how they even make money with portions this big for only $2.79. Save Cevabdzinica Zmaj Hrasno for dinner and just ask for the cevapi; you’ll thank me later.

Backpacking in Travnik

Traces of the old Ottoman era still linger in Travnik. It’s a small place, but there’s a nice slew of activities here to keep you entertained and give you a much-needed breather after the hustle and bustle of Sarajevo.

The Ornamented Mosque is an absolute cracker. Even though it was constructed back in 1815, it’s been carefully maintained, allowing it to retain much of its charm. The paintings really are impressive, and even if you come in the evenings, they keep the lights on, so you’ll still be able to see everything.

No doubt, you’ll have already heard of Ivo Andric, but if you haven’t, the locals sure will let you know who he is. They’re super proud of the guy; he was a novelist who won a Nobel Peace Prize for his literature. A gallery was set up to honour him in his old home in Travnik, which is well worth checking out if you have time.

Backpacking in Jajce

The former capital of the independent Kingdom of Bosnia, Jajce, is a small town where you can relax and get out into the outdoors. Thanks to the River Pliva, the area is home to some amazing waterfalls, especially the famous Pliva Waterfall right in the town centre. It’s not every day you see a waterfall in the middle of a town, and that’s part of what makes it so special. Oh, and it’s a solid 22 meters high, so it’s definitely not a small one.

Just outside Jajce, there’s loads more to do. I’d definitely recommend checking out the Great and Small Pliva Lakes, sitting down in the Pliva River valley. When you first see the Great Lake, you’ll be blown away; it sits at a surprising 424 meters above sea level.

Another highlight you definitely don’t want to miss is the Pliva Watermills, which are a picturesque cluster of 20 traditional watermills. They’re seriously gorgeous, and their location on a travertine barrier just adds to the charm. Plus, the fact that they’re made from oak wood gives them this fairytale vibe.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Bosnia

Bosnia’s still pretty under the radar compared to the rest of Europe. Sure, Mostar and Sarajevo get their fair share of tourists, but once you step outside those spots, you can get really off the beaten path.

Banja Luka doesn’t get nearly as much attention as some of the other places I’ve mentioned, but it’s worth a visit. It’s actually the capital of the Republic of Srpska, which is one of the two entities that make up Bosnia, and honestly, it feels like you’ve stepped into a totally different world. From the Cyrillic writing to the different flags flying around, it’s a chance to see a whole other side of life in Bosnia.

One more spot I’ve gotta put out there that I think you’ll love is Trebinje. It’s down in the far south of Bosnia and Herzegovina and part of the Republic of Srpska. The real magic here is in the mountains; they’re seriously underrated. Make sure to add Badnjine to your list; it’s a 10 km loop with absolutely stunning vistas, and there are never many people hiking it either.

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8 Top Things to Do in Bosnia

Bosnia has so much to offer that sometimes picking the best bits for you gets overwhelming AF. Luckily for you, I’ve scoured through the best so you can prioritise your time on only the crème de la crème that this country has to offer.

Here are some of the top things to do whilst backpacking Bosnia on a budget.

1. Join a Rafting Tour in Bihac

Bihac is famed for its awesome rafting excursions on the Una River, and now’s your chance to experience one yourself. Throw on your helmet and lifejacket and paddle your way down insanely powerful rapids and tackle thundering waves. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but an adventurer like yourself will be well able! If you’re a solo traveller in Bosnia, it’s a great way to meet new people too.

2. Witness the Kravica Waterfalls

A group of twenty waterfalls standing at 25 meters high, the Kravica Waterfalls are as pretty as it gets. Whether you want to swim, camp, or do some rafting, it’s all available, but just plan your trip between May and October as it closes for winter.

Most day trips start from Mostar and allow you to explore the region’s highlights with an expert guide. It’s the perfect way to tick off the heavy hitters if you’re short on time.

3. Hold Your Breath as the Divers Jump From the Stari Most in Mostar

Mostar may be a feast for the eyes, but nothing prepares you for the thrill of seeing the divers jump off the Stari Most. Some that take the daring leap of faith are local divers with years of experience, but tourists can have a go, too.

It costs $32.88 with training, and if you survive, you’ll be welcomed into the Mostar Diving Club, so you can return whenever you want and do it again for free; pretty nice perk, eh?

4. Check Out the Winter Olympics Bobsleigh in Sarajevo

Did you know that Sarajevo held the Winter Olympics in 1984? There are plenty of remains of the historic event, and one of them is the abandoned bobsleigh track on Mount Trebevic. If you’re into Urbex, this one’s a must. Walk the old track and check out all the crafty graffiti. Plus, don’t forget to take the cable car from Sarajevo for some killer vistas. Personally, I walked up with a group from my hostel in Sarajevo.

Most day tours exploring Sarajevo cover the Olympic Bobsleigh and tons of other important history about the area, so make sure you don’t miss out!

5. Spend Some Time at Bosnia’s Only Coastal Settlement, Neum

Many people assume that Bosnia is landlocked, but that’s not true. Head out to Neum for the day and explore this coastal settlement, which takes up 9km slice of the Adriatic shoreline. It’s the perfect place to head if you’re travelling with the family too.

6. Embark On a Trip to Bosnia’s Highest Village, Lukomir

Sitting way up at 1,495 meters, Lukomir is the highest village in all of Bosnia, and it feels like a step back in time. Only 17 families live here in these tiny stone houses with red tin roofs. The village has been around since the 14th century, but it’s only accessible for about half the year because of the harsh winter.

Embark on a hike from Sarajevo for the full experience. You’ll spot local shepherds doing their thing when you’re there, and lovely village ladies selling cute handmade souvenirs.

7. Find Peace in Una National Park

I’ve already brought up Una National Park, but it deserves a mention here, too. One of Bosnia’s three national parks, Una has it all: cool waterfalls like Strbacki Buk, ancient sites such as Ostrovica Castle, and gorgeous islands like the Japod Islands.

8. Take a day trip to Pocitelj

A short drive from Mostar, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t visit the lovely town of Pocitelj. Roam around the Old Town, and don’t leave without climbing up to the fort to see Pocitelj in all her glory from above.

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Backpacker Accommodation in Bosnia

When it comes to hostels, Bosnia definitely ranks as one of the best in the Balkans. I found it easy to meet people in the hostels here, way easier than in some other places in the region. Within a few days of being in Sarajevo, I’d already linked up with a group, and we were renting a car and road-tripping all over the country.

Since Bosnia isn’t as touristy as some other spots, you’ll meet real backpackers here. You’ll end up spending long nights sharing travel stories and downing one too many shots of rakia.

Dorms are super affordable; expect to pay only about $10 a night. And if you’re over the snoring and want a little peace and quiet, private rooms start at around $30. Guesthouses and apartments are cheap, too; don’t be surprised if you find something for as low as $20 a night.

The Best Places to Stay in Bosnia

 Bosnia Backpacking Costs

I couldn’t believe how cheap Bosnia was. Maybe it was because I was so used to Europe being so freakishly expensive, but Bosnia is a budget backpacker’s dream. I got by on roughly between $20 and $25 a day, and some of those days, I even had one too many beers.

Pints were for nothing, like in some spots, we were only getting charged $1.60. Damn, if that were next door in Croatia, you wouldn’t even find water that affordable. With food, you’re eating well for around $4.50. When I say good, I mean the type of good that makes you feel as if your belt is going to burst.

Using public transport in Bosnia won’t cost you much at all. In recent years, the system has improved a lot, with plenty of coaches connecting the main cities for around $8 a seat. There’s also a cracking train that links Sarajevo and Mostar that should only set you back about $6.64 to ride on.

A Daily Budget in Bosnia

Here is what you can expect to spend on a daily basis whilst backpacking Bosnia.

Money in Bosnia

Here in Bosnia, they use the Bosnian Mark as currency. Don’t ask me about Mark; I don’t know him either. Find out how much your money is worth today by using the up-to-date converter below.

I can guarantee you won’t find any Bosnian Mark in an exchange office in your home country. Outside of Bosnia, it’s basically nonexistent, so take your dollars with you and exchange them when you arrive. The rate is pegged to the Euro, so for every Euro, you get two marks; it’s basic maths, kid.

Cash is king in Bosnia. Yeah, you might be able to use your debit or credit card in certain places around Sarajevo, Banja Luka, and Mostar, but outside of them, you won’t get too far. I had a rule in Bosnia when I was there: every time I left a big urban centre, I made sure I had double the amount of cash on me, just to be safe. There are plenty of ATMs in the built-up places, but use them while you can, or you’ll be sorry.

Tipping in Bosnia? It’s up to you. Nobody expects a tip, but any I left behind, people were grateful as hell.

Bosnia on a Budget

Bosnia might be cheaper than the average country in Europe, but if you really want to keep costs down to a minimum, you’ll need to rough it a little. Nothing you’re not used to, I’m sure. These are my exclusive travel tips for backpacking Bosnia on a budget.

• Eat local: Not only is Bosnian food mouthwateringly amazing, but it’s also as cheap as chips. My daily diet for the three weeks I was there consisted of burek and Cevapi, and I rarely spent over $7 to $8 on grub. You can do it too!
• Hitchhike: Hitchhiking is a way of life in the Balkans, so you should give it a try if you’ve got the guts. Screw the signs, that’s thinking way too much into it. Just stick out your thumb, hope for the best, and you’ll eventually get where you want to go.
• Couchsurf: What better way to get the full Bosnian experience than to stay with locals? It’s fun, free, and a totally different experience from staying overnight at a hostel (in a good way).
• Join the free walking tours: Getting brought around a city by a local for free? I’ll take that. Slap into Google ‘free walking tours in X’ and you can join other backpackers for an informative stroll around somewhere like Sarajevo. You’ll get a free introduction to the city, plus the opportunity to meet new friends.
• Bring US Dollars with you: As I said before, nothing beats hard cash in Bosnia. Trust me, changing your money when you get here will be much cheaper than withdrawing from the ATMs. Even if you find an ATM without any withdrawal fees, your bank back home will sting you with hefty charges anyway. However, many exchange offices already have the charges mixed into the rate, and they’re often lower than ATM fees.

Trade paid attractions for the outdoors: We all have a list of things when travelling. But if we’re being completely honest with ourselves, half of them we don’t even want to see; we just do it to fill the time. In Bosnia, there’s no need to do that; screw the history museums with the hefty entry fees; this country has some of the most gorgeous nature in the region, so take advantage of it while you can.

Best Time to Travel to Bosnia

You’ve got to be strategic with the dates you travel to Bosnia. The country has a few seasons, and the weather will dictate your plans, whether you like it or not.

A lot of folks come to Bosnia between May and September because it’s summer, but the heat can be pretty brutal. Thunderstorms are pretty frequent, too, and they usually come with heavy rainfall, but they almost always come and go within an hour. The downside of this is that it can totally mess with your plans for going outdoors for some hiking. But if you’re just hanging out in the city, you’re good.

Bosnian winters are on the complete opposite end of the scale. From December to February, it’s cold, like snow all over the place. They’ve even got ski resorts in some of the mountainous areas. A cheap whack at the slopes sure does sound tempting, doesn’t it?

I prefer the shoulder seasons in Bosnia; at least I can rest easy knowing I won’t be sweating profusely or freezing my but off when I go outside. If you’re like me, plan your trip between the end of March and April or September and October.

What to Pack for Bosnia

Pack smart and arrive organised in Bosnia with these essentials.

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Somewhere to hide your cash

Somewhere to hide your cash

Travel Security Belt

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For those unexpected messes

For those unexpected messes

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

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When the power goes out

When the power goes out

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

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A way to make friends!

A way to make friends!

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

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Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Keep your laundry organized and stink free

Hanging Laundry Bag

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Staying Safe in Bosnia

For the most part, I felt perfectly safe in Bosnia. Obviously, it’s important to have your wits about you when you’re out and about, especially at night. Petty crime does happen from time to time, but it’s the same as in every other country.

I think your two biggest safety risks in Bosnia are the unexploded landmines and the roads. The war might be over, but estimates suggest there are still roughly 79,000 unexploded landmines scattered around the country. You’re most likely to encounter them in rural areas, but there’s no way to fully detect them. Keep your eyes peeled for red signs labelled ‘Pazi – Mine,’ they’ve been put there to alert you that you’ve entered a high-risk area.

As for the roads, I’ll be straight up and tell you that some, not all, drivers are maniacs. Be careful when walking on the roads; all it takes is for some showman to fly around the corner and knock you down.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Bosnia

Like anywhere on your backpacking adventure, whatever you’re after, you’ll find it; Bosnia is no different from anywhere else.

Even if your travel budget is tight, you can get pretty boozed up in Bosnia for a relatively low price. Nights out usually start with local beers and progress to some flaming Rakia, a Balkan fruit brandy that even gives me the shivers thinking about it. Shots of it only cost $1.66, but that stuff is dangerous; go easy on it. For those fond of a ciggie or two, a box costs around $3.33.

On the subject of sex, hooking up here is definitely possible. If you like to keep your flings within the walls of a hostel, you’ll meet lots of backpackers who are sure to be up for a good time. Fancy some local action? Although Bosnians tend to get married quite young, there’s nothing to suggest some international magic won’t work.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Bosnia

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How to Get Into Bosnia

You only have two real options for getting into Bosnia: flying or by bus. A handful of airports have international connections, like Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka, and Tuzla. The major issue is that many of the routes are only seasonal or just not that frequent. Your best bet is to fly into Sarajevo Airport; at least there are more flights there with the likes of Lufthansa, Wizz Air, Eurowings, Turkish Airlines, and Pegasus.

In my experience, I think it’s much less hassle to fly into Dubrovnik International Airport and suck it up and do the 2-hour and 20-minute bus ride to Mostar. However, if the flights work out for you to fly into Sarajevo, jump on the opportunity.

Entry Requirements for Bosnia

Oh, the fun part, sorting out visas and entry. Luckily, plenty of nationalities can enter Bosnia freely for up to 90 days without needing to obtain a visa. But as with every new country ventured, don’t take my word for it…Make sure you search for visa requirements on your government site so you’re sure, instead of assuming and having an awkward encounter at immigration!

Want to stay longer than 90 days? You’re a proper explorer, aren’t you? Either be prepared and enter the country on a long-term visa, or do a border run into any of the neighbouring countries.

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How to Get Around Bosnia

Public transport in Bosnia is improving by the day, but it’s not quite where it needs to be yet. Having said that, getting around for an experienced backpacker like yourself shouldn’t be an issue. There’s a solid coach network in place, the train line between Mostar and Sarajevo is pretty damn impressive, and locals are more than happy to pick up hitchhikers.

Travelling by Public Transport in Bosnia

Prepare to spend most of your travel days in Bosnia on buses. It’s hard to complain about them; they’re an upgrade from a shared taxi (we all know how grim they can be), they’re friendly on the wallet, and you arrive alive; what more could you ask for?

Just make sure you’re not in a rush; drivers stop a lot, and sometimes they’ll even throw you out on the side of the road and let another bus pick you up; it’s all part of the fun, I suppose.

Save the train to move between Mostar and Sarajevo. As you can already tell from the previous sections, I’m a big fan of this. The carriage is surprisingly modern, but the real beauty is the journey itself: enchanting mountain settlements perched atop rugged peaks as the rivers meander through the valleys.

Hitchhiking in Bosnia

When in doubt, stick the thumb out. Hitchhiking is possible in Bosnia, but give yourself plenty of time. Sometimes, the wait times can be pretty long, and the drivers will only take you so far. Take plenty of water; standing on the side of the road for hours in the sun will take it out of you.

I personally didn’t have a chance to hitchhike in Bosnia, but many people I met in hostels told me they did and said it was super easy. Don’t be afraid to give it a shot.

Onwards Travel from Bosnia

Bosnia is one of many countries on the classic Balkan circuit. Montenegro, Croatia, and Serbia are only next door, and a little further afield, you’ve got places like Albania and Slovenia! You can easily travel to one (or all) of these countries by bus, as there’s an efficient network in place; FlixBus will be your best friend.

The Balkans are just the start. Go further east by flying directly to Istanbul with Pegasus or Wizz Air. And that’s not all; there are also direct flights to Dubai with FlyDubai, which basically opens you up to the rest of the world.

Bosnian Culture

Bosnia is an incredibly diverse place. In a country with just over 3.1 million people, there are three main ethnic groups: the Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats. The Bosniaks make up just over half the population (50.1%), while the Serb population is around 30.8%, the Croats 15.4%, and the remaining population is people from different backgrounds. These groups follow their own distinct religions: the Bosniaks are Muslims, the Serbs are Orthodox Christians, and the Croats are Roman Catholics.

From the outside, Bosnian people may come across as quite reserved, but when you spend some time around them, they’ll break out of their shells. I found the Bosnians I met on my travels to be very curious and absolutely hilarious. They know how to have a good laugh, that’s for sure.

Useful Travel Phrases for Bosnia

Don’t be fooled into thinking that everyone will speak English in Bosnia. Yeah, some can, particularly the younger generation, but by and large, it’s not widely spoken among the local population.

It’s better to come prepared with a few Bosnian phrases in your back pocket. I’m not saying you have to become a pro; that would be way too difficult anyway because Bosnians will tell you it ain’t an easy language to get your head around.

Learning these few simple phrases will go a long way for you:

What to Eat in Bosnia

I have to say, out of all the places I’ve been to on my travels, Bosnian cuisine surprised me the most. Most dishes are made with basic ingredients, but whatever they have going on with the flavours, I was all in.

Meat and bread, meat and bread, is the mantra here. Don’t expect to get your five a day in; your diet is heavy on meat. However, because a good chunk of the population is Muslim, there’s less pork and more beef, the ultimate recipe for a heart attack.

Must-Try Dishes in Bosnia

• Cevapi – Little pieces of minced meat loaded with flavours and spices and served with traditional Bosnian bread. Heavenly is an understatement.
• Burek – A Balkan classic, but extra yummy in Bosnia. Burek is a scrumptious pastry with a filling of either cheese, meat, or potato.
• Begova Corba – For the stew lovers, it’s a thick chicken-based stew with some veggies like celery and carrots. A good one to catch up on your fibre intake.
• Rostilj – Sticking with the meaty trend, rostilj is a protein-rich feast with cevapi, steak, sausage, and sometimes chicken, depending on how hardcore you want to go.

A Brief History of Bosnia

To say Bosnia has been through a lot over the years would be an understatement.

For over four centuries, Bosnia was under the rule of the Ottoman Empire, and it was the Ottomans who brought Islam to the region, which remains the dominant religion today. The marks of their rule can still be felt everywhere, especially through the Ottoman-style architecture found in places like Sarajevo.

As the Ottoman Empire started to decline, Bosnia came under the control of the Austro-Hungarian Empire in 1878. But another key moment came when Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in Sarajevo, sparking World War I. The murder was motivated by the desire to remove Austria-Hungary’s control over South Slavic territories, with hopes that Bosnia would eventually join a new state, Yugoslavia.

After World War I, as the Austro-Hungarian Empire crumbled, Bosnia became part of the newly formed Kingdom of Yugoslavia in 1918. Bosnia stayed in this kingdom until it collapsed in 1941, after which Bosnia was briefly annexed by Croatia before becoming part of Tito’s Democratic Federal Yugoslavia.

Fast forward to the fall of communism across Europe in 1989 and the rise in ethnic tensions within Yugoslavia. This eventually led to the breakup of the country in 1992, and sadly, this wasn’t the end of Bosnia’s troubles. The Bosnian War started in April of 1992, with Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats fighting against each other, resulting in thousands of lives lost. The war ended in 1995 with the historic Dayton Agreement, bringing some much-needed peace to the region.

FAQs About Backpacking in Bosnia

You’ve got questions about backpacking in Bosnia and I’ve got answers! Before you head off, ask your questions and do your research to have a more enjoyable trip once you arrive.

Is Bosnia expensive?

Not at all. Your Dollars will go far here. It’s not like Western Europe, where you go bankrupt after two days. You can get by easily on $30 or less a day; if you have more than that available, you’ll live like royalty.

What is the highlight of backpacking in Bosnia?

For me, it’s the Bosnian hospitality. These people sure know how to make you feel like a guest, and they’re incredibly proud of it. After four cups of coffee in an hour, three slices of burek, and a shot of rakia to follow, you’ll realise what I mean.

But seriously, Bosnians are so kind-hearted, so please try to set aside some time to connect with the people, hear their stories, and learn more about their culture. You won’t regret it.

Final Advice Before Visiting Bosnia

Open your heart up to Bosnia. It’s a place that many skip, but that would be the worst decision of your life.

There’s nothing Bosnia doesn’t do right: world-class nature, scrumptious food, wonderful people, and blinding alcohol that tastes good until you wake up the following day over the toilet bowl.

When you go to Bosnia, dive in head first. Say yes to everything. Hit up faraway cities, explore hidden mountain towns, eat dishes you can’t pronounce, and do that rafting trip, even though it will make you cry like a baby.

Respect Bosnia for what it is. Come and enjoy yourself, but take some time to learn about the history. Don’t be that person who has seen three different groups pass through one hostel as you’ve spent your trip totally out of your mind. Get out and see the place and give back to the local community.

That’s it for me! Bosnia, you’ll always have a special place in my heart, and I hope it’s the same for everyone reading this.

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