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Bosnia and Herzegovina
Here is what you need to know: Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the countries that emerged after the fall of Yugoslavia.
It is a stunning destination to visit, offering a blend of rich history and wild landscapes. The country is home to medieval villages, rivers, lakes, and the dramatic Dinaric Alps, making it a haven for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
The national capital, Sarajevo, features the Baščaršija, a well-preserved old quarter known for its Ottoman-era charm and landmarks such as the 16th-century Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque.
Among its most iconic attractions are the Old Bridge of Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Dervish House in Blagaj, both offering unique insights into the country’s cultural and architectural heritage.
About
Bosnia and Herzegovina (abbreviated as BiH or B&H), sometimes called Bosnia–Herzegovina and often informally referred to as Bosnia, is a country at the crossroads of Southern and Southeastern Europe, located in the Balkans. Although landlocked for the most part, it does have a small access to the Adriatic Sea.
The country spans an area of 51,129 km² and is home to a population of 3,824,782 people. Its capital, Sarajevo, is a city rich in history and culture.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a multi-ethnic nation, with its population comprised of three main ethnic groups: Bosniaks, Serbs, and Croats. This diversity is a key part of its cultural identity and history.
The triangle on the flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina symbolizes the approximate shape of the country’s territory. The stars, representing Europe, are intended to appear infinite in number, continuing seamlessly from top to bottom. The flag’s colors—white, blue, and yellow—are often associated with neutrality and peace, reflecting the country’s aspirations and values.
The Golden Lily (Lilium Bosniacum) is a native flower and the national symbol of Bosnia. Traditionally, it represents gifts and is often used to decorate birthday cakes and wrapping paper. As a heraldic symbol, the Golden Lily dates back to the 14th-century Kingdom of Bosnia, where it was prominently featured. Today, it continues to symbolize both the country of Bosnia and the Bosniak people.
In 1984, Sarajevo hosted the Winter Olympics, marking the first time the Games were held in a communist country. This historic event showcased Sarajevo’s charm and the region’s natural beauty on the global stage.
In 1984, Sarajevo hosted the Winter Olympics, marking the first time the Games were held in a communist country. This historic event showcased Sarajevo’s charm and the region’s natural beauty on the global stage.
What to expect?
Language: The official language of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Bosnian, but Serbian and Croatian are also recognized as official languages. These three languages are very similar and mutually intelligible, making communication easier for speakers of any of them.
Food: One of the most famous dishes in Bosnia and Herzegovina is Ćevapi, which are oblong-shaped kebabs made from lamb and beef, typically served in somun (a type of flatbread). The cuisine shows strong Arabic influences, with popular dishes like burek (savory pastry) and čorba (soup) commonly found.
Transportation: The most convenient way to travel around the country is by bus, which offers extensive coverage and is easy to use. However, renting a car remains the best option for exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina at your own pace and discovering its hidden gems.
Money: The currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the Convertible Marka (BAM). Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are readily available in urban areas. For travelers outside of Europe, services like Azimo or TransferWise can be a cost-effective way to manage currency exchange.
Plugs: The plugs in Bosnia and Herzegovina are type C and F, which are standard across most European countries. The voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz, so most European devices will work without an adapter.
Safety: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a very safe country for travelers, much like the rest of the Balkans. Basic precautions, as in any destination, will ensure a trouble-free experience.
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