One of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe, no trip to the Balkan is incomplete without a visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina. A country rich in history, culture and storytelling, Bosnia and Herzegovina have something for everyone. It’s so nostalgic, beautiful and heart breaking at the same time because you can experience yourself the remnants of war throughout the journey.
If you’re planning your trip to Bosnia and aren’t sure where to start, this guide will help you uncover the best parts of the country!
Sarajevo
Bosnia’s capital and largest city, Sarajevo was founded by the Ottoman Empire and it is home to multi-religious nation often called as “Jerusalem of Europe”. Be transported to the 15th century as you step into the old town and Baščaršija. At one point in time, it was the largest trading hub in the Balkans! Immerse yourself in the country’s culture as you get to the Sebilj Fountain, a wooden water fountain. Best of all, it is one of the iconic landmarks of Sarajevo and you can actually drink the water yourself!
Did you know that there are more than 100 mosques in Sarajevo in the 16th century? That gives you plenty of options to perform your prayers. If you’re unsure of how to choose, you can pray at the famous Gazi Husrev-Beg’s Mosque – Bosnia’s largest historical mosque and the Balkans’ most important Ottoman structure.
The other major landmarks in Sarajevo have got to be the historic Latin Bridge where it was the beginning of the World War I and Sarajevo Meeting of Culture Line where Ottoman architecture meets Austro-Hungarian architecture.
Stari Most, Mostar
Your visit to Bosnia would not be complete without visiting one of the Bosnia’s most popular attractions, Mostar! Mostar is famous for its UNESCO Old Stone Bridge also known as Stari Most. This fairytale bridge was built in the 16th century by the Ottomans over the Neretva River.
Beyond iconic, Mostar is so famous that they actually named the city after the bridge keepers, mostari. Since back to the medieval times, this bridge links the two parts of the old town together and it is considered an exemplary piece of Islamic architecture in the Balkans! For the best views of the Mostar bridge, you can go to Lucki Most that is another bridge just a few hundred meters south of Stari Most or go to Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and climb up the minaret for a small fee – located a few hundred meters north of Stari Most.
Kravice Waterfalls
After Stari Most, make your way to Kravice Waterfalls, one of the largest waterfalls in Herzegonia and located just 10 minutes away from Croatia border. With Balkan region is famous for its clearest water, the gorgeous crystal clear water scene in Kravice Waterfalls is no surprise. Kravice Waterfalls is a very well-known place for swimming and picnic. It’s a perfect destination in Bosnia during the summer. No matter how hot the weather though, the water is pretty icy all year round.
Konjic
Along the way from Sarajevo to Mostar, stop by to see an iconic sight of Old Stone Bridge in Konjic. It is the best preserved Ottoman bridge in all of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Built in the 16th century by Ottomans, this historic bridge was destroyed by the Germans in 1945 and then reconstructed in 2009. Pull over to take some photos of the bridge, stop by for a coffee and to perform your prayer at the nearest mosque.
You can take your time to explore the narrow streets but remember to keep your voice down because many of these homes along the street are still in habited by local residents.
Vrelo Bosne
Vrelo Bosne is one of Bosnia’s best-known attractions, and the naturally crystal clear water here provide a spectacular backdrop to relax with friends and family. Located only 30 min away from Sarajevo, it’s frequently visited by the locals to cool off on a hot summer day. What is so fascinating about this park is that you can ride the horse carriages, an experience you will remember all your life. It’s a place so serene where you can see beautiful water was flowing everywhere you look.
