Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina, abbreviated BiH or B&H, is a country in Southeastern Europe located on the Balkan Peninsula. The larger region of Bosnia occupies the northern and central parts of the country, and Herzegovina occupies the south and southwest. Sarajevo is the capital and largest city.

In the 15th century the region was ruled by the Ottoman Empire, the region came under the control of Austria-Hungary in 1878. In 1918 it was incorporated into the newly created Kingdom of Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes, where it had no formal status of its own. After World War II it became a constituent republic of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Following the disintegration of that state in 1991, the majority of the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina voted for independence in a 1992 referendum.

Today, the country maintains high literacy, life expectancy and education levels and is one of the most frequently visited countries in the region, projected to have the third highest tourism growth rate in the world between 1995 and 2020. Bosnia and Herzegovina is regionally and internationally renowned for its natural beauty and cultural heritage inherited from six historical civilizations, its cuisine, winter sports, its eclectic and unique music, architecture and its festivals, some of which are the largest and most prominent of their kind in Southeastern Europe.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has many tourism information offices and regional centers. Please follow the regional sectors when looking for information in certain regions. Tourism information offices in BiH generally speak English and have information about hotels, what to see and do, restaurants, and local travel agencies that will make your trip more enjoyable. Enjoy your stay.

Top tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage, as well as stunning natural beauty. Some of the top tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina include:

  1. The Old Bridge of Mostar: The Old Bridge of Mostar is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of the country’s multicultural heritage. The bridge, which was originally built in the 16th century, was destroyed during the Bosnian War and rebuilt in 2004.
  2. Sarajevo: Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and a fascinating destination for history and culture lovers. Visitors can explore historic landmarks such as the Old Town, the Latin Bridge (the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand), and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.
  3. Kravice Waterfalls: The Kravice Waterfalls are a stunning natural wonder located in Herzegovina. The waterfalls, which are over 25 meters high and up to 120 meters wide, are a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.
  4. Blagaj Tekke: Blagaj Tekke is a historic Sufi monastery located near Mostar, dating back to the 16th century. The monastery is built into the cliffs above the Buna River and is a beautiful example of Ottoman architecture.
  5. Una National Park: Una National Park is located in the northwest of Bosnia and Herzegovina and is known for its stunning waterfalls, rivers, and canyons. The park is a popular destination for hiking, kayaking, and rafting.
  6. The central Dinaric Alps are a hikers and walkers paradise. Enchanted by both Mediterranean and Alpine climates, the range of diverse landscapes will stun and amaze you.
  7. Whitewater rafting has become practically a national pastime with three adrenaline pumping rivers: Una in the Northwest, Neretva in Herzegovina and the deepest river canyon in Europe – the unforgettable Tara River near Sutjeska National Park.

These are just a few of the many tourist highlights in Bosnia and Herzegovina. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and diverse cultural heritage, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers visitors a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

More information on our website:

More information:

  • Hercegovina.ba - Site maintained by the Tourist Community of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton offers information and photo galleries about a dozen destinations in this Southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
  • Lonely Planet - Bosnia & Hercegovina - Facts and advice for traveling along with background material on the culture and history of the country.
  • Travel.State.Gov - Bosnia-Herzegovina - Offers travel information including Quick Facts, embassies and consulates, entry and exit requirements, safety and security, local laws, health, transportation and Fact Sheet. From the U.S. Department of State.
  • World Travel Guide - Bosnia and Herzegovina - Tourist and business travel information with facts on climate, visa, health, passport, currency and customs requirements.