Bosnia and Herzegovina : Safety by City
Bosnia and Herzegovina may sound like two separate places, but it’s one country with a complex name—and an even more complex past.
The dual name reflects its two main regions, not a split nation.
That structure comes from the peace agreement that ended the Bosnian War in the 1990s, shaping the modern state into a patchwork of ethnic and political divisions that still influence everyday life.
The scars of the war are still visible, but so is the resilience.
Sarajevo, once under siege for nearly four years, now buzzes with cafés, mosques, churches, and synagogues all in the same square.
It’s one of the few cities in Europe where East literally meets West.
Ottoman architecture collides with Austro-Hungarian facades, often within the same block.
Visitors are drawn to Bosnia and Herzegovina for more than just its history.
In 2024, more than two million people came for the dramatic landscapes, budget-friendly ski resorts, and UNESCO sites like the Stari Most bridge in Mostar.
The country offers rugged mountains, whitewater rafting rivers, and medieval hill towns that still feel off the beaten path.
It’s a great choice for travelers who want a mix of culture, nature, and authenticity without the crowds you’ll find elsewhere in Europe.
Warnings & Dangers in Bosnia and Herzegovina
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for travelers, with most visits going smoothly. The biggest issues are tied to infrastructure and petty crime, not violence. It’s smart to stay aware of your surroundings, but the overall risk is low for anyone using common sense and staying in populated areas.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Public transportation is affordable, but not always reliable. Buses are more common than trains, which can be slow and outdated. Taxis are cheap, but some drivers don’t use meters or overcharge tourists, especially at airports. It’s a medium risk if you’re not paying attention to fares or confirming routes ahead of time.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
You won’t find the kind of pickpocket scene here that you’d expect in cities like Rome or Paris, but it still happens in crowded markets or buses. Keep an eye on your stuff in tourist-heavy spots like Mostar and Sarajevo’s old town. Treat it as a medium risk and do your best to blend in with the locals. The U.S. travel advisory also says to avoid using a backpack as that will attract thieves.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Bosnia doesn’t have frequent disasters, but flash floods and landslides can hit rural and mountain regions after heavy rain. Earthquakes are possible but rare. If you’re doing outdoor adventures, just check local conditions before heading out. For most travelers sticking to cities, the risk is low.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Muggings are uncommon, especially in daylight or in popular tourist areas. That said, avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods late at night, like you would anywhere. The risk level stays low if you use good judgment.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
There’s a baseline terrorism warning here, mostly due to concerns about radicalized individuals, not any specific ongoing threat. Bosnia hasn’t had a major attack in recent years. Like much of Europe, risk is present, but it’s not something that should deter a visit.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
Scams tend to be minor; think taxi price inflation or the occasional misleading tour pitch. You won’t run into aggressive cons like in bigger tourist cities. Still, read reviews, double-check prices, and trust your gut. The risk is low for travelers who stay a little skeptical in unfamiliar situations.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Solo female travelers report feeling generally safe here, especially in bigger cities. Street harassment is rare, but not unheard of. Dressing modestly in more conservative or rural areas helps you blend in. Overall, it’s a low-to-medium risk depending on location and time of day, but no major red flags.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
The tap water in Bosnia is generally safe to drink, especially in cities like Sarajevo. In rural areas or old buildings, the plumbing might be outdated, so bottled water is a safer bet. The risk is low overall, but if your stomach is sensitive, play it safe outside major towns.
Safest Places to Visit in Bosnia and Herzegovina
The official tourism site for Bosnia and Herzegovina is much shorter in length.
Look it up at tourismbig.com.
The Instagram handle is @bosniaandherzegovina.
Most travelers stick to a few well-known areas, and for good reason—they’re not just beautiful, they’re also low risk.
Sarajevo is the heart of it all.
You can walk through centuries of history in the old town, visit the Latin Bridge, or ride the cable car up to Mount Trebević for city views and hiking trails.
Mostar is another major stop, with its iconic stone bridge, cobbled streets, and riverside cafés.
It gets busy in the summer, but the Old Town is easy to navigate and welcoming to tourists.
You could also head to Blagaj, just outside Mostar, where a 16th-century Dervish monastery clings to a cliff beside a turquoise spring.
It’s an easy half-day trip and one of the most photogenic spots in the country.
If you’re more into nature, the Una National Park near Bihać is known for waterfalls and rafting, while Sutjeska National Park offers hiking and serious mountain scenery.
On the coast, Neum is Bosnia’s tiny stretch of Adriatic shoreline.
It’s quieter and more affordable than nearby Croatian beach towns, and a good detour if you’re driving through the region.
For a quieter city experience, Jajce is a standout.
It’s got a waterfall right in the middle of town and medieval ruins to wander through, all with a lot fewer tourists than the big-name destinations.
Trebinje, near the border with Croatia and Montenegro, has a laid-back Mediterranean feel, with stone streets, a strong café culture, and vineyards just outside of town.
Places to Avoid in Bosnia and Herzegovina
While Bosnia and Herzegovina is safe for travelers, there are a few things to watch out for that you won’t encounter in more polished European destinations.
The biggest one?
Landmines.
Yes, they’re still a risk—especially if you’re hiking, road-tripping in rural areas, or exploring abandoned places.
Minefields and unexploded ordnance have caused injuries and deaths even in recent years.
Stick to paved roads, marked trails, and official viewpoints.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina Mine Action Center (bhmac.org) posts updated maps, so it’s worth checking if you’re going off the usual tourist route.
Another heads-up: stray dogs.
I know how much I miss my dogs when I travel, so I always want to give scruffy street pups some love, but here, it’s not safe.
Strays can be unpredictable, and there have been attacks in both cities and rural towns.
You don’t want to be dealing with the risk of rabies on vacation.
One last thing—soccer games.
Local passion runs deep, and sometimes it spills over.
Fights between rival fans, property damage, and street chaos are common after matches.
If you’re in town when a big game is on, keep your distance from the crowds, especially near stadiums or pubs.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina
- The police are generally professional and responsive, though English isn’t guaranteed. You can call 122 for emergencies, but keep in mind that rural areas might not have fast response times. If you’re in a city and need help, head to the nearest police station.
- Bosnia doesn’t have a centralized emergency alert system like some countries, but local news and government Facebook pages are often updated with road closures, weather warnings, or protests. If you’re in the mountains or planning to hike, check conditions in advance. Cell service can drop off fast in remote areas.
- Standard travel vaccines (like Hep A and tetanus) are recommended, but also know that tuberculosis is an increasing concern here. It’s not a huge risk for short-term visitors, but something to note if you’ll be in healthcare settings or rural areas.
- You can legally drive with a U.S. or EU license for up to six months, but the roads here are another story. Mountain passes are narrow, signage can be spotty, and locals drive aggressively. Avoid night driving unless you’re really confident behind the wheel. Renting a car? Double-check that your insurance includes roadside support.
- Bosnia is not especially LGBTQ+ friendly, especially outside Sarajevo. If you’re traveling as a couple, it’s safer to keep things low-key. Know where the embassies are and consider reaching out to local LGBTQ organizations for updated advice.
- Winter months, especially in Sarajevo, can bring thick smog thanks to coal heating and stagnant air. It’s worse in valleys, where pollution settles. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, bring a mask and monitor AQI using apps like IQAir or local government sites. Avoid outdoor exercise when levels spike.
- No matter how curious you are, do not enter abandoned buildings. Aside from the risk of collapse or wild animals, many were never cleared of landmines or explosives after the war. Some residents even booby-trapped their homes when they fled. You have too many risks that could be inside to let your curious nature get the best of you.
- If you ask locals about the Bosnian War, be respectful and neutral. It’s a profoundly personal and still-sensitive topic. Don’t offer opinions on who was right or wrong. What seems like a casual conversation can quickly become heated, and you don’t want to accidentally offend someone or reopen wounds. When in doubt, don’t bring it up.
- The official language is Bosnian, but Croatian and Serbian are also widely spoken. Younger people and those in the tourism industry often speak decent English, but don’t expect fluency everywhere. A translation app will help, especially in small towns.
- Watching locals leap from the Stari Most is thrilling, but don’t assume it’s a casual jump spot. The river is icy cold, and the height (75 feet) can be dangerous without training. There’s an official diving club that offers brief coaching for a fee. Go through them or skip the jump entirely.
So... How Safe Is Bosnia and Herzegovina Really?
Most countries give Bosnia and Herzegovina a Level 2 travel rating, meaning “exercise increased caution,” and it mostly comes down to leftover landmines, not day-to-day crime.
Here’s the deal: landmines and unexploded ordnance from the 1990s war are still scattered across the country, especially in rural areas, forests, hillsides, and near old frontlines.
They’re not in the middle of Sarajevo or Mostar, tourist areas are cleared and well-trafficked, but go off-trail or explore an abandoned structure in the countryside, and you could be in trouble.
The government and international partners have cleared a lot, but it’s a slow, ongoing process.
That’s why countries err on the side of caution.
It’s not about scaring tourists; it’s about reminding people not to treat the countryside like a playground.
Stick to marked paths, paved roads, and official sites, and you’ll be fine.
But wander into the wrong field, and you’re dealing with real, avoidable danger.
The other reason Bosnia and Herzegovina gets a Level 2 travel rating is crime, especially in Sarajevo.
Property crimes like pickpocketing, break-ins, and theft are common, and while violent incidents tied to organized crime rarely involve tourists, they do happen (usually after dark).
The key is not to stand out.
Don’t wear expensive gear, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and skip flashy accessories.
Keep a low profile, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Even popular spots like Trebević mountain have seen thefts, so stay alert and keep your belongings in sight at all times.
This is a place where you want to watch every step you take, literally and figuratively.
How Does Bosnia and Herzegovina Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Bosnia and Herzegovina | 48 |
 Gambia | 69 |
 Jordan | 62 |
 Maldives | 46 |
 South Sudan | 10 |
 Japan | 89 |
 Australia | 86 |
 Samoa | 70 |
 Kosovo | 44 |
Useful Information
Visas
U.S. and most European passport holders can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina visa-free for up to 90 days. Your passport needs to be valid for at least three months beyond your departure. If you're connecting through a Schengen country, you may need ETIAS.
Currency
Bosnia uses the convertible mark (BAM), and cash is preferred in most places. Some larger hotels or tourist spots might take cards, but don't count on it everywhere. You’ll find ATMs in cities and towns, but it's smart to keep small bills on hand, especially in rural areas.
Weather
The country has four distinct seasons, so timing your trip depends on what you want. Winters bring snow and great skiing in the Dinaric Alps. Summers are hot but not unbearable, especially in the mountains. Spring and fall are mellow and ideal for city exploring or hiking without the crowds.
Airports
Sarajevo International is the main airport, but it's not huge, so don’t expect tons of amenities. Banja Luka and Mostar also have regional airports with limited service. Flights are mostly via hubs like Vienna or Istanbul, so you’ll likely have a layover. Arrive early since lines can slow to a crawl.
Travel Insurance
It's not legally required, but we always recommend getting a policy to protect your health, baggage, and trip plans. Medical facilities are decent in cities but limited in rural areas, and evacuation or private care can get expensive fast. Coverage for delays, theft, and car rentals is also worth considering if you're road-tripping.
Bosnia and Herzegovina Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
1 | 3 | 9 | 13 | 18 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 20 | 14 | 8 | 3 |
| Low °C |
-5 | -3 | 3 | 4 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 9 | 4 | 2 | -4 |
| High °F |
34 | 37 | 48 | 55 | 64 | 72 | 75 | 75 | 68 | 57 | 46 | 37 |
| Low °F |
23 | 27 | 37 | 39 | 46 | 50 | 54 | 54 | 48 | 39 | 36 | 25 |
Bosnia and Herzegovina - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Banja Luka | 60 |
| Sarajevo | 65 |
great food
I was last year in Bosnia, I visited Mostar, Tuzla and Sarajevo, in general they could work a little bit on trash around the roads, but all in all it was great. Town called Tuzla is in north east part of Bosnia, couple hours by car away from Sarajevo, it has airport with cheap plain tickets, google it little bit, also it was summer so I went to Tuzla lakes, man made salt lakes. That was awesome. Sarajevo is also great, old city especially. Similar shops you can see in Mostar near the old bridge as well.
We didn’t have any problems at all, lot’s of Bosnians speaks fairly good English. Nice place to see, something different….
I wish it were called Yugoslavia again
I would like to agree. I went to Mostar with a rent a car from Belgrade Serbia and we didn’t even get a scratch on it. The people were very nice. We went to the City Centre and watched the divers off the bridge. They like to impress the tourists. Don’t miss this beautiful historic little town, you won’t regret it. My Aunt who is a Serb from Montenegro lives there and she loves it. She has many good friends that are Croats and Muslims.
Muslim is not a nation.
Bosniacs (Bošnjaci) is a title the majority of Bosnia’s population uses when ask how they identify. Their faith is a Suni form of Islam, which is a leftover from the time of Turkish rule in Bosnia (ca. 1485-1685 a.d.)
Before the fallout of Yugoslavia followed by the war of independence (’90s), they were an unconstitutional minority in the SFRJ Yugoslavia, and during population censuses held each decade, they were forced to choose to identify as to be either Serbs, Croats or Yugoslavs (atheists)… Only when the Republic of BiH was proclaimed as a sovereign country it’s when they finally got their “Bosniacs” identity…
I wish I could call this Country Yugoslavia again
I visited Mostar approx. 2 years ago and it was beautiful!
You must visit the old city centre with it’s beautiful bridge!
There are usually young men diving off the bridge for tourists!
You will be safe but remember to check in with the local police station.
There are Croats and there are Muslims in this city.
You will see many mosques and churches too.
Don’t miss it. It’s worth a stop.
you dont want yugoslavia back.
Yugoslavia was definitely not a great country. it had communism, they killed thousands and thousand people in the name of Tito and communism. you dont want it back, believe me.
Obviously you are ill informed. Yugoslavia had stability and unity during Tito regime. Tito punished the nazi collaborators which were many especially the Croats.Serbs and Jews were massacred by those people and justice was done .Unfortunately many guilty collaborators escaped to Argentina and other countries including USA using false names.
so then you spport yugoslavia killing bosnians?
Emily, it seems you’re not well informed about Yugoslav brand of communism. Yugoslavia broke off with Stalin in 1948 since it refused to be just another soviet puppet state. I was born and raised in Sarajevo, went to high school, spent my summers on the Adriatic coast or traveling to United States, Benelux, Switzerland, Germany, United Kingdom, Tunisia, Egypt… Yugoslav passport was one of the most valuable in the world. We didn’t need a visa to travel to western countries or soviet bloc. I grew up wearing Levi’s, Nike, Adidas, drinking Coca Cola and Pepsi, watching MTV, and bunch of other foreign channels thanks to satellite tv which was available to every citizen. Tito did punish the native Nazi collaborators which is what every country that was involved in WWII did. One of the main source of income for Yugoslavia was tourism. Foreigners from both west and east flocked to the beaches along the Adriatic Sea in summer and to the Olympic mountains around Sarajevo in the winter. I currently live in the US. I don’t know where you’re from and what’s your educational background but I personally find it silly when people try to discuss communism and socialism not knowing the difference between the two, or equating communism in former Soviet Union to the political system in former Yugoslavia. Russian federation is now de jure a capitalist democracy. But de facto it is not. I suggest that you get acquainted with the culture and the way of life in different countries that were made up the former Yugoslavia. Get different opinions from different people, because you’ll get different versions of the events that led up to the country’s collapse and the wars that ensued. Majority of the facts are well known and cannot be disputed, but certain topics that are touchy will be presented differently depending on who you talk to. The truth is often somewhere in between. There is an excellent BBC produced documentary available on YouTube (all 6 episodes) called “Death of Yugoslavia.” There’s also a companion book by the same name. I strongly suggest reading the book and watching the documentary if you’re interested in learning more about former Yugoslavia.
All the best!
Yugoslavia rocks
Thanks JD! Well said – I also lived in Yugoslavia and have the best memories. Going to visit now is not the same …. my dad still says “bring back my Tito”
Complicated but interesting past
My parents are from former Yugoslavia – my dad is from Sarajevo. I definitely agree that everyone remembers things differently especially with regards to why everything fell apart but most people I know from there recall the “Tito times” as being very good and people having a very good life back then. Of course, like with any country, I’m sure there were some people who had it bad/worse than others (romani for example). But that’s in the past now and I do hope all ex-yu countries can have a bright future
Forget about the past!
The disagreement between Serbs and Bosniaks will never end. So how about letting bygones be bygones and focusing on the future? Yougoslavia will never return, so there is no point in saying Bring Back Yougoslavia, knowing it may hurt some people.
I have friends (in Australia) who are Bosnians, Serbs and Croats, and so far, I have not met a single person from the Balnaks that I have not liked. This is because you have so much goodness in common but decide to focus on the past and the differences.
Yugoslavia wasn’t communist nor capitalist. It doesn’t exist today.
No one has mentoined actually how cheap this country is
There is no possibility for exchanging money in streets. You should update you false info.
Actually it is. In Banja Luka (December 2021) at the main square next to Boska shopping mall when entering Gospodska street you will always find guy or two offering exchange. “Deviza, deviza??”
Safe but terrible place
A dear friend of mine lives there, I follow her because she’s amazing and have been for years. She rescues so many animals in this country. Sadly, she posts some of the most shocking pictures of strays who have been poisoned (apparently they are poisoned a lot), or animals dying in the street with a group of people chatting several feet away taking no notice. This place may be safe for people, but if you’re an animal lover, this isn’t where you want to be. Stay away from Sarajevo.
Hi Elizabeth, thank you so much for this information about these poor animals. I have been wondering what happens to the strays, because tragically, so many animals suffer the most horrible, inhumane and painful deaths by poisoning, its shameful. Does your friend have a charity that I can donate to?
Best wishes,
Naomi, UK.
It is not terrible, it is not a rich country
It is not a terrible place, it is a poor place.
It is baffling to me how people form rich countries judges peoples form places where the reality is so different. Rich countries spend fortunes on pets (I love pets, don’t get me wrong) while children go hungry in other places.
You must see the Smart Travel (smarttravel.com.au) page about Bosnia published by the Australian government. Almost everything is described as dangerous, risky and of low-quality. The obnoxiousness of western society is endless.
Are you serious?
Nobody is poisoning animals on the streets here, what are you talking about?! Almost every home has a pet, mostly dog or cat, or both. Many of them adopt strays, instead of buying purebreds. Even I have adopted 4 stray cats that came to my doorstep and I don’t even prefer cats. There might be some cases when animals are treated badly but it’s not a common thing at all.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina safety info opened my eyes to things I wouldn’t have thought about like navigating areas with leftover landmines, local crime nuances, and tips for public transit, It made me more curios about exploring beyond Sarajevo’s main streets.
It’s crazy how you can walk through Sarajevo and feel the weight of history while also soaking in all that vibrant life around; it really hits different.