Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of the most interesting destinations in the Balkans. The country combines Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian heritage, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, Mediterranean influences and beautiful historic cities. Sarajevo, Mostar, Blagaj, Jajce and Trebinje are just some of the places worth including in your itinerary.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is also a convenient destination for traveling by car from Bulgaria, which makes it particularly suitable for individual trips and short breaks.
Information | Data |
Capital | Sarajevo |
Official languages | Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian |
Currency | Convertible Mark (BAM / KM) |
Telephone code | +387 |
Time zone | UTC+1 |
Daylight Saving Time | Yes |
Difference with Bulgaria | -1 hour |
Electricity | 230V / 50Hz |
Driving | Right |
Internet | Good coverage in cities |
Police | 122 |
Fire department | 123 |
Emergency assistance | 124 |
Bosnia and Herzegovina is in the time zone UTC+1 in winter and UTC+2 in summer.
The difference with Bulgaria is 1 hour ago all year round. If it is 3:00 PM in Sofia, it is 2:00 PM in Sarajevo.
In Bosnia and Herzegovina the electrical network is 230 V / 50 Hz.
The most commonly used types are C and F – the standard European plugs.
For tourists from Bulgaria, a special adapter is usually not needed.
For Bulgarian citizens no visa required for a tourist trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bulgaria is among the countries whose citizens can enter without a visa. The visa-free stay is up to 90 days within 180 days.
Current requirements can be checked in the official information of the Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bulgarian citizens can travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina with a valid passport or ID card.
Official information from the Bosnian authorities states that citizens of European Union countries can enter, exit, transit and reside in the country for up to 90 days within 180 days and with a valid ID card.
It is recommended that you carry:
When crossing the border, you must have a valid travel document.
Bosnian authorities state that the document must be valid for at least 3 months after the planned date of departure from the country and must have been issued within the last 10 years, unless it is a document with permanent validity.
When traveling by car, you must also have the vehicle documents and valid insurance.
Bulgaria has an embassy in Sarajevo.
Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria in Sarajevo
Address: 71000 Sarajevo, 30 Radnička Str., BiH
Phones: +387 33 879 955 / 956
Duty phone outside working hours: +387 61 599 493
E-mail: Embassy.Sarajevo@mfa.bg
Consular Service
Phone: +387 33 879 957
Working hours with citizens: 10:30–12:30 local time
E-mail: Consulate.Sarajevo@mfa.bg
Contacts are published by Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has an embassy in Sofia.
If you need consular or other official information, you can seek assistance from the diplomatic mission of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Bulgaria.
Up-to-date information on bilateral relations and representations can be found at the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The main emergency numbers in Bosnia and Herzegovina are:
The number 122 is listed as the police number for the entire territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria designates Bosnia and Herzegovina as risk level 2 – increased caution.
For tourists, the most important specific risk is related to the presence of mined areas and territories not cleared from war.
Do not leave marked tourist routes in mountainous and rural areas and do not enter unmarked territories.
When hiking, use official tourist routes and follow the instructions of local authorities and guides.
As with any trip, protect your personal belongings and avoid leaving valuables in a car.
For tourists, eSIM is a convenient option for internet in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Airalo – eSIM for Bosnia and Herzegovina offers local eSIM packages using the BH Telecom network. Packages and prices are subject to change, so check the current offers before purchasing.
The eSIM can be pre-installed while you still have a stable internet connection.
The official currency is convertible mark, denoted as BAM or KM.
The currency is fixed to the euro at the rate of:
1 EUR = 1.95583 BAM
Bank cards are accepted in cities and tourist areas, but it is advisable to always have some cash with you.
Especially when visiting smaller towns, markets, mountainous areas, and some family-run establishments, paying in cash is more convenient.
The Euro is a widely recognized currency and can be easily exchanged in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
It is best to use banks and official exchange offices.
Avoid informal exchanges on the street.
On a shorter trip, you don't need to exchange a large amount of money in advance.
Tipping is not mandatory, but is appreciated for good service.
In restaurants and cafes, you can leave about 5–10% if you are satisfied with the service.
For taxis, you can simply round up the amount.
On organized excursions, tipping a local guide or driver is also perfectly acceptable.
In many places, tap water is safe to drink, but the quality may vary depending on the area and the specific water supply system.
If in doubt, use bottled water.
When hiking, do not drink water from natural sources unless it has been reliably purified.
Bosnian cuisine is a combination of Balkan, Ottoman, and Central European influences.
When eating in tourist areas, standard hygiene rules are completely sufficient.
It is recommended to:
There are medical facilities and pharmacies in Sarajevo, Mostar and other larger cities.
When traveling, it is advisable to have travel medical insurance.
It is especially useful for:
Carry the medications you take regularly in their original packaging.
Unlike Bolivia, altitude in Bosnia and Herzegovina does not usually pose a serious problem for tourists.
However, the country is mountainous and the weather can change quickly during hikes.
For mountain routes, wear appropriate shoes, outerwear, and enough water.
During the summer months, the sun can be strong, especially during long walks and mountain hikes.
Wear:
During the warmer months, mosquitoes and other insects may be encountered in natural areas.
When camping, fishing, or staying around rivers and lakes, it is a good idea to wear insect repellent.
For a standard city break, no special preparation is usually required.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is an excellent destination for nature lovers.
Popular activities are:
For adventure activities, use licensed operators and do not underestimate mountain conditions.
There are buses, trams and trolleybuses in Sarajevo.
Buses are mainly used between major cities, and rail transport has more limited coverage.
Buses are a convenient option for connections between Sarajevo, Mostar and other tourist centers.
The railway network is not as developed as in Western Europe, but some routes offer very beautiful views.
Particularly interesting are the trips on the lines between Sarajevo and Mostar.
Traveling by train can be a pleasant alternative to the car, especially for tourists who want to enjoy the mountain landscapes.
Buses are one of the most practical ways to travel between cities.
Among the popular destinations are:
Schedules may change seasonally, so check for the latest information before traveling.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is very suitable for car travel.
This is one of the best ways to visit Sarajevo, Mostar, Blagaj, Kravice, Jajce, Travnik and Trebinje at the same time.
Roads in mountainous areas can be narrow and winding.
Snow and ice are possible in winter.
The Bulgarian driver's license can be used for tourist travel.
It is recommended that you carry the original license plate along with the vehicle documents.
When using a rental car, check the specific company's terms and conditions in advance.
Car rentals are available in Sarajevo, Mostar and at the airports.
When renting, check:
If you plan to pass through Croatia, Montenegro or Serbia, be sure to notify the car rental company in advance.
When entering with a foreign-registered vehicle, you must have valid international car insurance recognized in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The Green Card Bureau of Bosnia and Herzegovina publishes up-to-date information on requirements for foreign cars.
Before traveling, check specifically whether a Green Card/IMIC document is required for your vehicle or if a regime applies where the registration number is sufficient.
Sarajevo is the capital and cultural center of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The city is known for its mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and modern architecture.
Among the places worth visiting are:
Sarajevo is a city that can be explored in a few days, but it is also suitable as a base for touring the country.
Mostar is one of the most visited destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The most famous landmark is the Old Bridge over the Neretva River.
The old town is filled with cobblestone streets, small shops, restaurants and traditional architecture.
Mostar is especially beautiful in the early morning hours and at dusk, when there are fewer tourist groups.
The Old Bridge is one of the symbols of the country and part of the UNESCO site "Old Town of Mostar".
The bridge was rebuilt after its destruction during the war and today is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Balkans.
During the summer months, surges in the waters of the Neretva can traditionally be observed.
Blagaj is located not far from Mostar and is an excellent idea for a day trip.
The most famous landmark is the spring of the Buna River and the tekke located next to the rocks.
The area is especially beautiful in spring and summer.
Kravice Waterfalls are one of the most impressive natural sites in Herzegovina.
They are set amidst green vegetation and are popular for day trips from Mostar.
During the warmer months, the area is suitable for walking and swimming in designated areas.
Jajce is a historic town, famous for its medieval fortress and the waterfall, which is located right next to the city center.
Among the interesting places are:
Travnik is known as a historic city and a former center of Ottoman power in the region.
Among the main attractions are the fortress, the old town and the traditional architecture.
Travnik is also famous for its cuisine, especially the traditional Travnička pljeskavica.
Trebinje is located in the southern part of the country, near the borders with Croatia and Montenegro.
The city offers a more Mediterranean atmosphere, a stone old town, the Trebišnica River, and a pleasant climate.
This is an excellent stop on a route combining Bosnia and Herzegovina with Dubrovnik or Montenegro.
Banja Luka is the second largest city in the country and the administrative center of Republika Srpska.
The city is known for its parks, the Varbas River, the Kastel Fortress, and its peaceful atmosphere.
It is suitable for tourists who want to see a different part of Bosnia and Herzegovina outside the classic Sarajevo-Mostar route.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a short outlet to the Adriatic Sea at Neum.
Neum is the only seaside resort in the country.
The area is suitable for combining a seaside holiday with a visit to Mostar, Dubrovnik and other places in Herzegovina.
The most suitable period depends on the type of trip.
Spring is excellent for city tourism, nature and waterfalls.
Summer is suitable for the sea, rafting and natural attractions, but it can be hot in Mostar and other popular places.
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful colors in the mountainous areas.
Winter is suitable for skiing and winter sports in mountain resorts.
For a standard trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is a good idea to bring:
If you are planning mountain hikes, add hiking boots and appropriate outerwear.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a suitable destination for family trips.
Particularly interesting for children may be:
For mountain routes, choose paths according to the age and physical fitness of the children.
When traveling with a pet, check in advance:
If you are traveling by car through Croatia, Serbia or Montenegro, also check the transit requirements.
Among the main holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina are:
Holidays and official weekends may vary depending on the administrative unit and religious community.
When traveling around holidays, check the opening hours of specific sites.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a multi-religious country.
Muslims, Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and representatives of other communities live here.
When visiting mosques, churches, and other religious sites, it is important to follow the rules of dress and behavior.
When visiting a mosque, more conservative attire is usually required, and in some cases, shoes are removed.
Bosnian cuisine is one of the reasons the country is so enjoyable to visit.
Must try:
Traditional Bosnian coffee is an important part of local culture.
It is prepared in a manner similar to Turkish coffee, and is usually served in a small container with a glass of water and jam or sugar.
There are many traditional cafes in Sarajevo and Mostar where you can try it.
Good day – Good afternoon
Good morning – Good morning
Good evening – Good evening
Thank you – Thank you
Please. – Please
Excuse me. – Excuse me.
How much does it cost? – How much does it cost?
Where is…? – Where is…?
Do you speak English? – Do you speak English?
I don't understand. – I don't understand.
Can you help me? – Can you help me?
Invoice, please. - The check, please
Water, please. - Water, please
I need a doctor. – I need a doctor.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is relatively easy to visit, but there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Do not venture off marked routes in mountainous and rural areas due to the risk of mines.
When traveling by car, check the road conditions and the weather forecast.
Carry some cash, even when you plan to mainly use a card.
In tourist cities, English is relatively common.
If you are planning a visit to Mostar during the summer months, leave early in the morning when temperatures are lower and there are fewer tourists.
Before leaving for Bosnia and Herzegovina, check:
Is a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina required for Bulgarians?
No. Bulgarian citizens can travel without a visa for short-term stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Can I enter with an ID card?
Yes. European Union citizens can also enter with a valid ID card.
Can I travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina by car from Bulgaria?
Yes. Bosnia and Herzegovina is suitable for car travel. You need to have valid car documents and the necessary insurance coverage.
What is the currency in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Convertible Mark – BAM or KM.
Are euros accepted?
The Euro is widely recognized, but the official currency is BAM. It is best to use local currency for payment.
What is the best place to visit?
For a first trip, a good choice is the Sarajevo – Mostar – Blagaj – Kravice – Trebinje route.
How many days are enough for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
For the main sights, about 5–7 days are suitable. With a road route of 7–10 days, you can include significantly more places.
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina dangerous?
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has assigned the country a risk level of 2 - increased caution. The most important specific recommendation is not to enter unmarked areas due to the danger of mines.
Is there a sea in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes. The country has a short outlet to the Adriatic Sea at Neum.
When is the best time to visit Mostar?
Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. Summer is suitable, but can be very hot and more crowded with tourists.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bulgaria – information about Bosnia and Herzegovina
Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina – Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Embassy of Bulgaria in Sarajevo
Embassy of Bulgaria in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina – information for foreigners
Information on entry and stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Official tourist information
Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina
eSIM for Bosnia and Herzegovina
Airalo - Bosnia and Herzegovina eSIM
Information about cars and insurance
Green Card Bureau Bosnia and Herzegovina
Information about visas, border regulations, transportation, security, vehicle requirements, and consular services is subject to change.
Before traveling, check the current instructions of the Bulgarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the competent institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Especially if you are traveling by car, check in advance the current requirements for car insurance and the documents needed to cross the border.
On mountain and nature trails, follow marked trails and local instructions.
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