One of the least visited countries in Europe, the former Yugoslav nation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a treasure trove of architectural and natural beauty. Capital of the country and one of the most fascinating cities in Europe – Sarajevo is a must-see when visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina! For such a low-key city, Sarajevo has too often been at the center of turbulent history: this is where the First World War began, this is where the 1984 Winter Olympics took place, it is where the longest siege in modern history took place.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a budget travelers’ paradise. Food, drink and accommodation are all affordable, even in the cities. Free or wild camping is very easy or there are many beautiful and inexpensive campsites. A meal costs around € 4 and a beer costs € 1 or less in a bar / restaurant
Mostar is the typical postcard-perfect image of Bosnia and Herzegovina that adorns almost every tourist advertisement in the country. Stari Most, the old bridge that is not so old after being rebuilt after a conflict, attracts cruise day trippers and is where most people choose to spend their short trips to the country. Away from the crowds on the bridge, where daredevil divers leap into the freezing waters below, this town has a truly charming and peaceful way of life.
Whenever Bosnians want to discuss something, they head to the nearest cafe. Indeed, wherever you go in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it seems almost impossible to find a bad beer. Many Bosnians now choose Italian espresso, but true Bosnian coffee is something unique. It comes in an individual long neck copper pot called a džezva. Flavor-wise, it’s similar to Turkish – served in thick mud in dice-sized cups, often with a cube of lokum (Turkish delight) – but unlike Turkish coffee, the grounds are carried to boil several times to create a suitable cream.
Bosnia and Herzegovina has some of the most breathtaking natural sites in the world and it is one of the most biodiverse country in Europe, prides itself on being home to dozens of endemic species of flora and fauna Green rivers emerald with fascinating Ottoman architecture, this Balkan country has it all and should be one of the places to visit at least once in your life.
The best time to enjoy Bosnia and Herzegovina is between March and May and between October and November.
For nationals of Schengen countries, an identity card will allow entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina, but it is best to have your passport to receive a stamp with an entry date, because the stay is limited to 3 months.
No particular risk is identified in Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the other hand it will be necessary to be careful to remain on the roads and forest paths, zones remain still mined.
Expect to find plane tickets ranging from € 180 to € 250 from Paris.
The time zone is UTC +01: 00. In other words, there is no time difference with France.
There are several languages used: Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian, all from Serbo-Croatian which no longer exists as such officially.
French Embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina: +387 33 282-050 – Mehmed Bega Kapetanovića Ljubušaka 18, Sarajevo 71000.
Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in France: 01 42 67 34 22 – 174 Rue de Courcelles, 75017 Paris.
Telephone and internet
Telephone code to call to Bosnia and Herzegovina: +387.
Internet access is available across the country, in most hotels and bars, at slow speeds.
Classic as in Western Europe: + 230V and sockets of the same type as in France
Service level: Luxury
Activity level: Moderate
Group size: Private group
Service level: Basic
Activity level: Moderate
Group size: Small group
Service level: Self-drive
Activity level: Moderate
Group size: Private group
