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Is Bosnia and Herzegovina Safe for Travelers in 2025? My Complete Safety Guide

Discover if Bosnia and Herzegovina is safe for travelers in 2025 with our comprehensive local safety guide covering crime rates, political stability, COVID protocols, and practical advice from a seasoned traveler.

My Experience with Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina

When I first told friends I was heading to Bosnia and Herzegovina back in 2017, I got the same concerned looks I imagine many travelers still encounter. “Isn’t there still a war going on?” asked one friend, while another warned me to “watch out for landmines.” Those misconceptions couldn’t have been further from my actual experience. After six visits spanning nearly a decade (my most recent being March 2024), I can confidently say that Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe’s most unfairly misunderstood destinations when it comes to safety.

I still remember my first night in Sarajevo, walking alone at 11pm from the Old Town back to my accommodation, feeling safer than I often do in major Western European capitals. A local grandfather even stepped out of his home to help me find my way when I looked lost, insisting on walking me to the correct street despite the language barrier. That moment encapsulated what would become a pattern of unexpected hospitality that has defined my many trips to BiH.

Current Safety Situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina (2025 Update)

Let’s address the elephant in the room: Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally a safe destination for travelers in 2025, with crime rates significantly lower than many Western European countries. The days of conflict are long gone, with the Dayton Peace Agreement ending hostilities in 1995 – that’s 30 years ago now.

While news headlines occasionally focus on political tensions, these rarely affect tourists. In fact, as a visitor, you’ll likely find yourself wrapped in the warmth of Bosnian hospitality rather than encountering any safety issues.

Crime Statistics and Realities

The crime rate in Bosnia and Herzegovina continues to be lower than in many popular European destinations. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare, and most safety concerns are limited to petty theft in crowded tourist areas – just like anywhere else in Europe.

Type of Crime Risk Level Common Locations
Violent Crime Very Low Rare throughout the country
Petty Theft/Pickpocketing Low-Moderate Baščaršija (Sarajevo), crowded markets, bus stations
Scams Low Tourist areas, taxi overcharging (less common than before)
Terrorism Low No recent incidents targeting tourists

During my six visits, I’ve never experienced theft or felt threatened. The biggest “crime” I’ve encountered was a taxi driver in Mostar who tried to charge me 15 KM for what should have been a 5 KM ride – and even that has become less common with improved regulation and ride-sharing apps.

Political Stability in 2025

While Bosnia’s post-war political structure remains complex, the situation has notably stabilized in recent years. As of 2025, diplomatic relations have improved following several successful regional cooperation initiatives. The EU accession process, while still ongoing, has brought increased stability and infrastructure improvements.

As a traveler, you’ll notice that while locals may discuss politics passionately, the everyday reality is far from the tension sometimes portrayed in international media. In fact, Sarajevo and Mostar have experienced significant development in tourism infrastructure over the past five years, with new hotels, restaurants, and improved transportation options.

Health and Medical Safety

The COVID-19 situation has largely normalized by 2025, with Bosnia following standard European protocols. The country has made significant improvements to its healthcare system, though it still doesn’t match Western European standards in some rural areas.

Major cities like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka have private clinics with English-speaking staff that provide good care for travelers. I recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, just to be safe.

Traveler Tip: I always keep the contact information for Clinical Center University of Sarajevo saved in my phone. They have experience with international patients and some English-speaking staff.

Region-by-Region Safety Assessment

Sarajevo and Surroundings

The capital city is genuinely safe for travelers. The compact city center allows for easy walking, even at night, particularly in areas like Baščaršija (Old Town), Ferhadija Street, and around Sarajevo City Center mall. As in any capital, exercise normal precautions in less central neighborhoods at night.

Sarajevo’s transformation over the past few years has been remarkable. The Trebević cable car is now fully operational again, safely taking visitors to the mountains overlooking the city, including near the abandoned 1984 Olympic bobsled track. While exploring the track, stay on marked paths as some areas off the main trail may still have warning signs about potential unexploded ordnance.

Mostar and Herzegovina

Mostar is extremely safe for tourists, with its main safety hazard being the slippery stones on the steep streets leading to the famous Stari Most (Old Bridge). The real danger here is simply the crowds during peak summer months and occasional heat waves that have become more common due to climate change.

The surrounding Herzegovina region, with its stunning waterfalls at Kravice (now with improved visitor facilities as of 2023) and the pilgrimage site of Međugorje, presents no significant safety concerns. Solo female travelers have reported feeling very comfortable in this region.

Landmine Awareness in Rural Areas

This is the safety concern that most potential visitors worry about, but it’s largely misunderstood. While Bosnia did have a significant landmine problem following the war, extensive demining efforts have cleared all urban areas, tourist sites, and major hiking trails.

The remaining mined areas are rural, remote, and clearly marked with warning signs. As long as you:

  • Stick to established paths and roads
  • Never ignore warning signs or tape
  • Avoid abandoned buildings in very remote areas
  • Hike with local guides when venturing into mountains

You’ll face no landmine risk. I’ve hiked extensively around the country, and it’s simply not something that affects regular tourism. In fact, Bosnia’s Mine Action Center reports that all popular tourist areas and hiking trails are completely cleared, with remaining affected areas scheduled for complete clearance by 2027.

Practical Safety Tips from My Personal Experience

Transportation Safety

Getting around Bosnia and Herzegovina has become increasingly safe and efficient. Road quality has improved significantly in the past five years, with new highways connecting major cities. However, mountain roads can still be challenging, especially in winter.

Public transportation is generally reliable and safe, though buses between cities might not always run exactly on schedule. The good news is that Sarajevo’s newly renovated airport (completed in 2023) now offers more direct connections to European hubs.

  1. Taxis: Always use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps like Hopp or Sarajevo Taxi. If hailing a street taxi, ensure it has a meter or agree on a price beforehand.
  2. Intercity buses: The main bus companies (Centrotrans, Autoprevoz) are reliable and safe. Purchase tickets in advance during summer high season.
  3. Rental cars: Major international companies operate in Bosnia, but local agencies like CarWiz often offer better rates. Roads can be narrow in mountainous regions, so rent an appropriate vehicle.
  4. Trains: The Sarajevo-Mostar-Čapljina line offers spectacular views but runs infrequently. Check the updated Federal Railways schedule before planning.

I once made the mistake of assuming I could easily find a bus from Jajce to Travnik without checking the schedule. I ended up stranded for hours before a kind local offered me a ride with his family. Always verify transportation schedules, especially when traveling to smaller towns.

Money and Scam Avoidance

Financial safety in Bosnia is straightforward. ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas, though you might struggle to find them in very small villages. Most businesses in tourist areas accept credit cards, but smaller establishments and rural areas remain cash-based.

The currency is the Convertible Mark (KM), pegged to the Euro at a fixed rate (1 EUR = 1.95583 KM). This makes conversions easy. Many places will accept Euros, though usually at a less favorable exchange rate.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #1: Exchange money at banks rather than airport kiosks or tourist exchange offices. I’ve found Raiffeisen Bank consistently offers the best rates with no commission fees. This alone saved me about 40 KM (20 EUR) on my last trip.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #2: Use TransferWise (now Wise) to withdraw cash directly in local currency, which typically offers better rates than traditional bank cards. This can save you 3-5% on exchange fees.

Insider Money-Saving Tip #3: Many museums and attractions offer significantly discounted tickets after 4pm. The Historical Museum of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Sarajevo, for instance, reduces entry from 8 KM to just 4 KM in the late afternoon.

Communication and Language

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas, learning a few phrases in the local language(s) can enhance your experience and is appreciated by locals. Bosnia has three official languages (Bosnian, Croatian, and Serbian), but they’re mutually intelligible.

Here are some useful phrases:

  • “Hvala” (hvah-lah) – Thank you
  • “Dobar dan” (doh-bar dahn) – Good day
  • “Kako ste?” (kah-koh steh) – How are you?
  • “Oprostite” (oh-pros-tee-teh) – Excuse me

In emergencies, dial 122 for police, 123 for fire, or 124 for ambulance. Cell phone coverage is generally good throughout the country, with 4G available in most areas and 5G in major cities as of 2025.

Cultural Sensitivities and Social Safety

Bosnia and Herzegovina’s multi-ethnic and multi-religious composition makes it a fascinating cultural destination. While the country is predominantly Muslim, you’ll also find significant Orthodox Christian and Catholic communities. This diversity is reflected in the stunning mix of mosques, churches, and synagogues, particularly in Sarajevo.

When visiting religious sites, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered). Women aren’t required to cover their heads except when entering mosques, where scarves are usually provided at the entrance.

Avoid bringing up the war or ethnic tensions unless locals initiate the conversation. When they do (and many are open to discussing it), listen more than you speak. Every family has their own experiences and perspectives.

One mistake I made during my first visit was referring to everyone as “Bosnian” without understanding the nuances of identity in the country. Some people identify as Bosniak (primarily Muslim), Croatian, or Serbian, while others simply prefer “Bosnian and Herzegovinian” as a unified identity. If in doubt, ask respectfully how someone identifies.

Safety Tips for Special Traveler Groups

Solo Female Travelers

As a solo female traveler during several of my trips, I’ve consistently felt safe throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. Catcalling is much less common than in many Southern European countries, and there’s generally a culture of respect toward women.

However, I’ve found it helpful to dress somewhat modestly, particularly in more rural areas where traditional values persist. This doesn’t mean covering up completely – shorts and t-shirts are fine – but extremely revealing clothing might attract unwanted attention outside major cities.

Women-only compartments aren’t available on public transport, but I’ve never experienced problems on buses or trains. For accommodation, hostels in Sarajevo and Mostar often have female-only dorms upon request.

LGBTQ+ Travelers

Bosnia and Herzegovina remains relatively conservative regarding LGBTQ+ issues, though attitudes have been slowly evolving. Same-sex activity is legal, but there’s limited recognition of LGBTQ+ rights, and public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.

Sarajevo has become more progressive, hosting its first Pride parade in 2019, with subsequent annual events growing in size and acceptance. The capital has a few LGBTQ+-friendly venues, particularly around the Marijin Dvor neighborhood.

For LGBTQ+ travelers, discretion is advised in rural areas. Safety isn’t generally a concern, but comfort might be. Organizations like Sarajevo Open Centre can provide updated information and resources.

Families with Children

Bosnia and Herzegovina is exceptionally family-friendly. Bosnians adore children, and you’ll find your kids welcomed warmly everywhere you go. Many restaurants accommodate children gladly, often bringing special treats or attention to little ones.

The main challenges for families are practical rather than safety-related: limited diaper-changing facilities outside major hotels and occasional accessibility issues with strollers on old cobblestone streets.

For family activities, Vrelo Bosne park near Sarajevo offers beautiful, stroller-friendly paths along with horse-drawn carriage rides. The newly renovated Trebević cable car in Sarajevo is also a hit with kids.

Sustainable and Responsible Travel Safety

Traveling sustainably in Bosnia not only helps preserve this beautiful country but can also enhance your safety and save you money. Here are some recommendations that accomplish both:

Environmental Considerations

  • Tap water safety: Tap water is generally safe to drink in most areas, particularly in Sarajevo and major cities. This saves money on bottled water while reducing plastic waste. I use a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter for extra peace of mind.
  • Hiking safety: When exploring Bosnia’s magnificent mountains, stay on marked trails both for environmental protection and safety (particularly in very remote areas). The Via Dinarica trail system is well-marked and regularly maintained.
  • Waste management: Carry reusable bags for shopping and take your trash with you when visiting natural sites, as waste management infrastructure in rural areas is still developing.

Cultural Sustainability

Supporting local communities financially while respecting their cultural heritage creates a safer, more welcoming environment for future travelers:

  • Choose locally-owned accommodations through platforms like BookaHome that connect travelers directly with local hosts
  • Participate in community-based tourism initiatives like the War Childhood Tours that provide authentic perspectives while supporting local guides
  • Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans in places like Kazandžiluk (Coppersmith Street) in Sarajevo, where you can watch items being made

One of my biggest travel mistakes was buying a “traditional” copper coffee set from a tourist shop, only to later discover it was imported. Now I buy directly from the workshops where you can see the craftspeople at work – the quality is better, the experience more authentic, and the money goes directly to preserving traditional crafts.

Seasonal Safety Considerations

Summer (June-August)

Summer brings crowds to popular destinations like Mostar and potential heat waves, particularly in Herzegovina where temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F). The 2024 heat wave broke records, so for 2025, I recommend:

  • Visiting water-adjacent sites like Kravice Falls or Pliva Lakes during midday heat
  • Scheduling city exploration for early morning or evening
  • Carrying water and sun protection
  • Being aware of occasional summer thunderstorms in mountainous regions

Winter (December-February)

Bosnia’s winters bring stunning snow-covered landscapes but also travel challenges:

  • Mountain roads can be hazardous; check conditions before traveling
  • Carry chains if renting a car between November and March
  • Dress extremely warmly, as temperatures regularly drop below freezing
  • Be aware that smaller towns may have limited services during winter

The upside is experiencing magical winter scenes, excellent skiing at affordable prices compared to Alpine resorts, and cozy evenings in traditional restaurants serving hearty winter foods like japrak (stuffed cabbage rolls) and begova čorba (Bey’s soup).

Shoulder Seasons (April-May, September-October)

These are my favorite times to visit Bosnia. The weather is pleasant, crowds are thinner, and you’ll experience the country more like locals do. Spring brings brilliant green landscapes and wildflowers, while autumn offers spectacular foliage, harvest festivals, and perfect hiking weather.

The only significant safety consideration during shoulder seasons is occasional heavy rainfall, which can cause flash flooding in some areas. Check weather forecasts and avoid hiking in gorges during or immediately after heavy rains.

Emergency Situations and Resources

Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Service Phone Number
General Emergency 112
Police 122
Ambulance 124
Fire Department 123
Mountain Rescue +387 33 61 29 94

Embassy and Consular Support

Always register with your country’s embassy before traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Most embassies are located in Sarajevo, with the US Embassy at 1 Robert C. Frasure Street and the British Embassy at 11 Tina Ujevića Street.

I personally experienced the value of embassy registration when I lost my passport in 2019. Because I had registered my trip, the replacement process was much smoother than it would have been otherwise.

Travel Insurance Considerations

I never visit Bosnia without comprehensive travel insurance that specifically covers:

  • Medical evacuation (particularly important if hiking in remote areas)
  • Adventure activities if you plan to go rafting, hiking, or skiing
  • Trip cancellation/interruption
  • Theft of personal belongings

Companies like World Nomads and Safety Wing offer plans that work well for Bosnia and Herzegovina, with appropriate coverage levels for the region.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Safety Action Plan for Bosnia and Herzegovina

After dozens of memorable experiences across this beautiful country, I can confidently say that Bosnia and Herzegovina deserves to shed its outdated reputation as a dangerous destination. It offers an authenticity, value, and hospitality that’s increasingly rare in over-touristed parts of Europe.

To ensure your trip is both safe and enriching, follow this 5-step action plan:

  1. Before You Go: Register with your embassy, purchase comprehensive travel insurance, download maps offline, and learn a few basic phrases in Bosnian.
  2. Upon Arrival: Get a local SIM card (BH Telecom offers good coverage), exchange money at banks rather than airport kiosks, and save emergency numbers in your phone.
  3. Daily Safety Routine: Carry a photocopy of your passport while leaving the original in your accommodation safe, use ATMs attached to banks during daylight hours, and stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.
  4. Outdoor Exploration: Use local guides for remote hikes, check weather conditions before mountain excursions, and always let someone know your plans when venturing off the beaten path.
  5. Cultural Navigation: Approach war-related sites and discussions with sensitivity, respect religious customs when visiting sacred places, and embrace the local pace of life – which might be slower than you’re used to.

With these precautions in place, you’ll be free to experience the incredible history, stunning landscapes, and genuine warmth that make Bosnia and Herzegovina one of Europe’s true hidden gems. As they say in Bosnia, “Sretan put!” (Happy travels!)

Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Is it safe to drink tap water in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Yes, tap water is generally safe to drink in major cities and towns throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina. The water quality in Sarajevo is particularly good as it comes from mountain springs. However, in very rural areas or immediately after heavy rainfall, you might want to opt for bottled water or use a portable filter.

Are there still landmines in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

While some remote areas still contain unexploded ordnance, all tourist areas, cities, towns, and marked hiking trails have been completely cleared. Remaining mine-affected areas are clearly marked with warning signs. As long as you stay on established paths and heed any warning signs, you face no risk from landmines as a tourist.

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Harassment is much less common than in many European destinations, and violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. As always, standard precautions like avoiding isolated areas after dark and being aware of your surroundings are recommended.

How safe is Bosnia for LGBTQ+ travelers?

LGBTQ+ travelers can visit Bosnia safely, but public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention, particularly outside major cities. Sarajevo has grown more progressive in recent years, hosting annual Pride events since 2019. While legal protections exist, social attitudes remain relatively conservative. Discretion is advised in rural areas.

Is it safe to discuss the war and ethnic tensions with locals?

Many Bosnians are open to discussing their experiences and perspectives, but it’s best to let them initiate such conversations. When they do, listen respectfully without making broad generalizations. Remember that every family has their own unique experience of the conflict, and viewpoints vary widely depending on personal history and background.

What should I do in case of an emergency in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

For emergencies, dial 112 (general emergency), 122 (police), 124 (ambulance), or 123 (fire department). If you need consular assistance, contact your embassy in Sarajevo. Major cities have hospitals with emergency services, though medical facilities in rural areas may be limited.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Bosnia?

Credit cards are commonly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in tourist areas and cities, with Visa and Mastercard being most widely accepted. However, smaller establishments and businesses in rural areas often operate on a cash-only basis. Always carry some cash (Convertible Marks – KM) for small purchases and when traveling outside major cities.

Is it safe to rent and drive a car in Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Driving in Bosnia is generally safe, though road conditions vary. Major highways and roads connecting tourist destinations are well-maintained, but mountain roads can be narrow and challenging, especially in winter. Drive defensively and be prepared for occasional aggressive driving behaviors from locals. Always purchase full insurance coverage when renting.

References and Additional Resources