Bosnia-Herzegovina

 

 

 

 

B osnia-Herzegovina is so new on the international tourism scene that most of us still equate it with the bloody ethnic war that took place here in the 1990s. Today, however, it could be on its way to becoming a top European adventure sports center as people flock to the country to raft and kayak its rivers, and ski and hike its mountain slopes and trails.

One of the two most visited places in the country is Sarajevo where the skyline, punctuated by minarets as well as campaniles and onion-shaped domes, attests to the merging of cultures in the city. It central district of Baščaršija, the most popular part of the city, is a pedestrian zone filled with cafes and shops.

The other major tourist attraction is Mostar, especially its old town, where the big attraction is Stari Most, the Old Bridge. Originally built by the Turks, it was destroyed by the Croats in the war in 1993, and then rebuilt.

Top Experiences

Sarajevo – one of Europe’s liveliest cities
Mostar – provincial capital of the Ottoman Empire
Travnik – minarets and a medieval fortress

Good to Know

Mostar’s Old Bridge
Mostar’s Old Bridge, Stari Most, was originally built by Suleyman the Magnificent and was rebuilt in 2004 following   the ethnic war.

Transportation

Sarajevo International Airport is the only airport with daily international flights. The country’s bus service is reliable although its rail network – severely damaged in the Bosnian War – is slow and provides only limited service. Travel by car is the most convenient form of transportation although it’s still unsafe to stray off the road in some areas since unexploded landmines from the war have not yet been cleared from all areas.

Hotels

Throughout the country most hotels are mid-range or budget. There are few four- or five-star hotels.

Food

Cuisine focuses mainly on meat dishes without salads or side dishes. Restaurants in hotels usually offer a more international selection.

Quality of Medical Care (Good/Fair/Poor)

Fair