Bosnia and Herzegovina travel is full of surprises. Ottoman bridges, Austro-Hungarian streets, turquoise rivers and thundering waterfalls all sit close together. Better still, the country is still far quieter than its Adriatic neighbours.

However, many visitors only see Dubrovnik next door. Instead, a week inside Bosnia reveals a country with deep history and warm hospitality. Here are the places that make it so rewarding. If you enjoy active, off-the-beaten-track trips, read our guide to what adventure travel really means too.

Why Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel Works So Well

Bosnia and Herzegovina sits in the heart of the Balkans. As a result, East and West meet here in the food, the architecture and the language. Moreover, the sights are close together, so you spend more time exploring and less time in the car.

In addition, the landscape is wild. Dinaric mountains, ancient forest and clear rivers surround the towns. Our Bosnia & Herzegovina Experience covers seven nights with a small group of up to eight people and a bilingual guide.

Sarajevo: Where East Meets West

Sarajevo is the heart of any Bosnia and Herzegovina travel plan. Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences meet on every corner. Also, the city hosted the 1984 Winter Olympics, which makes its story even more fascinating.

Start in Baščaršija, the old bazaar, then wander along Ferhadija Street. A food walking tour is a delicious way to learn the city’s history. After that, a cable car takes you up to the abandoned Olympic bobsleigh track. Meanwhile, the Tunnel of Hope and the museums give a sober look at the siege years.

Mostar: A Highlight of Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel

Mostar is the postcard of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Stari Most bridge arches over the Neretva River. It was commissioned almost five centuries ago and rebuilt in 2004, so it now stands as a symbol of reconciliation.

Stay in the Old Town, close to the bridge. Then watch the sunset glow over the river. Afterwards, find a café on the cobbled streets and enjoy the evening. Therefore, one night here feels like the highlight of the week.

Kravice Waterfalls: Swim, Hike and Relax

Next, the Kravice Waterfalls make a spectacular stop. Water tumbles over a wide curved cliff into a green pool. You can hike around, swim or simply have a meal in an amazing setting.

On the same day, you visit Mlinčići, near Jajce. Its traditional watermills sit along quiet streams. Similarly, the stop gives a glimpse of how local life once worked.

Jajce and Travnik: Waterfalls and Ottoman Heritage

Travnik was once the seat of Ottoman viziers. Today, its medieval fortress and colourful mosque are well worth a look. Then the road continues to Jajce.

Jajce is one of the few towns with a waterfall right in its centre. A hilltop fortress watches over the old streets. Moreover, the nearby Pliva Waterfall is a lovely place to stretch your legs.

Blagaj and Stolac: Hidden Gems in Herzegovina

South of Mostar, Blagaj Monastery sits dramatically at the base of a cliff. The Buna River springs from a cave beneath it. As a result, the setting is calm and almost magical.

Afterwards, you visit Stolac, a quiet town with a picturesque bridge and gentle waterfalls. Few travellers make it here. Therefore, you will often have the place to yourself.

Trebinje and Perućica: Old Streets and Ancient Forest

Trebinje is a relaxed town of cobbled streets, markets and riverbanks. It is a pleasant place to end a day. Also, it is close to Dubrovnik, so it works well as a start or finish point.

Between Trebinje and Sarajevo, the road crosses Perućica National Park. It is home to one of Europe’s last primeval forests. Finally, towering trees, lakes and waterfalls make a fine backdrop for the drive.

Plan Your Bosnia and Herzegovina Travel

The Bosnia & Herzegovina Experience runs from spring to late autumn. Moreover, it can be combined with Montenegro if you would like a longer journey. A scarf is useful, because you will visit mosques and should dress respectfully.

Places are limited to eight people, so enquire early. Alternatively, browse all our small group trips to compare other destinations.

Written by James Chisnall