Bosnia and Herzegovina - hidden gem of the Balkans

In the heart of Europe - so close and yet a world away in atmosphere - a stay in Bosnia & Herzegovina is a journey back in time, exploring nature, culture and history.

This former Yugoslav nation is a hidden gem with a rich and complex history etched into every corner of the country. While many recall the tragic events of the civil war in the early 1990s, a visit reveals so much more: unforgettable memories, heartfelt connections with the warm and welcoming people of Bosnia, and a deep appreciation for this enchanting corner of the Balkans. With unspoiled natural beauty and a wealth of architectural treasures far from the crowds, Bosnia is a rare find in Europe. It also offers the perfect harmony between spiritual fulfilment and relaxation, with mouthwatering halal cuisine and easy access to historic mosques.

Sarajevo - the “European Jerusalem”

Begin your stay in the vibrant capital, Sarajevo, where you can visit places of worship representing all of the world’s major monotheistic religions: Orthodox and Catholic churches, synagogues and mosques – a place where Orient meets Occident in the heart of the Balkans. The coexistence of the religions highlights the cordial nature and charm of the Bosnians which you too can experience.

Take a stroll around the lively Baščaršija area, the bustling Old Town of Sarajevo. Sitting in the heart of the old town, full of character and culture, try the traditional Bosnian coffee, eat the fresh Cevapi and Burek - an experience not to be missed. Admire the 15th century architecture as you walk in the footsteps of the locals and enjoy a glimpse into local life as you see families and friends getting together after work and school.

Visit Sarajevo’s largest Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, built in 1532 and hear the call to prayer in the atmosphere of the old town. Be sure to take a trip to the well-known Sebilj Fountain, which has been the meeting point for locals since the 15th century - it gives you an incredible old world feel.

Explore the corners and alleys of Bezistan, a historic covered market built around 1540 during the Ottoman period where textiles were once traded under its intricate architecture.

Take a ride on the Sarajevo Cable Car and enjoy breathtaking views as you glide from the heart of the Old Town to the peaceful forests of Mount Trebević in just 9 minutes. Originally opened in 1959 and lovingly rebuilt in 2018, this colourful cable car is more than just transport – it’s a journey through history. At the top, explore scenic walking trails, discover the 1984 Olympic bobsleigh track, and soak up the fresh mountain air. A must-do experience for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking to see Sarajevo from a new perspective.

Enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the city and enjoy a meal sky high in the Avaz Twist Tower and witness the magnificent building of the National Library, repaired to its former glory after being destroyed during the war.

Learn about the Bosnian War and the role of the Tunnel of Hope (Tunel Spasa) in Ilidža, constructed during the Siege of Sarajevo. It was the only link between the city - which was otherwise entirely cut off - and the rest of the world. It is the tunnel that kept wartime Sarajevo alive.

Pay a visit to the grave of the “Wise King”, Alija Izetbegović, first President of the newly-independent Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who led the Bosnians during the Bosnian War.

Explore the Sarajevo Town Hall, an icon of the diversity of Bosnia - the beautiful Moorish style building takes inspiration and stays true to the Muslim heritage in Bosnia, although it was built during the Austro-Hungarian occupation. It is now a monument to the world's civilisations and represents unity and hope for the East and the West.

Visit the Latin Bridge, an Ottoman bridge over the river Miljacka, and the site of the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria in 1914, which provoked World War I.

A 2 hour and 30 min drive from Sarajevo, Srebrenica is home to the Srebrenica Genocide Memorial, officially known as the Srebrenica–Potočari Memorial and Cemetery for the Victims of the 1995 Genocide. It was set up to honour the more than 8,372 victims of the 1995 Srebrenica genocide, mostly male Bosnians.

Delicious Sarajevan cuisine and authentic stores

There is nothing more rewarding on holiday than being able to contribute to the small businesses of the locals. Visit the Ministry of Cejf in the Old City, offering mouth-watering breakfast and aesthetic Instagram-worthy coffee art. Take a trip to the artisan boutique of Bazerdzan, with handmade products and home décor to take home as gifts and souvenirs. Have a satisfying dinner at Metropolis, where you can enjoy all your classic pizzas, pastas, specialist coffees and desserts all in one setting.

Where to stay in Sarajevo

Malak Regency Hotel - Enjoy mountain views from this comfortable hotel, which is ideally located to explore Sarajevo. Alcohol-free, serving only halal food, its spa and indoor pool are open to women-only at set times.

Pino Nature Hotel - A breath-taking setting, amidst pristine mountain scenery yet within easy reach of Old Sarajevo. An idyllic alcohol-free and halal-certified retreat with a spa, its indoor pool is open to women-only at set times, it serves only halal food and is ideal for families.

Villa Glamour - This 4-bedroom villa offers contemporary luxury with a private fully-secluded indoor pool, jacuzzi, sauna and fitness room. It offers complete privacy and stunning views of Sarajevo from its terrace.

Villa Rose - A stylish 4-bedroom villa offering private, fully-secluded indoor swimming pool, sauna, jacuzzi and fitness room. Its garden, facilities and spacious accommodation are ideal for larger families.

Pocitelj

En route to the warmer climate of Mostar, you will find the hidden treasure of Pocitelj in Capljina, the preserved ruins of a 500 year old Ottoman village. This open-air Museum overlooks the Neretva river, and is known for its restored castle - all which makes up a UNESCO heritage site. Visit for a flashback in time to the world of the past.

Mostar, the most charming city in in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Discover the charming historic city of Mostar and experience its local atmosphere in the Old Bazaar, dating back to the Ottoman era in the 16th Century. Enjoy the vitality of the workshops, the little restaurants, where you can taste excellent traditional dishes, and the crowded cafes. Fulfil your Islamic duty of salah in the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, with stunning views of the river and nature. There is nothing more peaceful than hearing the Adhan whilst walking in the halls of this ancient small 17th century mosque.

Lastly, take a trip to the Tekija Blagaj, a dervish monastery set at the base of cliffs looking on to the striking Mostar azure waters from the Neretva River. This tranquil setting was created during the Ottoman rule and looks almost the same as it did back then. You can even take a trip in a small boat and explore the cave nearby.

Where to stay in Mostar

Hotel & Spa Meydan - Centrally located, just steps from popular attractions, this alcohol-free spa-hotel serves halal food only. It offers a mixed indoor pool and spa centre, as well as spa facilities for private hire.

Hotel Emen - Centrally located just steps from popular attractions, this hotel serves exclusively halal food. Guests especially appreciate its prime location, comfort, and great value for money.

Bosnia & Herzegovina’s natural beauty

Bosnia & Herzegovina is blessed with a lush natural environment, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, caving and bird-watching. You will be enchanted by the National Parks such as Vrelo Bosne or Sutjeska, which has one of the two last primaeval forests in Europe. Rivers give birth to magnificent waterfalls, the most famous being the Kravice Waterfall near to Mostar.

Bosnia & Herzegovina's most beautiful Ottoman Bridges

The Ottoman bridges in Bosnia and Herzegovina are authentic architectural masterpieces, which are remarkable due to their massive pillars, pointed arches, and circular openings. The UNESCO-listed Stari Most is one of the most important pieces of Islamic architecture in the Balkans and the connection between the two parts of the city across the river Neretva. The city and its bridge were rebuilt after being destroyed during the Bosnian war.

Explore the legends that surround the Šeher Ćehaja Bridge which joins Sarajevo across the River Miljacka. One legend tells the tale of how the bridge was apparently built with a diamond inserted in the exterior. The diamond then went missing shortly after it was built, and it was found by the police: a young man had stolen it to propose to his girlfriend. The judge who heard the story pardoned the man but the diamond was never replaced.

If you visit in the summer months, you will get the chance to appreciate the locals taking a dive from the iconic bridge into the shimmering water below.

Best time to visit Bosnia & Herzegovina

The weather in Bosnia and Herzegovina varies across the country. The best time to visit for ideal warm weather is around April to August where in the peak of summer, temperatures can reach up to around 30°C. The countryside of the country is blooming with wild flowers, and people start to come out after sheltering from the cold winter breaks.

For any skiers interested in a winter break, the mountainous regions of Bosnia experience a lot of snow perfect for skiing from January to March, on the mountains of Bjelašnica, Igman and Jahorina. For more information, read through our dedicated blog article: Why choose a halal-friendly ski resort.

How to get around in Bosnia & Herzegovina

Getting around in Bosnia and Herzegovina is easy with various transportation options. Buses are the most common mode of transport, connecting cities and towns, while trains offer a scenic but less frequent option for travel between major cities. Renting a car provides flexibility, especially for exploring rural areas and national parks, while taxis are available in cities like Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka, with ride-hailing apps like Bolt also operating in some areas. Trams and trolleybuses are popular for getting around Sarajevo, and private transfers can be arranged for convenience. Bicycles are a great option for exploring cities or scenic routes, and walking is ideal for exploring the historic centres of cities.

Thinking of hitting the road? Check out our dedicated article: Road Trips with Halalbooking: Bosnia & Herzegovina.