Road Trips in Bosnia & Hercegovina

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Its fragrant bazaars, lively city streets, and beautiful architecture will stay the travelers for a long time. The most notable highlights include the Old Town, the Latin Bridge, and the Jewish Museum. The amiable residents of the capital top up the whole sightseeing experience.

Bosnia is full of beautiful small towns and vibrant cities that will bring you closer to the country’s culture. Travel to Travnik and enjoy its medieval architecture with an imposing castle, visit Jajce with its charming waterfall, and check out Bihac for some local cuisine.

The far south of the country is occupied by Herzegovina. Here, you’ll have an opportunity to try some of the outdoor activities around the natural jewels dotting the pristine landscape. Try cycling, trekking, or canoeing and combine some fun with admiring the diversity of vistas around you. Among the most interesting urban jewels in the region, you’ll find Medjugorie, which is a popular pilgrimage place, Mostar, with its stunning Old Town and beautiful Ottoman bridges, and Blagaj, where you will experience some more tranquillity.

For the lovers of skiing, it’s recommended to try Jahorina, which was a host of the Winter Olympics. The picturesque panoramas and top-notch winter infrastructure will satisfy even the most demanding skiing and snowboarding fans.

One of the most neglected places in Bosnia and Herzegovina travel-wise is the Republika Srpska Region. Here, you’ll be surprised by the gentle slopes, calm towns, and Ottoman edifices that will take you back in time. Try a trip to Banja Luka to encompass local cuisine and traditions.

Suggested Road Trips in Bosnia & Hercegovina

• Sarajevo to Mostar: This road trip takes you from the capital city of Sarajevo to the charming town of Mostar, known for its iconic Ottoman bridge, the Stari Most. The drive takes you through picturesque countryside and rolling hills, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Along the way, you can stop to visit the medieval fortress at Bobovac and the impressive Kravice Falls.

• Bihać to Plitvice Lakes National Park: This road trip takes you from the charming town of Bihać to one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the region, the Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. The drive takes you through lush forests and rolling hills, with opportunities to stop and explore charming small towns and villages along the way. Once you arrive at the Plitvice Lakes, you can spend the day exploring the park's stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.

• Herzegovina Wine Route: This road trip takes you through the heart of Herzegovina, the country's wine-producing region. The drive takes you through picturesque countryside dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and charming villages. Along the way, you can stop to sample some of the region's famous wines, learn about the local wine-making tradition, and visit historical landmarks like the medieval fortress at Pocitelj and the impressive Aladza Mosque in Foča.

These are just a few of the many road trip options available in Bosnia and Herzegovina, a country that offers a rich combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. Whether you're interested in exploring the country's stunning waterfalls, charming small towns, or rich wine-making traditions, a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina is sure to be a memorable experience.

Bosnia and Herzegovina can boast a diversity of road surfaces. These less well-maintained are pretty rough, especially for the less experienced drivers. The greatest danger on these roads are uneven surfaces, bumps, and stray animals. That’s why it’s best to avoid driving at night. Regardless of whether you are driving your own car or a rented vehicle, it’s also advisable to stay extra cautious as Bosnian drivers are known for careless behaviour on the road. 

Don’t worry, the driving conditions in most areas are similar to the ones prevailing in other European countries. You need to stick to the right side of the road and overtake other vehicles on the left. What’s more, avoid using horn in built-up areas unless there’s an emergency situation that you want to prevent. 

The age restrictions aren’t that different from other European countries as well. You need to be 18 years old in order to drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina; however, some car rental companies may require you to be a little older. Don’t be surprised if you are asked to pay an additional fee for being an inexperienced motorist.

Both drinking and driving and driving and texting may result in heavy fines. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, you’ll be considered to be under the influence of alcohol with a level of blood alcohol of 0.03% or higher. That’s why it is best to avoid drinking anything alcoholic before hitting the road as even a small amount will take you beyond the limit. When it comes to mobile phones, always use a hands-free device to avoid severe penalties. 

It is also forbidden to use any devices that might detect speed cameras and speed traps. You may be charged with high fines and your device will be confiscated.

While travelling around Bosnian roads, it’s important to carry the following documents: your driver’s licence, ID or passport, registration documents, and a proof of insurance. 

The obligatory equipment required by law in Bosnia and Herzegovina includes: spare bulbs, a first aid kit, w towing line, two warning triangles, and a reflective vest.

Just like in any European country, you’ll be charged with high penalties for speeding in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The simplest way to avoid them is to stick to the prevailing speed limits: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 80 km/h in rural areas, 100 km/h on expressways, and 130 km/h on highways. While driving near schools and residential areas, you’ll be obliged to reduce your speed to what’s indicated on the road signs.

When taking a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it's important to consider a few things to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Plan your route: Make sure to plan your route in advance, taking into consideration the road conditions and any road closures or detours. It's also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of any unexpected events.

• Check the weather: Bosnia and Herzegovina can have unpredictable weather, especially in the mountain areas. Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

• Get a good map: A good map can be essential when exploring the countryside, especially if you're driving in rural areas where GPS signals may not be reliable.

• Drive carefully: The roads in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be narrow and winding, so it's important to drive carefully and be mindful of other drivers on the road. Make sure to obey all traffic rules and signs.

• Respect local customs: Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with a rich cultural heritage, so it's important to respect local customs and traditions when you're on your road trip.

• Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure to have a basic first-aid kit and a spare tire in case of emergencies. It's also a good idea to carry a fully charged mobile phone and a power bank.

• Enjoy the journey: Finally, remember to take your time and enjoy the journey. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture, so take advantage of the opportunity to explore and learn more about this fascinating part of the world.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina depends on your personal preferences and what you hope to experience on your trip. Here are a few things to consider:

• Summer: June to August is the warmest and driest time of year in Bosnia and Herzegovina, making it a good time for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and picnicking. This is also a popular time for road trips, as the weather is generally pleasant and the roads are in good condition.

• Spring: April and May are the best months for road trips in Bosnia and Herzegovina if you're looking to see the country's famous cherry blossom orchards and vineyards in full bloom. This is also a great time to visit the country's waterfalls, as the water levels are high from the spring rains.

• Autumn: September and October are great months for road trips in Bosnia and Herzegovina if you're interested in the country's autumn foliage. This is also a good time to visit the country's vineyards, as the grapes are being harvested.

• Winter: Although winter can be cold and snowy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it can also be a magical time to visit, especially if you're interested in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Some roads may be closed due to snow, so it's important to check conditions in advance.

No matter what time of year you choose, a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina is sure to be a memorable experience. Just be prepared for the weather and bring the right gear, and you're sure to have a great time exploring this beautiful country.

Bosnia and Herzegovina can be a relatively affordable destination for a road trip, depending on your travel style and preferences. The cost of a day, week, or month per person on a road trip can vary widely, depending on factors such as accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

For budget travelers, it is possible to get by on around $30-50 USD per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $50-100 USD per day, and luxury travelers may spend upwards of $150 USD per day.

Accommodation in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be quite affordable, with budget hostels and guesthouses available for as little as $10-15 USD per night. Mid-range hotels and guesthouses typically range from $30-50 USD per night, while luxury hotels and resorts can cost upwards of $100 USD per night.

Food in Bosnia and Herzegovina is also relatively affordable, with local restaurants and cafes serving up hearty and delicious meals for just a few dollars per dish. Street food and fast food options are also widely available and can be a good choice for budget-conscious travelers.

As for transportation, renting a car in Bosnia and Herzegovina can cost around $20-40 USD per day, depending on the type of car and rental company. However, public transportation in the country is also quite good, with buses and trains connecting major cities and towns.

Overall, Bosnia and Herzegovina can be an affordable destination for a road trip, especially for budget and mid-range travelers. However, it is important to do your research and budget accordingly based on your individual travel style and preferences.

Please note that these are just rough estimates and prices can vary depending on the season, location, and other factors. It is always best to do your own research and plan your trip accordingly.

here are some recommended guidebooks and road maps for a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• Lonely Planet Bosnia and Herzegovina: This comprehensive guidebook includes detailed information about the country's history, culture, and attractions. It also includes practical information about transportation, accommodations, and dining options.

• Bradt Travel Guide Bosnia and Herzegovina: This guidebook offers in-depth coverage of Bosnia and Herzegovina's lesser-known destinations, as well as detailed information about the country's history, culture, and natural wonders.

• National Geographic Road Atlas - Adventure Edition: This road atlas is perfect for a road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with detailed maps of the country's major highways and scenic routes. It also includes information about national parks, wildlife refuges, and other outdoor attractions.

• Michelin Bosnia and Herzegovina Map: This detailed map covers the entire country and includes information about major cities, highways, and tourist attractions. It's an essential tool for any road trip in Bosnia and Herzegovina.