Routes from Bosnia and Herzegovina women's portal. How to get to bosnia and herzegovina. Souvenirs from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country with an amazing name (you can read about the origin of it). It contains no less amazing things and undoubtedly leaves no one indifferent. This is a country of contrasts, and after a little research I realized that the history of Bosnia and Herzegovina confirms this. The state, which was once under both the Ottoman Empire and Austria-Hungary, could not help but absorb both European and typically Eastern features. Now Bosnia and Herzegovina is a federal state inhabited by as many as three different peoples. It is the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina - Serbs, Bosniaks and Croats - that makes it so different, but at the same time incredibly interesting for a tourist who has visited an already huge number of countries and doubts that anything can cause him such an unexpected " Wow"!

Unfortunately, many, having heard the name of this beautiful country, wonder where Bosnia and Herzegovina is located. I answer: this is a state located on the Balkan Peninsula, which was part of Yugoslavia until 1992. Now it is an independent country, which consists of three parts: the Republika Srpska, the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Brcko district. The first is inhabited mainly by Serbs, the second by Bosniaks and Croats, and the third by all three peoples.

Both the flag and the country’s coat of arms are similar: a yellow triangle on a blue background and a row of five-pointed stars in addition (you can read about the history of the flag of Bosnia and Herzegovina ).

Visa and border crossing

Citizens of the Russian Federation do not require a visa to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina. But it is worth mentioning that you can stay on the territory as a tourist for a maximum of 30 days. If you want to extend your visit, you will still have to apply for a visa. This can be done through the Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which is located in Moscow. Unfortunately, I personally did not spend more than 30 days there, so I cannot give advice on obtaining a Bosnian visa.
To cross the border, you need to have with you not only a valid passport, but also medical insurance, as well as a return ticket, although you may not be asked for the latter. Personally, I am not aware of any cases where someone was denied entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina, although I have flown and traveled there more than once, so there should be no problems at the border. Almost every time I fly to Bosnia and Herzegovina, the document verification procedure takes a couple of minutes, after which I set off further to cross the expanses of this seemingly small, but such an immense country.

How to get there

Since Bosnia and Herzegovina is a rather large country, first you need to decide which cities and parts of it you want to visit. This is the decisive factor in the question of how to get to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Every time I think about my trip, I try to understand how to get to this or that city more conveniently.

Top cities

Having first come up with the idea of ​​going to Bosnia and Herzegovina, any tourist (just like me at one time) will wonder what cities there are in this country and which of them are worth visiting first.

I have my own must-see list of cities:

• - the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Coming there and not visiting the capital is like coming to and not visiting Times Square. The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand took place here in 1914, which was the reason for the outbreak of the First World War. By the way, there is a museum in the city dedicated to this event. Personally, I love coming to the old town – Bascarsiju – it feels like you are not in a Balkan country, but in Istanbul. Here you can also try Turkish coffee, which, by the way, is drunk in incredible quantities in the Balkans and without which not a single visit is complete. Along with the coffee served in the cezve, you will also be served Turkish delight. Don't limit yourself to this and order some of the Turkish sweets, which are simply amazing here. When I come to Sarajevo, I forget words like diet and proper nutrition, because it’s all worth trying. Where else if not on vacation in ? By the way, all this is very inexpensive by European standards.

• Mostar is another city in Bosnia and Herzegovina where traces of the Ottoman Empire are ubiquitous. The main thing to visit in Mostar is the old town with a magnificent bridge, from where, by the way, every year daredevils jump into the blue waters of the Neretva River. I personally was shocked. Indeed, once there, there is a great desire to swim in this clean river, but usually the water turns out to be too cold.

• is a small town on the outskirts of Bosnia and Herzegovina, which can be easily reached from neighboring countries - Montenegro and Croatia. In this city you can enjoy narrow streets, beautiful churches, drink coffee in the shade of old plane trees and just take a walk in good weather. By the way, I highly recommend climbing Hercegovacku Gracanicu, which offers a stunning panorama of the entire city. This is where you can take hundreds of photos for the whole year ahead and then show them off to your Instagram followers.

• Jahorina is a ski resort in Bosnia and Herzegovina. When I want to go skiing on a budget in winter and enjoy my vacation to the fullest, I buy tickets and fly here - a oh-so-cool resort for those who want to cut through the snowy slopes without spending several salaries.

If you prefer to stay in private apartments rather than hotels, you can check out the apartment rental offers in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Top attractions

• The Old Town, or rather the Old Bridge in Mostar. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is truly mesmerizing. I don’t recommend jumping from the bridge (if you are not a professional in diving, the chances of injuring yourself are very high), but taking a walk and taking a photo under it with its background is a must.

• Vjetrenica is a fascinating cave in the south of the country, a visit to which is a must for all lovers of the unusual. I had never been to any cave before, so I experienced a lot of emotions when I arrived at this place. But remember – it’s cold inside, take warm clothes, even if it’s +30 outside.

• Blagaj is another place that will be imprinted in the memory of any tourist. The green-blue waters of the river that flows in this town invite you to take a swim. However, the strong current forces you to stand on the shore and enjoy these beauties only visually.

• Bridge in the city of Visegrad. The second of two UNESCO monuments. The bridge thanks to which the famous Serbian writer Ivo Andric received the Nobel Prize in Literature. A favorite place for locals. Indeed, the bridge is impressive, and the views that open from it will not leave anyone indifferent.

• Tvrdos Monastery is a beautiful monastery located near the city. When we accidentally stopped there on the way to Mostar, we were pleasantly surprised. The green area does not allow you to leave without enjoying the fresh air in the shade of the trees, and the wine cellars, which can also be visited, will not allow you to leave without a couple of bottles of delicious local wine.

• Kravice Waterfall is a waterfall that, when I saw it, I couldn’t recover from delight for a long time. Is nature really capable of this? The spectacle is simply amazing, it's worth seeing. By the way, here for special extreme sports fans there is the opportunity to take a specially trained person and ride a canoe with him.

Weather

Weather conditions in Bosnia and Herzegovina are conducive to traveling around the country all year round. Naturally, it all depends on what city you are going to stay in, but generally you won’t find harsh winters here with temperatures of 30 degrees below zero.
In northern cities, it is naturally colder, and in winter it is worth warming up when going on a trip. Unlike Moscow, winter in Bosnia and Herzegovina may seem harsher, despite the fact that the thermometer does not seem to show severe frost. However, Bosnia and Herzegovina is very windy, which makes it difficult to enjoy relatively warm winters. Therefore, do not go outside without a scarf and hat, despite the thermometer.
Summer here is hot and 30 degrees Celsius is quite common weather. So get ready for it to be hot. It was a pleasant surprise for me to discover city outdoor pools in which residents while away hot days, not being able to go to the sea. Feel free to go there and spend time sunbathing by the pool. Entrance to such pools is usually either free or costs symbolic money - approximately 2-3 euros (3-5 KM).
The best time to travel around the country is the end of April-May. It's warm, but not hot, and all the vegetation is starting to bloom. A great opportunity to travel to all the interesting places without languishing in the heat or cold.

Money

The national currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is the convertible mark (for convenience - KM). The most convenient way to compare prices is with euros; you just need to divide by two. 1 Euro is equal to approximately 1.95 KM.

By the way, an interesting fact is that different parts of the country have different banknotes. No, of course, they will accept them anywhere, but the pictures on the money may differ. Please note: in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska, different personalities are depicted on banknotes.

So, you came to the country with rubles/euros/dollars. Where can I change it? There are exchange offices in the country, they are called Mjenjacnica. Feel free to go there and perform the necessary operations. The rate, in principle, is the same everywhere, so there is no difference whether you change it at a bank or at an exchange office.

Naturally, rubles will not be accepted from you anywhere. You may even be asked what kind of money it is and whether you can see it, but you won’t be able to pay for a purchase or dinner with it. Dollars are also not valid in the country; they need to be exchanged for KM.

The situation with the euro is slightly different. If you are in the south of the country (for example, in Trebinje), in many places you can pay with euros (but only with banknotes, coins are not accepted, this is important! I asked local residents what this is connected with, but, unfortunately, I never found out the correct answer. Perhaps it is not always possible to exchange coins for local currency in banks, so it is not profitable for cafe and store owners to take that kind of money). Most often they calculate it by rounding it as 1 to 2 (for 1 euro you get 2 KM). But as soon as you drive just 50 km from the city, no one will agree to accept your money. I personally once found myself in an awkward situation when trying to pay in euros for a purchase in a store in Mostar. They looked at me like I was crazy and sent me to a local exchange office. So don’t even try, they won’t take it, despite your persuasion.

I know that many people prefer to travel without cash, using only bank cards, they say, the money can be stolen and you will have to carry change in your pockets. In Bosnia and Herzegovina this approach is not very correct. Bank cards are not accepted everywhere, especially in small towns. Locals, it seemed to me, rarely use them at all, preferring cash. Yes, in large shopping centers you can pay by card, but in cozy small cafes and bakeries you may be refused. Therefore, I advise you to have at least a minimum of cash (for food, transport) in order to reach the nearest ATM and withdraw money. A few words about ATMs: naturally, they charge a commission, but your bank card currency is unlikely to be a convertible mark. It is in your interests to use a euro card rather than a ruble one, because the commission will be significantly lower.

Moving around the country

So, you have arrived in Bosnia and Herzegovina and are wondering what to do now, how to get to neighboring cities, how to see the country in general. There are several ways to get around Bosnia and Herzegovina:

1. By bus. The cheapest, but not the most convenient and fastest. Buses travel regularly, most often they are good, new vehicles, but there are also those without air conditioning (in the summer, you still don’t want to spend a couple of hours on a stuffy bus). You can come to Autobuska stanica (the main bus stop from where transport departs to other cities) and there you will see what you will have to ride. But for budget travel, you won't find a better or cheaper way to get around the country. For example, from (the capital of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina) to the city of Banja Luka (the capital of Republika Srpska) you can get by bus for only 15 euros (29 KM), which, you see, is not so much, considering that you have to travel a long distance more than 200 km.
   
2. By taxi. I advise using the services of taxi drivers only within the city limits and traveling only in official taxis. Often these cars are not marked with anything and there is no “TAXI” sign on them. How can you tell if it's a taxi? Usually they stand in certain places with 10-15 cars and operate on a first-come, first-served basis: you get into the first car and drive off. It is very convenient to travel within the city by taxi and quite cheap. For the trip you will pay about 3-5 euros (depending on the city you are in). But traveling across the country by taxi is expensive, so not everyone can afford to spend a lot of money just to get from one place to another.
   
3. By rented car. This is my favorite way. Yes, you can get from city to city by bus, but you won’t be able to enjoy the road, you won’t be able to stop at a roadside cafe to drink a glass of lemonade on a hot summer day, you won’t be able to see places that are not in the city center, and in the suburbs or even in villages, where no public transport goes. The only problem is expensive gasoline (compared to Moscow). Therefore, if you are the lucky owner of a driver’s license (by the way, according to the Vienna Convention on Road Traffic of 1968, you can drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina, having only a Russian license with you, but in fact, not all police officers know about the existence of this document, so I advise you all -carry an international driver’s license with you so as not to waste time and nerves), feel free to rent a car. Prices here are practically no different from all-European prices. That is, you will have to pay 50 euros per day or more, depending on which car you prefer (with a manual transmission or automatic, whether it is a simple Opel or a brand new Mercedes). For example, in the travelask section you can see prices for different brands of cars and what is included in the rental price. Just be sure to make sure that the place where you rent a car has all the necessary documents (a license, for example) and, when concluding an agreement, make sure that in the event of an accident you will not have to cover all the costs. By the way, different companies have different rules, but most often a car is issued to those who are over 21 years old and have more than 2 years of driving experience, but again there may be slightly different conditions. Therefore, in order not to waste time, it is better to read about this in advance on the website of the company where you are going to rent a car.
   
4. To hitchhike. In my opinion, the most dangerous way. I personally never travel like that, especially alone. Still, you don’t know the language (and even if you do, your safety is not guaranteed), you don’t know anyone to whom you could turn for help. Don’t take unnecessary risks and better hit the road on an inexpensive bus.
   
5. There is no metro here and never has been.
6. In large cities (for example) there are trams and buses on which you can move around the city. Very convenient, safe and cheap. Costs about 1 euro. Buy a ticket on the transport itself or at kiosks. In small towns this is not the case, since almost any place can be reached on foot.
   

Connection

What does a modern person need, besides basic necessities? Of course, the Internet, without which, unfortunately, we cannot function normally even on vacation. Anyone who has ever been to Germany, for example, knows that not only is it free, it’s just that wi-fi is hard to find in public places, and in hotels you have to pay for it.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, things are much better with this! Rejoice, internet addicts. In almost all cafes and restaurants you can find an open network, which, by the way, is fast enough to easily check email and social networks.

As for hotels, almost any Internet service is provided free of charge and by default. The main thing is not to stay in your room all day because of this advantage. So, despite the available wi-fi, it’s better to walk around the city.

By the way, if suddenly the network is password protected, ask the waiter for the password. It is often written on the bottom of checks in small letters, since in some places the generator changes the password every day. So pay attention to this.

In general, there should be no problems with the Internet. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you suddenly have connection problems. A passport for connecting in public places, like any identity document, is not required. I have never encountered such a network in Bosnia and Herzegovina that asked for any personal data.

Naturally, you will have to contact friends, family or colleagues in Russia at least a couple of times. I advise you to use the Internet for these purposes, since you will not find a cheaper method of communication. Calling from local SIM cards (I’m not talking about calls from Russian numbers at all) is very expensive! The money is written off in just a couple of seconds, so use wi-fi.

Language and communication

If you open a geography textbook or just a website on the Internet with general information about Bosnia and Herzegovina, you will see that in the column “language of Bosnia and Herzegovina” it is most often written: Bosnian, Serbian, Croatian. I would be very confused by such information. How to communicate with locals? Is it really necessary to learn as many as three languages ​​in order to live in Bosnia and Herzegovina without experiencing translation difficulties? Don't worry, everything is not as scary as it might seem at first glance.

During the existence of Yugoslavia, all the peoples now living in the territory of Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro spoke the same language - Serbo-Croatian or Croatian-Serbian. It’s just that there were different dialects and dialects in different parts of the state. After the collapse of Yugoslavia, each part decided to separate itself and introduce its own national language: Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian and Montenegrin. In reality, everyone understands each other and communicates calmly without learning anything new. Yes, some words may differ (it’s like British English and American English, in which an apartment is flat or apartment depending on the country), but in general everything is clear.

The language is very similar to Russian, so in 70% of cases you will understand the main idea of ​​your interlocutor without a translator. But don't expect to speak Bosnian/Serbian/Croatian right away. This is unlikely, the grammar is still complex, and without studying it with a teacher, it is almost impossible to master the language.

The further south and closer to the borders with Croatia and Montenegro, the more people understand Russian; the development of tourism motivates the population to learn the language. Therefore, in some parts of the country you won’t have to worry about translation, they will help you.

As for the English language, it is not spoken everywhere. In the capital - yes, in small towns most often they will not understand you. Of course, English is taught in schools, but so far not all employers require knowledge of English when hiring.

In order to avoid getting into trouble and at the same time earn the attention and sympathy of the locals (after all, they love it when foreigners at least try to say something in their native language), I advise you to learn some phrases that will be useful to you in any case.

So, let's begin:

1. Cao = Hello. You will hear "ciao" a hundred times a day. Locals always say hello and goodbye this way, no matter who they are dealing with. Feel free to say “ciao” when entering a store/cafe/museum.
2. Zdravo=- Hello. If “ciao” seems like a rather informal greeting to you, you can say “sensibly.” But it’s not worth saying goodbye with this word, unlike the previous one. Use it only when greeting.
3. What? [kako ste] = How are you doing? It's always better to start a conversation with a small conversation "about nothing." If you are suddenly asked this question, it will be enough to answer with the following phrase.
4. Good, thank you. [good, praise] = Okay, thank you. There is no point in delving into your problems, especially since you are unlikely to have enough words to continue an interesting conversation.
5. Koliko kosta karta do...? [koliko kosta card do] = How much does a ticket cost to..? A useful phrase for buying tickets at a bus stop.
6. Know li, kako da dodjem do..? [do you know how to do dodgem do] = Do you know how to get to..? If you are lost in the city or simply don’t know which way to go, ask a passerby.
7. Imate li...? [imate li] = Do you have...? How often do we go to the same grocery store while abroad and cannot find the product we need because everything is written in the local language. With this phrase you can buy everything you need.
8. Can I dobiti racun? [can I finish off the Rachun] = Can I have the bill? In restaurants and cafes you will definitely need this phrase. By the way, don’t be surprised if the waiter gives you the bill and “stands over it” waiting for you to pay. This is normal, most often there are no special envelopes for paying for dinner/lunch.
9. Hvala-Molim [praise-pray] = Thank you - Please. Be polite. Always say thank you in the local language.
10. Gdje mogu da rucam? [where I can and rucham] = Where can I have lunch? Sometimes you walk around the city and don’t have time to go to a restaurant that friends and acquaintances recommended. Passers-by will come to the rescue, who, like no one else, know where the food is fresh and tasty in the area.

Don't be afraid to use phrases from Serbian/Bosnian/Croatian. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone understands that you are not a local, but when you try to please the residents of the city, then the chances of getting some kind of secret recommendation from them are very high.

Features of mentality

What can I say about the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina? They are very hospitable. Don't be surprised if someone you just met invites you over for a cup of coffee. A cup of coffee most often also means a full meal, so don’t be alarmed, but feel free to agree. At the same time, you will practice the language if you are suddenly trying to learn it.

I noticed that the locals really like to drink. It is quite possible to meet a man sipping beer on a hot day at work. Here no one waits for the evening to drink a few glasses of wine. By the way, sometimes after a couple of drinks locals calmly get behind the wheel and drive home. Naturally, this is punishable by law and very unsafe, so I advise you to be extremely vigilant if you catch passing cars. You don't want to drive with a drunk driver, do you?

The residents are very responsive. If they see that you need help, they will definitely try to make your life easier. Be smiling, just like them, and your trip will be entirely positive.

Locals are never in a hurry. Walk around the city in the middle of the work week, despite a lot of things to do? Easily. Therefore, do not run like a late Muscovite along the escalator in the metro, enjoy the moment, devote yourself to relaxation. This can be learned from the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Food and drink

When I first went to Bosnia and Herzegovina, I had no idea what food and drink there was worth trying. Everyone knows about Italian, Japanese, American, Russian cuisine, no matter who you ask. But what do we know about the cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina? What do they eat there? I think if you conduct a survey among ordinary passers-by, few will answer this question.

It turns out that signature dishes again depend on what part of the country you are in. Bosniaks, Serbs and Croats have different national dishes, so it’s difficult to recommend what to try in general, but there are such dishes.

In general, food in Bosnia and Herzegovina is simple, but very fatty and high in calories. Therefore, forget about diets. A lot, no, a LOT of dough and meat. And, of course, you can’t do without sweets, which are incredibly delicious there.

When it comes to drinks, wine is a favorite here. And they make it themselves in the southern part of the country. Many families even have their own wineries! Therefore, I advise you to buy local and enjoy it.

Rakia is also made there in the country - a very strong alcohol that not everyone will like. Especially girls.

But do not forget that in the capital, for example, there is a large Muslim population who do not drink. Therefore, there are places where you cannot order alcoholic drinks: only coffee, water and juices.

Coffee is a different story. Here everyone drinks it everywhere. I especially like how it’s served: in Turk and with Turkish delight. You can also order Turkish, that is, excuse me, Bosnian sweets to go with it. How can you resist here?!

By the way, don't be afraid to buy food on the street! Fresh products are used everywhere here, so the chances of getting poisoned or infected are low. The meat in street stalls is really natural and normal, feel free to take it. For example, I love eating baked chicken, which is cooked right in vans in the middle of the road. Real jam. One of these vans can be found on the way from Mostar to Trebinje. If you happen to be there and see this place, be sure to stop and have a snack there.

Shopping

Vacation with children

Is it convenient to holiday in Bosnia and Herzegovina with children? Why not? If your child is ready to take walking tours around the city with you, eat in cafes and restaurants, and travel around the country by bus, then I don’t see any obstacles to traveling as a family.

Of course, you are unlikely to find a children's menu, children's lounges, or children's chairs in public catering establishments, but the locals will do everything to make your child comfortable. If you ask to cook a dish without adding spices, no one will refuse you. Therefore, I think that the country is quite convenient for traveling with the whole family.

Safety

In general, Bosnia and Herzegovina is very safe and tourists have nothing to fear. But, like in any other country, I wouldn't wear my best with a lot of gold jewelry. You shouldn’t flaunt your money and walk around waving expensive gadgets left and right. As long as you behave modestly, no one will attack you just like that. The crime rate in the country is relatively low.

One very important piece of advice: stay on the roads and never try to enter a natural area where there is a "No Trespassing" sign posted. Since the civil war ended not so long ago, there are a lot of uncleared areas left in the country. Please follow the rules and laws to avoid harming yourself.

5 things you must do in this country

What do you still need to do when you arrive in the surprisingly unexplored country of Bosnia and Herzegovina?

The map below shows that Bosnia and Herzegovina is a relatively large country (well, not compared to Russia, of course, but Montenegro is much smaller). Therefore, first you need to decide which city you are going to from and to which. This is very important, since you can spend only an hour on the road, or you can spend the whole night!

All Balkan countries are very beautiful and are certainly worth visiting if possible.

You can get to Serbia, Croatia and Montenegro from Bosnia and Herzegovina by bus, taxi or rented car. The most affordable option is the bus, and if you can handle intercity bus travel well, feel free to buy a ticket at the local “bus stop” - where all intercity and international buses depart from. In a few hours (depending on which city you want to go to) you will reach your destination. Taxi is the most expensive option, in my opinion. You will have to pay a considerable amount (for example, I paid 100 euros by taking a taxi from the airport to a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and this is only one way!). The most convenient way is to rent a car (just immediately specify the fact that you are going to cross the border in a rented car). This way, you can travel comfortably by car the entire trip and see a lot of interesting things that you can’t get to by bus, much less walk. My advice to you is that if you have the opportunity to rent a car to drive along the narrow roads of Bosnia and Herzegovina and enjoy the beautiful views that this country and those bordering it offer, take this chance.

If you have a lot of free time and wouldn’t mind taking a ride to a neighboring country, be sure to make this wish come true. I would go to the ethno-village, which was built by the famous director Emir Kusturica (by the way, he was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina! If you haven’t watched his films, I recommend it!). The place is called Drvengrad and there you can really relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle (however, 1-2 days is enough, longer will be boring). You can get to the ethno-village, as far as I know, only by car. What is there to do? Walk, breathe fresh mountain air, relax in local restaurants with live music and a glass of delicious homemade wine (by the way, in almost any restaurant in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro you can be served so-called homemade wine. Local winemakers supply alcoholic products of their own production to restaurants. Agree, it’s tasty and sometimes cheaper than the one in bottles). In general, I highly recommend going here, if only to admire the huge portrait of Dostoevsky on one of the wooden houses and see with your own eyes the sign with the inscription “Nikita Mikhalkov Street”.

The country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the Balkans, will delight tourists with beautiful mountain landscapes, a unique flavor, and the opportunity to relax by the sea or go skiing.

As mentioned above, if you are interested in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you no longer need a visa to visit it. Naturally, if you eat for a period not exceeding 30 days. By the way, Ukrainians also do not need to go to Bosnia and Herzegovina if the trip is no more than 30 days.

Financial questions

The currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina is called the convertible mark. Change coins are pfennigs. The exchange rate of the mark against the euro is: 1.9 marks per 1 euro (as of August 2016). It is recommended to exchange currencies only in specialized establishments and institutions:

• banks;
• exchange points;
• at the reception in hotels.

Of course, making an exchange on the street is attractive because it is more profitable, but “money changers” often take advantage of the gullibility of naive tourists in order to deceive them.

After making a currency exchange, the receipt should be carefully placed in your wallet - you will need it when leaving the country when you carry out a reverse exchange operation.

Credit cards are not very common, and therefore it will be quite difficult to pay using a card. It's better to have some extra cash just in case. Although, of course, in Sarajevo itself, as in some large cities, you can pay with a card (if it is Visa and Mastercard), as well as withdraw money from it, in many places.

It is noteworthy that if you are bringing euros with you, you don’t have to carry out the exchange. Because EU currency is happily accepted here – be it hotels or regular shops. But US dollars will most likely have to be changed - they are not accepted so joyfully and not everywhere.

Attractions and entertainment

In a country like Bosnia and Herzegovina there is something for every taste. Starting from natural to architectural and historical.

If we talk about the latter, it is definitely worth highlighting:

• narrow streets ;
• to Sarajevo;
• caravanserai in Sarajevo;
• , listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site;
• numerous temples and mosques;
• church in Trebinje;
• and many others.

The castles of Bosnia and Herzegovina are worth visiting. First of all, these are the Blagaj fortress, the Vranduk fortress and.

If you are interested in what to see in Bosnia and Herzegovina, we recommend visiting the village, where about one million pilgrims come annually from all over Europe and beyond. It was here in 1981 that the Virgin Mary appeared to six local children and communicated with them several times.

The following cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina are required to be visited, if possible:

• and etc.

We have listed the main ones in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but there are many other attractive places in the country. In particular, we are talking about natural attractions.

Nature

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a mountainous country, and therefore the flora and fauna are appropriate. Approximately 40% of the country's total area is covered with forests. They vary depending on the part of the state:

• in the central zone it is predominantly beech forests;
• in the north, oaks and hornbeams dominate;
• in the mountains - fir trees;
• in the southwest, where the climate is close to subtropical, evergreen trees grow.

The fauna will also delight you with its diversity - here you can find in abundance:

• wild boars;
• deer;
• chamois;
• lizards;
• golden eagles;
• herons;
• otters;
• turtles;
• and many others.

Naturally, one cannot help but say a few words about the landscape of this country. The mountains themselves look beautiful, but here they are also interspersed with many rivers. Waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina are quite common, but the most beautiful and large-scale of them is the one that pours into a clear lake.

Culinary traditions

Quite unusual, because it was formed under the influence of several movements and culinary cultures. Meat and vegetables are especially valued here. There are many dishes prepared from:

• pork;
• beef;
• lamb

Vegetables are added to almost all dishes - they can be used as a side dish, or as just a small decoration, or as a salad.

Residents of the country love a variety of dairy products. Fish is also held in high esteem, but most of it comes from rivers, since the narrow access to the sea does not allow for the full establishment of sea fishing. Bakery products of various types are presented in abundance on the tables.

Among drinks, black coffee reigns supreme. Alcohol – rakya, millet tincture or local wine, very tasty and unusual, with a special bouquet.

Sweets are mainly of Turkish origin - halva, baklava, puff pastry cookies, etc. As you can see, the food in Bosnia and Herzegovina is varied and original, so it is definitely recommended to try the local cuisine to fully experience the flavor of the country.

Climate

If you are attracted to Bosnia and Herzegovina, remember that the weather here is influenced by a temperate, continental climate. In summer the temperature remains cool and pleasant:

• on average about +27 degrees in low-lying areas;
• ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius in the mountains.

In winter, the thermometer shows about +5...+10 degrees, but in the mountains it is much colder and there is heavy snowfall. Which contributes to a full ski season.

Based on the above, we can conclude that the ideal time to visit the country will be:

• May, summer months and early September if you want to enjoy nature and the sea;
• winter months if you go to ski resorts.

Souvenirs

Those who are traveling to the country for the first time are interested in... We recommend purchasing ceramic products, not necessarily functional ones - beautiful, decorative plates are also in demand, which can become a real decoration for any kitchen, regardless of the style in which it is decorated.

If you don’t know what to bring from Bosnia and Herzegovina as souvenirs for your family and friends, we recommend buying:

• home textiles, towels;
• small carpets;
• copper products, jewelry plated with real silver;
• leather clothes.

All this is considered folk craft and many things are works of art. You can also buy for souvenirs:

• local wines - they are very tasty, although not very well known in Europe;
• alcoholic drink rakija.

But be careful in the markets - traders quickly determine whether tourists are in front of them or not. For travelers, the cost of goods is often infinitely inflated.

You can also buy souvenirs in regular stores. There are a lot of them on city streets and they work from morning until night. Regular, “standard” stores open their doors at 9 am and close at 8 pm.

Other features of Bosnia and Herzegovina

In a separate article we will briefly talk about Bosnia and Herzegovina, and in this section we will provide some more useful information.

Despite the fact that the war ended relatively long ago, and peace reigned in the country, it is still not recommended to openly demonstrate political views and sympathies. Especially if we talk about war - problems are possible! The people here love the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the conflict still lingers in their minds.

You need to be careful with photos and videos. Under no circumstances should you take pictures where there is an image of a crossed out camera. It is also prohibited to film:

• any military installations;
• port facilities;
• objects related to the transport and energy fields.

There are no air connections within the country, they are focused only on international flights, but the state is small, and therefore you can easily move around it by other means of transport. For example, if you rent a car, you need to:

• be over 21 years of age;
• obtain a driver's license at least a year ago.

To rent a car you will have to pay from 40 to 250 euros per week of using the vehicle - it all depends on its technical condition.

You should not exceed the speed limit of 50 kilometers per hour within the city and 80 kilometers per hour outside the city. It is not recommended to neglect seat belts; doing so will result in a hefty fine. Since many roads are mountainous, you need to constantly concentrate while driving to avoid serious troubles.

When traveling, no one is immune from force majeure and unforeseen situations, and therefore it is better to always have emergency phone numbers at hand - write them down and put a piece of paper with them in your wallet:

• Police - 122;
• Fire protection – 123;
• Medical assistance – 124;
• General emergency assistance – 112.

How to get there?

Finally, let's talk about how to get to Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is not so easy to do, although the country is located relatively close to Russia. There are no direct scheduled flights from Moscow. But during the season when Bosnia and Herzegovina is popular, charter flights open. At other times of the year you will have to fly with transfers:

• in Istanbul (Türkiye);
• in Vienna (Austria);
• or in Munich (Germany).

It all depends on which airline you prefer to travel with.

Another option for getting to this country is also possible - to fly to other Balkan states, and from there travel by train or bus.

Now you know not only where Bosnia and Herzegovina is located, but also a lot of other interesting information about this country - what resorts, sea, and attractions there are.

Bosnia and Herzegovina ( Bosnia and Herzegovina) is a European state located in the central part of the Balkan Peninsula ( Balkan peninsula). It borders on the west and north with Croatia ( Croatia), in the southeast - with Montenegro ( Montenegro), in the east - with Serbia ( Serbia). Has access to the Adriatic Sea ( Adriatic Sea). The capital of the state is the city of Sarajevo ( Sarajevo).

The climate of the country is temperate continental. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, several microclimatic zones can be observed, determined by the terrain (almost 90% of the country is mountainous). When planning a vacation, tourists should remember that even within one day the weather can change greatly. The optimal time for a vacation in this country is from May to September.

Bosnia and Herzegovina has three official languages: Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian. A significant part of the population (40%) professes Islam, 31% of citizens are Orthodox, 15% are Catholics.

The capital, Sarajevo, will appeal to lovers of hiking with its atmosphere and beautiful views. The narrow streets of the old city and the colorful Turkish bazaar give the capital a special charm.

Trip to Bihac ( Bihac) and the ancient city of Mostar ( Mostar) will be remembered by connoisseurs of ancient architecture and historical monuments.

Resort Banja Vručica ( Banja Vrucica) is popular not only among residents of the country, but also among foreigners who prefer health tourism. Hikers will be able to enjoy the beauty of the local waterfalls.

Neum ( Neum) will appeal to vacationers and their travel companions who prefer to spend time on the beach.

Jahorina ( Jahorina) - Olympic ski center of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The center receives tourists from October to May.

Village of Medjugorje ( Medjugorje) - an object of pilgrimage for Christians. Travelers will see the site of the appearance of the Virgin Mary to children in 1981.

How to get there

Airplane

You can travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina by plane. The main airports receiving flights from the CIS and EU countries are located in Sarajevo and Tuzla ( Tuzla).

Ground transportation

You can enter the country by land from the territory of all neighboring states by car, bus or train. There is no direct railway connection only with Serbia. Train travel from Serbia to Bosnia and Herzegovina will pass through Croatia.

Sea communication

There is no direct sea connection with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Those who like to spend their holidays on boat trips can take a cruise ship to the Croatian port city of Dubrovnik ( Dubrovnik), located less than 20 minutes from the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Visa

EU citizens planning to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina for a stay of no more than 90 days will be able to do without a visa. Vacationers from Ukraine (Ukraine) and Russia ( Russia) a visa is not required if tourists do not plan to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina for more than 30 days. Tourists from other CIS countries will have to apply for a visa. Documents must be submitted in person (at least 3 working days before the expected date of vacation).

Customs

You can import and export foreign currency without restrictions, but with mandatory declaration. The import and export of local currency is limited to 200 Bosnian marks ( TO YOU). If tourists took more than the required minimum amount of jewelry on their trip, they must be declared for subsequent presentation of the declaration when leaving the country.

Tourists and their fellow travelers can bring into the country duty-free:

• small amounts of alcohol and cigarettes;
• perfumes for personal needs;
• souvenirs in an amount not exceeding 76 euros;
• You can take a small amount of jewelry with you for personal use.

Prohibited import into the country:

• antiques.

The export of objects of artistic or historical value from the country is prohibited.

Kitchen

Gastronomic tourists will be able to appreciate the creations of local culinary specialists. The cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina is a mixture of Mediterranean, Slavic, Turkish, Persian and German culinary traditions. Local residents brought their own flavor to each of them.

Tourists should start their gastronomic journey with a popular dish Bosanski Lonas(grilled meat with vegetables) or with Chepavichi(minced meat sausages).

Thick lamb soups Yagnetsa chorba and from fish Ryblya chorba are considered local delicacies, although they came to Bosnia and Herzegovina from Serbia.

Bosnians prepare traditional roast chicken Beck-soup.

Fish and seafood dishes are represented by a variety of goulash. In addition, pies are prepared from river fish, and salads are made from seafood.

The variety of desserts will pleasantly surprise the gastronomic tourist: Turkish delight, halva, all kinds of pies and donuts. Desserts with nuts are popular among tourists Alva(nuts boiled in honey) and Shtrukli(nuts and plums baked in cheese). Holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina will appeal to those with a sweet tooth.

Among non-alcoholic drinks, coffee and herbal teas are popular in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Many guides recommend paying special attention to Bosnian wines. While spending your holidays in this country, you should definitely try local alcoholic drinks based on Busa millet. (Busa), wild orchid tubers (Salep) and the famous vodka Rakia.

Money

The country's currency is the Bosnian convertible mark ( TO YOU), equal to 100 fenings. Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina ( Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina) issues banknotes from 10 to 200 marks for the population. The euro is in free circulation throughout the country.

You can exchange currency during your trip at exchange offices and banks. Receipts received during the exchange must be kept, as they will be needed for the return exchange when leaving Bosnia and Herzegovina. We recommend avoiding unofficial exchange offices due to the high risk of becoming a victim of scammers.

Bank cards Visa And Maestro accepted for payment at large retail outlets, hotels and restaurants. It is important for tourists and their fellow travelers who love country walks to know that there are few ATMs outside the capital.

Traveler's checks can only be exchanged in banks and the procedure will take a lot of time.

Particular attention should be paid to safety. Fans of cycling in the countryside are not advised to leave the main road, since not everywhere the territory has been cleared of mines after the last war. Tourists are advised to avoid remote communities after dark.

What you need to know

Sights of Bosnia and Herzegovina

In Bosnia and Herzegovina there are two sites included in the UNESCO World Heritage List, which tourists can get acquainted with while traveling around the country:

• Old Bridge ( Stari most) in Mostar. Pedestrian bridge over the Neretva River ( Neretva river) was built in 1566. During the Croatian-Bosnian War in 1993, the bridge was destroyed. With the assistance of UNESCO, it was completely restored and once again delights hikers.
• Mehmet Pasha Sokolovic Bridge ( Bridge of Visegrad on the Drina River) in Visegrad ( Visegrad). A visit to Visegrad will be interesting not only for connoisseurs of historical and architectural monuments, but also for lovers of mountain routes - not far from the city there is Mount Varda ( Ward).

Candidates for inclusion in the UNESCO list will be of interest to tourists.

• Sarajevo. Travelers who are on vacation in this city will be able to walk along the famous Latin Bridge ( Latin Bridge). It was on this spot that Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, which marked the beginning of the First World War.
• Vetrenitsa Cave ( Vjetrenica cave) is the largest cave in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Egg ( Jajce) - the town located in a picturesque place will appeal to lovers of hiking. On vacation, they will be able to enjoy mountain scenery and waterfalls.
• Pocitelj ( Pocitelj). The main local historical and architectural monument is the ancient city fortifications.
• Benefits (Blagaj). A trip to these places will allow tourists to see the tekiya of the dervishes located in a picturesque place.
• Blidinje National Nature Park ( Blidinje Nature Park) will appeal to fans of mountain routes.
• Stolac ( Stolac). Connoisseurs of monuments of ancient civilizations will be able to see examples of rock art in the Badan Cave ( Badanj cave), ruins of ancient Greek settlements and an ancient cemetery.
• Stechki (Stecaks)- medieval graves that are found throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Souvenirs from Bosnia and Herzegovina

Tourists from Bosnia and Herzegovina bring:

• sheep wool products;
• vodka "Rakia";
• sweets;
• ceramics;
• copper products inlaid with silver.

Popular resorts

Just recently, Soviet tourists were crazy about the narrow streets, cozy restaurants and colorful mosques and churches of one of the most beautiful republics of Yugoslavia. At that glorious time, Bosnia received substantial income from numerous travelers from all over the continent. Then, when the Yugoslav friendship of peoples crumbled like a paper boat on the waves of the Adriatic, the Balkans fought with each other and no one thought about tourism.

When the conflicts in the North of the Balkan Peninsula subsided, neighbors Bosnia - and Montenegro - quickly restored their entire tourism infrastructure, thanks to the sea coast and the absence of minefields. Bosnia and Herzegovina, where internal conflicts have lasted for quite a long time and the sea coast is very small, had a much more difficult time. The war destroyed many monuments from the Byzantine and Ottoman Empire, and even more historical sites had to be restored. All this labor-intensive and sad business pushed Bosnia away from its tourist-prosperous neighbors for ten years.

Despite the difficulties, today Bosnia is ready to welcome tourists and offer them something special that you won’t see in other European countries:

Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

• an amazing cultural mixture of Islam, Christianity of different faiths, despite the fact that people of all nationalities of the country are Slavs;
• beautiful nature and excellent ski resorts;
• hospitable residents who understand very well that only tourists can influence the rapid development of the country’s economy;
• delicious and original cuisine;
• low prices for accommodation, transport and food.

All these advantages of Bosnia and Herzegovina make this forgotten country very attractive, interesting and inexpensive for tourists.

Road

Russians are free from the hassle of purchasing a visa to Bosnia. But travel costs are quite high. The point is not in the cost of tickets, a flight from Moscow to Sarajevo and back costs no more than 200 euros, but in the fact that there are no direct flights. All of them have a transfer (in Belgrade, Vienna, Munich, Istanbul, Zurich), and the wait at the intermediate airport can be 10 or 14 hours. Such a long stay at the airport is associated with food, which is not cheap in such places.

Solution: feel free to take sandwiches in your hand luggage so that you can only buy water or coffee at the airport.

Where to live?

The most expensive housing in Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in the city of Neum, the country’s only seaside resort. Outside the high sea season, apartments that can comfortably accommodate at least 4 people cost no more than 25 euros/day.

In other cities of Bosnia it is easy to find housing for 12-15 euros. But the best way out is to rent an apartment. In this case, the costs will be very small, and complete freedom and the opportunity to cook on your own in a fully equipped kitchen will make your visit to the country truly carefree and convenient.

Rent of a three-room apartment in the capital of Bosnia, Sarajevo - 300 euros/month (from 10 euros/day).

Where and what is there?

The cuisine of Bosnia and Herzegovina is very special. Here you can find many cafes and restaurants that offer Mediterranean cuisine, there are establishments with halal food (for Muslim believers), there are Italian, Greek and French establishments.

Pleskavica

Seafood in Bosnia is not the most interesting cuisine. But the meat here is used to make amazing dishes with a special taste:

• shish - this is the name of Bosnian kebab;
• gyuvech - a Slavic take on pilaf, an unusual and very tasty dish;
• pljeskavica is a huge minced cutlet.

Among the Bosnian sweets, the following are especially interesting:

• Štrukli - cheese casserole with nuts and plums;
• alva - nuts boiled in honey;
• priganitsa - sweet donuts.

Food prices in the city of Sarajevo or Trebinje are distributed as follows:

• breakfast costs 3-4 euros;
• lunch in a restaurant - 6-8 euros;
• dinner with wine no more than 10 euros per person.

If you buy food in supermarkets or at the market and eat on your own, the daily budget will not exceed 5-6 euros per person.

Where to go and what to see?

Sarajevo

Academy of Arts in Sarajevo

Bosnia and Herzegovina does not boast an abundance of international airports. Almost all tourists enter the country through Sarajevo, where they need to see the following objects:

Royal Mosque

• The Latin Bridge is the most famous landmark of Bosnia, which is nothing special. If only Gavrilo Princip had not come up with the idea to shoot at the unfortunate heir to the Austrian throne at this very place. Now all the country's tour guides make sure to stop at this small and unremarkable bridge and tell the heartbreaking story of the place. You can go to the bridge for a few “selfies”, but there is nothing else here that would make an impression;
• Moricha Khan - this is where it gets much more interesting. This ancient inn was for caravans laden with oriental goods traveling west. Nothing remains of the original 16th-century building, but the layout of the ancient inn has been perfectly preserved: it is a small town with micro-streets and courtyards. Now there is no hotel here, but mainly all sorts of offices of religious organizations are located here, but there is a cafe with hookah and a restaurant serving national cuisine. You shouldn’t pass by the shop under the “Isfahan” sign; they sell stunning handmade Persian carpets here;
• The Gazi-Hosrevbey Mosque is the oldest and most interesting in Bosnia. Anyone can enter (ticket - 1 euro), and of interest to tourists is the interior of the Muslim prayer house of Bosniaks (Slavic Muslims), mosaics, Mirhab (designating the side where Mecca is) with gilded quotes from the Koran, burial places of great rulers and statesmen Bosnia. There is also a marble fountain and the remains of an old religious school;
• Markale Square is the noisiest and most cheerful place in the Bosnian capital. The history of this shopping area goes back to the earliest times in Bosnian history. Bosnians remember the events of the late 20th century, when a terrible explosion occurred here, killing dozens of civilians, but there are no monuments or signs on the square telling about the tragedy. The richest bazaar in the country is now bustling in the square. Here are the best vegetables and fruits, meat delicacies and sweets;
• The National Museum is an amateur's attraction, of course, but the institution is famous for its rich collection of artifacts and works of art.

The city is located in the south of Bosnia and is popular among tourists due to its proximity to the Croatian border, which can be reached by regular bus. But the city itself will be of interest to travelers for its beauty:

• The Arslanagic Bridge is an example of 16th-century Ottoman engineering. The fateful crossing, which contributed to the birth of the city, there was a collection point for collecting money for the use of the stone crossing. The bridge was moved several times, and for some time it was completely under water. But each time the structure was restored very carefully. Even today this famous bridge looks quite ancient;
• The Cathedral Orthodox Church is the main center of Orthodoxy in the multi-religious city. It is interesting to stop by to see the interiors and the unique mosaic floors, so rarely seen in Orthodox churches. The bright iconostasis and unusual placement of icons will surprise and make the most experienced travelers admire;
• Central Square - trips from neighboring Croatia are organized to the market located here. Prices for souvenirs and wine, fruits and sweets are very low here, and the quality of goods is excellent;
• Tvrdosh Monastery is 4 kilometers from the city. The oldest Christian monastery, founded by Constantine the Great in the 4th century. After numerous reconstructions, the monastery retained its ancient charm and rich wine cellars. The great associate Vasily Ostrozhsky is buried here.

Mostar

"Old Bridge" over the Neretva River in Mostar.

Of all the cities in Bosnia, Mostar is probably the richest in a cultural sense. The multinational and multi-religious environment of this city attracts tourists with its unusualness and richness of cultural monuments of various kinds:

• The historical center of the city - bridges, churches, mosques. An ancient Byzantine fortress, several picturesque markets, Tito's Palace - all these are the main treasures of Mostar;
• Synagogue - destroyed during the war, has not yet been fully restored;
• The Turkish bath is an architectural monument of the last century. Today there is a spa center here, the services of which are inexpensive;
• The outskirts of the city are equally interesting. In any tourist shop in the city you can buy a tour of the surrounding towns, which have something special, unique, inimitable: Chaplina, Pocitelj, Jablanica - all these are bright pearls in the necklace of the towns and villages of Mostar.

Neum is a seaside resort in Bosnia and the most popular destination for lovers of summer sea pleasures. Apart from the usual beaches and boarding houses for the Mediterranean coast, there are very few attractions here. Several markets, a dozen shops. In addition to the local population, a hundred or two tourists permanently live here.

The aromas of local cafes reach the border of Croatia, which is located very close. What is attractive for tourists in Neum is safety, low prices for accommodation and food, original souvenirs, pebble beaches and a warm sea.

No mind. Coast of the Adriatic Sea.

From Bosnia to other countries

The easiest way to get from Bosnia is to Croatia. In the first and second cases, it makes sense to use regular buses: the journey is no more than two hours, the fare one way is 3-4 euros.

You can get to Dubrovnik or Split - excellent seaside resorts in Croatia. See the main attractions and return back.

To avoid bureaucratic misunderstandings when crossing the border, it is better to book a one-day tour to Croatia or Montenegro at any agency in Bosnia (from 20 euros per person).

Unpleasant features of local police and customs

No matter how attractive the country is for a budget tourist, you need to know about some features of local adherents of order:

• When crossing the border, Russian tourists may experience inexplicable difficulties with border guards and customs officers. The guardians of the rule of law may turn out to be “incompetent” and require a “visa”. In this case, feel free to demand the boss of money-loving officials. In this case, everything is resolved quickly and without delay;
• Bosnian police are not averse to making money on naive travelers. If your guard demands a “fine,” feel free to state that you will only pay at the police station. In 99% of such cases, the interest of dishonest public order guards evaporates and they wish you a “pleasant stay.”

The population of Bosnia is very friendly towards tourists. The level of security here is normal, European. But traveling to rural areas unaccompanied is not a good idea. Alas, not all the picturesque fields and hillocks of the country are completely free of mines. Use the services of travel agencies if you decide to explore the beauty of “inner” Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Bosnia is perhaps the last European country to maintain the level of prices for services unchanged since the 90s. It may not have the same level of comfort as in Italy or France, but it will be a pleasure to relax here both for those who cannot live without exploring local cultural masterpieces, and for those who most love the sun, sea and delicious food.