One Week in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia Herzegovina is in the Balkan region of southern Europe.

Countries in the Balkan region that are nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina include Albania, Northern Macedonia, Serbia (adjacent to its east), Croatia (adjacent to its north), Bulgaria, Kosovo, Slovenia, Montenegro (adjacent to its south), and Romania.

Similar to regions of the United States there is no widespread agreement on which countries make up the Balkan region and sometimes parts of Turkey and Greece are included. Further complicating designation is that in most recent times the terms Southeastern or Southeast are becoming more common, perhaps because of the political and ethnic upheaval often associated with the Balkan region. 

There are three southern peninsulas in Europe. From west to east they are the Iberian Peninsula of Spain and Portugal; the Italian Peninsula and the Balkan Peninsula.

What Language Do They Speak?

The language spoken in Bosnia Herzegovina reflects ethnic, political, religious, geographic, and historic ties as well as no standardization. Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian are the three primary languages, also termed Serbo-Croatian.

In recent years, the term has come to include the Bosnian and Montenegrin languages. While similar and not a hindrance to communication between groups, all are separate languages with their own dialects.

Is English spoken in Bosnia Herzegovina? Many do speak English that’s quite good, especially younger generation Bosnians. As always when traveling to a country with a language different than your own, learning common words and phrases can enrich your experience  - and that of your hosts, too.

What is the Weather Like?

Weather in Bosnia and Herzegovina is mild with variations depending on whether you are close to the Meditteranean, traveling through the plains or more hilly regions. In the Bosnian north, expect the coldest winter temps in January to hover around freezing, while in southern Herzegovina, about 42℉. Summer is a balmy 72℉ on average in Bosnia and about 78℉ in Herzegovina. June, July, August, and September are generally good times to travel to Bosnia Herzegovina weather-wise.

How much does it rain in Bosnia Herzegovina?

It’s always helpful to know whether you need to pack for rainy weather. The northern city of Banja Luka sees about 40 inches per year. Rain is heaviest during the months of October, November, December, and June with average monthly precipitation of about 4 inches.

In the southwestern part of Bosnia Herzegovina, the city of Mostar close to the Meditteranean sees an average of about 57 inches of precipitation per year. The months of October, November, and December are the heaviest with nearly 7, 8, and 9 inches respectively. The average annual precipitation in Sarajevo, situated further north and inland is about 37 inches. There, too, rain is heaviest during the months of October, November, and December.

Do I need a Visa? 

Visas for travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina are not required for stays under 3 months. Passports are required and must be valid for three months past your date of departure. 

Is it Safe to Travel?

As of the latest U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory in June of 2019, Bosnia and Herzegovina is at Level 2: travelers are advised to exercise increased caution due to terrorism and land mines. Be sure to visit Travel.State.Gov to see what current advisory levels are.

Also, be aware that air quality might be poor, especially in Sarajevo not only because of cigarette smoke but other pollution. What are the roads like in Bosnia Herzegovina? Road conditions can be hazardous; for example, no roadside guardrails and no street lights outside of city centers. There are special laws and papers are required so know before you go. General safety recommendations such as not wearing jewelry and keeping items of value close to your person should be followed.