Famous Landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the heart of the Balkans, is a country with a rich cultural history, stunning natural landscapes, and a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. Known for its medieval architecture, Ottoman-era mosques, and picturesque mountain ranges, the country offers visitors a diverse travel experience that encompasses vibrant cities, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural wonders. Bosnia and Herzegovina is also famous for its hospitality, with warm and welcoming locals, delicious cuisine, and a rich tradition of cultural festivals.
Despite its turbulent past, particularly the war in the 1990s, Bosnia and Herzegovina has emerged as a safe and appealing destination for travelers looking to explore the lesser-known corners of Europe. From ancient bridges and mosques to pristine rivers and national parks, the country provides a unique blend of history, culture, and nature. Below are the top 10 famous landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina, each offering a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes.
1. Stari Most (Old Bridge)
Overview
Stari Most, or the Old Bridge, in the city of Mostar is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Originally built in the 16th century during the Ottoman Empire, the bridge spans the Neretva River and connects the two sides of the city. Stari Most was destroyed during the Bosnian War in 1993 but was painstakingly rebuilt using original techniques and reopened in 2004. The bridge is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a symbol of resilience and unity. Visitors can watch daring locals dive from the bridge into the river below, a tradition that dates back centuries.
Location
- City: Mostar, Herzegovina-Neretva Canton
- Coordinates: 43.3376° N, 17.8146° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to visit the bridge; there is a small fee to enter the nearby museum (around 3 BAM or $1.50 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Mostar International Airport (OMO): Located about 7 km from Stari Most.
Railway Stations
- Mostar Railway Station: Located about 1 km from the Old Bridge, offering train services to Sarajevo and other cities.
Special Attention
Bridge Diving: The Mostar Bridge Diving Competition takes place annually, drawing international divers to leap from the bridge into the Neretva River, an event not to be missed for thrill-seekers.
2. Sarajevo Baščaršija (Old Bazaar)
Overview
Baščaršija is the historic and cultural heart of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This Ottoman-era bazaar is a bustling hub of activity, featuring narrow cobblestone streets, artisan shops, traditional cafes, and historic mosques. Built in the 15th century, Baščaršija was once the center of trade and commerce in Sarajevo and remains a lively place where visitors can experience the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Key landmarks within Baščaršija include the Gazi Husrev-bey Mosque, Sebilj Fountain, and the Sarajevo Clock Tower.
Location
- City: Sarajevo, Sarajevo Canton
- Coordinates: 43.8592° N, 18.4316° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the bazaar; museum and mosque entry fees vary (around 2-5 BAM or $1-3 USD).
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 10 km from Baščaršija.
Railway Stations
- Sarajevo Railway Station: Located about 3 km from Baščaršija, with connections to other parts of the country.
Special Attention
Traditional Shopping: Visitors can purchase handmade crafts, jewelry, and traditional Bosnian goods, including copperware and rugs, while enjoying Bosnian coffee at local cafes.
3. Kravica Waterfall
Overview
Kravica Waterfall, located on the Trebižat River, is one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s most stunning natural landmarks. The waterfall forms a picturesque semi-circular cascade that stretches 25 meters high and 120 meters wide, creating a natural pool that is perfect for swimming during the summer months. Surrounded by lush greenery, Kravica is a popular spot for picnics, swimming, and photography. The area also offers opportunities for kayaking and hiking, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Location
- City: Near Ljubuški, Herzegovina-Neretva Canton
- Coordinates: 43.1560° N, 17.6084° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 10 BAM ($6 USD) during the summer season; lower fees apply in winter.
Nearby Airports
- Mostar International Airport (OMO): Located about 40 km from Kravica Waterfall.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; the closest major city with train services is Mostar.
Special Attention
Best Time to Visit: The waterfall is most impressive during the spring and early summer when water levels are higher, and the surrounding landscape is lush and green.
4. Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge
Overview
The Mehmed Paša Sokolović Bridge in Višegrad is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an outstanding example of Ottoman-era architecture. Built in the 16th century by the renowned Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan, the bridge spans the Drina River and is famous for its elegant design and historical significance. The bridge is also the subject of the novel “The Bridge on the Drina” by Nobel Prize-winning author Ivo Andrić, which chronicles the history of the region. Visitors can walk across the bridge and take in the views of the river and surrounding hills.
Location
- City: Višegrad, Republika Srpska
- Coordinates: 43.7849° N, 19.2850° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to visit the bridge.
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 125 km from Višegrad.
Railway Stations
- Višegrad Railway Station: Located about 2 km from the bridge, offering limited train services.
Special Attention
Literary Significance: Fans of Ivo Andrić’s novel will appreciate the historical and cultural depth of the bridge and its place in the literary history of the Balkans.
5. Blagaj Tekke (Dervish Monastery)
Overview
Blagaj Tekke is a 16th-century Dervish monastery located at the base of a cliff beside the spring of the Buna River, one of the largest and cleanest springs in Europe. The monastery is a serene and spiritual site, representing the Sufi branch of Islam. The picturesque setting, with the emerald green river flowing out of the cave beneath the towering cliffs, makes Blagaj a peaceful retreat for visitors. The monastery is still in use today, and visitors can explore the building’s rooms, learn about Sufi practices, and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.
Location
- City: Blagaj, near Mostar, Herzegovina-Neretva Canton
- Coordinates: 43.2571° N, 17.8992° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 5 BAM ($3 USD) for adults.
Nearby Airports
- Mostar International Airport (OMO): Located about 7 km from Blagaj.
Railway Stations
- Mostar Railway Station: Located about 12 km from Blagaj, with train services to Sarajevo and other cities.
Special Attention
Dress Code: Visitors are requested to dress modestly when entering the monastery, with women expected to cover their heads. Headscarves are usually provided at the entrance.
6. Počitelj
Overview
Počitelj is a well-preserved medieval Ottoman town located on the banks of the Neretva River. The town’s stone houses, mosques, and fortifications date back to the 15th century, and it served as a key strategic point during the Ottoman period. Visitors can climb to the top of the Počitelj Fortress for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and explore the town’s historical landmarks, including the Hajji Alija Mosque and the Sahat-kula (Clock Tower). The town’s historic architecture and tranquil setting make it a popular destination for history enthusiasts and photographers.
Location
- City: Počitelj, near Čapljina, Herzegovina-Neretva Canton
- Coordinates: 43.1375° N, 17.7311° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to explore the town and fortress.
Nearby Airports
- Mostar International Airport (OMO): Located about 30 km from Počitelj.
Railway Stations
There are no nearby railway stations; the closest station is in Čapljina, about 10 km from Počitelj.
Special Attention
Photography Spot: Počitelj’s well-preserved Ottoman architecture and stunning views make it a perfect spot for photography, especially at sunset.
7. Vrelo Bosne (Spring of the Bosna River)
Overview
Vrelo Bosne is a beautiful natural park located at the source of the Bosna River near Sarajevo. The park features crystal-clear springs, wooden bridges, and tranquil pathways surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful escape from the city. Visitors can take horse-drawn carriage rides through the park, enjoy a picnic by the river, or rent bicycles to explore the surrounding area. Vrelo Bosne is a great destination for nature lovers and those looking for a relaxing day out.
Location
- City: Ilidža, near Sarajevo, Sarajevo Canton
- Coordinates: 43.8226° N, 18.2672° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 2 BAM ($1.20 USD) per person.
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 8 km from Vrelo Bosne.
Railway Stations
- Ilidža Railway Station: Located about 5 km from Vrelo Bosne.
Special Attention
Ideal for Families: The park is a family-friendly destination, with wide walking paths, picnic spots, and boat rides available on the river.
8. Jajce Waterfall
Overview
The Jajce Waterfall is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located at the confluence of the Pliva and Vrbas rivers in the historic town of Jajce. The 20-meter-high waterfall is situated at the foot of the medieval Jajce Fortress, creating a stunning backdrop. The waterfall is a popular destination for tourists, who can admire the natural beauty of the falls while exploring the surrounding historical landmarks, including the fortress and the catacombs of Jajce.
Location
- City: Jajce, Central Bosnia Canton
- Coordinates: 44.3406° N, 17.2716° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 4 BAM ($2.50 USD) to view the waterfall.
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 160 km from Jajce.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Jajce.
Special Attention
Historic Jajce: In addition to the waterfall, visitors should explore the Jajce Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding area.
9. Sutjeska National Park
Overview
Sutjeska National Park is Bosnia and Herzegovina’s oldest national park and one of the country’s most important natural landmarks. Located in the Dinaric Alps, the park is home to the highest peak in Bosnia, Maglić Mountain, and the stunning Perucica Forest, one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. Sutjeska is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is also historically significant as the site of the Battle of Sutjeska during World War II, commemorated by a large memorial at Tjentište.
Location
- City: Near Foča, Republika Srpska
- Coordinates: 43.3258° N, 18.6858° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 5 BAM ($3 USD) for park entry.
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 100 km from Sutjeska National Park.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near Sutjeska National Park.
Special Attention
Hiking and Adventure: Visitors can hike to Maglić Mountain, explore the Perucica Forest, or visit the Battle of Sutjeska Memorial for a blend of natural beauty and history.
10. Travnik Fortress
Overview
Travnik Fortress is a well-preserved medieval fortress located in the town of Travnik, a town that was once the capital of Ottoman Bosnia. The fortress dates back to the 14th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley and the town of Travnik. Visitors can explore the fortress walls, towers, and museum, which showcases the history of the region. Travnik is also known for its colorful Ottoman-era buildings and traditional Bosnian coffee houses.
Location
- City: Travnik, Central Bosnia Canton
- Coordinates: 44.2263° N, 17.6605° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Around 2 BAM ($1.20 USD) for adults.
Nearby Airports
- Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ): Located about 90 km from Travnik.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Travnik.
Special Attention
Historic Town: After visiting the fortress, visitors should explore the town’s historic mosques, clock towers, and enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine in local restaurants.
