How much does it cost to travel to Bosnia and Herzegowina?
You should plan to spend around $73 (KM134) per day on your vacation in Bosnia and Herzegowina. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $28 (KM51) on meals
- $7.88 (KM14) on local transportation
- $64 (KM117) on hotels
A one week trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina for two people costs, on average, $1,023 (KM1,874). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Bosnia and Herzegowina expensive to visit?
Bosnia and Herzegowina is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Bosnia and Herzegowina is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Ukraine, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands.
For more details, see Is Bosnia and Herzegowina Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina?
The average Bosnia and Herzegowina trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Bosnia and Herzegowina travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.
Category
|
Cost
|
Accommodation 1
(Double Occupancy)
|
KM117
($64)
|
Local Transportation 1
|
KM14
($7.88)
|
Food 2
|
KM51
($28)
|
Entertainment 1
|
KM16
($8.96)
|
Tips and Handouts 1
|
KM1 -
3
($0 - 1)
|
Alcohol 2
|
KM4 -
12
($2 - 6)
|
Accommodation Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Bosnia and Herzegowina is $32 (KM59). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Bosnia and Herzegowina is $64 (KM117). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Bosnia and Herzegowina? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Local Transportation Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The cost of a taxi ride in Bosnia and Herzegowina is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $7.88 (KM14) per person, per day, on local transportation in Bosnia and Herzegowina.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$7.88
KM14
Typical prices for Local Transportation in Bosnia and Herzegowina are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Local Transportation prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.
Food Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While meal prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina can vary, the average cost of food in Bosnia and Herzegowina is $28 (KM51) per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in Bosnia and Herzegowina should cost around $11 (KM20) per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in Bosnia and Herzegowina is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$28
KM51
Typical prices for Food in Bosnia and Herzegowina are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Food prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.
Entertainment Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Entertainment and activities in Bosnia and Herzegowina typically cost an average of $8.96 (KM16) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$8.96
KM16
Typical prices for Entertainment in Bosnia and Herzegowina are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Entertainment prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.
-
National Museum (for 2)
KM14
Tips and Handouts Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average cost for Tips and Handouts in Bosnia and Herzegowina is $0.91 (KM1.67) per day. The usual amount for a tip in Bosnia and Herzegowina is 5% - 15%.
-
Tips and Handouts1
For guides or service providers
$0.91
KM1.67
Alcohol Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $4.20 (KM7.69) on alcoholic beverages in Bosnia and Herzegowina per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$4.20
KM7.69
Typical prices for Alcohol in Bosnia and Herzegowina are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the Alcohol prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.
-
A Few Drinks (for 2)
KM12
Water Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, people spend $4.35 (KM7.97) on bottled water in Bosnia and Herzegowina per day. The public water in Bosnia and Herzegowina is considered safe to drink.
-
Water2
Bottled water for one day
$4.35
KM7.97
Bosnia and Herzegowina On a Budget
Mostar Old Town
Bosnia and Herzegowina were part of the former Yugoslavia and are located on the Balkan Peninsula in Europe. The country gained its independence in 1992 but a brutal civil war followed between the Serbs, Bosniaks, and Croatians. Signs of the war are still quite evident today all over the country. Despite its brutal past, Bosnia has overcome and developed into a thriving country. Bosnian Muslims, or Bosniaks, once represented the nationality of the region, but the idea of ethnic unity in the area is growing, and diversity is more welcome today.
In addition to its rich and fascinating cultures, the country has stunningly beautiful landscapes in the form of mountains and green rivers. There are countless opportunities to experience the outdoors here, either through rafting, kayaking or hiking. Bosnia is also a great country to visit if you're hoping to take part in some winter sports. Sarajevo actually hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984.
The country is divided into several different regions, with the most frequently visited being the Sarajevo Region. The capital city is a popular destination for its rich culture, traditional old town, and historic nature. Herzegovina, to the south, is traditionally inhabited by the Croats and is a popular destination because of the famed Mostar Bridge. The landscape in the area is also quite beautiful, so if you have time to visit other parts of the region, definitely do. Other regions include the Bosanska Krajina to the northwest, Posavina which follows the Sava River, and the northeast and central parts of the country.
Traveling around Bosnia is best done by bus. There's a very good bus system that will take you almost anywhere in the country. The trains are another option, but many are quite old and slow. The tracks have also been heavily damaged so there is frequent disruption in the service.
At A Glance
- There is still a threat of landmines throughout most of Bosnia. If you're driving in the area it is best to remain on paved roads. If you're hiking, stay on marked trails that are well frequented. When in doubt, ask a local and they will likely be informed on the area. Generally, stay away from areas where you know there is a concern for landmines and you should be okay.
- It is very easy to travel to Bosnia by bus from the nearby countries. Most buses will drop you off at the main bus station in Sarajevo. There are frequent buses from the more popular destinations including Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Belgrade, Rijeka and Pula, among others. The buses are usually modern coaches that are in good condition. Breakdowns are rare.
- Hitchhiking is an option in Bosnia, but like elsewhere, do stay hyper vigilant regarding your safety. It's a great way to meet locals who you are unlikely to interact with otherwise. Also, stay aware of the landmine threat and make sure your vehicle does not leave the paved road. Generally, you don't have to wait long to find a ride, but along less popular routes it can be a challenge.
- It is best to exchange your money within the country, or withdraw cash from an ATM, as this will likely give you the best exchange rate. There are many different cash exchange venues in the larger cities. Also make sure you exchange all of your konvertibilna marka back to euros or dollars before leaving the country. If you don't, you're unlikely to find anybody outside of the country who will change the money for you.
- Many people enjoy shopping in Bosnia as there are many local items that make interesting souvenirs. There are some great larger shopping malls around where you can get typical, western clothes and items, but if you're looking for something that is locally made, head to the markets and old towns. There are many different crafts, fabrics, and kitchen goods available. Prices are usually negotiable so you can have fun trying to haggle with the shopkeeper as well.
Related:
Looking for a party in
Croatia?
Traveling alone to
Split or
Dubrovnik?
Find a
Contiki tour to Europe.
Top Tourist Attractions
Mostar's Old Bridge: This famous and quintessential sight in Bosnia signifies unity in the country. It's a very scenic and historic bridge that crosses over the Neretva River. It was destroyed during the war in the nineties, but has since been rebuilt and is now a popular destination for travelers.
Jajce: This beautiful small town is famous for the waterfalls that are in its downtown area. The town is quaint and historic, dating back to the fourteenth century. It's located in the central part of the country and is relatively easy and convenient to reach from most of the major cities.
Sarajevo's Old Town: Sarajevo is a wonderful mix of old and new. It has a diversity of cultures, activities, and entertainment. One of the most attractive areas is the old town, which has many of the most recognizable sights and best shopping opportunities. It's possible to find accommodation in a local home in or around the old town, which can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience.
Popular Foods
Bosnian cuisine includes many delicious and richly flavored dishes. Almost every dish includes some type of meat item, so vegetarians will be hard pressed to find something traditional that they can eat. Even vegetable dishes are often flavored with bacon or pork, so inquire before you order. Meat dishes include kebabs, pastries, and patties that are quite hearty and filling.
Cevapi: This is a Bosnian kebab dish that is made from ground beef and lamb and served with pita or rice. It uses many popular spices and has a strong, but excellent flavor. It makes for a great lunch or dinner option.
Borek: This is a filo pastry dish that is filled with beef and spices or feta and spinach and served with sour cream. It's a popular "fast food" option. It's usually formed into spirals on a large, flat baking sheet and served in small, local restaurants. It's a good, cheap option if you're looking for something filling.
Sarma: This is a traditional cabbage and meat dish that is served with spices. It is a great dinner option and is available in many different restaurants.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.