Why Bosnia and Herzegovina is perfect for budget travellers

Save big money when travelling to the 'Jerusalem of Europe' on holiday

Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe’s most exciting destinations. Home to beautiful mountains, turquoise blue rivers and dramatic waterfalls, the Balkan nation is perfect for budget travellers wanting to get away from the crowds.

Unlike its neighbour Croatia, Bosnia doesn’t get millions of tourists and its considerably cheaper too. With its stunning natural setting and vibrant history, BiH will satisfy the desires of outdoor backpackers and culture vultures.

Reasons to travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH)

1) Sarajevo

Image by Michał Huniewicz (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The Bosnian capital captures the vibrant culture of two great empires – the Austro-Hungarian and the Ottoman. A beautiful, cultured city, Sarajevo is a magnificent place to visit as a budget traveller. Just crossing the street is like leaving Vienna and arriving in Istanbul.

Religiously diverse, the ‘Jerusalem of Europe’ is now a thriving tourist destination full of contemporary bars, galleries and restaurants.

While there are marks of Bosnia’s religious wars – bullet filled walls and cemeteries on green hillsides – Sarajevo is a city reborn.

2) Mostar and other towns

Image by Clark & Kim Kays (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Stari Most (Old Bridge) in Mostar is the country’s most famous landmark, but it’s certainly not the only one worth visiting. Destroyed in the 1990s, it has been spectacularly rebuilt and is now used by travellers to jump into the emerald river below.

Image by Giovanni Tufo (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Jajce in northwest Bosnia is definitely worth a visit. This medieval fortress is a beautiful example of BiH’s multi-religious heritage and attracts hardly any tourists. Located on a stunning hilltop, travellers go there to admire its cascading waterfall.

3) Beautiful landscapes

Image by Milo van Kovacevic (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Travelling across the Balkans, you will discover some truly epic scenery on foot and public transport. Flowing waterfalls and epic gorges dominate in this part of the world.

From the forests of Vrelo Bosne park in Sarajevo to waterfalls in Kravice, you will be spoilt for choice on holiday in BiH.

4) Amazing local food and coffee

Image by Michał Huniewicz (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Embracing influences from both Western and Eastern influences, the local cuisine is a feast for meat eaters. Get ready for lamb rich dishes, hearty stews and Bosnian coffee.

From burek pizza filled with cheese to minced Ćevapi dishes, the local cuisine is a joy to behold

5) It’s cheap!

Image by Lassi Kurkijärvi (Flickr/Commons)

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a budget traveller’s paradise and you can find superb hostels for as little as €10 per room (including Sarajevo and Mostar) while eating out costs as little as €3.

Public transport is also highly affordable – you can take a five hour bus ride from Mostar to Sarajevo for only €10, while a train ride on the same route costs €5.

You should travel now while the prices remain so cheap. The only way is up for Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Where to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Book now if you want get a cheap room in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Check out our availability for Sarajavo and Mostar – we have excellent hostels and hotels at low prices.

*Header image by Clark & Kim Kays (Flickr/Creative Commons)