Bosnia and Herzegovina, often overlooked despite its vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, remains relatively undiscovered by many travelers. But if you’re considering a solo trip to this Balkan gem, you might be curious about safety and what to expect. Here’s a closer look at why it’s a great choice for solo travelers, along with some practical safety tips to help you plan your visit.
- My Personal Opinion and Experience
- Friendly Locals & Welcoming Culture
- Constant Activity
- Safe and Convenient Transportation
- Plentiful Accommodation Options
- What to Look Out For in Cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Safety Tips
- Make Friends Before & During Your Trip
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My Personal Opinion and Experience
Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of my all-time favorite destinations, largely because I always felt secure and safe during my travels there. Of course, this is based on my personal experience.
This Balkan country may not be as affluent as the rest of Europe, but it holds a special place in my heart because of its unique charm and the warmth of its people. It’s one of the few places where, as a solo female traveler, I never felt uncomfortable or threatened by the local men. Believe it or not, I was neither catcalled nor stared at, followed, or even received any unsolicited comments. The Bosnian men always minded their own business, which is a rare experience for a 21-year-old woman traveling alone in a new country.
For some, this might not seem like a big deal, but for someone who’s used to being stared at or receiving unwanted attention just by walking around, it felt like a breath of fresh air. To me, this was a clear sign of how safe Bosnia and Herzegovina can be. When locals respect your space and don’t make you feel uncomfortable, you know you’re in a truly great and respectful country.
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina in My Top 3 Favorite Countries?
Absolutely. I never expected to love Bosnia and Herzegovina as much as I did. Why not? Because I had no specific expectations when visiting, and I was so pleasantly surprised that it remains in my top three countries I’ve ever visited.
What sets Bosnia and Herzegovina apart for me are the cities I visited, the kindness, positive attitudes, and gratitude of the locals, its less touristy aspects, and how safe I always felt at any time of the day. Keep reading to learn more about why I highly recommend Bosnia and Herzegovina for solo travelers.
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Friendly Locals & Welcoming Culture
The warmth and friendliness of Bosnians played a huge role in my sense of safety. I was honestly so surprised by how they treated tourists. I wasn’t expecting everyone I encountered from my tour guides to the hostel owners and bus drivers, to be so welcoming and respectful.
Bosnian History & Culture
If you know a bit about its history, Bosnia and Herzegovina was at war until the mid-1990s. My tour guide in Mostar was actually a soldier during that conflict, and he shared the struggles the country went through. Listening to him didn’t scare me—in fact, it made me realize how grateful the locals are for the tourists who help rebuild their economy.
In some countries, you might feel like a burden as a tourist, but this was the opposite. The country is slowly improving each year, and the people are genuinely thankful to everyone who gives their beautiful nation a chance to be discovered.
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Constant Activity
When planning your trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina, you’ll quickly notice that most visitors tend to focus on two main cities: Mostar and Sarajevo, using them as bases for day trips. Although Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t yet a widely recognized tourist destination, these two cities, especially during the high season, are bustling with activity. The streets are filled with tourists shopping at markets, taking free guided tours, dining at restaurants, and more.
Even during early morning arrivals, like when my bus dropped me off at 5 a.m. in Mostar, I felt completely safe walking to my hostel in the dark. The presence of other travelers and the generally peaceful atmosphere contributed to this sense of security.
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Safe and Convenient Transportation
Navigating public transportation within a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina is relatively easy, though it may require a bit of effort. The best way to find your bus stop is by asking locals for directions, as information can change unexpectedly. Locals are usually more than willing to help.
Taxi services are also straightforward to use. Highly recommended taxi apps include Tranigo Taxi and Moj Taxi, as Uber isn’t available. These apps provide a fixed price upfront, helping you avoid scams. They also offer access to the driver’s personal details, reducing the likelihood of misconduct since the driver can be easily identified.
Travel Between Cities
Traveling between cities in Bosnia and Herzegovina is easy. For buses, booking online through GetByBus is convenient, allowing you to compare different bus companies and choose the best options and prices. During my stay, buses were punctual, and the drivers were friendly.
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Plentiful Accommodation Options
Since the country is still not a major tourist destination, the choices for accommodation are more limited. In cities like Mostar and Sarajevo, there are typically between 10 and 15 hostels available, not including Airbnbs and hotels. While there may be fewer options compared to cities like Rome, you’ll still find something that fits your needs.
Why Stay In a Hostel as a Solo Traveler?
These places not only provide a secure place to stay but also foster a sense of community, allowing you to meet fellow travelers. Many hostels organize group activities, tours, and social events, which can be a great way to explore the island safely while making new friends.
The help from the staff is also something you will love about hostels. They often provide valuable local advice, assist with arranging transportation, and offer recommendations for safe activities and places to visit. This level of support can be particularly reassuring for solo travelers, making them feel cared for and secure during their stay.
You’re a Last Minute Traveler like I Am?
Having many different accommodation options also provides flexibility, allowing you to easily change your plans if needed. If you arrive at a location and don’t feel entirely comfortable, it’s relatively simple to find alternative accommodations nearby. This flexibility gives peace of mind, knowing that you’re never stuck in one place and can always move to a safer or more suitable environment if necessary.
Rating Systems on the Accommodations Apps
Online platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Hostelworld offer a vast selection of lodgings with detailed reviews and ratings from previous guests. This transparency helps you make informed decisions depending on your priorities and wishes. You can read comments from travelers just like you. There is nothing more relatable than that.
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What to Look Out For in Cities
While Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe, it’s still important to stay mindful of your surroundings to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Land Mines
Due to the country’s recent history, unmarked land mines still exist in remote mountain areas. It’s crucial to stay on main roads and stick to well-populated areas when traveling. If you’re visiting popular attractions and cities, you should be safe, but it’s best to avoid off-the-beaten-path camping.
Insurance
If you plan to rent a scooter or a car, ensure that your travel insurance covers road accidents. Even experienced drivers can face challenging situations on the road.
Pickpocketing
Like in many European cities, pickpocketing can be an issue, especially in crowded areas. Be particularly vigilant in tourist-heavy cities like Mostar and Sarajevo. To avoid attracting unwanted attention, it’s advisable to avoid carrying expensive or flashy items.
Scams and Tourist Traps
As with any popular tourist destination, Bosnia and Herzegovina has its share of scams to be aware of. Common scams include overcharging for services, inflated prices in markets, and unlicensed tour guides offering overpriced excursions. To avoid falling victim to these, it’s important to familiarize yourself with typical prices in advance.
- For taxis: If you take a taxi without a pre-arranged fare, always ensure the meter is running before your journey begins. This helps prevent drivers from quoting inflated prices.
- For tours: When booking tours, opt for reputable companies such as GetYourGuide and Viator. If booking in person, be cautious and negotiate prices beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- For markets: Before making a purchase in markets, compare prices at different stalls or shops. Negotiation is common in larger cities, and vendors may start with higher prices. Don’t hesitate to haggle to get a fair deal.
Currency Exchange and Rates
When exchanging currency, always use official exchange counters or banks. What I highly suggest you do, is either exchange the money before your trip at your local bank, or, get money out of an ATM that has your card logo on it, and refuse the currency rate. That means your local bank will take care of modifying the currency and high chances are you will get a better rate.
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Safety Tips
- Bring a Padlock: If staying in hostels, carry a sturdy padlock for securing your belongings in provided lockers.
- Carry a Personal Alarm: A small, loud personal alarm can deter attackers and attract attention in emergencies.
- Stay Connected: Regularly update loved ones on your whereabouts and share your location via smartphone apps.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, leave immediately. Your safety is paramount.
- Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly and follow local customs to blend in and avoid unwanted attention.
- Avoid Flashing Valuables: Keep expensive items out of sight to reduce the risk of theft.
- Secure Your Valuables: Use a crossbody bag with a zipper, worn in front, to keep your essentials safe.
- Keep Emergency Numbers Handy: Save local emergency numbers in your phone and write them down as a backup.
- Keep Your Phone Charged: Carry a power bank to ensure your phone is always charged.
- Learn Basic Phrases: Know essential phrases in the local language for emergencies and basic communication.
- Get Travel Insurance: Ensure your insurance covers medical emergencies, theft, and trip cancellations.
For more detailed advice, check out our comprehensive article Top Safety Tips for Solo Travelers: Stay Safe & Confident.
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Make Friends Before & During Your Trip
Traveling solo doesn’t mean you have to be alone the entire time—unless, of course, that’s what you prefer, which is perfectly okay too. Both Jez and I (Léo) have made plenty of friends during our travels, even when we weren’t together. Thanks to the power of social media, it’s easier than ever to connect with fellow travelers and make new friends along the way. Here’s our take on the best and easiest way to do so:
Facebook Groups
Facebook groups are a fantastic resource for meeting other travelers. One of our favorites is called “The Female Solo Traveler Network.” Don’t hesitate to post in these groups, ask for advice, or suggest meeting up with others. You might find someone to join you for part of your trip or even plan an entire journey together! However, always be cautious of potential scams—it’s a good idea to ask for a video call to verify the person’s identity before making any concrete plans.
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