Is Bosnia and Herzegovina Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bosnia and Herzegovina has generally safe neighborhoods, especially in tourist-populated areas. Street crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is relatively low. However, it's recommended that you stay cautious as a solo female traveler. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings at all times, especially at night and in less crowded areas. Use common sense when catching taxis and where possible, book through a reputable company. In terms of cultural respect, it's always best to dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention. Lastly, be aware of land mines in rural areas from the recent war.

Safety rating

4.3 /5

Based on 43 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

3.8 /5

Based on 12 experiences from local women

Bosnia and Herzegovina is currently ranked #63 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.3 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Bosnia and Herzegovina?

Safety at night:Moderate

Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. However, you should exercise caution especially when walking alone at night. While major cities like Sarajevo are relatively safe, it's always best to avoid dimly lit and deserted areas. Most locals are incredibly helpful and hospitable, but as with any place, it's important to stay vigilant and follow your instincts.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally quite reliable and widespread, covering almost all parts of the country. Buses and trams are the most common modes of transport and are often preferred by locals and tourists alike. While pickpocketing in crowded places can happen, it's not a common occurrence. Late-night transport options may be limited in smaller towns. As with any form of public transport, being aware of your surroundings and keeping an eye on your belongings is recommended.

Street harassment:Low

Bosnia and Herzegovina generally maintains a respectful culture towards women. Although street harassment occasionally happens, it is not a prevalent issue. As a traveler, you may experience occasional stares, especially in the more conservative and rural areas. However, overall, this country is considered safe for solo female travelers. Just make sure to exercise usual caution and discretion.

Petty crimes:Low

Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally a safe country for travelers, including solo female travelers. Though petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag-snatching can occur, especially in tourist areas and on public transportation, these incidents are relatively uncommon. However, travelers should always take precautions in maintaining their personal safety and safeguarding their belongings.

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 43 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.3/5

Safety

4.3/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.8/5

Sarajevo, Family travel

I stayed in Sarajevo for 3 days and always felt safe, even at night. The people are welcoming and the city has a calm and relaxed atmosphere. I stayed in an apartment in the center, a perfect location to get around on foot: almost everything is within walking distance. I recommend visiting Baščaršija (the old town), the Tunnel of Hope, the cable car that goes up Mount Trebević (amazing views), and simply getting lost among the streets full of history. The War Museum disappointed me a bit because of how it is maintained, so I would skip it. For food, I absolutely recommend Ćevabdžinica Željo and trying local desserts like baklava. In general, it's a low-cost trip, perfect if you want to see a different city, full of culture and with a touching past. The itinerary was flexible, so no rushing, just relaxed exploration.

Posted: May 11, 2025

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Aya

Italy

Jajce, Family travel

I stayed in Jajce for a few days and I always felt safe, even at night. The people are welcoming and the city has a calm and relaxed atmosphere. I slept in an apartment in the center, which was a perfect location to get around on foot: almost everything is within walking distance. Overall, it’s a low-cost trip, perfect if you want to see a different city, full of culture and with a beautiful landscape. The itinerary was flexible: no rushing, just relaxed exploration.

Posted: May 11, 2025

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Mostar, Family travel

Oh my God I honestly haven't seen a more beautiful city. It was so beautiful. Everything was perfect. The food the beauty the people literally everything. The energy was amazing. There were still visible consequences of war on many buildings but people were happy. It was cheap. So amazing.

Posted: April 26, 2025Experienced: July, 2023

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Banja Luka, Group travel

It's so safe, The food is first class even at the local shops, You can do anything you want in the city, Some hill areas were restricted when I gone hicking, so I probably don't know much about that,

Posted: April 11, 2025

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Ava

Albania

Mostar, Solo travel

Jumped off the historic bridge with thousands of people watching after 8 practice jumps. Bathing suit up my butt, drowned rat hair, didn't buy a drink for the rest of the day. Great town, great people!

Posted: February 11, 2025

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Sarajevo, Family travel

I felt safe in Sarajevo but I don’t know if that’s because i was with my family or not but I think it’s a calm city. I didn’t feel particularly alarmed. Just be aware of your surroundings but I wouldn’t say that it’s dangerous to solo travel here.

Posted: January 31, 2025

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Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe for women?

Safety index

3.8 /5

Based on 12 local experiences

Crime index

1.9 /5

Based on 12 local experiences

Banja Luka

I haven't been around much. But as far as I know, it's safe and secure for a night walk, travelling alone, and most of the people are kind and understanding. It's all good and fun and I'm curious to meet new people.

Posted: April 10, 2025

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Marija

City of Čapljina

Čapljina is a small town where everyone knows everyone. It’s really safe, people walk around at night without worry, and there’s not much crime. It’s the kind of place where you’ll often see kids playing outside or people just enjoying coffee in town. Nothing much ever happens here – in a good way.

Posted: April 6, 2025

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