Is Sarajevo Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Sarajevo, the capital city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. The locals are known for their warmth and hospitality towards tourists. Street crime levels are relatively low. However, like any city, it is advised to stay alert, especially at night, and avoid isolated areas. It's common to see women out late in the city centers. Avoid political gatherings or protests, which can occasionally occur. Besides the city, public transportation is reliable and safe, but one should be cautious of sporadic traffic. Local customs and cultural norms are respected, and it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety rating

4.4 /5

Based on 13 experiences from female travelers

4 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Sarajevo is currently ranked #1 safest place in Bosnia and Herzegovina for solo female travellers, with an overall safety rating of 4.4 out of 5. . Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Sarajevo?

Safety at night:Safe

Sarajevo, being the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, generally has good safety measures in place, especially in areas frequently visited by tourists. However, it's always best to remain cautious when walking alone at night. While violent crimes are rare, petty crimes like pickpocketing may occur. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid deserted streets. Public transportation and taxis are reliable during the evening if walking isn't an option. Locals are usually friendly and helpful should you need any assistance.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Saravo, Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. Trams and buses are the predominant modes of transport and usually come regularly. The drivers and locals are helpful. Just remember to buy and validate your tickets to avoid on-spot fines. Like in any other city, be aware of your surroundings and where your belongings are, especially during rush hours, as pickpockets have been reported in crowded areas, albeit infrequently.

Street harassment:Low

Sarajevo, as the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is generally safe and welcoming to solo female travelers. Instances of street harassment are relatively rare, with locals often demonstrating respect and politeness towards women. However, like in any other city, it's always crucial to be vigilant, particularly at night or in less crowded areas.

Petty crimes:Low

Sarajevo, like all urban locations, has its share of petty crime such as pickpocketing, particularly in busy tourist areas or crowded public transportation. That said, it is generally considered safer than many popular tourist destinations globally. Vigilance, common-sense precautions like keeping your belongings secured and avoiding walking alone late at night would be a wise approach. Discrepancies like overcharging at local shops or restaurants may occur, so it's critical to be aware. Overall, tourists are generally safe from petty crime in Sarajevo with appropriate precautions.

Is Sarajevo worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.5 /5

based on 13 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.4/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

3.7/5

Family travel

Food was good, people were nice. TIP If u want to buy something in a local street store better ask someone local if he / she can buy it for you. Because when they hear turist price is double😆 .......

Posted: January 9, 2025Experienced: July, 2024

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Arwa

United States

Solo travel

It was amazing in Bosnia 🇧🇦 i fall in love with nature, it was really like meditation for me i enjoy going to the mountains and rivers, people are so friendly, life is simple, i rent a car snd i was driving and exploring the areas , truly i will come back snd i recommended to stay a 3 night in Sarajevo and going to other villages and cities near to Sarajevo

Posted: June 10, 2024

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Solo travel

Really enjoyed Sarajevo. It is such an interesting city with an incredibly tragic history. It felt so safe as a solo female traveller as the locals are so friendly! I recommend staying 3-4 nights as there is so much to do.

Posted: July 21, 2023

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Solo travel

Sarajevo is such an underrated place. It has a lot of charm, and the people are very friendly. I participated in several activities, such as a trip to Mostar. I also visited an abandoned bobsleigh track. There is so much amazing history there, and the food was incredible. I felt safe, but I'm not overly interested in nightlife, so I had dinner and returned to my Airbnb.

Posted: April 10, 2023

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Solo travel

Things to do: - Walk around the Old Town - Try Turkish coffee - Visit the Baščaršija market - Walk along the Miljacka River - Tour the City Hall - Visit the Sarajevo Tunnel of War - Visit the Yellow Fortress Safety: Generally, as a woman traveling alone, I felt safe. Recommendations: Sarajevo is probably my favorite city in the world. It is cheap, affordable, and has an amazing history.

Posted: September 17, 2022

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Solo travel

To do: - Visit the Old Town - Admire the Sebilj fountain - Participate in a free guided walk - Visit the Latin Bridge - Visit Sarajevo City Hall - Visit the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart Security: I felt safe, but I tried to stick to the central parts of the city for extra caution. Recommendations: Sarajevo is a great city to explore, especially if you are interested in history.

Posted: September 10, 2022

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Solo travel

Things to do: - Baščaršija - Sarajevo Tunnel - Sarajevo City Hall - Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque - Latin Bridge - Yellow Bastion - Sebilj - Bjelašnica - Sacred Heart Cathedral Safety: I felt completely safe. Recommendations: Sarajevo is amazing, so cheap and with so many things to do. It's very hilly, but the views are incredible.

Posted: September 3, 2022

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Is Sarajevo safe for women?

I would say it’s a safe city; the crime rate is low, but there are some exceptions, as there are everywhere. People are nice and polite; I personally haven’t been harassed by anyone in any way. The city is full of migrants, though, and they could be the ones making trouble.

Posted: November 4, 2024

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Meet locals in Sarajevo

Esma

About Me

Hi ✨ I am Esma, currently living and working in Sarajevo (BiH). Traveling and discovering new places, meeting new people, and tasting food are some of my greatest joys, especially when it comes to desserts 🍨🍫🍬. Exploring different cultures and trying new activities keeps my life exciting, and I love sharing these experiences with others, as I like to hear and read about other people's travel experiences.

Speaking

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Leila

About Me

Hi, I’m Leila—a interior designer with a deep love for travel and a knack for making people feel at home. I speak Bosnian, English, and Italian, currently learning Spanish, and from April, I’ll be guiding small tours through Sarajevo’s Old Town, sharing stories that bring the city’s history to life. I looove traveling, and visited places like Japan, South Korea, Mauritius, Vietnam and Island. Currently making content for my @oaragram account on Instagram. I appreciate neat and thoughtful people, and you can expect the same from me. Chances are, you’ll meet some of my friends along the way—they’re part of the Sarajevo experience too. If you’re looking for a warm introduction to the city and its soul, I’d love to show you around.