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

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Safety index

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.

Tap water:Safe

In general, tap water in Bosnia and Herzegovina is considered safe to drink. The purity of water may, however, vary in different regions. Some areas, especially rural ones, could have less reliable water supplies. Hence, using a water purification tablet or drinking bottled water can be an alternative solution when you are unsure.

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe to travel?

4.1 /5

Based on 6 experiences

Chen

Chen

France

Solo travel experience

Bosnia is very safe but my hostel was on a hill and it’s bit of a walk so it was a bit scary but it is safe. A lot of great museums about the war and tragedy happened here, the one by sacred heart cathedral called 1995/07/11? I think is really amazing. Take the cable car to the top! And do a little hike. It’s great meditation. The restaurants are all in the city center. There is one recommended by my hostel called singing nettle which I didn’t have time to visit but the menu looks nice enough

Posted: January 29, 2024
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Solo travel experience

I was in Sarajevo and Mostar in August and I felt very safe. Really interesting places, with fascinating history and culture, and friendly people.

Posted: October 21, 2023
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Solo travel experience

I visited alone for about three days. It's a safe place, but quite melancholic. In Sarajevo, one can still see traces of the civil war. It's definitely worth visiting the Srebrenica Museum, unless you have a weak stomach - in that case, I wouldn't recommend it. The south has a beautiful Mediterranean atmosphere. It's inexpensive and has a great climate. A bit like in Georgia.

Posted: October 3, 2023
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Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe for women?

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe right now?

Before your visit to Bosnia and Herzegovina, it's essential to check travel advisories for Bosnia and Herzegovina, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.
🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States Government advises exercising increased caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to terrorism and land mines. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: July 26, 2023
🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina. This is due to the prevalence of crime and the risks associated with unmarked landmines and unexploded ordnance in rural and isolated mountainous areas. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: March 13, 2024
🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Bosnia and Herzegovina due to the risk of landmines. Check the full travel advisory.
Last updated: January 22, 2024

Is Bosnia and Herzegovina worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.2 /5

based on 6 experiences

Rating summary

Things to do

4.3/5

Safety

4.1/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

4.2/5

Solo travel experience

I was there in May and I must admit, Mostar and Sarajevo made a huge impression on me. The ruined buildings, of which there are much more in Mostar than in Sarajevo, particularly moved me, as did the Museum of Crimes Against Humanity, which was created by close relatives of war victims and those who survived it. The museum mainly consists of the victims' memories, descriptions, films, memorabilia from these victims, and exhibits such as a chair and tools from a torture house.

Posted: December 24, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Solo travel experience

One of my favorite countries. It's so cheap, the landscapes are amazing, people are charming, and the food is so good. I've only been to Mostar and Sarajevo, but I regret that I couldn't visit more places. Mostar was beautiful, and the train journey between Mostar and Sarajevo is a must.

Posted: June 12, 2023
Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5
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Meet locals in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Meet local women in Bosnia and Herzegovina who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.
Levke

Levke

About Me

I am Levke (she/her), 23 years old and I study International Relations and Social Sciences (B.A.) in Erfurt. I am quite a political person, love to read, play games, crochet, and learn languages - really nerdy when it comes to those. I am active in environmental engagement, 🍉 P activism, and a queer feminist collective. At the moment I live in Sarajevo researching for my thesis and then I’ll probably go back to Lebanon for a while doing an internship. I am vegetarian but actually vegan mostly and love to cook and try new things. Walking, going for coffee or grabbing a drink with friends are also part of daily life as I’m a pretty social person!

Speaking

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Ani

Ani

About Me

Hello! I am Ani, 18 year old art student. I was born in Split 🇭🇷, but I live near Mostar 🇧🇦. I love art, books, music and traveling. My life goal is to visit as many places as I can, I love solo traveling and I am an introvert.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Stay with local women in Bosnia and Herzegovina who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.
Levke

Levke

Sarajevo

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am Levke (she/her), 23 years old and I study International Relations and Social Sciences (B.A.) in Erfurt. I am quite a political person, love to read, play games, crochet, and learn languages - really nerdy when it comes to those. I am active in environmental engagement, 🍉 P activism, and a queer feminist collective. At the moment I live in Sarajevo researching for my thesis and then I’ll probably go back to Lebanon for a while doing an internship. I am vegetarian but actually vegan mostly and love to cook and try new things. Walking, going for coffee or grabbing a drink with friends are also part of daily life as I’m a pretty social person!

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina

Connect with upcoming visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.
KorēAnne

KorēAnne

About Me

Aloha! I live on Kauai, and am happy to share my love for the incredible natural beauty here on the garden isle. I love travelling, and exploring new cities and scouring the countryside, meeting new people, and eating the local food!!!! I am interested in alternative history, natural health, and learning how to live more sustainably. I love to read, listen to a good podcast, watch indie movies, dance, and share converstion over coffee or tea. I enjoy hiking, yoga, surfing, swimming in the ocean, and exploring the unknown+++++

Speaking

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Elaine

Elaine

About Me

Hello everyone! 🙋🏽‍♀️ Looking to make new friends abroad and hopefully find a great host for few days while traveling in your country! ✈️ Planning my next travel to Europe and I'm accepting any recommendations about where I should visit as also some food tips!🏙🍕😁 Hope here about you all soon!

Speaking

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Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina