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

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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.

Tap water:Very safe

The tap water in Sarajevo is considered to be very safe. It comes from natural springs and is commonly consumed by locals and travellers. Still, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to switch to bottled water gradually. But generally, there is no need to worry about waterborne illnesses.

Travel experiences

4.5 /5

Based on 11 experiences

Solo travel experience

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 experience

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 experience

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 experience

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 experience

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?

Is Sarajevo safe right now?

Before your visit to Sarajevo, 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.
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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
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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
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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

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Enisa

Enisa

About Me

Hey, My name is Enisa and I'm interested in business, cinema, digital nomad, food & cuisine, nature, photography, solo travel, sunbathing, sightseeing and technology

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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+++++

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Safety in Bosnia and Herzegovina