Verified Facts
To get around in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you can use a combination of public transportation options such as buses, trains, and taxis, as well as rent a car or use ride-hailing services, depending on your budget and personal preferences.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Bosnia and Herzegovina has two main international airports, Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) and Banja Luka International Airport (BNX), which receive direct flights from major European cities such as Istanbul, Vienna, and Zurich. You can also enter the country by land from neighboring Croatia, Serbia, and Montenegro, with several border crossings available. The most popular overland entry points include the border crossings at Slavonski Brod (Croatia) and Belgrade (Serbia). Additionally, there are several bus companies that operate international routes from Bosnia and Herzegovina to other European countries, including Eurolines and FlixBus.
If you prefer to travel by car, you can drive into Bosnia and Herzegovina from Croatia, Serbia, or Montenegro, but be sure to have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, driver's license, and car insurance. The country's roads are generally in good condition, but be prepared for potential delays and traffic congestion, especially during peak travel seasons. You can also take a taxi or bus from the border crossings to get to your final destination.
Domestic Flights
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a limited domestic air network, with only a few flights available between Sarajevo and other major cities such as Mostar and Banja Luka. The main domestic airline is B&H Airlines, which operates flights from Sarajevo to Mostar and Banja Luka. You can book domestic flights online through the airline's website or at a local travel agency. The cost of a domestic flight can range from $50 to $100 USD, depending on the route and time of booking. It's recommended to book in advance to secure the best prices.
Trains & Rail
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a moderate rail network, with trains connecting major cities such as Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka. The rail network is operated by ŽFBiH (Railways of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina) and ŽRS (Railways of the Republic of Srpska). You can take a train from Sarajevo to Mostar, which takes around 2 hours, or from Banja Luka to Doboj, which takes around 1.5 hours. The trains are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from $10 USD for a one-way ticket. You can book train tickets online or at the train station.
Buses & Coaches
Bosnia and Herzegovina has an extensive network of buses and coaches, which are the most popular mode of public transportation in the country. Several bus companies, such as Centrotrans and Globtour, operate intercity routes, connecting major cities such as Sarajevo, Mostar, and Banja Luka. The buses are generally comfortable and affordable, with prices starting from $10 USD for a one-way ticket. You can book bus tickets online or at the bus station.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Sarajevo, Mostar, Banja Luka | $1-$2 | Frequent services, affordable |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $1-$5/km | Metered taxis, affordable |
| Ride-Hailing | Sarajevo, Mostar | $3-$5 | Bolt and local alternatives available |
| Minibus | Sarajevo, Mostar | $1-$2 | Frequent services, affordable |
Driving
- To drive in Bosnia and Herzegovina, you need a valid driver's license and car insurance.
- The country's roads are generally in moderate condition, with some potholes and traffic congestion.
- Fuel costs are relatively affordable, with a liter of gasoline costing around $1.20 USD.
- It's recommended to rent a car from a reputable company, such as Eurocar or Hertz, which have offices at the airports and in major cities.
- Be aware of potential hazards such as aggressive drivers, pedestrians, and livestock on the roads.
- It's also recommended to have a GPS device or a mapping app on your smartphone to navigate the country's roads.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of potential scams, such as overcharging by taxi drivers or unofficial tour guides.
- Use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams.
- Download the Bolt app to use ride-hailing services in Sarajevo and Mostar.
- Use cash or credit cards to pay for transportation, as not all providers accept foreign currencies.
- Be prepared for potential delays and traffic congestion, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Learn some basic Bosnian phrases, such as "thank you" (hvala) and "excuse me" (izvinjavam se), to interact with locals.
- Use reputable bus and train companies to avoid overcrowding and delays.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when traveling to rural areas.