Ready to explore Bosnia and Herzegowina? As a stunning destination, it's famous for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. In this travel cost guide, we've got all the practical info you need to plan a fantastic trip without breaking the bank. From hotel rates and food costs to sightseeing prices and transportation, we've covered everything because we have a huge amount of data from previous travelers.
How much does it cost to travel to Bosnia and Herzegowina?
You should plan to spend around $92 (KM167) per day on your vacation in Bosnia and Herzegowina. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $46 (KM84) on meals
- $7.92 (KM14) on local transportation
- $64 (KM117) on hotels
A one week trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina for two people costs, on average, $1,282 (KM2,338). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$641
KM1,169
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,282
KM2,338
-
One Month
Per person
$2,747
KM5,010
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,282
KM2,338
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,564
KM4,676
-
One Month
For a couple
$5,494
KM10,020
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina cost?
A one week trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina usually costs around $641 (KM1,169) for one person and $1,282 (KM2,338) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina on average costs around $1,282 (KM2,338) for one person and $2,564 (KM4,676) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Bosnia and Herzegowina will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina on average costs around $2,747 (KM5,010) for one person and $5,494 (KM10,020) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Bosnia and Herzegowina expensive to visit?
Bosnia and Herzegowina is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Bosnia and Herzegowina is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Ukraine, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands.
From budget-friendly stays to high-end hotels, Bosnia and Herzegowina has something to offer every traveler with different spending habits and travel preferences. In Sarajevo and Mostar, budget options like hostels are available, but if you're after something more luxurious, there are plenty of high-end hotels, as well as mid-range spots for families and couples.
Bosnia and Herzegowina doesn't have to break the bank if you follow simple tips like eating at less expensive restaurants, taking public transit, and enjoying free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $37 (KM67) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $93 (KM167) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $229 (KM411) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Bosnia and Herzegowina.
For more details, see Is Bosnia and Herzegowina Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina?
The average Bosnia and Herzegowina trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Bosnia and Herzegowina travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Bosnia and Herzegowina cost?
Bosnia and Herzegowina on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$13
(KM24)
|
$32
(KM59)
|
$77
(KM140)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$3.23
(KM5.89)
|
$7.92
(KM14)
|
$19
(KM34)
|
|
Food 2
|
$18
(KM33)
|
$46
(KM84)
|
$116
(KM211)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$3.74
(KM6.82)
|
$9.01
(KM16)
|
$20
(KM37)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$1-3
(KM2-5)
|
$2-6
(KM4-12)
|
$5-14
(KM9-26)
|
Sarajevo
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to have realistic expectations for your budget. Many people assume that they're a "budget" traveler, and some believe that they will spend just $37 per day in Bosnia and Herzegowina, the reality is, most people are not comfortable traveling in that style. Consider what you really enjoy and how you've traveled in the past. Do you prefer resorts, vacation rentals, or hostels? Is dining out important to you? Your answers to these questions will affect your overall travel budget.
What Defines a Budget Traveler?
Many people hear that you can visit Bosnia and Herzegowina for $37 per day, but unless you're willing to eliminate a lot of comforts from your trip, prepare to spend a significant amount more.
Backpackers can often get away with this shoestring budget, but it usually involves staying in hostel dorms, eating at the cheapest restaurants or fast food places, taking public transit or walking, and only visiting free attractions.
Luckily, Bosnia and Herzegowina boasts a wide range of hostels. The highest concentration can be found in Sarajevo and Mostar. There are cities that have reliable public transit systems that help budget-conscious travelers steer clear of expensive taxi or Uber rides. While food is a major attraction for all kinds of visitors to Bosnia and Herzegowina, budget travelers frequently rely on street food or prepare meals in their hostel, which means they might miss out on this culinary aspect of the country.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $93 per person, per day.
Bosnia and Herzegowina has a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals to fit any travel style. You'll likely be cutting your individual costs by sharing your hotel room with a partner, friends, or your kids. In family-friendly spots like , you'll come across plenty of hotels and restaurants designed with kids in mind. In Mostar, check out Motel Argentum, or consider Pansion Villa Cardak in Mostar. For more family and couples options, see our hotel guide for Bosnia and Herzegowina here.
Dreaming of a Stylish Getaway?
If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $229. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Mostar and Sarajevo. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as Incredible Bosnia: UNESCO sites and other beautiful destinations together with off the beaten path historical places on a 17-days tour from Sarajevo - offered by Monterrasol Travel.
Accommodation Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Bosnia and Herzegowina can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Bosnia and Herzegowina for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $64 (KM117). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $32 (KM59) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Bosnia and Herzegowina? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Sarajevo
As a hidden gem, Sarajevo offers a variety of hotel options at a range of prices. You'll find typical hotel prices from $27 in the low season to $153 during the busy peak season. If you're looking for some good options, you should check out Becar Pyramid Rooms for $35 and Hotel Colors Inn starting at $80. If you stay in a hostel, you can expect to pay around $12 for a dorm bed.
Local Transportation Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $7.92 (KM14) per person, per day, on local transportation in Bosnia and Herzegowina. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Bosnia and Herzegowina is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$7.92
KM14
The train system in Bosnia and Herzegowina is exceptional, connecting you to nearly everywhere in the country. Fares are reasonable, and the rides offer comfort and speed. For destinations not served by rail, long-distance and regional buses can fill the gap.
If you're looking to save money, public transit is the best way to get around. Many places have reliable public transportation systems. Some of the best include Sarajevo. Many travelers like to experience places on foot. This lets you get up close and personal with different neighborhoods and the local culture. If you like walking, you'll enjoy your time in these cities.
If you're in larger cities like Sarajevo and plan to use public transit often, consider getting a multi-day pass. Depending on your usage, this could save you a significant amount compared to purchasing single tickets.
When planning a trip to the countryside, renting a car is likely the best option. Just remember that the standard vehicle in Europe is often a manual transmission, and choosing an automatic can raise your rental costs. Be sure to reserve your car well in advance since budget-friendly options can get booked up fast.
If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.
Listed below are some transit expenses in Bosnia and Herzegowina, taken from reports by other travelers. These costs offer a snapshot of transportation prices in the city to give you an idea of what to expect. Keep in mind that your costs may differ, especially if you opt for more expensive options like taxis, which typically cost more than public transportation.
Food Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Bosnia and Herzegowina is $46 (KM84) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$46
KM84
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Bosnia and Herzegowina is around $47 (KM84) per person, with previous travelers spending from $19 to $118. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Bosnia and Herzegowina are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $23
- Dinner: $16 to $37
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Bosnian cuisine includes many delicious and richly flavored dishes. Almost every dish includes some type of meat item, so vegetarians will be hard pressed to find something traditional that they can eat. Even vegetable dishes are often flavored with bacon or pork, so inquire before you order. Meat dishes include kebabs, pastries, and patties that are quite hearty and filling.
Cevapi: This is a Bosnian kebab dish that is made from ground beef and lamb and served with pita or rice. It uses many popular spices and has a strong, but excellent flavor. It makes for a great lunch or dinner option.
Borek: This is a filo pastry dish that is filled with beef and spices or feta and spinach and served with sour cream. It's a popular "fast food" option. It's usually formed into spirals on a large, flat baking sheet and served in small, local restaurants. It's a good, cheap option if you're looking for something filling.
Sarma: This is a traditional cabbage and meat dish that is served with spices. It is a great dinner option and is available in many different restaurants.
Famed for its exceptional food, Bosnia and Herzegowina is a culinary destination admired around the world. Many people travel specifically to savor the local cuisine. The best cities for foodies include Sarajevo.
Sarajevo
One of the best culinary spots in Bosnia and Herzegowina is Sarajevo. Bosnia isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think of food, but it is actually among the best. The dishes are heavy on meat and pastry, with the perfect amount of seasoning. Favorite dishes include Bosnian burek and cevapi. And it's easy to dine your way through this beautiful city as restaurants are very affordable.
If you're on the road with kids, search for restaurants that include a kids' menu. This can save you quite a bit since those options usually come at a lower price. Some restaurants might not showcase their kids meals, so be sure to ask the waiter first.
Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, but some charge extra for this service. Prices and quality can vary based on the hotel. Being informed in advance can help you decide whether to indulge in a lavish hotel buffet or simply visit a nearby bakery or café that may offer cheaper options.
Bring your own water bottle instead of buying drinks at every turn. It's also a sustainable choice for the environment.
Before you head out on a tour, it's important to check which meals are included. If you have to pay for some meals yourself, it could affect your overall budget.
If you want to experience the culture in Bosnia and Herzegowina, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Traditional Bosnian Cooking Class in Mostar with Lunch and Drinks for $64 details
- Bosnian Cooking Lessons for $78 details
- Morning food tour: Start a day like a real Bosnian for $45 details
- Mostar street food tour for $56 details
Below are some standard food costs in Bosnia and Herzegowina, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Bosnia and Herzegowina typically cost an average of $9.01 (KM16) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$9.01
KM16
Bosnia and Herzegowina features many lesser-known destinations that aren't as overrun with tourists, giving you the chance to explore some truly authentic hidden gems. Some of the well-known locations here include .
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Bosnia and Herzegowina. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Mostar,Kravica Waterfall,Blagaj,Počitelj - Day Tour from Sarajevo for $81 details
- The Death of Yugoslavia Tour in Mostar for $42 details
- Sarajevo Grand Tour: Old Town, Olympic Bobsled, War Tunnel & More for $37 details
- War Times Experience in Sarajevo - Half Day Tour for $31 details
Below are a few common prices for sightseeing and activity entry fees in Bosnia and Herzegowina, all of which are based on the reports of previous travelers. These figures should give you a rough estimate of what you can expect to pay. Keep in mind, though, your costs will vary depending on the activities you choose and whether you take advantage of free or budget-friendly options.
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National Museum (for 2)
KM14
Nightlife Budget in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $4.22 (KM7.69) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Bosnia and Herzegowina per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$4.22
KM7.69
Bosnia and Herzegowina offers a lively nightlife atmosphere, featuring a variety of bars, clubs, and festive parties. Among the top cities for nightlife are Sarajevo.
Sarajevo
Visitors love the nightlife in Sarajevo. After immersing yourself in history for the day, the nighttime offers the perfect opportunity to unwind. Locals and tourists come together at the city's many bars and nightclubs where you can listen to music, dance, or chat with locals over a cold beer.
Cutting back on drinks while enjoying the nightlife can really help you save money on your trip.
Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Bosnia and Herzegowina. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:
- Wine Tour & Tasting (Herzegovina) for $90 details
- 1-Hour Wine Tasting Tour in Medjugorje for $16 details
- Private Wine Tasting and Tradition Tour in Banja Luka for $64 details
Below are some common prices for alcohol and nightlife in Bosnia and Herzegowina, based on actual traveler experiences. While these numbers offer an idea of what you might spend, your costs will vary depending on how often you drink and the amount you order. If you're aiming to save money, cutting back on alcohol is a great way to lower your travel expenses.
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A Few Drinks (for 2)
KM12
Traveling in Bosnia and Herzegowina
Mostar Old Town
Bosnia and Herzegowina were part of the former Yugoslavia and are located on the Balkan Peninsula in Europe. The country gained its independence in 1992 but a brutal civil war followed between the Serbs, Bosniaks, and Croatians. Signs of the war are still quite evident today all over the country. Despite its brutal past, Bosnia has overcome and developed into a thriving country. Bosnian Muslims, or Bosniaks, once represented the nationality of the region, but the idea of ethnic unity in the area is growing, and diversity is more welcome today.
In addition to its rich and fascinating cultures, the country has stunningly beautiful landscapes in the form of mountains and green rivers. There are countless opportunities to experience the outdoors here, either through rafting, kayaking or hiking. Bosnia is also a great country to visit if you're hoping to take part in some winter sports. Sarajevo actually hosted the Winter Olympics in 1984.
The country is divided into several different regions, with the most frequently visited being the Sarajevo Region. The capital city is a popular destination for its rich culture, traditional old town, and historic nature. Herzegovina, to the south, is traditionally inhabited by the Croats and is a popular destination because of the famed Mostar Bridge. The landscape in the area is also quite beautiful, so if you have time to visit other parts of the region, definitely do. Other regions include the Bosanska Krajina to the northwest, Posavina which follows the Sava River, and the northeast and central parts of the country.
Traveling around Bosnia is best done by bus. There's a very good bus system that will take you almost anywhere in the country. The trains are another option, but many are quite old and slow. The tracks have also been heavily damaged so there is frequent disruption in the service.
At A Glance
- There is still a threat of landmines throughout most of Bosnia. If you're driving in the area it is best to remain on paved roads. If you're hiking, stay on marked trails that are well frequented. When in doubt, ask a local and they will likely be informed on the area. Generally, stay away from areas where you know there is a concern for landmines and you should be okay.
- It is very easy to travel to Bosnia by bus from the nearby countries. Most buses will drop you off at the main bus station in Sarajevo. There are frequent buses from the more popular destinations including Dubrovnik, Zagreb, Belgrade, Rijeka and Pula, among others. The buses are usually modern coaches that are in good condition. Breakdowns are rare.
- Hitchhiking is an option in Bosnia, but like elsewhere, do stay hyper vigilant regarding your safety. It's a great way to meet locals who you are unlikely to interact with otherwise. Also, stay aware of the landmine threat and make sure your vehicle does not leave the paved road. Generally, you don't have to wait long to find a ride, but along less popular routes it can be a challenge.
- It is best to exchange your money within the country, or withdraw cash from an ATM, as this will likely give you the best exchange rate. There are many different cash exchange venues in the larger cities. Also make sure you exchange all of your konvertibilna marka back to euros or dollars before leaving the country. If you don't, you're unlikely to find anybody outside of the country who will change the money for you.
- Many people enjoy shopping in Bosnia as there are many local items that make interesting souvenirs. There are some great larger shopping malls around where you can get typical, western clothes and items, but if you're looking for something that is locally made, head to the markets and old towns. There are many different crafts, fabrics, and kitchen goods available. Prices are usually negotiable so you can have fun trying to haggle with the shopkeeper as well.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Mostar's Old Bridge: This famous and quintessential sight in Bosnia signifies unity in the country. It's a very scenic and historic bridge that crosses over the Neretva River. It was destroyed during the war in the nineties, but has since been rebuilt and is now a popular destination for travelers.
Jajce: This beautiful small town is famous for the waterfalls that are in its downtown area. The town is quaint and historic, dating back to the fourteenth century. It's located in the central part of the country and is relatively easy and convenient to reach from most of the major cities.
Sarajevo's Old Town: Sarajevo is a wonderful mix of old and new. It has a diversity of cultures, activities, and entertainment. One of the most attractive areas is the old town, which has many of the most recognizable sights and best shopping opportunities. It's possible to find accommodation in a local home in or around the old town, which can be a very rewarding and enjoyable experience.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.