Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina 😊

Quick Facts About Bosnia and Herzegovina

Money and Finances

Bosnia and Herzegovina Convertible Mark (BAM) is the official currency. Denominations of coins are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 feninga, and denominations of notes are 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 BAM.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in Bosnia and Herzegovina's major cities and towns. However, it is recommended to use ATMs at banks and shopping centers due to the higher security measures in place.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially in major cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted than American Express, and it is advisable to carry cash as a backup option in case establishments do not accept credit cards.

Internet and Phones

Bosnia and Herzegovina has an average internet speed of 21.7 Mbps for downloads and 7.7 Mbps for uploads. There are no reported government interferences related to internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are three major telco companies in Bosnia and Herzegovina: BH Telecom, m:tel, and Telekom Srpske. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is 15 BAM per month. Sim cards are available for purchase at most convenience stores and mobile phone shops, and there are no known compatibility issues.

Dialling to Bosnia and Herzegovina

To call Bosnia and Herzegovina from another country, dial +387 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used within the country are 30 for Sarajevo, 31 for Tuzla, 32 for Zenica, 33 for Mostar, 34 for Bihac, and 35 for Banja Luka.

Transport Around Bosnia and Herzegovina

Air Travel

Bosnia and Herzegovina has three main international airports: Sarajevo International Airport, Mostar International Airport and Banja Luka International Airport. Sarajevo International Airport is located in the capital city and is the largest airport in the country.

Train Travel

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a limited inter-city train network, but there are some options available. The most popular route is between Sarajevo and Mostar, with ticket prices starting at around €10 and journey times around 2.5 hours.

Metro / Local Trains

There is no metro system in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Buses

Buses are the most common mode of transport in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with extensive networks connecting all major cities. Prices vary depending on the distance, but a ticket from Sarajevo to Mostar costs around €8 and takes around 2.5 hours. There are also international bus connections to neighboring countries.

Rideshare

The popular rideshare service Uber is available in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with prices varying depending on the distance and time of day.

Driving by Car

Driving in Bosnia and Herzegovina can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads, as well as poor road quality in some areas. The speed limit on motorways is 130 km/h, while in cities it is 50 km/h. Bosnia and Herzegovina uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain good eye contact. It is important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the bill or leaving a few extra coins is appreciated. When addressing strangers, it is polite to use formal titles and last names until given permission to use first names. Men and women generally shake hands, but traditional customs may involve bowing or kissing on the cheeks.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a universal healthcare system, but the quality of care varies. Private healthcare is also available for those who can afford it. Visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina should have comprehensive health insurance, as medical treatment can be expensive. A visit to a doctor costs around 30-50 Bosnian Convertible Marks (15-25 Euros).

COVID Situation

Bosnia and Herzegovina has experienced a significant increase in COVID-19 cases in recent months. The government has implemented various measures to contain the spread of the virus, including mandatory mask wearing in public spaces and restrictions on gatherings. As of September 2021, the country has a relatively high case rate of approximately 500 cases per 100,000 people.

Common Health Risks

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the main health risks include tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease, and foodborne illnesses, such as salmonella and hepatitis A. Malaria is not a significant risk in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Visitors should also be aware of air pollution in major cities, particularly during the winter months.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina for those over 18 years of age, but there are restrictions on public consumption and driving under the influence of alcohol is illegal. In some areas, alcohol sale and consumption is prohibited during certain hours or on certain days.

Recreational Drugs

Recreational drug use is illegal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment. This includes soft drugs like cannabis and party drugs.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Pre-marital relationships are accepted and common in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and there are no laws criminalizing them.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Same-sex sexual activity was decriminalized in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1998, however, LGBTQ individuals still face discrimination and there is no legal recognition of same-sex relationships.

Firearms / Guns

Ownership and use of firearms is regulated in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and individuals must have a license to possess and carry firearms. The government strictly regulates the manufacture and possession of automatic and assault weapons.