Is Bosnia Safe? What Tourists Need to Know (2026)
Yes, Bosnia is safe for tourists. Crime rates are lower than most Western European capitals. The 1990s war ended 30 years ago. Mostar and Sarajevo are thriving tourist cities. The only practical concern is landmines in remote rural areas — stay on paved roads and marked paths and you'll never encounter one.
This is the question everyone Googles before booking a trip to Bosnia, and the answer is straightforward: yes, Bosnia is safe for tourists. Very safe. The war ended in 1995 — thirty years ago. Mostar and Sarajevo are thriving tourist cities with hotels, restaurants, and travelers from everywhere. Crime rates are lower than most Western European capitals.
But the question keeps coming up, so let’s address every concern honestly.
How safe is Bosnia for tourists?
Bosnia has very low crime rates. Violent crime against tourists is essentially unheard of. Petty theft exists in crowded tourist spots (same as anywhere) but even that is rare. Mostar and Sarajevo feel safe walking at night.
People in Bosnia are genuinely welcoming to visitors. Hospitality is a deep cultural value — you’ll be offered coffee and conversation more often than you’d expect.
Are there still landmines in Bosnia?
This is the one that worries people most, and it deserves a clear answer.
Yes, there are still landmines in Bosnia — remnants from the 1992–95 war. Demining is ongoing and significant progress has been made, but some rural and mountainous areas still have unexploded ordnance.
The practical reality for tourists: Landmines are in rural areas, forests, and abandoned buildings — not in cities, towns, or on paved roads. If you’re visiting Mostar, Sarajevo, Dubrovnik-to-Mostar route, Kravica Waterfalls, Pocitelj, Blagaj, or any normal tourist destination, mines are not a concern.
The rule is simple: Stay on paved roads, marked paths, and established trails. Don’t walk into overgrown fields or abandoned buildings in the countryside. If you see red warning signs with a skull symbol, take them seriously.
In a private transfer, your driver follows established roads. There is zero mine risk on any tourist route.
Is the war still visible in Bosnia?
You’ll see evidence of the 1990s war — bullet holes in some buildings, rebuilt structures, and memorials. This isn’t a sign of danger; it’s history. Bosnians are open about discussing the war if you ask respectfully, and war-related museums and sites are among the most powerful experiences you can have here.
Important: Bosnia is a multi-ethnic country (Bosniak, Croat, Serb). Politics can be sensitive. As a tourist, you don’t need to navigate this — just be respectful if the topic comes up, the way you would discussing any country’s difficult history.
Is it safe to drive in Bosnia?
Roads in Bosnia vary. Main highways and the routes between major cities are well-maintained. Rural roads can be narrow, winding, and less maintained. This is one reason many travelers choose private transfers — local drivers know the roads intimately.
Winter driving in the mountains requires experience. Roads between Sarajevo and Mostar can get icy from November to March.
Health and water
Tap water is safe to drink in Sarajevo and Mostar. Healthcare is adequate in cities — there are hospitals and pharmacies. Travel insurance is always recommended.
Scams and hassles
Bosnia has very little of the tourist-targeting behavior you find in more developed tourist destinations. No one is going to overcharge you for a taxi (meters are standard), sell you fake goods, or run restaurant scams. Prices are genuine and haggling isn’t expected.
The most common “hassle” is bridge divers in Mostar asking for donations before jumping — which is a legitimate tradition, not a scam.
Tips for staying safe
- Carry your passport when crossing borders (obviously)
- Stay on marked paths in nature areas
- Don’t explore abandoned buildings
- Standard city precautions — watch belongings in crowds, lock hotel rooms
- If driving, don’t speed on mountain roads
- Drink the coffee, eat the cevapi, accept the hospitality
The bottom line
Bosnia is safer than most places tourists travel regularly. The 1990s war is history, not current reality. The country welcomes over a million tourists a year and the number grows annually because people go, feel safe, and tell their friends.
Related reading: How Much Does a Bosnia Trip Cost? · Border Crossings in the Balkans · Things to Do in Sarajevo · Things to Do in Mostar
Popular transfers to Bosnia: Dubrovnik to Mostar · Dubrovnik to Sarajevo · Split to Mostar · Day Trips from Mostar
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