The Ultimate 10-Day Bosnia and Herzegovina Itinerary: Hand-Picked Stays, Local Routes, Zero Guesswork
- By StayBa
Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations. Tucked between Croatia, Montenegro and Serbia, it offers dramatic mountains, turquoise rivers, centuries of history, and a warmth of hospitality that often surprises visitors. Ten days is the perfect amount of time to explore the country’s highlights without rushing. This itinerary takes you from Sarajevo’s buzzing streets to Herzegovina’s sunny stone towns, north to the emerald waters of Una National Park, and back through lakes and highlands. Along the way you will find stays that have been carefully selected for character, comfort, and authenticity.
Day 1–2: Sarajevo Region
Why come here first: Sarajevo is the cultural and historical heart of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The city is a living museum of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav eras.
What to see:
- Wander through Baščaršija, the Ottoman old bazaar.
- Ride the cable car up Trebević for sweeping views.
- Visit the Tunnel of Hope, which kept the city alive during the 1990s siege.
- Stop in at the National Museum and the Sarajevo City Hall.
Food to try: Cevapi, burek, and traditional Bosnian coffee served in copper džezvas.
Where to stay:
- Sarajevo Old Town apartments for a base in the heart of Baščaršija.
- Villas with hot tubs in Ilidža close to the thermal springs and nature parks.
- Mountain chalets in Bjelašnica if you want to begin your trip surrounded by alpine air.
Day 3–4: Herzegovina
Why it matters: Herzegovina is the sun-drenched southern part of the country. Summers are hot, the landscape is rocky and Mediterranean, and culture blends Ottoman and Dalmatian influences.
What to see:
- Mostar’s Old Bridge, rebuilt after the war and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Dervish House in Blagaj, tucked under a cliff by the source of the Buna river.
- The medieval town of Počitelj with its stone tower and Ottoman houses.
- Trebinje’s vineyards and 15th-century monasteries.
Driving note: Sarajevo to Mostar takes around 2.5 hours. The route follows the Neretva River and is one of the most scenic drives in the Balkans.
Where to stay:
- Traditional Herzegovinian stone houses in Mostar, Počitelj or Stolac.
- Villas with private pools near Trebinje or Čapljina, perfect for hot afternoons.
- Apartments with Old Bridge views in Mostar for that iconic photo right from your balcony.
Day 5–6: Krajina and Una National Park
Why come here: The northwestern Krajina region is defined by the emerald Una River. It is less visited, which makes it feel even more special.
What to see:
- Štrbački Buk and Martin Brod, two of the most powerful waterfalls in the Balkans.
- Una National Park, a paradise of rivers, forests, and wildlife.
- Rafting trips from Bihać, ranging from easy family floats to adrenaline-filled rapids.
Driving note: Mostar to Bihać is a long haul of about 6.5 hours. Break it in Jajce for a more comfortable journey.
Where to stay:
- Riverside lodges in Bihać with decks right above the water.
- Family cottages in Lohovo and Ripač with fenced gardens and outdoor seating.
- Eco-lodges near the national park for a mix of comfort and nature.
Day 7: Jajce and Pliva Lakes
Why it’s worth a stop: Jajce is famous for its waterfall right in the town center, where the Pliva River drops into the Vrbas.
What to see:
- The waterfall and medieval fortress above the old town.
- The wooden Pliva watermills.
- Kayak or paddle on the Pliva lakes.
Where to stay:
- Cottages on Pliva Lake with private piers.
- Family homes with gardens that make exploring easy with kids.
Driving note: Bihać to Jajce is around 2.5 hours.
Day 8: Travnik and Vlašić
Why include it: Travnik was once the capital of Ottoman Bosnia. It is a compact town full of heritage, and the nearby Vlašić mountain is a cool retreat.
What to see:
- Travnik fortress and panoramic views of the valley.
- The Colorful Mosque with its painted interior.
- Vlašić mountain for hiking in summer and skiing in winter.
Where to stay:
- Modern apartments in Travnik close to markets and historic mosques.
- Cabins and ski apartments on Vlašić with fireplaces and views.
Driving note: Jajce to Travnik is about one hour, and another 40 minutes up to Vlašić.
Day 9: Bjelašnica and Lukomir
Why it’s unique: Lukomir is Bosnia’s highest and most isolated village, sitting at 1,495 meters. Traditional stone houses, sheep pastures, and mountain views make it unforgettable.
What to do:
- Hike from Umoljani or Bjelašnica to Lukomir.
- Sample traditional pita and mountain tea.
- Photograph the stone houses with the Rakitnica Canyon in the background.
Where to stay:
- Secluded forest and mountain cabins near Bjelašnica ski resort.
- Ethno-homes in Lukomir that let you experience traditional life.
Driving note: Access is seasonal. Roads may close in heavy snow from November to April.
Day 10: Return to Sarajevo
Why return here: Sarajevo is the cultural bookend of your journey.
What to see:
- Museums such as the War Childhood Museum or the National Museum.
- Shopping in Baščaršija for copperwork and traditional crafts.
- Relaxing with Bosnian coffee one more time before departure.
Where to stay:
- Central Sarajevo apartments for a quick ride to the airport.
- Boutique hotels in Baščaršija if you want to end on a high note.
Practical Travel Notes
- Best time to visit: May to October is best for hiking, rafting, and warm weather. December to March is ski season.
- Transport: A car is essential. Highways are good, but mountain roads are narrow. Budget for tolls and fuel stops.
- Money: The currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM). Many places accept euros, but it is best to carry BAM.
- SIM and internet: Prepaid SIMs are cheap and reliable. Wi-Fi is widespread in cities and most stays.
- Safety: Bosnia is safe. Roads in winter need caution. Do not wander off marked trails in remote areas due to leftover mines in very isolated spots, although tourist routes are cleared.
Curated Stays at a Glance
- Sarajevo Region: Old Town apartments, villas with hot tubs, mountain chalets.
- Herzegovina: Stone houses, villas with pools, apartments with bridge views.
- Krajina/Una: Riverside lodges, family cottages, eco-lodges.
- Jajce/Pliva: Lakeside cottages, family homes.
- Travnik/Vlašić: City apartments, ski chalets.
- Bjelašnica/Lukomir: Mountain cabins, ethno-homes.
FAQs
Is 10 days enough to see Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes. This itinerary covers major regions and allows time to enjoy them without rushing.
Do I need a car?
Yes. Public transport connects cities, but not rural stays or national parks. A car provides flexibility.
Can I combine Bosnia with Croatia or Montenegro?
Absolutely. Dubrovnik and Split are within driving distance. Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor is also accessible from Trebinje.
Is Bosnia safe for travelers?
Yes. Cities and tourist areas are safe. Just use common sense as you would anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Bosnia and Herzegovina is a destination of rivers, mountains, and living history. Ten days lets you experience the highlights without being hurried. By choosing carefully selected stays, you connect not just with a place to sleep but with a story, a landscape, and people proud to share them. Whether you are rafting the Una, tasting wine in Trebinje, or sipping coffee in Sarajevo, Bosnia will leave you wanting to return.