Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Located within the greater Sarajevo valley of Bosnia, it is surrounded by the Dinaric Alps and situated along the Miljacka River in the Balkans, a region of Southern Europe.
Warnings & Dangers in Sarajevo
OVERALL RISK : LOW
In general, Sarajevo is a fairly safe city to travel to, but you should use common sense, watch your belongings and your surroundings.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW
Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.
PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
Pickpocketing occurs in Milan at every turn, so wear an anti-theft backpack, look after your belongings, and don't leave your phones and wallets unattended. In crowded places, keep an eye on your surroundings.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
Sarajevo is at risk of flooding. In the history of the city, there have already been serious destructions associated with this. Check the weather conditions before your trip here.
MUGGING RISK : LOW
The risk of serious robbery and armed attack in Sarajevo is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and do not walk late at night in areas remote from the city center.
TERRORISM RISK : LOW
The risk of terrorism is low in this city. Of course, the risk of attacks still exists due to the international position of the city. The global risk of terrorist attacks in public areas exists worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.
SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Sarajevo. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.
How Safe Is Sarajevo for Tourists?
Sarajevo is a relatively safe city to travel to.
The crime index here is at an average level.
The main problems are associated with petty theft, vandalism, and corruption.
Usually, there are no particular problems for travelers when visiting Sarajevo.
It should be remembered that there are still minefields and unexploded ordnance in the vicinity of the city.
Never enter remotely damaged buildings and always stick to paved surfaces.
Uncleared areas are marked with yellow tape or signs, but still, not all minefields have been identified.
If you are talking to locals, avoid topics about politics.
They can be controversial.
There are a lot of pickpockets in public transport and tourist places.
Use common sense (for example, keep valuables in the inner pockets of your jacket/coat) as in any big city, and you must be safe.
If you are traveling in your car, always park in guarded parking lots and do not leave anything valuable inside the car.
If beggars or gypsies come up to you, it is better to avoid communicating with them, do not engage in conversation, and try to leave.
Do I Need a Visa to Visit Sarajevo?
Visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina must obtain a visa from one of the Bosnia and Herzegovina diplomatic missions unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. As an applicant country for membership in the European Union, Bosnia and Herzegovina maintain visa policies similar to the visa policy of the Schengen Area.
Which Currency Is Used in Sarajevo?
The Bosnia and Herzegovina convertible mark is the currency of Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is divided into 100 Pfenigs or Fenings.
How's the Weather like in Sarajevo?
In Sarajevo, the summers are warm and mostly clear, and the winters are icy and partly cloudy. The best months for good weather in Sarajevo are July, August, and September.
What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo International Airport, also known as Butmir Airport, is the main international airport of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located 6 km southwest of the railway station of the capital Sarajevo in the suburb of Butmir.
Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?
A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.
What Are Some Things to Do in Sarajevo?
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, a small city on the Miljacka River, surrounded by the Dinaric Mountains. There are several local history museums in the city center, including the Sarajevo 1878–1918 Museum, where you can get acquainted with the history of the assassination of the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914, which became the reason for the outbreak of the First World War. In the old district of Bascarsija, there is a mosque of Gazi Khusrev-bey from the Ottoman Empire.
Is the Water in Sarajevo Safe to Drink?
Tap water is safe to drink.
Is Uber Safe in Sarajevo?
There is no Uber taxi in Sarajevo. You can use any other local taxi services.