There's more to Bosnia and Herzegovina than just the war-torn history that the country is often known for. This small Balkan nation is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe, as well as a diverse range of cultures and traditions.
Here are 10 of the most historical and picturesque places to visit.
1. Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it's definitely worth a visit. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and you can find architecture from a variety of different periods – from Ottoman to Austro-Hungarian such as the Latin Bridge, where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated, which sparked World War I.
There's plenty to see and do in Sarajevo, from visiting the many museums like the War Childhood Museum, to strolling through the old town, to taking a cable car up to the top of Mt. Trebević for some stunning views of the city. And of course, no visit to Sarajevo would be complete without trying some of the traditional Bosnian food like ćevapi or burek.
2. Mostar
Mostar is a city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it's best known for its Ottoman-style bridge - Old Bridge. The bridge was built in the 16th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Mostar is also home to a number of other historic buildings, as well as some great views of the surrounding countryside. If you're a fan of hiking and panoramic views you should consider visiting Skywalk at Fortica.
3. Travnik
Travnik is a small city located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's probably best known for being the former capital of the Ottoman province of Bosnia.
Travnik is a great place to learn about Bosnian history and culture, and there are plenty of historic buildings and monuments to see like the Travnik Fortress. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Bosniak Institute which houses a collection of Bosniak culture and history.
4. Jajce
Jajce is another small city located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's best known for its medieval fortress, which was built in the 14th century.
The fortress is definitely worth a visit, but Jajce also has plenty of other things to see and do. There are a number of churches and monasteries in the city, as well as Jajce's signature waterfalls, which are located just outside of the city center.
5. Banja Luka
Banja Luka is the second-largest city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and it's located in the north of the country. The city has a long history, dating back to Roman times.
Nowadays, Banja Luka is a modern city with plenty to see and do. There are a number of museums worth visiting, like the Museum of Contemporary Art, as well as parks and other green spaces to relax. And if you're a fan of shopping, you'll find plenty of shops selling everything from clothes to souvenirs.
6. Bihac
Bihac is a city located in northwestern Bosnia and Herzegovina, close to the border with Croatia. The city has a long history, dating back to the Ottoman Empire.
Nowadays, Bihac is best known for its many mosques, as well as its traditional Bosnian food. There are also a number of parks and other green spaces in the city, making it a great place to relax.
Japodian Islands is a group of small islands in the river Una located near Bihac. The islands are considered to be a part of 'Una National Park' and are best known for their beautiful, clear waters.
7. Zenica
Zenica is a city located in central Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's best known for its steel industry, which has been an important part of the city's economy for many years. The steel factory is definitely worth a visit, but Zenica also has plenty of other things to see and do.
Zenica is also home to a number of historic buildings like the Zenica Mosque, as well as a number of museums. And if you're a fan of nature, you'll find plenty of parks and other green spaces to explore.
8. Doboj
Doboj is a city located in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's best known for its 13th-century fortress, which is one of the best-preserved fortresses in the country.
The fortress was built for protection and it served as a key defensive point during various wars throughout history. Besides the fortress, Doboj has plenty of other things to see and do. For the ones who love history, there are a number of churches and monasteries in the city.
9. Trebinje
Trebinje is a city located in southeastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's best known for its Ottoman-style architecture, as well as its many vineyards.
This small town has become a famous tourist destination due to its lovely old town, which is full of charming buildings and cobbled streets. Taking that into account, many hotels and apartments found their place in Trebinje. You can find lovely apartments overlooking the city or you can choose one of the many luxury hotels located in or near the old town.
Trebinje is also home to a number of historic buildings, as well as some great views of the surrounding countryside.
10.Tuzla
Tuzla is a city located in northeastern Bosnia and Herzegovina. It's best known for its salt mines, which have been in operation for centuries. The city is also home to a number of universities and museums.
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