How to Plan a Trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina with Children
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Thinking of traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina with children? Plan an unforgettable Bosnia tour with our guide, packed with family-friendly places, activities, and tips from Gezpoint experts!
Hello, traveling families! At Gezpoint, we’re delighted to help you plan your travels around the world. Today, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to planning an unforgettable trip with your children to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Though its heart holds painful memories, the country captivates visitors of all ages with its natural beauty, warm-hearted people, and rich history. This unique Balkan country, which offers visa-free travel, has countless treasures for families to discover together.
Why Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina with Children?
Although the name “Bosnia and Herzegovina” may first bring its tragic history to mind, the country actually offers families plenty of opportunities:
History and Cultural Education: An important experience that can help your children understand the devastating effects of war and appreciate the value of peace. The museums and monuments in Sarajevo offer valuable lessons for young minds. Natural Beauty: Mountains covered in countless shades of green, crystal-clear rivers, and waterfalls (especially the Kravice Waterfalls!) offer wonderful outdoor activities for children. Affordable Travel: A holiday here is more affordable than in other popular European destinations. This means you can stay longer or enjoy more activities without stretching your family budget. Short Flight Time: The short flight from Türkiye makes this a great option for families traveling with young children. Delicious Cuisine: Meatballs, pastries, desserts... It’s easy to find flavors that suit children’s tastes and are similar to Turkish cuisine.
Family-Friendly Destinations and Activities
When planning your Bosnia and Herzegovina tour, remember to add places that will capture your children’s interest to your itinerary:
Sarajevo
Baščaršija: An authentic bazaar whose historic atmosphere, handicraft shops, and local specialties are sure to spark children’s curiosity. Watching artisans at work in the Coppersmiths’ Bazaar can be a fun experience. Tunnel of Hope Museum: An evocative place for older children to understand the realities of war and the struggle to survive. Vrelo Bosne Park: This lush green park, where the Bosna River originates, is ideal for a family picnic or bike ride, with its ponds, swans, and playgrounds. A Tram Ride: Exploring the city on Sarajevo’s historic trams can be a fun, nostalgic experience for children.
Mostar
Stari Most (Old Bridge): Mostar’s iconic bridge and the historic bazaar around it create a fairytale-like atmosphere that will spark children’s imaginations. Watching the young men dive from the bridge can be thrilling (but be sure to observe safety warnings!). Along the Tara River: Relaxing your feet in the river’s cool water or taking a break at one of the nearby cafés is a lovely way to unwind.
Počitelj and Blagaj
Počitelj Village: With its stone houses and historic fortress, it feels like an open-air museum from the Middle Ages. Children will love exploring the fortress. Blagaj Tekke: Built into the base of a cliff at the source of the Neretva River, this fascinating tekke can impress even children with its natural beauty and mystical atmosphere.
Kravice Waterfalls
One of the most captivating natural wonders in Bosnia and Herzegovina! It’s a wonderful place to swim in the cool water during summer, picnic beneath the waterfall, or simply enjoy nature. It’s a stop children are sure to love!
Things to Consider When Planning Your Trip
Transportation
By Air: There are direct flights from Istanbul to Sarajevo. The flight takes approximately 1.5 hours. Car Rental: Renting a car is one of the best options for getting between cities and traveling flexibly. Roads are generally in good condition. Remember to reserve a child seat in advance. Public Transportation: Trams and buses offer affordable options for getting around the city.
Accommodation
Family-Friendly Hotels: Choose hotels with spacious rooms, children’s beds, or connecting rooms. Playgrounds and kids’ clubs are a bonus. Apartments and Aparthotels: Apartments that let you prepare your own meals can be a more affordable and convenient option for families with children.
Food and Drink
Bosnian Cuisine: Dishes such as ćevapi (meatballs), burek (savory pastry), klepe (dumplings), dolma, and Begova čorba (Bey’s soup) are sure to appeal to children, too. For dessert, you can try trileçe and hurmašica. Family-Friendly Restaurants: Although most restaurants don’t offer children’s menus, it’s easy to find something suitable among the simple, familiar dishes on the menu.
Packing
Dress for the Season: Since this is a mountainous region, the weather can change quickly. Layering is important. Even summer evenings can get chilly. Essential Medication: Pack a small first-aid kit with any medication your children take regularly, pain relievers, fever reducers, and bandages. Entertainment: Bring small toys, books, or a tablet to keep them occupied during long journeys or while waiting for meals.
Activities and Flexibility
Follow Your Children’s Pace: Instead of trying to see too many places each day, take your children’s need for rest and play into account. Outdoor Activities: Parks, riversides, and playgrounds are always good options.
Sample Family-Friendly Bosnia and Herzegovina Itinerary (4–5 Days)
Day 1: Arrive in Sarajevo and check in to your hotel. Explore Baščaršija and try ćevapi. Relax at Vrelo Bosne Park in the late afternoon. Day 2: Enjoy a historical and cultural tour of Sarajevo (the Tunnel of Hope Museum may be suitable for older children), followed by a city tour on a historic tram. Day 3: Travel to Mostar (approximately 2.5–3 hours) and explore Mostar Bridge and the surrounding area. Dinner by the river. Day 4: Visit Blagaj Tekke and Počitelj Village near Mostar. In the afternoon, swim and enjoy the natural scenery at Kravice Waterfalls. Day 5: Travel from Mostar to Sarajevo Airport and fly back to Türkiye.
Extra Tips from Gezpoint Experts
Currency: The convertible mark of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BAM). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but carry cash for small shops and local markets. Language: Bosnian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and among younger people. Older people may speak Turkish. Safety: Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally a safe country. However, as anywhere, it’s a good idea to take basic precautions.
Make Your Dream Bosnia and Herzegovina Tour a Reality with Gezpoint!
Dreaming of an unforgettable trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina with your children? At Gezpoint, we offer Bosnia and Herzegovina tours specially designed around your and your family’s needs. Discover this unique country’s history, culture, and natural beauty safely and comfortably with our expert guides.
Visit the Gezpoint website or get in touch with us today to explore our family-friendly Bosnia and Herzegovina tour packages, tailored just for you! Take the first step toward making unforgettable memories!