Bosnia and Herzegovina: Schengen Guide for UK Travellers
No, Bosnia and Herzegovina is not in the Schengen zone. Days spent here do not count toward your 90-day Schengen limit. Bosnia and Herzegovina is one of Europe's most culturally rich and historically fascinating countries, sitting at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilisations. For UK travellers, it offers a deeply rewarding destination that also serves as a practical clock-pause stop between Schengen neighbours Croatia and Montenegro.
From the Ottoman bazaars and Austro-Hungarian boulevards of Sarajevo to the iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina provides experiences you simply cannot find elsewhere in Europe. The country is affordable, welcoming, and still relatively undiscovered by mass tourism. British visitors are increasingly drawn to its unique blend of Ottoman, Slavic, and Mediterranean culture, its mountain scenery, and its moving recent history.
Key Facts
- Schengen Member: No
- EU Member: No
- Year Joined Schengen: N/A
- Capital: Sarajevo
- Currency: Convertible Mark (BAM)
- Languages: Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian
Bosnia and Herzegovina is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen zone. It is an EU candidate country. Days spent in Bosnia and Herzegovina do not count toward the Schengen 90-day limit.
Visiting Bosnia Between Schengen Trips?
Bosnia and Herzegovina is perfectly positioned as a Schengen clock-pause destination between Croatia and Montenegro. Keep track of which days count and which do not with Entorii, especially when hopping between Schengen and non-Schengen countries in the Balkans.
How Long Can You Stay?
UK citizens can stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days without a visa. This allowance is completely separate from the Schengen 90/180-day rule. You can freely travel between Schengen countries and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with only the Schengen days counting toward your 90-day Schengen limit.
Bosnia and Herzegovina is surrounded by Schengen member Croatia on most sides, making it easy to combine with Croatian travel. Many visitors include Mostar or Sarajevo as a side trip from Dubrovnik or Split. A typical visit lasts 3 to 7 days, though the country has enough to fill two weeks or more if you venture beyond the headline destinations into its mountains, rivers, and smaller towns.
Top Destinations in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo (3-4 days)
A city where Ottoman mosques, Austro-Hungarian architecture, and modern memorials sit side by side. The Bascarsija bazaar, the Latin Bridge, and the Tunnel of Hope museum are unmissable.
Mostar (2-3 days)
The rebuilt Stari Most (Old Bridge) is one of the most photographed landmarks in the Balkans, set above the emerald-green Neretva River.
Kravice Waterfalls (1 day)
A stunning crescent-shaped waterfall near Mostar, perfect for swimming in summer and easily combined with a Mostar visit.
Blagaj (half day)
A Dervish monastery built into a cliff face at the source of the Buna River, just outside Mostar.
Jajce (1-2 days)
A medieval fortress town with a dramatic waterfall in its centre where the Pliva River meets the Vrbas.
Getting There from the UK
Direct flights from London to Sarajevo are operated by Wizz Air from London Luton, with flight times of approximately two hours and 30 minutes. Ryanair also operates seasonal services. Indirect routes via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), Vienna (Austrian Airlines), or Munich (Lufthansa) provide additional options with short layovers. An alternative approach is to fly into Dubrovnik or Split in Croatia and travel overland. Dubrovnik to Mostar is roughly two and a half hours by bus, and Split to Mostar takes around three hours. This is a popular option that allows you to combine Schengen and non-Schengen destinations in one itinerary, though remember the Croatian portion counts as Schengen days.
Travel Tips
The currency is the Convertible Mark (BAM), which is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate. Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but you will get better value using the local currency. ATMs are widely available in cities and larger towns. Credit cards are accepted in hotels and larger restaurants but cash is preferred in smaller establishments, cafes, and markets. Bring euros to exchange locally for the best rates.
Bosnian food is hearty, affordable, and influenced by Ottoman cuisine. Try cevapi (grilled minced meat in flatbread) in Sarajevo's Bascarsija, burek (filled pastry) for breakfast, and Bosnian coffee, which is similar to Turkish coffee and served as a ritual rather than just a drink. Getting around between cities is best done by bus, with regular services linking Sarajevo, Mostar, Jajce, and the Croatian border. Trains exist but are slow and infrequent. Hiring a car is worthwhile for exploring the countryside and river valleys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Schengen zone?
No. Bosnia and Herzegovina is not in the Schengen zone or the European Union. Days spent here do not count toward the 90-day Schengen limit for UK passport holders.
Do UK citizens need a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina?
No. UK passport holders can stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina for up to 90 days without a visa. This is a separate allowance from the Schengen 90/180-day rule.
Can I travel from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina easily?
Yes. The border crossing is straightforward with a UK passport. Popular routes include Dubrovnik to Mostar (approximately two and a half hours by bus) and Split to Mostar (around three hours). Remember that Croatia is in the Schengen zone, so your days there count toward the 90-day limit, while days in Bosnia do not.
What currency is used in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
The Convertible Mark (BAM) is the official currency. It is pegged to the euro at a fixed rate of approximately 1.96 BAM to 1 euro. Euros are occasionally accepted in tourist areas but the local currency is preferred and gives better value.
Is Bosnia and Herzegovina safe for UK travellers?
Yes. Bosnia and Herzegovina is generally safe for tourists. Sarajevo and Mostar are well-established tourist destinations. The main safety consideration unique to the country is that landmines from the 1990s conflict remain in some rural and mountainous areas. Stick to paved roads, marked trails, and populated areas, and do not venture off established paths in the countryside.