Sarajevo Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Sarajevo.
Healthcare System
Bosnia and Herzegovina has a two-tier healthcare system with public and private facilities. The public system provides universal coverage to residents, while private clinics offer faster service and often better facilities. Healthcare standards are adequate but may not match Western European or North American expectations.
Hospitals
Main hospitals include Klinički centar Univerziteta u Sarajevu (Clinical Center) and Opća bolnica Prim. dr. Abdulah Nakaš (General Hospital). For tourists, private clinics like Eurofarm Policlinika and Bahtijarević Medical Center offer better service with English-speaking doctors. The French Hospital (Bolnica Francuske) is another option with international standards.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (apoteke) are widely available throughout Sarajevo and well-stocked with common medications. Many medications available by prescription only in other countries can be purchased over the counter. Pharmacists are generally knowledgeable and some speak English. Major international brands are available, though local equivalents are cheaper.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is strongly recommended and may be required for visa entry. The public healthcare system does not cover tourists, and even basic treatment can be expensive without insurance. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation, as serious conditions may require transfer to Western Europe.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring sufficient supplies of any prescription medications, as specific brands may not be available
- Carry a copy of prescriptions and medical records in English
- Private clinics require payment upfront; keep receipts for insurance claims
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Sarajevo, but bottled water is widely available
- Pharmacies operate on a rotation system for 24-hour service; check posted schedules or ask your accommodation
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur occasionally in crowded tourist areas, public transportation, and markets. Thieves typically target distracted tourists with visible valuables or unsecured bags.
While Sarajevo city center is completely safe, some rural and mountainous areas outside the city still contain unexploded landmines and ordnance from the 1990s conflict. These pose a serious risk to those who venture off marked paths.
Driving standards can be erratic, with aggressive driving, speeding, and poor road conditions common. Pedestrians should be cautious as drivers don't always yield at crosswalks. Winter driving is particularly hazardous.
Sarajevo experiences significant air pollution, especially during winter months when temperature inversions trap emissions from heating, traffic, and industry in the valley. This can affect those with respiratory conditions.
Stray dogs are present in some areas of the city. While most are harmless, some may be territorial or carry diseases. Dog attacks are rare but possible.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Some unlicensed or unscrupulous taxi drivers target tourists at the airport, bus station, or tourist areas, charging inflated rates or taking unnecessarily long routes. They may claim the meter is broken or quote exorbitant flat rates.
Unofficial exchange offices or individuals may offer attractive rates but use rigged calculators, provide counterfeit bills, or use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists. Some may advertise 'no commission' but offer terrible exchange rates.
Some restaurants in tourist areas may add items you didn't order to the bill, charge for bread or condiments that should be free, or apply unexpected service charges. Menus may not show prices clearly.
Individuals, sometimes children or people claiming to represent charities or be deaf/mute, approach tourists with clipboards asking for signatures and donations. These are typically scams, and signing may commit you to a 'donation.'
One person creates a distraction (spilling something on you, asking for directions with a map, or creating a commotion) while an accomplice steals your wallet, phone, or bag.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
General Safety
- Register with your embassy if staying for an extended period
- Keep copies of important documents (passport, insurance) separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Learn a few basic phrases in Bosnian (hello: zdravo, thank you: hvala, help: pomoć)
- Keep emergency numbers saved in your phone
- Be aware that Sarajevo has a complex ethnic and political situation; avoid political discussions and demonstrations
Money and Valuables
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours when possible
- Don't carry large amounts of cash; cards are widely accepted in the city center
- Use hotel safes for passports and extra cash
- Keep a small amount of emergency cash separate from your main wallet
- Be discreet when using ATMs and shield your PIN
- Notify your bank of travel plans to avoid card blocks
Transportation
- Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps rather than unmarked vehicles
- Be cautious when crossing streets; drivers may not yield to pedestrians
- Trams are safe and efficient; buy tickets at kiosks before boarding
- If renting a car, get comprehensive insurance and be prepared for aggressive driving
- Avoid driving in the old town's narrow streets; park outside and walk
- Keep car doors locked and valuables out of sight when parked
Accommodation
- Book accommodations through reputable platforms with reviews
- Verify the exact location; some listings may be farther from the center than advertised
- Keep windows and doors locked, especially on ground floors
- Use the door viewer before opening to strangers
- Store valuables in room safes or at reception
- Know the emergency exits in your hotel or apartment
Food and Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink in Sarajevo, but bottled water is available if preferred
- Choose busy restaurants with good reviews; high turnover means fresher food
- Be cautious with street food in very hot weather
- Wash hands frequently, especially before eating
- Traditional Bosnian food is generally safe; enjoy local specialties like ćevapi and burek
Cultural Sensitivity
- Dress modestly when visiting mosques (cover shoulders and knees; women should cover hair)
- Remove shoes when entering mosques and some traditional homes
- Be respectful when photographing religious sites; ask permission for people
- Avoid discussing the 1990s war unless locals bring it up; it remains a sensitive topic
- Respect the multi-ethnic nature of the city; avoid making assumptions about people's backgrounds
- Tipping 10% is appreciated but not mandatory; round up for good service
Outdoor Activities
- Hire local guides for hiking or mountain activities outside the city
- Never venture off marked trails due to potential landmine risk in rural areas
- Check weather conditions before mountain excursions; conditions can change rapidly
- Bring appropriate gear for hiking, including sturdy boots and layers
- Inform someone of your plans when hiking outside the city
- The 1984 Olympic mountains (Bjelašnica, Jahorina) are popular and safe for skiing and hiking on marked trails
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Sarajevo is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female travelers. The city has a relatively conservative but welcoming culture. Women may receive some attention, particularly if traveling alone, but harassment is not common. Most interactions will be respectful, and locals are often helpful. Standard precautions apply, particularly at night.
- Dress modestly to blend in; while not required, it shows respect and may reduce unwanted attention
- Avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit areas; use taxis after dark
- Be firm but polite in declining unwanted attention; most men will respect a clear 'no'
- Consider wearing a fake wedding ring if uncomfortable with attention
- Sit near other women or families on public transportation if possible
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Join group tours or activities to meet other travelers
- Keep your accommodation address private; don't share with casual acquaintances
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers in bars
- Women-only accommodations are available if preferred
- Local women are generally friendly and can be good sources of advice
- Sarajevo has a significant Muslim population; respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the age of consent is equal. However, there are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity. Same-sex marriage and civil unions are not recognized. Hate crimes based on sexual orientation are not specifically addressed in law.
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection; same-sex couples should avoid holding hands or kissing in public
- Research LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations in advance; some international hotel chains are more welcoming
- Be cautious about discussing sexual orientation or gender identity with strangers
- Avoid LGBTQ+-specific venues if they exist, as they may be targets for harassment (the scene is very limited)
- Connect with local LGBTQ+ organizations online before traveling for current advice (Sarajevo Open Centre is one resource)
- Be aware that staff at some establishments may not be welcoming if they perceive you as LGBTQ+
- Consider presenting as 'friends' or 'travel companions' when booking accommodations or in conservative areas
- The annual Queer Festival (Merlinka Festival) occurs in Sarajevo but maintains a low profile
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels uncomfortable, remove yourself
- Keep emergency contacts readily available
- Be particularly cautious outside the city center and in more traditional neighborhoods
- Some younger locals and expats are supportive; look for international cafes and cultural spaces
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for visiting Sarajevo and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The public healthcare system does not cover tourists, and medical treatment must be paid for out-of-pocket without insurance. Even basic emergency care can be expensive. For serious medical conditions, evacuation to Western Europe may be necessary, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars without coverage. Additionally, insurance protects against trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other travel disruptions.
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