Car Rental in Sarajevo - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Sarajevo is generally recommended for tourists planning to explore Bosnia and Herzegovina's countryside, historic towns, and natural attractions beyond the capital. The city itself has narrow streets, limited parking, and congested traffic, making a car unnecessary for exploring Sarajevo's compact Old Town and main attractions, which are best covered on foot or by taxi. A rental car becomes valuable for day trips to destinations like Mostar, Jajce, or the Sutjeska National Park, where public transport connections are limited. Bosnia drives on the right side of the road. Road conditions vary significantly – main highways connecting major cities are generally well-maintained, but secondary roads in rural and mountainous areas can be narrow, winding, and poorly marked, especially in winter. Driving can be challenging for tourists unfamiliar with local habits, including assertive driving styles and occasional disregard for traffic rules. Parking in Sarajevo's center is difficult and often requires payment. Mountain roads demand careful navigation, particularly in adverse weather. For visitors staying primarily in Sarajevo, skip the rental; for those planning countryside exploration and multi-day road trips across Bosnia, a car provides essential flexibility and access to remote areas poorly served by public transportation.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for non-EU visitors to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Check current requirements with your rental agency as rules may vary.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with some companies setting higher age limits or charging young driver fees for those under 25.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is required. EU licenses are generally accepted; non-EU visitors should verify acceptance with their rental company.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver's name is typically required for the security deposit. Debit cards are often not accepted by rental agencies.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is usually included, but comprehensive coverage (CDW/theft protection) is strongly recommended. Verify what's covered and consider additional protection.

Passport

A valid passport is required for identification when renting a vehicle in Sarajevo.

Rent from Sarajevo International Airport for convenience, where both international chains and local agencies operate - compare rates through booking platforms as prices vary significantly by season and agency type.

Before driving off, thoroughly document any existing damage with photos and verify you have the vehicle registration, insurance documents, and emergency contact numbers - Bosnian roads can be challenging with varied conditions.

Use offline GPS maps (download beforehand) as mobile data coverage can be spotty in mountainous areas around Sarajevo, and street signage may be in Cyrillic or Latin script depending on the area.

Fill up with fuel before returning as gas stations near the airport may have higher prices - parking in Sarajevo's old town (Baščaršija) is limited, so use designated parking zones and display tickets to avoid fines.

Return the car with the agreed fuel level and allow extra time for the vehicle inspection - take photos of the odometer and fuel gauge as documentation when dropping off at the airport or city location.

Sarajevo's narrow streets in the old town (Baščaršija) and hilly terrain can be challenging for unfamiliar drivers, with steep inclines, tight turns, and limited parking - consider using alternative transportation in the historic center.

Winter driving conditions in Sarajevo require extra caution due to snow, ice, and fog, particularly on hillside roads and mountain passes - winter tires are typically necessary from November through March.

Traffic congestion is common during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (4-7 PM) rush hours, especially on main routes leading in and out of the city center - plan extra travel time during these periods.

Parking enforcement is active in Sarajevo's city center with designated paid zones - verify current parking regulations and payment methods to avoid fines, as rules may differ from other European cities.