Croatia has seen a surge in British tourists over the past few decades, drawn to its stunning Adriatic coastline, vibrant natural beauty and idyllic islands. Many also flock to the experience the vibrant capital city of Dubrovnik.
But thanks to an influx of cheap flights, cruise ships and Game of Thrones fans paying homage to several filming locations, measures have been put in place to limit daily visitors to protect its UNESCO status from overtourism. For travellers looking to avoid the crowds, neighbouring Bosnia and Herzegovina could be the perfect alternative.
Despite only having 12 kms of coastline, this Balkan country offers warm hospitality, hiking and skiing trails, great cuisine, fabulous music and a rich blend of cultural influences. Its capital, Sarajevo, is a bustling city nestled within the greater Sarajevo valley, surrounded by the Dinaric Alps and along the Miljacka River.
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According to the World Tourism Organization, Bosnia and Herzegovina has seen the third-highest tourism growth rate in the world from 1995 to 2020. The country is fast becoming a popular skiing destination and remains one of the Dinaric Alps’ last untouched natural treasures, attracting adventurers and nature lovers with its unspoiled landscapes.
Frequently known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” due to the long-standing diverse religious and cultural influences, the city is home to a unique neighbourhood where a mosque, a Catholic church, an Eastern Orthodox church and a synagogue are all nearby. The city became infamous in 1914 after Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s assassination, which triggered World War One.
Other major cities include Prijedor, in the northwest, Zenica in the country’s heart, and Mostar in the southern Herzegovina region. The country also boasts a small 12-mile coastline along the Adriatic Sea, with the Neum town providing the only access to the sea, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Bosnia has seven major rivers, with the largest one being the Sava river. Mountainous landscapes dominate the country’s terrain, with the 2,386 metres Maglic peak, on the border with Montenegro, being the highest point.
Forests cover nearly half of Bosnia’s land. Continental climate patterns prevail in the country, with hot summers, while Mediterranean weather can be found in the southern region of Herzegovina.
The Tara river, famed for Europe’s deepest river canyon, draws whitewater rafting fans. Additionally, the country’s man-made lakes are a favourite spot for locals to unwind by the water.
Travel Bosnia extended a warm invitation to tourists with a message saying: “Welcome to Bosnia and Herzegovina,” showcasing the nation’s “wealth of cultural and historical heritage, natural beauty and attractive places including our mountains, lakes, beautiful villages, our small towns with great soul”.
At the time of writing, Ryanair is offering flights from the UK for just £15 one way. Although they don’t fly direct from Bristol Airport, a quick hop to Stansted will get you the 2 hour 50 minute flight for less than the price of your lunch at the airport.