WHEN TO TRAVEL to Bosnia-Herzegovina

Location

Climate

Weather and seasons in Bosnia-Herzegovina

The climate in Bosnia-Herzegovina varies considerably from region to region. There are two main types of climate: continental and Mediterranean. Winters are generally cold and snowy, while summers are warm and pleasant. Here's an overview of the four seasons in Bosnia-Herzegovina:

Winter in Bosnia-Herzegovina

From December to February, winter sets in all over Bosnia. Precipitation turns into snowespecially in the mountains, where the layer can exceed one metre. Average temperatures fluctuate between -5°C and 5°C, but can drop as low as -20°C in some regions. For winter sports enthusiasts, this is the ideal time to take advantage of ski resorts such as Jahorina and Bjelašnica.

Spring in Bosnia-Herzegovina

From March to May, spring offers milder weather conditions. Temperatures gradually rise to an average of 15°C. Nature wakes up and Bosnia-Herzegovina is decked out in its most beautiful colors. This is an excellent time to visit the national parks and enjoy the lush green countryside.

Summer in Bosnia-Herzegovina

From June to August, summer sets in, with temperatures rising to 30°C, and even 40°C in some regions. The climate is fairly dry, making outdoor activities very pleasant. This season is ideal for swimming in rivers and lakes, and discovering the country's historical and cultural heritage.

Autumn in Bosnia-Herzegovina

In autumn, from September to November, temperatures gradually drop, with averages between 10°C and 20°C. The landscapes take on a palette of autumnal colors, offering a unique and unforgettable spectacle. This period is ideal for hikers and photographers.

Major cultural events in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina offers a wide range of major cultural events throughout the year. Here is a selection of the most important events not to be missed:

• Sarajevo International Film Festival Held in July or August, this festival is the biggest film event in the Balkans, bringing together directors, actors and professionals from all over the world.
• Bascarsija Nights Sarajevo: throughout July, Sarajevo's Old Town is transformed into a cultural stage with free performances of music, dance, theater and poetry.
• Jazz Fest Sarajevo In November, this festival brings together international jazz artists for a series of concerts in the Bosnian capital.
• Sarajevo Winter Festival From February to March, this multidisciplinary festival celebrates arts and culture with exhibitions, concerts, performances and workshops.

Public holidays in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Finally, here is an overview of the main public holidays in Bosnia and Herzegovina:

• New Year (January 1)
• Independence Day (March 1): commemoration of independence from the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia in 1992.
• Labour Day (May 1st)
• Army Day (April 6): commemoration of the armed resistance during the war of independence in 1992.
• Orthodox Christmas (January 7) and Catholic Christmas (December 25)
• Orthodox Easter And Catholic Easter dates vary from year to year.

Immigration statistics for Bosnia-Herzegovina

According to official figures, the population of Bosnia-Herzegovina will be around 3.5 million in 2020. Immigration plays an important role, with :

• A net immigration rate of -0.6 per 1,000 inhabitants in 2019;
• More than 12,000 asylum applications registered between 2018 and 2020;
• Around 2 % of the total population was born abroad.

It is interesting to note that immigration to Bosnia-Herzegovina is mainly made up of nationals from neighboring countries, such as the Croatiathe Serbia or the Montenegro.

Main reasons for immigration to Bosnia-Herzegovina

Immigrants come to Bosnia-Herzegovina for a variety of reasons:

• Job search : Many foreign workers come to Bosnia-Herzegovina to find employment, particularly in the construction, industrial and commercial sectors.
• Family reunification: Some immigrants settle in Bosnia-Herzegovina to join family members already in the country.
• Studies : The country boasts renowned universities offering quality courses accessible to international students.
• Asylum seekers : Bosnia-Herzegovina is also a destination for people fleeing conflict or persecution in their home countries.

Most popular visas in Bosnia-Herzegovina

Foreign nationals wishing to visit Bosnia-Herzegovina are generally required to obtain a visa. Here are the main categories of visa issued by the Bosnian authorities:

• Short-stay visa (type C) : It allows stays in Bosnia-Herzegovina of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This visa is mainly intended for tourists, business visitors and participants in cultural, sporting or scientific events.
• Long-stay visa (type D) : This visa is issued for more than 90 days and can be granted to students, workers and family members joining a resident in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
• Residence permit : Foreigners wishing to settle permanently in Bosnia-Herzegovina must obtain a residence permit. This is generally granted to immigrants who have found stable employment and have sufficient resources to support themselves.

In most cases, visa applicants are required to provide documents justifying their identity, financial situation and the purpose of their stay in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

International tourism figures for Bosnia-Herzegovina

Bosnia-Herzegovina is an increasingly popular tourist destination, thanks in particular to its bucolic landscapes, rich historical heritage and delicious cuisine. International tourism figures reflect this trend:

• In 2019, the country welcomed nearly 1.8 million international tourists, an increase of 10 % compared to 2018 ;
• Tourism revenues account for around 10 % of Bosnia-Herzegovina's gross domestic product (GDP);
• The main countries of origin are Croatia, Serbia, Slovenia, Germany and Italy.

Major tourist attractions in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Among the sites and attractions not to be missed during a stay in Bosnia-Herzegovina are :

• Sarajevo: The Bosnian capital is famous for its historic center with its Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Yugoslav influences. Highlights include the Gazi Husrev-Beg Mosque, the Cathedral of the Heart of Jesus and the famous Latin Bridge.
• Mostar : This picturesque town is famous for its emblematic bridge, the Stari Most, which spans the Neretva River and symbolizes reconciliation between the region's different communities.
• Sutjeska National Park: This vast natural area is home to majestic mountains, unspoilt forests and a diverse fauna, including several endemic species.
• The Marian sanctuary of Međugorje: Every year, this pilgrimage site attracts thousands of faithful from all over the world to pray to the Virgin Mary.