Last checked: November 2026
Where to stay in Bosnia and Herzegovina depends on your trip. In Sarajevo, the Old Town (Baščaršija) and the central streets near it suit first-time visitors. In Mostar, staying near the Old Bridge is the most convenient, while guesthouses in villages suit quieter stays. Book early for summer and for winter ski weekends.
Which area should you choose?
| Area | Best for | Keep in mind |
|---|---|---|
| Sarajevo Old Town (Baščaršija) | Walking, food, markets, short stays | Lively in the evening and cobbled streets |
| Central Sarajevo | Museums, shopping, tram access | Busier traffic than the Old Town |
| Ilidža, near Sarajevo | Quieter stays, parks, airport access | Further from the main sights |
| Mostar Old Town | Old Bridge, restaurants, short stays | Crowded and hot in summer |
| Blagaj or Počitelj | Quiet village stays near Mostar | Limited dining and transport |
| Jajce or Travnik | Historic towns, central Bosnia | Smaller choice of rooms |
| Jahorina or Bjelašnica | Ski trips and mountain walking | Weather affects roads |
What types of stay are there?
- Hotels: available in Sarajevo and Mostar, from simple city hotels to larger international brands.
- Guesthouses (pansions): common across the country and often family-run, with good breakfast and local advice.
- Apartments: useful for families and longer stays, with kitchens.
- Hostels: available in Sarajevo and Mostar for budget travellers.
- Mountain lodges and ski hotels: found near Jahorina, Bjelašnica and other mountain areas.
- Rural stays: village homes and small eco-lodges in some regions. Confirm transport and meal options before you book.
Family and halal-friendly notes
Sarajevo and Mostar’s old towns have many halal restaurants, and mosques are easy to find. Many hotels serve breakfast that includes cold cuts, so ask what’s included if you avoid pork. In other regions, pork dishes are more common, so ask restaurants and guesthouses directly. Families will find apartments with kitchens helpful, since cobbled streets and stairs can be hard with strollers. Ask whether your accommodation has lifts, because many older buildings don’t.
Which base should you choose?
- Choose the Sarajevo Old Town if you want to walk to cafés, markets and museums and can accept evening noise.
- Choose central Sarajevo if you prefer quieter streets and easy tram access.
- Choose Mostar if you want a short stay near the Old Bridge, ideally for one or two nights.
- Choose a village guesthouse if you have a car or a transfer and want a quiet setting.
- Choose a mountain lodge if your trip centres on skiing or hiking.
Check how you will reach each base in our guide to getting around Bosnia and Herzegovina, since bus and train times affect how many nights each place needs.
What should you check before booking?
- The total price, including taxes and any tourist fees. Confirm what’s included on the booking page.
- Location and access, since Old Town streets can be steep or pedestrian-only.
- Parking, if you’re renting a car.
- Heating in winter and cooling in summer.
- Cancellation terms, especially for peak dates.
- Whether the property registers foreign guests with the authorities. Hotels normally do.
Booking tips
- Book early for July, August and winter ski weekends. The Sarajevo Film Festival in August also raises demand.
- Choose accommodation within walking distance of your main sights.
- Ask your host about airport or bus station transfers, especially for late arrivals.
- Read recent reviews for noise, heating and cleanliness.
- Use official tourism sites such as Visit Sarajevo to confirm local information.
Hotel Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
Common mistakes
- Staying far from the centre to save a little, then spending time and money on taxis.
- Booking a hotel without checking that your arrival time fits the check-in rules.
- Ignoring noise near nightlife streets in the Old Town.
- Not checking road conditions to mountain lodges in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to stay in Sarajevo or Mostar?
Sarajevo is bigger and has more to do, so it works well as a longer base. Mostar is small, so many visitors stay one or two nights. Most itineraries include both.
Are guesthouses a good choice?
Yes. They’re often friendly and good value, and hosts can help with tours and transport. Confirm what’s included and how to check in before you arrive.
Do hotels have English-speaking staff?
Most hotels in Sarajevo and Mostar do. In smaller guesthouses, you may rely on a few words of English or a translation app.
Is it safe to stay in the Old Towns?
They’re popular and busy, with normal city risks such as pickpocketing. Take usual precautions, and see our Bosnia and Herzegovina travel guide for the current safety notes.
