Where is Bosnia and Herzegovina Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Bosnia and Herzegovina located on the map? Bosnia and Herzegovina is an independent nation located in Southern Europe. Check out the following images to see location of Bosnia and Herzegovina on maps.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Location in World Map

Here you can see where Bosnia and Herzegovina is.

Location Information of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Latitude and Longitude

Bosnia and Herzegovina is located in southeastern Europe, situated on the Balkan Peninsula. The country is bordered by Croatia to the north, west, and south, Serbia to the east, and Montenegro to the southeast. Bosnia and Herzegovina also has a small coastline along the Adriatic Sea, to the south. The geographical coordinates of Bosnia and Herzegovina are:

Latitude: 43.8486° N
Longitude: 18.3564° E

These coordinates place Bosnia and Herzegovina in a region with diverse landscapes, from the Dinaric Alps in the west to the fertile plains in the north and the Mediterranean influences along the coast. Its position has historically made it a crossroads of cultures, with influences from the Ottoman Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and the Slavic peoples.

Capital City and Major Cities

Capital City: Sarajevo
Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the central part of the country. Situated in a narrow valley surrounded by mountains, Sarajevo is a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Known as the “Jerusalem of Europe” due to its diverse religious history, Sarajevo is home to a blend of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and Yugoslav influences. Major landmarks include the Baščaršija (Old Bazaar), the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque, the Latin Bridge (where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated), and the Vrelo Bosne, the source of the River Bosna.
Major Cities:
1. Banja Luka – Located in the northwestern part of the country, Banja Luka is the administrative center of the Republika Srpska, one of the two entities that make up Bosnia and Herzegovina. It is the second-largest city in the country and is known for its vibrant cultural life, parks, and historical sites, such as the Banja Luka Fortress and the Ferhadija Mosque.
2. Mostar – Situated in the southern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is famous for its picturesque old town and the iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), which connects the two sides of the city. The city is a popular tourist destination and is known for its Mediterranean climate, Ottoman architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.
3. Tuzla – Located in the northeastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Tuzla is one of the country’s largest cities and is known for its salt deposits, which have been mined for centuries. The city has a rich industrial history and is also a center of education, with the University of Tuzla being one of the country’s major universities.
4. Zenica – Zenica is located in the central part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in the Zenica-Doboj Canton. Known for its steel industry, Zenica is an important industrial and economic hub. The city is also home to several cultural institutions, including theaters, museums, and galleries.
5. Sarajevo Canton – The area surrounding Sarajevo includes several towns and villages, each contributing to the cultural and economic life of the capital. Towns like Ilijaš and Hadžići are located just outside Sarajevo and offer more suburban living, while providing access to the natural beauty of the region’s mountains and rivers.

Time Zone

Bosnia and Herzegovina operates on Central European Time (CET), which is UTC +1 during standard time. During Daylight Saving Time (DST), the country follows Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC +2. The country aligns its time zone with other European nations, including neighboring countries such as Croatia, Serbia, and Slovenia. Bosnia and Herzegovina does not have any time zone differences between its regions, as it is a relatively small country with unified administrative and time structures.

Climate

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a diverse climate, influenced by both continental and Mediterranean weather patterns. The country experiences four distinct seasons, with temperature variations based on the altitude and proximity to the Adriatic Sea.

Continental Climate (Interior Regions): The interior regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina, including cities like Sarajevo, Zenica, and Banja Luka, experience a continental climate. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and sometimes hot. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures above 35°C (95°F). Winters can see temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F) to -5°C (23°F), with heavy snowfalls, particularly in mountainous areas.
Mediterranean Climate (Coastal Regions): The southernmost region of Bosnia and Herzegovina, near the town of Neum (which has access to the Adriatic Sea), experiences a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5°C (41°F) to 10°C (50°F). The coastal region is less affected by snow and has more moderate seasonal variations.
Mountain Climate (Higher Altitudes): The mountainous areas, particularly the Dinaric Alps in the west and the Tara range in the east, have a mountain climate. The high elevations bring cooler temperatures year-round, and winters are harsh, with significant snowfall and freezing temperatures. During the summer, temperatures are more moderate, ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), making these areas ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
Rainfall: Rainfall varies across Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the western and northern areas receiving more precipitation due to the mountains, while the southern region is drier. The wettest months are from November to March, with June to August being the driest months. The country is also prone to occasional flooding during heavy rains, particularly in lowland areas.

Economic Status

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a transitional economy that faces both challenges and opportunities. After the Bosnian War in the 1990s, the country began rebuilding its economy, though it still struggles with political and economic fragmentation between the two entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republika Srpska.

Agriculture: Agriculture is an important sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina, especially in rural areas. The country produces various crops, including wheat, corn, potatoes, and vegetables, and has a strong tradition of livestock farming, particularly cattle and sheep. The fertile plains along the Sava River are ideal for agriculture, and Bosnia is also known for its fruit production, including apples, cherries, and berries.
Manufacturing and Industry: The industrial sector in Bosnia and Herzegovina has been revitalized since the end of the war. The country has a diverse industrial base, including steel production, mining, and textiles. The ArcelorMittal steel plant in Zenica is one of the largest employers in the country, and mining remains a significant part of the economy, particularly in coal and bauxite extraction. The country also has a growing manufacturing sector, which produces machinery, automotive parts, and chemicals.
Services Sector: The services sector has grown rapidly in Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly in tourism, banking, telecommunications, and retail. Sarajevo, the capital, has a burgeoning financial sector, and the country has made strides in increasing foreign investment, particularly in banking and real estate. However, Bosnia and Herzegovina’s service industries are still underdeveloped compared to many European countries, and unemployment remains a persistent problem.
Tourism: Tourism is an increasingly important part of the economy, with Bosnia and Herzegovina offering a range of attractions, from natural beauty to historical landmarks. The capital city of Sarajevo has a rich history and is known for its cultural heritage, including its Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences. The country’s natural parks, such as Sutjeska National Park and Una National Park, and ski resorts like Jahorina and Bjelasnica, attract both domestic and international tourists. Ecotourism and adventure tourism are also growing sectors, with hiking, rafting, and nature excursions being popular activities.
Challenges: Bosnia and Herzegovina faces several economic challenges, including high unemployment rates, corruption, and political instability. The complex political structure, which divides the country into two entities with separate governments, has made decision-making difficult and hindered economic growth. Economic disparities between the regions also persist, and the country continues to rely heavily on international aid and remittances from Bosnian nationals working abroad.

Tourist Attractions

Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Some of the top tourist attractions in the country include:

Sarajevo: Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western influences. The Baščaršija (Old Bazaar) is a historic Ottoman market where visitors can explore traditional shops, cafes, and mosques. The Latin Bridge is where Archduke Franz Ferdinand was assassinated in 1914, leading to the start of World War I. Sarajevo is also home to the Vrelo Bosne, a stunning spring at the base of the mountains, and the Gazi Husrev-beg Mosque.
Mostar: Mostar is famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), which spans the Neretva River. The bridge was originally built by the Ottomans and was later destroyed during the Bosnian War, before being rebuilt. The city offers a rich mix of Ottoman and Mediterranean architecture, and visitors can explore the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque, the Mostar Bazaar, and the surrounding countryside.
Sutjeska National Park: Located in the southeastern part of the country, Sutjeska National Park is home to Tjentiste, a beautiful valley surrounded by rugged mountains. The park is a haven for nature lovers, offering hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic views. Perućica Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is located within the park and is one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe.
Jahorina and Bjelasnica: These mountain resorts, located near Sarajevo, are famous for their skiing opportunities. Both Jahorina and Bjelasnica were sites of the 1984 Winter Olympics and are now popular for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding. The surrounding mountains also offer excellent hiking opportunities in the summer months.
Tuzla: Tuzla is known for its salt lakes, which have therapeutic properties. The Pannonica Lakes in Tuzla are popular for relaxation and recreation, attracting visitors who seek wellness experiences. Tuzla is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with several theaters, museums, and festivals.
Travnik: A town in central Bosnia, Travnik is known for its well-preserved Ottoman architecture, including the Travnik Castle and Sulejmanija Mosque. The town is also famous for its traditional food, especially Travnicki cevapi, a local type of kebab.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens traveling to Bosnia and Herzegovina for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days do not require a visa. However, U.S. citizens must meet the following requirements:

Passport: U.S. citizens must have a valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity beyond their planned departure date from Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Proof of Sufficient Funds: U.S. travelers may need to show proof of sufficient funds to cover their stay in the country, including accommodations and transportation.
Return or Onward Ticket: U.S. citizens must provide evidence of a return or onward travel ticket when entering Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Schengen Area: Since Bosnia and Herzegovina is not part of the Schengen Area, U.S. citizens must ensure their stay does not exceed the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for tourism and business purposes.

For stays longer than 90 days, U.S. citizens will need to apply for a residence permit or specific visa depending on the purpose of their visit.

Distance to Major U.S. Cities

The approximate distances from Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, to major U.S. cities are as follows:

Distance to New York City: The distance from Sarajevo to New York City is approximately 4,500 miles (7,240 kilometers). Flights typically take about 9 to 10 hours, depending on the specific route and layovers.
Distance to Los Angeles: The distance from Sarajevo to Los Angeles is approximately 5,600 miles (9,000 kilometers). Flights generally take around 11 to 12 hours, with layovers in cities like Frankfurt, Vienna, or Istanbul.

Bosnia and Herzegovina Facts

Size	51,197 km²
Residents	3.3 million
Languages	Bosnian, Serbian and Croatian
Capital	Sarajevo
Longest river	Drina (346 km)
Highest mountain	Maglić (2,386 m)
Currency	Convertible Mark