Is Sarajevo safe?

Neither the UK nor the US government advises against travel to Sarajevo. Both name the same main risks: pickpockets in busy tourist areas, old landmines away from roads, and a threat of terrorism that cannot be ruled out.

So is Sarajevo safe? It is the question guests ask us most, and we would rather you hear it from the people whose job it is to judge it. Below is what the official advice says, and the small habits we suggest to everyone who stays with us.

What does the UK government say about Sarajevo?

The UK's travel advice for Bosnia and Herzegovina does not tell you to avoid the country. When we checked, its warnings page listed border delays and the new EU Entry/Exit System, but no advice against travel. It also says that "no travel can be guaranteed safe".

The safety page covers crime, taxis, landmines, protests and terrorism. We quote the key lines in each section below, so you can see the wording for yourself. Read the full page before you travel, because it changes.

Is Bosnia safe to visit, according to the US?

The US State Department rates Bosnia and Herzegovina at Level 2, "exercise increased caution", on its scale of 1 to 4. The current advisory was issued on 27 August 2026. It gives three reasons: crime, landmines and terrorism.

Both pages change, so read them again before you go.

Level 2 is the second-lowest level. Level 3 means "reconsider travel" and Level 4 means "do not travel". On crime, the US page says "most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing."

Is pickpocketing a problem in Sarajevo?

It is the risk both governments mention first. The UK advice says: "Beware of pickpockets and bag-snatchers on public transport and in the tourist and pedestrian areas of Sarajevo." That means the trams and the busy streets around Baščaršija, the Old Town.

A few habits help:

• Keep your phone and wallet in a front pocket or a zipped bag, above all on a full tram.
• Do not hang your bag on the back of a café chair.
• Carry your passport or photo ID, but keep it secure. The UK advice says you must be able to show ID if asked.
• Leave flashy jewellery and big wads of cash at home. The UK page says obvious wealth "can make you a target for opportunist thieves".

If you are driving, the UK page also warns of more thefts from cars around Sarajevo, "particularly on Mount Trebevic". Lock the car and keep bags out of sight.

Are taxis in Sarajevo safe?

The UK advice says official taxis in Sarajevo "are well-regulated and metered". The one warning is at the airport. Drivers at the taxi rank there "may try to charge a 'fixed price' fare, rather than use a meter, or charge for luggage". The advice is to agree the price before you set off, and never to use an unlicensed taxi.

From the airport, the simple answer is our shuttle. It takes up to 3 people, runs both ways at any hour, and you pay at reception. Send us your flight time on WhatsApp to book it. Our guide to getting from Sarajevo airport and the bus station to the Old Town has the other options, including the bus.

Are there still landmines around Sarajevo?

Yes, outside the city. The UK advice says: "Landmines and other unexploded weapons remain from the 1992 to 1995 war." Busy areas and main routes are largely clear, but the risk is still there in less populated and rural areas.

The rule is short. The UK says: "Do not step off roads and paved areas without an experienced guide." Take extra care near the edge of roads, open countryside, woods and orchards, and empty or ruined buildings. The US advice adds that danger areas are normally marked, but deaths have happened as recently as August 2025.

Going up Trebević or to one of the viewpoints above the city? Stay on the road or the marked path, and never walk past a red mine sign. Bosnia's Mine Action Centre has more on this.

Is Sarajevo safe at night?

Neither government gives separate night-time advice for Sarajevo, so the same habits apply after dark. Stick to lit, busy streets, keep an eye on your bag, and if you take a taxi, make sure it is a licensed one.

One thing to know about us: the walk back from the Old Town is uphill. Baščaršija is about 19 minutes down the hill, and the climb back takes longer. At night, the easy way is the tram to Skenderija, then the walk up through Veliki Park and Džidžikovac street. Bus 72 also stops at Studentski Dom, 1 minute from our door.

Reception is open from 8am to 11pm, but there is no curfew and someone is always around. Arriving later? Message us a day or two before with your bus, train or flight time, so someone is awake to let you in. Only guests with keys can get into the hostel, and every dorm has big lockers (bring your own padlock).

Is Sarajevo safe for solo female travellers?

The official advice has no separate warning for women in Sarajevo. The UK page points women to its general advice for women travelling abroad, which is worth a read before any solo trip.

The usual travel habits still matter. Tell someone your plans for the day, keep your phone charged, and think twice about walking alone down a quiet street late at night.

If you would feel more at ease sharing with other women, our Ruže room is a 6-bed female-only dorm. Linen and towels are included, and someone is at reception from 8am to 11pm if you need anything.

What about protests and terrorism?

Both are on the official lists of risks. The UK advice says: "Terrorist attacks in Bosnia and Herzegovina cannot be ruled out." The US advisory says the same in its own words.

On protests, the UK page says they "occur from time to time and can cause traffic disruption" and "are normally peaceful". The advice is to follow local news, steer clear of planned political demonstrations, and move away if a crowd gathers. The US page notes that recent unrest has not affected tourists, but that bystanders can be caught up.

Is Sarajevo safe for LGBT+ travellers?

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in Bosnia and Herzegovina, but the UK advice says LGBT+ communities "continue to report incidents of discrimination and even violence". It adds that public affection "is likely to be frowned upon and may receive unwelcome attention". The UK page links to its general advice for LGBT+ travellers. Read it before you go, and use your own judgement in public.

What number do I call in an emergency?

Call 122 for the police, 124 for an ambulance and 123 for the fire service. These numbers come from the US State Department page. The UK page also lists 112 for emergency services.

Staying with us? Save our number too: +387 61 263 419, on phone and WhatsApp.

Quick answers

• Is Sarajevo safe to visit? Neither the UK nor the US advises against it. The main risks are pickpockets and landmines outside the city.
• Is Bosnia safe? The US rates it Level 2 of 4, "exercise increased caution".
• Can I hike near Sarajevo? Yes, on roads and marked paths. Never step off them without an experienced guide.
• Do I need to carry my passport? The UK advice says to carry your passport or official photo ID at all times.
• Are drugs tolerated? No. The UK advice says to expect a long jail sentence and heavy fines, cannabis included.